About Us

A Little About Us 

We have spent over 20 years ingratiated into the corporate treadmill at a senior level and we weren’t enjoying the stress and long hours our roles demanded of us. The pressure continued to increase to the point where it was affecting our health and well-being. We decided it was time to make a change… a big, huge whopping lifestyle change.  We would head out to Costa Blanca several times a year to cycle the area and we absolutely loved it! 

About 6 years ago; and after a week of unwinding, riding and relaxation we sat looking at the beautiful surrounding we found ourselves in and we knew there and then this is what we wanted to do; to share this exhilarating experience with like-minded people who want to challenge themselves on the bike whilst relaxing and unwinding in style. That day we discovered freedom and what it meant to us, and the rest is history, as we Co-founded Cycle Retreats! Since that day Cycle Retreats has grown into a family and now covers so many wonderful areas that are perfect for cycling.
Mark Lancaster
 
I have been cycling for over 30 years and truly love the sport, over the past 15 years I have also competed in many triathlons ranging from the smaller sprint distances to Ironman distances, but my true love is and always will be the bike. When I’m not on the bike I love nothing more than to hit the slopes snowboarding with my Zoe where I play catch up pretty much all day. I’m sure she was born with a board on her feet! I have also assisted in charity European bike tours as a ride leader and mechanic as well as leading club rides in the UK; so you are in safe hands. I also have a knack of knowing where to find the great cafes and bars for a cheeky glass of vino to finish off the ride.
Zoe Lancaster 

I am also a very keen cyclist and often join Mark and the riders to spin the legs. I too have completed several triathlons, but also love Pilates and Snowboarding. My other passion is hospitality and it has been said that I throw one mean party! Hospitality really is my calling… If it’s paleo, gluten-free, juice only or wheat free; we can accommodate you. At Cycle Retreats it really is all about you!

Lewis Cooper (Operations Manager) 


A keen cyclist for almost ten years, this wonderful sport has taken me all over the UK & Europe, from sportives, and charity rides to Iromman triathlons and everything in between. I particularly love bike packing, and have completed both LEJOG & the NC500 in recent years. I head up the UK operations side of Cycle Retreats, organising our UK events and also coaching weekly club sessions. However, as a qualified British Cycling ride leader (and avid sun lover!), you'll find me out guiding in Spain as often as I can get away with too!

Diana Baidal Morell (Head of Catering)


Not everything is about the bike, and I feel the magic happens to fuel you for the following day in the kitchen! I also feel food is something we should share, and I love nothing more than watching bowls of locally grown food being passed around the Cycle Retreats table while the chatter about the day fills the air. I have been working with Zoe and the all-important catering side of Cycle Retreats for many years now and feel blessed to work in such a positive environment. I like to ride the bike (bici in Spanish) myself also, but my love is the water and rowing, something you may not know is I am a keen photograph and artist and have exhibitions of my work. Like you, I enjoy travel and this means I often create dishes from all over the world that I pick up on my travels. Let me know what you like so I can cook you up a storm.

Karen Roberts (Office Administrator) 


Back in the UK and behind the scenes, I help keep Cycle Retreats working like a well-oiled cog!  I absolutely love working and being part of this wonderful team that makes Cycle Retreats a fabulous place to be. I have worked as a PA in the hotel industry for longer than I care to remember, and at Cycle Retreats I use my skills and knowledge to make sure that we are ready and organised when our guests arrive at the Retreat.  I keep the office running smoothly whilst Mark, Zoe and the rest the team in Europe make sure our guests are looked after and have an amazing holiday both in and out of the saddle.   

Ian Cockram - (Head Guide, Team France)


I am a really keen cyclist and love the freedom and adventure that it brings! I take every possible opportunity to get out on my bike!  When at home, I enjoy riding with my club where I am a member of the Ride Leader Team. In the summer, Caroline and I love taking our campervan on holiday and often travelling to France, Italy or Spain. I really enjoy mapping out new rides and discover new places and new routes to explore.  I am also a keen runner and have volunteered for many years as a Parkrun Event Director and Ambassador.  Along with Caroline, we will be hosting your French adventures and have some new and exciting routes planned for you.  Whether it is taking on the epic French Alps Tour, or my favourite place, Provence, we can guarantee it will be just amazing.  Bordering on geeky, I love to plan routes and am often found in the bike shed either cleaning our steeds or sat reviewing the next adventure!

Caroline Cockram (Host Manager - Team France)


Having recently retired from my career in the NHS as a Health Visitor and am now looking to enjoying spending more time on my hobbies and exploring new adventures.  I am definitely at my happiest when I am on my bike, particularly when I am away with Ian on one of our many European adventure.  The scenery is just stunning and the roads make for perfect cycling.  I do enjoy walking and a little running, and if I find time, I love to knit!  I really enjoy meeting new people and supporting others to achieve their goals and dreams and love to be surrounded by like-minded people who enjoy a bit of an adventure.  Along with Ian, I will be hosting you at the French Retreats and Tours,  please feel free to let me know how we can make your stay a perfect one!  One of my hidden talents is to find the best café or bar for that post ride refreshment!


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