Kernow & SW 600 28th May 2011, starting at 6:00am [PBP qualifier]
PDF routesheet here (routesheet not yet updated for 2011)
Detailed Google map of the route
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A scenic tour of the Southwest peninsula with a ferry crossing thrown in. It is an event for experienced randonneurs who know how to pace themselves. There are sleeping facilities at about 365k.
The KSW600 starts at Whipton in Exeter and tours the Southwest peninsular. The first leg heads almost due west on easy roads, through Hatherleigh and Holsworthy, across the Tamar, to Bude and a first sight of the sea. It's a fast route and many arrive even before the official opening of the control. It's as well to stop for food and drink before continuing.
The next section runs due South to Looe and a second sea view. The route goes via Launceston, then skirts Bodmin Moor to Liskeard, and takes the valley lanes to East Looe. This is a lumpy section and most riders will lose some of the time they had in hand at Bude. The secret is not to panic, not to ride too hard, because it gets easier later on. At Looe Kelly's fish restaurant provide food and a control.
There are a couple of sharp hills out of Looe, then fine views over the English Channel and a steep descent to Polruan harbour. The passenger ferry departs every 15 minutes or so and lands at one of two places on the Fowey side of the estuary. Follow the one-way system and signs for St Austell. once through there the route follows the A380, but using sections of the old road where possible, to Truro, and then takes lanes to Four Lanes and the B road through Praze-an-Beeble, and Leedstown. There should be views of both coasts along this road. Crossing the A30 the route goes through Marazion and past St Michael's Mount to Penzance and a warm welcome at Don's place. He and his family will feed and water riders ready for the next stage. Don is a KSW veteran and can offer advice on the remainder of the ride. 
Back to the North coast for the next section. Leaving Penzance there are lanes to Crowlas and the A30, which takes you to Hayle. The route through Camborne is not the prettiest, but it's relatively easy and there's still a long way to go. Once through the town the old dual-carriageway is fairly quiet. At Scorrier the route crosses the new road to Blackwater. The 24hr services here at 283k are the last easy refreshment stop for all but the fastest riders for 90k. There's an information control at Newquay. A fast rider might catch the Texaco garage which closes at 10pm, otherwise it's straight on to Bude.
The night route joins the A39 to continue all the way to Bude. There there will be food, drink, and sleeping facilities.
Most riders start after first light to tackle the longest leg, across to Taunton Deane. The route is mostly B roads and lanes. Tiverton is a possible refreshment stop at 450k.
After the Services at Taunton Deane there is a slightly tortuous route south of Taunton, via Hatch Beauchamp and across the South Somerset Levels. East Coker garage on the outskirts of Yeovil is the next control, with basic food and drink.
Now comes the homeward stretch. Firstly a bash along the A30 to Crewkerne, then B roads through Marshwood Vale towards the South coast and Seaton, the final control. There's no official control place here, but there are several fish and chip shops and other stores. The rider should obtain a receipt or similar proof of passage.>
The final 30 odd kms go through the picturesque village of Branscombe to the main road above Sidmouth and through Newton Poppleford before turning off towards Aylesbeare, past Exeter Airport, and lanes back to Whipton and a hero's welcome.
