I am going to circle back to the original post on this thread. Like Morbihan in 2015, I just turned 49, and I want some sort of epic bike adventure for my 50th, next summer. I have convinced SWMBO that an epic bike adventure will be cheaper and healthier than a sports car. Since PBP 2015 I have done minimal riding, and I want to put something on the calendar now so that I have motivation get my saggy arse back on the bike and get myself back into shape. I would love a multi-day adventure, not necessarily a 1200k randonnee, but something challenging. I don't mind sleeping in the occasional bus shelter, but I don't want to ride a fully loaded touring bike. Heavy bikes just aren't that much fun.
I would love to hear any suggestions that you kind folks have to offer. Randonnees, raids, tours, self-imposed challenges--anything that sounds interesting and challenging.