Cycling holidays are an increasingly popular way to travel and explore new destinations. They can be a great way to see a location from a new perspective and to get a more authentic feel for the place you’re visiting, away from the beaten track. Plus, for people who want to stay active during their holiday, all that cycling is fantastic for both your physical and mental health!
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next cycling holiday, Europe has many spectacular routes to offer keen adventurers.
Puglia, Italy
The Southern Italian region of Puglia offers many cycling routes set amongst idyllic countryside and dramatic coastlines. A cycling holiday to Puglia allows you to soak up the laid-back lifestyle favoured by the Italians as you journey through pretty villages, past vineyards and olive groves, taking in the sights, sounds and smells of this beautiful region.
The adventure doesn’t end when you get out of the saddle either, as you can explore the local towns, learn about the region’s rich heritage and culture, and sample the delectable cuisine.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
The Dalmatian Coast in Croatia boasts the clearest waters in Europe and is fast becoming one of the most popular holiday destinations. For cyclists, its appeal lies in its long islands, separated only by short ferry trips that offer a natural break between excursions.
There’s plenty to see and do on foot too, including medieval towns and seaside villages to explore and the many pebble or shingle beaches with their crystalline waters that are perfect for a quick dip to cool off after a tough ride.
The Baltics
Cycling in the Baltics will take you through the countries of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia. Along the way, you can admire historic towns and cities with fairytale-esque architecture, through the region’s national parks and along its breathtaking coastline.
Cyclists won’t want to miss a trip along the Curonian Split, a sand dune peninsula backed by pine forests that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Saulkrasti, Latvia, you can even visit the Bicycle Museum, which boasts the largest collection of bicycle insignia in Eastern Europe.
Girona, Spain
Girona in Spain is well-known amongst professional cyclists and indeed, many of them live there!
This Spanish city is the perfect destination for a cycling holiday thanks to its easily accessible and versatile cycle routes that offer a good mix of terrains and quiet roads. Cyclists visit all year round, though be aware that you’ll find it much busier (and hotter) during the summer months! Popular routes in Girona include Rocacorba, for its mesmerising views of the Pyrénées and the twisty, forest trail of Els Angels.
In the Old Town of Girona, you’ll find a cycling hub with specialist shops, as well as bars and cafés catering specifically to cyclists.
