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Embracing a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge, but if you’re going to keep it up there’s got to be more to it than an expensive gym membership and mindlessly running on a treadmill. So what if you could travel yourself fit? Well, you can!
Cycling holidays provide a unique way of sightseeing in some beautiful locations, and they keep your mind and body in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely roam through sightworthy scenery or yearn for more of an uphill encounter, we have a cycling holiday for every ability.
So, what are you waiting for? Get on your bike and explore some of Europe’s most exciting destinations on two wheels. Here are our top 10 bestselling biking getaways from 2017…
10) Cycling in Tuscany
Cycling through Tuscany’s countryside
Cycle Siena & Chianti
In at number ten, we begin our countdown with cycling in Tuscany. From Siena, one of Italy’s best-preserved medieval towns, to Chianti, home of the regions finest wine, this ride is the ideal intro to Tuscany.
A region idealised by many, and rightly so, with sprawling vineyards and olive groves, Tuscany’s landscape is recognisable and truly romantic. Steeped in history, hill-top towns and winding roads, it’s best explored by bike.
Meander your way through Tuscany on this relaxed itinerary which encourages you to embrace the laid back Italian lifestyle. Swap the handlebars for a glass of wine in hand. No need to race through or culture cram, enjoy the sights, food and history, at your own pace, one pedal at a time.
Find out more: Tuscany Cycle Siena & Chianti
9) Cycling in Sicily
Cycling along Sicily’s coastThe biggest island in the Mediterranean sea, stunning Sicily’s rich cultural and culinary heritage makes this island a sublime visit. From rustic home cooking to exploring the antiquated past of the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish, Sicily has so much to offer the explorer on two wheels.
Cruising through the lower valleys of the Iblean Mountains allows you to whizz past swaying farmlands, deep gorges and enchanting coastal scenery.
Find out more: Cycling in Sicily
8) Cycling in Portugal
View over LisbonPorto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride
Picturesque Portugal is a top contender for a European bike ride. The hilly capital Lisbon topped Lonely Planet’s ‘must-see’ list for travellers in 2017.
We begin in pleasing Porto – cycling here follows a flat and gentle route and the itinerary is flexible to allow you to scout out Portugal’s bright beaches and take your pick of its prime eateries.
The Atlantic Coast of Portugal will take you through a range of landscapes, from pleasing pine forests to sprawling sand dunes in Sao Jacinto Natural Reserve. The fort village of Obidos is also a postcard perfect place to spend a night.
Find out more: Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride
7) Cycling in Sardinia
Sardinian harbourOur lucky number 7 is Cycling in Sardinia. With a shimmering sea that illuminates towering limestone ridges, Sardinia’s natural beauty is clear to see. Crowds of bubble-gum pink flamingos cover the Sinis wetlands, cycle from here on to the verdant Costa Verde (Green Coast) which is budding with Mediterranean vegetation.
When you cycle in Sardinia you spend a wonderful week pedalling past emerald waters, ancient ruins and smooth peanut butter beaches. After some more challenging gradients, reward yourself with uplifting scenic sights and a plate stacked with Sardinian delights.
Find out more: Cycling in Sardinia
6) Cycling in Cilento and the Amalfi coast
Amalfi CoastCombine your passion for cycling with a gastronomically indulgent itinerary! Cycling in Italy allows you to completely explore both unspoilt Cilento and the lively and much-loved Amalfi coast.
The Amalfi Coast provides unrivalled scenic routes and rich delicious local cuisine. Cilento is less well known but offers a quainter impression of Italy, with peaceful traditional fishing villages and a glimpse into a more leisurely pace of life.
With all that peddling you’re bound to work up an appetite, you won’t be disappointed by the celebrated culinary finesse and fine food that these regions have to offer.
Find out more: Cycle Cilento and the Amalfi coast
5) Cycling Puglia and Matera
Halfway through the countdown and Cycling Puglia and Matera comes in at number 5. Get behind the handlebars and weave your way through the heel of Italy. Cycling in Italy’s deep south immerses you in the fascinating regions of Puglia and Basilicata.
With Salento’s sublime seafood and wonderous wine, this destination really is foodie heaven. Sleeping under the charming dry stone roof of a ‘Trulli’ house in Alberobello makes this trip a truly memorable experience.
Ostuni, known as the ‘white city’, is perched on a hilltop and a savoured spot to watch a Mediterranean sunset. Breeze through idyllic countryside towards Gallipoli and bask in the laidback Italian lifestyle. When you cycle through the region you can embrace the beauty of the countryside and make pitstops at some delicious cafes and restaurants along the way.
Taking you there: Cycling Puglia and Matera
4) Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice Ride
Cycling along the Dolomites
The Dolomites form part of the limestone Alps in northeastern Italy. Drink in the dramatic jagged mountain backdrop and cruise along smooth roads and tracks all the way to the Adige River. Discover spectacular scenery without the long climbs.
The famous Lake Garda is a serene retreat offering a welcome break with breathtaking views. Relax on a pleasant boat ride where you can soak up these delightful vistas before continuing your jaunt through fair Verona and Padova.
Finally, you’ll arrive in the city with no roads, Venice. Step aboard a gorgeous gondola to uncover this romantic marble domed city’s intriguing past.
Find out more: Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice Ride
3) Cycling in Albania
Mountains of AlbaniaTaking bronze in our countdown, open your eyes to amazing Albania. It wasn’t until 1991 when the People’s Socialist Republic of Albania collapsed that foreigners could enjoy this wonderfully scenic location.
Beginning on the border of Macedonia, cycling in Albania uncovers soaring snow-capped mountains, unbelievable beaches and charming rural villages. Go off the beaten track and the beauty of Albania will surprise you.
If you’re looking for something more than a leisurely bike ride, Albania provides a challenging workout in a captivating setting. The Ancient Greek and Roman ruins of Butrint are a UNESCO heritage wonder and Llogara National Park is one of Albania’s major draws.
Taking you there: Cycling in Albania
2) Cycle the Baltics
View of St Olaf’s churchStealing second place is exploring the Baltics by bike. Go on a two-wheeled journey of discovery as you cross Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The Baltic coastline gives life to lush national parks, home to wild boar and moose, as well as spectacular alpine forests which earn this region its nickname of ‘Estonian Switzerland’.
Admire the architectural highlights as you cycle through three fascinating countries. Marvel at the wonder of Jurmala’s expressive crafted wood buildings or wander the streets of turreted Tallinn. The Town Hall Square is celebrated for its classic merchant houses. Offering a route that takes in a wealth of natural beauty and explores beautiful Baltic towns, Cycle the Baltics is our much-loved number two.
Taking you there: Cycle the Baltics
1) Cycling in Croatia
Cycling along the Dalmation Coast
Cycling the Dalmatian Coast
And finally, the bestselling and number one cycling trip is… Cycling the Dalmatian Coast. The stunning sapphire waters and terracotta topped buildings of the Dalmatian Coast are the perfect backdrop for a cycling holiday.
From picturesque seaside villages to lavish port towns, Croatia is an idyllic location to get fit and soak up some much-needed rays. Peaceful coastal cycling routes combined with an itinerary that allows you to revel in the fascinating history of Croatia’s oldest towns including Split and UNESCO world heritage site Dubrovnik, it’s not hard to see why this is your number one!
Find out more: Cycling the Dalmatian Coast
Explore Europe by bike with our cycling tours below.
