Five of the best cycling holidays in Europe from Spanish islands to Dalmatian coasts
WIMBLEDON and the World Cup may be over, but the Tour de France is still going – until tomorrow.
So if watching those Lycra-clad professionals pedal around Spain and France has inspired you to get your bum in that saddle, take a look at these two-wheeled getaways.
These five lesser-used trails showcase some of the most gorgeous scenery, away from the intimidating cycling crowds.
Better still, each trip has been designed with cyclists in mind and includes perks such as accommodation with cycling facilities, bike-friendly transfers and bike carriage.
MENORCA: This Balearic island is far from the well-ridden, high-speed routes on the Tour de France.
Instead you’ll be greeted by rugged coastal trails and ancient paths, including the 185km Camí de Cavalls.
Translated as The Path of Horses, it was originally used by knights to patrol the coast on horseback in the 14th century.
GO: Seven nights’ self-catering at the three-star Tramontana Park Aparthotel is from £829pp including flights from Manchester on August 31, plus 22kg baggage allowance, bike carriage and return sports transfers.
Approximately £24 in tourist tax is payable at the property.
See jet2holidays.com.
LAKE DISTRICT AND PENNINES: The north of the UK is home to some of the hilliest landscapes, which means this trip isn’t for the faint-hearted.
Those climbs will be rewarded, however, with some of the most breathtaking scenery.
You’ll also tackle Allenheads, which claims to be the highest village in England.
GO: The five-night self-guided coast to coast trip costs from £895pp including breakfasts and lunches, as well as accommodation.
E-bike hire available.
See skedaddle.com.
DALMATIAN COAST, CROATIA: If dramatic coastal scenery is what you’re after, look no further than the Dalmatian Coast, where craggy mountainscapes offer sweeping views of a sparkling ocean.
Staying in the Šibenik-Knin region puts you within reach of some versatile routes for all abilities.
The Krka National Park is known for its cascading waterfalls.
GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the three-star Amadria Park Apartments is from £629pp, based on a family of four sharing, including flights from London Stansted on August 18, plus 22kg baggage allowance, bike carriage and return sports transfers.
See jet2holidays.com.
LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE: Worried about those aching limbs?
This Loire Valley itinerary includes spa time, so you can rest and recuperate in between cycle stints.
These very easy and flat routes will take you through charming French villages and sweet vineyards whose vines are dripping in plump grapes right about now.
GO: The four-night Loire Spa Escape costs from £895pp including serviced touring bikes with a pannier bag and luggage transfers.
Flights cost extra. See cyclingforsofties.com.
COSTA DORADA, SPAIN: There’s a reason so many pros choose to train on Spain’s Costa Dorada.
Roads are smooth and wide, with very few potholes, plus there’s a variety of terrain that means you can pick your difficulty level.
Weave your way through the wine regions of Priorat and Montsant or challenge yourself with the La Mussara climb that takes you almost 1,000 metres above sea level.
GO: Seven nights’ half-board at three+ star Medplaya Hotel Calypso is from £769pp including flights from East Midlands airport on August 17, plus 22kg baggage allowance, bike carriage and return sports transfers.
Approximately £22 in tourist tax is payable at the property. See jet2holidays.com.