The roads less travelled: Europe’s cycling treasures
Saddle up for a European adventure like no other! Seeing the world on two wheels can be a fantastic experience and there are hundreds of scenic cycle routes to enjoy just across the channel, no matter your skill level.
Cycling on holiday allows you to set your own pace and stop whenever you please, giving you a more profound experience. Just remember to stay hydrated and make sure you follow local road rules.
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are 5 of the best cycling trips to enjoy in Europe.
Tour the Danube from Passau to Vienna
While the Danube Cycle Path runs from Germany to Romania, why not start with this beautiful stretch between Passau, Germany, and Vienna, Austria? The route is very flat, well-maintained, and traffic-free on this section. This makes it perfect for cyclists who like to go at their own pace and take it easy.
Follow the course of Europe’s second-largest river as it winds past forested hills, picturesque towns and breathtaking cities. Extend your trip with a few days in Vienna, exploring the magnificent museums.
Get back to nature in Extremadura, Spain
You can see a new side of Spain from your saddle, and spot some of the country’s unique wildlife simultaneously. Taking a cycle tour of Extremadura, in western Spain, will open your eyes to just how much there is to the UK’s most popular country to visit.
The historic buildings and monuments offer a fantastic backdrop to your trip. The region is known for its Spanish Ibex, wild bulls and Iberico pigs. Monfrague National Park is famed for its many birds of prey, including eagles and vultures.
Enjoy the sheer variety of Slovenia
You can’t go wrong with a cycle tour in Slovenia for a trip that has it all. You can pedal from the edges of the Julian Alps to the coastal city of Piran, with its Venetian harbour. On the way, you’ll experience stunning views of sparkling lakes and waterfalls, jagged mountain peaks and sunny beaches.
Slovenia is perfect if you want to enjoy a biking holiday where every day feels different.
Visit Croatia’s magical Dalmatian coast
If you prefer cycling by the sea, then head to Croatia‘s Dalmatian coast. Pedal along beautiful coastal paths and past plenty of enchanting islands. Most tours start and end in the UNESCO world heritage sites of Dubrovnik and Split, which are worth exploring on foot too.
The area is also known for its vineyards, and Korcula, the birthplace of famous traveller Marco Polo.
Explore the untouched Italian countryside in Umbria
Alternatively, you can explore the beautiful Italian landscape on a shorter trip to Umbria, Italy’s green heart. Ride through the hilltop villages as you sample delicious local food and drink. The pink marble buildings of Assisi are stunning, and it’s easy to see why so many people take a pilgrimage to the town.
The region is famous for its foraged truffles, so be sure to give one a try.
No matter where your cycling trips take you, ensure you have comprehensive cycling travel insurance for your holiday.