Spring has sprung here at our Bike Spain Tours office in Madrid, Spain. We love this time of year. We get to take a few layers off and the days are longer so we’re able to get in more kilometers.
It’s also the best time to hit the road on a cycling holiday. Making the decision on where to go can always be a tough decision. That’s why we’ve created a list of our top destinations for biking in Europe.
- Dolomites, Italy – The Dolomites are a mountain range in northern Italy. Famous for the steep climbs, many of which have been featured in the mountain stages of the Giro d’Italia races. Like Falzarego, Valparola, Sella, Campolongo and Passo Pordoi.The Dolomites mountain range provides cyclists with plenty of steep ascents and descents on rural roads without traffic. What’s more is the stunning scenery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t like anywhere else you’ve ever cycled before. The efforts of the climbs are rewarded with beautiful panoramic views.
- The Danube – The Danube River has a well-developed riverside cycle path that is easy, flat, and safe for all levels. It’s one of the best options for a family-friendly cycling holiday. The bike path runs 2,850km from Germany to the Black Sea. Passing through 10 countries like Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. It is one of the most well-known and well-traveled bike routes in Europe. The most popular stretch of the path is the 306 km portion between the German village of Passau and Vienna, Austria. There is plenty of space and the only traffic you have to worry about is the other cyclists.
- Girona, Spain – Girona is home to many pro cyclists and it’s easy to see why. It provides a great base for year-round riding. Girona is gaining popularity for riders both on and off the bike. The history, Catalan culture, and cobbled streets in the old town are an attraction on their own. Plus, it only takes about 10 minutes to leave the city behind and find smooth, wide, quiet back roads seemingly made just for cyclists. You can find climbs or flat rides with the varied terrain in the area. You can even take a ride toward the Mediterranean and find yourself on the Costa Brava.
- Tuscany, Italy – Known for its wine, food, and gorgeous landscapes, Tuscany is an ideal destination to combine both wine tasting and cycling. The hilly terrain offers the seasoned cyclists new challenges, while the picturesque towns and villages offer the less experienced rider new places to explore. Either way, the endless views of rolling vineyards provides a perfect cycling adventure. Tuscany is also home to the classic bike race – Strade Bianche – famous for its uneven road surfaces.
- French Alps – The Tour de France has put the infamous mountain range of the Alps in the limelight for decades. Cycling enthusiasts are attracted every year to take on the challenge of riding the same climbs as the pros. Who wouldn’t want to try taking on Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier, Col de la Madeleine or Alpe d’Huez. This is a road cyclists paradise and there are no shortage of unbelievable rides. The French Alps cover a wide area and the terrain makes it difficult to get around. So make sure to decide where you want to stay, based on what climbs you want to hit. We recommend bases in Annecy, Bourg d’Oisans, Morzine, or Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne.
- Dalmatian Coast, Croatia – The Dalmatian coast is one of Europe’s most popular vacation spots. Each island in Dalmatia has its own character. You can ride around and discover Greek, Roman and Venetian architecture. The clear blue waters also provide spectacular views on every turn you ride. In Croatia, it’s all about pedaling for pleasure, as you cycle through the vineyards of the Peljesac peninsula or through the national park of Mljet Island. The picture-perfect beaches and history makes for an attractive cycling holiday.
Are you thinking of biking in Europe and need help deciding on the destination? Contact us. We’ll help you plan the perfect cycling holiday.
