Above: Verbier. Picture courtesy Epic Road Rides
Mountains: Thinking of the French Alps? Try Verbier, Switzerland
Every July, France is abuzz with Tour de France mania. As the peloton sweeps its way through a plethora of charming towns and regions, the routes in each stage become packed with thousands of locals and cycling enthusiasts.
Even the most remote mountain stages can’t escape these spectators. So, where can you bag equally challenging rides without the big crowds?
Hopping over the border into Switzerland is a good bet. This destination is home to many peaceful mountain passes that will really put your road cycling skills to the test.
Cyclists based in Verbier can take their pick of inspiring routes, from the famous Croix de Coeur climb to dramatic gorges and high-altitude dams.
Above: Amersfoort. Picture courtesy Epic Road Rides
City breaks: Thinking of Amsterdam? Try Amersfoort
A city break is a great introduction to cycling abroad.
Europe’s cycling capital, Amsterdam, may feel like a great option for a city break on two wheels but millions of tourists descend upon this popular destination every year.
Combine this with locals for whom cycling is their preferred way to get to work and riding a bike here can feel quite overwhelming, especially during rush hour.
Instead, why not sample one of The Netherlands’ lesser-visited cities? Places like Utrecht and Amersfoort are well connected to Amsterdam by both cycle paths and regular trains.
These cities are home to many of the same characteristics that make Amsterdam so beloved. Highlights include winding canals, arched bridges, tall canal houses with photogenic, gabled facades and extensive bike infrastructure
Amersfoort’s Koppelpoort medieval gate is particularly impressive to behold. Just outside of Amersfoort there is also a vast network of fantastically fun woodland trails that are perfect for cyclists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a little while.
Family-friendly trails: Thinking of the Camel Trail, UK? Try the Tarka Trail
For cyclists seeking a bike ride in some of the UKs most idyllic landscapes, Cornwall’s ever-popular Camel Trail may be high on your list.
However, having sampled both the Camel Trail and neighbouring Tarka Trail in Devon during the same week of school summer holidays, the latter route has plenty to shout about.
Just like the Camel Trail, the Tarka Trail cycle route is on a traffic-free, well signposted cycle path. In contrast to the buzzing Camel Trail, the Tarka Trail feels far less busy.
Highlights include the estuary landscapes of the River Taw and River Torridge, peaceful woodland and a backdrop of green rolling hills. As a bonus, you’ll also get a fascinating insight into the route’s rich railway heritage.
Above: The Tarka Trail. Picture courtesy Epic Road Rides
Foodies who love to cycle: Thinking of France? Try Romania
Did you know Romania is home to the Dealu Mare wine region? It sits at roughly the same latitude and altitude as the famous wine regions of Bordeaux and Tuscany.
This premier wine region in Romania produces high quality red grapes and is a must visit for wine and foodie lovers.
Visiting vineyards and wine tasting are all possible as part of an organised bike ride in the region. The Dealu Mare region is also only about an hour’s drive from the capital Bucharest.
The Dobrogea in the Danube River Delta is another important wine region in Romania. This can be experienced on the popular EuroVelo 6, a fantastic option for cycle tourers looking for a lengthy place to place adventure in Europe.
Cycling events: Thinking of L’Eroica? Try Nature is bike, Angers
Cycling events bring likeminded people together for a unique and memorable celebration on two wheels.
Some better-known events tend to sell out quickly and have limited availability, such as the legendary L’Eroica in Chianti, Tuscany.
For those who want to sample a lesser-known cycling event, Nature is Bike is worth a look. This event is billed as a celebration of gravel cycling and is held annually in June in the historic French city of Angers.
Located in the heart of the legendary Loire Valley, the event features several gravel routes in the area. There is also the chance to take part in an overnight bikepacking ride.
A fun festival village with entertainment, food and workshops runs throughout the weekend.
