Europeans love their bikes, and why not? Cycling is not only eco-friendly, but it’s also a great source of exercise. For all you experienced cyclists out there, or even the budding ones, why not take a trip to some of the most cycle-friendly cities on the continent right now? Hop on your cube cycles bike and bounce from city to city this summer – just think of the money you’ll save on train tickets!
Dusseldorf, Germany
The first stop on this year’s Tour De France, the professional cyclists will take a tour of the city before setting off to Liege – why don’t you do something similar? You could do a lot worse than explore a city bustling with interesting culture, glorious architecture, flavoursome culinary delights, and the beer of course. If that isn’t enough to convince you, it also has the longest river in Europe: the River Rhine.
La Rioja, Spain
Who said that cycling always has to be hard work? La Rioja has many subdued and lovely routes across its many, many vineyards. After you’re done with your leisurely travels through this wonderful location you can unwind with some local tapas and wine – and after spending all day riding you’ll have definitely worked up quite the appetite!
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Probably the most cycle-friendly in Europe – the cyclist reigns supreme in this city. Any pedestrian (otherwise known as a tourist) caught wandering in the cycle lanes will be promptly warned with a symphony of passive aggressive bike bells letting them know that space isn’t for them. Take in the views of the Amstel, then go and enjoy a waffle and a coffee in many of the quaint café’s dotted around the Dutch capital.
Yorkshire, England
Closer to home, but you could do a lot worse than taking a trip with your bicycle to God’s Own county. The roads are generally quiet and the views will simply take your breath away. This setting can accommodate to any preference of cyclist: the one’s seeking thrilling challenges need only ride higher up the dales, where weather conditions are more on the extreme side. Those looking for something a bit more subdued can stay at a low altitude and enjoy a nice easy ride.
Loire Valley, France
Loire is famous for three things: its wine, cheese and cycling routes. This spot should be on any cyclist’s bucket list as you need to see it with your own eyes to believe it. This is also suitable for riders of any capability as the easy roads won’t push you too hard so you can relax as you cruise along.
Tuscany, Italy
Everywhere you look is like a postcard – we’re not joking. Tuscany has to be one of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy; and for a country boasting some of the finest vistas in all of Europe this is some claim. From the rolling plains to the ambient vineyards, it’ll be hard for you to keep your eyes on the road when there’s so much beauty passing around you. The food and wine aren’t too bad either.
Tenerife, Spain
If you’re feeling particularly brave, you can climb the same mountain that many Olympic cyclists use to train. Mount Teide boasts the longest continuous road climb in Europe, so it’s a punishing (but ultimately rewarding) feat of endurance. Bradley Wiggins has used this location as a base for his training in preparations for the Tour De France – well, if it’s good enough for Bradley… it’s good enough for us!
Passau, Germany
Finally, if you want to see some beautiful sights you could start in Passau, follow the Danube river and eventually end in the Vienna. This route is known as the Donauradweg and is well known for its ease and natural beauty. While the distance is quite long, there are plenty of opportunities to stop along the way and take in the cultures of either Germany’s or Austria’s culture depending on how you feel.
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