These are Europe's Best Cycling Holiday Destinations
These are the best cycling holiday destinations in Europe, new study reveals
Sun, sea and cycling - the ultimate combination. As we start to plan for the year ahead, many of us will be dreaming up our next holiday destination. But with the wave of endorphins, and physical and mental health benefits that cycling is scientifically proven to bring, holidays that get the blood pumping more than a bottle of suncream are becoming increasingly popular.
That's why British cycling experts Raleigh have commissioned a study to reveal the best cycling holiday destinations in Europe.
Ranking each country based on:
- Number of cycling routes & average distance
- Average sunshine hours
- Rainfall
- European Cyclists' Federation's (ECF) Cycling Barometer data, which measures countries' cycling-friendliness.
They also asked the travel experts at Destination2 to weigh in, adding more insight to each trip.
Here are the results:
Europe's Best Cycling Holiday Destinations
1. Germany
With over 95 million kilometres of mapped cycleways and 1,732,891 cycle routes (both table-topping stats in our list), Germany comes out as the top destination for cycling holidays. The study found it ranked highly for cycle routes, small amounts of average rainfall and is one of the most bike-friendy countries in Europe.
For cyclists visiting Germany, Destination2 recommended Mainz. "With 2,000 years of city history, Mainz is not only one of the oldest cities in Germany, but also a place where great history comes alive at every turn." The city is home to 4,425 cycling routes, meaning you can cruise through the views of its Roman heritage, soaking in the sights whilst on your bike.
2. Hungary
Our study ranked Hungary as the second-best European destination for a cycling holiday. Hungary ranks in the top ten for the most bike-friendly countries according to the ECF Cycling Barometer data, and with one of the lowest monthly rainfalls in our study, Hungary is a clear front-runner for those wanting to cycle in the sun.
3. Spain
A classic holiday favourite, Spain ranks in the top 5 for routes, sunshine and temperature - so it's a great winter warmer option. With an average of just under 5 hours of sun per day during the winter months, there'll be plenty of opportunities to top up your winter tan as you cycle. Spain is home to some of the world's most renowned and beautiful cycle routes, including the Camino de Santiago, Ruta de la Plata and the Way of El Cid.
The travel experts at Destination2 said: "Spain is where two continental cultures collide – strong central European and Latin influences fuse with hints of an African vibe, lending the land an identity and attitude all of its own. Making it an ideal destination for breathing in the beauty of the local landscapes on the back of a bike."
4. France
France boasts over 33 million kilometres of mapped ways and 460,692 different cycle routes, so you'll be spoilt for choice when planning your next holiday. Though only a short-haul journey away, France is also in the top 10 for hours of sun and the least amount of rainfall, making it a great all-rounder for cycling holidays.
5. Italy
Top two for both the amount of mapped cycleways and the number of routes, Italy offers a great experience for cycling holidays. With an average temperature of 20.4° and an average of 7 daily hours of sun, this short-haul holiday favourite delivers pleasant cycling weather and, of course, delicious food for your post-cycle meal!
