Embrace the freedom and mental relaxation of exploring the great outdoors on two wheels without extra effort on these easy and spectacular European cycling trails.
The Salzkammergut
Austria’s lake district – known locally as the Salzkammergut – might be set in the shadow of the Alps, but flat paths encircle and connect the lakes so cycling here is easy. Sandwiched between snow-capped mountains and shimmering emerald water, your views are endlessly enchanting, and in the evenings you can shelter at welcoming inns in chocolate-box traditional villages.
Top tip: tack on a visit to nearby Salzburg, an artistic city with beautiful buildings and gardens and a rich musical heritage.
The Dolomites
Towering at over 3,000 meters above sea level, you might think cycling these mountains would be challenging. While it can be, you can find easy bike tours that start up a height and run downhill through the Dolomites along smooth, safe tracks. These striking peaks are traversed by rushing rivers spilling into glacial lakes, and in spring and summer are lush green with forests and wildflower meadows.
Don’t miss: seeing the Lago di Carezza (‘the rainbow lake’), the crowning jewel of Italy’s South Tyrol.
The Loire Valley
See the captivating castles and countryside of the Loire Valley which dominates central France. The entire region is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its wealth of historic châteaux set on sprawling estates and sensational natural landscapes surrounding the river. It’s counted among the best wine regions in France, and you can pedal through the vineyards at your leisure and enjoy private wine tastings paired with exquisite gourmet cuisine.
Must try: the sticky and sweet tarte Tatin, a famous dessert which originated in Sologne, available in all the region’s market towns.
The Cotswolds
Drive just a few hours northwest of London, England’s lively capital, and you’ll arrive in The Cotswolds which feel a world away from city life. Great swathes of farmland dominate the gently rolling landscape, including fields devoted to growing the area’s iconic lavender, interspersed with patches of pretty woodland. This region is one of England’s Areas of Outstanding National Beauty with preserved villages and uninterrupted countryside views.
Take time to: relax at the traditional pubs serving hearty English fare in an uplifting atmosphere.
The Netherlands
No list of Europe cycling destinations is complete without The Netherlands where riding a bike is a way of life. With the highest point 332 meters above sea level, there’s no danger of challenging uphill climbs here, and the vast network of cycle paths allows you to pedal at your own pace in peace. Discover the many world-class sites of the country’s canal-carved cities, from the royal buildings at The Hague to Amsterdam’s many museums, and wind through colorful tulip fields.
The best time to go is between March and June when the vibrant flower fields are in bloom.
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