For many of you, travelling Europe is a popular way to go on holiday. Taking your bikes away with you on the cycle carrier mounted to the boot of your car is a easy and convenient way to enjoy the many european cycle routes. Driving around unfamiliar towns and cities while stopping wherever you like to appreciate your surroundings is a growing favourite with travellers who have restless feet. Taking your vehicle away with you offers the opportunity to transport your bikes to undiscovered trails and locations. Cycling is an ideal way to zip around towns and travel to tourist spots without the tiredness that comes with walking all day. Filled with culture and nature, these paths attract cyclists of all levels. Whether you are enjoying a relaxing family holiday or testing your limits in a race, there is somewhere for everyone to cycle.

When thinking of places to cycle the first that springs to mind has to be the French Alps. In the winter months these mountains are a favourite of skiers and other winter sport fans, but come summer time the Alps are open to cyclists all over the world. The recommended months to cycle in the Alps are May to September. With countless climbs to ride and strenuous trails, it’s no wonder the mountains entice professionals year after year. With these challenging surroundings bring international attention from the famous Tour de France. For those who don’t know, the Tour de France is an annual male race with multiple stages that lasts around three weeks. Based in the Alps, the race features steep climbs and tight turns. The race has been around since 1903 and has continued to attract professionals to this day. Set in July of every year, the race also draws cycling fans and enthusiasts from all over the world, as they appreciate the competition and dramatic, picturesque scenery of the French Alps. Yet don’t let the mountains fool you, France has plenty more cycling trails to offer that are less challenging. The country offers flat trails for everyday cyclists who can pedal their way through cultural towns and idyllic views. Altogether, France is good for all kinds of cycling including; family bike rides, sport cycling and gentle pedalling. Enjoy France from the back of your bike and explore the different sides of the country you never knew it had.

Many fail to know that France also offers another popular cycling location, Burgundy. Famous for its wine and home to some of the most well known vineyards in the world, Burgundy is also home to stunning buildings and picturesque views. The historical region contains approximately 1000 km of cycling trails scattered around the land. Cycle past gorgeous vineyards and stop off for some wine tasting- that will give you the push to get back on your bike if nothing else will! Calming rivers and canals are featured on these trails, as well as historic cliff top villages that have lasted through time. Cyclists can follow the canal from Auxerre down to Djon, the regions capital. This route is filled with naturistic views of forests to scenic lakes, whether you’re on a family bike ride or a solo day out, this gentle route is definitely for you.

Italy is usually associated to Roman coliseums and pizza or pasta, not cycling. Yet Italy offers beautiful trails filled with culture and history that is surrounded by nature, perfect for anyone looking for an enjoyable Italian bike ride. Ask any Italian and they’ll say that the most beautiful mountains in the world are the Dolomites. The mountain range located in northeastern Italy is a place where locals and tourists go to hike, cycle and ski, while appreciating the striking views of the Dolomites. If you’re looking for a quiet route to cycle, begin at the Dolomites and follow the trail down to Lake Garda. This path is filled with mountain backgrounds and coastal areas that are some of the best Italy has to offer. A total of 180 km, not only is this an easy route but also one currently being improved. As a part of the ‘Lake Garda Project’, a floating cycle path is planned to be built offside the cliffs to separate cyclists from traffic and create the illusion of riding over the water. Due for completion in 2021, the floating cycle path is already a greatly anticipated route. Too impatient to wait till then? You can still experience all Lake Garda has to offer with the multiple cycle trails around the famous lake. Appreciate the raw beauty of the Dolomites and crystal clear waters of Lake Garda all in one with this Italian cycle route.

A lesser known cycling destination is the Danube River bike path. Suited to amateur cyclists or those looking for a relaxing, enjoyable ride, the route follows the river from Passau in Germany to Vienna. A total of 320 km for anyone interested. Not only is this route ideal for a relaxing bike ride but it is an appealing way to sightsee and experience the surroundings of different countries. The route features historic monuments and authentic towns and villages filled with beauty. Ideal for beginners, the trail slopes downhill slightly which makes for an easier ride and less pedalling. The gentle slope means you can appreciate the view and not miss out on anything because you have to focus on your bike and what you are doing. The river itself is a representation of the natural border between Germany and Austria. Following the cycle route allows you the opportunity to spot the differences between each region and take pleasure in knowing you have been to two countries in the same day. Compare the two through the town architecture, historic buildings and cultural surroundings, everything you pass by will add to your experience. If your travelling the road and decide to make a day out of the Danube cycle route, instead of renting bikes why not mount your own to the boot of your car and travel with them. It’ll definitely be worth it if you can avoid the cost and hassle of renting from somewhere unfamiliar. Especially as there are approximately 38,000 cyclists who use the bike route every year, on average 300 cyclists a day!

Here are just a select few of the favourite places to cycle regardless your skill level. Cycling can be many things from fun days out to exercise or training for a race. Mixing cycling with travel makes for a winning combination and a break completely different from the usual sunbathing holiday. There are countless cyclists that have travelled with their bikes to these culturally rich destinations in order to experience their favourite activity in new surroundings. Push your limits or take a relaxing bike ride while appreciating the stunning scenery of Europe.