Cycling holidays in Europe are very popular, and there are some fantastic packages available. Pedal through some of Europe’s most scenic destinations, including Austria, the Czech Republic, France, Denmark and Holland. Cycling holidays give you the chance to slow down and really take in the stunning scenery around you and fully explore your destination.

The hire of bikes is usually pre-arranged before your arrival and you are then free to cycle, self-guided between hotels. Most cycling holidays allow you to pick the routes from a series of suggestions for each day and cycle entirely at your own pace. Each route is tried and tested meaning all you have to do is relax and take in the idyllic scenery.

delightful bay of llafranc

Spain is a popular choice for cycling holidays and the Catalan coast offers a whole host of beautiful routes to suit all abilities. The charms of unspoiled Catalonia are impossible to resist. The coastline reveals hidden coves and sandy beaches where you can relax and cycle away from the crowds. While inland, the Emporda Plan, south of the river Ter, is an intriguing patchwork of medieval farms, ancient villages, fields of sunflowers and vineyards. Let’s take a look at one cycling holiday along the Catalan coast.

Peratallada

For the first day, enjoy a lazy day by the pool or head out to explore the wonderful array of countryside, north of Mademanya. Why not stop and check out the Dali museum in Pubol along the way? There are also some lovely picnic spots for you to stop and have a rest. On the way back you can opt for a shorter route if you prefer for a slightly easier end to the day. That is the great thing about cycling holidays; you can choose your routes depending on how you are feeling each day.

The second day begins with a pleasant, downhill ride through flower-filled scenery heading towards flatter, quiet roads, with views of the rugged Gavarres hills to the south and the Pyrenees to the north. Then you pass through the quaint traditional villages of Monells and San Sadurni on the way to Peratallada.

The suggested circular ride for day three starts at Pertallada and takes you through open farmland and fields of sunflowers, passing through the beautiful walled medieval village of Ullastret. Why not detour to visit the nearby remains of an Iberian (pre-Roman) settlement. If you feel like a longer route cycle along the river Daro to the village of Ultramort, the perfect place for a rest and cool, refreshment before heading back to the hotel.

beautiful hill-top medieval Pals

On day four, cycle south across the inland plain via the medieval hill-top town of Pals. Wander the ancient ramparts and cobbled streets of this delightful town. Visit the viewpoint overlooking the glistening Mediterranean Sea and the Medes Islands. This enthralling town has lots of appetising restaurants making it the ideal point for lunch. The flat route means an easy ride into the quiet bay of Llafranc where you spend your last two nights at the seafront Hotel Terramar.

On the final day relax on the pretty beach at Llafranc or enjoy a gentle circular cycle route south to Palamós along the coastal path with amazing views of the coast. The coast is scattered with idyllic coves and beaches, ideal for a quick dip in the crystal clear waters. The route takes you past the beautiful botanical gardens at Cap Roig which are well worth a visit if time permits.