Which European country is best for cycling?

The big players on the European cycling scene always top the list for the best European country for cycling: France, Italy, Spain. There’s no doubt these nations offer an incredible array of terrains, stunning landscapes and a deep-rooted cycling culture. But they’re not the only destinations to be considered when planning a Vacaciones ciclistas europeas. How about Denmark, Slovenia, Portugal, the UK and Ireland or even Iceland? The bike-friendly nations offer some spectacular opportunities for riding, epic climbs, picturesque scenery and great cycling infrastructure. Pick your season well and it could be the cycling holiday of a lifetime. 

Join us as we explore these on- and off-the-beaten-track destinations to help you decide which European country is best for cycling. 

Cycling in Iceland, the land of fire and ice

Iceland is a country known for its outstanding natural beauty, with dramatic landscapes featuring towering glaciers, black sand beaches and vast lava fields. Cycling in Iceland is unlike anywhere else in Europe. It is even possible to cycle around the entire island (over several days) covering around 1,300 km of stunning wilderness, or head up into the Highlands on gravel tracks that wind through lunar-esqe volcanic terrain. As well as cycling, it is common to see locals hiking, trail running, skiing, snowboarding, horseriding and even ice climbing… any chance to soak in the local natural wonders. 

Nuestro Aventura de fuego y hielo en grava en Islandia offers a packed eight days of riding around the southwest of Iceland, visiting natural must-see spots such as the Svínaskard pass, the Hvalfjörður inlet, the mighty Langjökull (the Long Glacier) and the Þingvellir National Park. In total, the cycling holiday covers 520 km through these majestic landscapes. Along the way, we’ll visit hot springs, experience the strange sensation of 24-hour sunlight, and sample delicious local dishes on this full-board tour. 

Cycling in Slovenia, vast forests and stunning lakes

Slovenia is another European cycling destination rapidly becoming one of the best choices for cycling among road and gravel riders. These rich landscapes span coastline, mountains and valleys, from the warm Adriatic to the peaks of the Julian Alps across the country's well-maintained network of bike paths and trails. Slovenia also has a strong cycling culture, exemplified by Ljubljana’s 300 km of cycle lanes, and the government’s promotion of rural cycling routes around the capital (surrounded by lush forests that cover more than 60% of the country’s landscapes) and beyond. 

Nuestro Gira por Eslovenia y Grava de Eslovenia cycling tours aim to showcase the best this country has to offer in seven jam-packed days of riding (both available in guided and self-guided formats). These tours explore the picturesque Logar Valley, with the chance to sample local homemade cheeses, and the iconic Lake Bled, boasting fairytale views of its island church and surrounding mountains. Highlights on the road tour include tackling mountain passes, such as the Vršič Pass o Mangart Saddle, the former featuring 50 hairpin bends and breathtaking views, and the Triglav National Park, featuring well-marked routes winding through beech, fir, and spruce forests. The routes on our gravel tour mainly stick to wide, compact gravel roads ideal for most experience levels. 

Cycling in France, into the belly of the beast

France might just be the first country you think of when comparing European countries best for cycling. From the Tour de France and its historic mountain passes over the Alps and Pyrenees, to the country’s popularity among bikepackers exploring the sweeping landscapes of Provence, France is a veritable playground for all disciplines and levels of experience with an unrivalled cycling heritage. Just the mention of the Alpe d’Huez, Lacets du Montvernier and the Col du Télégraphe bring shivers to those who have witnessed the gruelling climbs of the Tour. 

Part of our Recorrido por la Provenza, el mighty Mont Ventoux is another favourite among road riders, another of the Tour’s climbs, which has ascended the mountain eighteen times since 1951. The French Pyrenees offer more epic climbs, thrilling descents and exquisite, ever-changing scenery, featuring the Tourmalet, the Peyresourde, the Aspin, the Hautacam, Luz Ardiden and more, interspersed with pretty villages such as Luchon, Saint Lary and Saint Savin nestled into the green valleys. Add in France’s exceptional cuisine and world-class cycling infrastructure, and it’s no surprise this country continues to top the list of the best European countries for cycling. 

Spain, much more than sun, sea and sand

Spain is a tapestry of cultures, of landscapes and of people. Lying just a few kilometres from North Africa, Spain’s landscapes span deserts, snow-capped mountains, lush vineyards, and extensive national parks. Spain caters to every type of rider, and every type of traveller, with the option to explore mainland Spain on the Iberian Peninsula, or its numerous islands that make up the Balearic y Canary archipelagos. 

Starting in the north, Gerona, the city Eat Sleep Cycle calls home, has earned its reputation as a cyclist’s paradise, attracting professional teams and cycling enthusiasts of all disciplines to explore the vast network of roads and trails that criss-cross northern Catalonia. Iconic climbs like Rocacorba or Els Àngels are easily accessible for riders staying in the city centre, the perfect base for pre- and post-ride food, drink and activities (feel free to stop by the ESC Girona Hub for tips!). 

Moving towards the south, we find Andalusia, home to Malaga, our second ESC Hub, and Almeria’s Badlands, miles and miles of rugged, wild, arid expanses, ideal for gravel and mountain biking. The Badlands stretch from the Gorafe and Tabernas Deserts to the coast of the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve. This dramatic landscape presents challenging terrain (which has in the past been used as a filming location for spaghetti Westerns), but a unique adventure that leaves a mark on any rider who conquers it. 

Heading on to Malaga on Spain's southern coast, the unique blend of coastal and mountainous terrain, year-round sunshine and warm winter climate offer the perfect combination of conditions for off-season riding. Ride the seaside routes along the Costa del Sol, or explore the Montes de Málaga through fields of almond and avocado trees. For us, Spain always ranks highly for best European country for cycling; it just ticks all the boxes. Take a look at our full range of Spanish cycling holidays including tours in Mallorca, the Spanish Pyrenees, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Girona and Málaga, among others. 

UK and Ireland, the wild isles

While they are often dismissed for their notorious climate, the UK and Ireland have a huge array of riding opportunities to be sought out and discovered. These isles’ rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines and quiet back roads stretch as far as the eye can see, offering some stunning backdrops for road, gravel and mountain biking. Both islands are steeped in history following numerous invasions over the centuries, which has created a rich patchwork of unmissable architecture, historic ruins and a network of quiet, winding roads carved out by Vikings, Celts and Romans. The magic of an early misty morning, or a crimson sunset filling the open sky, will forge unforgettable memories that call you back to these special islands time and time again.

Nuestro Recorrido por Yorkshire captures some of this magic, as we aim to showcase the beautiful English countryside in its best light. Starting on the east coast of England in the picturesque village of Robin Hood’s Bay, the Tour begins with a gentle spin to the fishing town of Whitby, before heading west across the famous Yorkshire Moors and into the stunning Yorkshire Dales. Riders will experience the majesty of the Lake District, sampling local treats such as Kendal Mint Cake, and visiting traditional English pubs for craft beer. There’ll be ample opportunities to try afternoon tea, (nowhere in the UK does tearooms quite like Yorkshire), fish & chips, hearty roast dinners and Yorkshire puddings. Riding highlights include Buttertubs Pass and Fleet Moss, Wrynose and Hardnott Pass (two of the toughest climbs in the UK), and riding the banks of Lake Windermere. 

Want to discover the most bike-friendly country in Europe for yourself?

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