Winter is coming… but imagine you could avoid donning those woolly overshoes and rain jacket and chase the summer around the world, where would you go? Here are some of the top European winter cycling destinations for some winter sun in 2022/23!
All Winter Cycling Destinations
The following destinations are ready to be explored all throughout the winter months without a leg-warmer in sight! The go-to locations for a mid-winter getaway or epic training camp these are the fail-safe, tried and tested all-winter cycling destinations.
Gran Canaria & Tenerife – Cycling Heaven
More than just a beach holiday destination, a visit to Gran Canaria by bike will leave you wondering if the island was actually designed by cyclists. Year-round temperatures of between 22 and 25 degrees, a mere 148 mm of rainfall on average over 12 months, plenty of climbing and some of the smoothest tarmac you’ll ever ride on make it a cycling haven.
The landscape of Gran Canaria is uniquely stunning and diverse ranging from sparse and volcanic to lively and green. The climbs here can be steeper than the neighbouring Canary Islands meaning the riding is somewhat more challenging and varied – perfect training terrain. Those who aren’t all about pushing their limits on a cycling getaway can take advantage of recovery time on the many beautiful beaches the island has to offer.
Canary Islands are one of our top picks for legs-out cycling as the rest of Europe stays wrapped up. Join our our Gran Canaria & Tenerife Experience for a true insight into Island life or check out our top pick of Gran Canaria’s cycle routes to plan your own trip.
Where to stay: Puerto Mogan, Cruz de Tejeda, Agaete.
Ride In The Winter Sun
The South of Spain/Calpe – Sun & Smooth Tarmac
The regions of Spain are a long-held favourite location of leisure cyclists and World-Tour teams alike. It’s no surprise that so many fly south for winter; Andalucía enjoys more than 320 days of sunshine a year and only 40 days of rain on average. Calpe and the surrounding area boasts a similarly temperate climate and is swarming with cyclists engaging in some winter training during the colder months.
The Costa Tropical region is like most good training locations – the area is very hilly, several climbs over 2,000 m, good road surfaces and sparse traffic. The Calpe/Alicante area is known in summer as a haven for those seeking sun-soaked partying but in winter it attracts a very different kind of clientele who mix with the stalwart mahogany ex-pats. Cyclists flock to the region in search of sun and smooth tarmac, which they receive in abundance. As with the rest of Spain, the draw is not only the fantastic riding but also the laid-back lifestyle and delicious food and drink on offer, re-fuelling with some delicious tapas and a cerveza is a must. Check here to see what cycling kit you’ll need for winter cycling in Southern Spain!
Where to stay: Mojacar, Calpe, Almería, Almuñécar.
A beautiful network of climbs, descents & changing landscapes
Málaga – Coast and Mountains
Málaga seems like a paradise for cyclist with its smooth roads & the buzz of a vibrant beach-side city that never sleeps.
One of our favorite rides out of Málaga is the Puerto Leon, a 16.1 Km 5.6 % AVG gradient road climb that starts right from the city. In no time you are away from the hustle and bustle and into the mountains, crossing paths only with farmers. But it is when you swing back towards the coast and you’re hit with that lovely sea breeze, that you realise just how special that mix of mountains and coast really is.
Our Málaga Classic Climbs itinerary offers 6 unique rides that combine the highlight climbs in the area with the coast. There is no better feeling than riding back from the hills to the beach for that well deserved ice coffee, ice cream or chilled beer (or all three). Check here to know Why You Should Consider Cycling in Málaga this Winter
Where to stay: Màlaga
Enjoy smooth, quiet roads & a warm climate
Christmas in Girona – A week of festivities & cycling in a beautiful region
Exploring the beautiful roads of Girona at Christmas time is the perfect plan. The catalan city and its surroundings are a cycling paradise at any time of the year, however, at Christmas time the catalan landscape looks specially alluring.
Where to stay: in the old town, Hotel Carlemany, Hotel Nord 1901
The unique region of Girona, a real paradise for cyclists
Inspiring Winter Cycling Spots
Inspired? Each of the 4 winter cycling spots above give you the ability to indulge in a cycling tour or training session when it should be too cold to be enjoyable! Take a look at our winter camps to see how you can enjoy some cycling in the sun this winter. For more information or to find out about how we can tailor a winter trip to your needs email us on [email protected] or contact us online!
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