A European bike tour provides a great opportunity to get up close and personal with nature, spectacular scenery and the local culture, instead of seeing a quick glance by speeding by in your rental car. Here is a look at the top three European destinations for a bike tour.
The Dolomites
A bike tour in the Dolomites offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. This mountain range in northeast Italy extends from the River Adige in the west to the Piave Valley in the east. Those who want a more thrilling adventure will be satisfied by the dramatic ascents and descents that provide for exhilarating biking as well as sightseeing.
Cyclists will experience steep grades over passes while also exploring small hamlets set in peaceful valleys. Riders can choose from mountain biking or a casual ride on asphalt.
While summer and a beautiful sunny day will bring out the tourists along with intense traffic, your best bet for fewer people on the road and good weather is in the fall. While temperatures are a bit cooler conditions often remain stable and pleasant, making this an ideal destination in late summer to mid-fall.
Consider staying in Arabba or Corvara for a good central location, or to be among some of the best scenery, consider St. Vigilio or St. Leonhard.
Peloponnese, Greece
Peloponnese is a large peninsula in southern Greece and offers a wonderful opportunity for biking through the regions that were once home to many of Greece’s real life heroes and revered mythological figures, from King Leonidis of Sparta to Jason and his Argonauts.
Here you can cycle through an Arcadian idyll all the way to the home of the Olympic Games or pay a visit to the Spartans. If you enjoy wine, take some time to visit the vineyards along the wine road.
The Peloponnese has a varied landscape with beautiful golden beaches, crystal blue waters to towering rocky mountains and even Mediterranean vegetation combined with ancient historic remains with ancient theaters and old Venetian castles. The people of the Peloponnese are warm and friendly, with many offering a passion for preparing amazing lamb dishes and other delectable cuisine.
Autumn is one of the best times to visit the Peloponnese Peninsula with ideal temperatures and lower cost accommodations.
Ireland
The Republic of Ireland is known worldwide for spectacular and challenging biking terrain, and of course plenty of Guinness to replace those lost calories. With so many wonderful places to bike from the Dingle Peninsula to the Burren and the west coast of County Mayo, the most difficult decision is which to choose.
The Dingle Peninsula offers a chance to explore Ireland’s ancient history along with magnificent views in all directions. With hills a brilliant emerald green, this is the typical picture perfect postcard you’ve likely seen of this amazing country. Everywhere you look you’ll see stretches of stunning, wild coastline and incredible views of mist-covered mountains. The town of Dingle is the home of good Irish cheer, and even a stronghold of the Irish language offering a chance to experience local customs and many long-time traditions.
As in much of Ireland, there are a wide variety of Bed and Breakfasts to choose from in town or on the coastline. One of the best includes top ranked Pax Guesthouse with a warm and gracious owner, a view of the bay and many impressive touches to make guests feel at home. You’ll also be treated to a delicious and generously sized breakfast to refuel in the morning.
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