The Best Destinations for Luxury Cycling Holidays

Avid cyclists who want to enjoy indulgences on a holiday should consider splurging on luxury cycling holidays. These holidays include high-end accommodations, gourmet dining, and personalized experiences.

You can also expect top-quality bikes, bespoke itineraries, and expert guides. Combining the thrill of cycling with the comforts of luxury travel, these holidays promise an indulgent experience for avid cyclists.

Here are the best destinations for luxury cycling holidays.

France

With world-class scenery, exquisite cuisine, and luxurious accommodations, France has everything you need for a luxury cycling holiday. Through your cycling adventure, you can explore charming villages, picturesque vineyards, and historic chateaux, all while indulging in top-tier comforts and amenities. 

The Loire Valley is one of the most famous French regions for a cycling holiday. Follow the “Chateaux and Vineyards” itinerary, which takes you through rolling vineyards and past magnificent chateaux like the Château de Chenonceau and Château de Chambord. Book a stay in luxurious boutique hotels and dine in Michelin-starred restaurants for a more indulgent experience. 

In Provence, most cyclists follow the “Lavender and Wine” cycling route. The journey takes them through fragrant lavender fields and picturesque vineyards. Highlights include visits to renowned wineries for exclusive tastings and stays in elegant country estates or five-star hotels in towns like Gordes and Avignon.

Wine lovers should try Bordeaux’s “Wine Country Tour”. It guides cyclists through some of the world’s most famous vineyards. This route includes private tours and tastings at prestigious wineries like Château Margaux and luxurious accommodations in historic châteaux.

Read more: Best Destinations for Cycling Holidays in France

Spain 

Given its diverse landscapes and exceptional beauty, Spain is a favored destination for cycling holidays. You can cycle along picturesque routes that lead to vibrant cities, historic villages, and past scenic coastlines. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities for indulging in gourmet cuisine and luxurious accommodations along the way, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a holiday centered on luxury. 

In Catalonia, cycle along the stunning Costa Brava cycling route. It takes you along the Mediterranean coastline, passing through charming seaside towns like Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar. The best part about a cycling adventure in Catalonia is many luxury hotels can accommodate you on your journey. You can also stop by some restaurants to enjoy exquisite Catalan cuisine.

The “Rioja Wine Region” is another exceptional destination for a cycling adventure. It’s an ideal choice for wine lovers, taking you to rolling vineyards and renowned wineries in the region. You can also stay in luxurious wine hotels with restaurants specialising in local specialities that you can best pair with the local wines.

Consider combining your cycling holiday with a luxury weight loss retreat in Spain, ideal for those seeking an active and health-focused break. These retreats offer bespoke wellness programs, combining tailored cycling routes with spa treatments, nutritional guidance, and fitness classes. Cycling provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, strengthens muscles, and boosts metabolism.

A weight loss retreat can then provide structured nutrition plans, expert guidance, and additional fitness activities. This combination ensures a holistic approach to health and wellness, allowing you to make significant progress in a supportive and motivating environment while exploring Spain.

Italy

Italy is another exceptional destination for luxury cycling holidays. It is known for its many scenic cycling routes, such as the Strade Bianche in Tuscany. The renowned trail takes you through dramatic rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and charming villages. Cycle through iconic towns like Siena and Montepulciano, spend the night at luxurious agriturismos, and stop by for gourmet Tuscan meals with local wines.

The “Amalfi Coast” is another breathtaking option. This route features dramatic coastal views, winding through picturesque towns such as Amalfi and Positano. Relax in five-star seaside resorts and savour exquisite Italian cuisine with fresh seafood and local specialities.

For a unique experience, cycle along the Dolomites and enjoy stunning mountain scenery while conquering challenging climbs. Tackle legendary routes like the Sella Ronda, enjoying the dramatic alpine landscapes. Luxury mountain lodges and wellness resorts provide perfect rest stops for relaxing spa treatments and gourmet dining.

Another notable trail is the “Piedmont Wine Route,” where you can explore the renowned wine region, visiting Barolo and Barbaresco. Complement your luxury cycling adventure with stays at historic villas and wine estates. 

Read more: Best Electric Bikes for Heavy Riders

Croatia 

Croatia is another fantastic destination for those who want a cycling adventure along the coast. With a stunning blend of coastal beauty, historic charm, and exquisite accommodations, it has everything you need for luxury cycling holidays. Explore diverse landscapes on two wheels, from scenic coastal paths to lush inland trails, and stop by for a delicious meal at some of the country’s finest restaurants.

A famous cycling route is the “Dalmatian Coast” trail, which takes you through picturesque towns like Dubrovnik and Split, featuring breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Along the way, stay in luxurious seaside resorts and dine at gourmet restaurants featuring fresh Mediterranean cuisine.

The “Istrian Peninsula” provides another excellent cycling experience. This trail winds through rolling vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns like Motovun and Grožnjan. Cyclists can indulge in stays at boutique hotels and enjoy wine tastings at renowned local wineries.

Enhance the luxury experience by embarking on a cruise. Those cycling here can also cruise around the Croatian Islands, a great way to relax after an active break. Many cruises cater to active travelers, providing convenient facilities for taking your bike on board. This lets you explore various picturesque surroundings during the day before returning to the amenities and luxury of your cruise ship in the evening, turning it into the perfect luxury Croatia holiday experience.

Portugal

In Portugal, avid cyclists can tackle diverse routes, from coastal paths to inland trails, while enjoying luxurious accommodations and world-class dining. Of these routes, the Algarve Coastal Route is a standout choice. It runs along Portugal’s stunning southern coastline, featuring golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages. The area is also home to some of the country’s most luxurious accommodations and restaurants specialising in world-class dining.

Another excellent option is the “Douro Valley Wine Route.” This trail takes cyclists through the heart of Portugal’s premier wine region, with rolling vineyards and scenic river views. Along the way, visit prestigious wine estates for private tastings and stay in luxurious wine hotels or historic quintas, experiencing the region’s renowned hospitality and cuisine.

The “Lisbon to Sintra” trail features a blend of history and nature, taking you from the vibrant capital city of Portugal to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Sintra. Explore Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, stay in boutique hotels, and enjoy gourmet dining before heading to Sintra’s lush landscapes and fairy-tale palaces.