Where to Go Cycling in Winter in Europe

The best European destinations for cycling in winter 🔗

Best Warm Climate Destinations for riding your bike

As days start getting shorter and tempeartures plummet - we take a look at the best cycling destinations to get some sun, avoid the rain, and keep training.

As the colder months settle across Europe, many road cyclists look for destinations that offer warmer climates for uninterrupted training or leisurely rides. While Northern and Central Europe may be blanketed in snow and chill winds, southern regions and island territories maintain inviting conditions for winter cycling. This guide will explore the best warm-weather cycling destinations in Europe during winter, offering optimal climates, scenic routes, and much-needed rest stops.

Top Warm-Weather Cycling Destinations for Winter🔗

1. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands🔗

• Climate: 19-24°C (66-75°F) in winter
• Road Quality: Excellent, with smooth, well-maintained roads
  

Gran Canaria is a prime destination for winter cycling, thanks to its year-round mild climate. The island offers a variety of routes, from flat coastal roads to challenging mountain climbs. The famous Pico de las Nieves, the island’s highest peak, offers a 40km climb with spectacular views. For less experienced riders, the coastal routes between Maspalomas and Playa de Mogán provide scenic, flat rides.

• Rest Days: Explore Maspalomas Dunes or relax on the sunny beaches of Las Canteras. For nature lovers, a hike through the Bandama Caldera offers stunning geological formations.
• Famous Food: Sample bienmesabe, a traditional Canary Island dessert made of almonds, sugar, and eggs.

2. Mallorca, Spain🔗

• Climate: 13-18°C (55-65°F) in winter
• Road Quality: Excellent infrastructure, with bike-friendly roads
  

Mallorca is a well-known haven for professional cycling teams that flock to the island in the off-season. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range offers stunning climbs, including the famed Sa Calobra, a 9.4km climb with hairpin bends and jaw-dropping views. For those seeking flatter terrain, the roads around Alcúdia and Cap de Formentor are perfect for long, scenic rides.

On top of that, you still get a lot of teams doing their post-season training camps in Mallorca. One notable mention is Team Ineos, who have been going to Mallorca in December for over a decade!

• Rest Days: Spend a day exploring the charming streets of Palma or visit the historic Cuevas del Drach. Don’t miss the markets in Sineu for a taste of local culture.
• Famous Food: Try ensaimada, a spiral-shaped pastry that’s perfect for a post-ride treat.
  

3. Andalusia, Spain🔗

• Climate: 15-20°C (59-68°F) in winter
• Road Quality: Good to excellent, though some rural roads can be rough
  

Andalusia is a sunny haven in southern Spain, offering everything from challenging mountainous routes in Sierra Nevada to scenic flat rides through the Valley of Lecrín. Climbers will appreciate the ascent to Veleta, the highest paved road in Europe, with a dramatic 40km climb. For less intense rides, the roads around Seville and Granada offer picturesque landscapes and fewer gradients.

• Rest Days: Visit the Alhambra in Granada or the historic city of Seville. Andalusia is also home to stunning beaches like Nerja if you prefer some seaside relaxation.
• Famous Food: Don’t leave without trying churros con chocolate or turrón, a traditional Spanish nougat.

4. Cyprus🔗

• Climate: 15-20°C (59-68°F) in winter
• Road Quality: Well-maintained, with a mix of coastal and mountainous roads

Cyprus offers a mix of long coastal rides and rugged mountain climbs. Routes around Limassol and Paphos provide scenic coastal riding, while the Troodos Mountains offer tougher, more mountainous terrain. One of the best rides on the island is the climb to Mount Olympus, Cyprus’ highest peak.

• Rest Days: Take a day to explore Aphrodite’s Rock or wander the ancient ruins in Kourion. Cyprus also has beautiful beaches if you’re craving some sun and sand.
• Famous Food: Indulge in loukoumades, Cyprus’ take on fried dough balls, perfect with a cup of Cypriot coffee.
  

5. Sicily, Italy🔗

• Climate: 12-18°C (54-65°F) in winter
• Road Quality: Mostly good, though some rural roads can be rough
  

Sicily provides a fantastic mix of rolling hills, flat coastal roads, and volcanic climbs. One of the most famous rides is the ascent up Mount Etna, an active volcano offering stunning views and a demanding climb. If you’re after flatter rides, the coastal roads between Palermo and Cefalù are ideal for more leisurely rides.

• Rest Days: Explore the ancient ruins of Agrigento or the bustling markets in Palermo. The coastal town of Taormina is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the views.
• Famous Food: Sicily is famous for its cannoli, a deliciously rich pastry filled with ricotta cheese.

6. Algarve, Portugal🔗

• Climate: 15-20°C (59-68°F) in winter
• Road Quality: Excellent with smooth, bike-friendly roads

The Algarve, in southern Portugal, is known for its smooth roads, stunning coastal cliffs, and mild winter climate. Popular routes include the rolling hills near Monchique or flat, scenic rides along the Atlantic coast. For a challenging climb, head inland towards Foia, the highest point in the Algarve.

• Rest Days: Relax on the beaches of Lagos or explore the historic towns of Faro and Silves. Golfers may want to hit the region’s world-class courses.
• Famous Food: Pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) are a must-try after a long ride.
  

Winter cycling in Europe doesn’t have to mean indoor trainers or braving icy roads. From the sun-drenched Canary Islands to the rugged terrain of Sicily, there are plenty of warm-weather destinations that offer scenic routes, challenging climbs, and plenty of activities to enjoy off the bike. Whether you’re looking to maintain your fitness, explore new routes, or simply escape the cold, these destinations promise an unforgettable cycling experience in Europe’s milder climates.

Make the Most of Your Winter Cycling Holiday

Winter cycling in Europe doesn’t have to mean indoor trainers or braving icy roads. From the sun-drenched Canary Islands to the rugged terrain of Sicily, there are plenty of warm-weather destinations that offer scenic routes, challenging climbs, and plenty of activities to enjoy off the bike. Whether you’re looking to maintain your fitness, explore new routes, or simply escape the cold, these destinations promise an unforgettable cycling holiday in Europe’s milder climates.

Additional Tips:

• Plan Ahead: Research local cycling events or tours to enhance your experience.

• Accommodation: Look for bike-friendly hotels that offer secure storage and facilities.

• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on regional specialties to fuel your rides.

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Embrace the opportunity to explore these regions and enjoy the balance of warm weather, beautiful landscapes, and well-maintained cycling routes to kick start your training for that year! Form healthy habits early.