Solo cycling adventures you have to try in Europe

Nothing is quite as satisfying as traveling long distances on just two wheels. As well as getting you away from the distractions of everyday life, cycling adventures have the unique capacity to instill confidence, increase one’s self-esteem, and even lengthen life expectancy.

And who better to enjoy this quality time with than yourself? All you need is a good quality bike, a few essentials for cooking and camping, and maybe a book to pass the evenings. If this sounds like you, Europe is packed with cycle routes and tours.

Safety when cycling alone

As the saying goes, there’s safety in numbers – but what if you’re by yourself? Safety is of the utmost importance when tackling a big cycling tour alone. As well as a sturdy helmet, you should also invest in high-visibility clothing and a first aid kit should anything happen to you on the road.

Your safety is also determined by the condition of your bike. Keep a bike repair kit on you at all times so you can fix minor things like flat tires, chain issues or adjust your seat. These will also make your ride much more comfortable.

Benefits of cycling holidays

The health benefits of cycle tours are too numerous to count. Not only do they do wonders for your cardiovascular health, but they also force you to be in the great outdoors 24/7, breathing in fresh air from morning to night. 

There’s also no underestimating the benefits cycling has on your mental health too. It’s impossible to get distracted by the digital world and you are forced to focus on the here and now for much of the trip. 

Best countries for cycling in Europe

France

Endless miles of coastline and ever-changing landscapes make France a hotspot for cyclists. Depending on the kind of landscapes you want to immerse yourself in, you can choose between panoramic coastal views, mighty alpine vistas, and picturesque lavender fields. 

Provence lends itself particularly well for cyclists and offers plenty of historical ruins and natural beauty, all with some spellbinding French cuisine to wrap up a great day. The French Alps are, of course, an area of outstanding natural beauty, as is Loire with its vineyards and fine food.

Italy

Another country that is blessed with a whole range of landscapes is Italy. From the staggeringly high Dolomites in the north to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the beachy paradise of the south, there are routes for all difficulty levels.

For those who want a real challenge, stick to northern Italy. Sardinia, in the south of Italy, is also a cyclist’s paradise in its own right and has seaside bike paths and mountainous terrain in equal measure. Needless to say, Italy always has something delicious cooking, so you won’t ever be hungry!