Whether you’re looking for new terrain on which to train, embarking on a two-wheeled holiday or just fancy a break from the old routine, try these stunning cycling routes
Route 1: Nordkapp, Norway to Sagres, Portugal
The view from Nordkapp, Norway
Super-keen cyclists will need to pack a few extra gels for EuroVelo’s epic 5,000-mile Atlantic Route, which stretches the length of the continent from Nordkapp in Norway to Sagres in Portugal. “Expect dramatic fjords, sun-kissed beaches and bustling port towns,” says EuroVelo.
Route 2: Rudbøl to Skagen, Denmark
Called the West Coast Route, this 350-mile journey takes cyclists from the rich, flat marshland of south Denmark up to the dramatic sand dunes in the north of the country. The North Sea Cycle Route website recommends you pop solid tyres on your bike to deal with the lengthy sections of sand and gravel tracks.
Route 3: Aberdeen to the Shetland Isles, Scotland
“This route is one of contrasts,” says Sustrans of the 150-mile ride from Aberdeen to the Shetland Isles via Inverness and Orkney. Start out in Scotland’s third largest city before whizzing up the coast into the Highlands and past the ancient peatlands of the Flow Country.
Route 4: London, UK to Paris, France
Launched in 2012, this fully signposted cycling route links the capital cities of the UK and France. The Avenue Verte is 250 miles long and follows traffic-free paths and quiet roads all the way from the London Eye to the Notre Dame.
Route 5: Route des Grandes Alpes, France
Climbing Col d´Iseran, view of Val d´Isère, french Alpes
More than 400 miles of riding awaits as you travel from Lake Geneva all the way to the Mediterranean on the classic Route des Grandes Alpes. You’ll travel along some of highest passes in the Alps, including a 30-mile climb at Col de l’Iseran, and ride several sections of the Tour de France.
Route 6: The Way of St James, Spain
This famous route has been walked by millions of Christian pilgrims since the 11th century, but is now popular with cyclists who go in search of stunning wine valleys, lush countryside, medieval villages and more. The entire trip, which begins in the Pyrenees and finishes at Santiago de Compostela, clocks in at just under 500 miles.