Something New – Unusual but Beautiful Cycling Destinations to Try

“Been there. Done that” – you might feel as if you and your two wheels have covered the globe the world over already. However, there are a few destinations that you may not have thought about (and which you should!) visiting with your trusty cycle! Here are a few out-of-the-ordinary locations where you’ll have the chance to get the best out of your bike and, who knows, maybe smash your personal best.

Santorini (Greece)

A lot of people head to Santorini to soak up the sun on the island’s gorgeous beaches, but what few people realize is that this island is terrific for cycling, too. You can go on tours that start in Santorini’s famous traditional (and beautiful!) village of Oia and then move on to the coastal part of Santorini. You’ll cycle past the beaches and up to the highest village in the island, Pirgos, for a stellar view. Tours also make use of the narrow streets and trails so that you can explore much more of the island.

The Costa del Sol (Spain)

Who wants to be wrapping up warm in winter on the roads at home when you could be getting the warm Costa del Sol sun on your face while you cycle? Whether you’re on a mountain bike or a standard road cycle, you can’t go wrong with the Costa del Sol. You can take your mountain bike out to the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, one of the most impressive gorges in the Costa del Sol and more commonly known as “El Chorro.” The Libar Plains are another good area to put your mountain biking skills to the test.

Image by zubitarra, used under Creative Commons license 2.0

Sardinia (Italy)

Another destination that attracts hordes of tourists because of its paradisiacal beaches is the island of Sardinia, Italy. However, Sardinia is a terrific destination for road cycling, and not just because of the blissful climate. The hills and mountains of the island offer just the ticket and the scenery for challenging cycling in a dream-like setting, as do the coastal roads with their frequently varying gradients. The north-east of the island is particularly inviting cycling territory, with natural sculptures such as the Capo d’Orso and the black granite rocks of Gallura.

Iceland

Again, if you’re looking for somewhere that’s a little bit different and a little bit more challenging, Iceland is the country for you to put your pedal to the mettle. The terrain is harsh and unforgiving as you head towards the interior of Iceland. The landscape is rugged and rocky and it’s mountainous, which makes it even more rewarding for any mountain biker who feels they’re up the challenge. If you take one of the ring roads, you’ll miss out on this chance to push yourself and your bike to the limit. One of the best places to take your bike are the valleys east of Reykjavik. You’ll see the steam rise from the ground as you cycle along the trail, which is rough and rocky, so you might want to stop for a moment just to take in the lush green hills.

These are just a few of the riches the world offers when it comes to enticing destinations for cyclists. Load up the roof rack with your bike, pack your cycling gear and get yourself out there. Are you up to the challenges?