Preparing for Summer Cycling

Guide to Summer Cycling Holidays in Europe with Freewheel Holidays

Summer is the perfect time to explore Europe on two wheels, and with Freewheel Holidays, you’ll enjoy the freedom to cycle at your own pace while taking in the breathtaking scenery and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, Freewheel offers something for everyone. Here’s your guide to making the most of a summer cycling holiday with us:

Why Choose Freewheel Holidays?

At Freewheel Holidays, we offer self-guided cycling tours across Europe, designed for people of all abilities. We take care of the logistics so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the ride. With carefully selected routes, charming hotels, and all the freedom to cycle at your own pace, you’ll experience the best of Europe without the pressure of a group.

Destinations You’ll Love

From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched coastlines of Croatia, Freewheel Holidays offers a wide range of cycling tours across Europe. Some of our most popular destinations include:

• Italy: Cycle through the stunning landscapes of Tuscany or explore the picturesque Amalfi Coast, both offering dramatic views and charming villages.
• France: Ride through the iconic vineyards of Bordeaux, or take on the serene countryside of Provence with its lavender fields and winding paths.
• Spain: The Costa Brava and the Camino de Santiago routes offer a mix of coastal beauty and historical landmarks, perfect for cyclists of all levels.
• Austria & Germany: Cycle along the Danube River, passing through charming villages, castles, and vibrant cities like Vienna and Passau.
• Croatia: Enjoy the Mediterranean climate and stunning coastlines on a route that takes you through beautiful islands and historic towns.

How Fit Do You Need to Be?

Our tours are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to ride at your own pace. Whether you’re a weekend cyclist or a more experienced rider, you’ll find a tour that fits your fitness level. We recommend a little prep before your holiday, but most of our guests are not professional cyclists, and they still have an amazing time. If you’re worried about tackling hilly terrain, consider upgrading to an e-bike to give you that extra boost on challenging routes.

Tour Difficulty

Each cycling holiday is categorized by difficulty to help you choose the right tour:

• Easy: Perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. You’ll cover shorter distances and gentle terrain.
• Moderate: Ideal for intermediate cyclists who want a bit more of a challenge. Expect some longer rides and varying terrain.
• Challenging: For experienced cyclists looking to take on longer distances and more demanding terrain, including hills and mountain routes.

What’s Included in Your Cycling Holiday?

When you book a cycling holiday with Freewheel, here’s what you can expect:

• Accommodation: Stay in handpicked, comfortable hotels with options for bed-and-breakfast or half-board (including evening meals). Many tours offer the chance to extend your stay.
• Route Information: We provide detailed route maps and guides, so you can explore without stress.
• Luggage Transfers: We take care of transporting your luggage from hotel to hotel, so you can travel light.
• Bike Hire: You’ll have access to a high-quality hybrid bike for your tour. If you prefer, you can bring your own bike or hire an e-bike for a small supplement.
• Emergency Support: While our tours are self-guided, you’re never alone. We offer 24/7 support to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Cycling Distances and Terrain

On most tours, you can expect to cycle around 50 km (or 35 miles) per day, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and explore the surrounding area. Most routes are on quiet roads or cycle paths, and you’ll encounter a mix of flat terrain, rolling hills, and occasional climbs, depending on the tour you choose. Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned cyclist—our routes are designed to be manageable and enjoyable for all levels.

How to Get There

While we don’t include flights or rail travel in the package price, we provide you with all the info you need to get to your starting point with ease. We offer tips on flights, trains, and transfers for each destination, so you can plan your journey without hassle. Getting to your cycling holiday destination has never been easier!

Family-Friendly Cycling Holidays

Cycling holidays aren’t just for adults! We offer family-friendly tours where children can join the adventure. For teens, we recommend tours that allow them to keep up with the adults. For younger children (ages 7-12), we offer tours with shorter distances and plenty of rest days to keep things fun. We even provide child trailers and tag-alongs for younger cyclists.

Solo Travellers

If you’re traveling solo, Freewheel has you covered. Most of our tours are available for solo travellers, and we offer options to join group tours if you’re looking for some company. Our Bike and Barge tours are especially popular with solo adventurers who want to connect with other like-minded cyclists. We also offer single supplement pricing on most tours if you prefer a little extra space.

What to Pack

For a comfortable ride, pack the essentials:

• Cycling clothes: Padded shorts, lightweight jersey, and a windproof jacket for unpredictable weather.
• Footwear: Flat-soled shoes or cycling shoes if you prefer.
• Helmet: Bring your own for safety.
• Sunscreen and water bottle: Stay protected from the sun and hydrated throughout your ride.
• Travel essentials: Passport, travel insurance, and any personal items you may need.

Make Your Summer Cycling Holiday Even More Special

After a day of cycling, unwind at one of our handpicked accommodations. Many of our tours are set in charming hotels with excellent local food, so you can look forward to a delicious meal and a peaceful night’s rest. You can even extend your stay at most locations for a few extra days of relaxation.

Book Your Cycling Holiday Today

Ready to explore Europe on two wheels? Booking your summer cycling holiday with Freewheel Holidays is easy. Simply browse our destinations, choose your tour based on your ability level, and get ready for an unforgettable cycling experience.

At Freewheel Holidays, we believe in making cycling holidays enjoyable, stress-free, and accessible to everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your cycling adventure today!