How to pick your cycling holiday destination!
I have been asked recently for recommendations of some places where I been cycling abroad, so thought why not share some of my cycling holiday experiences. I will review different cycling holidays I have been on, in the hope this may interest people!!! But for now here are some tips on what to look out for when booking a cycling holiday.
1. Weather
I probably consider the weather a priority when booking my cycling holidays! (this comes from cycling in Ireland and being able to ring my clothes out after riding EVERY SINGLE DAY!). Consider what time of year you want to go away and then the first thing I do is google the average temperature that month, rainfall also important to consider!!! I want to go cycling on holiday so I can wear shorts and jersey each day not a waterproof.
2. Aims of your trip
What do you want to get out of your trip? Is it going to be a challenge, adventure or simply a fun holiday. It's worth considering whether you want to complete a challenge ride such as Land’s End to John O’Groats, have a touring holiday taking in as many sights as possible or you just want to cycle on different roads to what you're used to. I would definitely recommend all three!.
3. Cost
How much do you want to spend? This is unfortunately important and can really limit where you can get to. Especially when you add up all the additional extras! I think Ryanair might actually charge more for luggage now than they do a person! Totally ridiculous!
4. Ease of planning
Sometimes planning cycling holidays can be quite stressful as there is much more you have to think about than for your average holiday. Its worth looking at companies that do the planning for you but often these can work out much more expensive! Popular cycling destinations make planning a lot easier, things such as routes, bike shops and cafes are likely to me more accessible!
5. To take your bike or hire?
When flying I have always hired a bike, purely because I cannot stand the faffing of sorting out my bike! I have always had a good experience of hiring bikes (but I have always done considerable research on the bike shops beforehand to make sure they have good reviews), I’ve also always tried to get a bike as similar to my own as I can. This also worked really well for me when I was considering getting a new bike I was able to try it out first! However one thing to consider when hiring would be the saddle I would definitely consider taking my own. If you are going away for a long time though it may be more comfortable to take your own bike and it may work out more cost effective. Just make sure your happy packing up your bike and get good bike insurance for the flight. (And yes your bike may cost more than you if you fly Ryanair)!
Emily x
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