Thousands of cyclists flock to the cycling mecca of Mallorca every year but while the Spanish island is a beautiful place to ride, it isn’t the only cycling holiday destination.
Amidst the popularity of this one Spanish island, there are throngs of other cycling holiday destinations just waiting to be visited, with tarmac so smooth, hairpins so tight and views so spectacular that you might want to start packing now. If you’re planning a bike trip, and you’re looking to go somewhere other than Mallorca – here’s my top 5 alternative cycling holiday destinations.
1. Switzerland
If you are after stunning scenery, picturesque turquoise lakes and ample mountains to climb, Switzerland should be at the top of your list for a cycling holiday.
The European country offers some of the best road cycling in the world, with its luscious forests, excellent bike paths which skirt around lakes, and quaint Swiss villages amidst the unspoilt alpine scenery.
With 17 mountain passes higher than 2,000m, it’s also the perfect holiday destination for the climbers.
A personal favourite route is to take on the Gotthard pass at 2,106m and descend on the famous cobbled hairpin road towards Ticino where you join a glorious bike path deep in the valley surrounded by monstrous peaks.
In my experience, cycling in Switzerland is very pleasant as people are friendly and welcoming to cyclists and campsites are also reasonable at around 10€ a night.
2. Nice, France
Fancy combining the sea and some cycling? On the south coast of France lies the city of Nice which is the perfect destination for a cycling holiday thanks to its proximity to mountains and the Mediterranean.
Nice’s climate is pleasant all year round which means many of the mountain passes are often open and it’s usually dry.
The city also offers an abundance of route options for all levels.
Ride through the Vieux Port admiring the yachts, or towards the rolling hills to sample the local vineyards a stone’s throw away or head up the ample climbs nearby including the legendary Col de la Madone and Col d’Èze.
Try the local snack, Socca, which is a crispy chickpea pancake and the perfect post-ride indulgence.
The city has plenty of cycling-friendly spaces, including the Café du Cycliste shop and the Massacan Rifugio which has excellent coffee.
3. Tuscany, Italy
Another European cycling gem is the region of Tuscany, known for its rolling hills, delectable food, medieval towns, and stunning countryside. Picture olive groves, vineyards, and you on two wheels under the Tuscan sun.
From cycling through Florence and Siena’s Piazza del Campo, to hilltop towns like Montepulciano, Tuscany has no shortage of culture and history all accessible by bike.
The Apennines also offer some great climbing, try the SP24 road which heads through the mountains. It is a quiet road which offers some stunning hairpins and panoramic views of the region.
Tuscany is also made for the gravel rider, with its extensive network of strade bianche (white roads) which are characteristic of the region and play host to its namesake bicycle race.
4. Utah, USA
For those looking to head further afield than a European cycling holiday destination, try Utah in the USA.
Already known as an excellent mountain biking destination, this American state is also a playground for road riding, thanks to its silky-smooth asphalt with breathtaking rock formations as the backdrop.
The South features iconic red rocks and canyon landscapes while the North is known for its mountains, including the towering 4,123m King’s Peak.
With 28 scenic byways to choose from, which are essentially pre planned routes, Utah offers the opportunity for a stunning cycling adventure holiday through its vast scenery.
It’s also worth mentioning that the gravel riding here is plentiful, making Utah an ideal bikepacking holiday destination if you fancy a multi-day adventure.
5. Jordan
Another lesser-known road cycling holiday gem is the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
With its abundance of natural wonders and ancient treasures, Jordan makes for a memorable holiday destination at the best of times, and you can also discover it all by bike.
Imagine cycling to Petra, the Dead Sea, or even the Wadi Rum desert where Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker was filmed. All possible.
Jordan offers sharp and punchy rolling hills and endless snaking roads, playfully laid out amidst the warm desert sun.
A personal highlight is in the north around the town of Uum Qais which boasts ancient ruins, beautiful views and quiet roads, while in the south you can ride through other-worldly desert landscapes towards the aforementioned jewels of the country.
It is best to visit Jordan in the cooler months like October and November as weather conditions can be unforgiving especially in the height of summer when temperatures can hit high 30s.
The roads aren’t always smooth asphalt, and gravel would likely do very well there, so choose your tyres wisely. Bikepackers should check out the Jordan Bike Trail, a momentous 730 km route which crosses the entire country and is on my bucket list.
