European cycling holidays are among the very best in the world. With the continent having such a varied landscape, there are routes to suit all preferences, from flat coastal paths to rugged mountain climbs that would put even the likes of Team Ineos to the test.

It’s a continent that will really create special memories when it comes to holidaying there, whether with a cycling club, family or just a group of friends. Of course, it’s a tricky choice deciding exactly where to go, but we’ve pulled out a handful of great cycle routes for you to consider…

Nice to Eze

For those who want an exciting cycling trip then Nice to Eze is a beautifully picturesque route that has even appeared in James Bond car chases. It has hills to test your stamina, rising to a height of 507 metres.

It’s not the longest of routes but popular for training, while also featuring regularly in Tour de France stages. Many pros live in the area, with the likes of Chris Froome regularly testing his mettle before heading back down into Monaco and his home. 

Of course, for visitors, riding back down into Monaco is a must where it’s the perfect place to strip of the lycra and put on your glad rags and enjoy an evening of fine dining and in the famous casino. A great route for a group of friends, especially those who love a bit of online Casino777.nl roulette and want to take their slot gaming to the next level, nothing quite beats a cycle in the sun before heading down for an exciting evening.

Romantic Road

The Romantic Road is a much longer ride than a few hills around Monaco, taking in 440km of routes through the gorgeous countryside and medieval towns of Germany, stretching from Nordlingen through to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. 

It’s a route that offers up stunning view after stunning view, taking in major cities such as Augsburg, perfect for a stop off, dinner and a good night’s sleep, while towards the end of the route you can see the Alps climbing up in the distance, alongside the likes of Neuschwanstein castle. It’s a spectacular view and if you want to really spend a trip exploring on your bike with perfect scenery, then Germany is certainly worth considering.

The Croatian Coast

The D25 road from Gospic to Karlobag in Croatia offers a gruelling 24km climb up a mountain pass, and while it isn’t for the faint hearted, you will reap the rewards when you get to the top. Following two hours or getting your head down, the road will open up and you can ride through the village of Baske Ostarije, definitely stopping off for some refreshments along the way.

Riding along the mountain ridge, you can look out to sea where there are dozens of small islands lining the Adriatic Sea. It’s a spectacular sight and makes the tough hours you’ve already put in disappear from your legs, coasting back down and into Karlobag.

The Amalfi Coast

One of the most popular routes in Europe is southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Hundreds upon hundreds of bike lovers arrive in the region each year, soaking up the sun and the beauty spots that cover coasts, hills and forests. 

As it’s such a popular route, there are lots of great stopping points, and it’s a perfect cycling holiday for families, with both easy and difficult routes to keep it challenging for all capabilities. Of course, with so many villas and luxury resorts along the coastline too, you can finish the day with your feet up and a dip in the pool too. Bliss.