Top 9 European cycling trips

The smooth tarmac road zig-zags through remote heathland as you gradually ascend one of the longest continual climbs in England, Hartland Pass. Dig deep and keep the pedals turning for the rewards will be more than worth the effort. Riding over the brow of the hill, panoramic views of grassy highlands and the distant waters of Solway Firth come into view. Take a well-earned break at the summit and treat yourself to a slice of tasty homemade cake before enjoying a fast, freewheel descent down the other side towards the picturesque Pennine village of Alston.

Embark on a more unusual European cycling trip with a tour around the three Baltic States of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Feel the sun on your back as you pedal along the wild Curonian Spit in Lithuania and cruise through the charming fishing village of Nida, lapped by the calm waters of the lagoon. Gaze up at giant sand dunes, acting as ramparts to the swell of the Baltic Sea, and explore trails through ancient pine-tree forests thriving with birdlife, before ending a busy day in the saddle with some delicious smoked fish in the seaside town of Juodkrante.

Feel as though you've stepped back in time as you cycle through the heart of the Transylvanian Alps in Romania. Follow quiet gravel tracks as you pedal through undulating grassy hillsides dotted with wisps of leafy foliage and set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-dusted mountains. Local farmers tend to their crops with traditional scythes and sickles, and oxen heave carts full of local produce in this classical, time-forgotten wilderness.

A cycling trip along the west coast of Portugal is guaranteed to deliver breathtaking natural landscapes and picture-perfect scenery. Head here to climb gently-ascending coastal roads with views of wind-swept golden-sand beaches, foaming turquoise seas and imposing cliff tops. Follow quiet cycle paths lined with purple wildflowers and quivering grasses, and top up the energy reserves with a feast of freshly caught fish washed down with a chilled glass local white wine.

Cycle the ‘heel’ of Italy on this easy-grade tour, setting off in Altamura and ending in Monopoli. As you explore the Puglia region you’ll learn about the local art of bread making and sample cheeses from a caseificio (a cheese maker), giving you plenty of energy for the ride through quiet countryside. Each day’s ride will be different from the last as you cycle across diverse landscapes, from winding roads through rolling hills, and coastal roads with vast views of the Adriatic.