Five winter cycle touring destinations to beat the cold
Nov
Head somewhere warm this winter…
Cold weather can be tough on cyclists in the Northern Hemisphere, but it doesn’t have to be. In the winter months, you can ride through some of the most beautiful places in the world—and then treat your body to some delicious food and a warm bath when you’re done (or enjoy a warm night under the stars). Here are five of my favorite winter cycle touring destinations in no particular order:
Morocco
If you want to experience a country that is rich in culture, history, and adventure, then Morocco is the place for you. The mountains, desert, and coast offer an array of opportunities for all types of riding. Moroccan people are welcoming and friendly; expect to be invited into someone’s home for tea or dinner at some point during your travels here.
The food is delicious and healthy too; it contains lots of spices that help fight against colds during the winter riding season. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can taste exotic cuisine as well as meet other cyclists from around the world while enjoying hot tea or coffee with milk (you won’t find many coffee shops here).
New Zealand
New Zealand is a great place for cycle touring. It’s a long way from most places, but there are lots of incredible spots to camp in New Zealand and it’s an easy country to travel around, with lots of great cycling routes of all types.
You should visit New Zealand this winter, as it has some of the best cycle touring weather in the world at this time of year!
Cuba
Cuba is a beautiful country, but it’s not the first place you think of when planning a cycle tour. However, Cuba is a great place to cycle and travel. The people are friendly and the weather is warm most of the year.
It’s also one of the safest places in Latin America to travel, with little crime or violence compared to other countries in the region. It has been off-limits for many years because of its political situation but this has changed now that relations between Cuba and other countries have improved.
Thailand
Thailand is a popular winter cycle touring destination for many reasons. The climate and terrain make it a great place to be outside in the winter months. You may even have better luck than you would have had back home, where you’re likely to see snow or extreme cold conditions if you’re cycling during this time of year.
Thailand has plenty of things to offer while on your cycle tour, but here are some things that you shouldn’t miss out on:
- The food – Thailand has some amazing ethnic cuisine that can make your mouth water just thinking about it. Some popular dishes include curries, noodles, and stir-fry with seafood.
- The scenery – If hiking isn’t really your thing then there are other ways to explore nature without getting off your bike! Thailand has lots of national parks filled with trails where it will feel like you’re riding through Jurassic Park (without all those annoying dinosaurs). These parks also give you access to beautiful views of mountains every day as well as beaches and coastline areas too.
Italy
Italy is well known for its beautiful mountain passes and the Dolomites are a popular destination for cycle tourists from all over the world. The Italian Alps offer plenty of stunning cycling routes, including the Cinque Terre, which is a hiker’s paradise but also boasts some great climbs for those who want to challenge themselves.
The best time to visit Italy is between April and October when most of the routes are open and temperatures are warm enough to enjoy them without needing too many layers.
Get out there!
The world is full of exciting places to cycle tour, and if you expand your horizons during the winter months, you’ll beat the cold-weather blues, meet some extraordinary people, and ride to your heart’s content without the frigid northern air.
Where are you riding this winter? Comment below!
P.S… inspired? Want to get out there this winter? Then the Bicycle Touring Blueprint is for you. Pick up your copy today.
