A Beginner’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Cycling Holiday

A cycling holiday provides an opportunity to see the world, conquer new challenges, and get some valuable exercise in. But if you’re new to the world of cycling, it can be difficult to know exactly what kind of trip is right for you. Let’s take a look at how to approach the planning of a perfect beginner-friendly cycling trip.

Choose the Right Destination

You’ll want to choose a destination that’s appropriate to your cycling ability, and your personal taste. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of amazing destinations to choose from. Look at the difficulty of the available cycling routes, and the extent to which they’re being maintained. 

If you’re looking for a destination that offers a mix of scenic beauty and well-maintained cycling routes, cycling holidays in France are an excellent option. From the rolling vineyards of Burgundy to the coastal roads of Brittany, France has something to offer for every type of cyclist. When you’re ready for a bit more of a challenge, the scenery around the Alps and the Loire Valley is reliably spectacular.

Plan Your Route Based on Skill Level

Once you’ve settled on a destination, you’ll want to think about the route you’ll be travelling. You should consider the difficulty of each leg of your journey, as well as the total number of miles you’ll be travelling on a given day. If you push yourself too hard, then you might well end up exhausted at the end of every day – which might prevent you from really enjoying the holiday as you should.

Look to plan a route that can be adjusted according to how you feel during the trip. If you get halfway along an easy route, and you feel comfortable, then you might look to take a more challenging detour – if there’s one available.

Pack the Essentials for a Cycling Holiday

Cycling relies on equipment. You’ll need a bike and a helmet, as well as the tools you need to take care of them. You should also have access to clothes that will cope with a variety of different weather conditions. Flexibility matters, but be aware that you’ll need to carry extra clothes with you. Make sure that you pack light.

You’ll need to also include a first aid kit and some water – preferably in a pouch in your backpack.

Train and Prepare Physically

Before you set out, you’ll want to make sure that you’re in shape for the trip. Build up your cycling mileage week after week, until your body is comfortable with the demands you’ll be placing on it. Ideally, you should be cycling on similar terrain to the kind you’ll be travelling during your trip.

Stay Safe and Plan for Breaks

Cycling can be a dangerous pastime. It’s therefore worth taking precautions. Wear a helmet at all times, and use lights when it gets dark. You’ll also need to take breaks to rest and recharge, so plan for those breaks. Finally, it’s also worth making sure you have access to reliable GPS, particularly if you’re going to be in a remote, unfamiliar part of the world!