What to Expect

Our self-guided cycling holidays are all about living life in the slow lane: long lunches and evenings spent lounging after a day of gentle pedalling through the exquisite wine regions of Europe. Imagine a morning dip in the hotel pool before setting off for a day spent exploring, filled with wine tasting and gourmet adventures. Is there any better way to explore the beautiful wine regions of France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Slovenia, and the UK than by bicycle?

With over 40 years’ experience in tailor-made cycling holidays, we know how to strike the perfect balance between leisure and activity. We’re with you every step of the way, from the first point of call to when you arrive back home.

Cycle Easy

Our expert-planned cycling routes are designed to show you the best of the region, in the leisurely lane

Dine in Style

From gourmet lunches to al fresco dinners, you’ll dine in our favourite restaurants on your tour

Sleep like Royalty

You’ll stay in the region’s finest hand-picked hotels; think grand chateaux, spa escapes and more

Award-Winning Service

From your first call to returning home, our teams in the UK and overseas will support you

Tried & Trusted

There's a reason our clients keep coming back to book with us. Our award-winning combination of excellent customer service and ABTA & ATOL protection means you're in safe hands.

gold-trusted-awards

Our Cycle Holiday Collections

With the wind in your hair and fabulous vistas laid out in front of you, we think the best way to experience Europe is by bike. Our luxury cycling holidays in Europe are tailor-made to suit your requirements, so whether you are a family, couple, solo traveller or group of friends looking to go abroad, our cycling trips cater to your needs.

Forget tight schedules and daily distance targets – we’ve designed our cycling holidays to let you explore at your own pace. As well as beautiful scenery each of our destinations has been chosen for its other delights, including quaint villages, historical monuments, activities and, of course, delicious food and drink.

Cycling Holidays You Can Trust…

Cycling Holidays You Can Trust...

Our Favourite Cycling Tours

Our cycling tours are expertly crafted, showcasing the very best of a region. Whether it’s cultural visits and historical sights or breathtaking scenery and culinary masterpieces, experience all that the wine regions of Europe have to offer. Take a look at some of our favourite cycling holidays.

As featured in…

Cycling Holidays

Overall customer rating, based on 39 reviews.

FAQs About Our Cycling Holidays

A Cycling for Softies holiday is the perfect blend of gentle adventure and indulgent relaxation. Designed for those who love to explore at a leisurely pace, our cycling holidays combine stunning cycle routes with luxurious stays, exceptional dining, and unforgettable cultural experiences.

Imagine pedaling through sun-dappled vineyards, charming villages, or along breathtaking coastal paths – all at your own pace, with the option of e-bikes to make every journey as easy as you like. Your cycle holiday is crafted to be carefree, with luggage transfers, curated itineraries, and handpicked boutique accommodations all taken care of for you.

It’s cycling, but softer. Effortless adventures, memorable moments, and plenty of time to pause and savour the journey – that’s the Cycling for Softies way.

Our self guided cycling holidays are designed to give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with all the logistics seamlessly handled by us. Here’s how it works:

  1. Choose Your Adventure: Select from our carefully-crafted itineraries across Europe’s most stunning regions, from Provence to Tuscany and beyond. Each route is designed to showcase the beauty, culture, and gastronomy of the area.
  2. We Handle the Details: From boutique accommodations and daily luggage transfers to providing high-quality bikes (or e-bikes if you prefer), we take care of everything. You’ll also receive a detailed itinerary and easy-to-use GPS navigation, so you can cycle with confidence.
  3. Set Your Own Schedule: With no group to keep up with, you’re free to take detours, stop for a long lunch, or linger at a vineyard. It’s your journey, your way.
  4. Support When You Need It: While you have the freedom to cycle independently, our team is always a phone call away should you need assistance during your trip.

A Cycling for Softies self guided cycle holiday gives you the best of both worlds: the joy of independent exploration with the reassurance of knowing we’ve taken care of every detail. Effortless, flexible, and unforgettable – your perfect cycling escape.

Booking a cycling holiday with us is as leisurely as the journey itself:

  1. Browse Our Inspiring Holidays: Explore our hand-picked selection of cycle tours on our website. Whether it’s the rolling hills of the Douro Valley, the sun-soaked vineyards of La Rioja, or the charming villages of the Cotswolds, you’re sure to find the perfect escape.
  2. Get in Touch with Our Experts: Need advice? Our friendly travel specialists are here to help. Whether you’re deciding on a destination, tailoring your itinerary, or choosing the right type of bike, we’re just a call or email away.
  3. Customise Your Experience: Once you’ve chosen your holiday, we’ll help you personalise it. From upgrading to an electric bike to extending your trip or adding extra indulgent touches, we’ll make sure it’s just right for you.
  4. Secure Your Booking: When you’re ready, securing your spot is quick and easy. Simply confirm your details with us, and we’ll take care of the rest.
  5. Get Ready to Pedal in Style: We’ll send you everything you need to prepare for your cycle tour, from your itinerary to packing tips. All that’s left is to look forward to your effortless cycling escape!

Booking with Cycling for Softies is smooth and stress-free – just like the holiday itself. Get in touch today to get started!

A Cycling for Softies holiday is designed for everyone – whether you’re an experienced cyclist or haven’t been on a bike in years. Our cycle tours are all about leisurely exploration, not hard challenges, so there’s no need to be super fit.

Our carefully-planned routes focus on shorter daily distances, with plenty of time for breaks to soak up the scenery, visit local landmarks, or enjoy a long, relaxed lunch. And if you’d like an extra boost, we offer e-bikes on most trips, making hills a breeze and longer rides effortless.

Ultimately, you set the pace. Whether you prefer a gentle pedal through vineyards or a more active adventure, our cycling holidays are crafted to suit a wide range of fitness levels.

Packing for a cycling holiday is all about being comfortable and prepared for leisurely days of exploration. Here are the essentials:

  1. Comfortable Cycling Clothes: Bring breathable, lightweight clothing if you have it, such as padded shorts and moisture-wicking tops, to keep you comfortable on the bike. Layers are key for changing weather.
  2. Shoes and Accessories: Comfortable trainers or cycling shoes are important, along with sunglasses and a lightweight jacket. You may wish to bring gloves if the temperature drops.
  3. Day Bag Essentials: Pack sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and your camera or phone for snapping those unforgettable views. While we provide GPS navigation, a small notepad can also be handy for jotting down local tips and discoveries.
  4. Evening Attire: Our cycle holidays feature charming boutique accommodations, so bring casual outfits for relaxing evenings and enjoying gourmet meals.
  5. Cycling Gear (Optional): We provide bikes, helmets, and repair kits, but feel free to bring your own helmet or other personal gear if preferred.

For a detailed packing checklist and extra tips, check out our blog on what to pack for a cycling holiday.

With these essentials, you’ll be ready to relax, explore, and enjoy every moment of your cycle trip!

The accommodations on a Cycling for Softies holiday are carefully selected to reflect the charm, comfort, and indulgence that define our experiences. Expect boutique hotels, characterful guesthouses, and elegant châteaux, all chosen for their unique style, warm hospitality, and superb locations.

Each place you stay is more than just a bed for the night – it’s part of the journey. Think rooms with stunning views, lush gardens to relax in after a day’s ride, and even historic properties steeped in local culture. Many of our accommodations also feature exceptional dining, from gourmet restaurants to cosy, locally-inspired meals.

Whether it’s a quaint countryside inn or a luxurious retreat, you can look forward to a restful night’s sleep and an authentic taste of the region. Because with Cycling for Softies, your cycle holiday is about indulgence as much as adventure.