For those who enjoy outdoor activities, cycling tours offer a great way to dive into the area. Every day during a cycling tour is different, as you trade through changing landscapes and stop in directions that interest you. They attract many people as a way to explore the region, soak up the culture and taste the local cuisine.
If you are planning a cycling holiday in 2010, here are some great tours that will refresh and inspire you.
Cycle around suffolk coast
There are several coastal areas in the UK that are as pristine as in Suffolk. Compared to other parts of the country, the Suffolk coastline is reliably undeveloped, and instead of a house there are rocky beaches, crumbling rocks, the crash of waves and a wide open sky.
Suffolk cycling tours are ideal for those who are looking for gentle cycling. Mostly flat terrain and plenty of off-road bike lanes are a good choice for the casual cyclist.
Cycling holidays on the Suffolk coastline will appeal to those who appreciate the quiet pace of life, village pubs and the restorative effects of the sea air. The main attractions of this area include a visit to Southwold, where Adnams beer is brewed; the Snape concert hall, world-famous for its classical performances and art exhibitions, as well as fish and chips in Dunwich, was served in a hut near the beach.
Enjoy relatively flat cycling in Norfolk
Norfolk is famous for being flat, but that doesn't mean it's boring. Consisting mainly of arable land, bicycle tours to Norfolk occupy amazingly peaceful countryside, quaint old villas and bustling market towns along the way.
Norfolk coastline is also a must-have. Offering about 90 miles of the most beautiful landscapes and beaches that can be found anywhere on the British Isles, it stretches straight from The Wash to the old port city of Lowestoft.
Pedders' ancient path from burdens to the north coast of Norfolk crosses the lands of predators full of wild life. Most of the route passes through an area of outstanding natural beauty, and thanks to the gentle gradients of the area, the cycle path is ideal for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Follow the quiet streets just inland from the coast, and around every corner you will see even more breathtaking landscapes.
North Coast Norfolk takes in an abundance of resident and migratory bird life, and the seal sanctuary at Bleken Point is home to one of the largest colonies on the east coast. Also in this area not far from the Bernem market is Bern Thorp, the birthplace of Lord Nelson. Here you will find Lord Nelson’s pub, where a warm welcome, real ale and hearty local food awaits you after a long day in the saddle.
See Venice by bike
Peggy Guggenheim, a passionate contemporary art collector, once wrote about Venice, “Venice is not only a city of fantasy and freedom, but also a city of joy and pleasure,” and you can get to know it first hand on a bicycle tour in Venice.
Cycling holidays in Venice and Venice are ideal for couples who love outdoor activities. Surrounded by historic architecture, a labyrinth of canals, antique markets and beautiful gardens, Venice is the perfect romantic getaway you will remember forever. A great place to start is Mestre, not far from Venice, where you can take a short cruise on the Grand Canal using a vaporetto or water bus. Venice is just a few minutes drive from the Freedom Bridge.
The main attractions of the city include San Marco, the square in the city center, which annually attracts millions of tourists, and Ponte di Rialto - the bridge in the commercial center of the city. Around this bridge you will find souvenir sellers, the famous fruit and vegetable market, the city’s oldest church and a gallery of modern art.
There are many opportunities to see in a wider area. Bike to Abano Terme for a relaxing thermal bath or explore the ancient city of Padua by bike, the place for Shakespeare's “Taming of the Shrew”. There is so much to see in this region, and in combination with the warm sun, gentle cycling and delicious Italian cuisine, it will provide the perfect break to recharge your batteries and spend time with your loved ones.
Cycle through respiratory landscapes in Austria
Any bike ride in Austria would be incomplete without the inclusion of at least part of the Danube River. The route from Passau to Vienna (another of Shakespeare's favorites) takes one of the most beautiful landscapes that can be found in this part of the world. Hotels in this area differ in quality and offer accommodation from 2 to 4 stars.
Bike rides around the Salzkammergut or the Austrian lake district seem to be an exclusive place for a gentle and relaxing cycling holiday, as it is a natural mountain region. However, you can take the stress off the bike in the area, including a range of rides by boat or train. This will allow you to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views, rather than holding your breath through cycling. The historic and quite beautiful city of Salzberg, once home to composer V.A. Mozart is worth a visit, and it offers a wide range of accommodation to meet all budgets.
