Looking for the best autumn cycling destinations in Europe to embark on unforgettable rides? Well, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 cycling destinations in fall that will satisfy your cycling cravings and leave you craving more. From the stunning coastline of Cannes to the unique landscapes of Mallorca and the rugged beauty of Crete, these places have it all. So book your bike now, winter is not here yet! Discover our selection of the 10 best places to go cycling this autumn.
Nestled on the French Riviera, Cannes is a breathtaking cycling holidays destination during autumn. During this time, the beaches are less crowded, providing cyclists with the opportunity to enjoy the magical coastal views in a more serene setting.
Ride along the legendary coastline, with the azure Mediterranean Sea on one side and charming villages on the other. The pleasant autumn weather allows you to pedal through the stunning landscapes at your own pace and avoid getting sunburn. Autumn brings a vibrant burst of colors to the landscapes surrounding Cannes. As the leaves change to warm hues of red, orange, and yellow, the scenery becomes even more astonishing. Furthermore, the sea is often still warm enough for the more adventurous who want to finish their cycle tour with a nice swim.
If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, you could head to the Esterel Mountains following this route from Cannes and embark on an exhilarating cycling journey. Immerse yourself in the vibrant autumn colors as you pedal through the winding trails. Don’t forget to take in the panoramic views of the coastline and the majestic red rocks that add a touch of magic to your ride.
Mallorca, one of the Balearic Islands in Spain, offers a true cycling paradise with its diverse terrain. If you’re into cycling, then there is no doubt you’ve already had the chance to explore it. But when autumn arrives, it’s the perfect time to go (or go back!). The mild temperatures and warm autumn colors highlight the beauty of the island.
Enjoy the cool autumn breeze as you cycle along the pristine beaches, charming fishing villages, and hidden coves. With a wide range of cycling paths and bike-friendly infrastructure, Mallorca caters to cyclists of all levels, promising unforgettable autumn cycling experiences.
This island is THE cycling destination and this is the place to challenge yourself. Test your skills by conquering the challenging Tramuntana Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pedal through hairpin bends, breathtaking cliffs, and picturesque villages, surrounded by the vibrant autumn foliage.
Corsica, the mountainous island in the Mediterranean, is a fantastic cycling destination and a nature lover’s paradise. The mild autumn temperatures and stunning landscapes make Corsica an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts seeking a perfect blend of nature and adventure.
Whether you’re heading west from Ajaccio or north from Bastia, there are plenty of options. One of the most famous and also most challenging itinerary is the GT20. This 592.5km cycling route, which starts in Bastia and finishes in Bonifacio is entirely on roads. It has a total ascent of more than 10,000m, so you better make sure you’ve trained for it!
Embark on an epic cycling adventure and conquer the legendary Col de Bavella. Marvel at the rugged peaks, deep gorges, and dense forests as you challenge yourself on this demanding yet rewarding route during the vibrant autumn season.
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, offers a delightful cycling experience with its pleasant climate throughout the year. Challenge yourself to conquer Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain (3,715m). As you ascend through diverse landscapes, experience a dramatic change in scenery, from volcanic terrain to lush pine forests, while relishing the mild autumn temperatures.
Discover Tenerife’s fantastic coastal roads, which wind their way along the island’s shores. Marvel at the azure Atlantic Ocean, golden sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs as you pedal through charming villages on the coast. The island’s unique blend of natural beauty and favorable weather conditions make it a top choice for autumn cycling adventures.
Calpe, located on the Costa Blanca in Spain, offers a diverse terrain for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you want to ride by the sea or through the mountains, you have plenty of choice, depending on your favorite type of cycling.
We would definitely recommend experiencing the beauty of Calpe on its beautiful coastal routes during the autumn months. Ride alongside the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, soaking in the breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and sandy beaches. Stop to enjoy one of the best meals in Calpe, a traditional dish called ‘Arroz a Banda’. This flavorful and aromatic rice dish is a local specialty that showcases the region’s rich culinary heritage.
With its mild temperatures and excellent cycling infrastructure, Calpe provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable autumn cycling escape.
Challenge yourself by conquering the Sierra de Bernia, a mountain range that offers thrilling ascents and exhilarating descents. Immerse yourself in the stunning autumn landscapes, dotted with almond and olive groves, as you pedal through this captivating region.
La Bourgogne, known for its world-renowned wines, is a fantastic cycling and cultural destination in autumn. Pedal through sprawling vineyards, historical villages, and enchanting countryside. Immerse yourself in the vibrant autumn colors and relish the gentle breeze as you explore this charming region, indulging in its gastronomic delights along the way. Explore on your bike the rich history and cultural heritage of Burgundy as you cycle past ancient castles and magnificent châteaux.
Choose to go in September and you can take advantage of the end of the grape harvest and its many festivals. Or you can opt for early November, when the Beaujolais festival is held on the third Thursday in November. The arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau, a new red wine, is celebrated in every cellar and bistro in France. A must do in Dijon before heading home!
Algarve, located in the sunny south of Portugal, beckons cyclists with its stunning landscapes and mild autumn climate. Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Pedal through salt pans, marshes, and lagoons while observing a rich variety of bird species, all while enjoying the delightful autumn weather.
Discover the beauty of Algarve’s roads as you ride along the Atlantic Ocean. Admire the dramatic cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages that dot the coastline. With its diverse terrain and cyclist-friendly infrastructure, Algarve offers an unforgettable autumn cycling adventure for riders of all levels.
Lake Constance is a cyclist’s paradise. Accessible and central to Europe, it is very well equipped with cycling infrastructure. The towns and villages around Lake Constance offer plenty of cycling-friendly amenities and services. You’ll find bike rental shops, repair facilities, and accommodations that cater specifically to cyclists such as having dedicated, secure bike parking facilities, with recharging facilities for E-Bikes. In autumn, the banks of the vineyards turn orange and also host end-of-harvest celebrations while the mountains in the background are covered in the first snow.
Along your cycling journey, you’ll encounter charming towns and villages, historic castles, and fascinating museums. You can take breaks to explore these cultural gems, taste local culinary delights, and learn about the rich heritage of the region.
One of the highlights of cycling at Lake Constance is the famous Circumference Route, which spans approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles) around the lake. This route takes you through Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, allowing you to experience the unique cultures and landscapes of each country. The Circumference Route is well-marked and offers plenty of rest stops, accommodation options, and attractions along the way. The well-maintained cycling paths and the crisp autumn air make for an unforgettable experience.
Choose the island of Crete in Greece for a unique cycling destination. Even during the autumn season, when the weather starts to cool down in other parts of Europe, Crete maintains a mild and enjoyable temperature. This makes it perfect for cycling, allowing you to explore the island without being overly affected by extreme heat or cold.
Additionally, the infrastructure for cycling in Crete is well-developed, with cycling paths and routes that cater to riders of all skill levels. This makes it easy and safe to navigate the island by bike, whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a leisurely rider.
Explore the beauty of Crete as you cycle along its pristine shores. Crete’s coastal beauty is truly captivating as you pedal along the pristine shores, you’ll be treated to stunning views of turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages. The routes on the coast offer a mix of flat stretches and rolling hills, providing a delightful cycling experience for riders of all levels.
Moreover, Crete is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. And we have not talk about the food yet… One of the island’s best traditional dishes in Crete is ‘Dakos’ (also known as ‘ntakos’ or ‘koukouvagia’). It is a simple yet delicious Cretan dish that consists of a barley rusk topped with ripe tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, extra virgin olive oil, oregano, and sometimes olives or capers. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and authentic taste of Crete. In all, Crete’s breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, and the island’s unique charm creates an unforgettable atmosphere for your cycling adventure.
Valencia, located on Spain’s eastern coast, offers a perfect blend of vibrant city life and natural beauty. Embark on a cycling adventure through the Albufera Natural Park, a wetland sanctuary brimming with diverse flora and fauna. The park’s close proximity to the vibrant city of Valencia makes it easily accessible for cyclists. You can embark on a cycling adventure in the park and then enjoy the city’s attractions and amenities.
Pedal through rice fields, explore tranquil lagoons. Albufera Natural Park is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also steeped in cultural heritage. The region is known for its rice cultivation, and you can explore traditional rice fields and learn about the cultivation process. Additionally, you can visit the nearby fishing village of El Palmar, where you can sample delicious local cuisine, including the famous Valencian paella. This makes it an ideal destination for cycling during the autumn months, allowing you to enjoy the park’s beauty without being overly affected by extreme heat or cold.
Valencia offers a mix of cultural and culinary delights, allowing you to immerse yourself in Spanish culture after a day of cycling in the natural park. Discover Valencia’s architectural marvels as you cycle through its vibrant streets. Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, explore the historic city center with its impressive Gothic and modernist buildings, and indulge in the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Valencia’s sunny weather and cyclist-friendly infrastructure make it an ideal destination for autumn cycling adventures.
These top 10 autumn cycling destinations offer a diverse range of landscapes, from coastal roads and old villages to mountains and natural parks. Whether you seek thrilling ascents, scenic coastal routes, or a tranquil countryside escape, these destinations promise unforgettable adventures for cyclists of all levels.
Make your choice, book your bike on ListNRide, pick it up directly at your destination, embrace the beauty of autumn, and embark on a remarkable journey through these cycling paradises.
Last but not least, all our rentals in the European Economic Area are covered by our insurance partner Laka. So not only do you not have to organize anything, but you’re also covered. Enjoy your ride with ListNRide!
