In many places in the Northern Hemisphere – particularly Europe – things tend to shut down in winter. Christmas and New Year holidays come around and people go away or just seem to hibernate. When January swings around and patterns of work and routine begin to drift back into everyday lives, it’s easy to get bogged down in malaise, compounded by the cold weather, grey skies, and (for all those UK and Ireland friends reading) lots of rain.
That’s the bad news.
The good news is that there are still places – even if you live in the Northern Hemisphere during the January months – that are sunny, more or less, all year round. These pockets of light, Vitamin D-rich goodness are oases where you can get out to to blow off the cobwebs of a slow start to the new year and rejuvenate your mind and body on a sandy beach.
The other good news is that the fantastic partners of the Cycle Cities network offer the best bicycle tours that money can buy. Through a bike tour, you can get a great overview of the city with a passionate local guide and cover ground you could – and would – never have done by your own, or on your own two feet.
Here are our Top 3 destinations for a cycling holiday this winter. It features some of the sunniest places on the map, all where quality bike tours are available. So what are you waiting for? Get out from under that blanket, and your bum off the seat of that couch and onto the seat of a bike! Enjoy.
3. ROME, ITALY
Unlock the secrets of one of the most powerful, successful, and influential empires of the world – and feel the sun on your face as you do so! With 2,473 hours of sunshine a year, Rome is one of the sunshine capitals in the world – but its rich and intriguing history means it’s far from a one-dimensional experience. Get in touch with the team at Rome in a Day Tours to explore from the seat of a bike!
2. ATHENS, GREECE
While boasting almost 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and being an incredibly popular tourist destination, Athens isn’t just for the heliophiles – it’s the heart of one of the oldest and most influential civilizations ever to have graced the planet. The city is still full of remnants and tributes to a way of life that has captured hearts and ignited imaginations for centuries, with the Acropolis and the Parthenon still standing in reverence for the benefit of the excited traveller. Sound interesting? Take a tour with our partners Athens By Bike and soak up the history!
- MALAGA, SPAIN
At the top of our list here is Malaga, located on Spain’s famed Costa del Sol and a city that claims it’s fair share of rays, with 2,815 hours of sun a year. And, with incredible attractions like Alcazaba – a Medieval Moorish palace with sea views and surrounded by countryside, and the Malaga Cathedral – you’ll want to stay all winter! For the best quality bike tour in Malaga, head to Malaga Bike Tours to discover the range of two-wheeled experiences they have to offer. Kay and the rest of the team will make sure Malaga will be a place you won’t forget!
