1. Tenerife, Spain

Best for warm-weather winter training, volcanic climbs and Europe’s most reliable December sunshine.

Spectacular views of the Masca Valley in Tenerief (photo credit: Claude Léger)

Why cycle in December

If you’re after warm weather and big climbs while Europe cools down, cycling in Tenerife in December should be on your wish list! December sits in the island’s sweet spot – daytime temperatures hover between 19 and 24°C, there’s limited rain, and the trade winds are usually calm. The result is near-perfect riding conditions for everything from coastal loops to high-altitude training on Mount Teide.

This volcanic island is a cyclist’s playground, rising from sea level to over 2,300 metres on long, steady gradients and smooth roads. Teide is the headline act – a 40-kilometre-plus climb that attracts pro teams each winter – but the real magic lies in Tenerife’s variety.

Ride through the moonlike landscape of Teide National Park one day, then tackle the twisting roads of Masca and the Teno lighthouse the next, or spin through the lush forests of the Anaga Mountains in the north. Riders should pack essentials like cycling gloves, cycling cleats, a comfortable bike saddle and a bicycle helmet to manage the shift between coastal warmth and cooler high-altitude air.

December is also a great time for training camps. With reliable weather and good infrastructure, it’s easy to rack up serious mileage while still enjoying beachside cafés, dramatic Atlantic views and post-ride swims.

Other times to consider

Tenerife is rideable year-round, but conditions shift subtly across the seasons. November to February bring mild temperatures, though higher roads can be cold or cloud-covered. March to May are typically dry and bright, ideal if you prefer cooler mornings.

Summer (June to August) is hot, particularly in the south, and best suited to early starts or high-altitude riding.

If you’re seeking calm air, warm seas and quiet roads, November through January is arguably the island’s best window – a true winter-sun escape for cyclists.

More information

• Cycling Tenerife: your ultimate guide, for detailed route info, climbs and planning essentials.
• The best places to stay in Tenerife (for cyclists), to help you choose the right base for riding.
• 15 tips for awesome Tenerife cycling holidays, packed with practical suggestions to make your trip smoother.

2. Almeria, Spain

Best for quiet winter roads, desert landscapes and big, steady climbs under bright skies.

Descent towards Antas, Almeria, Spain

Why cycle in December

Cycling in Almeria in December offers a welcome dose of warmth and daylight at a time when much of Europe feels cold and grey. It’s a relaxed destination where cycle paths, traffic-light desert roads, and scenic cycle routes create ideal conditions for solo or flexible group cycling trips.

Daytime highs often sit in double digits, and on sunnier days you may see temperatures climbing towards the mid-teens. Rain is possible, but totals remain low, especially for winter, and Almeria still enjoys some of the highest sunshine levels in Europe.

On the bike, the experience is relaxed and rewarding. The roads are smooth and quiet, and the variety of terrain is a real draw: coastal loops along the Mediterranean, desert scenery in Tabernas and long, steady climbs into the Sierra de los Filabres.

This is one of the driest parts of Spain, so even winter rides feel bright and airy. December also brings a festive atmosphere to coastal towns, with Christmas lights, markets and even a historical parade on 26 December, adding colour to evenings off the bike.

Other times to consider

January and February stay mild by European standards and can be good months if you are after quiet roads and crisp, sunny days. Early spring (March and April) brings longer daylight hours and predictable conditions that suit long rides inland.

May and June deliver warm, stable weather without the intensity of high summer. July and August are best avoided for cycling inland, as temperatures can soar and coastal areas get busy.

Autumn offers another reliable window. September and October often sit around or above twenty degrees, and even November stays rideable, with only a small rise in rainfall.

More information

• Cycling Almeria, Andalucia: your ultimate guide, covering routes, climbs and everything you need to plan a trip.
• 15 essential tips for cycling Almeria, Andalucia, Spain, with practical information for riding in this dry, remote region.
• Where to go for the best cycling in Spain? Our pick of 9 of the best regions, for comparing Almeria with other top Spanish destinations.

3. Lakes and Volcanoes region, Chile

Best for summer riding among snow-capped peaks, deep blue lakes and long, scenic days.

View of Lake Llanquihue and Osorno Volcano, Chile (photo credit: Amity Tours)

Why cycle in December

December is a wonderful month to experience Chile’s Lakes and Volcanoes region by bike. It marks the start of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, bringing warm, settled weather and long daylight hours.

Daytime temperatures usually sit between 15 and 22°C, which makes it ideal for big days out in the mountains or relaxed lakeside loops.

The scenery is at its vibrant best. Snow-capped volcanoes rise above deep blue lakes, forests are lush and green, and rural roads feel calm. With summer underway, high-altitude routes are more accessible and post-ride swims in the lakes become part of the daily rhythm.

The region’s hospitality adds to the experience, from small towns with German-influenced architecture to Mapuche communities offering a warm welcome.

Other times to consider

Late spring (November) is a good alternative to cycling in December, when the forests look fresh, and the volcano peaks are still dusted with snow. Early autumn (March and April) brings cooler temperatures and golden colours across the valleys, with calm conditions that suit long, steady days on the bike.

Winter (May to August) is best avoided for cycling. Snow, rain and cold temperatures make many routes inaccessible, especially at altitude. Riders visiting during this period may prefer to focus on hiking or skiing instead.

More information

• How to plan a Chile cycling tour, a practical overview for organising routes, logistics and timing.
• Cycling in Chile: the inside guide, with detailed insight into regions, terrain and what to expect.
• Guide to cycling the Carretera Austral in Patagonia, for an in-depth look at Chile’s most iconic long-distance ride.

4. Rocha, Uruguay

Best for laid-back coastal touring, warm beaches and crowd-free cycling.

A deserted beach in Rocha, Uruguay (photo credit: Louisa Woolf)

Why cycle in December

December is the start of the Uruguayan summer, so it tends to be a lovely time to explore Rocha and neighbouring Maldonado by bike. Warm, humid days sit between 17 and 27°C, and the Atlantic breeze helps keep coastal rides comfortable.

This is the peak holiday season, but most visitors head straight for popular spots such as Punta del Este. That means Rocha’s roads and beaches stay pretty quiet, even in the busiest weeks.

The atmosphere is lively without feeling hectic. Maldonado’s resorts host concerts, art fairs and summer events, while Rocha offers a calmer experience with vast beaches and relaxed seaside towns. It is a great month for slow, scenic riding, with long daylight hours for exploring and plenty of places to stop for a swim or a cold drink.

Other times to consider

January and February offer the same warm weather but will be livelier, particularly around Punta del Este.

If you prefer a quieter feel, early March is a lovely period to visit. The sea stays warm, days are still sunny, and traffic drops noticeably once local holidays end. Some cafés and galleries may begin closing for the season, so plan ahead if you want to explore the cultural side of Maldonado.

Outside these months, spring and autumn can be pleasant but less predictable, with cooler temperatures and fewer services open along the coast.

More information

• Cycling Rocha, for quiet coastal roads, big beaches and relaxed riding.
• Cycling Maldonado, covering Punta del Este, scenic loops and summer highlights.
• Cycling in Uruguay: the inside guide, with country-wide tips, routes and practical tips.

5. Vietnam

Best for cool-season cycling through diverse landscapes, vibrant culture and coast-to-mountain adventures.

Street scene with lanterns (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)

Why cycle in December

Vietnam is one of Asia’s most captivating countries to explore by bike – a place where every kilometre brings new sights, sounds and flavours. December sits in the middle of the cooler season that typically runs from October to April, making it a great time to ride.

Conditions do vary across the country – the north can feel crisp and cool in the mornings, while the south stays warm and tropical – so pack for variety and be ready for everything from misty mountain air to coastal sunshine.

Cycling in Vietnam gives you a front-row seat to the country’s incredible diversity, from coastal cycle paths to mountain passes. You’ll roll past rice paddies, fishing villages and karst peaks; climb winding passes like Hai Van; and stop for street-side pho or banh mi.

The contrasts between regions are huge: Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter feels a world away from the palm-fringed beaches near Nha Trang or the quiet backroads of the Mekong Delta.

Other times to consider

Vietnam can be cycled year-round, but it depends exactly which part of this long country you’re looking to visit.

March and April bring clear skies across most regions, while May to September is the wet season, especially in the north and central coast. Typhoons can affect the central region in late summer and early autumn.

If you prefer lush landscapes, spring (March to May) brings vibrant greenery, while winter (December to February) sees cooler, mistier mornings in the north but warm sunshine in the south.

More information

• Cycling in Vietnam: the inside guide, for an overview of routes, regions and what to expect on the road.
• 12 must-read tips for planning a cycling tour in Vietnam, packed with practical tips to help your trip run smoothly.
• Guide to cycling Vietnam to Cambodia, detailing this spectacular cross-border adventure.

6. The Seychelles

Best for tropical December escapes, lush island climbs and ocean-side riding between beach days.

Views from the Constance Ephelia (photo credit: John Maskell)

Why cycle in December

December is a warm, tropical month in the Seychelles, with daytime temperatures between 25 and 32 °C and sea temperatures close to 30 °C.

The northwest trade wind season brings humid conditions and occasional downpours, but showers are usually short and refreshing, clearing quickly to reveal bright skies. If you are escaping winter in the UK, the contrast feels glorious.

On the bike, you can expect quiet roads once you leave the busier coastal strips, lush rainforest scenery and rewarding climbs over Mahé’s central ridge. The roads are in pretty good condition, and the views from the high passes are superb.

Other times to consider

April, May, October and November sit between the seasonal trade winds and tend to offer calmer, drier conditions that suit long rides and beach time. These months are often considered the most comfortable for active holidays.

January is the wettest month, so you may see heavier showers, though temperatures stay warm. From June to September, the southeast trade winds bring cooler, breezier weather. This can be pleasant for cycling but the seas can be choppier and some beaches less suitable for swimming.

More information

• Cycling Seychelles: your ultimate guide, covering routes, climbs and what to expect on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.
• Must-read tips for cycling in the Seychelles, with essential information on terrain, weather and logistics.

7. Geelong and Surf Coast, Australia

Best for coastal rides, iconic Great Ocean Road scenery and lively cycling events.

Great Ocean Road heading towards Aireys Inlet from Lorne (photo credit: Chris Grabyn)

Why cycle in December

From December through May, Geelong and the Surf Coast enjoy warm, settled weather with generally lighter winds – ideal for long days on the bike.

December marks the start of Australia’s summer, bringing extended daylight, consistent temperatures, and lively coastal towns without the stifling heat that can arrive in January and February. It’s a fantastic month for riding iconic routes like the Great Ocean Road or tackling short, sharp climbs around Bells Beach and Anglesea. Visitors often appreciate mechanical support, friendly local communities, and easy bike hire to explore the coastline

December also coincides with one of Victoria’s biggest cycling festivals: the Great Victorian Bike Ride. This supported, multi-day, non-competitive cycling adventure typically runs in late November into early December, with rolling routes, festival vibes, and daily distances around 70 kilometres.

Pair that with Geelong’s bayfront riding, Bellarine Peninsula loops, and Surf Coast scenery, and you have a standout destination.

Other times to consider

March to May offer similarly excellent riding, with calmer winds and milder temperatures.

Late January or early February can be a highlight if you want to see the pros – the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and its associated events take place then – but expect heat spikes above forty degrees.

Winter (June to August) is cooler and windier but still rideable.

More information

• Cycling Geelong and the Surf Coast, for routes, climbs and expert local insight into this coastal cycling hotspot.
• Cycling Victoria, Australia, with a wider look at the state’s best riding regions.
• Cycling Australia, your gateway to exploring top cycling destinations across the country.

What’s next?

Not sold on cycling December and looking for other ideas? Don’t miss:

• 6 best places to go cycling in September, for late-summer inspiration and great shoulder-season riding.
• 8 best places to go cycling in October, with options ranging from warm-weather escapes to crisp autumn loops.
• Cycling holidays in Autumn, a round-up of the season’s best routes, colours and conditions.
• Spring cycling holidays, perfect if you’re planning ahead for long, bright days on the bike.
• Winter cycling holidays, packed with ideas for sunny, reliable riding when Europe turns cold.
• 7 must-visit destinations for Christmas cycling holidays + New Year cycling breaks, for more December cycling holidays during the festive season.
• Cycling holidays in Summer, featuring the best warm-weather destinations for big, sunny days.

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.