8 of the best coolcation cycling tours

Our pick of the best cycling tours for a coolcation

1. Islandhopping Netherlands Premium with Boat Bike Tours

Best for riders who want cool coastal cycling, island-hopping and the novelty of travelling aboard a four-masted sailing ship.

Cycling past resting cyclists in Friesland

Key information

Route: An eight-day guided sail-and-bike tour from Enkhuizen, combining five days of cycling with journeys across the IJsselmeer and Wadden Sea.

Terrain: Very flat, with mostly cycle paths and quiet roads, plus some compact gravel.

Difficulty: Easy overall. Advertised daily route options are roughly 28 to 58 kilometres.

Highlights: The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wadden Sea, Texel and Terschelling, beaches and dunes, Friesland’s lakes and waterways, historic harbour towns, wildlife and the Eise Eisinga Planetarium.

Logistics: Guided tour aboard the 64-metre, four-masted Leafde fan Fryslân. The ship acts as a moving hotel, so your luggage stays aboard while you cycle.

What makes this a coolcation: The Wadden Sea’s exposed coastal and island setting makes this a natural summer coolcation. On our August 2026 trip, temperatures were mostly around 20°C, giving us comfortable conditions for riding, although the weather could change quickly between sunshine, wind and rain. Summer also brings long days for cycling and exploring.

The riding

The Wadden Sea offers a very different kind of summer cycling holiday. Instead of chasing altitude to find cooler temperatures, this trip heads for the Dutch coast and islands, where North Sea breezes and an open maritime landscape provide an escape from the heat further south.

The cycling itself is wonderfully straightforward. Routes follow the Netherlands’ excellent network of cycle paths and quiet roads, passing canals, dikes, sheep fields, beaches and dune-covered islands. There is almost no climbing, but that doesn’t necessarily mean effortless riding. On exposed sections, the wind is very much the hill.

Over the course of the week, the route links places including Texel, Terschelling, Harlingen, Franeker, Makkum and Stavoren. There is plenty to stop for along the way too, from cheese farms and old trading towns to beaches, wildlife reserves and the extraordinary Eise Eisinga Planetarium.

What makes the journey particularly memorable is the combination of bike and boat. While you explore on two wheels, the Leafde fan Fryslân moves between harbours. At the end of the ride, you return to the same cabin, crew and dinner table. It makes island-hopping remarkably simple and means there’s no need to pack your bags each morning or organise ferries between overnight stops.

What we love

We joined this tour ourselves in August 2026, and the combination of comfortable cycling temperatures and long days outside worked brilliantly. Temperatures during our departure were mostly around 20°C, although we also experienced strong wind, driving rain and bright sunshine. It’s a good reminder that a North Sea coolcation means packing for changeable weather rather than guaranteed sun.

We also loved how much the ship added to the experience. Boat Bike Tours trip isn’t simply a cycling itinerary with accommodation attached. Sailing between islands, watching the tidal landscape from deck and returning to the same cabin each evening made travelling by water an important part of the holiday.

The result is a trip that feels adventurous without demanding huge mileage or major climbs.

What else they offer

Boat Bike Tours specialises in holidays that combine cycling with travelling and staying aboard a boat. Alongside this guided premium itinerary, they offer an independent Wadden Sea option as well as other bike-and-boat trips in the Netherlands and elsewhere in Europe.

Options range from classic Dutch cycling trips and tulip tours to island-hopping itineraries and family-focused holidays, so it’s worth looking carefully at the route, ship and guided or independent format when choosing between them.

More information

• Sail and bike tours: our Netherlands island-hopping itinerary + tips, sharing our first-hand experience aboard the Leafde fan Fryslân (coming soon!)
• 5 of the best boat and bike tours in the Netherlands (+ how to pick the one for you), for a comparison of several Boat Bike Tours itineraries in the Netherlands.
• Boat Bike Tours’ website, for the latest Islandhopping Netherlands Premium dates, itinerary, cabin options and prices.

2. The Grand Tour of Bern with Eurotrek

Best for Swiss postcard scenery without tackling epic mountain passes.

Cycling through Gantrisch Nature Park on the Sagenroute with forested scenery (photo credit: Bern Welcome)

Key information

Route: A five-day circular self-guided tour from Bern through the Emmental Valley, Bernese Oberland, Gantrisch Nature Park and Murten before returning to the Swiss capital.

Terrain: Mostly quiet paved roads with some easy unpaved sections, rolling countryside and several steady climbs through the Alpine foothills.

Difficulty: Moderate. Daily rides range from 44 to 75 kilometres, with between 330 and 1,060 metres of climbing.

Highlights: Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, the Emmental Valley, Thun, Gantrisch Nature Park, Murten and panoramic views of the Bernese Oberland.

Logistics: Self-guided tour with accommodation, breakfast, luggage transfers, GPS navigation, route notes and service hotline included.

What makes this a coolcation: Bern combines river valleys, lakes and pre-Alpine terrain, giving cyclists plenty of options away from Europe’s hotter summer destinations. The main cycling season runs from May to October, with May, June, September and October often offering the most comfortable riding conditions. In high summer, a post-ride dip in the Aare is a very Bernese way to cool off.

The riding

This circular tour showcases a different side of Switzerland. Rather than chasing the country’s biggest mountain passes, it explores the rolling landscapes surrounding Bern.

The route heads first into the Emmental Valley before continuing towards Thun, where the snow-capped peaks of the Bernese Oberland provide an epic backdrop. From there, you ride through the forests and meadows of Gantrisch Nature Park before crossing into French-speaking Switzerland and reaching the medieval lakeside town of Murten. The final day returns to Bern via the peaceful Frienisberg plateau, completing a wonderfully varied loop.

Daily distances are fairly modest, but there are enough climbs to keep things interesting, particularly on a standard touring bike. Fortunately, luggage transfers are included throughout. You can enjoy the changing scenery without carrying heavy bags. The largely traffic-free roads also make it easy to appreciate the Swiss countryside

What we love

Eurotrek’s tour packs a huge amount of variety into just five days. From historic cities and mountain viewpoints to rolling farmland and peaceful nature parks, every day feels different while still maintaining a comfortable pace that’s perfect for sightseeing.

We also like that it offers a cooler alternative to many summer cycling destinations. Even during the warmer months, the Alpine foothills provide refreshing riding conditions, making it an excellent coolcation for cyclists who’d rather avoid extreme heat.

What else they offer

Eurotrek specialises in self-guided active holidays across Switzerland and Europe, with cycling, mountain biking, bike-and-boat trips, hiking and trail running all available. Every itinerary is designed to let you travel independently while they take care of the logistics, including route planning, accommodation and, on most tours, luggage transfers, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the journey.

More information

• Cycling Bern, our guide to cycling tours around the region.
• Cycling Switzerland and Italy in a day, a look at the Bernina Pass cycling route.
• Eurotrek’s website, with details on booking The Grand Tour of Bern and other tours.

3. Camino del Norte Cycling Holiday with S-Cape Travel

Best for cool coastal riding with outstanding food and a taste of the Camino.

Cycling the Camino del Norte

Key information

Route: A four-day self-guided ride following a section of the Camino del Norte from Nueva de Llanes to Gijón along Spain’s Green Coast.

Terrain: Mostly quiet paved roads with rolling hills, coastal roads and a handful of short, steeper climbs.

Difficulty: Moderate. Daily rides of 29 to 37 kilometres with between 240 and 420 metres of climbing.

Highlights: Ribadesella, dinosaur footprints, the cider town of Villaviciosa, Tazones, dramatic Atlantic coastline and the seafront finish in Gijón.

Logistics: Self-guided tour with accommodation, breakfast, luggage transfers, digital navigation and 24-hour support included.

What makes this a coolcation: Northern Spain’s Atlantic influence keeps summer conditions much milder than in many other parts of Spain. July and August average around 23°C, with only occasional hotter days, while April to October generally offers mild cycling weather. The trade-off is more changeable conditions, with rain, mist and sunshine all possible in the same day.

The riding

If you’re looking for Spanish sunshine without the sweltering temperatures, Asturias is hard to beat. This short self-guided tour follows part of the Camino del Norte, weaving along Spain’s Atlantic coastline through fishing villages, quiet country roads and green hills that feel a world away from the country’s hotter southern regions.

The daily distances are deliberately short, leaving plenty of time to stop and explore. Although there are a few punchy climbs, they’re balanced by long coastal stretches and flowing descents.

The route combines the atmosphere of the Camino with the freedom of a cycling holiday, while luggage transfers mean you only need to carry the essentials. Add in excellent local food, artisan cheeses and Asturias’ famous natural cider, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a relaxed but memorable coolcation.

What we love

S-Cape Travel’s tour showcases a side of northern Spain that often gets overlooked in favour of the Mediterranean. The Atlantic climate keeps temperatures comfortable throughout the cycling season, while the green landscapes, dramatic coastline and quieter roads create a completely different side of Spain.

We also love how much variety is packed into just a few days. Coastal scenery, pilgrimage history, fascinating geology and fantastic local food all combine to make this a brilliant short break that never feels rushed.

What else they offer

S-Cape Travel specialises in self-guided cycling and walking holidays across Europe, with routes ranging from family-friendly adventures and Camino de Santiago itineraries to budget trips and e-bike tours. Every route is designed by local experts, with carefully chosen accommodation, luggage transfers and local support included, so you can explore at your own pace without worrying about the logistics.

More information

• Cycling northern Spain, with tips on planning your own break in this region.
• How to pick the best cycling holiday in Spain, including a look at all of the regional options.
• S-Cape Travel’s website, with more details on the Camino del Norte tour.

4. Julian Alps with HourAway

Best for alpine scenery without the extreme gradients of the highest mountain ranges.

Cycling towards Kranjska Gora with an amazing backdrop (photo credit: HourAway)

Key information

Route: A six-day circular self-guided tour from Bled, taking in Kranjska Gora, the Soča Valley, Bohinj and the beautiful Julian Alps.

Terrain: Smooth mountain roads, dedicated cycle paths and alpine passes, with a mixture of steady climbs and enjoyable descents.

Difficulty: Moderate. Daily rides range from 35 to 46 kilometres with between 450 and 680 metres of climbing. Suitable for reasonably fit cyclists, with e-bikes available.

Highlights: Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, the emerald Soča River, Predil Pass, Kobarid, Tolmin and Triglav National Park.

Logistics: Self-guided tour with accommodation, breakfast, luggage transfers, GPS navigation and bike or e-bike hire included.

What makes this a coolcation: The Julian Alps have an Alpine climate, with May, June and September offering particularly pleasant conditions for cycling. These months also bring cooler mountain air, lush valleys and fewer visitors than peak summer. July and August can still get hot, especially around midday, so this is strongest as a late-spring or early-autumn coolcation.

The riding

Slovenia has quietly become one of Europe’s most exciting cycling destinations. This tour is an excellent introduction to everything that makes the Julian Alps so special. Over six days you’ll ride between crystal-clear lakes, towering limestone peaks and emerald rivers, linking many of the country’s best-known sights with quieter roads that most visitors never discover.

The combination of mountain lakes, wooded valleys and flower-strewn meadows gives the route a particularly refreshing feel during the warmer months.

Although there are plenty of mountain views, this isn’t a trip built around relentlessly chasing famous climbs. Instead, the route balances sensible daily distances with fantastic scenery. Highlights include crossing briefly into Italy, following the Soča River through historic towns and returning to Bled via the shores of Lake Bohinj on one of Slovenia’s newest cycling paths.

For a summer coolcation, the Julian Alps make a strong case. Around Kranjska Gora, nearby Rateče averages 17.3°C in July, compared with 19.8°C in Bourg-Saint-Maurice in the French Alps, despite the two weather stations sitting at almost identical elevations. Add higher mountain roads, forested valleys, rivers and lakes, and there are plenty of ways to escape the heat while still enjoying proper Alpine riding.

What we love

This tour packs an incredible amount of variety into less than a week. One day you’re climbing into the mountains, the next you’re following an emerald river through historic villages before relaxing beside one of Slovenia’s famous lakes. It never feels repetitive, despite covering a relatively compact area.

We also like how HourAway has made the route work well for a broad range of cyclists. Daily distances are sensible, luggage is transferred for you and e-bikes are available, making it much easier to focus on the scenery than the kilometres.

What else they offer

HourAway offers guided and self-guided cycling holidays across Slovenia, from challenging alpine road rides and gravel bikepacking routes to relaxed e-bike tours and multi-day journeys to the Adriatic coast. Every trip can be tailored to suit your riding style, with local expertise, flexible itineraries and personalised support helping you discover Slovenia beyond the obvious tourist highlights.

More information

• Cycling Julian Alps, a detailed look at cycling holidays in this part of Slovenia, plus an exclusive 10% discount on any service booked direct with HourAway.
• Cycling Ljubljana (and surrounds), with tips on staying in and around the capital city for a cycling break.
• HourAway’s website for booking this and other tours in Slovenia.

5. Portugal Wild Coast with Portugal Nature Trails

Best for mild winter sunshine and impressive coastal riding.

Crossing a narrow bridge while cycling from the Karst Country to the sea (photo credit: Portugal Nature Trails)

Key information

Route: A seven-day self-guided coastal journey from Vale das Éguas to Sagres, following Portugal’s Atlantic coastline through the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park.

Terrain: A mixture of paved roads, gravel tracks and dirt trails, with mostly gentle riding and occasional short, steep climbs.

Difficulty: Moderate. Daily rides range from 40 to 55 kilometres with between 300 and 600 metres of climbing.

Highlights: Atlantic cliff-top riding, Cape São Vicente, traditional fishing villages, pine and cork forests, sandy beaches and outstanding seafood.

Logistics: Self-guided tour with accommodation, breakfasts, luggage transfers, airport transfers, GPS navigation, welcome briefing and local support included.

What makes this a coolcation: Portugal might not be the first place that comes to mind for a coolcation, but the Wild Coast’s Atlantic setting helps moderate conditions compared with hotter inland areas. Spring and autumn are particularly good for comfortable riding here, while winter can also remain mild. This is therefore more of a shoulder-season or winter coolcation than a peak-summer escape.

The riding

Portugal’s Wild Coast proves that a coolcation doesn’t always have to mean heading north. Thanks to the cooling Atlantic breeze, this stretch of coastline offers much more comfortable riding than many inland parts of southern Europe, even when temperatures elsewhere are soaring.

The route follows one of Portugal’s most beautiful coastlines, linking dramatic sea cliffs, quiet beaches, pine forests and whitewashed fishing villages. Daily distances are kept relatively short, giving you plenty of time to stop for fresh seafood, wander through sleepy villages or simply admire the endless ocean views. Riders can stick to the mixed-surface route or opt for an entirely paved alternative if preferred.

Although the scenery steals the show, it’s the relaxed pace that really makes this tour special. One moment you’re pedalling along rugged coastal cliffs, the next you’re cooling off beside a beach or enjoying lunch in a family-run restaurant overlooking the Atlantic. It’s an ideal reminder that memorable cycling holidays don’t always have to involve huge mountain passes or epic daily distances.

The Atlantic setting makes this one of the more appealing coastal regions for riders who want sunshine without the intense conditions found in hotter summer hotspots.

What we love

The Atlantic is the star of the show here. Not only does it provide some wonderful scenery throughout the week, but it also helps keep temperatures much more comfortable than many inland cycling destinations during the warmer months, making this an excellent option for a summer escape.

We also love how flexible this Portugal Nature Trails tour is. The mixture of road and gravel keeps things interesting, but riders who prefer to stay on asphalt can do exactly that, making it suitable for a wide range of bikes and riding styles.

What else they offer

Portugal Nature Trails has been creating guided and self-guided cycling holidays across Portugal since 2004, with routes covering everything from the Atlantic coast and Douro Valley to Madeira and the Azores. Whether you prefer road cycling, gravel, mountain biking or a leisurely touring holiday, trips can be tailored to suit your experience level, with local support available throughout.

More information

• Self-guided bike tours in Portugal, with a look at some of the best bike routes and how to plan your own trip.
• Cycling Portugal, our hub page for the country with more guides to help you.
• Portugal Nature Trails’ website, including details of this and other tours.

6. Mizen to Malin with Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours

Best for riders who love ticking off legendary coast-to-coast challenges.

Cycling Mizmal (photo credit: Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours)

Key information

Route: A seven-day supported ride from Mizen Head to Malin Head, following some of the finest sections of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Terrain: Quiet asphalt roads with rolling countryside, mountain passes, rugged coastline and plenty of climbing.

Difficulty: Challenging. Around 925 kilometres over seven riding days, with several rides exceeding 130 kilometres.

Highlights: Mizen Head, the Gap of Dunloe, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Killary Fjord, Glenveagh National Park and the finish at Malin Head.

Logistics: Fully supported tour with accommodation, breakfast and lunch, luggage transfers, GPX files, mechanical support, support van and airport transfers at the end included.

What makes this a coolcation: Ireland’s west coast is a natural choice for riders who would rather tackle long summer days without guaranteed heat. May to September are generally the driest and brightest months, but Atlantic weather remains changeable, with sunshine, wind and rain all possible. For a demanding ride like MizMal, that makes it a very different proposition to cycling through southern Europe in midsummer.

The riding

Ireland’s Atlantic coast was made for riders who enjoy big days in the saddle without baking in the heat. This seven-day journey follows a carefully designed route from the island’s southernmost point to its northernmost, linking many of the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way while deliberately favouring quieter roads over the busiest tourist routes.

Every day has its own character. You’ll climb the Caha Pass and the Gap of Dunloe on the opening day, ride past the Cliffs of Moher and across the remarkable limestone landscape of the Burren, tackle the Sheeffry Pass in County Mayo and finish with the famous climb of Mamore Gap before rolling into windswept Malin Head. Along the way you’ll also experience lively towns such as Killarney, Galway, Westport and Donegal, each offering a warm Irish welcome after a long day on the bike.

Although this is unquestionably a demanding tour, Ireland’s cooler maritime climate can make these long days feel less punishing than covering similar distances in southern Europe during summer. Fresh Atlantic breezes, ever-changing skies and moderate temperatures mean you can concentrate on the riding, while the fully supported format lets you enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics or carrying luggage.

What we love

Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours‘ bike holiday feels like a genuine journey rather than a collection of individual rides. Starting at one end of the country and finishing at the other gives every day a real sense of purpose, while the changing landscapes constantly reward your efforts.

Ireland is also an excellent coolcation destination for ambitious cyclists. Even when the weather throws in a shower, the cooler conditions make long days in the saddle much more comfortable than they would be in hotter climates, especially when you’re covering well over 100 kilometres a day.

What else they offer

Wild Atlantic Cycling specialises in fully supported long-distance road cycling adventures across the UK and Europe. Alongside Mizen to Malin, their portfolio includes iconic end-to-end rides such as John O’Groats to Land’s End, Portugal’s N2, London to Barcelona, the NC500, the Pyrenees and the Balkans. Every route is designed by experienced cyclists who prioritise quiet roads, memorable scenery and seamless support, allowing riders to focus entirely on the challenge ahead.

More information

• Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way + MizMal, with tips on the route and how to tackle it.
• 15 best cycling holidays in the UK and Ireland, including some iconic routes.
• Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours’ website, with details on how to book their MizMal tour.

7. Faroe Islands with support from Rent A Bike Faroes

Best for riders looking to escape the crowds in one of Europe’s wildest island landscapes.

Heading to Múlafossur from Sørvágur (photo credit: Christoph Pfülb via Bikepacking Iceland)

Key information

Route: A flexible multi-day island-hopping itinerary through the Faroe Islands, combining paved roads, ferries and connections between villages and islands.

Terrain: Smooth paved roads with constant climbs, exposed coastal riding, mountain passes and tunnels linking the islands.

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. Daily distances are relatively short, but steep gradients, strong winds and rapidly changing weather make the riding demanding.

Highlights: Towering sea cliffs, turf-roofed villages, deep fjords, outstanding viewpoints, ferry crossings and some of the quietest roads in the North Atlantic.

Logistics: Independent cycling is possible, while Rent A Bike Faroes offers bike hire, guided rides, private tours, repairs and practical cycling support. Careful planning is needed around ferries, buses and tunnels, particularly if you are building a multi-day itinerary.

What makes this a coolcation: The Faroe Islands offer genuinely cool summer riding, with average summer temperatures around 13°C. Late May to early September brings milder conditions and long daylight hours, although North Atlantic weather remains highly changeable and wind can have as much impact on a ride as the hills.

The riding

If you’re looking to escape the summer heat, it doesn’t get much more refreshing than the Faroe Islands. The islands sit between Iceland, Scotland and Norway. They offer cool temperatures, wonderfully quiet roads and scenery that feels unlike anywhere else in Europe.

The riding is all on smooth asphalt, but don’t mistake that for easy. Short distances often hide steep climbs, while strong Atlantic winds and ever-changing weather keep every day interesting. Ferries and tunnels add another layer of adventure, making each ride feel like a genuine journey between islands rather than simply following a road from A to B.

Every climb reveals another unforgettable view. With dramatic landscapes, welcoming communities and long daylight hours during the summer, this destination rewards cyclists who enjoy exploring somewhere that’s still refreshingly under the radar.

For cyclists looking to avoid crowded beaches and mass tourism, the Faroe Islands offer a refreshingly different kind of summer escape.

What we love

Cycling in the Faroe Islands feels genuinely adventurous without necessarily requiring huge daily mileage. You might only ride 40 or 50 kilometres, but between the climbs, changing weather and island-hopping logistics, every day feels memorable and completely different from the last.

For a coolcation, it’s hard to beat. Average summer temperatures hover around 13°C, making it an ideal escape from southern Europe’s midsummer heat while still giving you long daylight hours for exploring.

We also like that visiting cyclists can draw on local support from Rent A Bike Faroes. Based in Tórshavn, they can help with bike hire, guided rides, route guidance and practical cycling logistics, which can be particularly useful in a destination where tunnels, ferries and limited services need some thought.

What else they offer

Rent A Bike Faroes has helped locals and visitors cycle in the Faroe Islands since 2018. Based in Tórshavn, they offer road bikes, gravel bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids and e-bikes, alongside guided and private guided tours. They can also assist with repairs, transport support and other practical cycling logistics.

Bikepacking Iceland can also help if you’re combining the Faroe Islands with a cycling trip in Iceland. They offer self-supported, semi-supported and fully supported cycling trips, alongside bike hire, route planning and practical support through their Fjord Hub and Keflavík Hub.

More information

• Cycling Faroe Islands, with tips on when to visit, cycling accommodation options and more.
• 15 of the world’s best islands for cycling, for more options if you want to try an island cycling break.
• Rent A Bike Faroes, for more information on bike hire, guided rides and cycling support in the Faroe Islands.
• Bikepacking Iceland’s website, with more information on the cycling tours and support they offer in Iceland.

8. Westfjords Way with Cycling Westfjords

Best for experienced cyclists craving big landscapes, quiet roads and true wilderness.

Dynjandi, the thunderous pearl of the Westfjords (Credit: Gusti Productions)

Key information

Route: A self-supported bikepacking adventure around Iceland’s dramatic Westfjords, following a customised section of the Westfjords Way.

Terrain: A mix of smooth asphalt and gravel roads, with steep mountain passes, fjords, tunnels and long remote stretches between settlements.

Difficulty: Challenging. The terrain, weather and remoteness demand good fitness, confident bike handling and careful preparation.

Highlights: Dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, waterfalls, hot springs, wildlife, remote fishing villages and some of Europe’s quietest roads.

Logistics: Self-supported tour with a tailored GPX route, consultation with local experts, airport transfers, remote on-route support and access to the Fjord Hub bike shop.

What makes this a coolcation: Iceland’s Westfjords offer cool summer riding with more than 20 hours of daylight, giving cyclists plenty of flexibility to plan around the weather. June to August are the main riding months, but conditions can change quickly and strong winds often make it feel colder.

The riding

The Westfjords is one of those places that makes you feel wonderfully small. This remote corner of Iceland combines towering mountains, deep fjords and endless Atlantic views.

The riding is a mix of smooth asphalt and well-maintained gravel, linked together by steep mountain passes, abandoned roads and winding coastal sections. Every climb reveals another dramatic fjord or waterfall, while regular opportunities to soak in Iceland’s famous hot pots provide the perfect reward after a day in the saddle. The weather keeps you on your toes, but that’s all part of the adventure.

What we love

What makes Cycling Westfjords stand out is the confidence their local knowledge gives you. Rather than simply downloading a GPX file and hoping for the best, you’ll benefit from route advice, local support and years of experience helping cyclists explore one of Europe’s most remote regions. That means you can enjoy the sense of wilderness while knowing help is never too far away if you need it.

The combination of cool summer temperatures, long daylight hours and incredibly low traffic makes the Westfjords feel like a cyclist’s playground. You spend more time admiring waterfalls, spotting seals and soaking up the scenery than worrying about cars or overheating.

We also love how much thought Cycling Westfjords has put into its self-supported experience. The planning call, tailored route, local contacts and remote assistance all give you the freedom of independent travel without leaving you completely on your own in the Icelandic wilderness.

What else they offer

Cycling Westfjords offers everything from self-supported passport routes to fully guided tours of Iceland’s Westfjords. Whether you want local route advice and remote support or a fully supported trip with a mechanic, support van and logistics taken care of, every itinerary is designed by people who live and ride in the region year-round.

More information

• Our guide to cycling Westfjords, including tips on where to stay and the key cycling events.
• 9 best gravel bike adventures in Europe, including Westfjords and other exciting regions.
• Cycling Westfjords’ website, with more information on this and other tours they offer.

Tips for cycling in hotter countries

Coolcations aren’t the only way to enjoy comfortable cycling in summer. Choosing the right tour operator, staying somewhere that understands cyclists’ needs and adapting your riding to the conditions can make a huge difference, even in traditionally hot destinations.

Many specialist cycling hotels now adjust their routines during heatwaves. At Ferme des Belugues, at the foot of Mont Ventoux in Provence, for example, guests can take advantage of early breakfasts or help themselves to breakfast items before sunrise if they want to get out before the heat builds. The team also shares local advice on shaded routes, drinkable water fountains and the best places to stop for a cooling break, whether that’s a café or a nearby river.

Practical touches make a difference too. Riders can chill or freeze their bidons before setting off, while guided support on Ventoux means fresh bottles and extra nutrition are always close. Back at the hotel, air-conditioned rooms, a swimming pool, shaded outdoor areas, kit-washing facilities, and plenty of local knowledge help you recover properly for the next day’s ride.

The swimming pool at Ferme des Belugues makes a popular post ride spot to relax

Final thoughts

Listen to local advice, start early, stay hydrated and be prepared to adapt your plans if temperatures climb higher than expected.

Many experienced cyclists think they’ll cope just fine in the heat, until they spend a day climbing under a blazing summer sun.

So plan ahead and next year, perhaps consider whether it’s time for a coolcation?!

What’s next?

• 5 of the best places to go cycling in July, if you want to enjoy a peak summer cycling break.
• 5 best cycling routes in France, particularly if you’re looking for an easy cycling holiday.
• Cycling the Isle of Man, including tips on routes, events, cycling hotels and bike shops on the island.
• 5 of the best luxury cycling tours, if you want a premium trip.
• Winter cycling holidays, our pick of the best places to cycle in winter.
• Eco-friendly cycling holidays, for the 6 things to check before you book

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.