6 best places to go cycling in November

1. Granada

Best for sun-soaked climbs, Sierra Nevada switchbacks and tapas-fuelled recovery rides.

The famous Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain.

Why cycle in November

November is one of the most underrated times of year to ride in Granada. The fierce summer heat has long passed, the roads are quieter, and daytime temperatures are typically around a pleasant 17°C. ideal for long, steady climbs into the Sierra Nevada.

It’s still warm enough to enjoy café stops outdoors, yet cool enough to make big elevation gains like the Haza Llana or El Purche feel more manageable.

While snow and ice can start to reach the highest peaks later in the month, most of the classic ascents remain rideable (just check the weather before setting off on your ride and pack warm layers!). The light is beautiful – crisp mornings, golden afternoons, and clear views across to the Mediterranean on fine days.

Down in the valleys, you’ll find autumn colours in the olive groves and a calm, authentic rhythm that’s very different from the summer tourist bustle.

For serious riders, it’s also a great time for training. With dry conditions and smooth roads, it’s easy to log long climbs without overheating.

Other times to consider

Spring (March to early June) is another excellent window for cycling in Granada and the Sierra Nevada, bringing green hillsides, wildflowers, and clear conditions on the mountain roads. Summer (July and August) can be brutally hot, especially in the valleys, though early morning rides are still possible.

Autumn as a whole – from late September through to mid-November – is arguably the sweet spot, with cooler air and quiet roads. From December to February, the high passes are usually closed by snow, but lower routes and gravel rides around the Alpujarras and Cazorla National Park remain an option for mild winter sunshine.

More information

• Our guide to cycling Granada has a ton of useful information for planning a trip to the region.
• Cycling in the Sierra Nevada covers Granada and Almeria and is one of cycling’s best-kept secrets.

2. The Algarve

Best for mild days, smooth climbs and coastal loops past golden cliffs and fishing towns.

Remote gravel roads in the Western Algarve (photo credit: Musette.Bike)

Why cycle in November

The Algarve might be best known for its beaches and golf resorts, but it’s also one of Europe’s best winter cycling bases. With mild, dry weather and daytime temperatures typically ranging from 14 to 19°C, November is a good time to explore its quiet backroads while much of Europe starts to shiver.

The region’s compact size means you can experience a real mix of terrain. The coastal strip offers rolling rides past fishing villages and remote gravel tracks along dramatic sea cliffs, while heading inland brings steady climbs into the Serra de Monchique or Serra de Caldeirão.

Climbs like Fóia and Malhão are famous from the Volta ao Algarve and provide a satisfying test for any rider.

Other times to consider

Cycling is possible year-round in the Algarve thanks to its mild climate, but the best months are October to May, when temperatures are comfortable and traffic is lighter.

In February, the Algarve also hosts the Volta ao Algarve, or Tour of the Algarve. This is the most recognisable cycling race in Portugal.

Summer (June to August) can be hot and busy on the coast, so early morning rides work best. Spring brings green hillsides and longer days, while autumn delivers warm seas and golden light – but for quiet roads and sunshine, November is hard to beat.

More information

• Guide to cycling the Algarve
• The must-do cycling events in the Algarve
• Guide to gravel cycling in the Algarve 

3. Limassol, Cyprus

Best for Mediterranean warmth, mountain-to-sea routes and quiet, car-free roads.

Ruins of ancient Kourion near Limassol

Why cycle in November

Limassol is becoming an appealing late-season cycling base. Set on Cyprus’ south coast, the city combines seaside locales with easy access to serious mountain terrain – the Troodos range rises just inland, offering climbs that reach just over 1,900 metres.

November brings ideal conditions for exploring them: daytime temperatures around 18 to 22°C, clear skies, and quiet roads after the summer crowds have gone.

The variety of riding here is a major draw. To the east, you’ll find flat coastal terrain for steady spins; to the west, rolling vineyards and olive groves; and within an hour, long climbs into the pine forests around Mount Olympus (Cyprus’s highest peak).

The cycling scene is thriving, too. Local riders and visiting pros alike train here through winter. Limassol also now hosts major events such as the 0–2000 Cycling Challenge and L’Étape Cyprus, which both showcase the area’s terrain and community spirit.

Other times to consider

Cyprus is a year-round cycling destination, but November through to April is particularly good – mild, dry, and perfect for climbing. Spring (March to May) brings green hillsides and slightly warmer days, while October still offers sunshine and warm seas.

July and August can be uncomfortably hot, so early morning rides are best in midsummer.

More information

• Limassol cycling guide
• Cyprus cycling guide

4. South Africa

Best for epic coastal roads, wildlife encounters and big-sky adventures in the southern summer.

Cycling through vineyards in South Africa (photo credit: African Bikers)

Why cycle in November

November marks the start of South Africa’s summer and is one of the best months to explore Cape Town and its surrounds by bike. Warm, sunny days (averaging 22 to 26°C) and long daylight hours make it ideal for anyone wanting to escape the shorter daylight hours in the Northern Hemisphere.

The famous Cape Doctor wind is usually less fierce than in mid-summer (source), and the roads and trails are still relatively quiet before the festive season crowds arrive.

From a cycling perspective, conditions couldn’t be better. The coastal roads – including Chapman’s Peak Drive and Clarence Drive – glow under clear blue skies, while the vineyards around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are lush and green after the spring rains.

Inland, the air is dry and clear, giving you amazing views from mountain passes like Franschhoek Pass and Bainskloof.

It’s also a great time to combine cycling with sightseeing. The city’s summer buzz is building, outdoor cafés are open late, and it’s still (relatively) easy to book accommodation.

Other times to consider

The broader cycling season in the Western Cape runs from October to April, with consistently warm, dry weather and a lively outdoor atmosphere. December to February bring the hottest temperatures and strongest winds, so early rides or shaded vineyard routes are best during that period.

March and April are excellent, offering slightly cooler conditions and the added attraction of major events like the Cape Town Cycle Tour. Winter (June to August) is cooler and wetter, especially around the coast, but still offers some fine days for shorter rides and off-season escapes in the Winelands region.

More information

• Planning a cycling tour in South Africa? Get expert tips from our guide.
• Our South Africa destination hub has more useful information.

5. Dubai & UAE

Best for winter sunshine, pristine bike tracks and desert rides under cloudless skies.

Meydan area roads of Dubai (photo credit: Carl Jauncey)

Why cycle in November

Few people realise just how popular UAE is with cyclists! This desert destination offers a genuine winter training haven, complete with world-class track facilities and year-round sunshine.

November sits at the start of the prime riding season, bringing warm, dry weather – typically in the mid-20s °C – before the hotter months return.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi now boast some of the best dedicated cycling tracks in the world. The Al Qudra and Al Wathba desert loops stretch for more than 160 kilometres of smooth, car-free riding, while the floodlit Meydan track and Yas Marina F1 Circuit open to cyclists several evenings a week. It’s a safe, social, and surprisingly scenic experience – sunrise over the dunes or the Burj Khalifa (Dubai’s iconic skyscraper) is a sight you won’t forget.

For those seeking elevation, the mountains are closer than you’d think. Within a couple of hours of Dubai, you can climb Jebel Jais or Jebel Hafeet – both used in the UAE Tour – or explore the rugged roads around Hatta and Kalba. Unless you’re a local, we’d suggest seeking a local guide or group to ride with to make sure you pick the best routes.

November also brings events such as the Coast to Coast Challenge and Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge.  Add in luxury hotels, organised group rides and smooth logistics, and it’s clear why so many riders head here for winter miles under blue skies.

Other times to consider

Cycling season in the UAE runs from October to May, when conditions are warm but manageable. December to February are the coolest months, perfect for long daytime rides.

The pro peloton also regularly visits as part of the famous UAE Tour in February.

From June to September, temperatures often exceed 40°C, so only early morning or night rides are feasible.

More information

• Our guide to cycling in Dubai offers plenty of practical advice for cycling around the city and the wider UAE.

6. Kerala, India

Best for gentle tropical riding through tea hills, backwaters and spice-scented villages.

Happy cyclists in Kerala (photo credit: Pedal Nation)

Why cycle in November

Kerala is one of India’s most inviting regions for a relaxed cycling escape. November marks the start of the dry, cooler season that runs through to February – ideal for exploring its tropical backroads before the heat and humidity of spring return.

Expect daytime temperatures around 25 to 30°C, light breezes, and lush green landscapes still fresh from the monsoon rains.

Cycling here offers a gentle way to explore some of southern India’s most beautiful scenery. You can ride from the misty tea plantations of Munnar down to the palm-fringed coast, passing spice gardens, rice paddies, and quiet village roads along the way.

The pace is unhurried, the traffic light, and the scenery endlessly photogenic – especially around the Western Ghats and the tranquil backwaters near Alleppey and Kumarakom.

Other times to consider

The best window for cycling in Kerala runs from November to February, when conditions are dry and comfortable.

March to May quickly becomes hot and humid, while the southwest monsoon (June to October) brings heavy rainfall and slippery roads. For the freshest scenery and quieter trails, early November and late February are especially good times to visit.

More information

• Our guide to cycling in India offers an in-depth look at what cyclists can expect in the region.
• Must-read tips for cycling in India 

What’s next?

Not sure about cycling holidays in November? Don’t miss:

• Guide to winter cycling holiday options for more options across Europe and further afield in the coming months.
• Guide to cycling in October and September for anyone looking to head away earlier in autumn.
• Winter cycling hacks are handy if you decide to visit a cold-weather destination during November.
• Christmas and New Year cycling holidays for our pick of the ultimate festive cycling escape.

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.