Top 7 Winter Cycling Destinations
Whether you plan on switching hemispheres or not, winter is not a time to lay down your bike—far from it. Below, we have compiled a list of our top seven destinations to give you a helping hand in getting your winter cycling plans off to the perfect start:
Boulder, Colorado
Colorado, Boulder in particular, is one of the most stunning cycling locations in the whole US, possibly even the whole northern hemisphere. The popular Morgul-Bismarck Loop is a 13.1-mile circuit that, despite ending in a twelve percent grade climb, has become just as popular a riding destination for cyclists in the winter than it is during the summer.
The mountainous landscape of Boulder and the surrounding areas means greater care must be taken while cycling in and around the city during the winter.
Malta and Gozo
The islands of Malta and Gozo located just south of Italy in the Mediterranean Sea are popular among cyclist from all over Europe and further afield, throughout the winter due to their mild temperatures and scenery that can, quite simply, take your breath away.
Popular among non-cycling tourists in their own right, winter cyclists to the islands are treated to a number of circuits that wind around cultural attractions, even allowing the rider to hop between the two islands as they please.
Cyprus and the Greek Islands
Cyprus and the Greek Islands are famed for offering some of the best winter cycling in all of Europe. Due to both countries’ proximity to northeastern Africa and the Middle East, it’s rare for temperatures to drop below fifteen degrees centigrade during the height of the winter.
Choosing to cycle these countries during the winter can save you a significant amount of money on flights and accommodation. Add that to the fact that tourists are largely scarce during this time meaning you have more space to yourself to cycle around, exploring the beauty both of these countries have to offer.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a city of cyclists, but it’s the Charles River trail in particular that attracts a large number of cyclists each winter to this already-popular destination.
At 23 miles, the Charles River trail takes in a huge number of sights around Boston and the surrounding area as it loops around to Watertown and back to the main downtown Boston area again. Due to the multi-use nature of the trail, it is well looked after during the winter months so to ensure a safe ride for all.
South Africa
South Africa is largely known as a temperate country all year round. Due to its location in the southern hemisphere, it can be the perfect place to have a cycling holiday when you want to get your blood pumping and your mind into serious cycling mode.
Offering a vast number of circuits and paths for the beginner cyclist, all the way up to the most advanced level, it’s even possible to partake in a cycle safari on a private game reserve with a ranger as a guide cycling alongside you showcasing all the sights and sounds this incredible part of the world has to offer.
New Zealand
If you live north of the equator and you’re looking to head to the Southern hemisphere, no winter cycling destination can beat New Zealand between November and March.
One of the highlights to cycling in New Zealand is the vast range of scenery and cycle routes available. Despite the relatively small size of the country, the scenery ranges from countryside, to forests, snow-capped mountains, and rough coastlines very quickly. The Southern Alps ten-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown is especially popular among local and visiting cyclists alike.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a cyclist’s dream city, whether you’re planning on visiting during the summer or winter months. One ride in particular has caught the attention of winter cyclists across the world in recent years and that’s the Chilly Hill, put on by the Cascade Bicycle Club.
The ride has quickly become popular due to its tough, grueling course around Bainbridge Island. With 2,600 feet to climb in a space of thirty-three miles, more and more cyclist are signing on each year to see if they’re strong enough to take on the challenge.
About the Author
ProBikeKit is a leading British road cycling specialist offering a vast online selection of bicycle tires, frames, and other quality components.
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