Looking for a winter sun cycling holiday this Christmas or New Year? While much of the Northern Hemisphere is wrapping up warm, there are plenty of places around the world where December is perfect for cycling. From pristine beaches and ancient temples to wildlife-rich trails and coastal roads, a Christmas cycling holiday is a wonderful way to swap cold weather for sunshine, fresh air and adventure.
Whether you already live in a location where the festive season marks the middle of summer, or you wish to escape the cold fingers of December and jet off for some winter sun, we have got you covered! Here is just a taste of what you could be doing this Christmas/New Year – bike touring with the sun on your back as you ditch the turkey, knitwear, and log fires, for the open road (or trail). Say hello to balmy days, active adventures and sunny gratifying rides, and head towards the new year with a brightly positive focus.
Try a Sun-soaked Beach Ride over Christmas.
Check out the ideas below for festive bike tours and try something different this year
New Zealand Cycling Holidays
Make a beeline for New Zealand as this is a great time to visit but be warned, it is also peak season, so be prepared to book as early as you can. Joining one of the true classic guided bike tours like the Alps to Ocean or West Coast Wilderness (WCW) tour is a wonderful way to explore with like-minded companions and excellent guides on the stunning South Island. New Zealand's growing network of 'Great Rides' are a real must-do for any cyclist keen to travel safely and off-road on historic and delightful byways. Think disused logging tramways, gold mining water races, old railways and newly-developed cycleways in premium spots. You will be guaranteed exceptional views, good company, pristine landscapes and kiwi hospitality. Tour dates available between Christmas and New Year (and beyond).
Cycle tour one of NZ's Great Rides.
Explore the West Coast Wilderness trail on a guided bike tourCycling Coastal Thailand
Over to Asia and here is a fantastic moderate and achievable guided tour along the coastal roads of Thailand as you make your way south from Bangkok to a beach resort at Khao Lak. At the end of the tour you can opt to catch a flight or transport can be arranged to nearby Phuket for further beachside explorations. The tour itself is a finely balanced mix of cultural, historical and coastal sights - for example, visiting the floating markets, taking a long-tail boat cruise, cycling at Kaeng Krachan National Park (Thailand's largest), visiting caves, temples and riding through plantations, staying at sublime resorts, and even on a private island - Koh Talu - with plentiful snorkelling and kayaking opportunities among the colourful fish and coral. This is a near-perfect Thailand bike tour that could be in your Christmas stocking this year!
Biking Coastal Thailand.
Enjoy a sunny vacation as you ride south from Bangkok, along the coast, towards island blissSelf-guided Cycle Touring in Australia
With dates technically available over Christmas, everything is subject to availability, so you'll want to get in quick to secure spots! This self-guided gem is a 4 day ride on NSW's south coast from Thirroul to Kiama. You can explore on scenic cycle paths stopping at beautiful beaches and quaint country towns. The itinerary is suitable for families and is very accessible from Sydney so why not treat the family on a cycling adventure this festive season.
Beach Cycling Australia.
Enjoy a relaxing coastal ride this ChristmasVietnam by Bike
Ride Vietnam's north over 7 days on a guided tour taking place between Xmas and New Year. Discover heritage sites, history, coastal cycling, scenic views and even a cruise on the Perfume River. This biking adventure takes you from Hue to Hoi An with lots of time spent sightseeing and exploring enigmatic Vietnam.
Cycling Adventure in Vietnam.
Go on a group guided tour focused on heritage and cyclingCambodia & Vietnam Cycle Vacation
