As winter starts to turn to spring, thoughts of the summer and exciting cycle tour destinations form in the mind of the adventure traveller. Below we've brought together 7 of the best offerings for this year, including those aimed at leisure cyclists and some for a more advanced rider (both MTB and road). There is a wonderful selection of routes from several different countries and these bike tours offer just a small glimpse of what is available to choose from.

There is a mix of guided and self-guided tours as we seem to get a pretty even split of interest between the two. Guided tours work well for those looking to travel in a group, or anyone wanting a bit more structure or can appeal to riders who simply like everything to be taken care of – leaving them with time to enjoy their vacation free from distractions. Self-guided tours are great if you prefer more flexibility and want to travel on your own but with the confidence of having someone to call on should you need it. Of course, self-guided tours also have accommodation included and bikes arranged, and also give you the planned route to cycle, but you're out on your own on a daily basis and can wander off the route as you please.

Germany Bike Tour

The self-guided Romantic Road and Bavarian Lakes tour is an 8-day cycle journey through the heart of Germany. The tour takes in the picturesque towns and villages of Bavaria, including Augsburg, Friedberg, Worthsee, Murnau and Fussen. Along the way, you'll discover historic castles, cobbled streets and stunning lakes of this beautiful region. Experience a boat ride on romantic Lake Chiemsee, swim or rent a pedal boat in the Bavarian Lakes and visit the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. You'll also have the chance to sample typical Bavarian food, as well as visit a local beer garden.

Romantic Road & Bavarian Lakes

From $1,321.54 USD

Embark on 8 days of romantic Germany and Bavarian Lakes tour to experience the beauty of stunning landscapes, breathtaking castles, and charming villages.

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Belgium Bike Tour

The Flemish Beer Route tour is a unique exploration of Belgian culture by bike. On this tour, you'll visit some of the best breweries in the region however, even if beer is not your thing, it's worth taking a look at what else is on offer in this varied itinerary. Highlights include: the chance to visit an open air museum, the 'Land of 1001 ponds', historic landmarks such as Haksberg Castle, Scherpenheuvel and Diest, the River Demer, Antwerp, the university town of Leuven, a former prisoners' colony, the 'cycling through the trees' experience, nature reserves, and much more. The week ends with the quirky highlight of cycling through water! There is much to enjoy and experience on this Belgian bike tour.

The Flemish Beer Route

Pedal, sip, and savour: A bike and beer adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Belgium!

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Croatia Bike Tour

This tour takes riders through the spellbinding Istrian region of Croatia. You'll explore by boat and bike, as you ride the exciting trails with the sea in sight, and board the boat to relax at the end of each day. The tour is 8 days long with 6 days of guided mountain biking. This is a great way to experience some of the best scenery and attractions of Istria while enjoying an active outdoor adventure.

Highlights of Istria MTB

From $1,299.49 USD

An 8-day MTB and boat tour that combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to explore Istria on two wheels and by sea.

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Austria and Italy Bike Tour

This La Via Claudia self-guided 8 day biking tour starts in Austria and heads through the beautiful Italian Alps. The Via Claudia Augusta is a 2000-year-old Roman-built road that was for many centuries the main commercial route across the Alps and offers wonderful vistas of this lovely part of Europe. Riders will experience stunning mountain views, and explore the picturesque villages of the region. The tour includes comfortable overnight accommodation in family-run hotels, and is a great way to experience the unique beauty and culture of the Italian Alps.

La Via Claudia

From $2,901.02 USD

An easy-paced cycling vacation in Italy and Austria, ideal for those wishing to experience the beauty of the Alps and Italy in style over 8 days.

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Spain Bike Tour

The Camino de Santiago is an historic pilgrimage route running through northern Spain which is also designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This guided bike tour is the perfect way to experience the rich history, culture and beauty of the route. The tour lasts for 7 days, and follows the true Camino as much as possible along forest tracks and country paths, quiet roads and farmers’ trails, taking you through villages and towns of the region. Riders will have the opportunity to explore the route and its history, visit ancient cathedrals, enjoy local food and wine, and soak up the scenery.

Camino De Santiago

Trace the steps of ancient travellers and make your way along the legendary Camino de Santiago over 7 glorious days.

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Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic Cycling

This 11 day tour from Berlin to Krakow is an epic guided cycling adventure that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Germany, the Czech Republic and Poland. You'll explore stunning cities such as Berlin, Dresden, and Krakow, as well as discover the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Discover historic old towns and ancient architecture, castles, ruins, abbeys and monuments. You'll also ride past lakes, hills, and spectacular national park vistas and explore historic paths, for example, the Amber Trail in Olomouc, (an ancient trade route from the coast of the North Sea to the Mediterranean Sea).

Berlin to Krakow

From $3,850.00 USD

Join an 11 day tour stretching through three countries – Germany, the Czech Republic and Poland – where much important European history from the last century was written, and embark on a fascinating tour.

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Sicily Bike Tour (Italy)

This 8 day guided road cycle tour of Italy's gorgeous island, Sicily, takes cyclists through the stunning landscapes of the largest island in the Mediterranean. Participants will explore picturesque landscapes made of farmlands, deep gorges and dramatic coastal scenery which showcase the great natural diversity of the region. Explore the incredible diverse heritage left here by past civilizations including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish. On this exciting cycling tour you will explore the south-eastern part of the island, pedalling through the Baroque gems of Ragusa, Modica, Noto and other filming locations of the famous TV series Inspector Montalbano up to Syracuse, the ancient Greek capital.  And, of course, you'll have plenty of chances to sample some of the island's fantastic local cuisine. This tour is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable cycling experience in a beautiful unspoilt location.

Cycle Touring Italy's Islands - Sicily

From $2,998.82 USD

Ride through the UNESCO Val di Noto and Montalbano's filming locations on an 8 day cycle tour through Sicily.

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