This pick of pedal-powered tours for riders of all abilities takes in some of the continent’s best scenery, from Sweden’s forests to the lagoons of the eastern Algarve – and Provence’s iconic climb
The summer heat would make southern Portugal particularly challenging for cycling, but spring and autumn – with cooler temperatures and coastal breezes – are perfect for it. This new cycle holiday from Chapters Holidays is a week-long trip around the lesser-known eastern Algarve based in Monte Gordo and starting this autumn. Cyclists will ride around 25km a day on coastal paths, finding secret beaches and small islands, while also snaking inland to cobbled hill towns. There’s also a day-long jaunt across the Guadiana river into Spain. Each day will end with a spread of local food and wine; expect fresh seafood and red wine from the vineyards of Tavira.
• Seven days from £1,199pp including half board accommodation, return flights, cycle hire with helmet, boat trip, tapas in Spain and local transport, chaptersholidays.co.uk. Departures: 14 October 2017, 11 March and 22 April 2018