10 Summer Cycling Routes to Escape the Heat
As summer’s heat intensifies, cycling enthusiasts often seek cooler destinations to continue their adventures. Here are ten exceptional cycling routes that offer refreshing climates and breathtaking landscapes:
Way of St. James on the north coast of Spain (Camino del Norte)
1. Camino de Santiago del Norte (Spain)
This 830 km route along Spain’s northern coast provides cooler temperatures and stunning seaside views. Starting in Irún, it typically takes about two weeks to complete, though shorter sections can be undertaken from Santander or Gijón. (iberiaclubmagazine.iberia.com)
Cabo da Nave – O Camiño dos Faros
2. Camiño dos Faros (Spain)
Spanning 235 km along Galicia’s Costa da Morte, this trail offers coastal breezes and dramatic cliffs. While challenging, the route’s natural beauty makes it worthwhile.
Ruta Transpirenaica en moto trail off road mixta. Viaje organizado.
3. Transpirenaica (Spain)
Covering approximately 1,000 km, this high-altitude route traverses the Pyrenees from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. It’s a physically demanding journey, but the alpine scenery is unparalleled.
Télécharger les flyers | La Vélodyssée
4. La Velodyssee (France)
This 1,200 km trail follows France’s Atlantic coast, offering flat terrain ideal for families and beginners. The route is well-marked and passes through picturesque seaside towns.
Cycling Kattegattleden | Sweden by Bike
5. Kattegattleden (Sweden)
A 390 km coastal path along Sweden’s western shore, this route provides cool temperatures and stunning sea views. It’s suitable for cyclists of all levels, with well-maintained paths and facilities.
Scotland’s North Coast 500
6. NC500 (Scotland)
The North Coast 500 is a 784 km circular route through Scotland’s rugged northern landscapes. Known for its challenging terrain and midges, it’s a test for experienced cyclists seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
7. The Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland)
Extending over 2,600 km, this route follows Ireland’s western coastline, offering dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and cultural landmarks. It’s a challenging journey best suited for seasoned cyclists.
Ciclovia Alpe Adria Radweg
8. Alpe Adria Radweg (Austria to Italy)
This 400 km trail connects Salzburg, Austria, to Grado, Italy, crossing the Alps via dedicated bike paths. The route is well-signed and offers a mix of mountain and coastal scenery.
Active Bike Tour around Lake Constance | Lake Constance Cycle Path
9. Lake Constance (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)
A 260 km circular route around Lake Constance, this path passes through three countries and offers flat terrain suitable for all cyclists. The route is well-marked and features charming lakeside towns.
Magnificent historic highway
10. Carretera Austral (Chile)
For those willing to travel far, this 1,240 km route through Chile’s Patagonia region offers remote landscapes and cooler temperatures. It’s a physically demanding journey best undertaken during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer months.
Embarking on any of these routes promises a refreshing escape from the summer heat, combining physical challenge with the joy of discovery.