When you want the journey to be as exciting as the destination then heading to Scotland is always desirable. With some of the best scenery in Europe, if not the world, there is a lot to see and enjoy.
And with searches for ‘best cycling holidays in Europe’ increasing by over 180% over the past 12 months (according to a recent study), getting on a bike can be the most enjoyable way of experiencing some of the most stunning scenery around.
Travel insurance comparison site, Comparethemarket, has compiled a list of the top 20 most Instagrammed cycling routes across Europe as inspiration for a thrilling cycling break and one Scottish route has made the list.
Bealach Na Ba Circuit is considered to be one of the hardest but most rewarding 'climbs' in the UK with the scenery some of the most stunning you'll come across. Made famous by the North Coast 500 route, it's growing in popularity with cyclists too.
Taking the top spot is the Wild Atlantic Way on the Inishowen Peninsula in Ireland’s County Donegal. At 1,600 miles in length, the coastal route winds across the breathtaking Irish West Coast.
Home to the iconic Tour De France, it’s no surprise that France takes the lead as the country with the most picturesque cycling routes - five to be precise. Of the French routes that rank in the top 20, the Camino Francés takes second overall. The scenic route runs from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port across the border to some of the most striking areas of Spain.
Commenting on the research, Anna McEntee, director at Comparethemarket, said: “For holidaymakers looking for a trip where they can combine their hobby with taking in some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, a cycling holiday is a great alternative to a city break or coastal holiday.
"However, just like any type of active holiday, accidents can happen, especially when cycling across different terrains. Having the right level of travel insurance in place is essential. And always check the policy T&Cs before going away so that you’re clear on what you’re covered for.”
The top 20 most Instagrammable cycling routes are as follows:
Name |
Location |
Wild Atlantic Way |
Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, Ireland |
Camino Francés |
Saint-Jean- Pied de-Port, France |
Cinglés De Ventoux |
Bédoin, France |
La Vuelta |
Burgos, Spain |
The Waly of St. James |
Saint-Jean- Pied de-Port, France |
The Kungsleden |
Ammarnäs Sweden |
Tour of Flanders |
Antwerp, Belgium |
Taff Trail |
Cardiff Bay, Wales |
Routes des Grandes Alpes |
Lake Geneva, France |
The Tuscany Trail |
Monterosso al Mare, Italy |
Bealach Na Ba Circuit |
Tornapress, Scotland |
The Parenzana |
Muggia, Italy |
La Marmotte |
Bourg d'Oisans, France |
Fred Whitton Challenge |
Grasmere, England |
The Cyclone |
Newcastle, England |
Mawddach Trail |
Dolgellau, Wales |
King Alfred’s Way |
Winchester, England |
North Sea Cycle Route |
Bergen, Norway |
Iron Curtain Gravel Trail |
Drei-Länder-Stein, Germany |
Danube Cycle Path |
Zwickau, Germany |
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