Love cycling, but not so keen on climbing hills? You're certainly not alone! While some cyclists love the challenge of a steep climb, others would much rather spend their time enjoying the scenery, discovering new places and stopping for a leisurely lunch.
The good news is that a memorable cycling holiday doesn't have to involve conquering mountains. There are some wonderful routes where gentler gradients and relatively flat terrain let you focus on the enjoyment of the journey. Here are three cycling holidays worth considering if you'd prefer a little less uphill.
Spectacular Views on Tour.
Minimise the hills but don't miss out on the views1. Cycling Coastal Thailand
Fancy swapping European villages and countryside for tropical coastlines? This 11-day guided cycling adventure through Thailand offers a completely different kind of cycling holiday.
Traveling south from Bangkok towards Khao Lak, you'll discover quiet coastal roads, traditional fishing villages, coconut plantations and beautiful stretches of beach. With an easy elevation profile and relatively gentle riding, there's plenty of opportunity to soak up the scenery and experience local life along the way.
And of course, there's the added bonus of warm tropical weather, delicious Thai food and time to enjoy some beautiful beaches.
Why you'll love it: Tropical scenery, fascinating cultural experiences and relaxed coastal cycling in a beautiful part of Thailand.
Coastal Cycling Delight.
Ride by the ocean on a mostly flat tour2. The Danube Cyclepath – Austria
If there's one classic European cycling route that deserves a place on this list, it's the Danube Cyclepath. Following the beautiful Danube River through Austria, this eight-day self-guided holiday is ideal for cyclists who prefer their riding relatively flat.
You'll pass through picturesque villages, historic towns, vineyards and some of Austria's most beautiful riverside landscapes. The route also takes you through the famous Wachau Valley, where charming villages and vineyard-covered hillsides provide a beautiful backdrop to your ride.
With the river guiding your journey, there's plenty to enjoy without worrying about steep climbs.
Why you'll love it: Classic European scenery, beautiful riverside cycling and a wonderfully relaxed way to explore Austria.
Perfect Leisurely Cycling
Head to Europe and cycle tour the Danube3. The Ultimate Hauraki Rail Trail Tour – New Zealand
New Zealand is famous for its mountains, but the Hauraki Rail Trail offers a rather different cycling experience. Following historic railway routes through the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions, this five-day adventure takes you through peaceful farmland, historic gold-mining towns and the spectacular Karangahake Gorge.
With gentle gradients along much of the trail, it's a wonderful way to explore the countryside at a relaxed pace. Expect scenic riverside riding, old railway tunnels, charming country towns and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way.
Why you'll love it: A relaxed rail-trail adventure with beautiful scenery and plenty of variety, without the need to tackle mountain climbs.
Rail Trail Cycle Touring in NZ
Enjoy a leisurely self-guided cycle tourWhether you'd prefer the peaceful rail trails of New Zealand, the classic riverside routes of Austria or the tropical coastline of Thailand, there's more than one way to enjoy a cycling holiday.
You don't have to be chasing personal bests or conquering mountain passes. Sometimes the best cycling adventures are simply about enjoying the ride, discovering somewhere new and having a wonderful holiday along the way.