How to Explore Europe's Diverse Countryside by Bike

Janeen Christoff
by Janeen Christoff
Last updated: 1:15 PM ET, Fri July 22, 2016

As the Tour de France nears its end, cyclists are kicking things into high gear and biking is more top of mind than ever on the continent. While visitors may be excited by this international event, unique bike tours and expeditions from luxury hotels and resorts throughout Europe can keep the spirit of cycling alive for visitors.

Here are a few unique cycling opportunities in three different regions of Europe offered by some of its finest hotels.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

The gently rolling Tuscan countryside is ideally suited to exploration by bicycle - and the Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is the perfect place to start. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural environments as they travel through the cycling paths of the region.

[READMORE]READ MORE: 5 Reasons To Travel The World Via Bicycle [/READMORE]

In the Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, travelers can explore Montalcino's sundappled vineyards, discover charming farmhouses and tiny medieval villages, as well as visit the historic Abbey of Sant'Antimo. An itinerary can include a stop at the spectacular Crete Senesi and Monte Oliveto Abbey, follow the ancient pilgrimage road, Via Francigena, through the heart of the valley, or trace a portion of the famous L'Eroica bike racetrack.

Guided cycling tours are available for both road biking and mountain biking from the Rosewood. The excursions are offered in easy, moderate and advanced levels and include bike rental, helmet, water and transportation to the starting point.

Finca Cortesin

The Finca Cortesin in Malaga, Spain, is tucked away in the heart of the Spanish Costa del Sol. The hotel is located between Marbella and Sotogrande where it overlooks the Mediterranean Sea in a private community on a 530-acre property that combines seaside luxury with the natural beauty of the Andalusian Mountains.

In addition to golf, a spa, a sports club and a beach club, the hotel offers a hike and bike package that sets out for a day of exploration in the mountains and hills of Andalusia. The adventures are tailor-made for travelers who can choose their levels of difficulties and adjust the amount of hiking and biking to their personal preferences.

Hotel Richard Löwenherz

Another region where visitors can immerse themselves in beauty and UNESCO World Heritage sites is the Wachau region of Germany, along the Danube River. At the Hotel Richard Lowenherz, located right on the banks of the river, an ideal jumping-off point for a journey through the Wachau Valley. In addition to being pampered with culinary delights and a fine selection of wines, visitors have many options to explore by foot or on a bike.

[READMORE]READ MORE: 7 Bike-Friendly Cities For The Cyclist [/READMORE]

The Orchard Cycle Tour is an approximately two-hour journey that takes the ferry across the Danube and follows the river upstream through orchards and vineyards or Rossatz to Arnsdorf. Guests then take the ferry to Spitz and follow local streets and paths to the historic village of Durnstein.


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