Some people take holidays to relax and unwind and generally slow down. Other people rev up their lifestyles on holiday. If the latter describes you, then keep reading. Mountain biking is a great way to cover a lot of ground in a little amount of time while getting an amazing workout. Plus, as long as your wheels are turning, you’ll be getting a unique and personal view of the trail you’re following. The people, sights, weather, and company you keep are all specific to your holiday and having that kind of control is enviable. If your mind is stuck on mountain biking for your next holiday, use our guide to find some of the best spots in all of Europe to give it a go.
Southern Highlands, Iceland
If you are looking for the most scenic mountain biking adventure, look no further than the Southern Highlands in Iceland. Just one of the many reasons to visit Iceland, country-wide trails let you bike next to waterfalls and lava fields, trek through the desert and a top jagged mountains—all while in the same country.
The Southern Highlands are located in the interior section of Iceland and as such, there aren’t many inhabitants in the area meaning you’ll have the road to yourself. Apart from the few huts created specifically for travellers in the summer, you may find it best to go out with a tour group. This way, you can explore the Geyser hot springs, camp at remote mountain lakes, discover all of the travel spots off the beaten path (like Þingvallavatn Lake), and hike a stretch of the most popular trails in the country with a few other like-minded folks.
The trails here are a bit more advanced, and are usually reserved for experienced bikers as it can be a challenging trip. Before confirming your trip details, make sure you are in shape and optimal physical health and your bike is well tuned.
Lake Garda, Italy
Italy is famous for its beauty, romance, and food. It’s easy to overindulge when travelling through Italy, whether it be with fresh meals, delicious locally produced wine or sweet desserts. An easy way to offset this gluttony is by hopping on your bike and putting some miles on it. You’ll be burning calories while zipping through the picturesque scenery before you. Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake with spectacular views of the stunning mountain peaks soaring up around it. Lake Garda has been voted the best mountain bikers destination in the world, and to this day it remains a popular spot for many professionals. Multi-sport enthusiasts should also know that the Noce River feeds into Lake Garda. It is often voted one of the world's best rafting rivers.
For the beginners out there, don’t fret, just because this is a popular spot for the highly trained pro’s doesn’t mean you can’t take a stab at it too. With over 1000 kilometres of trails, riders with all abilities can tear up the path while finding their Zen among the castles and valleys of vineyards that dot the sloping mountains.
Chamonix, France
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, or simply Chamonix, is a sprawl of peaks of the Rhone-Alpes region of France. It is considered one of the many must-see travel destinations in the world. This was the home of the first winter Olympics in 1924 and the community of the same name is considered one of the oldest ski resorts in France.
The popular mountain is the highest European mountain west of Russia. It often attracts many of the extreme-sports lovers and in the summer, you will find many mountaineers and mountain bikers due to its exciting and challenging paths. Many of the amazing sights and experiences contained in Chamonix are experiences you will only find in France. With trails to suit all abilities, anyone exploring France can head out and take on the trails. It is important to note, though, that the more experienced riders will be the ones to get the most fulfilment out of the steep paths while beginners may be catching their breath more than they’d like.
Are, Sweden
Though much of Sweden, particularly Are, is synonymous with Alpine skiing, the bike park located here may soon be the hottest destination for the summer months. With over 30 marked trails, 40 kilometres of downhill trails, the more experienced riders will be in heaven. If you are travelling in a group where some are more experienced than others, have no fear, all can ride here.
There is even a bike school for those in your group that may want to gain more confidence before heading out onto the trails. The active bike patrol is out consistently caring for the trails and looking for new paths, so you can rest assured that this is a well-organized and safe place to visit.
Hardanger Mountains, Norway
If you’re looking for a family biking trip, one suitable for all ages and abilities, head to the Hardanger Mountains in Norway.Start the trek and experience the amazing views of the Geirangerfjord’s landscape while viewing the waterfalls and glacial peaks. Though some of the ride will be steep, it isn’t a majority of the trails and the energy expended is reasonable for everyone in the crew.
Grease up your chains, grab those bike gloves and head to Europe for some of the hottest destinations on the planet for mountain biking. Prepare for the unexpected—like a popped tire, wrecked chain or loose handlebar—before you even leave the comfort of your home. Cover-More offers adventure sports coverfor their policy holders, protecting them against any damage or injuries that occur while under policy, and mountain biking is included. Just make sure you have a helmet before you put your peddles in motion
Image courtesy of Flickr user Kosala Bandara