I have a couple of weeks off in August, and was going to ride over to Wales from Derby.
However, a seed has been sown that says that I should go somewhere in Europe. Probably a train to a ferry port, then cycle around for 10 days or so, using roads and trails. I will be camping.
Any suggestions, nothing stupid tough, as it is a holiday 🙂 and I'll be lugging my stuff around with me. May also have a partner who is a competent cyclist, but unfit due to injury.
Nothing silly expensive either, as I'm on a budget.
Is it as simple as Dover - Calais? or should I try to get to another French port, or even Spain? Or Belgium? Or Norway, Denmark? Really not sure where to start?
What have you done, and what do you suggest?
Is it cheap enough to go EasyJet/Ryan Air to somewhere unusual?
I'd est flying might well be cheaper, certianly quicker, and more venue choice.
IMO you'd want somewhere a bit hilly, touring in mountains is hard work, on flat is dull. To me lesser known/developed areas are nice, I had a great tour from St Etienne via Ryanair. Jura etc appeal too, but Itlay moreso.
A couple of thoughts you can get a ferry to Calais (Dover) Caen, Cherbourg opt St Malo (Portsmouth) then ride West through Brittany to Roscoff before returning to Plymouth. Alternatively Ferry to/from Bilbao/Santander and tour Galicia.
I was given tis as an idea last year - looks great
thebiglad - MemberI know that you are ruling out northern europe,but how about the GTMC from Claremont Ferrand to Montpelier,it is excellent,many off road with the vast majority on gravel but some excellent singletrack. We did it carrying tent,stove etc. and had no problems.
Here are some photos... http://www.flickr.com/photos/carlandsian/sets/72157624933743513/
It really is worth doing
More ideas on this thread
http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/mountainbiking-touring-holiday-ideas-please
I also did a tour round the Netherlands last year - really enjoyed that - just pleasant pootling around
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25846484@N04/sets/72157624977918769/
lots to look at and think about there.
Thanks guys.