Five amazing cycle paths in Europe

We've found five amazing cycle paths to take you on a cycling adventure through Europe!

Feeling like doing something different this year? How about a cycling holiday?!

It’s a great way to see the countryside, visit different cities and countries and…. exercise! Knowing where to go, or which paths to choose can be difficult. But don’t worry, here at Hostelsclub we have picked five amazing cycle paths in Europe to help you plan your next adventure. They all vary in difficulty and length, so pick the one for you, grab your bike, and ride! Of course, all of these routes can be done in small sections, or as a long ride over a week or two.

1. FRANCE: The Canal du Midi

Photo: Rob Glover

This beautiful (and totally flat!) cycle route takes you along a 240 km long canal through the south of France, from the city of Toulouse down to Etang de Thau near the Mediterranean sea. Weaving through both countryside and city suburbs and of course, along with the green and serene canal, this route is perfectly flat and a great ride. Officially, the route is both a towpath as well as a cycle path, so don’t expect the whole route to be easy riding! It is known to get a bit bumpy at times, but that is part of the fun! Of course, going through some of the sunniest areas of France it’s best to cycle here during the spring or Autumn unless you want to get a serious tan. The route ends in Toulouse, so check out our hostels there, and enjoy some days in the beautiful city.

2. CROATIA: The Dalmatian Coast

Photo: Markus Bernet

Running between Pula and Dubrovnik, this amazing cycling route takes you down the famous Dalmatian Coast in with views of the Adriatic sea and the rugged and ever-changing Croatian coastline, with the stunning light blue and green sea. There are plenty of incredible beaches to stop at on the way if you get tired, and national parks to visit, as well as many small coastal towns. And of course, when you finish, you can always spend a few days in Dubrovnik, and take a well-earned rest! If your interested in what to do when you get there, take a look here.

3. ENGLAND: The Downs and Weald route

Photo: little_potato

This long-distance cycle route takes you from London to the historic city of Hastings. It’s a pretty long distance at 263 km, but you don’t have to do it all! Starting in London, the route heads through the countryside down to the southern coast of the country, allowing you to see the great British countryside along the way. You could stop over in Brighton, a traditional English seaside town, for a couple of days as you follow the path. Don’t expect to find sun, but you have to try some traditional fish and chips, eat some rock sweets or have a walk down the pier. You can also play in the famous arcades, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel overlooking the sea. Then, when you're done, get back on your bike, and keep heading down the coast until you get to Hastings!

4. SPAIN: El Camino Santiago route

Photo: gustavoboulhosa

You have probably heard of this famous route, that pilgrims usually follow on foot towards the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, but it has now been developed also for cycling. This means you can now cycle your way to the famous cathedral, enjoying the sights along the way! The route takes you through a varied landscape and many small Spanish towns, and of course, you don’t have to do the entire route if you don’t want too: if you follow the Camino Francés it’s around 775 km long! It begins in France, in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, going through cities such as Pamplona, Logrono, Burgos and Leon before reaching the cathedral in Santiago. Check out our hostels in France and the hostels in Spain to help you plan your trip!

5. AUSTRIA & HUNGARY: From Vienna to Budapest

Photo: tappnancs

This scenic route begins in Vienna and follows the Danube river through various countries, including Austria, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia, passing through towns and villages to end in the amazing Budapest. Along the route, you can explore cities with a mix of architectural styles, such as Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, or simply admire the ever-changing scenery as you go from country to country. To see our hostels in the lovely city of Vienna, click here.

So what are you waiting for? Book your next cycling adventure soon!