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Fed up with the awful summer cycling weather that the UK has had this year? For the best all year cycling weather and choice of terrain pack your helmet and shorts and book flights to Cyprus.
Cycling is big business in Cyprus. Apart from July and August when it just gets too hot, unless setting off very early, the weather is ideal all year round. When it does rain it is heavy but it doesn’t happen too often.
For UK cyclists there is the advantage that if using the roads, Cypriots drive on the left and the road rules are familiar, but take care on main roads from June to September when unfamiliar tourists can be a hazard. But it’s the other cycle routes that really make the experience. Rocky mule paths, rough cobbled tracks and Alpine roads suitable for imitating Tour de France heroes, Cyprus has it all.
For lazy days and beginners there are the flat smooth coastal routes and miles of pine forest trails and even a few local companies that provide an uplift service to take you and your bike to the highest part of a trail to let you take the downward journey at your ease.
If you are inseparable from your beloved bike compare flights to see the best options for shipping your two wheeled companions out with you but if you want to leave your bike at home or its not suitable for all terrains there is an abundance of hire options either as part of a cycling holiday package or for the independent cyclist. Prices are very reasonable and the hire shops will have maps and guides for those needing assistance in choosing routes.
If you want to get right out into the wilds it may be advisable to hire a guide. Some of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of the island are those where it is easiest to get lost. The guides will not only know the best routes to see the best of the island, but also those which fit your ability and program. Guides will also carry spares, medical kits and often have vehicle support just a call away. Most of all you can save your day from the frustrations of losing your way and not getting to your destination as planned, spoiling your itinerary.
The west of the island is regarded as the best for cycling, with the unspoilt Akamas Peninsular in the northwest corner a favourite for some rugged trails, and the Troodos Mountains for spectacular mountain biking. The mountains should be avoided in January and February due to snowfall. The pine trails of the Paphos Forest offer a shady alternative for the warmer parts of the day in the summer.
Companies such as Wheelie Cyprus will provide all the information you need as well as offer great hire shop and routes. They also provide complete packages holidays with the pace set by the group and plenty of opportunity to relax after cycling.
However you choose to do it the miserable UK weather will be left far behind as you experience all the freedom of cycling Cypriot style.