Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve is known for its relaxed sunny culture and offers year-round cycling. While it’s perhaps more renowned for its pristine golf courses, this area in the corner of the continent offers just as much for carbon lovers as it does for the iron ones.

The Ecovia do Litoral is a cycle route linking Vila Real de Santo António, situated on the Spanish border with Cabo de Saifo Vicente (Sagres) in the west. This trail navigates through nature reserves along stretches of car-free paths. Roads caress beaches, lagoons and coves along the Atlantic, whilst fishing villages along the route treat you to Moorish architecture and Roman ruins. Whatever it is, it all provides you with a good reason to stop off and take a break.

Known as one of the sunniest parts of Europe, the Algarve has its own micro-climate, which means the scenery is more arid than the north due to a lot lower precipitation, even during the winter months. Despite being located next to the Atlantic, it has a natural propensity to throw in a stormy day or two. Pack wisely.