Tenerife, Canaries

The largest of the Canary Islands is situated 200 miles off the west coast of North Africa on the same latitude as the Sahara Desert, so year-round warm temperatures are more predictable than in more northern European cycling destinations. With average winter temperatures between 18-24 degrees Celsius, practically non-stop sunshine and low precipitation in the lower lands, the only real issue that cyclists might face is that it can be pretty gusty on this island.

Around a three-to-four hour flight from central Europe, Tenerife has cemented its role as a handy winter cycling destination. A favourite of pro-cycling teams, they descend here for altitude training on the island’s volcanic mountain, Mt Teide, whose road ascends up to 2,300 m (but actually tops out at 3,718 m). The Parador de Cañadas Hotel based on the climb is a favourite for people wanting to really up their fitness game, but, be warned, exertion at this altitude really takes its toll on the body–an increased feeling of breathlessness is perfectly normal. Tackling this climb first thing in the morning is the best way to avoid the car hire tourism chain gang on the road down to Puerto de la Cruz.

The south side of the island is in the rain shadow of Mt Teide meaning the landscape is dry and barren, whereas the north is more lush and green –however, this means more precipitation. Most of the beach resorts are found in the south of the island, where there are plenty of coastal towns to accommodate cyclists.