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Islands of Cycling Heaven

By Adam Marsal

Whoever read Treasure Island in their childhood would probably consider the visit to an island as the most adventurous holiday ever. While some islands are not quite suitable for cycling others can be highly recommended. We’ve put together a selection of some of the best cycling islands to help inspire you for your next cycling adventure.

Climb the highest peak of Spain on Tenerife Island

Being the highest mountain in Spain and offering unparalleled climbing, Teide is almost synonyms to high altitude cycle training. Every year the majestic volcano attracts thousands of cyclists from all over the globe.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

After all, how many other places on earth can offer cycling routes (with nearly 40km of continuous climbing) with a climate suitable for cycling throughout the whole year? There are probably over twenty different routes you can take to cycle up Teide with five acting as the main routes. After the ride you can enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine and swim in the ocean.

Teide National Park, Tenerife, Canaries, Spain

Explore Scottish hospitality

Have you ever heard about the Scottish Islands? The Isles of Arran, Jura, Islay or Colonsay? You will experience fabulous quiet country lanes, remote coastal scenes and historical landmarks such as Brodick castle. Many restaurants or local pubs, particularly on Islay, will serve local produce; venison, pork, beef, lamb and salmon are all in abundance.

The isle of Islay, Inner Hebrides

You can also explore all the whisky distilleries on Islay (there are 8 of them such as Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Laphroaig, Caolila to name a few.) The unique island culture and hospitality which only the islanders can provide will leave you feeling warmer than the Malt Whiskey.

Motley adventure on the island of the elves

Iceland is a dream destination for many adventurers. There are few places on this planet as inspiring as the volcanic and temperamental landscape of this island – why restrict yourself to only one or two ways to see it when you could hike, bike and kayak all over it?

In the travel agencies you can ask for guided experiences. An overnight kayaking trip through central Iceland, cycling past geysers and walking over volcanic rock. Once the adventure is done for the day, relax and let the adrenaline ease out of your system. Iceland is a geographical playground and if you’re ok with unpredictable weather, you’d hardly find a better place for your summer biking holiday.

Island of endless spring

What about cycling holiday in the Azores, the most westerly point of European territory, located almost in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean? The volcanic origins of the islands are reflected in the mountains and valleys covered by a rich and varied vegetation, lakes in ancient volcano craters, natural swimming pools by the sea, black sandy beaches, active steaming fumaroles and thermal hot water cascades and fountains.

Your trip would start from the city of Ponta Delgada, which is situated on the largest of the Azores islands; Sao Miguel. Expect riding on a network of beautiful trails. You can enjoy heated pools of Ferraria, whale watching on a boat or visiting the Gorreana Tea plantation.