TOP 7 DESTINATIONS IN EUROPE FOR AUTUMN CYCLING

Autumn is approaching, and with it comes the magic of foliage. Discover the best destinations in Europe to enjoy the show on two wheels!

Autumn has finally arrived: the crisp air and changing colours really make you want to get back to enjoying the outdoors, perhaps on two wheels. If you also love cycling and want to organize something a little different this year, you've come to the right place. In this article we will propose the best cycling destinations to enjoy foliage in Europe and Italy. The sight of the leaves changing colour will be even more beautiful and fairytale-like, in the right setting!

1. Italy: dream itineraries in Monferrato

Monferrato, among plateaus and gentle hills, is criss-crossed by hundreds of paths that can also be travelled by bicycle. Here, the high forest cover and the abundant presence of vines make autumn an unforgettable spectacle. The deep red of the vines, the yellow and dark orange of the deciduous woods, the fine mist that makes everything even more magical will captivate you! We recommend a visit, strictly by bicycle, to the village of Frassinello Monferrato: here you can enjoy a beautiful view of all the surroundings, and visit the ancient local castle. Or, you could dedicate yourself to finding one of the many Big Benches in the area. Don't forget that the Monferrato is a land of intense flavours, particularly in autumn: once you get off your bike, you can taste the prized white truffles of nearby Alba, or discover the delicious local wines.

 

2. Italy: discovering foliage on the Asiago Plateau

The Asiago Plateau is very popular in summer with cycling enthusiasts, thanks to the abundance of trails of all difficulties, and the beauty of the landscape. But you should know that this area becomes simply exceptional in autumn. The Plateau's forests turn red, yellow, orange, in a riot of colour so beautiful that it has become a tourist attraction, with a dedicated festival. Hop on your bike and ride the Sentiero delle Malghe: you won't regret it!

 

3. Germany: Neuschwanstein Castle, between forests and lakes

You probably already know Neuschwanstein Castle, even if you have never heard of it! You must know, in fact, that the castle featured in the Disney logo really exists and is in Germany, a few kilometres from Munich. This fairy-tale construction, completed in the early 20th century, is now a popular tourist destination. It was here that Wagner found inspiration for some of his most famous musical works, and by visiting the place you will find out why: the mysterious forests surrounding the castle turn all shades of red and gold during the autumn, becoming simply stunning. This area is particularly bike friendly: you can reach the Castle by bike, or take a tour around the lake on comfortable bike paths. Don't forget to try a Bratwurst before you get back in the saddle!

 

4. Poland: the endless wonder of the Bialowieza Forest

Where is the best place to get lost and stare for hours at the endless shades of colour of autumn leaves? In a hypothetical list, a forest is definitely the number one candidate! The Bialowieza Forest in Poland will not disappoint: it is wild, unspoilt and so beautiful - and extensive - that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can even cycle some trails through it, and take a closer look at the beauty of the centuries-old oaks that have made this area famous. And that's not all: with a bit of luck, you will be able to observe some specimens of the now extremely rare European Bison. This wild and extensive area requires a little preparation before a visit: a good quality MTB, such as those found on Bikester.co.uk and off-road tyres with a good grip factor are indispensable.

 

5. United Kingdom: discover the wild Scottish Highlands

If you are interested in the wilds of Europe, you will certainly have already heard of the Highlands in Scotland. The 'Highlands' are largely uninhabited, but no less rich in life. Here, among the forests and rich waterways, so many animal and plant varieties thrive that it makes your head spin! Over time, this area has become increasingly welcoming to slow travellers, whether on foot or by bicycle: all the Highlands are criss-crossed by well-maintained off-road trails. To begin your exploration, we suggest you start at the Hermitage Forest in Dunkeld, Tolkien's inspiration for writing The Lord of the Rings. Needless to say, the foliage here is truly spectacular: the area's many tree species create an unforgettable riot of colour.

 

6. Finland: the magic of Lapland in autumn

Does the word Lapland immediately make you imagine an icy, snowy landscape and Father Christmas in front of the fireplace? You'll have to think again: because this area, so magical and charming during the winter period, also has a lot to offer in autumn. The Finns love foliage so much that they have coined a term for the spectacle of leaves changing colour: ruska. And one of the Finns' favourite places to enjoy ruska is Lapland, just before the snow season. This destination is one of the absolute best in Europe for cycle tourism: cycle paths are literally everywhere, both in the cities and in the heart of the forests. If you visit Lapland in late autumn, the crunchy, colourful leaves on the trails will not be the only attraction... With a bit of luck, you may catch a glimpse of the first northern lights of the season!

 

7. France: the great beauty of foliage in Provence

Foliage is not the exclusive preserve of Northern Europe, quite the contrary! The Mediterranean belt will also know how to amaze and fascinate you. To observe the leaves gently falling from the trees and their magnificent colours, Provence is perfect. In this area, you can enjoy both cycling and off-road trails in the heart of the local forests, or walk along the fascinating Rhône river. Don't forget to also visit Avignon: the imposing cathedral is even more beautiful in autumn colours. If you prefer off-road routes in the middle of nature, we also suggest a visit to the Camargue: there are plenty of riding routes, and they are also perfect for bicycles. This wetland area does, however, require a little attention to equipment: better to get yourself some waterproof, high-visibility technical trousers.

 

Europe is rich in nature: on the Continent and on the islands you can find an incredible variety of different landscapes, and always discover new animal and plant species. If you too are enchanted by the incendiary yet poetic colours of autumn, a foliage tour by bike will be ideal for you. In this article, you've seen some of the most bike-friendly destinations to admire this spectacle of nature, and we know you're ready to go... But don't forget to prepare yourself properly: you'll find everything you need on Bikester.co.uk