Vietnam is one of the most compelling cycling destinations on earth. The roads are varied, the landscapes are extraordinary, and the culture rewards curiosity at every turn. But what makes an ESC Vietnam tour truly memorable isnt just what happens on the bike its where you end up when the riding is done.Weve chosen accommodations that complement the rides, reflect the regions, and give you something worth looking forward to at the end of every stage. Heres a full overview of where we stay across our Vietnam Gravel North: Hanoi to Hoi An and Vietnam Gravel South: Hoi An to Saigon tours.Urban HotelsVietnams elegant, storied capital kicks off Vietnam Gravel North: Hanoi to Hoi An. The stylish Hotel de Lagom, in the district surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake, is the perfect base for exploring the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, and the lake promenade itself.Meanwhile, our Vietnam Gravel South: Hoi An to Saigon concludes in Ho Chi Minh City. Our hotel, Nhat Ha lOpera, puts us 5 minutes from the Opera House, Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market. The sky bars nearby are the ideal way to close out the tour with a sunset over the metropolis.Hidden GetawaysContrasting with the heady atmosphere of the large cities, our rides take us to some little-traveled locations where we find peace and the majesty of Vietnams pristine landscapes. On the northern leg, the Seabird Hotel sits on a remote stretch of coastline rarely visited by foreigners. A few days later, we overnight in Khe Sanh on the Ho Chi Minh Highway with the Van Kieu people a lofty mountain stop thats more memorable than any five-star.Nearing the coast, Vedana Lagoon Resort and Spa awaits perched above Vietnams largest lagoon, with views to the mountains and out to sea. Trade the bike for a kayak or a poolside chair.On the southern leg, Haven is a boutique hotel tucked into a storybook cove at the end of a fishing village. Wood-fired pizza, craft beers, and evenings under the stars with the sound of the surf.Cultural ImmersionHue once Vietnams imperial capital is surrounded by palaces and mausoleums laid out according to feng shui. Azerai la Residence sits perfectly within this setting, with the major sites all accessible on foot.In Hoi An a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient trading port Anantara Hoi An puts you 5 minutes from the morning seafood market, the Japanese bridge, and the best local food scene in Vietnam.In Nha Trang, the Cham Towers of Thap Po Nhagar overlook the Cai River. Champa Island Resort sits on an island in that same river, with direct sightlines to the towers still used for worship today.Rejuvenating ResortsLamori Resort & Spa sets the tone on night two of Vietnam Gravel North open structures among ponds and streams, built for recovery. Further in, Sun Spa Resort & Villas in Dong Hoi delivers a white-sand beach and pool bar after a big day in the mountains.Vietnam Gravel South also delivers on resorts. Coco Land Thu Xa Resort sits in a naturally rich estuary where rivers flow into the South China Sea natural materials, local seafood, and genuine calm. A couple of days later, Stelia Beach Resort in Tuy Hoa is a striking architectural creation on a vast stretch of beach, combining Mediterranean scale with bamboo structures and a pool right on the sand.Further south, Hoan My Resort beckons from its own beachfront setting a bright modern building, pool that meets the sea, and a sunrise worth waking early for before the final ride to Saigon.In their design, tone, and character, our accommodations in Vietnam reflect the diversity of this dynamic and vibrant country. Our destinations truly become journeys and experiences in themselves.Want to learn more about our cycling routes? Check out our Vietnam Tours!The post The Best Hotels in Vietnam On a Cycling Tour appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

Everyone thinks they know Belgium. Cobblestones. Beer. Waffles. Chocolate. The Tour of Flanders on a grey April Sunday with 50,000 people on a muddy berg and someones dad crying into his Jupiler.Thats all real. But its not the whole story. Here are the things about Belgium that most cyclists even the ones whove ridden the Koppenberg, drunk the Kwaremont, and eaten frites at the finish still dont know.There are over 3,000 castles. More per square kilometre than anywhere else on earth.Belgium is roughly the size of Maryland. Inside it, there are more than 3,000 castles more per square kilometre than any other country in the world, with around 300 open to the public. The rest are just there. On a ridge. Behind a tree line. At the end of a farm track youll turn down by accident on day two of a tour.This is not a country that makes a fuss about its castles. There are no signs. No gift shops on the approach. Youll be deep in the Ardennes, grinding up a climb that your legs are begging you to stop on, and youll crest the top and see a 14th-century fortress across the valley, completely unremarked upon, as if it were a barn. It is a very Belgian thing to have extraordinary things and treat them like furniture.Riders who come to Belgium for the Spring Classics spend several days riding through one of Europes densest collections of medieval architecture without ever quite registering it, because all their attention is on the road surface twelve inches in front of their wheel. Which is understandable. But a shame.The bars never close.Belgium has no legally mandated closing time. Bars are not required to shut. Ever.This is worth sitting with for a moment, especially if youre from North America, where last call is a law of nature somewhere between gravity and death and taxes. In Belgium, the decision of when to stop serving is left entirely to the bar owner, who typically makes this decision based on whether anyone is still there and whether they themselves would like to go to bed.This is not a loophole or a quirk. It is a considered position on the relationship between adults and alcohol, which Belgium has been thinking about for a long time. Belgian beer culture is UNESCO-recognised intangible cultural heritage in the same category as Fado for the Portuguese and tango for Argentinians.There are over 1,500 types of Belgian beer. The Trappist monasteries of the Ardennes have been brewing since the Middle Ages. The Orval Abbey, deep in the forest near the Luxembourg border, produces one beer one and has done so since 1931. It is one of only thirteen breweries in the world permitted to use the Authentic Trappist Product label. You can drink it at a table outside the 12th-century ruins that the monks are still restoring, if you want to feel appropriately small.For cyclists, the post-ride beer in Belgium is not a reward. It is a cultural institution. The Kwaremont beer is 6.6% alcohol precisely matching the gradient of the Oude Kwaremont climb its named after, served in a glass with a base designed to look like cobblestones. This level of commitment to the bit is very Belgium.Theres a word for a type of person that doesnt exist anywhere else.Flandrien.You wont find an equivalent in French, Spanish, English, or any other language, because the thing it describes doesnt really exist anywhere else. A Flandrien is not the strongest rider, not the most aerodynamically gifted it is the one who keeps turning the pedals on the cobbles in driving rain and crosswind until everyone else has cracked. Endurance as identity. Suffering as a personal philosophy.The word has a history that makes it more interesting still. It was originally an insult used for Flemish seasonal workers who travelled to French mines, seen as rough, stubborn, expendable. It became a badge of honour. The cycling culture of Flanders took that word, which was meant to diminish, and turned it into the highest compliment the region knows how to give.Eddy Merckx the greatest racing cyclist who ever lived, winner of five Tours de France, eleven Monuments, and 525 professional races is called a Flandrien. He grew up in Brussels, which isnt even Flanders. It doesnt matter. The Flandrien ideal is about character, not geography: the rider who refuses to be broken by conditions. It is a moral category as much as a cycling one.The Spring Classics the E3 Saxo Classic, Dwars door Vlaanderen, the Tour of Flanders exist in part as an annual test of who qualifies. The weather cooperates with this. It almost always rains.You dont earn the title by watching.Did you know we run cycling tours in Belgium?Three of them, in fact. The Cycling Tour of Flanders rides the bergs Koppenberg, Paterberg, Oude Kwaremont guided by Arno, who has spent his career on these roads and will not let you walk the Koppenberg without at least attempting it first. The Flanders & Ardennes tour covers both regions: cobbles in the north, the long Ardennes climbs and castle-dotted valleys in the south. And the Belgium Cycling Holiday, which Arno diplomatically describes as featuring the Monuments a little less but which does not, we should be clear, feature the post-ride beer any less.The bars dont close. The castles arent going anywhere. The roads are exactly as hard as youve been told.Explore our Belgium cycling tours The post Belgium: Bet You Didnt Know appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

Belgium doesnt do gentle. It does cobblestones at 22%, residential streets that double as race finishes, and climbs so short and so brutal that professional cyclists have been filmed walking them on live television. It also produces the best beer in the world, which helps.Cycling in Belgium means two completely different landscapes and two completely different kinds of suffering. In Flanders, in the north, the land is flat until it suddenly, savagely isnt short cobbled climbs called bergs that rise out of farm tracks and decide one-day races in seconds. In the Ardennes, in the south, the roads roll through forested hills and river valleys, and the climbs are longer, steeper, and paved walls of tarmac that grind legs down over a full Monument distance.These are the roads that built the Spring Classics. The Tour of Flanders De Ronde van Vlaanderen runs every spring over the bergs of Flanders. LigeBastogneLige, cyclings oldest Monument, crosses the Ardennes. Every serious cycling fan knows these climbs by name. Every serious cyclist wants to ride them.This is the complete guide to the greatest cycling climbs in Belgium and how to get on them yourself.The Bergs of FlandersThe Flemish term berg means hill. But a Flandrian berg is nothing like a hill in the conventional sense. They are short rarely more than a kilometre and they come out of nowhere, buried in countryside that is otherwise completely flat. The cobblestones that surface them are centuries old, uneven, and brutally efficient at destroying rhythm, sapping power, and separating the riders who belong at the front of the Tour of Flanders from the ones who dont.The race that covers these roads the Ronde van Vlaanderen, or De Ronde is one of the five Monuments of cycling. It began in 1913 and is known for its challenging cobbled climbs and demanding route. In the build-up to De Ronde each spring, the E3 Saxo Classic and Dwars door Vlaanderen use many of the same climbs the same roads appearing week after week, each time with higher stakes.The Koppenberg 620m Average 11.6% Maximum 22% Fully cobbledThe Koppenberg is the most feared climb in Flanders. It rears up like a wall and the grass banks enclose you in a dank corridor as you climb. Theres no real run-up a 90-degree corner in the village of Melden drops riders to a crawl, and the gradient rises immediately on cobbles. In 2024, wet conditions meant only the first ten riders including winner Mathieu van der Poel made it to the top without putting a foot down.There is no shame in that. Better riders than you have done the same thing. The Koppenberg is 620 metres of managed chaos, and surviving it is an achievement regardless of how fast you do it.The Paterberg 360m Average 12.9% Maximum 20.3% Fully cobbledShort, steep and savage. With a tight 90-degree turn leading directly onto the slope, the Paterberg demands timing and nerve. Its origin is one of cyclings better stories a local farmer constructed this 360m cobbled hill himself to attract the Tour of Flanders to his field. Since 2012 it has been the final climb before the finish in Oudenaarde, the launchpad for some of the most decisive attacks in modern Classics racing Peter Sagan in 2016, Mathieu van der Poel in 2020 and 2024. There is a narrow 60cm gutter on the right offering relief from the cobbles. In the race, crowd barriers block it. You, however, are free to use it.The Oude Kwaremont 2.2km Average 4% Maximum 11.6% CobbledThe longest cobbled climb in Flanders and the most strategically important climbed three times in the mens Tour of Flanders, with the final ascent coming with less than 20km remaining. Four percent average sounds manageable. It isnt. The first metres are on tarmac, then the pav starts, the gradient kicks up, and the steepest section hits halfway. As you ride into the village of Kwaremont art galleries, a caf, a locally brewed beer at 6.6% alcohol matching the climbs gradient you still have a kilometre of rough cobbles to the top.The Taaienberg 500m Maximum 16% CobbledA Flanders fixture since 1974. Tom Boonen attacked here so often that fans renamed it the Boonenberg. Ramps of 16% on worn cobblestones that reward aggression and punish hesitation.The Walls of the ArdennesA few hours south of Flanders, Belgium changes completely. The Ardennes is dense forest, river valleys cut deep into limestone, quiet roads through villages that havent changed much in a century. The climbs are paved, not cobbled, but the gradients are unforgiving and unlike the short, sharp bergs of Flanders, Ardennes climbs come after 200+ kilometres of racing, when legs are already gone.This is the terrain of LigeBastogneLige La Doyenne, the Old Lady cyclings oldest Monument, first held in 1892. It is not a race built around one famous cobbled sector or one single climb that decides everything. It is a long, draining, highly selective day in the Ardennes, where the strongest riders are usually forced into showing themselves before the finish. La Flche Wallonne, held midweek before Lige, ends at the summit of one Ardennes climb climbed three times in one race.The Mur de Huy 1.3km Average 9.8% Maximum 26%Mur is French for wall. The Mur de Huy earns the name 1.3km with a maximum gradient of 26% on an S-bend that brings the peloton to a near-halt. La Flche Wallonne has finished here since 1985, the winner determined by whoever can still sprint at the top of a 26% wall after 250km. On race day it becomes a corridor of noise, fans with beer in one hand and frites in the other. On any other day it looks like an unremarkable residential street until you point your front wheel upward.La Redoute 2km Average 8.9% Maximum 20%The defining climb of LigeBastogneLige. Coming less than 40km from the finish, La Redoute lulls you into a false sense of security on the lower slopes before the road narrows, bends left, and hits 1720%. If you dont have the legs here, theres not much chance of coming back. After 200+ kilometres of racing, it is not beautiful. It is a reckoning.How to ride these roadsYou dont need to qualify for a Monument. Our Belgium cycling tours are built around exactly these roads. The Cycling Tour of Flanders takes on the bergs Koppenberg, Paterberg, Oude Kwaremont, Taaienberg guided by Arno, who has spent his career on these roads. The Flanders & Ardennes tour covers both regions: cobbles in the north, long Ardennes climbs in the south. And the Belgium Cycling Holiday, which Arno diplomatically notes features the Monuments a little less though the post-ride Trappist is no less deserved.These are the roads that built the Spring Classics. Theyre waiting for you.Explore Belgium cycling tours The post The Greatest Cycling Climbs in Belgium Flanders, the Ardennes, and the Roads That Decide Monuments appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

Vietnam is a country uniquely suited to adventurers, especially cyclists. We could fill a book with all the unforgettable aspects of riding here. Since 8 is a lucky number in Vietnam, why dont we start with our top 8?Coastal Climbs Vietnam is known mindblowing rollercoaster-like routes that reward physical challenges with spectacular views. On our tour Vietnam Gravel North: Hanoi to Hoi An, the most famous might be the Hai Van Pass (previously featured on Top Gear as one of the worlds top coast roads), a promontory that juts into the South China Sea between Hue and Da Nang, soaring above the crashing surf of the azure waters below. Meanwhile, on Vietnam Gravel South: Hoi An to Saigon, we experience the Ninh Thuan Coast Road, an arid coastal landscape with successive climbs above deserted coastlines and secluded bays.Culinary Cornucopias Refuel during and after the rides with the local specialties, which vary along the entire length of this long, S-shaped country. Think of your bike tour as one long culinary extravaganza, from the ph (hearty noodle soup) in the north, to the m Qung (rice vermicelli with shrimp and pork) of Hi An, to the banh xeo of central and south Vientam. Abundant seafood and Dont forget Vietnams amazing selection of craft beers, either! Tap rooms and breweries beckon throughout, as does boutique kombucha, infused with local herbs and fruit.A Tapestry of Cultures Vietnams deep valleys and river deltas are home to 54 ethnic groups. This stunning diversity of languages, agricultural techniques, clothing styles, foods, and spiritual beliefs makes for a rich and engaging journey. In the North, well encounter the Hmong, Thi, and Mng ethnic groups in their mountain villages, where they live in stilt houses and still tend to the land as their ancestors did. Further south, well see the elaborate Hindu temples of the Cham people, whose empire controlled much of this territory until several centuries ago. Their descendants still live in the region and worship in the same sacred spaces.A Twist Around Every Turn Vietnam is easily one of the worlds most stimulating countries in the which to cycle. One moment, youre navigating a prosperous village market; the next, you are are taking in idyllic views across sparkling rice fields. Cows, chickens, schoolchildren on bicycles everyone shares the road, making your ride at times a communal experience. After these moments of bustle, remote mountain roads bring us solitude and peace. The terrain itself is constantly changing, from broken asphalt to smooth tarmac to chunky gravel. Its the perfect place for a versatile gravel bike!Stunning Accommodations Weve chosen the best of Vietnamese hospitality, with resorts, hotels and guest houses that bring out the authentic flavour of the region while ensuring we get a good dinner and nights rest. Location-wise, the hotels flow seamlessly with the cycling routes weve plotted. Youll also be able to book spa appointments and unwind with some time poolside to keep those muscles fresh for each days ride!From the Urban to the Natural Our tours incorporate Vietnams capital, Hanoi; its southern metropolis, Saigon; and its booming, fastest-growing city, Da Nang, along with other renowned cities and towns along the way. However, the space between is filled with lush, thriving natural beauty. Along winding mountain roads, cycle through nature preserves that are home to rare species. In the south, journey inland to crashing waterfalls and hushed valley roads. The fauna and flora of this country will always steal the spotlight!A Cycling Culture You may have heard of the crazy traffic in Vietnam, but this perception is skewed towards the admittedly chaotic areas in the urban centres. The rural roads that we have chosen for our tours are as safe as any you might think of. Vietnamese drivers are keenly aware that they may come across bicycles, Vespas, and all manner of livestock, so they tend to drive slowly and carefully. Besides being used for recreation among younger Vietnamese, the bicycle is still an important means of transport for citizens of all ages to reach the local market, school, or workplace. In this shared road environment, we can cycle with peace of mind and enjoy the experience!Layered history and a dynamic present Vietnams history spans millenia, and in traveling from north to south, we trace the nations expansion from the early kingdoms around Hanoi. Along the way, well stop in Hue, which was the capital under the last imperial dynasty, the Nguyen; well see the palace and stately old town from which the emperors ruled. Of course, well also explore the history of the Vietnamese resistance against the French and the Americans, which was such a key part of the 20th century. The country rermains staunchly traditional, with Confucian values and family at the fore.However, Vietnam is also embracing the present and modernizing in a dazzling variety of ways. The economy is booming; fashion, the arts, architecture, and technology are evolving quickly along with this newfound prosperity. When you are here, you feel part of a vibrant and exciting country that is finding a new place in the world. This intricate balance between the ancient and the modern makes a cycling tour through Vietnam a revealing and endlessly fascinating adventure.What better way to capture all these contrasting and subtle sensations than by bicycle? Join us on Hanoi to Hoi An by Gravel Bike, Hoi An to Saigon by Gravel Bike, or combine them into a grand Vietnamese journey!The post Top 8 Reasons to Cycle in Vietnam appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

My bike is gathering dust. And Ive never been happier.Its not that I dont want to ride Im desperate to ride but Im up to my eyeballs in the construction of our brand new Nice cycling hub. Its a seven-day-a-week operation. My weekdays are spent doing my usual job plus project-managing the build; weekends are for decorating (yes, when you see that paint smudge that was me).Im also falling more and more in love with Nice. But I feel guilty, becauseGirona has felt like home for a long time now. The weather in Nice in January has been incredible. Sure, theres been some rain and wind, but when the sun comes out and it does so almost every day the sky opens up and the roads start calling me. I can see the climbs from the Port. I know theyre there. I just havent had the time.So what is it about Nice thats been keeping me off my bike? After one month here, here are my top five:1. The Olympia PortSetting up our new Nice hub in the Port is one of the best business decisions weve made. Its a magical place, and I spend most of my time here now watching colourful rowing boats sitting alongside superyachts, the sea shifting from deep blue to silver as the light changes. Im not complaining about the view from my temporary office.But thats not all. There are huge ships anchored in the harbour and the occasional juggernaut rolling through to the ferry. Its a working port, and I love that.Our neighbours an Italian couple running a bistro are lovely. Ive never received a more friendly welcome to a neighbourhood than theyve extended to us. Im still trying to pay for my coffees!Also close by, the good people of Caf du Cycliste are quickly becoming good friends. They saw the potential here long before we did. Chapeau to them and thank you for welcoming us into the Nice cycling community.2. The PeopleIts not just our neighbours, though. From the moment we arrived from the agency who found our property to the supermarket staff Ive been blown away by the friendliness and professionalism here.Which is impressive, because I barely speak French. (I wish Id listened to my French teacher all those years ago. Any youngsters reading this, learn your languages!)Even with broken French and hand gestures, people have been patient and welcoming. Nice is used to outsiders. And right now, were grateful to be among them.3. The ProsI thought Girona had a lot of professional riders. Turns out the Cte dAzur is where they reallylive.Throughout the day, pros roll past the hub, heading for the mountains above the coast, spinning towards Col dze, grinding up Col de la Madone, disappearing into the roads above Mont Chauve.Pogaar rode past the other day. I really hope he tries our new hub once we open.When the worlds best riders roll by your front door on a Tuesday morning, you know youve chosen the right place.4. The FoodWe all know the reputation French food carries buttery croissants, perfect patisserie. And Nice doesnt disappoint. But whats surprised me most is how much varietyand innovationsit alongside that tradition.Its not like Im eating out every night midweek microwave meals are still my go-to after long days on site but when I have ventured out, the mix has been impressive Italian, Thai, Indian its a real melting pot, and Ive eaten so well.Weve found our favourite pizza place down on the Port. Every pizza is gluten-free, and you genuinely cannot tell the difference. Thats a food innovation I can really get behind. Theres even an Irish bar nearby that scratches that itch for traditional pub grub I still carry from England.The service has been consistently excellent too and yes, everyone speaks far better English than I speak French.5. Easy ConnectionsOf course, we knew Nice has an international airport the second largest in France. And we knew there was a tramline that runs right past our new hub. We knew we could drive from Girona to Nice in under six hours, though maybe we hadnt realised quite how beautiful that drive would be.But living here in Nice,itsdifferent. Its been a bit of a dream.Keeping the car parked and jumping on the tram at the Port, then arriving at Nice International Airport just 20 minutes later, feels like a luxury. Living somewhere walkable with great connections makes a huge difference especially when youre building something new and making last-minute trips for supplies.Girona will always feel like home. Its where Eat Sleep Cycle was born, found its identity and its people.I cant wait to get back and dust off my bikeand get back outonto the roads of Catalonia.Although I might just have to sneak in a few spins up Col dze before I leave.The post My Bike Is Gathering Dust (And Ive Never Been Happier appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

Cycling travel is about more than distance or elevation, its about discovering landscapes, cultures, and roads that stay with you long after the ride is over. At Eat Sleep Cycle, weve spent years exploring the worlds best cycling destinations and designing premium cycling tours so you can focus on riding, connecting, and enjoying the journey.Here are our Top 10 Cycling Destinations for 2026 places where we have deep local knowledge, proven routes, and unforgettable cycling experiences waiting for you.ITALYIconic roads, rolling hills, and legendary alpine climbsItaly is pure cycling heritage. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the legendary climbs of the Giro in the Alps and Dolomites, every ride blends history, culture, and exceptional food.Perfect for riders looking for iconic routes, beautiful villages, and world-class coffee stops.Discover Italy cycling destination.FRANCEProvence, the Alps, and beyond sun, elevation, and wine stopsFrance delivers variety like few other destinations: lavender fields in Provence, towering Alpine climbs made famous by the Tour de France, and a deeply rooted cycling culture.Ideal for cyclists who love big climbs paired with unforgettable culinary experiences.Get to know more of France.ANDALUCIAHidden gems, quiet roads, and stunning southern scenerySouthern Spain remains one of Europes best-kept cycling secrets. Expect smooth roads, low traffic, warm weather, and a unique mix of mountains, coastline, and white villages.Ideal for winter training, sunshine riding, and discovering lesser-known routes.Discover Andalucia cycling destination.COLOMBIAHigh-altitude climbs, vibrant culture, and endless adventureHome to some of the worlds greatest climbers, Colombia offers long, demanding ascents combined with incredible energy, hospitality, and passion for cycling.Perfect for riders seeking a physical challenge and a truly immersive cultural experience.Discover Colombia cycling destination.MOROCCOAtlas Mountains and coastal gravel for the ultimate escapeMorocco surprises at every turn epic mountain climbs in the Atlas, remote gravel routes by the Atlantic, and a culture that feels both exotic and welcoming.Ideal for cyclists looking for adventure without traveling too far from Europe.Discover Morocco cycling destination.VIETNAMFresh horizons, tropical roads, and authentic local experiencesVietnam is a sensory adventure. Ride through rice paddies, jungles, coastline, and vibrant cities while experiencing cycling from a completely different perspective.Perfect for curious riders who value culture as much as the ride itself.Vietnam Cyling tours destinations.PATAGONIARemote, dramatic landscapes for true adventure ridersEndless roads, powerful winds, and raw nature define Patagonia. This is cycling at the edge of the world challenging, beautiful, and unforgettable.Designed for riders seeking total disconnection and epic adventure.Findout more about Patagonia as cycling destination..SLOVENIALakes, mountains, and trails that make every pedal stroke unforgettableSmall in size but huge in diversity, Slovenia offers pristine roads, alpine scenery, and peaceful riding environments ideal for relaxed yet rewarding cycling.Its a destination that balances challenge and relaxation, perfect for riders who appreciate scenery as much as performance and those who want variety and beauty packed into every stage.Discover Slovenia cycling destination.GIRONAOur flasship hub and getaway to Europe cycling excellenceGirona is home. With world-class road cycling, endless gravel, ideal weather, and an international cycling community, its one of the best cycling destinations on the planet.Whether youre riding road or gravel, training hard or exploring at your own pace, Girona delivers world-class cycling yearround.Ideal for first-time cycling trips and experienced riders alike.Discover Girona cycling destination.CANARY ISLANDSVolcanic climbs, ocean views, and year-round sunshineThe Canary Islands are a cyclists training playground. Long, uninterrupted climbs rise from sea level to volcanic peaks, with immaculate roads and consistent weather throughout the year.Its the ultimate destination to build fitness, escape winter, and enjoy riding in spectacular surroundings.Ideal for riders focused on training, climbing, and sunshine.Findout more about Canary Islands as cycling destination..The post Top 10 Destinations for 2026 appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

Nice tops the list as one of Europes most iconic cycling destinations. This coastal town has been thescene of many a Tour de France stage finish and start, as well as hosting the Grand Dpart in 1981and 2020; a historic gateway between the Mediterranean coast and the great Alpine climbs of thisgrand tour. It offers the practical advantage of heading straight from the city centre into the nearbymountains, following quiet backroads, conquering legendary cols and sweeping descents that haveshaped our imagination of this magical destination for decades.And its not just the roads. Off-piste there are a host of gravel routes in Nice that take riders weavingthrough the forests of the Estrel Massif, up into rugged and rocky mountains, across ancient donkeytracks trodden in over centuries, and over some of the highest unpaved roads of the Cte dAzur.If youre in town for a European cycling holiday, this classic Nice cycling guide will help you getclipped in and riding the routes that have etched this city into cycling history.NICE ROAD CYCLING ROUTESLEISURE NICE ROAD CYCLING ROUTE: NICE TO CAP DANTIBESThe ride from Nice to Cap dAntibes is a friendly first taste of cycling on the Cte dAzur, following thecoastline westbound and curving through the neighbourhoods of Cros de Cagnes, Le Lautin and LaFontonne. The route doesnt stray too far from sea level, giving you a close up of the local marinas,beaches and seaside towns, with long stretches of smooth road and open views across theMediterranean. Riders easing themselves into the area enjoy modest elevation and a relaxed pace;an ideal coastal loop if youve got first-day-in-the-saddle or recovery-ride energy, or youre simplylooking for a chance to experience the hum and sights of Nice road riding without kicking up into thehigher mountains inland.Nice to Cap dAntibes Route Info Distance: 75 km Elevation: 600 m Level: LeisureINTERMEDIATE NICE ROAD CYCLING ROUTE: NICE TO ZE & COL DE LA MADONEFrom the Eat Sleep Cycle Hub at the citys Port, this classic Nice cycling route heads east along thecoastline before turning inland, climbing steadily through the hillside villages that overlook the azureMed. The road above ze has long been a proving ground for professional cyclists, most famously asthe setting for the Col dze time trial, a traditional finishing stage of ParisNice. Beyond ze, theascent passes through the village of La Turbie and onto the Col de la Madone, a climb known for itsmanageable gradients, quiet tarmac and uninterrupted views back towards the coast. Its one thatdemands a steady effort rather than brute force, a great day-two spin and a first real taste of theclassic climbing that characterises cycling in and around Nice.Nice to ze & Col de la Madone Route Info Distance: 70 km Elevation: 1,500 m Level: IntermediateADVANCED NICE ROAD CYCLING ROUTE: NICE TO COL DE BRAUS & COL DE TURINIOne of the regions great road rides; a long, demanding and beautiful route that carries riders deepinto the Maritime Alps. Leaving Nice, the road gradually kicks up through the Paillon Valley along theCol de Nice, before the energy changes at the foot of the Col de Braus, where percentages hit doubledigits at points on the tight switchbacks these foothills are known for. After descending into Sospel,theres a chance to grab lunch and coffee. Next up is a classic beast, the impressive Col de Turini,with more switchbacks and sudden exposure, gaining height quickly as the road twists towards the1,600 m summit, a frequent feature in the Tour de France. After that, its a gentle 50 km sweep backto Nice. Its a route that demands respect and careful pacing, but rewards effort with expansive viewsand a clear sense of just how far the roads above Nice can carry you.Nice to Col de Braus & Col de Turini Route Info Distance: 115 km Elevation: 2,700 m Level: AdvancedNICE GRAVEL CYCLING ROUTESLEISURE NICE GRAVEL CYCLING ROUTE: NICE TO LA TURBIE & FORT DE LA REVREThis gentle gravel loop offers a quiet introduction to the citys surroundings, climbing gradually aboveNice into the wooded hills that sit between the coast and the high mountains. The route is a mix ofshort stretches of tarmac with wide gravel tracks, winding through Mediterranean forest and openclearings before reaching Fort de la Revre. From here, the views stretch across Monaco, Cap Ferratand the Med, just in case the pines make you forget youre on the Riviera. This is a non-technicalroute ideal for gentle exploration for newbie off-roaders or a calm and scenic rest-day spin. It will liftyou quite literally out of the bustle and into woodland for some serious perspective. Start or end at theEat Sleep Cycle Hub at 11 Quai des Deux Emmanuels at the Port for a ride-inspiring espresso or chatwith our staff.Nice to La Turbie & Fort de la Revre Route Info Distance: 30 km Elevation: 650 m Level: LeisureINTERMEDIATE NICE GRAVEL CYCLING ROUTE: MONT FRION GRAVEL LOOPThe Mont Frion gravel cycling loop takes riders up inland from Nice into quieter, wooded terrain,trading coastal views for a sense of growing remoteness. Experienced roadies that have felt the thrillof a cols multiple switchbacks with relish in the satisfaction of the gravel equivalent. These tracks feelcut into the hills and ancient woodland, making the most of wide fire roads that wind past firs andoaks, with openings that reveal the valleys and ridgelines of the Maritime Alps. This is another 50-50tarmac-gravel ride, where the track is largely rideable throughout, (beware of the odd sandy section),but the sustained climb means this route requires more might than its shorter, coastal cousins. Aclassic Nice gravel route is there ever was one and a great balance between endurance and off-roading. Its a longer day in the saddle, so start out at the Port with a coffee at Eat Sleep Cycle orCaf du Cycliste before heading on your way.Mont Frion Gravel Loop Route Info Distance: 75 km Elevation: 1,900 m Level: IntermediateADVANCED NICE GRAVEL CYCLING ROUTE: VIA DEL SALEThe Via del Sale is one of the most ambitious Nice cycling gravel routes accessible from the Niceregion, tracing an old military and trading road high above the valleys on the border between Franceand Italy. This route requires some logistical planning as a short car journey is required to reach thestart point. But once youre clipped in, the following 100 km offer pure, unspoilt Alpine beauty. Thisroute is a mash-up of ancient donkey tracks, fire roads, ridgelines and switchbacks the ultimatecocktail of memory-making tracks experienced riders dream of. This is the pinnacle of gravel riding onthe Cte dAzur. It might be a few kilometres from the coast itself but if youre in Nice to ride, thisbeast is unmissable.Via del Sale Route Info Distance: 99 km Climbing: 2,800 m Level: AdvancedAny questions? Drop us a message or come and see us at our Eat Sleep Cycle Hub in Nice, at 11Quai des Deux Emmanuels, right on the Port, for a pre-spin espresso.The post Classic Nice Cycling Routes appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

2026 season is already calling.And its calling us back into the mountains.From legendary climbs to overlooked backroads, these are the places were most excited to ride next. Some are having a moment. Others have always been special. All of them deliver big days, big scenery and the kind of riding youll still be talking about years later.If youre dreaming about where to point your wheels next, start here.1) Dolomites, ItalySharp peaks. Endless switchbacks. Proper drama.Why Go NowWith the Winter Games shining a light on the Dolomites in 2026, more eyes are turning to these roads. Weve always known how special they are. 2026 is the perfect time to ride them.Ride theTrans Dolomites Challenge2) Andes, ColombiaHigh altitude. Higher vibes.Coffee legs guaranteed.Why Go NowMedelln and Cartagena are topping travel lists everywhere for 2026. Colombias moment has arrived. Head into the Andes for high altitude, big climbs and unforgettable riding.Ride theClassic Climbs of Medelln3) Julian Alps, SloveniaGreen valleys. Clear lakes. Serious climbs.Why Go NowBecause Tadej says so. And with the European Road Cycling Championships landing in Slovenia this year, theres never been a better time to ride the Julian Alps.Ride theTour of Slovenia4) Ventoux & ProvenceSun. Lavender. One legendary climb.Why Go NowOur newest ESC hub opens in Nice in Spring 2026. More rides, more routes, more people to ride with. From the Med to Ventoux, this is southern France with the ESC community.Ride theTour of Provence5) Mlaga Backcountry, AndalucaWild roads. Zero crowds. Big surprises.Why Go NowThe Montes de Mlaga might be Spains most underrated riding zone in 2026. Minutes from the city. Miles from the noise. Just dont tell too many people.Ride theClassic Climbs of Mlaga6) Atlas Mountains, MoroccoRaw. Remote. Unforgettable.Why Go NowRough Guides ranks Morocco number one country in 2026 based on the abundance of culture and experience. The Atlas Mountains are the ride of a lifetime. And theyre right on Europes doorstep.Ride theAtlas Mountains TourInspired and want to climb with us in 2026? Get in touch right away and our team of cycling experts will be in touch!The post Cycling in the High Mountains of Europe: Inspiration for your 2026 Bucket List appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

Nestled between the shimmering Mediterranean Sea and the dramatic foothills of the Alps, Nice is one of Europes most exciting cycling destinations. Whether youre chasing climbs, exploring vineyards, or cruising coastal roads with sea views, the region offers world-class road and gravel routes just minutes from town. Heres your complete primer to riding in and around Nice, France plus the best places to rest your legs after a big day in the saddle.Why Nice for Cycling?Nice sits at the crossroad of sea and mountains, so within a short ride you can go from flat coastal spins to steep alpine passes. Locals and visiting pros alike enjoy this mix of terrain and sunshine its no wonder the classics like ParisNice finish here each spring.Where To Eat in NiceFood occupies the average cyclists consciousness to a greater degree than most normal people. Whether you arrive starving at dinner time or need to know the best lunch spot, heres our top picks of where to eat and drink in Nice. So far weve found it impossible to find a bad meal.Nice Coffee Shops & BrunchClay, great coffee & brunch menu plus a cool terrace. 4 Rue BonaparteBrume Coffee, for speciality coffee lovers. 34 Rue PairolireCaf du Cicliste Just around the corner from Eat Sleep Cycle youll find Caf du Cicliste. They sell beautiful apparel and serve great coffee. 16 Quai des DocksLunch & DinnerFoam, for delicious craft beers and awesome burgers. 1 Pl. du Pin21 Paysans, an organic produce shop & restaurant. The wine selection is ace and the cheese is epic. 2 Rue ValpergaMezza Luna, on a quiet corner of the port this is the place to go for Italian food in Nice. 1 Rue du LazaretLe San Juan, located on the way back into Nice to the port, this place offers non-stop service and huge portions. Perfect for hungry cyclists! 7 Bd Franck PilatteFine DiningThe Nice area is home to a number of Michel Star restaurants, why not treat yourself to something extra special?Flaveur One of the most acclaimed restaurants in Nice, helmed by brothers Michal and Gal Tourteaux, and the only two-star Michelin restaurant in the cityJAN Highly regarded restaurant in Nices port areaLe Chantecler The long-celebrated restaurant at Htel Negresco, blending historic elegance with modern cuisine.La Chvre dOr (ze) Two Michelin stars in the beautiful perched village of ze with stunning views.Where to Cycle in NiceNow to the important bit, the cycling!*We are building our collection on routes from our new Nice Cycling Hub a link to the full collection is coming soon!*Top Road Cycling Routes1. Balcons & Backroads Vence to NiceA scenic ride from the perched town of Vence down through country roads into the heart of Nice. Expect rolling terrain and beautiful views over the Bay of Angels.Distance: ~50 kmHighlights: Vineyards, quiet backroads, coastal descent into Nice.2. Col de Vence & Les FerresA classic Cte dAzur route with a rewarding climb and sweeping descents. Start in Nice, head north through hillside villages, and finish with a fast run back down to the Mediterranean.Distance: ~64 kmElevation: ~1600 m3. Corniche dOr Coastal LoopJust a short ride west of Nice, the Corniche dOr is one of the most gorgeous roads in southern France winding above turquoise sea and red rock cliffs.*More coming soon, as well as gravel routes!*The best way to find your way around on two wheels is to hire a guide. A local guide will know the Nice area inside out and can impart local knowledge you would otherwise not be privy to! The advantage of having someone showing you the way means you can focus on enjoying your surroundings without worrying about taking a wrong turn!Of course, if you prefer to you can also guide yourself by following a route installed on a device which you can pick up from Eat Sleep Cycle. Or you could simply create your own, hire a bike and just explore!Whichever way you choose to see Nice by bike you will no doubt fall in love with the smooth roads, abundant climbs and fantastic views that it has to offer!Where to Stay: Cyclist-Friendly Accommodation in NiceAfter a big ride, youll want a comfortable base. Here are some great options for cyclists of all styles and budgets:Good valueLe Saint Paul, a fairly priced 3* hotel away from the crowds and with fantastic views of the mediterranean.A touch of luxuryLe Meridian, a 4* pick right on the Promenade des Anglais, this hotel faces the Mediterranean Sea. It is a few steps from the Old Town and offers a panoramic rooftop terrace and an outdoor swimming poolAnother planet!Le Negresco,an Iconic 5* hotel. In the heart of the Riviera, there are places one experiences more than describes. Le Negresco is one such place a dazzling icon, free-spirited and independent, overlooking the endless blue of the Mediterranean. For more than a century, Le Negresco has celebrated art, heritage, and French excellence through a subtle harmony of styles and eras, from the splendour of Versailles to contemporary audacities.To See & Do In NiceWhether youre having a rest day or travelling with a partner who doesnt cycle there are plenty of things in and around Nice to occupy your time outside of pedalling.The BeachThe mediterrean is in touching distance.Wine tastingThere are fabulous vineyards more coming soon!Getting to NiceOf course, the first part to enjoying Nice is getting here! There are numerous ways to travel to the city, depending on where you are coming from.Nice AirportBy far the simplest way to get here is to fly direct into Nice. There are great international connections with flights coming in from all over the world. The city centre is a 20 min tram ride from the Airport exit.Train from London, Paris and other places in EuropeFor those from Europe for whom time is not of the essence the option to take a train may be of interest. Most large city stations will service trains to the area, although beware that you may have to make changes along the way if youre coming with a bike bag and luggage in tow.Drive from other parts of EuropeDriving is also a good option for European-based visitors, southern France can be reached relatively easily and surprisingly quickly from most of Europe just watch out for the tolls!Nice A City for CyclistsWhatever time of year and in whatever capacity you visit Nice its charms are sure to compel you to return. The sheer number of cyclists who settle in the city are testament to how special it really is for two-wheeled exploring! This cyclists guide to Nice is intended to be an up-to-date guide to our new home-city and we will be updating it regularly with any new recommendations and activities so be sure to check back!Nice Cycling ToursNice is much more than a beach destination its a cycling playground with world-class road climbs, hidden gravel tracks, and spectacular Mediterranean views at every turn. Whether youre here for an easy coastal spin or serious alpine climbing, the region delivers a variety of rides that suit all levels.If this has got you inspired to travel to Nice then watch this space for our new collection of Nice Cycling Tours.If youre planning to travel here and dont want to worry about bringing a bike then take a look at our rental bikes in Nice for top-quality, fully-serviced road, gravel and pedal assist e-bikes. If youve any questions about your possible cycling tour to Nice give us a call now on +34 972 649 131 or contact us online for more info!P.S. Enjoyed this blog? Why not sign up to receive notifications every time we post and get regular updates on our latest tours!The post Cyclists Guide To Nice appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

Choosing the perfect Christmas gift for a cyclist can feel like stepping into another world of kit, gear, and technical jargon. But the good news? Whether your loved one rides to stay fit, to explore new places, or simply to clear their head, there are plenty of thoughtful gifts that will genuinely elevate their time on the bike.This guide brings together ten cyclist-approved gift ideas, ranging from small stocking fillers to unforgettable experiences. Each suggestion has been selected for practicality, quality, and that little spark of joy every rider feels when they unwrap something new for the road or trail.Below, youll find our top 10 Christmas gift ideas for cyclists. Simple, smart, and guaranteed to put a smile on any riders face.Here is our top pick for the top 10 Christmas gift ideas for cyclists.1. Cycling SocksIf you are looking for guaranteed success and an inexpensive gift, you can not go wrong with a new pair of cycling socks. You can choose a range of colours from a lightweight Spring/Summer sock or cosier merino Autumn/ Winter sock. 2. Beanie HatWhat better way to show your love than to keep their head cosy and warm? This beanie hat which is made from soft, 100% organic cotton is soon to get them on your side on a cold day, plus it is available in 4 fabulous colours. 3. Eat Sleep Cycle Bib TightsLets face it, cycling kit has gotten too expensive. Which is why our 0 km high quality thermal bib tights at just 115 are an absolute bargain. Dont let the price fool you, these are high quality and will last at least a decade of Winters. 4. Bike Hire Gift VoucherOur recommendations are not limited to awesome cycling products. Why not treat your loved one to the ultimate gift a cycling experience. First up is a bike hire voucher which can be used at any of our Cycling Hubs in Girona, Mlaga and Nice. Available from just 10 to 500, they can ride the bike of their dreams without breaking the bank.5. Mobile Phone CaseIs your loved one an avid cyclist who rides rain or shine? If so and especially if they have a nice mobile phone, this phone case could be the perfect gift for them. Available in 3 amazing colours, this will protect their mobile phone in the event of adverse weather conditions. 6. T-ShirtWith 25 designs to choose from, these 100% organic cotton t-shirts are a dream for avid cyclists to remind them of their favourite riding destinations. 7. Eat Sleep Cycle Base LayerIf you want a thoughtful, great-value gift with a touch of personality, the Love Speed Base Layer is a wonderful choice. Lightweight, breathable, and sleeveless, its designed to sit comfortably under any cycling kit and add a little extra warmth on cooler days.8. Ex-Rental BikeAre you trying to get a partner into cycling? Maybe they need a bike upgrade for extra motivation to do the Festive 500? It is the perfect time of year to buy one of our ex-rental bikes. These bikes are usually only 6 months old, come with the original manufacturers warranty and benefit from a full professional service before shipping. Plus we ship worldwide! 9. Tour VoucherIf you are not the material type and we understand you, then the ultimate Christmas gift is a cycle tour gift voucher. Available from 500 to 5000 for the more generous of you out there, this voucher can be used on any of the Eat Sleep Cycle 100+ itineraries in 13+ countries.10. Online Shop voucherIf you can not decide what to buy your loved one then an online shop gift voucher could be just the trick. Available from 10 to 500, they can then choose from our 2000+ products at their convenience.ConclusionFinding the perfect gift for a cyclist doesnt have to be complicated. The best presents are the ones that enhance their riding, fuel their passion, or create new experiences. Whether you choose a simple stocking filler or a once in a lifetime adventure, each idea on this list has the power to make your favourite riders Christmas truly unforgettable.If youd like help choosing the right size, the best bike, or the ideal tour, the Eat Sleep Cycle team is always here to guide you.The post Top 10 Christmas Gift Ideas for Cyclists appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.