When the UK summer cycling season comes to its usual abrupt end, many riders stash away their bikes until spring, which, given the state of our current weather, is understandable.
But autumn is actually one of the best times of year to ride, and if it is a little too wet to stop for spiced Pumpkin lattes, then how about going abroad: dryer weather, quieter roads, and landscapes transformed by autumn light. And let’s be honest, not everyone can get away for a week in the middle of the summer holidays anyway.
Mallorca might be the classic choice (for a good reason), but if you’re ready to look beyond its well-trodden roads, here are some of Europe’s best alternative autumn cycling destinations.
Girona, Spain
Girona has long been a training hub for pro cyclists, and it’s easy to see why. The city is surrounded by quiet country lanes, rolling routes, and iconic climbs like Els Àngels and Rocacorba. In autumn, the tourist crowds thin, while the weather stays reliably warm at 18–24°C.
Why go in autumn? Comfortable riding temperatures, lively cafés, and peaceful roads.
Best for: Riders who want a mix of rolling rides and famous climbs.
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The Dolomites, Italy
If you’re a climber at heart, the Dolomites are unforgettable. Legendary passes like Passo Giau, Passo Pordoi, and the Stelvio become quieter after summer, and the crisp autumn air makes those long ascents far more manageable. Add in golden light bouncing off jagged limestone peaks, and you’ve got cycling paradise.
Why go in autumn? Cooler conditions and fewer tourists than peak season.
Best for: Strong riders chasing epic climbs and dramatic scenery.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Unique volcanic landscapes, rolling windswept roads, and the famous Ironman bike course. Autumn temperatures are mid to late 20s and conditions are great for base miles. Just pack shallow section wheels-it can get very windy there.
Why go in autumn: Reliable sunshine, scenic climbs and loads of triathletes!
Best for: Triathletes and riders who enjoy long, steady efforts in striking scenery.
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The Algarve, Portugal
Too often overlooked, the Algarve has everything you want from a cycling escape: smooth roads, rolling inland hills, rugged coastal views, and near-guaranteed sunshine. In autumn, temperatures stay at a perfect 20–25°C, and the summer crowds have disappeared.
Why go in autumn? Sunshine, quiet roads, and excellent value.
Best for: Riders who want a relaxed cycling holiday with reliable weather.
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Provence, France
Think vineyard-dotted valleys, quiet stone villages, and of course, Mont Ventoux looming in the distance. Autumn in Provence brings mild 20°C days, colourful vineyards, and almost empty roads. It’s the perfect balance of cultural charm and cycling challenge.
Why go in autumn? Pleasant weather, autumn colours, and world-class food and wine.
Best for: Cyclists who want a blend of iconic climbs and relaxed rides.
Calpe, Spain
On Spain’s Costa Blanca, Calpe has become a go-to training base for pro teams and with good reason. The area offers a huge variety of riding, from steady coastal roads to iconic climbs like the Coll de Rates. In autumn, the weather is still warm (20–26°C), but without the stifling heat of midsummer, and the roads are noticeably quieter.
Why go in autumn? Warm, dry weather, challenging climbs, and the chance to ride where the pros train.
Best for: Riders who want reliable sunshine and varied terrain, from flat coastal spins to big mountain days.
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Tenerife, Canary Islands
If you’d rather stretch summer a little longer, Tenerife is the place. Its year-round sunshine, smooth roads, and iconic Mount Teide climb (over 2,300m) make it a favourite among pros and amateurs alike. In autumn, you’ll find warm but comfortable riding conditions without the scorching mid-summer heat.
Why go in autumn? Reliable sunshine, huge climbs, and silky roads.
Best for: Riders chasing warmth and serious climbing.
Slovenia (Julian Alps)
Slovenia is fast becoming one of Europe’s most exciting cycling destinations. The Vršič Pass,with its cobbled hairpins is unforgettable, and the scenery around Lake Bled looks like it’s been lifted straight out of a painting. In autumn, the forests burst into colour, making every ride spectacular.
Why go in autumn? Stunning autumn foliage and an undiscovered feel.
Best for: Adventurous riders looking for somewhere different.
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A quick word on insurance…
You knew it was coming; it’s our blog after all!
If you’re heading abroad with your bike this autumn, make sure you’ve got the right insurance cover in place. Whether it’s protecting your bike, covering trip cancellations, or giving you peace of mind if things go wrong, it’s one less worry, so you can focus on the riding. Yellow Jersey offers Bicycle insurance which covers your bike for accidental damage, crash damage, damage by an airline and much more. You can get a quote for bicycle insurance here.
Yellow Jersey also offers cycling travel insurance, designed to cover emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, trip abandonment, repatriation, liability cover and much, much more. You can get a quote and buy cycling travel insurance here.
