What can be more perfect than jumping on a tandem together and rolling through French vineyards or along the coastal cliffs of Portugal with your other half?
Riding a tandem allows cyclists – no matter what their abilities – to stick together and enjoy the surroundings rather than one person constantly playing catch up. They are ideal for couples who otherwise may be separated by a stretch of tarmac rather than appreciating the views together. Having two people on the bike also means that tackling tricky hills is easier than pedalling alone.
Here, self-guided cycling holiday specialist Headwater has highlighted five of its most romantic tandem cycling tours to enjoy with a loved one.
Their tandem bikes are also fitted with panniers and the majority have ‘Ride With GP’ technology – which has turn by turn audio instructions – so whoever is in the back seat won’t need any map reading skills.
Cotes du Ventoux, France
There are few things more romantic than a tandem cycle with your significant other around the vineyards and olive groves of southern France, and this trip allows just that. This cycling paradise cascades through colourful medieval towns and villages, all against the stunning backdrop of Mount Ventoux. Highlights of this self-guided cycling tour include 12th-century Vacqueyras, Beaumes-de-Venise – famous for its Muscat wine – and the town of Mazan. The trip ends in Pernes-les-Fontaines, which has a delightful old town complete with over 40 ancient stone fountains to marvel at.
Puglia, Italy
Puglia is firmly tucked away on the heel of Italy’s boot, offering extraordinary beauty and dramatic, rugged coast which is perfect to explore by bicycle. The self-guided cycling tour begins in Conversano and ends in the historic town of Monopoli. Cyclists will stop off in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the postcard-pretty village of Ostuni. One of the over-night stays includes accommodation in a restored 17th century masseria – a fortified farmhouse – surrounded by 200 hectares of ancient palms and olive trees, perfect for a romantic stroll after a sunny day on a tandem.
Catalonia, Spain
The rocky coastline of Catalonia offers a gentle cycling route, occasionally meandering off-road through olive groves, peach orchards and pine forests. Couples biking through the region will pass through medieval fishing villages, calling at Peratallada and Begur. All the carefully selected hotels along the route have swimming pools, so a cool dip can be enjoyed after a day exploring the countryside.
Passau to Vienna
The route from Passau, on Germany’s eastern border, to Vienna is one of the most popular cycle paths in Europe. This stretch of the Danube has an abundance of historical landmarks to enjoy; 60 dramatic castles and palaces lie along the river and the landscape is dotted with fertile plains, narrow gorges, forests and picturesque vines. Highlights on the self-guided route include the bustling medieval centre of Linz, the 11th century Baroque abbey at Melk, and the UNESCO-celebrated Krems.
Porto, Portugal
This relaxing route down Porto’s coastline is almost completely flat, so it’s perfect for first-time cyclists. The trail passes world-famous wine cellars and includes plenty of beach and bay hopping. There is also a visit to the Aveiro Lagoon, which is home to pink flamingo and other colourful birdlife.
This month Headwater are partnering with John Lewis from the 6 – 28 February 2020, and to celebrate this each trip booking made with Headwater will receive a £50 John Lewis voucher.
