Why We Love Short Break Cycling Holidays

While we’d all like to escape for at least a week or two, it can sometimes be tricky to find the time to spare. Work and family commitments mean that it’s not always possible to jet off for as long as we’d like to.

Cycling for Softies offer short breaks of three nights or more – perfect for outdoorsy types in need of a little relaxation. Here are just a few benefits of choosing a weekend getaway.

1. Maximum Time Away  

As you’ll be flying to neighbouring France, you’ll enjoy a short flight time – often under two hours. We also organise quick transfers to your accommodation via taxi, which means less time spent travelling, and more relaxing. You could leave your house in the morning and be exploring the Provence countryside by the afternoon.  

What’s more, you’d be surprised at how much you can pack into three days away. To start with, how about pedalling through the medieval riverside towns in the Loire Valley, which are studded with ancient architecture and quaint cafes? Next, tuck into traditional delicacies such as Sainte-Maure cheese on crusty bread, before finishing the day with a dégustation, or ‘tasting’, of local Sancerre wine as the sun goes down behind the grapevines. And that’s just day one. 

2. Charming Locations  

These short tours will lead you on a snaking route through France’s verdant countryside, past wide-open crop fields, sloping vineyards and tranquil rivers. Choose from itineraries which explore the grand Châteaux of the Loire or the lavender fields of Provence. In lush, rural France, the leisurely pace (not to mention the peace and quiet) will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

3. Short – but Sweet – Adventures 

Our short breaks provide you with a sense of escapism without multiple days off work, long-haul flights and all of the other troublesome logistics that a longer time away can entail. These fun-size trips allow you to sample some of our most sought-after destinations without signing up for a longer holiday. The getaways on offer range from three to seven nights, so you can pick the duration that best suits your schedule.  

4. Family-Friendly Trips

A short holiday with us is ideal for introducing young children to riding a bicycle without committing to a longer period, and can usually be fitted into the school holidays. For those trying this activity for the first time, or curious about how our holidays work, these breaks provide a fantastic taster.  

5. Spoil Yourself

Alternatively, take some time out as a couple and enjoy a special weekend together. After a day’s cycling, treat yourself to a Michelin-starred restaurant or a boutique chateau hotel, head to the spa or enjoy a tasting at a local vineyard. There’s no doubt you’ve both deserved a weekend to yourselves.

Our Favourite Short Breaks

Take a look at some of our favourite short breaks, where you can enjoy a taste of what these golden regions have to offer. You can find even more of our short breaks here.

1. Châteaux of the Loire

One of our most popular cycling holidays, this leisurely escape into the Loire Valley is filled with fairytale castles, charming towns, elegant food and fantastic cycle routes. With a four nights itinerary, this is a fantastic choice for your short break. Potentially also one of our easiest cycling holidays, beginner cyclists will rejoice in our gentle routes.

2. Luberon Valley Vistas

The most charming corner of the region, the Luberon Valley is perhaps most well known for the lavender bloom in the summer. The very air of the region is perfumed and entire vistas are painted purple. Our four night itinerary offers you the chance to enjoy a long weekend in Provence or a mid-week break.

3. Cotswolds in Luxury

To make the most of your time away, a staycation is often the best choice. That’s why our indulgent Cotswolds tour has a four night itinerary, for those who want a quick escape to the countryside. Enjoy spa treatments, relaxing scenery and cosy pubs in this Area of Outstanding natural Beauty.

4. Catalonia from Mountains to Sea

This corner of Spain has some of the best cycling in the country. Although most known for the gorgeous coastline, the mountains and countryside of Catalonia are terrific to explore. our itinerary has a short break option, for that quick burst of Spanish sunshine that’s always in need.

If you are interested in finding out more about our short breaks, speak to our experts on 0207 471 7760.