Cycling Themed River Cruises in Europe

River cruises in Europe are an increasingly popular holiday choice for the discerning traveller looking for a unique and special experience. You'll spend your days travelling at a leisurely pace through glorious European countryside, visiting local attractions and indulging in delicious traditional cuisine and fine wines along the way. While you sit back on the sunny deck of the barge, the crew are taking care of the cabins and making sure the barge is kept in tip-top condition. In fact, these barges are known as floating hotels and the standard of accommodation and service certainly reflects that reputation. Can you think of a better way to experience a summer holiday than on one of the many river cruises in Europe? Cycling River Cruises in Europe

Some companies offer cruises based around a particular theme or interest and this can range from art and flowers, to those based on archaeology or golf. Cycling is a particularly popular option, and with so many great itineraries on offer it is easy to see why. Scotland and France lend themselves perfectly to cycling cruises with both destinations offering a relaxing and somewhat unique biking experience. As you cycle along the towpaths, heading off into local villages and through the wonderful scenery, your barge keeps pace along the canal and awaits your return at the end of the day.

Cycling is an age-old means of transport and is one that allows you to see much more of the countryside than when in a car. You can travel faster than on foot, yet you are moving slow enough to take in all of the surroundings – and you are also getting great exercise too. Many European countries are geared up towards cyclists and drivers are very accommodating; making way for two wheeled travellers is second nature to them.

A specialised cycling cruise can be customised to suit your group and the level of ability too. Daily distances can be adjusted accordingly and the terrain and difficulty level will also vary. Even when not specifically based around cycling many barges will have bikes on board, but for the specialist cycling cruises the bikes are upgraded to suit the increased usage. A guide is also on hand and they are familiar with bike maintenance and very knowledgeable about the local area too. When you're out and about away from eh barge, lunch is is prepared and delivered by the on board chef so there's no need to spend time searching for a good place to eat.

When choosing to book one of these specialty barge holidays, you can either book the whole vessel or join a group that already has a departure date. If you're looking for picturesque scenery along with some invigorating daily activity, one of the cycling river cruises in Europe could be just perfect for you.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for river cruises in Europe we offer experiences in France, Holland, Italy and the UK.