[vc_row row_height_percent=”0″ override_padding=”yes” h_padding=”2″ top_padding=”5″ bottom_padding=”5″ overlay_alpha=”50″ gutter_size=”3″ column_width_percent=”100″ shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″][vc_column column_width_use_pixel=”yes” gutter_size=”3″ overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1\/1″ column_width_pixel=”900″][vc_custom_heading heading_semantic=”h3″ text_size=”bigtext” text_height=”” uncode_shortcode_id=”173908″]Starting out in cycle touring is easier, and more rewarding, than it seems.
If you enjoy cycling and dream of an active holiday, close to nature and away from the crowds, bikotel helps you turn that desire into a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience.[\/vc_custom_heading][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/1″][vc_column_text border_color=”transparent” uncode_shortcode_id=”383564″ border_color_type=”uncode-palette” css=”.vc_custom_1762361200082{border-bottom-width: 15px !important;}”]<\/p>\n
\nThis practical guide shows you how to plan your first cycling trip, with the support of accommodations<\/a> specially designed for cyclists.<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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1. Define your goal and choose the ideal route<\/h3>\n
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Before you think about maps or bikes, ask yourself this question: What are you looking for in this trip?<\/em><\/strong><\/div>\nTo discover\u00a0historic villages<\/a><\/strong>? Ride\u00a0along the coast<\/a><\/strong>? Overcome a personal challenge?<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBy defining your purpose, it becomes easier to choose the region, type of route, and level of difficulty.
On the bikotel<\/strong> website<\/a>, you\u2019ll find cycling routes<\/a><\/strong> and bike-friendly accommodations<\/strong><\/a> all over the country – from inland to the coast, from the mountains to the sea.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\nTip:<\/strong> For beginners, start with a 2 to 3 day route, covering 20 to 30 miles per day, mostly on flat or gently rolling terrain. On the route map<\/a>, you can use the distance and difficulty filters to find the route that best suits you.<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image media=”5764″ media_width_percent=”100″ uncode_shortcode_id=”172342″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”150272″]<\/p>\n
2. Choose the right bike (and make sure it\u2019s in good condition)<\/h3>\n
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\n\nNot every bicycle is suitable for long trips. For cycle touring, the most common types are:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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- Hybrid or touring bikes:<\/strong> comfortable, with space for panniers.<\/li>\n
- Mountain bikes (MTB):<\/strong> ideal for trails and dirt roads.<\/li>\n
- Gravel bikes:<\/strong> light, fast, and adaptable to various terrains.<\/li>\n
- Road bikes:<\/strong> best for those who prefer to ride only on asphalt, focusing on speed and efficiency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If you don\u2019t have your own bike or prefer not to travel with it, check with bikotel accommodations<\/strong><\/a> – many have local partnerships<\/strong> for bike rentals<\/strong>.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\nBefore you set off, check the brakes, tyres, chain, lights, and gears.<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h=”0″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”573418″]<\/p>\n
3. Pack light, but smart<\/h3>\n
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\n\nOne of the secrets to successful cycle touring is finding the right balance between lightness and preparation<\/strong>. Bring only the essentials – but make sure you\u2019re well equipped. Here\u2019s what you shouldn\u2019t leave behind:<\/div>\n\n
- Lightweight, quick-drying technical clothing<\/li>\n
- Waterproof jacket (for you and your panniers)<\/li>\n
- Helmet, gloves, and sunglasses<\/li>\n
- Basic tools: air pump, spare inner tube, and multi-tool<\/li>\n
- Documents, phone, charger, and power bank<\/li>\n
- First-aid kit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nAvoid carrying a heavy backpack – use side panniers to distribute the weight more evenly.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image media=”5766″ media_width_percent=”100″ uncode_shortcode_id=”705224″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”104706″]<\/p>\n
4. Book cyclist-friendly accommodation<\/h3>\n
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