The Slow Cyclist

Where To Go in April

The Slow Cyclist season begins in Europe in April. Spring days are warm enough for long rides, the orchards and hedgerows are in blossom, and the tourists haven't arrived yet. Head to the Mani Peninsula in Greece, Portugal's Côa Valley or the island of Crete. After the winter rains the landscapes are green, there's wildlife about, and the roads are empty.
Portrait view over the villages of Coa Valley, Portugal

Where we recommend for April

  • Greece | Classic |

    The Mani

    From £3,645 per person

    The Mani Peninsula is at its best in April, well before Greece's tourist season begins. Wildflowers cover the hills and olive groves, and temperatures are mild. Cycling between the stone tower villages is easy, helped along by sea breezes. It's a good month to ride along the coast and stop wherever takes your fancy, with the cafes and tavernas to yourselves.

  • Portugal | Classic |

    The Côa Valley

    From £3,195 per person

    The Côa Valley is one of the warmest parts of Europe in April, and one of the quietest, as Portugal's beach season hasn't started yet. The hillsides are yellow with the broom plants in flower, and the winter rains have left the terraced slopes green. The sun is warm enough for riding all day through the almond and olive groves, on dirt tracks and quiet lanes.

  • Greece | Classic |

    Crete

    From £3,545 per person

    Crete is far enough south to be warm in April, and the island is at its best in this early season. Wildflowers fill the valleys while snow still sits on the Lefka Ori mountains. Walks through the gorges and rides across the plateau are comfortable rather than tiring in the mild air. The mountain villages are getting ready for the season, and there's time for a chat over a glass of raki in a taverna.

Available journeys in April