Cycling and Swimming
Sun, water, cycling – on the road between lakes and sea
Cycling and swimming go hand in hand – quite literally. Ride along the Adriatic coast, through Tuscany or around the lakes of Carinthia, and you'll have water in sight almost the entire way. And whenever it feels right: stop, lean the bike against a tree and jump in. There's nothing better than cooling off in the glittering waves on a sunny day.
Children especially love this combination: a quick dip in the salty sea or the crystal-clear water of an Alpine lake – and cycling never gets boring.
Some of our tours take it one step further: on the bathing cruises in Croatia, you sleep on board, cycle on the islands during the day – and dive straight off the motor yacht into the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. Land tour or cruise, families or couples: cycling holidays by the water come in many shapes.
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Cycle, swim, repeat – the rhythm that makes a holiday
Cycling holidays by the water follow their own rhythm. Set off in the morning, ride along the coast, and at some point discover a beach too good to pass – and simply stop. No fixed swimming times, no schedule. Just sun, water and the decision to stay another hour.
That's what makes these tours special: the swim stop isn't a bonus, it's part of the journey. Cycling around Lake Garda means riding between olive groves and cypress trees – with turquoise water always in view. Exploring the Tuscan coast means a dip in the Mediterranean after a long stage. And touring the Carinthian lakes means switching between saddle and water every few kilometres.
Lakes, coasts, islands – cycling and swimming in Europe
Cycling and swimming can be experienced in very different ways across Europe. The choice ranges from tranquil Alpine lakes to long stretches of Mediterranean coastline. Those looking for something quieter will find crystal-clear water, fairy-tale castles and stages between 40 and 60 kilometres on the Cycling Holiday in Carinthia. The Cycling Tour in Puglia follows rocky coastlines and fine sandy beaches along the Salento Peninsula – with swimming stops right on the Mediterranean.
Those who want to combine cycling with sailing will find what they're looking for with our bathing cruises in Croatia: the Family Cruise in Croatia and the Leisure Cruise in Croatia combine short cycling stages on the islands with overnight stays on board – and the chance to dive straight into the sea off the Croatian coast.
Frequently asked questions about cycling and swimming
When is the best time of year for a cycling and swimming holiday?
That depends on the destination. The Carinthian lakes and Lake Garda are ideal from May to September, Croatia and the Adriatic particularly from June to September, Puglia even into October. Those looking to travel early in the year will also find tours available from March and April.
How much time is there actually for swimming on these tours?
More than you might think. With stages of 30 to 45 kilometres, you'll typically arrive at your destination in the early afternoon – the rest of the day is yours. On bathing cruises, swimming is a fixed part of the daily programme.
