Yike Biker

Not everyone is suited to a lazy type of holiday, and if you are up for seeing the Cotswolds from the saddle of a bike, you certainly won't be disappointed.

You can bring your own bike on the back of your car if you wish, or alternatively you can hire one locally. But whichever way you choose to get going, you won't fall short of places to explore during your stay.

The beauty of the Cotswolds doesn't just lie in the miles of stunning countryside you can gaze at as you pedal along. It also lies in the variety of cycle routes you can follow. If you are used to being in the saddle every day, you'll appreciate the off-road options that will take you onto some of the more challenging routes available. Beginners might feel more comfortable on the quieter roads, of which there are many in the Cotswolds area.

The one essential item you will need if a cycling holiday appeals to you is a map. It's worth investing in a proper cycle map too, as this will highlight all the local routes that you can follow near to where you are staying. For example, some of our cottages and properties can be rented in the Cotswold Water Park. This alone has two beautiful routes that you can try out for starters.

In fact, you don't have to be out on your bicycle every day if you don't want to be. You can hire bicycles for a single day to try it out, and then book for additional days if you wish.

On the far east of the Cotswolds the rolling countryside dips down toward the Thames, whilst the northern side is ridged with a steep escarpment, and within this varied countryside there are any number of routes, from the easy to the relatively challenging.

One of the best advantages of cycling in the Cotswolds is that the terrain is very suitable for bikers of all abilities. You won't find any steep mountains to puff your way up. Think of it instead as a series of gently climbing and falling hills, so you won't be in for any great difficulty for a prolonged period of time!

That the Cotswolds is a well established location for cyclists means that there are a large number of cycle hire specialists in the area, who can provide whatever you need - from hybrid and mountain bikes to guided tours, advice and maps.

There are plenty of cycle paths and routes criss-crossing their way all over the area, but you might like to come up with your own ideas as well, as you become more knowledgeable about the area. In fact, there is no better activity than to put your feet up in one of our superb quality cottages in the evening, glass of wine to hand, as you plan your route for the very next day.

If that sounds appealing, it doesn't begin to cover the joy you will get when you actually go out on your bike for real!