For those of you who don’t know, Pedal Cover HQ sits deep in the valleys of Wales, somewhere between Cardiff and Swansea. And honestly—Wales, we love you.

Rolling hills. Big skies. Breath-taking landscapes. Sheep… everywhere. And terrain that’s as tough as it is beautiful. It hardens you as a rider.

But let’s be honest. Welsh winters are often wet, grey, and relentlessly grim. After weeks of near-constant rain, even the hardiest cyclists start questioning their life choices. Yes, we can all jump on Zwift—but come on. It’s just not the same.

If you’re craving sunshine and smooth roads, it might be time to think about planning winter cycling trips abroad with the right cover in place.

So, if winter riding at home has started to feel like an endurance test rather than a joy, here are some of the best winter cycling destinations—offering warmth, varied terrain, and a much-needed escape from the Welsh (very dreary) weather.

Las Vegas, USA

While Las Vegas is famous for its casinos and nightlife, it also happens to be an excellent winter cycling destination. With dry, mild winters and a vast desert landscape, the area offers unique routes and striking scenery. The local cycling scene has grown in recent years, with everything from flat, fast roads to long, steady climbs—all within easy reach of the Las Vegas Strip.

Step beyond the city and you’ll find quiet, open roads, dramatic red rock formations, and national parks. Before you go, make sure you’ve considered protecting your bike against travel damage or theft with specialist cover.

Highlights

• Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive — A 21 km scenic loop with rolling terrain and iconic desert views—ideal for a controlled mid-ride effort. (Official site)
• Mount Charleston — A long, steady climb into the Spring Mountains, topping out at around 3,600 m (11,900 ft). One of Nevada’s highest paved climbs and a proper endurance test.
• Lake Mead loop — A popular, relatively flat route with expansive lake views, passing the iconic Hoover Dam.
• Valley of Fire State Park — Quiet roads, vivid red rock scenery, and otherworldly landscapes.

 

No sheep. 🐑❌

Mexico

Mexico might not be the first place that comes to mind for cycling, but it has plenty to offer. With winter temperatures typically sitting between 20–25°C and many regions at over 1,000 metres above sea level, it’s an excellent option for warm-weather riding with an altitude training benefit—without much risk of snow.

Highlights

• Yucatán Peninsula — Flat, scenic roads with the bonus of Mayan ruins along the way.
• Sierra Madre — Head inland for tougher, mountainous routes.
• Mazatlán — Home to the Ciclo Tour Mazatlán gran fondo, held late November, early December each year. (Event site)

Mexico offers cultural experiences along with your cycling — just be sure you’ve arranged specialist bicycle cover for your bike away from home before heading overseas.

Just… avoid the high-risk areas. For sensible, up-to-date travel guidance, check the UK Foreign Office advice. (Foreign travel advice)

Girona

This charming city is a former home of long-distance triathlon royalty Jan Frodeno and remains a cycling mecca for pros and amateurs alike. Smooth roads, varied terrain, and an atmosphere steeped in cycling culture make it one of the best places in Europe to ride year-round.

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself riding alongside a WorldTour rider on a “steady” café spin.

Highlights

• Varied terrain — Coastal routes, rolling hills, and big mountain days.
• Pro rider density — You’ll see plenty of familiar faces.
• Year-round riding — Thanks to a mild Mediterranean climate.
• Brilliant cakes — This matters.

 

Planning basics: (Visit Girona)

Calpe

Sunshine, sea, San Miguel and cycling—Spain is a winter riding haven. From January to March—when the UK hits peak gloom—Spain offers smoother roads, better weather, and café stops that actually feel earned.

For this article, we’re picking Calpe. This small town on Spain’s southeast coast has become a cyclist hotspot thanks to reliable winter conditions, affordable hotels, and an exceptional mix of routes. It’s also easily accessible via Alicante airport.

If you need a break from training, there’s a nearby town called Benidorm, which I’m told has some… nightlife.

Highlights

• Coll de Rates — A classic Cat 2 climb.
• Puerto de Tudons — A steady 30–60 minute climb with big views.
• Cumbre del Sol — Brutal gradients up to 17.9%.
• Vall d’Ebo — Ideal for a 20-minute power test.
• Quiet, often deserted roads

 

More on the region: (Costa Blanca Tourism)

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is famous for year-round warmth, relentless wind, and its status as a training base for cyclists and triathletes. The volcanic landscape and well-maintained roads make for a unique riding experience—though it comes at a premium due to the island’s remoteness.

And yes… maybe think twice about the disc wheel.

Highlights

• Get a sun tan in February
• Wind training — Gusts can reach 70 kph.
• Volcanic routes — Explore Timanfaya National Park and its lava fields.
• La Geria — Ride through striking vineyards carved into black volcanic ash.

Lanzarote’s landscape is a bit barren, but with its well-maintained roads and warm weather, it’s a great spot to clock in those winter miles — making travel cover designed specifically for cyclists especially valuable.

No shortage of aloe vera products.

 

Useful links: (Turismo Lanzarote) • (La Santa Sport)

Mallorca

Often dubbed a cycling paradise, Mallorca is a firm favourite among pros and amateurs. The island offers an incredible variety of routes, great infrastructure, and plenty to keep non-cycling family members entertained.

Be warned: the weather can be changeable in winter, so pack a rain cape. But if you only get one ride in, visit Sa Calobra. You won’t be disappointed.

Highlights

• Coll de Sóller & Sa Calobra — Ideal for power tests and big climbing days.
• Puig Major — A challenging climb with rewarding views.
• Cycling-friendly hotels — Plenty of bike-friendly accommodation (don’t forget an approved lock).
• Mallorca 312 — A 312 km lap of the island. Not for the faint-hearted.

 

Stunning beaches, charming villages, and enough scenery to keep everyone happy—even if they don’t ride.

Did we mention Sa Calobra?

Tolós.

Planning basics: (Turisme de Mallorca)

The Algarve

Portugal’s Algarve region is gaining popularity with cyclists, thanks to its mild winter climate, great value and a fantastic road network. Host to the Volta ao Algarve, the region offers varied terrain, from flat coastal roads to inland climbs.

Highlights

• Foia (Serra de Monchique) — Climb to around 900 m for expansive views.
• Malhão — Short, steep, and regularly featured in professional racing. (Volta ao Algarve)
• MTB and gravel routes — Plenty of off-road options too.
• Cheap coffee, excellent food, welcoming atmosphere

 

Pastel de nata are hard to avoid.

Planning basics: (Visit Algarve)