If you want expert advice on small-group cycling tours, there’s no better place to turn than the Exodus offices. And if you want advice from an amateur, we can do that too.
Our writer Sam had never been on a cycling adventure before joining Cycling Puglia & Matera, an eight-day ride along the heel of Italy. Here, he shares the things he learned along the way, so you can take your first trip with confidence.
1. Being at the front doesn’t matter – keeping up, does
If you’re embarking on your first group cycling tour, you’ll probably let the group know you’re a cycling virgin at the welcome meeting… and regret it instantly. That’s exactly what I did. But my error wasn’t telling people it was my first group cycling tour (which only made everyone more sympathetic to my mistakes), it was in trying to prove I was fit enough to keep up with the pack leaders.
Obviously, you don’t want to be so far behind you ruin the enjoyment of others. I aimed for a comfortable middle pace, not at the back, nor at the front. The truth is, though, that you’ll likely find yourself at both during your journey.
Overall, it’s essential you pick a trip that’s the right difficulty level for you. We rate each trip with an Activity Level, which provides an excellent indication of how difficult the adventure will be.
2. Your tour leader is everything
It’s hard to overstate how valuable the tour leader is, especially on your first cycling adventure. Over eight days, our leader, Michele, not only took us on the correct route, checked the weather and traffic each day, shared the history of the region, fine-tuned the bikes, sorted transfers where needed, made sure all hotel rooms were okay, and arranged nightly meals, he also introduced us to a friend (a singing olive-wood artist), led a post-dinner folk dance in an agriturismo restaurant, showed us the local hotspots and even persuaded many of us into the October sea.
So, the lesson? Rely on and trust your tour leader – they’ll make your adventure unforgettable.
3. Getting your food and drink right is essential
A lesson I learned very quickly… but never followed. Overindulging at the buffet breakfast made for a tough start to the day. By mid-morning, my sluggishness wore off, just in time for lunch, when the good food came once more. This is Italy after all. By dinner, I was ready to eat again, though this time the Italian staples of cheese and carbohydrates are accompanied by a drop or two of the local primitivo wine – irresistible, but not a Giro d’Italia rider’s diet.
For future group cycling trips, I’ll go easier at breakfast and lunch… then make the most of dinner. On our trip, we had plenty of cycling breaks, either at a point of local interest or just to recover and bring the group together. Breaks also mean snacks. Our driver would always be there to meet us, bringing energy-boosting treats, such as fruit and nuts, making the breakfast indulgences unnecessary.
4. The right kit makes all the difference
Before I flew to Italy, I made sure I had all the gear on the essential equipment list, which are found in the Trip Notes. However, with this being my first group cycling trip, I was slightly concerned about look like an ‘all the gear, no idea’ rider. I shouldn’t have been. Yes, I felt a little fraudulent the first time I sat on my bike wearing a skin-tight cycling top, but the benefits far outweighed my feelings of unease − cycling in the Apulian sun in a heavy cotton t-shirt would not have been fun.
Better yet, almost all the group were wearing similar attire. Some went further, with the shorts to match, while, of course, the tour leader was fully kitted out. If in doubt, follow the tour leader. There were some things I brought that I didn’t use – cycling gloves, for example – but I felt far more comfortable having them ready to go.
5. Cycling is only half the fun
The cycling was incredible, but often my favourite moments happened off two wheels. Seeing the cave town of Matera in the orange glow of sunset; wandering through medieval Otranto in the early morning quiet; sipping beers next to the pool in Masseria Bosco – there were countless more, too.
Then there are the small moments shared with the group: a much-needed espresso in a small-town café, learning about the lives of other adventurous people, sharing the wonders of Italian cuisine around a big table – they all add a richness to the trip that you just wouldn’t get by doing it solo.
6. Embrace the power of electricity
For my adventure through Puglia, I rode the Velo de Ville L 200 touring bike provided. It’s a sturdy, comfortable pedal bike with rear panniers – perfect for the adventure. However, if you feel like you might need a little extra oomph, don’t be afraid to book the available e-bike option through your sales representative.
I have since been on an e-bike tour in Italy, and it allowed me to easily keep pace with the pack and meant I didn’t feel too tired to enjoy the cultural activities on offer. They’re an excellent choice for first-time cyclists and the tour leader will take care of all the maintenance and battery charging, allowing you to fully focus on the rides, scenery and cuisine.
Best cycling trips for beginners
Inspired to join your first small-group cycling trip? Check out our full collection of cycling adventures or consider the three options below, each of which is ideal for your first tour.
Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride
One of our most popular cycling adventures, this trip links the two great cities of Portugal. The average daily distance is a relatively comfortable 34mi (55km), mainly using cycle paths and quiet roads. It’s at the harder end of our Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate) trips, but the itinerary is designed so the wind is behind you, providing a gentle nudge in the right direction.
Adventure to book: Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride
Cycle the Coast of Kerala
The southern state of Kerala is the laid-back side of India with beautiful coastlines and tranquil backwaters. Each day, you’ll ride between 15.5mi (25km) and 37mi (60km), plus there’s a support vehicle with you at all times, meaning you can take a break from riding if you need. Additionally, most of the cycling only takes half a day, allowing you to relax or explore the cultural wonders (and food) of this enthralling destination.
Adventure to book: Cycle the Coast of Kerala
Cycle the Baltics
The beautiful Baltic states – Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania – are a dream for first-time cyclists. On this easy-going trip, you’ll only ride 28mi (45km) a day on average with full vehicle support. Most of the route is flat, as we take quiet backroads, paths through national parks and coastal cycling tracks, while there’s plenty of off-the-saddle adventures to keep you captivated when you’re not riding.
Adventure to book: Cycle the Baltics
