Self guided cycling map & highlights

Get out of the saddle. Thanks to the independent nature of a self guided cycling vacation it's entirely up to you how far you want to go in terms of distance and endurance. Just try to remember to stow your wheels every once in a while, and leave time to explore on foot or add a couple of lazy mornings or relaxing afternoons to let your limbs recover as you soak up some sunshine or local vino.

To really get the most from a self guided cycling vacation you might want to put in some training prior to setting off. Of course, it’s a vacation – and it’s not supposed to be an all out attack for the yellow jersey; however, there are plenty of steep climbs and elongated ascents to let you know that you've put yourself through your paces. You'll get more from a cycling vacation if you're not out of puff so aim to put in a few hours practise before you leave.

Although you will be given suggested route maps, doing your own research is certainly advisable on a self guided cycling vacation. Many of the remote villages and hillside castles or fortresses that you might encounter will have fascinating histories and exploring a country's language and customs is a great way to broaden cultural horizons.

Stick rigidly to your itinerary. Although a self guided cycling vacation should be planned in advance to maximise your time it's also worth taking a flexible approach when it comes to itineraries. Weather, wine and wildlife can all divert you from a day spent cycling but if you can embrace a unique experience rather than ignoring it in favour of ticking off a pre-ordained distance you may get more from your tour.

Stuff too much into each day. Early starts to beat the crowds, cultural sites before lunch and an afternoon ascending mountain slopes might seem like a good way to spend your day but it could also make a self guided cycling feel more like a merciless route march. Try to relax and linger a little longer over lunch or lazy breakfasts to ensure you get to rest as you sample your surroundings.

Forget a few home comforts. Being comfortable on a self guided cycling vacation is essential for going the distance as the last thing you need is to get saddle sore or caught out by an untimely downpour. Bringing along wet weather gear, helmet, gloves, padded shorts and bike seat (although gel saddles are usually provided) gives you an extra feeling of familiarity and can often prove to be a major factor in undertaking a successful tour.

“Take rain gear – booties and helmet cover even as they don't take up much space and will keep you comfortable if it showers. We also took our own bike seats and were glad to have them.” – Beth, cycling in Spain

“Having your own GPS with maps could be handy if you decide to venture off the (careful and excellent) instruction. We got lost several times when we decided to wing it, but always had a great time.” – Amy Shannon, cycling in Spain

“Train for this vacation as the days get tougher and you need to be in shape. Also go before high season as you see more and do not worry about people or traffic as much.” – Brian Potter, cycling in Portugal

“Before starting out, try to do some cultural research on the small communities along the itinerary. Knowing about, for example, archaeological sites near the suggested routes can lead to extra-mileage side trips that the kids might agree to.” – Bunli Yang, cycling in the Algarve

“If you go late on in the year make sure you have warm clothes - days start a little chilly and the temperature drops around 3pm. Also, if you are a slow cyclist either start out early or take a torch - actually, a torch is useful for staggering back from the local restaurants in the evening!” - Debbie Merrick, cycling in Portugal

“Go for it! My other half doesn't cycle routinely and she was fine (we're both late fifties and averagely fit). If your legs get tired you can always walk for a bit and in any case you'll want to stop, look & take photos quite a bit. The support by… the vacation operator is superb; bikes are high quality and instructions/directions easy to follow – backed up with bike computers and bike-sat nav.” – Paul Millner