Planning a cycling holiday can feel overwhelming – especially when you’re trying to figure out the logistics of getting the right bike in a foreign destination. If you’re considering a self-guided cycling adventure with KE, we’ve answered everything you may need to know about these holidays that’ll put your mind at ease. Here’s what to expect when it comes to bike hire on KE’s self-guided holidays…

One of the biggest advantages is that bike hire is included as standard across all of our self-guided cycling trips. Whether you’re leisurely cycling through the rolling vineyards from Bolzano to Venice or tackling the best routes around Madeira, your bike is already in your package. It might surprise you to know that many other tour operators don’t include bike hire within the cost of the holiday. If you’re curious about cycling, this can be a real barrier to discovering beautiful destinations on two wheels!

Of course, if you'd prefer to bring your own bike you're more than welcome to do so—just note that the package price remains the same. We’re confident in the quality of the bikes we provide and we want you to feel fully equipped to enjoy your adventure on two wheels.

Want a bit of a boost on the hills? Well, all of our self-guided cycling holidays (yes, all of them!) offer the option to upgrade to an e-bike. You'll get that satisfying boost when you need it most, without compromising the joy of cycling through stunning landscapes. If you’re unsure about whether an e-bike would be the right option for you, give our sales team a call, they’re always happy to help!

If you're a keen cyclist with a beloved bike at home, the thought of riding something unfamiliar might make you pause. At KE, we work exclusively with reliable, quality-assured bike suppliers in each destination. Every bike is vetted and maintained to KE standards, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery on your temporary bike instead of worrying about mechanical issues.

Whether your route calls for a hybrid bike for mixed surfaces, a mountain bike for rougher trails or upgraded frames for those challenging hill climbs, we make sure you're matched with the most suitable bike type. For particularly hilly terrain, we often provide lighter or upgraded frames to keep you comfortable and confident on those climbs.

Want to switch to a gravel bike or a more performance-focused model? Many of our trips offer upgrade options. You can check the bike hire information listed on your chosen trip page or speak to our sales team to explore what’s available.

While we've got the bike covered, there are a few things we recommend bringing from home. We definitely recommend packing your own helmet for maximum comfort. You know how it fits and you'll feel more confident wearing something familiar.

If you're new to cycling holidays, here's a pro tip from us: invest in some padded shorts or grab a gel seat cover. Trust us, after a few days in the saddle, you'll be grateful you thought ahead!