With the new year finally here, the time to start planning those upcoming vacations is now. With your new cycling gear and bikes ready to be put to use, there’s no better time than now to start organizing the best cycling vacation ever.

Feel free to do the research and organize one yourself, but we highly recommend checking out the following exceptional cycling vacations put on by first-rate bike tour companies:

1.) Andalucia — Trek Travel

If Spain is on your bucket list than Andalucia is where you need to go. Trek Travel offers one heck of a cycling trip that places you amongst limestone peaks, vast rolling hills and historic sites. Along with daily rides, you’ll enjoy stops at local wineries, an authentic flamenco performance, a walking tour of the city Ronda and much more. This trip is 6 days and 5 nights, and is recommended for riders who ride on a weekly basis. Non-riders are welcome.

2.) Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria — VBT

Eager to explore a new county? Why not make it three? Head to Central Europe for a cycling trip of a lifetime put on by VBT. Explore castle towns, forrest terrains and idyllic villages on two wheels in Czech Republic, Germany and Austria. Ride from country to country and experience everything from Bavarian beer gardens, riverside picnics, and rich historic scenery. This trip is ideal for beginner cyclists with daily rides averaging anywhere from 15 - 45 miles. Two packages are offered with this trip, either 7 days, or 10 days with additional stays in Prague and Vienna.

3.) Budapest & Tokaj — Butterfield & Robinson

If you’re interested in a private cycling tour - your selected group along with a customized itinerary fit to your interests - Butterfield & Robinson’s trip to Budapest & Tokaj is sure to fit the bill. Enjoy the best of both worlds. Eye-catching architecture and the blue depths of the Danube in the city of Budapest to local vineyards and quaint villages in the countryside of Tokaj. This trip is perfect for riders who ride at least once a week, and is for 6 days and 5 nights.

4.) Tuscany Luxury — Trek Travel

Trek Travel offers a few trips to Tuscany - all incredible - but if you’re looking to really treat yourself than we recommend their Tuscany Luxury trip. Ride and reside in style in divine Tuscany with luxury accommodations and top-of-the-line cuisine. On top of riding through idyllic Tuscan landscapes, enjoy the hospitality of the Mascheroni Stianti family at their private Castello di Volpaia estate, meals at Michelin-starred restaurants, private cooking classes, wine tastings, and much more. This trip is 6 days and 5 nights, and is recommended for riders who ride on a weekly basis. Non-riders are welcome.

5.) Banff to Jasper — Backroads

An epic journey awaits you in the Canadian Rockies on Backroads’ bike tour from Banff to Jasper. This trip is perfect for those looking for unparalleled mountain scenery and crystal blue waters. Ride through Icefields Parkway, encounter magnificent wildlife, enjoy private tours of museums and historic sites, wine tastings, kayaking, and more. Riders ranging from easygoing to avid levels are welcome to sign up for this trip lasting 6 days and 5 nights.

6.) Croatia — VBT

7 - 10 days riding along the coasts of The Dalmatian Islands. It doesn’t get much better than that! VBT offers a spectacular cycling vacation that provides guests with breathtaking views and an authentic look into Croatian life. Dine with locals in their homes, learn key phrases from a Croatian language lesson, take part in a cooking demonstration, and enjoy exquisite Croatian wine. Riders can expect rides through rolling terrain and over challenging hills. This trip is ideal for eager beginners to experienced riders with daily rides averaging anywhere from 13 - 35 miles. Two packages are offered with this trip, either 7 days, or 10 days with additional stays in Dubrovnik and Split.

7.) California Wine Country Long Weekend — Trek Travel

If you only have the time for a short getaway, we recommend Trek Travel’s California Wine Country Long Weekend trip. Escape to Sonoma for a few days for scenic back roads, sunshine and lots of wine. Ride through Sonoma County’s three big three appellations: Russian River, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valley. Rest-up in luxurious countryside accommodations and savor local cuisines and wine aplenty. This trip is 4 days and 3 nights, and is recommended for riders looking for recreational riding. Non-riders are welcome.

Pedal your way around the world this year. Travel with family and friends, or perhaps go solo and meet new people along the way. If you have any cycling vacation suggestions, we’d love to hear about them in the comments section below. Happy traveling!