When most people think of winter, they think of cosying up by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate. But for avid cyclists, winter is the best time to explore new routes and terrain. With the days shorter and the weather colder, only the brave ones are rewarded with empty roads, breath-taking scenery, and a sense of adventure.

 If you're looking for an adventure this winter, consider swapping your car for a bike and hitting the open road. Listed below are some of the best places to go for a winter cycling holiday.

 The Alps

 The Alps are a dream destination for cyclists, with routes spanning across France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. There are routes to suit all levels of cyclists, from beginners to experienced riders.

 The scenery is stunning, the air is fresh, and the roads are well-maintained. The snow-capped mountains provide a picturesque backdrop, and the lower temperatures make for ideal riding conditions.

 Costa Almeria, Spain

 With its temperate climate and average temperature of 18 degrees Celsius in December, Costa Almeria is ideal for winter cycling. The region has some stunningly scenic routes along its coastline and through its mountains. And when you're done cycling for the day, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy in the evenings.

 Dubai, UAE

 If you fancy somewhere a bit warmer this winter, why not head to Dubai? With an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius in December, it's ideal for winter sun seekers who also love to cycle! There are some amazing routes through the desert landscape outside Dubai city and more urban routes if you prefer to stick to the city limits. You can enjoy world-class dining and entertainment in one of Dubai's many luxury hotels or resorts in the evening.

 Algarve, Portugal

 Algarve is well-known as a top cycling destination. The stunning scenery, great weather, and challenging terrain make it a perfect place to enjoy winter holidays on two wheels. However, what really sets Algarve apart from other cycling destinations is the level of support and infrastructure that is available for cyclists.

 With an average temperature of 17-degrees Celsius in December, the coastal routes here are incredibly scenic, and there are also some great inland routes through olive groves and orange groves.

 Seychelles

 If you're looking for an idyllic island setting for your winter cycling holiday, look no further than Seychelles. With its white sandy beaches, tropical forests and crystal clear waters, it's no wonder that this archipelago is such a popular tourist destination. Cycling here is a truly enjoyable experience, made all the better by the fact that it's almost always warm, with an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius throughout December.

 Gran Canaria

 Gran Canaria is a cyclist's paradise all year round, thanks to its diverse landscapes and excellent infrastructure for cyclists. There are routes to suit all abilities, from beginners to experienced riders, and the average temperature is a pleasant 22-degrees Celsius in December. With its sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, Gran Canaria is ideal for beginner and intermediate cyclists who want to explore at a slower pace.

 Winter is the perfect time to explore new places by bike. With fewer crowds and milder weather conditions, you can enjoy all that nature has to offer without battling the heat or the hordes of tourists. Whether you're looking for sunny weather, scenic routes, or just somewhere to feel or escape the cold, these destinations are sure to meet your needs.