By Allan Halsall

People often say that to really explore an area, you have to get out of the car, or get off the tour bus and discover things for yourself. In reality the best way to do this is to get on a bike with a guide map and find your own way. That said, bike holidays have become synonymous with lycra wearing cycling enthusiasts, but this really should not be the case, because as long as you know how to ride a bike and you are reasonably fit, then a cycling holiday could be perfect for you.

Some of the most popular and accessible cycling packages are often found outside of the big cities and towns, such as in Italy, in the area of Fiuggi which is sandwiched between Rome and Naples, and this particular area is a great choice as it boasts lots of great routes, a nearby natural reserve and countless historic towns and villages off the beaten track, where you can experience real Italy. The best part of this area is that deals here are unbelievably good value. For example, 2-7 night cycling breaks are available through Activity Breaksfrom £61 and that is staying in a 4* spa hotel in Fiuggi on a full board basis, with maps and GPS too. You can bring your own bike if you want or hire one for €20 and they have a repair shop onsite for any hiccups that may occur along the way.

With packages like this available all year round, and return flights from the UK to Rome available for under £100, you can get away for a cycling break for well under £200, making it a recession busting deal.

Getting There

Flights from Belfast to Rome from £76 on Aer Lingus

Flights from Dublin to Rome from €72 on Aer Lingus

Flights from Edinburgh to Rome from £72 on Ryanair

Flights from Glasgow to Rome from £64 on Jet 2

Flights from Manchester to Rome from £46 on Jet 2

Flights from East Midlands to Rome from £66 on Ryanair

Flights from Gatwick to Rome from £65 on EasyJet