Matthew Kirkham, Senior Sales Executive and resident cyclist at Victor, highlights some of the world’s best cycling destinations and the best ways to get there.
Cycling is an enormously popular sport, in the UK at least, it is estimated that up to 21% of adults cycle at least once a week. While local routes may offer comfort and familiarity to the casual cyclist, the vast majority of the experts and enthusiasts will agree that cycling abroad offers an unparalleled experience that simply can’t be replicated at home.
Although most cyclists would love to embrace the joys of international travel, many will be apprehensive of the idea of travelling commercially with their equipment – and for good reason. For devoted cyclists, a bicycle is not merely a piece of equipment, but a trusted companion, and in very extreme cases, an extension of their own body. Fortunately though, private jet travel eliminates this worry, offering meticulous handling and secure storage, ensuring that cyclists’ prized possessions arrive unscathed and ready for adventure.
Private jet travel, with its swift and efficient boarding processes, ensures that cyclists spend less time in transit and more time on the road. By eliminating the hassles of check-in queues, lengthy layovers, and baggage retrieval, chartering a private jet grants cyclists the luxury of time—time to explore, time to conquer new challenges, and time to revel in the sheer joy of their passion.
Below, we have listed three destinations that you should consider if you’re looking to indulge in the ultimate cycling adventure…
Palma De Mallorca
Best Airport – Palma International Airport
Best Aircraft – Pilatus PC-24
- 90 ft3 baggage space
- Capable of storing at least two bike boxes
Matthew Kirkham says –
“Mallorca is home to the Tramuntana mountain range which runs along the island’s Western coastline. There is a mix of mountains, beautiful rural villages, and multiple beaches as well as famous towns such as Port de Pollenca – which is a mecca for cyclists from all over the world. This region houses world renowned pro cyclists and teams who train there during the off season.”
“Some of the most popular climbs include Sa Calobra, Puig Major, and Coll de Sa Batalla. Another amazing ride is Formentor Lighthouse at sunrise or sunset, which is 10/10 and I highly recommend it. This destination offers a unique blend of challenging road cycling and chilling by the beach with a cold beer.”
French Alps
Best airports- Geneva, Grenoble, or Avignon, international airports
Best Aircraft – Pilatus PC-24
- 90 ft3 baggage space
- Capable of storing at least two bike boxes
Matthew Kirkham says –
“This is the gateway to the French Alps and world-famous climbs of the Tour de France, such as Col d’Izoard, Alpe D’Huez, and Mont Ventoux. Home to the also well known and picturesque lavender fields of Provence, as well as bloody excellent wine in the region too.”
Chile, South America
Best Airports –
Arrive Puerto Montt, El Tepual International Airport.
Depart Ushuaia, Malvinas Argentinas International Airport.
Best Aircraft – G650ER or Global 7500 (fuel stop needed on the return to the UK).
Matthew Kirkham says –
This is home to part of the South American Epic. A life changing traverse of the continent from top to bottom, finishing at ‘the end of the world’. Sites along the route include: Parque Pumalin, Los Glaciares national park, and Tierra del Fuego (end of the world).
For more information about flying with sports equipment, please feel free to reach out to one of our trusted Aviation Advisors