What could be more festive than a Christmas Market? Twinkling lights, the aroma of mulled spices wafting through the cold air and the chance to get some cool and unusual presents for loved ones. But Christmas shopping can mean time away from the bike, and it seems a shame to waste even a minute of riding time, particularly if you are trying to get those base miles in for the year ahead or want to spend some quality time riding with your family.

Happily, there are plenty of Christmas Markets in spots that are ideal for cycling, whether you fancy hitting the mountain bike trails, heading off on a winter road ride or a relaxing winter ride with your kids. Dare we say it, a pre-market bike ride is also the perfect way to work up an appetite for a mince pie or bratwurst or two!