2018 Photo Competition Winner

It's been a delight seeing so many of our customers enjoying their time on bikes, taking in the best of what Europe and Asia have to offer.

The entries were of such a high standard, that it took a lot of deliberation to pick our winner, however, we're delighted to announce the winning entry below, together with a selection of photos that the judges recognised as highly commendable.

You can see all of the entries from this year's competition in our Facebook album.

Judges verdict: We think that this photo imaginatively sums up what makes a cycling holiday so joyous - having fun on a quiet bike route, with lots of fresh air and a beautiful landscape rolling past you. Catherine and Paul took this photo on their tour from Venice to Porec, which features idyllic cycling through Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. Catherine won £500 off her next Freedom Treks holiday.

Catherine and Paul said: "There were so many fantastic photos, showcasing the amazing time everyone was having so this is an honour that you have chosen our photo! When I look at this photo and remember the quiet stretch of road that we were on the one word that immediately comes to mind is - freedom! In Sydney, Australia we choose to do most of our cycling at home on our wind trainers (following Zwift) because it is just so dangerous to ride on the roads. So to have the whole road to ourselves was awesome. Definitely one of the bonus’ of riding in Europe was the polite and courteous drivers who we shared the road with."

Judges verdict: Lucy submitted a wonderful selection of photos from her time cycling in Slovenia, but this was our favourite. We love the sweeping backdrop of green trees and mountains, something that makes cycling in Slovenia such a delight.

Judges verdict: Lanzarote and the Canary Islands are the perfect autumn/winter cycling destination and Peter perfectly captured why this is! The quiet road, with dunes on one side, the ocean on the other and blue-skies above seems the perfect setting for a ride when the weather back at home is cold and wet.

Judges verdict: Nothing beats a bit of relaxation at the end of an enjoyable bike ride and John's photo captures exactly that. Lübeck to Stralsund is a lovely route along the German Riviera, taking in sandy coastal resorts and pretty villages, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy harbour-side restaurants or stroll along wooden piers.

Judges verdict: We love the beautiful colours that are on show in Pamela's photo from her time on the Tulip Tour by Boat & Bike. Holland is awash with vibrant colour in springtime and we think this photo captured the delight of cycling through the tulip fields perfectly.

Judges verdict: We really liked seeing Russell and Louise's photos on Instagram during their trip to Austria and Germany. The beautiful weather and stunning cycling that they enjoyed made all of us quite jealous as we sat in our office!

Judges verdict: Cycling beside beautiful green meadows is a highlight of any tour in Slovenia. We really like how Sue & Alan have nicely positioned their bike amongst the wildflowers in this photo.