The nights are getting lighter. Despite the cold weather there’s a freshness in the air. The clocks go forward relatively soon and cycle commuters already notice the difference as they leave for work or return after a hard days slog. I love cycling in Cardiff and the surrounding area at this time and I’ll give you some reasons as to why I think you will too.

• Everything is looking up – the dark winter months are passing and thoughts are starting to shift toward summer. There is no finer time to feel motivated and invigorated.
• The flowers are budding – Hard is the cyclist who can turn a blind eye to flowers springing up on roadside verges and in woodland spaces. Being Welsh, Daffodils hold a special place, as do primrose and snowdrops. Why not take the family out for a ride and see how many you can spot?
• The cycle sportive season ramps up – if you’re a cyclist looking for a challenge, the diary fills up fast with cycle sportives and traditional racing. Now’s the time to hit the roads or the trails to hit peak fitness in May and June.
• Warm enough for an outside coffee stop – Well….it depends on how hardy you are, but sitting outside a café sipping an espresso is one of cycling’s great traditions. Cardiff has no shortage of coffee stops to satisfy even the most addicted of coffee heads.

So I’d argue strongly – and loudly! – that now is the time to get out on the bike. Fortunately, Future Inns make that nice and easy for the visiting cyclist, with a warm welcome and advice on hand. Follow us on Instagram to get a feel of the cycling experience. @cycle_futureinns