Saddle up for the world’s best cycling routes

May 1, 2012 3:50:47 AM

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There’s no better way to explore a place than by bike. In honour of our favourite two-wheeled travel companion, here are 10 trips around the world that should be on every cyclist’s wishlist.

1. Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight is a cycling paradise that is home to some of the UK’s most varied terrain: lush velvet hills rolling into the sea, narrow lanes through tidy hedgerows, deep and mysterious green gullies, and the island’s most striking feature, the ridge of white chalk cliffs stretching across its breadth. Although cyclists have been enjoying its outdoor pleasures for decades now, it’s only been in recent years that Wight has started to attract young and trendy Londoners looking for a romantic weekend by the sea with a buzz – which gastropubs, slick hotels and a calendar full of festivals now provide.

Wightlink passenger ferries sail from Portsmouth to Ryde pier throughout the day; fares vary for the 18-minute crossing but bikes are free.

2. West Coast, Tasmania, Australia

By right, Tasmania should be too small to have huge pockets of wilderness, but untouched and untamed lands stretch along its fierce west coast. Cycling land this wild should not come easily and it doesn’t, with the hill climbs queuing one after the other – you will notice them but not as much as the scenery, which takes in Tasmania’s most famous mountain (Cradle Mountain), its cutest coastal town (Strahan), its highest waterfall (Montezuma Falls) and its most beautiful lake (Lake St Clair), all on highways that feel at times like back roads.

Tasmania is covered in detail in an excellent series of four maps produced by the state government’s Information and Land Services Division.

3. Luberon and Mont Ventoux, Provence, France

Tackling hilly Luberon with a touring load might seem crazy, but several hundred kilometres of well-signed bike paths render it very enjoyable, as do ancient Roman ruins, medieval chateaux and ambrosial wines. This sun-drenched corner of Provence is a mix of manicured vineyards and ancient villages tumbling haphazardly down rocky slopes. Cool pine forests and blue fields of lavender stretch away on either side of the road. But the real goal here is legendary Mont Ventoux, scene of several Tour de France dramas, dominating the landscape and silently luring cyclist pilgrims to its summit.

Mont Ventoux is usually snow-covered above 1300m from December until May. The summit road is accessible only during the summer months.

4. San Juan Islands, Washington, USA

The ferry conveying you and your trusty steed from Seattle or Anacortes weaves its way calmly, the perfect introduction to the slow, peaceful character of these islands. Awaiting you are forested shorelines, secluded coves, bucolic vistas and quiet roads. The three largest islands, Lopez, Orcas and San Juan, each have their own distinctive charm, with historic sites and art galleries. The terrain is hilly, but each can be cycled in a day, including plenty of time to watch for seals, otters, sea lions and the odd orca, or black-tailed deer and eagles further inland.

Washington State Ferries provides the main transport link between Anacortes and the islands. The Victoria Clipper runs from Seattle to Friday Harbor.

5. County Clare, Ireland

Beginning in fertile lowlands flanking the Shannon estuary, this route rolls past golden-sand beaches to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher facing the Atlantic. Next come the music hotbed towns of Milltown Malbay and Doolin, where you enter a pub only if you’re in for the long haul – leaving before the last song is sung seems a monstrous breach of etiquette. From here progress to the relentlessly grey, yet captivating, limestone expanse of the Burren, reminiscent of a lunar landscape. Then take a sojourn into Yeats’ country before sauntering back in a loop through County Clare’s gentle patchwork countryside.

May and June are best for wildflowers in the Burren, while some accommodation opens only from June to August. Book well ahead during July and August.

6. La Farola, Cuba

Fascinating Cuba is a delight at helmet level. Try the spectacular 9km descent along the La Farola highway, from the crest of the Baracoa Mountains down to the south coast. The highway clings to cliffs hung in tropical vegetation, with guard rails protecting you from drop-to-nowhere gorges, before sweeping from one giant limestone ledge to the next, each turn providing a closer vista of wild open ocean. Built by the Revolutionary government, this magnificent mountain highway is an irresistible challenge for cyclists. Traditionally, the first stage of the Vuelta Ciclista Cuba (Cuba’s answer to the Tour de France) is run over this route.

Food options are minimal: be prepared to eat out of your panniers. It’s also essential to carry your own bike equipment and first-aid supplies.

7. National Highway 1, Vietnam

This iconic road runs the length of the narrow country from north to south. It is the most popular cycling route in Vietnam, a long but immensely rewarding trip along the best parts of Vietnam’s coastline. The route has some reasonable hills, climaxing in the mighty Hai Van Pass (496m) – with a breathtaking descent as pine-clad mountains loom to the west and the South China Sea vanishes into the east. Take the time along the way to gaze at networks of lush rice fields blanketing the hidden valleys below; fish, snorkel or dive the turquoise waters of the coast; and soak up the atmosphere of delightful rural hamlets.

The Indochina Trekking Company, based in Hanoi, offers a variety of cycling adventures in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand.

8. Otago Peninsula, New Zealand

With the first half decidedly laid-back and the second portion anything but, the mix of scenery and sweat make this one of the best one-day rides in the country. Starting from university-town Dunedin you soon shed the trappings of the city and succumb to the lure of the open road. The serpentine route twists pleasantly along the shore, providing tremendous ocean views, and the terrain is made for cycling. Then suddenly there’s a sharp turn to the right and you’re gaining altitude like a climbing fighter-jet. Get ready for steep climbs, fast descents and the odd albatross to keep you company. The route should be negotiable year-round whenever conditions are dry. However, you’re less likely to suffer frozen extremities on descents outside June to August.

9. Cape Breton Island, Canada

Image by archer10 (Dennis)

This justifiably renowned cycling route is best-known for the scenery – breathtaking rocky coastlines, the crystal clear Bras d’Or inland sea and the soaring ridges of the Cape Breton Highlands – especially in their autumn colours. But adventure-seekers will also be satisfied as gently rolling hills become invigorating mountains with some tough climbs and heart-thumping descents. Combined with local wildlife (such as beavers, moose and deer), quaint fishing villages, an intriguing Gaelic culture grown from French-Scottish roots and plenty of fresh ocean breezes, Cape Breton is the whole package.

The Celtic Colours roving music festival makes October a superb time to visit.

10. Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

By cycling the often overlooked, yet spectacular, far reaches of the northeast corner of Italy, you have the opportunity to intimately discover this earthy region. Along roads that make for easy pedalling, Slovenian farmers tend their fields in the strong sun, rows of vines cling to voluptuous hill country, and you smell the freshly tilled earth and feel the wind cool the sweat from your face. Then in the evenings, relax in a piazza to sample the region’s famous white wines and join the laidback locals for a chat. The route’s icing on the cake is the final scenic jaunt down the Istrian coast.

Want more inspiration? Check out our articles on cycling in Germany and Italy.

This article was updated in May 2012.

For more in-depth information on cycling, check out one of our cycling guides.

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Comments

31 August 2010 9:38PM ralot Report this comment
I can't believe Vietnam's Highway 1 is even on this list! Vietnam is a beautiful and very diverse country, but Highway 1 is certainly the very worst way to see it.
In contrast, Laos is a cyclist's dream...
8 September 2010 7:58PM colinmcgray Report this comment
One of the best cycle routes I've ever done, and easy peasy access, is the Western Islands, Scotland.
Ferry from Oban to the Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides and then take a 7 to 10 day cycle through Vatersay, S.Uist, Benbecula, N.Uist, Lewis and Harris to see amazing beaches, spectacular scenery, ridiculously friendly people and the most quiet, smooth cycling roads you'll ever see. It's gotta be up there with the best in the world.
14 February 2011 10:12PM taiwanincycles Report this comment
Taiwan's Cross Island Highway should be on the list. In not that then Taiwan's East Coast. Taiwan is a total cycling surprise.
26 February 2011 1:25AM peterfinn Report this comment
One of my best cycling trips was the 600 km Atlantic to Mediterranean route from Bordeaux to Montpellier in France along the Garonne River and the Canal du Midi. Most of the time on bike paths or deserted roads. Great sights, excellent food & wine.
27 April 2011 6:19PM toxny Report this comment
@Ralot - do agree with you. Vietnam's H1 is not that good and gets worse southward . However, I believe the sights along the way is cool, esp in the center area.
28 April 2011 1:14AM bikebloke Report this comment
Glasgow to Inverness is a great ride for scenery. The North Island of New Zealand has some arduous hill climbs, but worth it.
28 April 2011 1:44AM panife Report this comment
I live in San Martín de los Andes, Patagonia Argentina the route of "siete lagos" "seven lakes" it´s JUST GREAT! just look pictures!
28 April 2011 6:38AM hikebiketravel Report this comment
I have cycled Vietnam and IT would never make it on to my top 10 list. Yes Vietnam is a beautiful & interesting country but it's a nightmare on the roads for bikes - especially w outlots of experience. Cape Breton is fantastic but be aware that the grade at one point through the Nat'l Park is a whopping 13%/3 kms. County Clare is another scenic choice but again cyclists should be experienced. Posted speed limits are 80 km/hr on narrow, bumpy, winding roads. Cycling the San Juan Islands can be done in a day - if you aren't racing for ferries. Otherwise you're not likely to be able to cover as much ground as you'd like. I'd add in the Banff-Jasper Highway with its amazing vistas and lots of wildlife. Shoulders are wide so you still feel safe. The area around Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake is also excellent.
28 April 2011 3:52PM afatkid Report this comment
How can anyone have the audacity to write such a list? I may have missed something but one of these areas leaves me cold. Moreover who’s been everywhere? How many miles of road exist? do we all like road? The world’s best cycle tour hasn't been found yet, but "good news" it might be the next.
29 April 2011 1:14AM milacrewebrown Report this comment
Hi all, just did the 48.5 kms back from the Garganta del Diablo boc camyon into Cafayate two days ago. Its in Argentina's desertous North West region...amazing!
29 April 2011 3:21AM shandu Report this comment
Don't forget the state of Vermont in the U.S.. For road biking, hundreds of miles of back country roads (and hills) with many small towns and B&Bs. And for mountain bikers, the KIngdom Trails are world class.
31 May 2011 10:27PM thephuong8xvn Report this comment
Vietnam is very beautiful my home town, make a visit, you'll see a lot more than what this article introduces.
11 June 2011 5:23AM zendviet Report this comment
Vietnam is very beautiful my home town, make a visit, you'll see a lot more than what this article introduces.
12 June 2011 1:52AM granadainsider Report this comment
I cannot believe that the "death road" in Bolivia was on that. For pure adrenaline no cycling route can come close. It would be my number one.
4 July 2011 7:01PM asha95 Report this comment
You should come and check out the riding on Queensland's Gold Coast. We have great seaside rides, rides into the mountains with tropical rainforest and stunning rides through the cane fields. It's cycling paradise in Australia.
5 July 2011 6:48PM reworrah Report this comment
The Munda Biddi bike track in Western Australia.
5 July 2011 8:24PM thomaswamsteker Report this comment
What about 'the home of cycling' The Netherlands? With no less than 22.000 kilometres of bike lanes, the Dutch lowlands are a cycling paradise. You can make numerous trips on your bicycle and cycling is a unique way to see the Dutch countryside.
6 July 2011 9:16AM johnvkaravitis Report this comment
John V. Karavitis Wow, I'm glad I stumbled upon this forum! I love to run and bike ride, but I never thought about riding on trails in other countries. I'm curious, though. I really like the feel of my Schwinn bicycle, but I don't see myslef taking it with me to another country. I'm very very particular re the feel of both the bicycle and the bicycle seat, is it (1) easy to find a bike that "fits" and (2) how expensive can it get to rent a bicycle? Does it pay to take out extra insurance if traveling by bicycle in a foreign country, and how would one go about taking care of that? This seems like a good topic that needs more detailed information, and again, I never thought of bike riding on trails in a foreign country. Can anyone provide a link that would give more information? Thanks. John V. Karavitis
12 July 2011 4:42PM virginiaproud Report this comment
To John, Google has all your answers and there are many operators either guiding or renting bikes and equipment for most popular routes. You can take your own saddle with you and I've found this makes a huge difference. My last ride I didn't and suffered an arse like a giant bruise for 7 days, thankfully the ride was not difficult. Be careful to find a reputable operators, most sites have rider reviews which will give some hints as to how the bikes lived up to expecations. Decide whether the main point is the travelling, in which case a sub-optimal bike isn't critical, or the exercise, in which case you should stick with your own bike and ride at home :)
13 July 2011 3:37AM psquared Report this comment
I'd like to throw in the suggestion of Eritrea, from Asmara to Massawa on the Red Sea. I took this route by car 2 times and both times wished I was on a bike. But you better have strong brakes. I wouldn't recommend riding back to Asmara, as it is a STEEP, STEEP climb back.
13 July 2011 4:16AM bostoniano Report this comment
What about the Austral Highway in Chile?
19 July 2011 1:26AM inpassing Report this comment
I've just ridden the EV6 from France Atlantic to the Black Sea and the big surprise was Serbia. Very friendly people, good food and good accommodation at prices you woundn't bother camping. The ride through the Iron Gates has to be one of the best in the world.
28 July 2011 9:38AM sunnythehiace Report this comment
@johnvkaravitis - if you've not really considered cycling overseas before, check out this guy ("thebigafricacycle.com") for some inspiration - he's cycled from Japan to the UK and now the UK to South Africa (in progress) - there are plenty of other similar blogs out there - it's a huge community - bigger than you might expect!
28 January 2012 7:25PM stacky Report this comment
Wow; no KKH & no Lao!
John take your own bike; it's easier.
28 January 2012 8:55PM gurkan Report this comment
where is walkhan valley and pamir ? I haven't passed this palces yet. But ı will try to look them. www.gurkangenc.com also u can watch my videos
8 February 2012 7:08PM happynaga Report this comment
One of the great cycling routes is the Danube path from the source in Donaueschingen to the Black Sea, which joins the EuroVelo 6 route about 30km after its start. Aside from a few hills it is mostly easy terrain. In Germany and Austria the cycle route is usually on cycling paths or little used country roads, which makes it a great family route up to Vienna. Further down, the route follows often roads. For accommodation one has the choice between campsites, bed & breakfast places and hotels. Food is great too. To find out more, check out the Esterbauer cycling guides, available in English.
We've done the ride from the source to Budapest, 1,308km, in summer 2009 and plan to do the rest as soon as time allows.
2 March 2012 7:16PM abhi13 Report this comment
Scotland is one of the best and safest places for cycling. There are many companies which can help you arrange to make your cycling trip exciting and enjoyable and can also plan the route for you. http://gallowaycycling.co.uk/
25 March 2012 9:53AM sapote Report this comment
Stacky, re comment to John, i will share what i and a friend have done for several years, in a number of countries. we buy a used or fairly cheap bike. actually about the same price as shipping my own and not have to find box to go back and putting it together in airport or.... etc. then at end of trip we give the bike to a person or organization that helps people in need of bikes. my on going motto of 'support the local economy' is done several ways in that exchange. also i think encouraging locally run cyclist specific hostels would be a great thing. again local economy thanx
25 March 2012 9:54AM sapote Report this comment
oh wanted to add i love hearing all the other choices and comments of places, beyond just the 'list'
9 April 2012 12:07PM Peteandian Report this comment
We cycled a loop of Tasmania in three weeks, February 2012. We found the sheer abundance and variety of wildlife to be the biggest highlight. Much quieter roads (and better drivers) than the rest of Australia. Our full Tasmania trip log and route here:
http://www.peteandianhittheroad.co.uk/2012/02/cycling-tasmania/
12 April 2012 7:27AM anitamac Report this comment
Mallorca is definitely another one of those primo destinations for the avid cyclist! The island is teeming with cyclists March to May, and again in the fall. Just back from my fifth trip to cycling paradise - I am more than happy to share insights into cycling the island. Bike rentals are easy to come by and the drivers are great to share the road. Have been working on a series of postings about the riding - feel free to check it out: http://traveldestinationbucketlist.com/category/mallorca/ Happy riding!
6 May 2012 11:52AM running_on_ice Report this comment
I think that Colombia is about to get some much deserved notice for it's cycling very soon. It's an amazing place to ride, with a huge community of cyclists to ride with. I've written a fair bit about it here: http://travelingtocolombia.com/cycling-colombia-2/