10 Best Bicycle Tours to Try Before You Die

Apr 22
06:05

2024

vikram kumar

vikram kumar

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Embarking on a bicycle tour is not only a thrilling adventure but also a fantastic way to enhance your physical health and connect with nature. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the world offers myriad paths that promise breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. From the rugged terrains of North America to the scenic coasts of Europe, each route has its unique charm and challenges. Here, we explore ten of the most spectacular bicycle tours globally that should be on every cyclist's bucket list.

North America's Pristine Trails

The Pacific Coast Highway,10 Best Bicycle Tours to Try Before You Die Articles USA

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Astoria, Oregon to Santa Cruz, California
  • Distance: Approximately 900 miles
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October

The Pacific Coast Highway offers cyclists a vibrant tapestry of landscapes, from misty beaches to lush forests. The route promises not only awe-inspiring views but also a chance to explore major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. According to Adventure Cycling Association, this route is among the most popular in the United States, attracting thousands of cyclists each year.

The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, North America

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Banff, Alberta, Canada to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, USA
  • Distance: Over 2,700 miles
  • Best Time to Visit: June to September

This route is the longest off-pavement bike route in the world, traversing the Continental Divide. It is not for the faint-hearted, typically requiring three months to complete. The route offers an immersive experience into untouched wilderness, providing a pure and challenging adventure for adrenaline seekers.

Asia's Exotic Paths

Japan's Nationwide Tour

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Flexible; popular starting points include Tokyo and Kyoto
  • Distance: Varies; Japan offers extensive cycling paths across the country
  • Best Time to Visit: April to November

Exploring Japan by bike is an affordable and enriching experience. The country's well-maintained roads and hospitable culture make it an ideal destination for cyclists. Attractions range from historic temples and gardens to modern cities and culinary delights.

Europe's Historic Routes

The Danube Cycle Path, Germany to Hungary

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Donaueschingen, Germany to Budapest, Hungary
  • Distance: About 1,800 kilometers
  • Best Time to Visit: May to September

Ideal for families and beginners, the Danube Cycle Path is one of Europe's most famous cycling routes. It offers a well-signposted, mostly flat path with plenty of resources and scenic stops along the way, including Vienna and Bratislava.

Route du Comte Jean, Belgium

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Bruges to De Panne
  • Distance: Approximately 50 miles
  • Best Time to Visit: April to October

Known for its gentle terrain and coastal breezes, this route is perfect for a leisurely ride. Cyclists can enjoy the picturesque Belgian countryside and the refreshing North Sea air.

South America's Untamed Landscapes

The Ruta Austral, Chile

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Puerto Montt to Villa O'Higgins
  • Distance: Over 1,200 kilometers
  • Best Time to Visit: December to March

This route is a paradise for nature lovers, winding through Patagonia's dramatic landscapes. Cyclists encounter dense forests, remote national parks, and stunning glaciers, making it a truly epic journey.

Unique Tours Around the World

Vietnam's Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
  • Distance: Approximately 1,200 kilometers
  • Best Time to Visit: November to April

This challenging route offers a mix of cultural immersion and physical endurance, with vibrant cities, rural villages, and varied terrain.

Canada's Great Trail

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Varies; the trail spans across Canada
  • Distance: Over 24,000 kilometers
  • Best Time to Visit: May to September

Formerly known as the Trans Canada Trail, this vast network offers sections ideal for cycling, showcasing Canada's diverse landscapes.

Baja California, Mexico

Route Highlights:

  • Start/End: Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas
  • Distance: About 1,000 miles
  • Best Time to Visit: November to March

This lesser-traveled route promises an adventure through deserts, mountains, and along the coast, with minimal traffic and plenty of spots for camping.

Gran Fondo Campagnolo, Italy

Route Highlights:

  • Event: Annual, typically in June
  • Distance: Varies by year
  • Best Time to Visit: June for the event; otherwise, May to September

This celebrated annual event draws cyclists from around the world, offering a challenging course through Italy's picturesque landscapes.

Each of these tours offers a unique way to explore the world on two wheels, providing not just exercise but a profound connection with diverse cultures and environments. Whether you seek solitude in nature or the camaraderie of fellow cyclists, these routes promise memorable experiences that last a lifetime.

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