World’s 9 Best Destinations for Greatest Cycling Adventures
With so many ways to travel the world, it can be hard to pick the best approach. However, the truth is that there is no one approach that works for everyone. Some people prefer flying directly to their destination, while others prefer taking a road trip with their car and seeing everything along the way.
If cycling is your preferred way of exploring, you are probably always on the lookout for new trails that will allow you to familiarize yourself with the local people, culture, and attractions. Cycling is also great for your health so if you choose this type of traveling you’ll have numerous benefits.
No matter whether you like to travel alone, with friends, or with young kids, whether you are looking for a relaxing journey or an adrenaline-filled ride, and if you like to follow your own itinerary or join a guided tour, you will surely find a destination that you are still to visit. Keep on reading for some breathtaking cycling adventures.
Bike through Baltic countries
If you are looking for a tour that will take you through several countries, why not give the Baltic countries a go? There are many cycle tours available that will allow you to visit Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania but you can also create a plan for yourself and tackle this adventure on your own. It’s best to schedule this tour for late spring or summer when the weather is the most pleasant.
Create a schedule that will allow you to visit all the interesting bars of Riga, Tallinn’s Old Town and the medieval spires, and the gorgeous beaches of Curonian Spit National Park located in Lithuania. The road will take you along the famous Route 10, past splendid lakes, and through the forests and countrysides of these stunning countries.
Experience Kazakhstan’s Silk Road
A mountain biking holiday through Central Asia that will let you discover the magic of this region might be just what you are looking for. Consider booking a guided tour of the south-eastern part of Kazakhstan that will lead you through the Silk Road and leave you breathless. While in Tian Shan’s northern foothills, you will be faced with a mix of gravel and surfaced roads that go through the steppes of a couple of impressive valleys.
You’ll get a chance to pay a visit to isolated farming villages as well as see nomadic shepherds with their sheep and horses. During the trip, you will visit Charyn Canyon, the Kegen Plateau, Lake Tuzkol, and the Altyn-Emel National Park desert landscapes where you can cycle in between sandstone formations.
Try mountain biking in Tasmania
Australia is full of stunning bike trails and you can try every single one of them if you have the time. However, if you are looking for something a bit more extreme, you can visit the Tasmanian town of Derby. With a population of 173, this mining town welcomes around 30 thousand visitors each year. You might be wondering what is the appeal of this place. Well, it is home to some of the best mountain bike trails in the world, according to Enduro World Series riders.
It doesn’t matter if you are an expert, a beginner, or someone traveling with their kids, there is a wide range of trails to pick from. You can bring your own gravel bike or hire one on the spot, and there are even repair shops in case you need some help. Peak riding conditions are in April to mid-June and in September to the middle of November, so plan accordingly.
Go on a Patagonian adventure
In case life takes you to South America, you should take this opportunity to visit Chile and go on a Patagonian adventure. Often seen as the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Patagonia is also home to the Carretera Austral, a route that runs for over 1,200 kilometers.
Also known as Southern Way, this road is partially unpaved and deserted. This means that you will get to see rural sights and untouched nature in the shape of forests, lakes, mountains, and glaciers. Not for the faint of heart, this undertaking should only be attempted during the summer when the weather is at its best.
See the magnificence of India
When traveling to India, there are many sights to see but you should consider going on a bike tour to see the true beauty of this country. The state of Rajasthan offers an interesting trail from Udaipur to the Taj Mahal and by hopping on, you will get to see the stunning colors of India.
While Udaipur is known as the City of Lakes and the Venice of the East due to its stunning streams, rivers, and lakes, there are also magnificent forts, temples, and palaces that you will get to see along the way. Of course, the majestic Taj Mahal should not be overlooked either as the highlight of the trip.
Cross North America by bike
If you’re looking for a big achievement you can brag about, why not cross North America by bike? By taking the Great Divide, you will go from Canada to the USA-Mexican border. You will start in the town of Banff in Alberta, follow the trail through Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado, and finish your journey near Antelope Wells in New Mexico, on the border with Mexico.
Seeing as how much of the road has rough terrain and lacks pavement, you will need quality mountain bike tires and suspension forks. Taking on the whole route means that you will spend around three months on the road, so prepare properly.
Pedal through Morocco
Morocco is a country with many beautiful bike trails, including the route from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert and the one between Agadir and Essaouira. However, if you prefer going off the beaten track, the biking tour of Toubkal might be the right choice. This scenic trail usually takes nine days during which you will cover over 680 kilometers.
Seeing as how this is a mountainous area with many uphill and downhill slopes, you will need plenty of physical strength and endurance as well as quality equipment. The effort will be well worth it as you will get to see Morocco’s marvelous mountains and desert regions.
Familiarize yourself with Vietnam
In case you are looking for a budget-friendly destination that still offers unique cycling opportunities, look no further than Vietnam. This country is a favorite among adventure travelers and you will surely love it as well. If you choose to go from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, you will get a chance to familiarize yourself with the largest urban areas of the country and experience the local culture.
You should know that the route is 1,200 kilometers long and unevenly paved, which is why experience and endurance are a must. Along the way, you will see the Hai Van Pass as well as gorgeous beaches you can relax on and recharge your batteries.
Cycle through the wonders of New Zealand
Finally, don’t overlook New Zealand as a potential cycling destination. Known for its natural beauty full of pristine plains and rivers, New Zealand will take your breath away while you bike through the South Island. You can start in Queenstown and continue to the Central Otago Rail Trail that includes small towns like Alexandra, Wedderburn, and Hyde. With welcoming people, you will also enjoy the hospitality of local taverns and try some of their delicious wines.
The world is full of stunning locations that are just waiting to be explored. Gather your friends, bring your bikes or rent some once you reach your destination, and enjoy everything that the country you are visiting has to offer.
