Cycling is a fantastic way to see some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery. It might be the ideal balance of workout and sightseeing for cycling enthusiasts. If you got bored with your neighbourhood and nearby parks and are looking for challenging yet spectacular routes for your next ride, here are 5 of the world’s most stunning cycling routes.
1. Cap de Formentor – Spain
The Cap de Formentor peninsula, the northernmost point of the island of Mallorca, offers fantastic views of Pollensa Bay. The bike path stretches along the coast for 40 kilometres, ending at the beautiful Formentor Lighthouse, the highest in the Balearic Islands, having a focal height of 210 metres above sea level. This route allows cyclists to explore Mallorca’s nature and enjoy the spectacular scenery, sea views and tranquillity along the rocky Mediterranean coastline.
2. Route des Vins d’Alsace – Germany and France
On 51 kilometres across France and Germany, the Route des Vins d’Alsace offers a diverse scenery. It passes through picturesque vineyards, charming small towns, such as Colmar, Obernai and Barr, medieval villages, like Rosheim and Riquewihr, and the Middle Ages castle, Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. Enjoying the local cuisine and, of course, aromatic wines along the way is a must!
3. Shimanami Kaido – Japan
The Shimanami Kaido is a very well-developed cycle route and one of the best-known in Japan. You can safely ride along and never get lost because the whole path has a blue line that shows you the directions, while specialised retail shops and rest areas along the way will provide you with air pumps, water and snacks. Depending on your proficiency level you can choose among 3 types of routes: the beginner course, the short course and the 70 kilometres long full course, which goes from Onomichi to Imabari. Besides offering breathtaking scenery along with the cool sea breeze, the path also passes through local fishing villages and fields of Hassaku orange trees.
4. The Great Ocean Road – Australia
If you’re up for a challenge, you can attempt cycling along the Great Ocean Road. One of the world’s greatest driving roads, the 253-kilometre highway, going from Geelong to Warrnambool, is also accessible for cycling. With many uphill and downhill parts, the full route is not for beginners, however, there are shorter paths, such as the 61-kilometre-long Port Campbell to Warrnambool segment, which only takes around 3 hours. The Great Ocean Road offers a stunning cycling experience along the beautiful coastline with vibrant green scenery, mountains and wild beaches.
5. Great Divide Mountain Bike Route – Canada and USA
Starting in Banff, Alberta, Canada, and finishing at the US-Mexico border in Antelope Wells, New Mexico, the route passes through 4,300 kilometres of untamed beauty. The path is almost 90% off-pavement so prepare yourself for a tough ride on some of the harshest trails, dirt roads and gravel paths in North America. With high chances of mountain lion and grizzly bear encounters, this route is not for the faint of heart, but the views are worth the risk, especially in Alberta’s Flathead Valley, Wyoming’s Great Divide Basin, Colorado’s Boreas Pass, or New Mexico’s Gila Wilderness. In 2016, Mike Hall set a record for finishing the tour in just 13 days, 22 hours, and 51 minutes.
