Cycling is traveling at your own pace, where you can take in the scenery without reducing it to a blur. And while it looks like a solitary activity, you can always opt for company like your family to share the view and the experience of biking tours.
Where do you want to go for your next cycling adventure? The world is one huge meandering, challenging, and exciting path where the cycling pros and enthusiasts ride. Take your trusty bike with you, and explore the best trails and tracks around the world in two wheels.
Cycling Adventures, Anyone?
There are probably over 10 reasons cycling is everything. It’s a physical activity that is good for the body, particularly your lungs and your muscles. Training with a power meter quantifies your cycling performance and helps you set realistic fitness goals—it’s a tool that can be put to good use when on long-distance biking tours.
Speaking of cycling trips, travel light, and keep your load balanced. If you can, bring clothes fit for the weather and for on and off the bicycle. For those riding with panniers, consider where you are going as the setup will differ if you go off-roading or touring. With you all set and packed, it’s time to get started with the best cycling adventures the seven continents have to offer.
Journey to the South Pole, Antarctica
The ice and the cold raise the bar for cycling adventures in Antarctica. Given the weather conditions in the continent, only the brave and prepared tread on its snow-laden land with specialized bikes. That’s why expeditions is a term commonly used to denote that this is no ordinary biking tour.
Most cycling expeditions to the South Pole start at Hercules Inlet, a narrow inlet on the Ross Ice Shelf. The journey can take 25 days at a minimum amid snow, sand, and subzero weather conditions.
Outback Trail, Australia
One of Antarctica’s next-door neighbors, Australia has numerous trails ideal for walking and biking spread out in the country slash continent. If you are looking for the Great Outback experience, the Red Centre Adventure Ride is an option.
This trail represents 200 kilometers of off-road mountain biking experience that covers two of Northern Territory’s (NT) wildlife parks. Although the multiday bike ride sounds like an adventure for the seasoned bikers, the NT government assures that the track is open to all skill levels.
Scenic/Historical Tour, North America
Where does your bike take you to Canada? There’s the Route Verte, which, according to National Geographic, traverses across Quebec. It represents many bike trails that take you to both sides of the Saint Lawrence River, as well as the mountainscapes of the Laurentian mountains.
For a touch of poignant history, there’s the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route. This trail tracks the journey of slaves as they escape to freedom. The route itself stretches from Alabama to Canada and averages six weeks to complete.
Path of the Incas, South America
Peru’s Ollantaytambo is a jump-off point between the two most important reminders of the Inca civilization, the capital city of Cusco and the most famous ruins of Machu Picchu. Rightfully so, it is the jump-off point of the famous Inca trail.
There are many biking trails scattered around Ollantaytambo that offer the best views to the ruins, llamas, and more. Don’t forget to bring a map.
Safari Bike Ride, Africa
There’s a way to get in and around the national wildlife parks and conservation areas of Africa, and it’s not through the stereotyped Jeep. You can try a cycling holiday in Tanzania, where riding past baboons, zebras, and warthogs is the experience.
A report notes that there is a safety check before any bike tour begins. You may have to ask your travel agent or the tour organizer for other concerns.
Cycle the Grand Circuit, Asia
The Grand Circuit is paying homage to the ruins of temples around Cambodia’s Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. And in case you haven’t heard or tried, you can explore the area by bike.
There’s no escaping the heat, but you will be rewarded by views of ancient temple ruins that are often missed by traditional guided tours.
Ancient Pilgrimage Route, Europe
With its castles, churches, and manors, Europe is one to beat in terms of long-distance cycle tours. A popular trail among cyclists is the ancient pilgrim route called Via Francigena, which stretches from France, passing England and Switzerland en route to Rome.
You can reprise the journey of the archbishop of Canterbury via biking. You can stop over in France, although Italy offers more accommodation options for modern pilgrims like you.
That was a ride! Any memorable cycling adventure or tips you’d like to share? Drop a comment below.