Exploring the world by bicycle is one of the most rewarding ways to travel. It’s sustainable, adventurous, and lets you immerse yourself in landscapes and cultures at a slower, more intimate pace.
Whether you’re a seasoned bikepacker seeking rugged trails or a casual rider looking for a scenic day trip, the planet is full of breathtaking cycling routes that suit every level.
Best Cycling Tracks in the World
From the emerald valleys of Ireland to the snowy peaks of Tibet, here are some of the best cycling tracks in the world.
1. Loire à Vélo, France
In the land of fine food, wine, and gently rolling countryside lies the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching to the Atlantic coast.
The Loire à Vélo trail is part of the famous EuroVelo 6 route, passing vineyards, rivers, and fairytale castles such as Château d’Angers.
With dedicated cycling facilities, hotels, and even a special train for bikes, it’s one of Europe’s most welcoming cycling adventures.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Loire Valley, from Nevers to the Atlantic Ocean |
| Length | 900 km |
| Duration | 1–2 weeks (depending on pace) |
| Best time | April–October |
2. Trans Dinarica Trail, Western Balkans
National parks, remote villages, and crowd-free landscapes define the Trans Dinarica Trail, the first cycling route to connect all seven Western Balkan countries.
Stretching over 5,500 km, it passes through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Serbia. Riders can tackle shorter sections, each paired with local accommodations and eateries.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Western Balkans (7 countries) |
| Length | 5,500 km |
| Duration | 1 week to several months |
| Best time | May–September |
3. Route of Caravans, Morocco
This historic route takes cyclists from the Sahara Desert past the Atlas Mountains and up to Morocco’s northern coast.
Along the 840 km trail, expect both vibrant towns like Chefchaouen and Fez, as well as untouched landscapes and nomadic villages. Many cyclists extend the journey by ferry to Spain.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Imilchil to Tangiers |
| Length | 840 km |
| Duration | Around 2 weeks |
| Best time | Year-round (avoid Ramadan for supplies) |
4. The Shimanami Kaido, Japan
Japan’s Shimanami Kaido crosses six islands linked by impressive bridges across the Seto Inland Sea. With bike hire points and minimal hills, it’s perfect for families and beginners. Many choose to take their time and enjoy local stays, seafood, and sea views along the way.
The dedicated bike lanes will take you across scenic bridges and ferry connections, making it accessible for cyclists of all levels. Riders are treated to panoramic views of turquoise waters, verdant hills, and quaint island villages.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Seto Inland Sea, Honshu to Shikoku |
| Length | 70 km |
| Duration | 1–2 days |
| Best time | March–May or October–December |
5. MizMal, Ireland
Running the length of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way, the MizMal route connects Mizen Head to Malin Head. Cyclists pass rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and lively towns such as Galway and Donegal, with highlights including the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park.
Well-marked trails and varied terrain cater to both casual cyclists and more adventurous riders, making Mizmal a destination where outdoor activity, cultural discovery, and environmental appreciation come together seamlessly.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Mizen Head to Malin Head |
| Length | 845 km |
| Duration | Around 1 week |
| Best time | May–September |
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Carretera_Austral_-_Leones.JPG
6. Carretera Austral, Chile
Known as Route 7, the Carretera Austral is one of South America’s most remote and dramatic cycling trails. Winding through Patagonia, it offers breathtaking views of the Andes, turquoise lakes, and vast open plains. Supplies can be sparse, but the rewards include glaciers, national parks, and tiny villages.
The road is a mix of paved and gravel sections, providing a challenging ride through rugged terrain. Wildlife sightings, including condors and guanacos, are common, and the route connects national parks like Queulat and Patagonia’s Southern Ice Fields.
Its combination of natural beauty, isolation, and varied conditions makes the Carretera Austral a demanding but rewarding destination for experienced cyclists.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins |
| Length | 1,200 km |
| Duration | 25–30 days |
| Best time | October–March |
7. Kinderdijk Windmill Route, The Netherlands
The Netherlands is a cycling paradise, and its Kinderdijk Windmill Route is a relaxing 43 km ride through flat, scenic landscapes dotted with 19 historic windmills. The route also meanders along canals, reservoirs, and the River Lek, making it ideal for beginners and day trips.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Kinderdijk, near Rotterdam |
| Length | 43 km |
| Duration | Less than a day |
| Best time | Year-round |
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sagarmatha_Trek_02.jpg
8. The Friendship Highway, Tibet & Nepal
For experienced riders seeking high-altitude adventure, the Friendship Highway is unforgettable. Crossing passes above 5,000 meters, it connects Lhasa to Kathmandu and includes stops at Everest Base Camp, glaciers, and ancient monasteries before descending into Nepal’s capital.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lhasa to Kathmandu |
| Length | 800 km |
| Duration | Around 20 days |
| Best time | April–October |
9. Munda Biddi Trail, Australia
Meaning “path through the forest” in the Noongar language, the Munda Biddi Trail is one of the world’s longest off-road cycling tracks.
It takes riders through eucalyptus forests, wildflower meadows, and stunning coastlines of Western Australia.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Perth to Albany, Western Australia |
| Length | 1,067 km |
| Duration | 15–25 days |
| Best time | March–May |
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:-conservationlands15_Social_Media_Takeover,_May_15,_Top_15_Trails_to_Blaze_on_BLM%E2%80%99s_National_Conservation_Lands_(17079174004).jpg
10. Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR), Canada/USA
The GDMBR is the ultimate endurance cycling challenge. Stretching 4,300 km from Canada’s Banff National Park to the US-Mexico border, it passes through the Rockies, deserts, forests, and some of North America’s most spectacular national parks.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Banff, Canada to Antelope Wells, New Mexico |
| Length | 4,300 km |
| Duration | 35–40 days |
| Best time | Late May–October |
Bottom Line
From gentle rides through vineyards and windmills to epic cross-continental journeys, the best cycling tracks in the world showcase nature, culture, and the spirit of adventure in every pedal stroke.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely day trip or a life-changing expedition, these trails prove that sometimes the best way to see the world is on two wheels.
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