Whether you are a devoted cyclist or like to do it occasionally for fun, there is no better way to experience a new place than on a bicycle. In a car, things pass by too quickly for you to
truly take them in and when walking you won’t be able to cover nearly as much ground. Cycling enables you to immerse yourself in the environment you are in, from the sounds and the smells which you may otherwise miss. Not only that, cycling is more affordable than travelling by car, you don’t have to worry about the cost of fuel and parking. Cycling allows you to feel a real sense of accomplishment.
In this article we explore some of the best cycling tours around the world that you have to consider next time you think about planning a cycle trip.
Guided cycling tour Vs self guided tour
When it comes to cycling tours, there are two main options you can choose from. Guided tours and self guided cycling tours.
If you are someone who likes to be independent and flexible to explore, a self guided tour may be the best option for you. They are more affordable than a guided tour whilst providing you with a level of support and convenience that allows you to explore as you wish on your own schedule. It is important to consider the risk of mechanical issues which may arise, however if you are prepared to fix your bicycle along the way, this may not be an issue for you. One way in which you can prepare for a self guided cycling tour is by learning the basics of cycle maintenance. There are a variety of courses available both paid and free, our favourite provider is Cycle Maintenance Academy who provide easy to follow guides on youtube and their website which you can access completely free.
If you prefer travelling with a group or meeting new people, having a guided tour might be your best bet. A guided tour will include a structured daily schedule that will allow you to travel through places of interest with additional excursions on offer along the way. This can be a great way to get a full experience of a new place, particularly if any issues arise and you need to pause your tour for any reason.
Top 5 cycling trips:
Death Valley
A truly unique experience which is very remote is Death Valley. Located in California, USA this cycle tour will allow you to explore thick volcanic craters, multi coloured sandstone and humongous sand dunes in the day and see stunning sunsets and star filled skies at night. During this tour you will have a stopover at the Badwater Basic, the lowest point in North America which is another unique experience in itself.
Pokhara to Kathmandu
One of the most recognised destinations for mountain biking is Nepal. Our favourite cycling tour is the Pokhara to Kathmandu which covers classical rides including the Kali Horseshoe with unreal views of the Annapurna Massif before riding eastwards via the Marshyangdi River to the ridge top town of Gorkha. After that the cycle route becomes exceptionally challenging where you will climb to the rim of Kathmandu before a fun downhill ride back to the bustling Kathmandu. The terrain is diverse and the scenery is stunning, this cycle tour is sure to be an unforgettable one.
Lake Geneva
If you are looking for a cycle route that is suitable for almost any level, Lake Geneva in Switzerland is a great option. The scenery is sensational with views of the French Alps on the horizon, vineyards staggering down to the glistening shores and a number of traditional villages, this really is the full package when it comes to cycle holidays. The route is flat for the most part and largely involves country tracks with amazing views of the lake as you pedal past beaches, hamlets all the way up to the medieval Chateau de Chillon.
Baltic States
Why not explore the Baltic states by cycling through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. This ride is gentle but lengthy allowing you to take in the must see sights of riga, Tallinn and Vilnius. You can take a calming cycle around the traditional villages and rest tired legs but having a dip in the Balstic sea or embrace the wilderness in the ancient woodlands of Estonia in Lahemaa national park.
Vietnam
If you want to embrace vibrant sights, sounds and smells, a tour of Vietnam is a great option. We recommend the cycling tour from Hanoi to Saigon where you can uncover craftsmanship that is centuries-old in the traditional villages across the Red River Delta. You can also see miles of vegetable gardens along the Duong River. During your cycle trip you can stop and refuel with tasty home cooked food in Phu Thai and learn about the local traditions from the friendly locals.
Where will your next cycling tour be?
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