Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
WHAT ARE THE MOST SCENIC COASTAL CYCLING TOURS?
Cycling along the coast combines the thrill of the open road with breathtaking views of the sea. Coastal tours offer a unique mix of challenging climbs, fresh ocean air, and cultural stops in fishing villages and seaside towns. From the rugged cliffs of Europe to the tropical beaches of Asia, coastal cycling routes are some of the most memorable adventures a rider can undertake. This guide explores the most scenic coastal cycling tours worldwide and what makes them unforgettable.
European coastal routes
Europe offers some of the most iconic coastal cycling routes, blending natural beauty with cultural richness. Riders can explore dramatic cliffs, Mediterranean coastlines, and historic seaside towns that make every kilometer rewarding.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its winding roads, colorful villages, and sweeping sea views. While narrow and challenging, this route offers cyclists a combination of climbs and descents framed by UNESCO heritage landscapes. Highlights include Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, where riders can pause for authentic Italian food with a view.
Atlantic Coast, France and Spain
Stretching from Brittany through the Basque Country, this route delivers Atlantic winds, rugged coastlines, and lively culture. It’s part of the EuroVelo 1, offering cyclists long stretches of ocean views combined with quiet fishing harbors and surf towns like Biarritz.
Amalfi Coast – Narrow, challenging, and visually stunning.
Atlantic Coast – EuroVelo 1 route through France and Spain.
North Coast 500 (Scotland) – Remote beauty along rugged coastlines.
Costa Brava (Spain) – Mediterranean charm with quiet roads and fishing villages.
European routes combine cultural depth with dramatic scenery, making them ideal for riders who enjoy history and landscape in equal measure.
American coastal tours
From California’s Pacific coastline to the rugged shores of South America, the Americas provide some of the longest and most diverse coastal cycling opportunities. Routes here often combine vast landscapes with opportunities for multi-day adventure rides.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles is one of the world’s most iconic cycling routes. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and cliffs on the other, riders experience unforgettable scenery. Stops like Big Sur and Monterey add to the magic, though strong winds and traffic make it a route for experienced cyclists.
Carretera Austral, Chile
Running through Patagonia, the Carretera Austral is a remote and challenging tour that rewards cyclists with glaciers, fjords, and untouched wilderness. Gravel sections add difficulty, but the payoff is cycling through one of the most pristine natural environments on Earth.
Pacific Coast Highway (USA) – Classic ocean road from San Francisco to LA.
Carretera Austral (Chile) – Remote Patagonian wilderness and fjords.
Ruta do Sol (Brazil) – Tropical coastline with vibrant culture.
Cabot Trail (Canada) – Cape Breton’s rugged Atlantic scenery.
Cyclists in the Americas encounter epic distances, diverse climates, and landscapes that range from deserts to rainforests—all framed by the ocean.
Asian and global highlights
Beyond Europe and the Americas, Asia and other global regions offer cycling tours with tropical coastlines, cultural richness, and unique challenges. These routes are ideal for cyclists seeking both adventure and immersion in local traditions.
Ho Chi Minh Highway to Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam’s coastal routes combine pristine beaches, mountain passes, and historic towns. The stretch from Hue to Hoi An is particularly stunning, with the Hai Van Pass offering sweeping sea views. Riders enjoy not just the landscape but also warm hospitality and fresh coastal cuisine.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list ride featuring dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and iconic rock formations like the Twelve Apostles. Smooth tarmac and designated cycling routes make it a safe and rewarding experience for riders of different levels.
Vietnam’s coastal routes – Hai Van Pass and Hoi An highlights.
Great Ocean Road (Australia) – Iconic scenery and well-maintained roads.
Garden Route (South Africa) – Blend of wildlife and ocean views.
South Island Coastal Roads (New Zealand) – Remote beauty with mountain backdrops.
Global coastal tours showcase the diversity of landscapes, cultures, and challenges, making them perfect for cyclists who seek adventure beyond the ordinary.
In conclusion, the most scenic coastal cycling tours offer more than just a road—they deliver an experience shaped by landscapes, culture, and the sea itself. From Italy’s Amalfi Coast to Chile’s Carretera Austral and Vietnam’s Hai Van Pass, these routes are as challenging as they are rewarding, proving that the best views often come after the hardest climbs.
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