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 CYCLING TOURS IN THE WORLD?
Scenic cycling tours combine fitness with unforgettable landscapes, making them a top choice for riders of all levels. Whether you crave the mountain air of the Alps, the coastal beauty of New Zealand, or the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, there’s a global cycling adventure waiting. This guide explores the most visually stunning rides across continents—highlighting what makes each one iconic. From cultural immersion to natural wonders, these cycling tours offer the perfect balance of challenge and awe. Strap in for a ride around the world’s most jaw-dropping roads.
Iconic climbs and mountain scenery
Some of the most scenic cycling experiences in the world come from legendary mountain routes that blend physical challenge with dramatic elevation and views. These epic climbs often feature in pro tours like the Tour de France or Giro d’Italia, but they’re also accessible to experienced amateurs. Riders are rewarded with pristine landscapes, fresh alpine air, and panoramic summit views that make every switchback worth it.
Top mountainous cycling tours worldwide
From the French Alps to the Andes of South America, cycling tours through high-altitude passes deliver an unmatched visual and athletic experience. Multi-day packages often include van support, gear transfers, and guided routes, allowing cyclists to focus on the ride—and the views.
Alpe d’Huez, France – Iconic 21 hairpin bends with stunning Alpine backdrops.
Stelvio Pass, Italy – Snow-capped peaks and narrow cliffside roads create unmatched drama.
Colombian Andes – Lush green valleys and high-altitude routes with vibrant culture.
The Great Dolomites Road, Italy – Limestone peaks and scenic villages throughout.
Colorado Rockies, USA – Scenic national parks and wide-open mountain passes.
Mountain tours are best tackled during the warmest months, and while they demand preparation, the visual rewards and sense of achievement are second to none. These tours are perfect for riders who thrive on endurance and scenic overload.
Coastal rides and ocean views
Cycling by the sea offers a different kind of beauty—expansive horizons, salty air, and rolling terrain that mirrors the coast’s natural curves. Coastal cycling tours tend to be more accessible than mountainous ones, making them ideal for a broader range of cyclists. These routes are often dotted with charming towns, fresh seafood stops, and ample photo ops.
Top coastal cycling destinations
Riding alongside oceans and seas adds a relaxing yet visually rich dynamic. Wind can play a factor, but many coastal tours are designed to avoid tough headwinds. Riders can enjoy long stretches of shoreline, cliffside roads, and beachside overnights.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA – From Oregon to California, this ride offers cliffside drama and endless beaches.
Amalfi Coast, Italy – A luxurious ride along historic roads overlooking turquoise Mediterranean waters.
Garden Route, South Africa – Wild beaches, forests, and wildlife add to the visual feast.
Great Ocean Road, Australia – Wind-carved cliffs and iconic surf towns line the path.
Atlantic Way, Ireland – A mystical blend of ocean mist, ancient ruins, and green cliffs.
Coastal cycling tours offer a blend of effort and leisure, with options ranging from multi-day supported trips to day-long excursions. The scenery shifts constantly, making every kilometer visually engaging and energizing.
Cultural landscapes and rural beauty
Not all scenic cycling tours are about elevation or oceans—many of the most rewarding rides pass through rural villages, ancient roads, and culturally rich areas. These routes blend visual beauty with immersive travel, offering riders a deeper connection to the landscapes they traverse. Expect vineyard views, castle silhouettes, rice paddies, and timeworn pathways that carry centuries of history.
Best culturally immersive scenic tours
These tours prioritize storytelling through terrain. The landscapes aren’t just pretty—they’re meaningful, shaped by generations of farmers, builders, and travelers. Often flatter or rolling, these tours are perfect for riders who enjoy blending exploration with cycling comfort.
Loire Valley, France – Châteaux, vineyards, and smooth riverside paths.
Tuscany, Italy – Rolling hills, olive groves, and picturesque villages with Renaissance charm.
Kyoto countryside, Japan – Temple gardens, bamboo forests, and scenic rice fields.
Mekong Delta, Vietnam – Lush, flat routes through rural farming communities and floating markets.
Camino de Santiago, Spain – A spiritual and scenic pilgrimage ride across rustic Iberian beauty.
These tours offer more than great photos—they provide context, culture, and connection. Ideal for slow travelers and curious riders, they turn each pedal stroke into part of a larger story. If you’re looking for visual richness with historical flavor, these are the routes to prioritize.
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