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There are many ways to explore a new place, and one of our favourites is from the back of a bicycle. There’s real magic to pedalling through colourful fishing villages in Vietnam or along the undulating trails of the Portuguese coast.
Enjoy a connection to the landscape and culture around you that is unlike any other way of travelling. A bike tour is the perfect way to cover a fair amount of ground each day while still being exposed to all the sights, smells, and sounds of your destination.
Plus, our cycling tours allow you to get off the beaten path and reach hidden gems you wouldn’t be able to get to on a tour bus or in a car – and did we mention local food?! In honour of bike month, our bike-loving travel specialists have put together a list of some of the most unique cycling destinations.
Croatia
Hvar Island
The Island of Hvar
Have you ever wanted to cycle in the footsteps of the Romans? Nestled along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, Hvar is an island paradise with an ancient Roman road.
Cycling along this road from Stari Grad through the old villages and to Hvar city, allows you to see ancient walls, fortresses, and beautifully-crafted buildings that date back as many as seven hundred years. Witness crystal-clear waters, coastal beaches, and breathtaking views of the nearby island of Brac.
From architecture and culture to stunning ocean views, lavender fields, a Spanish fortress, and one of Europe’s oldest theatres, Hvar is the ideal destination for an intrepid cyclist. The hills offer just enough of a challenge to make the views from the top all the sweeter.
Take me there: CYCLING THE DALMATIAN COAST
Vietnam
Hillside views of Hai Van Pass
The Pass of the Ocean Clouds
Vietnam’s Hai Van Pass, or the ‘Pass of the Ocean Clouds’, is a 20-kilometre-long pass through the mountains of the Annamite range, taking you up to a summit before plummeting down towards the ocean.
The best word to describe cycling in Vietnam is epic. From the staggering views to the effort required to reach the peak, this cycle isn’t for the faint of heart, but those brave enough to make the attempt will be rewarded with spectacular and unique scenery. Carrying on along the road takes cyclists to Hue, the cultural and historical centre of Vietnam.
Take me there: CYCLING VIETNAM
Czech Republic
Prague cityscapeThe Vineyards of South Moravia
Is there a better way to experience the lush greenery of vineyards than from the back of a bicycle? With blue skies above, an open path in front, and perfect lines of fruit on either side, cycling from Prague to Budapest through some of the most vibrant and fertile areas of the Czech Republic grant cycling visitors an immersive experience that is unparalleled.
Oh, and did we mention the 13th century stone castle? The picturesque Mikulov Castle is home to a museum that includes a Renaissance wine barrel that is over 300 years old. At the end of a day of cycling and learning about winemaking, a glass of wine and a plate of fresh food from a local winery in Mikulov, a beautiful historic town on the border of Austria, caps off an idyllic and delicious adventure in the best way possible.
Getting you there: PRAGUE TO BUDAPEST RIDE
Portugal
Cycling along the Portuguese coast
The Silver Coast
Cycling from Nazaré to Óbidos with the ocean on your side and the sun on your face, discover the spectacular views, vibrant fishing villages, and picture-perfect medieval towns of the Portuguese coast.
Nazaré is a colourful place where living history, including fisherwomen in seven-coloured flannel skirts and wooden clogs, collides with modern surf culture. Home to gorgeous golden beaches and some of the biggest waves ever recorded, this seaside town is a not-to-be-missed destination.
Continuing along the coast, if the panoramic views don’t steal your breath, the fortified medieval town of Óbidos will! So carefully preserved that it resembles a film set, cycling through Portugal’s villages with narrow, winding streets, watched over by a fairytale-like castle and protected by walls that are nearly a thousand years old is simply spellbinding.
Take me there: PORTO TO LISBON ATLANTIC RIDE
When seeking an adventure unlike any other, two wheels is the way to go. From coasts to mountains, from vineyards to island paradises, our cycling tours let you explore and immerse yourself in landscapes and culture as diverse as they are enchanting.
Where will you pedal to next? Browse more of our exciting cycling tours below.
