The Wanderlust guide to cycling and mountain bike travel
Healthy, green and slow enough to soak up the local atmosphere. Isn’t it time you got in the saddle?
Cycling is quite simply one the best ways to travel. Bike touring is green, it’s healthy, it’s slow enough to take in the country you’re passing through, yet fast enough to cover plenty of ground – whether you have a week or a year to spare.
Cycling is also open to all. Novices may not want to tackle a trail through the Nepalese Himalayas, but there are plenty of paths perfect for pedalling first-timers. From a gentle roll through the lavender fields of Provence, France, to the redwood-dotted route along coastal California, USA, to the miles of fine trails waymarked through England, Scotland and Wales, there is something for every beginner cyclist.
However long you cycle for, wherever in the world you chose to cycle, you’ll find touring by bike is an eye-opening experience. The freedom to stop where you choose and talk to local people as you explore, the fact that you’re not in a flashy sealed vehicle – these will open up interactions and situations that, in a car or plane, just wouldn’t be possible.
Looking for inspiration?
Cycling is arguably the most versatile way to travel in the world. You may work up more of a sweat getting to some destinations, but there is no shortage of places your two wheels can take you. You’re spoiled for choice.
With that in mind, Hayley Lawrence has put together a list of 10 great cycling destinations. Admittedly, Kazakhstan doesn’t spring immediately to mind, but according to Hayley, it’s awesome.
For something a little more sedate, Matt Carroll has listed England’s best cycling routes, while the Wanderlust Team recommend the 4 best cycling routes in New Zealand, one of the most popular places in the world to go two-wheeling.
It’s even less strenuous if you explore the Lake District by electric bike. Phoebe Smith tells you how.
More information
10 great cycling destinations – Hayley Lawrence
England’s best cycling routes – Matt Carroll
4 of the best cycling routes in New Zealand – Wanderlust Team
Exploring the Lake District by electric bike – Phoebe Smith
