At Wanderlust, we’re all about slow, sustainable travel, whether that be by rail, by foot, or by bike. And if it’s the latter you’re interested in, you’re going to want to read on, because the top ten scenic cycling routes have just been revealed.
The list, compiled by Time Out, is a mix of well-known destinations (The Netherlands makes an appearance on the ranking – quelle surprise) and newly launched routes.
Coming in hot in first place is France’s Loire à Velo, a 900km route taking in the Loire Valley between Nevers and Saint-Brevin-les-Pins. Part of the EuroVelo 6, which goes from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Black Sea in Romania, this section is known for its vineyards as well as its castles, which are UNESCO World Heritage listed.
Certainly not the road less cycled, but you’ll find that on the Trans Dinarica trail, a new opening in the Balkans that claimed second place. First launched in 2024, the route starts in Slovenia and passes through Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Serbia, covering 5,500km.
For those who don’t want to tackle the full length, there are several itineraries, from the 370km Croatia circle up to the 1,092km four-country circuit through Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo and Serbia.
Third place went to the Route of Caravans in Morocco, which runs between Imilchil and Tangiers, taking in mountains, desert scenery and vibrant cities along the 837km path. Be warned, though – the majority of this route is on unpaved roads.
For those who don’t want to spend multiple days on the road, fourth place went to Shimanami Kaido in Japan, a well-established route that connects Honshu to Shikoku passing over six islands on elevated bridges. Only 70km, it can be completed in one or two days, and offers spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Rounding out the top five is Ireland’s MizMal, running between Mizen Head to Malin Head. Running along the country’s west coast, you’ll pass through the cliffs of Moher, Galway and Donegal on the 845km route.
The rest of the top ten went to Carretera Austral in Chile, Kinderjijk Windmill Route in The Netherlands, The Friendship Highway between Tibet and Nepal, the Munda Biddi Trail in Australia and the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route between Canada and the USA.
More information: timeout.com
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