15 of the world’s best islands for cycling

Island hopping adventures

For some, just cycling around an island isn’t enough. Why not go somewhere that you can get to know multiple islands on one trip?

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1. Shimanami Kaido, Japan

Best for: Island-hopping across Japan’s Seto Inland Sea

The Shimanami Kaido is Japan’s most famous cycling route, linking Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture with Imabari in Ehime Prefecture. The main route is around 76 kilometres long, crossing six islands and six bridges within the Seto Inland Sea.

This is cycling shaped by island life. The route takes you past citrus groves, fishing villages, harbours, temples, shrines and cafés, with regular views across the inland sea. It is well organised, with clear blue-line signposting, good cycling services and incredible cycling infrastructure over the bridges.

While the Shimanami Kaido can be ridden in a day, it is better enjoyed slowly. Taking more time lets you move beyond the main route, follow quieter coastal roads, use ferry links and reach viewpoints that many cyclists miss. This slower approach is what makes the area work so well as an island-based cycling holiday, rather than just a point-to-point ride.

More information

Rindo Bike Tour Japan’s Shimanami Kaido Setouchi Tour is an eight-day guided, fully supported cycling holiday through Japan’s Setouchi region, starting and ending in Onomichi.

The tour combines the famous Shimanami Kaido with quieter island routes such as the Tobishima Kaido. It includes a road or hybrid bike, helmet and accessories, accommodation, kaiseki-style meals, hot-spring onsen baths, luggage delivery, support vehicle, and expert local guides.

Head to Rindo Bike Tour Japan’s website for more details about the Shimanami Kaido Setouchi Tour.

You might also find our in-depth guide to cycling the Shimanami Kaido useful!

2. Croatia

Best for vibrant islands and turquoise seas.

Exploring the island of Vis in Croatia (photo credit: Islandhopping)

Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is perfect for a cycling and sailing adventure. With more than 1,000 islands, there are endless opportunities to explore quiet roads, hilltop villages, and historic harbour towns.

Each day brings a new island and a new experience. You might cycle past olive groves and vineyards, through lavender-scented hillsides or down medieval alleyways. Afterwards, cool off with a dip in crystal-clear water before relaxing on deck with a glass of local wine.

Croatia’s islands are perfect for those who love a mix of culture, coastal views and fun evenings ashore. Expect lively ports, traditional konobas, and UNESCO-listed sites such as Split’s Diocletian’s Palace and the old town of Korčula.

Croatia is hilly, so a good level of fitness is needed, but there’s always the possibility of an e-bike. Routes cover scenic coastal roads and climbs to panoramic viewpoints such as Vidova Gora, the Adriatic’s islands’ highest peak.

Island hopping in Croatia is an easy and immersive way to experience one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines.

More information

• Guide to Croatia bike and boat tours
• Looking to go island hopping in Croatia but would prefer to stay in hotels each night? Don’t miss this article.
• You might also find this in-depth guide to cycling in Croatia useful.

3. Aegean islands, Greece and Turkey

Best for a Greek Odyssey steeped in ancient history.

Cycling the beautiful Turkish coastline (photo credit: Islandhopping, photographer: Kleomenis Koufalioti)

Cycling the Aegean islands of Greece and Turkey is a unique way to explore two countries with deep cultural roots, dazzling coastlines, and a rich mix of history and tradition.

These islands are scattered across the Aegean Sea and offer a fascinating blend of whitewashed villages, ancient ruins, olive groves, and crystal-clear waters.

On the Greek side, islands such as Kos, Rhodes, and Samos are ideal for cycling, with coastal roads and inland climbs offering ever-changing views. Expect quiet back roads, family-run tavernas, and historic sites like the Asklepieion on Kos or the medieval Old Town of Rhodes. Each island has its own character, but all share that unmistakable Greek charm.

Across the water in Turkey, the Aegean coast is less well-known but equally rewarding. Turkey’s Datça Peninsula offers peaceful cycling routes, quiet bays, traditional fishing villages, and vibrant markets. The roads are generally quiet and the hospitality warm.

On a bike and boat tour, you can easily hop between islands by boat, swim in hidden bays after your ride, and enjoy delicious regional food each evening. For those looking to combine cycling with sailing, sunshine and sightseeing, the Aegean islands are a brilliant choice.

More information

• Guide to Turkey cycling tours
• Guide to Greece island hopping
• Cycling the Greek islands: an island hopping itinerary + tips
• Want to experience a taste of island life in Greece? Thassos island in Northern Greece is also worth considering. Take a look at this cycling the Balkans article to find out how you can ride it as part of a long distance journey through the Balkans.

4. Hebridean Way, Scotland

Best for A rewarding challenge across Scotland’s western isles.

Another stunning beach in the Outer Hebrides

The Hebridean Way is one of the UK’s most unforgettable cycling routes. It runs for around 300 kilometres across ten islands in the Outer Hebrides, linked by causeways and ferries. From Vatersay in the south to the Butt of Lewis in the north, it offers dramatic coastal scenery, remote landscapes and a real sense of adventure.

You pass white-sand beaches, rugged moorland, sea lochs and isolated crofting villages. Traffic is light, and the roads are generally quiet, though often exposed to the elements. Wind can be a major challenge, so most people ride from south to north, with the prevailing wind at their backs.

Facilities are limited in some areas, so careful planning is needed. That said, the islands offer a warm welcome, with independent cafés, friendly guesthouses and community-run shops dotting the route. Wildlife is another highlight – expect to see seals, seabirds and possibly even eagles or otters.

The route is well waymarked and best suited to cyclists with a sense of adventure. There are climbs, but they are mostly short and steady. Whether you camp, stay in hostels or choose more comfortable accommodation, the Hebridean Way is a unique ride through a landscape shaped by nature, weather and tradition.

More information

Guide to cycling the Hebridean Way

Well-known cycling islands

We start with some of the more obvious island cycling destinations.  All these islands attract thousands of cyclists each year and are well equipped for cyclists.

5. Mallorca, Spain

Best for the benchmark road cycling destination.

The start of the Sa Calobra climb (photo credit: SunVelo)

Looking to escape cold, windy rides in spring and autumn? Swap your thermal bib tights for shorts and head to Mallorca. With its smooth tarmac, mountain climbs, coastal flats, Mediterranean sunshine and plentiful cycling-friendly hotels and services, Mallorca has become the benchmark for cycling destinations.

Over the last twenty years, Mallorca’s reputation has soared. Pro teams train here, winter cycling camps are well-established, and events like the Mallorca 312 sportive draw riders from all over the world.

And it’s not hard to see why.

The roads are fantastic. The climbs are steady and scenic. The cafés are cyclist-friendly. The island works brilliantly whether you’re here to train hard or spin between tapas stops. Non-cyclists are well catered for too, with charming towns, sandy beaches and great food.

The dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountains offer unforgettable climbs like Sa Calobra and Cap de Formentor. But it’s not all hills. You’ll also find flatter terrain around Alcúdia, inland lanes near Sineu and gentle seafront paths near Palma.

Mallorca is well set up for cyclists with top-quality bike rentals, supportive infrastructure and easy logistics. If you haven’t been yet, what are you waiting for?

More information

• Guide to cycling in Mallorca
• Where to stay in Mallorca
• The best cycling climbs in Mallorca
• The best Mallorca cycling holiday tours
• A guide to the Mallorca 312 event, as well as training plans for anyone taking on the Mallorca 312
• Useful tips for anyone cycling in Mallorca
• The best Mallorca cycling routes

6. Canary Islands, Spain

Best for winter cycling training.

Admiring the stunning views of Gran Canaria

The Canary Islands are one of Europe’s top winter cycling destinations. Located off the northwest coast of Africa, they offer year-round sunshine, smooth roads and stunning volcanic landscapes. Each island has its own character, but all are known for warm weather, reliable road surfaces and the chance to test your legs on some climbs.

Tenerife is the most famous island for cycling, thanks to the mighty Mount Teide. At 3,715 metres, it is Spain’s highest mountain and a magnet for pro riders in the off-season.

Gran Canaria offers equally impressive riding, with punchy climbs and rugged inland scenery. Lanzarote is shaped by the wind and volcanoes, with rolling roads and striking black-and-red terrain. Fuerteventura is drier and flatter, great for steady endurance miles, but note that it’s also very popular with kite surfers (who like strong, steady winds)!

Whichever island you choose, expect beautiful roads, low rainfall and a strong cycling culture. There are bike-friendly hotels, good hire options and plenty of cafés for a mid-ride stop. Just be prepared for long climbs, changeable weather at altitude, and some headwind – especially in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

More information

• Guide to cycling the Canary Islands
• Guide to cycling Tenerife
• Where to stay in Tenerife for cyclists
• Guide to cycling Gran Canaria
• Where to stay in Gran Canaria for cyclists
• Guide to cycling Lanzarote
• Best bike hotels in Lanzarote

7. Isle of Wight, United Kingdom

Best for a hidden gem for cyclists in the UK.

Isle of Wight at dusk (photo credit Andy Allen)

The Isle of Wight is a fantastic destination for a cycling break. Just a short ferry ride from the south coast of England, the island offers scenic roads, sea views, rolling hills and a relaxed pace of life.

It’s small enough to explore in a few days, but the island is also varied enough to keep things interesting.

One of the most popular cycling routes for roadies is the 100-kilometre Isle of Wight Round the Island loop. It follows quiet country lanes and coastal roads, passing through traditional villages, farmland, and clifftop viewpoints. There are some short, steep climbs and fast descents, but nothing too extreme for regular cyclists. The full loop can be tackled in a day or split across two for a more relaxed ride.

Leisure riders and families will also enjoy the network of bike paths and disused railways on the Isle of Wight.

Highlights include the dramatic white cliffs at the Needles, sandy beaches near Sandown and Shanklin, and the tranquil countryside inland. The west side of the island is more remote and rugged, while the east is busier and more developed.

Top tip! You will find plenty of bike-friendly cafés and pubs, especially during the summer months. The island also hosts the annual Isle of Wight Randonnée, a popular free cycling event each May.

More information

• Guide to cycling on the Isle of Wight
• Best Isle of Wight bike hotels
• Tips for the best Isle of Wight cycling

8. Ireland

Best for wild beauty on the edge of Europe.

The Sheeffry Pass, County Mayo (photo credit: Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours)

If you want remote roads, epic views and a strong dose of adventure, Ireland’s west coast is a fantastic place to ride.

The Wild Atlantic Way offers one of Europe’s most dramatic cycling experiences. It spans the length of Western Ireland’s coastline over 2,600 kilometres from the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal to Kinsale, County Cork.

Given the distance and popularity of the Wild Atlantic Way with vehicles other than bicycles, for those with less time, cyclists can take on the alternative, shorter Mizen to Malin (MizMal) route. This follows inland and coastal roads through counties such as County Clare, Galway and Donegal. You will find quiet lanes, friendly locals and some of the wildest scenery in the British Isles.

Expect rolling hills, changeable weather and jaw-dropping views. Highlights include the Ring of Kerry, Connemara’s open boglands and the remote climbs around Glengesh Pass.

This is no tropical island ride – but if you are after coastal roads, wide open spaces and a sense of journey, cycling in Ireland is hard to beat.

More information

Guide to cycling the Wild Atlantic Way + MizMal

9. Texel, the Netherlands

Best for dune-backed beaches and gentle routes on great cycle paths.

Exploring Texel island’s cycle paths (photo credit: @hannah.F0ster)

If you are looking for a laid-back cycling destination in the Netherlands, Texel is a great choice.

The largest of the Wadden Islands, Texel is home to over 140 kilometres of cycle paths and quiet rural roads. The terrain is flat and easy to ride. But be aware! The wind can be a real challenge in exposed regions in the Netherlands – especially in coastal areas like Texel. It pays to check the forecast and plan your route in advance to avoid challenging, exposed stretches into a headwind.

Despite this, Texel is a joy to explore by bike. You can ride through the peaceful countryside, past long sandy beaches, grassy dunes, and rural fields with local livestock. The views are expansive, and this peaceful island feels a world away from the busy mainland.

Must-sees include the pretty town of Den Burg, the Slufter Valley nature reserve, and the lighthouse at the island’s northern tip.

Top tip! Ferries run regularly from Den Helder on the mainland and take around 20 minutes. Cycling is a popular pursuit on the island with many Dutch riders heading here for day trips. Bike hire is also widely available.

More information

Guide to cycling in the Netherlands

Lesser-known cycling islands

For those looking for an island cycling escape that’s a bit more adventurous and off radar, check out these options.

10. Sardinia, Italy

Best for an idyllic Mediterranean island for all cyclists.

Exploring the stunning Sardinian coastal roads (photo credit: Lighttrapper Photography via Saddle Skedaddle)

Sardinia is a dream for cyclists seeking adventure, beauty and space to roam. The island offers something for everyone, from quiet coastal roads and rolling inland hills to gravel tracks and scenic cycle paths ideal for leisure rides.

Road cyclists will love cycling the scenic coastal road from Algerho to Bosa. Gravel riders can explore Sardinia’s vast interior on ancient shepherd trails and forest tracks. These routes take you through remote valleys, oak woods and across wild highlands with sweeping views. For leisure cyclists, there are gentler routes too – think quiet country lanes, olive groves and sea views with plenty of stops for a swim or a Sardinian picnic.

Spring and autumn are ideal, with warm sunshine and peaceful roads. Summer can be too hot for long rides, while winter is quiet but some places may close.

If you are looking for somewhere off the beaten track, and unlike anywhere else in Italy, consider cycling the island paradise of Sardinia.

More information

• Guide to cycling Sardinia
• Like the sound of Sardinia? We think you might also like the neighbouring Mediterranean island of Corsica, home to the GT20 cycling route.

11. The Azores, Portugal

Best for a natural green paradise often referred to as ‘Europe’s Hawaii’.

Azores, Portugal. Beautiful view of volcanic lake from the mountains on San Miguel Island in the morning

The Azores are a volcanic archipelago in the North Atlantic, around 1,400 kilometres west of mainland Portugal. Their dramatic landscapes, quiet roads and ever-changing weather make them a truly unique destination for a cycling adventure.

Expect emerald-green crater lakes, towering cliffs, and steaming geothermal springs. This is wild, raw nature at its best. São Miguel is the largest island and the most accessible, with a range of cycling routes for different levels. Climbs here can be steep and long, but the views are incredible – from ex-volcanic calderas and cloud forests to black-sand beaches and lush pastures.

Traffic tends to be light, and the road surfaces are generally good, though they can be patchy in more remote areas. Leisure focused cyclists can enjoy shorter rides through farmland and coastal villages, while experienced riders will enjoy the mountain routes and switchbacks.

The weather is a big factor. Be prepared for humidity and note that conditions change fast, so pack layers and be prepared for sudden rain showers. But that also means misty mornings often give way to bright, clear afternoons.

If you are looking for somewhere quiet, unspoilt and full of natural wonders, the Azores offer something very special. They offer cycling far from the crowds, in one of Europe’s most extraordinary settings.

More information

Guide to the best regions to cycle in Portugal

12. Borneo, Malaysia

Best for lush rainforests and extraordinary wildlife.

Rolling hills of the Padawan area, near Kuching (photo credit Paradesa Borneo)

Sarawak, on the island of Borneo, is one of Malaysia’s most exciting and least-explored cycling destinations. It’s a region full of lush rainforests, traditional longhouses, and a mix of cultures that includes Malay, Chinese, and Indigenous communities. The landscapes are wild and beautiful, ranging from misty mountains to winding rivers and thick jungle.

Cycling here is about more than just the ride. A trip to Borneo is an adventure into nature, culture, and history. Routes take you along quiet rural roads, past palm oil plantations and rice paddies, and into villages where locals greet you with a smile. Kuching, Sarawak’s capital, makes a great starting point with its riverfront promenade, burgeoning food scene, colonial buildings and relaxed atmosphere.

For those seeking a challenge, there are steep climbs in the interior. But there are also flatter rides around the coast and in the lowlands, ideal for leisure cyclists and anyone keen to explore at a slower pace. Gravel riders will enjoy the unpaved tracks and forest trails that link more remote areas.

Wildlife is another draw. Don’t be surprised if you spot proboscis monkeys or hornbills overhead. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, Sarawak offers a cycling experience unlike anywhere else. It is a true off-the-beaten-track adventure.

More information

• Guide to cycling Sarawak, Borneo
• Tips and itinerary from our Borneo bike tour

13. Sri Lanka

Best for a tropical island boasting varied scenery combined with historical treasures and tasty cuisine.

Palm-fringed beach in Sri Lanka (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)

Sri Lanka may be small, but it packs in an incredible range of landscapes and experiences for cyclists. Known as the “pearl of the Indian Ocean,” this tropical island combines ancient history, lush tea plantations, and golden coastlines, all within easy riding distance of each other.

On two wheels, you might start the tour pedalling past rice paddies, climb into the cooler air of Nuwara Eliya’s tea country, and finish with a coastal ride beside turquoise seas. The mix of terrain ranges from relaxed flat stretches to rewarding mountain vistas, ensuring variety every day.

Culture and community play a big role, too. UNESCO-listed highlights include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the fortress of Sigiriya, and the colonial streets of Galle. Along the way, roadside markets and village encounters bring authentic tastes and warm hospitality.

Riders can also fuel up on some of the world’s best food, whether that’s fresh fruit, rice and curry, or a cup of world-famous Ceylon tea.

More information

Take a look at our in-depth guide to cycling in Sri Lanka with Intrepid.

14. Vancouver Island, Canada

Best for wild and peaceful landscapes in North America.

Views from the ferry journey from Prince Rupert to Vancouver Island (photo credit: Isobel Duxfield)

Vancouver Island offers a fantastic mix of coastal views, forest trails and quiet roads that make it a brilliant destination for cycling. Just a short ferry ride from Vancouver, the island feels wild and remote, yet it is easy to reach.

Cycling on Vancouver Island, you’ll explore tall cedar forests, driftwood-covered beaches and misty mountain backdrops. There are routes for all types of cyclists, from relaxed seaside rides around Victoria to more adventurous point-to-point journeys across the island. The roads are generally quiet and well-maintained, especially away from the main highways.

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a popular choice. It is around 260 kilometres and links up coastal towns, rainforest, and the Cowichan Valley wine region. There are also converted railway lines, such as the Cowichan Valley Trail, which offer car-free riding through spectacular scenery.

Accommodation is plentiful, with welcoming towns and scenic campgrounds along the way. Be prepared for severe and changeable weather, especially in spring and autumn – layers are essential.

Whether you want a weekend escape or a longer adventure, Vancouver Island offers varied riding, striking landscapes and the kind of space and freedom that makes Canada so appealing.

More information

• Article on cycling from Vancouver to Prince Rupert + Vancouver Island

15. Cuba

Best for a vibrant cultural deep-dive, dramatic landscapes, and rides far from the usual cycling trail.

Viñales in full view (photo credit: Intrepid Travel)

Cuba is a captivating cycling destination that blends adventure with rich cultural immersion. Away from Havana’s bustle, the roads are often quiet, with traffic limited to fellow cyclists, walkers and even horse-drawn carts. This slower pace creates a wonderfully relaxed rhythm, perfect for riders who enjoy peaceful rural landscapes.

The variety of scenery is striking. In the west, the Viñales Valley is dotted with dramatic limestone mogotes and lush tobacco fields, while coastal routes lead to white-sand beaches such as Cayo Jutías and Varadero. Further south, the Bay of Pigs combines historic intrigue with calm, scenic rides along the Caribbean shore. Each ride reveals another side of the island, from palm-fringed valleys to colourful colonial towns.

Cuba’s cultural vibrancy makes cycling here more than just pedalling. UNESCO-listed cities like Havana, Trinidad and Cienfuegos brim with classic cars, live music, salsa dancing and buzzing street life. Staying in casas particulares (family homestays) allows for authentic encounters with Cuban hospitality.

More information

Take a look at our in-depth guide to Cuba cycling tours with Intrepid.

What’s next?

We hope this list of islands that are perfect for cycling holidays has got you feeling inspired!

What would be on your list of favourite islands for cycling? Let us know in the comments below.

In the meantime, for more island cycling destinations, check out:

• • Guide to cycling Ireland’s Greenways
  • Guide to cycling the UK
  • Guide to cycling the Seychelles
  • Guide to cycling Barbados
  • Guide to cycling the Ile de Re, France
  • Guide to cycling Singapore

Looking for more inspiration? Don’t miss our pick of the best destinations for cycling safaris.

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.