Long distance cycling routes may look somewhat overwhelming to many riders. They’re multi-day adventures and take a lot of time and planning to complete.

But they are a fantastic way of discovering your potential on the bike and exploring some of the best places to cycle. They allow you to broaden your horizons and enjoy new experiences on and off the bike.

We’ve pulled together a selection of the world’s best cycling routes that are long distance and largely road cycling suitable (with a couple of exceptions).

We hope this helps you make an informed decision (or get inspired!) for your next long distance bike ride.

For our pick of the best cycling routes in Europe, read this and for our pick of the best cycling routes in the UK, read this

Looking for tips for long distance cycling and info on how to train for a long distance cycling trip?

This article includes details of products and/or services that we have used ourselves or which we would consider using. Some are paid features or include affiliate links where if you click on a link and make a booking or buy something, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our disclosure policy for further information.

In the interests of complete transparency, we haven’t (yet!) cycled all of the routes/events in this article. If you have ridden any of these, let us know in the comments below!

All metrics in this article are approximate.

UK and Ireland

Land’s End to John O’Groats (LEJOG)

  • Distance: 1,913 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Land’s End/John o’Groats, UK
  • Surface: Road

Land’s End to John o’Groats, or, LEJOG, is one of the best cycling routes in the UK, and for good reason! The route runs from southern England to the northernmost tip of Scotland, and completing it is a significant challenge for most riders.

There are many different road cycling routes available that take in some of the best long-distance cycling the country has to offer. You’ll find coastal vistas, hidden valleys and some of the finest places to cycle in the United Kingdom.

It’s a popular route and cyclists can choose between a self-supported trip or support from tour operators who will help with luggage, accommodation and other services too. The duration of the tours depends on your speed and selected package, but usually take between seven days to three weeks to complete.

It’s a challenging long-distance cycling route, but an excellent way to see the best of Britain by bicycle. It’s the kind of route any self-respecting British cyclist has either done or is hoping to do. It’s also one of the most well-known long distance bike rides in the world.

More info

Read our Q&A on cycling Land’s End to John O’Groats with Pedal Britain.

 

GPX based custom map printExample map of your LEJOG ride

 

If you want something to remind you of your LEJOG, check out these maps.

  • Upload a GPX file or connect to Strava
  • Use the map builder to create the print – you can alter the size, colour and text
  • Check a preview before it’s printed and sent to you.
  • More info here. Prices start at £35.

Mizen to Malin (MizMal)

  • Distance: 1,050 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Mizen Head to Malin Head, Ireland 
  • Surface: Road

Ireland’s answer to LEJOG, MIZMAL takes the first three letters from the town at the start of this route (Mizen) and the first three letters from the town at the end of the route (Malin).

This enchanting route along the west Irish coast and takes in much of the Wild Atlantic Way.

It can be seen as among the best cycling routes in the world, thanks to its gorgeous Gaelic surroundings. Rugged coastlines, brooding Atlantic waves and blissfully quiet roads are prominent throughout this 1,050-kilometre ride. Cyclists also often comment on the warm welcomes received in the traditional villages they cycle through.

First mapped by an Irish rider a few years ago, it’s now one of the most prominent cycle routes in Ireland. Beginning in the southwestern town of Mizen, the route follows the Atlantic coastline to the north of Ireland, ending in Malin. It can be ridden unsupported, or with the aid of a tour company who will provide the luggage transfer and accommodation.

It’s certainly one of the most scenic cycling routes on our world’s best cycle routes list, but just make sure you pack a raincoat. Even in summer, the Emerald Isle’s weather can be somewhat unpredictable, so being prepared is your best protection against the elements, especially on long distance cycles where you need to stay warm to keep those motivation levels up!

More info

Read our Q&A on cycling MizMal with Wild Atlantic Cycling Tours.

Published 19 June 2018

256 pages

View on Amazon

North Coast 500 (NC500)

  • Distance: 813 kilometres (or 516 miles)
  • Start/finish: Inverness, Scotland
  • Surface: Road

One of the best cycling routes in Scotland, and arguably among the best bike rides in the world, the NC500, or North Coast 500 is the British equivalent to America’s Route 66. In this sense, it’s not just popular with cyclists, but with drivers too. The route is very rural, so it isn’t usually heaving with vehicles – but it has got more popular recently, so do take care at busy times of year.

The route begins and ends in Inverness, taking in a circular route. Initially, it heads west towards the coast, then follows it to John o’Groats before circling back to Inverness. Be prepared for some testing climbs on the route, with just under 10,000 metres of elevation gain across it.

Most people tackle the NC500 over a week, although the record for fastest completion is 27 hours 36 minutes (moving time). But, as it’s one of the best cycling routes in Britain, we’d recommend taking your time to absorb the gorgeous Scottish landscape and help your legs recover from all the climbing. Long distance bike trips are good for testing yourself, but you want to enjoy them too!

More info

Our popular article on cycling the NC500 and NC500 cycle accommodation will be useful if you’re considering this route.

Published 10 October 2018

128 pages

View on Amazon

Want a custom map to commemorate your ride once you’ve completed it?

Check out these beautiful GPX-based prints.

Europe

Iron Curtain Trail (inc the Baltic Sea Cycle Route)

While many of the best cycling destinations in the world are in Europe, most consideration is given to the more famous bike rides of Italy, France and Spain. Don’t overlook this Baltic bike challenge though – it’s one of the tougher multi day bike rides but it offers excellent rewards.

Please see our article on the best cycling routes in Europe for our write up of this route.

Published 6 October 2016

352 pages

View on Amazon

Route des Grandes Alpes

This is, without a doubt, one of the best long-distance cycle routes in the world. It’s also one of the most famous cycling routes, which puts it near the top of many a bucket list.

Please see our article on the best cycling routes in Europe for our full write up of this route or read our in-depth guide to the Route des Grandes Alpes for more information.

Published 24 April 2017

View on Amazon

Trans Pyrenees

Any examination of the best long-distance cycle routes has to include the Pyrenees. Please see our article on the best cycling routes in Europe for our write up of this route!

Print of Trans PyreneesExample map of your Trans Pyrenees ride

If you want something to remind you of your Trans Pyrenees, check out these maps.

  • Upload a GPX file or connect to Strava
  • Use the map builder to create the print – you can alter the size, colour and text
  • Check a preview before it’s printed and sent to you.
  • More info here. Prices start at £35.

Americas

Ride Across America

  • Distance: From approx 4,800 kilometres depending on route
  • Start/finish: Depends on route
  • Surface: Road

It’s easy to forget quite how vast the USA is until you look at the mileage required to cross it. The three main ways to ride across America are the Northern and Southern tier routes and the Transamerica trail. They’re all in the mix for the best cycling trips in the world.

  • The Southern route is 4,865 kilometres in length and travels from California to Florida (or vice versa).
  • The Northern route is slightly longer at 6,873 kilometres and takes in a stunning route from Washington to Maine, and even crosses into Canada.
  • The Transamerica trail begins in Oregon and travels east to Maine through the middle of the country. It takes in a total of 6,777 kilometres.

None of these are for the faint-hearted, but if you have a competitive itch to scratch, there’s also the Race Against America.

Known as one of the hardest long distance cycle races in the world, the Race Against America has been testing riders to their limits since 1982. It travels from west to east across the USA and takes in over 53,000 metres of climbing. Solo competitors are expected to complete it within 12 days, making it even more prestigious if you cross the finish line in time.

If solo riding sounds too tough you can attack it as a team of two, four or eight as a relay. It traverses breathtaking mountain ranges, and iconic American landmarks like Gettysburg, making it undoubtedly one of the best road cycling routes in the world. Amateurs and professionals alike can enter, and the race prides itself on being one of the toughest, but best cycle routes in the world.

If you’re planning a cycle around the world route, this will tick off a lot of your distance in one event!

More info

Read our interview on cycling across America here. Our guides to cycling the USA might also be useful.

These books may also assist your research:

Published 24 June 2014

288 pages

View on Amazon

Published 3 March 2011

320 pages

View on Amazon

Published 1 May 2017

108 pages

View on Amazon

Pacific Coast Highway

  • Distance: 2,900 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Vancouver, Canada to San Diego, USA
  • Surface: Road

If spectacular views and coastal vistas are your thing, then consider riding the Pacific Coast Highway (“PCH”).

It’s often described as one of the best long distance cycle routes in the USA and tackles 2,900 kilometres of serene rolling landscape and challenging hills along the western coast of North America.

Be aware that the Pacific Coast Highway also takes in just under 32,500 metres of elevation! Much of it is towards Oregon and along the California coast.

The route is divided into five sections so you can drop in and do as much or as little as you like of these road biking routes. You’ll find cyclist-friendly accommodation, and the route takes in some of the best cycling destinations on the western coast of America – it’s certainly one for the bucket list!

More info

Published 27 September 2017

256 pages

View on Amazon

Going to the Sun Road

  • Distance: Roughly 80 kilometres
  • Start/finish: West Glacier and Logans Pass, both in Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
  • Surface: Road

Biking the Going to the Sun Road is one of America’s finest travelling experiences. The road is located within the Glacier National Park in Montana, and you can tackle it from west to east or vice versa, with the former being the most popular way.

It’s a road that takes in one of the best bike rides in the USA, with gorgeous mountainous scenery to look at. It’s the only road in the USA that is both a National Civil Engineering and National Historic Landmark.

The Going to the Sun Road features plenty of climbing as it takes you over the Continental Divide. The highest point of the road is Logans Point, where you top out in wild-flower filled meadows.

It’s advised you visit during the summer months as the road may not be clear of snow and ice at other times of the year. Given the stunning vistas and nature you’ll find on this ride, it’s got a solid place on our list of the best bike routes in the world.

Trans Mexico

  • Distance: 3,500 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Mazatlán/Frontera Corozal 
  • Surface: Road and dirt/off-road

Trans Mexico combines two good cycle routes to create one of the best long distance bike rides across southern America, from northern Mexico to the south. It takes in both dirt and road riding, so make sure your bike is equipped to ride both. Consider taking a gravel or mountain bike for comfort.

The route takes in some of the best sights of Mexico, with no particular attention paid to being the fastest or most direct route across the country. Expect to discover colonial cities and the rural dusty roads that connect the country.

Mexico features a broad spectrum of landscapes, making it a brilliant trip for any cyclist who loves to discover new cultures and territories. Not one for the amateur cyclists, but if you want to enjoy less well-known bike touring routes then Mexico’s a great choice.

More info

If you’re feeling intrigued about cycling in Mexico, don’t miss our guide to cycling Mexico and the Puerto Vallarta area.

 

Trans Mexico mapExample Trans Mexico ride

 

 

If you want something to remind you of your Trans Mexico, check out these maps.

  • Upload a GPX file or connect to Strava
  • Use the map builder to create the print – you can alter the size, colour and text
  • Check a preview before it’s printed and sent to you.
  • More info here. Prices start at £35.

Rest of the world

Tour d’Afrique

  • Distance: 11,010 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Cairo, Egypt and Cape Town, South Africa
  • Surface: Mixed – road and dirt/gravel

The Tour d’Afrique promises one of the most unique riding experiences on the planet. You ride from Cairo in North Africa, to Cape Town in South Africa, discovering some of the most exciting landmarks in the world such as the Pyramids and Victoria Falls.

It’s a route that was imagined from Cecil Rhodes’s idea of connecting the two ends of Africa by rail. It has become one of the best biking routes on the planet. It’s by no means an easy feat. Not only are you traversing an entire continent, there are many logistical and cultural considerations to be made. For example, not many citizens of the countries the route passes through speak English, so even simple things take longer.

Although not specifically a long distance road cycling route, the uniqueness of this Tour d’Afrique made it hard to leave off the list. The best bicycle routes challenge you and broaden your horizons both on and off the bike, and we think this does just that. Plus if you’re planning a ‘cycling around the world route’, this ticks off Africa nicely.

Highway One, Vietnam

  • Distance: 2,300 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Surface: Road

Highway One, a road in Vietnam, is known as a symbol of national unity. It stretches from the north to the south of the country’s east coast.

It was damaged in the Vietnam War but is now pretty well-maintained. Cycling Highway One is a good way to see some of the best of what Vietnam has to offer by bicycle.

The route begins in Hanoi (though, of course, you can also ride it in the other direction). The route takes in some of the most wonderful scenic backdrops, with lush green mountains and panoramic sea views. For the views alone, we think it’s one of the best road cycling routes in the world.

Watch out for the famous Hai Van Pass – and its infamous 30% gradients!

Cycling is a way of life in Vietnam, so unlike other countries where it may be difficult to find mechanics, they are quite literally everywhere. They’re helpful and willing, although if you have a modern high-end bicycle, they might not be equipped to assist you, so make sure you bring enough tools to get you by on your journey. A good rule of thumb for all long distance cycling trips, really.

Friendship Highway

  • Distance: 806 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Lhasa, Tibet to Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge between Zhangmu and Kodari at the China/Nepal border
  • Surface: Road

The Friendship Highway is also known as the China-Nepal Highway. It connects Tibet and Nepal and passes through some of the biggest mountain ranges in the world. If visiting Kathmandu has always been on your bucket list, but perhaps climbing it is a stretch too far, why not cycle to it using this now-paved highway?

Autumn is the ideal time to complete this route, as it’s not usually too wet and isn’t the coldest part of the year, so you shouldn’t encounter road closures.

Be aware that there are a few rules around cycling in Tibet, including being part of a tour or organised group as a condition of your travel permit.

The Friendship Highway is among the best road bike routes in the world due to the landscape and beauty surrounding it. It’s one of the highest roads in the world, so be prepared for a little shortness of breath – and not just from the scenery!

Shimanami Kaido

  • Distance: 70 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Imabari and Onomichi, Japan
  • Surface: Road

Not all of the best places to cycle in the world need multiple days to experience them. The Shimanami Kaido is a 70-kilometre long route that takes you over precision-engineered bridges and suspended cycle lanes, over the Seto Sea. You cross multiple islands set against a gorgeous backdrop of coastal and mountainous vistas.

Some of the route has a segregated cycle path so you’re separated from traffic, and it’s easy to navigate – simply follow the blue lines! The fact there is a lot of bike path and the terrain is pretty flat means this is often regarded as among the best family cycling routes in the world.

It’s also easy to rent a bicycle if you don’t bring your own. There are 13 bike hire shops along the route, and they’re reasonably cheap to hire for the full day (or two). This is a tranquil ride that makes it one of the best cycling routes in Japan.

Castles and historic museums feature in the towns on this route, with it ending in Onomichi, part of Hiroshima Prefecture, famous for its devastation in World War II. Discover the Japanese bike-friendly culture and enjoy the local cuisines on this peaceful long distance route.

More info

Our article on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route gives you more detail.

 

Map of Shimanami Kaido cycling route JapanExample Shimanami Kaido ride

 

 

If you want something to remind you of your LEJOG, check out these maps.

  • Upload a GPX file or connect to Strava
  • Use the map builder to create the print – you can alter the size, colour and text
  • Check a preview before it’s printed and sent to you.
  • More info here. Prices start at £35.

Great Ocean Road

  • Distance: 243 kilometres
  • Start/finish: Torquay/Warrnambool
  • Surface: Road

Cycling the Great Ocean Road is a great way to explore the stunning beaches and some of the best scenery in southern Australia.

Though it’s well known as a driving road, we think experiencing the Great Ocean Road on two wheels is a much better way to do it.

You can ride it entirely on road, or, if you enjoy the variety there are off-road trails that coincide with certain parts of it, for example in the Great Otway National Park.

As one of the most popular cycling routes accessible from Melbourne, it presents an opportunity to tie in other activities such as visiting the koalas in Kennett River.

As it’s coastal there are some ups and downs to be expected on this route, in particular between Apollo Bay and Port Campbell. It does, however, offer some of the most spectacular views of the ancient rainforests and shoreline.

The beauty of the Great Ocean Road is the versatility and the ability for you to design the trip around your requirements. Thus, making it among the best cycling routes in Melbourne, and dare we say it, one of the world’s best cycling routes.

More info

Don’t miss our guide to cycling in/around Melbourne and the state of Victoria.

Which long distance cycle routes have you tackled?

We’d love to hear your experiences – share them in the comments below!

Likewise, let us know which routes we’ve missed from our list. Inevitably, there are always some, and we love to hear your thoughts! A lot of people plan a round the world cycle route, and there are many great options you might’ve discovered when doing so.

Looking for more inspiration? Here’s a cheeky shout-out for Taiwan’s Route 1; it’s not in the list above, but it’s definitely worth a look.

Also, take a look at our article on the best cycling destinations in Europe and the world. Or head to our destinations page where you’ll find guides to cycling destinations around the world.

Want to check travel advice before you go? If you live in the UK, the best place to start is the government’s travel website.

Want a personalised map to commemorate your long distance ride?

These cycling map prints are just the ticket.

  • You upload a GPX file or connect to Strava and find your ride (you can add multiple day rides to one map).
  • You use the map builder to create the print as you want it (you can alter the size, colour and text).
  • You submit all the details and are then sent a preview to check before it’s printed and sent to you.

More info here. Prices start at £35.

Books that will help continue your research

For more inspiration on the world’s greatest cycling rides, check out some of our favourite books (you can find even more in this article!):

Published 1 September 2016

328 pages

View on Amazon

Published 27 August 2020

320 pages

View on Amazon

Published 9 August 2019

320 pages

View on Amazon

Published 1 April 2021

256 pages

View on Amazon

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Clare Dewey

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.

Last Reviewed: 01 December 2023

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4 Responses to “16 of the world’s best (long distance) cycling routes”

  1. You missed the ‘Garden Route’. Some 800km from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town. It’s on my ‘to do’ list. Do it in March and add the Cape Town Cycle Tour on the end too – I’ve ridden that and it’s stunningly good.

    • Hi Kevin, love this idea, thanks so much for taking the time to share it. Would love to know more about the Cape Town Cycle Tour – when did you do it? What was it like?

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