Biking is considered by many as a healthy hobby. It is a whole-body workout and a gives a whole lot of health benefits too. Some people bike because they have spare time while some rides a bike to lose weight. But although people have different reasons why they bike, the most common reason is probably the fact that biking enables you to see a lot of beautiful places. Indeed, biking is one of the best ways to see the world. There a number beautiful bike trails around the world and here are some of them.
Great Divide Mountain Route, USA – Canada
The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) is the perfect route for those who are looking for an intense path. It is America’s premier cycling route which is 2,768.4 miles long. Stretching from New Mexico, USA to Alberta, Canada, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is officially the longest biking trail in the world. The biking route does not require highly technical mountain bike riding skills. It only requires basic off-pavement riding skills to complete because about 90% of the Great Divide Mountain Route is on unpaved roads and trails.
The GDMBR is often defined as remote. Its remoteness equates with spectacular terrain and scenery. The biking trail will make bikers ride through ghost towns, past deserted mines, through the Colorado Rockies, down dirt roads and unused railway beds, and through mountain passes. Highlights in this biking trail include the Flathead Valley in British Columbia; Grand Teton National Park and the Great Divide Basin in Wyoming; South Park and Boreas Pass in Colorado; and Polvadera Mesa and the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico. Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is definitely one of the best biking trails in the world.
The Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is 277km route stretching from Torquay to Allansford of Southeastern Australia. It is known for its fabulous views and dramatic coastline. The Great Ocean Road is a winding road of wetland views, all ending with the spectacular Bells Beach. It is suitable for moderate to advanced bikers. For those looking for something a bit more extreme, there are mountain biking trails hidden off of the main road. The road can also take you to famous beaches for a stopover for a swim or to check out the surf.
Dordogne Valley, France
In addition to the list of the best biking trails in the world is Dordogne Valley. The Dordogne is an ideal region for visitors to France with miles of scenic rolling countryside, fascinating ancient bastide towns, and delicious gourmet delights. The best way to explore the Dordogne is by bike. Dordogne takes its name from the 300-mile river that runs through it. This valley is largely rural with beautiful stone buildings, reminiscent of bygone years, and a slower pace of life. Dordogne Valley is blessed with lovely bike routes for cyclists of all abilities. Biking trails in Dorgogne are suitable for novices or experienced cyclists.
Bikers will be mainly riding on country roads and specific cycleways. The biking routes are mostly unpaved, although they will have a compacted gravel or stone surface, making it bit of a bumpy ride on occasions. Although the trails are quiet country lanes and forest tracks with very little traffic, some routes in the Dordogne offer greater distance and more challenging hill climbing. Cycling in the Dordogne is pleasant from April to October.
Salzach Valley, Austria
Salzach Valley is an Austrian bike trail, complete with beautiful meadows and mountains as a backdrop. Ride the family-friendly 150-mile Salzach Valley trail and cycle through the Grossglockner Mountain, the Hohe Tauern National Park, and Europe’s highest waterfall. The route starts at Gerlos Pass and ends in Salzburg. Along the route you will pass between pine forests, quaint villages and meadows bursting with brightly colored flowers. The breathtaking scenery makes Salzach Valley one of the best biking trails in the world.
The Shimanami Kaido, Japan
Shimanami Kaido also known as Nishiseto Expressway s an expressway in Japan that connects Onomichi, Hiroshima, and Imabari, Ehime, going through nine of the Geiyo Islands, including Ōshima, Umashima, and Innoshima. The expressway contains ten bridges and is famed for its scenic views. The road and bridge route was designed with an integrated cycle lane which is approximately 70 km in length including bridge access ramps. Since its opening, it has become one of Japan’s most popular long-distance cycle routes. Bikers can stop for a photo halfway across a bridge or detour to investigate lighthouses, shrines and natural wonders most automobile travelers zip past.
