Some people prefer to unwind during their summer vacations, while others like to stay active. However, there exists a group that seeks invigorating and adrenaline-pumping holidays that test their endurance and deliver the ultimate thrills.
If you’re among those thrill-seekers, continue reading.
The itineraries below are curated to challenge your skills while taking you up, down, and across Europe. The rewards include stunning views, exceptional training, and the endless pleasure of exploring the road less traveled.
So gear up for some continental-scale adventures.
1. Trans Dinarica Trail
Western Balkans
3106 miles (5000km); challenging
The multi-use Trans Dinarica Trail connects various countries in the Western Balkans, enabling visitors to explore Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Kosovo by bicycle. This trail is designed to encourage a deeper connection with the unique landscapes and cultures of this region.
Beginning in Slovenia’s Soča Valley, renowned for its water sports, the route traverses the foothills of the Julian Alps and dips into Croatia’s Risnjak National Park. Riders then shadow the Adriatic coast, journeying into Bosnia & Herzegovina, where they will experience the charming cities of Mostar and Sarajevo, before continuing through Montenegro and Albania. Highlights include cycling beside picturesque Lake Ohrid and visiting historic towns such as Pizren in Kosovo, eventually finishing in Serbia with stunning views along the Drina River.
2. Ronde van Nederland
The Netherlands
860 miles (1384km); easy
The Netherlands offers a network of long-distance cycling routes known as LF routes, making it easy to explore this bike-friendly nation. Most routes utilize traffic-free bike paths, ensuring a pleasant experience for cyclists of all levels.
A notable route, the Ronde van Nederland, spans approximately 860 miles, featuring diverse landscapes, including dunes, dikes, and charming villages. Completing this circuit rewards cyclists with a special certificate, celebrating their journey through this picturesque country.
3. Iron Curtain Trail
Germany
Distance varies; moderate
The EuroVelo EV13 route, known as the Iron Curtain Trail, spans from the Barents Sea to the Black Sea. This trail passes through Norway, the Baltic nations, Poland, Germany, Czechia, Romania, Bulgaria, and beyond.
The German section of this trail is particularly well-signposted and ready to ride, offering cyclists a unique exploration of history along quiet bike paths. For those looking for an alternative experience, the Iron Curtain Gravel Trail features 426 miles of scenic routes that branch off to explore even more secluded areas.
4. Tour du Mont Blanc
France, Switzerland, and Italy
105 miles (169km); challenging
This iconic ride around Western Europe’s highest peak is a must-try for mountain bikers. However, it’s vital to note that climate change is affecting the glaciers in the High Alps, altering trail accessibility. His ride offers an extraordinary challenge and breathtaking views as it takes riders through three countries.
Cyclists typically start from Chamonix, crossing rivers, scaling several high passes, and indulging in delicious local pastries along the way. With only enough gear for a few nights spent in refuges, this journey promises adventure and camaraderie.
5. Torino-Nice Rally
Italy and France
435 miles (700km); challenging
Beginning as a group ride, the Torino-Nice Rally explores lesser-known regions of the Alps. This route can be tackled between late June and early September, when the snowy passes are navigable. The experience involves a mix of gravel tracks and occasionally paved roads, making it suitable for mountain and gravel bikes.
Most riders take eight or more days to savor the stunning views and local cuisine, with various accommodation options available, from mountain refugios to camping under the stars.
6. Great North Trail
UK
825 miles (1328km); challenging
The Great North Trail extends from England’s Peak District National Park to the northern tip of Scotland, crossing stunning landscapes and cities. It can be a daunting experience for novice cyclists as it covers significant terrain across varied landscapes.
However, riders can choose to break the journey into manageable sections. The trail offers striking views of nature’s beauty, from stone walls and green fields to wild moors and mountainous landscapes, providing a complete British cycling adventure.
This article was first published Apr 11, 2023, and updated Sep 9, 2024.
