20Cycling Routes That Offer Breathtaking Views

The Icefields Parkway, one of Canada’s most scenic drives, is equally spectacular for cyclists. This route takes riders through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, passing glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering peaks. The route offers unparalleled views of glaciers and the pristine wilderness, with abundant wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep often spotted along the way.

The Black Forest in Germany offers cyclists a chance to explore lush forests, charming villages, and idyllic lakes. The region’s network of cycling trails takes riders through picturesque landscapes, with options ranging from leisurely rides to more challenging routes that climb steep mountain passes. The area is also known for its fairy-tale villages and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards, and charming medieval towns make it a paradise for cyclists. The route takes riders through scenic landscapes filled with olive groves, vineyards, and sunflower fields. Stops in historic towns like Florence, Pisa, and Siena offer a chance to experience the region’s art, architecture, and food, making this ride a complete sensory experience.

Big Sur along California’s Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most iconic cycling routes in the United States. With dramatic cliffs dropping into the ocean, the coastline here is truly mesmerizing. Cyclists can pedal past rugged coastal landscapes, towering redwoods, and picturesque beaches, with views of the Pacific Ocean stretching as far as the eye can see.

The Loire Valley, with its vineyards, châteaux, and charming villages, offers one of the most picturesque cycling routes in France. Riders can pedal through this UNESCO World Heritage region, passing by iconic landmarks like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau. The gently rolling hills and lush landscapes make for a leisurely but visually stunning ride.

Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, offers a unique cycling experience with dramatic views of its craters, lava flows, and the surrounding Sicilian countryside. Cyclists can challenge themselves with a climb up the slopes of the volcano, where the views of the Mediterranean Sea, distant towns, and rugged terrain are truly awe-inspiring.

Lake Tahoe, situated on the border between California and Nevada, offers cyclists a breathtaking ride around one of the most beautiful lakes in North America. The route takes cyclists around the lake’s shoreline, with stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains. Along the way, cyclists can stop at various beaches and scenic viewpoints.

Corsica, the rugged Mediterranean island, offers some of Europe’s most beautiful cycling routes. The Cap Corse loop, in particular, is a stunning route that winds through rocky hillsides, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal villages. Cyclists can enjoy sweeping views of the sea, with the jagged peaks of the island providing a striking contrast to the sparkling waters.

The Camino de Santiago is one of the most famous pilgrimage routes in the world, but it’s also a fantastic cycling path. The route stretches from France across northern Spain, offering cyclists stunning views of vineyards, rolling hills, and historic villages. Along the way, cyclists can soak in the culture and history of the region while enjoying breathtaking vistas.

Iceland's Golden Circle is famous for its natural wonders, and cycling this route offers an up-close experience of the country’s stunning landscapes. Riders will pass geysers, hot springs, volcanic craters, and waterfalls, including the powerful Gullfoss. The stark beauty of Iceland’s rugged terrain, combined with the incredible sights, makes this an unforgettable cycling route.

Cape Town’s Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most scenic cycling routes in the world. This coastal road hugs the cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean, offering cyclists stunning views of the ocean, rugged cliffs, and the distant Table Mountain. The winding roads can be challenging, but the spectacular views make every pedal stroke worth it.

For mountain bikers who enjoy challenging trails, the King’s Canyon Rim Walk in the Northern Territory offers a thrilling and visually spectacular ride. The path takes cyclists along the rim of the canyon, providing jaw-dropping views of red rock cliffs, gorges, and the surrounding desert landscape. The area's stark beauty is mesmerizing, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors shift dramatically.

Cycling around Loch Ness offers some of the most serene and hauntingly beautiful views in Scotland. This route takes cyclists along the loch’s shoreline, offering incredible views of the water, surrounding forests, and the ancient Urquhart Castle. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the mythical Loch Ness Monster—although that’s not guaranteed!

Munnar, in Kerala, India, is known for its lush tea plantations and mist-covered mountains. Cycling through this hill station offers cyclists a chance to ride through winding roads with panoramic views of the verdant landscape. Along the way, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls, spice plantations, and diverse wildlife, all framed by the spectacular Western Ghats.

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Banff Legacy Trail is a picturesque cycling route that connects the towns of Banff and Canmore in Alberta. The route takes cyclists through forests, along pristine lakes, and past towering mountain peaks. The views of Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain are especially stunning, offering photo opportunities at every turn.

The Dolomites in northern Italy are a UNESCO World Heritage site, and cycling through these jagged peaks is an unforgettable experience. The region offers a range of routes, from challenging mountain climbs to more leisurely valley rides, with incredible views of dramatic rock formations, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. This area is a must-ride for anyone who enjoys stunning mountain landscapes.

The Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is famous for its coastal beauty, with dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and rock formations like the Twelve Apostles. Cyclists can enjoy the rolling terrain while gazing out over the South Pacific Ocean. This route also offers the chance to spot wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos, adding an extra layer of charm to the ride.

This iconic French route takes cyclists on an epic journey through the French Alps, offering a variety of mountain passes, each with its own unique beauty. The route stretches from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, passing through some of the most famous climbs of the Tour de France. Expect panoramic views of jagged peaks, verdant valleys, and alpine lakes.

The Columbia River Gorge, located between Oregon and Washington, offers one of the most scenic cycling routes in the Pacific Northwest. Riders can pedal along the Historic Columbia River Highway, which provides breathtaking views of the Columbia River, waterfalls (including the famous Multnomah Falls), and lush forests. The route offers various levels of difficulty, making it accessible for cyclists of all abilities.

Known for its dramatic switchbacks and steep climbs, Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps is a legendary cycling route for road cyclists. At 2,757 meters (9,045 feet) above sea level, it is the second-highest paved mountain pass in the Alps, offering cyclists spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, rugged valleys, and alpine meadows. The challenging ascent is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and pristine landscapes.