As we all know tourism is one of the sectors worst hit by the fallout from the global Covid-19 crisis. It will also be slow to recover to what existed before March 2020, if indeed it does - or should. However the cycle tourism niche is well positioned to be one of the first to recover, and indeed thrive, in this “new normal”.  
   
Travel restrictions are likely to be with us for quite some time. However cycle tours have already resumed in 2020 – particularly focussed on travellers in the same country or, in some parts of the world, near neighbours. This isn’t an easy process for many operators but the cycling sector is far more flexible and resilient than others. 2021 is already looking like it will be a full and busy season for most cycle tour operators!  

## Cycling for transport and exercise will lead to increased cycle tourism

We only have to look at media or news feeds over the last few months to know that cycling has boomed, and using bikes on holiday is a natural progression.

- Sales of bicycles and accessories has taken off so much that shortages are commonplace and bike shops have become some of the busiest retail outlets around.
- New infrastructure, both temporary and permanent, has quickly been added and is well used, and in turn attracts even more people out on bikes.
- Existing established routes such as greenways and rail trails, particularly close to population centres, are experiencing greater patronage than they ever have before.
- More people using bikes to get around and exercise will lead to many including cycling as part of their holidays – or becoming their holiday.

## Cycle tourism is well adapted for the new normal – without too much change

- Social distancing and small groups are already commonplace in cycling.
- Avoiding crowds and busy places makes bike tours more enjoyable and interesting.
- Mobility: cycle tours and routes help the dispersal of economic benefits and avoid overreliance on large concentrations of tourists.

## Acceleration of already growing 21st century travel and tourism trends

- Health: cycling is an activity and exercise for which all age or socio-economic groups can benefit. Society at large benefits with fewer health problems, hospital admissions etc.
- Environmental: cyclists have a much lower environmental and carbon footprint than most tourists.
- Sustainability: cycle tourism is less concentrated on any particular resource, with lower overall demand on resources, infrastructure and investment.
- Affordability: all you need is a bike and it doesn’t need to be an expensive model. 

## Why cycle tourism should be more actively promoted

- See health, environmental and sustainability benefits above!
- Accessibility to all: many people who use a bike to explore, discover or just enjoy somewhere, may not even think of themselves as cyclists. They don’t need to be on a popular cycle route or organised bike tour.
- Economic benefits are widely spread – particularly in regional or less populated areas. Local business can quite easily become more cycle friendly with small changes such as bike storage or parking, laundry facilities and plenty of drinking water (and coffee!) available. Studies have consistently shown that cyclists spend more per head than other tourists.
- Locations and regions can rejuvenate or grow with far less investment and infrastructure than other forms of tourism – greenway, rail trail and mountain bike projects around the world have consistently shown this. More often than not the challenge in these projects is far more attitudinal than economic.
- Lengthening the tourism season: cycling is often best in off-peak times such as spring and autumn  - or even winter in many places.

## Why go an organised bike tour?

Cycle tourism is just getting on a bike to go somewhere for pleasure. Many people do this independently and adventure touring or bike-packing is very popular for long or short trips. These cyclists are still part of the cycle tourism community - as are people who use or hire a bike while on their beach or city vacation. But on an organised bike tour you benefit from:

- The planning being done for you – accommodation, route, sights, food stops, timing etc. Or not - if you want to do some of this yourself e.g. a [self-guided tour](/explore/self-guided-bike-tours).
- Expert and local insights – particularly on a [guided tour](/explore/guided-bike-tours).
- Time constraints – you can get the best return from your limited holiday or vacation time.
- The best parts of a region are cherry-picked for you.
   
So not only will cycle tourism recover quite quickly but there is the very real potential for increased growth into the future.

As we all know tourism is one of the sectors worst hit by the fallout from the global Covid-19 crisis. It will also be slow to recover to what existed before March 2020, if indeed it does - or should. However the cycle tourism niche is well positioned to be one of the first to recover, and indeed thrive, in this “new normal”.   

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How will cycle tourism rebound from the pandemic?

As a destination Victoria’s North East is a cycling paradise, as The Cycle Tourist discovered much to his delight during a recent three-week visit to the region.

Such are the attractions for cyclists in this part of Victoria that an ever increasing number of road, mountain bike and recreational cyclists are beating a well worn path to the area to experience cycling’s equivalent of utopia.

With breathtaking scenery, alpine descents and climbs, clean air, quiet and often traffic free roads, the freedom of cross-country trails, the rush of off-road downhill courses and a multitude of paved rail trails, there is something on offer for every cyclist.

Throw in family friendly tourist attractions, a local community that welcomes cyclists of all persuasions with open arms, a wide variety of accommodation options and it is hard to think of a reason not to load your bicycle on the car and head off.

With his mountain bike in tow on this particular trip, The Cycle Tourist’s objectives were to cycle the entire length of the Murray to Mountain Rail Trail (achieved), experience a number of the area’s mountain bike trails (achieved), cycle to the top of Mt Buffalo (achieved) and to visit winter snow resort Falls Creek to cycle a number of the resort’s off-road trails (achieved).

While not the focus of this particular trip, from the number of groups of road cyclists seen it was obvious the area is extremely popular as a training destination given the diverse landscape, the quality of the roads and the fact that there is little or no traffic (in the summer months).

For anyone keen to avoid all road traffic, Victoria’s North East offers some of the best rail trail rides anywhere in Australia. All of the trails are well signposted, are fully paved and provide water stops and shaded rest areas.

But best of all they are suitable for all standards of cyclists from serious riders out for a tough training ride through to families eager to spend some bike friendly time together.
Full details of the various rail trail rides are available at bike shops, cafes and visitor information centres in the region – or just start riding, you basically can’t go wrong given the extensive signage doted along all the trails.

Victoria’s High Country Cycle Guide – a must-read publication available at most tourist outlets throughout the region – lists the top 10 rail trail rides. All, from The Cycle Tourist’s experience are well worth conquering.
1. Mansfield to Bonnie Doon and back (Great Victorian Rail Trail) – Head out to Bonnie Doon along the Goulburn River High Country Rail Trail, with the highlight Lake Eildon.
2. Bright to Gapsted (Murray to Mountains Rail Trail) – Take in the spectacular valley views as you cruise past wineries and old tobacco farms on this iconic section of the rail trail.
3. Beechworth to Myrtleford (Murray to Mountains Rail Trail) - A lovely ride through a mixture of native bush and fertile farm land. Finishes of at Myrtleford where there is plenty to see and do.
4. Wodonga to Tallangatta and back (High Country Rail Trail) – A ride for all the family, hugging the shoreline of Lake Hume - offers great views and a sense of open space.
5. Beechworth to Milawa (Murray to Mountains Rail Trail) – Starting in Beechworth this mainly downhill ride cruises past numerous wineries and farms selling local produce.
6. Rutherglen to Wahgunyah (Murray to Mountain Rail Trail) – Try some of Victoria’s best fortified wines as you ride through rich farmland before reaching the spectacular Murray River.
7. Bonegilla to Old Tallangatta (High Country Rail Trail) – This trail tracks along the spectacular Lake Hume.
8. Wangaratta to Milawa (Murray to Mountains Rail Trail) – This trail offers flat riding through open country from the regional hub of Wangaratta to Milawa
9. Beechworth to Everton Station (Murray to Mountains Rail Trail) - An easy roll down the hill starting at the tourist town of Beechworth – a great ride for the kids.
10. Yea to Yarck (Great Victorian Rail Trail) – Ride through the amazing Cheviot Tunnel on this stretch of the rail trail.  

If rail trails are not your thing, for mountain bikers the choice of trails on offer is almost bewildering, with the North East offering some seriously awesome off-road destinations.

While it would take years to ride all the trails on offer, ‘Victoria’s High Country Cycle Guide’ lists the top 10 “must do” trails that local riders consider to be the “best”.
1. Copperhead (Mount Buller) – Australia’s first flow style downhill trail suitable for all types of bikes and riders.
2. Flame Trees (Beechworth) – An easy graded trail that cuts off either side of the rail trail at various points and forms a loop. A delight to ride – as ‘The Cycle Tourist’ can attest – the ride is suitable for all grades of cyclists from novices to experienced riders.
3. Stonefly (Mount Buller) – Said by many to be Australia’s best mountain bike trail, Stonefly is 10km of thrills for advanced endurance enthusiasts that goes from Mount Buller to Mount Sterling. The highlight is a sensational descent that will leave you exhilarated.
4. Delatite (Mount Buller) – The Delatite River Trail is a sensational ride that takes you on a thrilling and scenic tour down to Mirimbah at the base of the mountain. Along the way you cross the river a number of times.
5. Cudgewa to Corryong (High Country Rail Trail extension) – A ride that takes you back in time through Victoria’s pioneering history.
6. Warby Ranges (Wangaratta) – Great single tracks dot the Warby Ranges which are just north of Glenrowan.
7. Historic Huts Run (Falls Creek) – Experience the history of the region with a cross country tour of some of the oldest alpine huts in the High Country. The 15km return intermediate loop is suitable for most riders.
8. Mount McKay Loop (Falls Creek) – A great ride for fit bikers that takes you to the highest drivable point in Australia with views as far as Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop.
9. Mount Beauty Mountain Bike Park (Mount Beauty) – A variety of free cross country trails and an exciting downhill course for advanced riders ... there is something for everyone.
10. Roger Packham Trail (Bright) – A thrill-packed single track for intermediate and advanced riders – 2km of fantastic fun and excitement.  
 
The bottom line is that there is an amazing selection of rides available in Victoria’s North East, so start planning your next biking holiday – you won’t be disappointed.


As a destination Victoria’s North East is a cycling paradise, as The Cycle Tourist discovered much to his delight during a recent three-week visit to the region.

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Victoria’s North East – a cycling Paradise

For a relatively short self-guided bike tour of five days (four of cycling) this adventure from [Biking France](/tour/biking-france) (RandoVelo in French) certainly promised a lot. The tour is titled [Between vineyards and pine forest - Bordeaux to Arcachon](/tour/biking-france/bordeaux-to-arcachon) and actually covers four of the key elements of France’s largest region Aquitaine, now rolled into the even larger Nouvelle Aquitaine région – city, beach, forest and vineyards. All this in quite a compact area to the west of Bordeaux, in the Gironde department.  
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### Day 1 City

The first night was at a lovely and very central hotel in Bordeaux. There is no cycling scheduled and the bikes weren’t delivered until the next morning. However you can check in anytime from 3pm and use the excellent and cheap VCub bike share scheme to explore the city – there is a docking station close by. Bordeaux is very cycle friendly and a bicycle is a fantastic way to get around.

### Day 2 Vineyards

The day starts with an easy ride out of the city to the north - well sign-posted with only a couple of minor turns until we reached Blanquefort. On the way is Bordeaux Lake, the home of many sporting activities, both on and off water, as well as the Exhibition and Convention Centres and the casino.
 
Further north (some bike paths, some quiet roads) the surroundings became more rural with an increasing number of vineyards. There were some small towns and villages including Le Pian Médoc where nearly everything was closed but we were lucky enough to find a nice brasserie for lunch a little further on in Arsac – and had the menu du jour (a set menu with 3-4 choices and 1-3 courses – a standard throughout France). A key thing to know about France outside the cities is that restaurants usually close at 2pm so you need to allow plenty of time.
 
We rode on to Margaux (despite a few misturns - more due to being directionally challenged rather than to the maps and cue sheets provided which were very thorough). A relatively short day meant we were in Margaux by early afternoon so decided to ride further north into the Médoc. However we gave up by the next town, Soussans, and turned back as there was only one road with quite a bit of traffic, often-fast moving, and no shoulder whatsoever. It’s understandable why the next stage of the tour goes a different direction! The Médoc wine region may be very popular, but is sadly lacking in cycling infrastructure.
 
Fortunately Margaux itself offers a great insight into the region, and the Haut-Médoc in particular. It has a high concentration of magnificent chateaux such as Chateau Margaux, Chateau Labégorce, Chateau Marquis de Terme and Chateau Palmer - and we had to check out nearby Chateau Rauzan-Segla as that was the name of our hotel room! There was also a Maison du Vin (House of Wine) at the edge of town which is a tourist office for wine lovers.
 
A return visit will be needed for proper visits and tastings as this tour is only enough to offer a glimpse into the region.

48km (though sticking exactly to the itinerary would have been 34km).	  	

### Day 3 Forest

We again left our luggage at reception to be picked up – so great not to have to carry it all on the bike (as I’d done for the last few weeks!). It was a nice ride out of Margaux to Aversan, albeit on the main road with some faster moving traffic – though motorists are much more accepting of sharing the road with cyclists than in some countries.
 
South-west from Aversan, we leave the vineyards behind and enter farming and forestry areas, on successively smaller roads with less and less traffic before meeting the Bordeaux-Lacanau bike path at Salaunes. Now there were no cars, just bikes on mostly rail trails or greenways with long straight sections (all sealed) through wooded areas. Very few villages and these were off the path, until Lacanau-ville where there were a few well-signposted turns to Lacanau-Océan. The latter is a nice seaside resort, not over developed, with plenty of reasonably priced bars and restaurants. It had a nice beach although there are probably better ones further up and down the coast - albeit not so convenient.
 
A lovely pool at another great the hotel allowed us to chill out and rest/nap at after the ride. We had a 10 minute ride into town for dinner - all on bike paths - although there was also a restaurant at the hotel. The hotel’s secure storage for bikes was also welcome.

65km [cum. 113km] -  itinerary 58km

### Day 4 Beach

Another good breakfast and a very easy exit from Lacanau-Océan onto the bike path heading south. The route is through forest all day with numerous access points to the beach. We did take one and went for a much-needed refreshing Atlantic swim on a hot day. Be prepared though as the dunes are very large and there will be quite a walk from the path to the beach.
 
The dunes are protected by the magnificent forests that were originally planted in the 19th century on then existing swampland. This reforestation was for done for commercial purposes but also protects the Médoc wine region from wild Atlantic winds.
 
The path winds its way down to Cap Ferret and, though beautiful, seems interminable as the cape or peninsula is quite long. One of the most popular spots in town is the historic lighthouse. The ferry to Arcachon was very popular (and full) so leave plenty of time to queue and board! The highlight of the 30 minute crossing is the views of the huge sand dune. Our hotel in Arcachon was close to the ferry terminal, though was rather disappointing given the high standard of accommodation so far on the tour. The town is rather touristy and away from the waterfront didn’t seem to have a lot going for it.

62km [cum. 175km] - itinerary 45km	

### Day 5 Dune

A 24km loop ride was scheduled for today - the last of the tour. Leaving Arcachon out the south east side was a bit confusing as there is no cycle route as such - and we didn’t follow the map or cue sheet closely enough! Once past La Teste it was pretty straightforward if not particularly interesting – although the wetlands may be worth a small detour.
 
However that all changed when we reached the Dune du Pilat though as we didn’t really know what to expect, we almost headed straight back to Arcachon and the train. Fortunately we did turn into the Dune to check it out anyway as there seemed to be a lot of people going in and the day had cleared up nicely after a grey start. We had dismissed the sighting from the ferry yesterday at ‘that’ dune didn’t look particularly accessible.
 
Wow – we were wrong. There was quite a big visitor area with lots of parking and the usual souvenir and ice cream shops. Lots of bike parking too - great to see several groups of kids on bikes. The Dune itself is very close by – turn the corner and you are faced with a mountain of sand. They have installed a concrete stairway which many used but it was so much more fun to take your shoes off and tackle the massive dune à pied – though I imagine the sand would get pretty hot later in the day. With enough time, you can actually walk along the top for a few kilometres. The views are amazing with the sun sparkling over the water down below.
 
We didn’t stay too long as we had to get back to catch the 12.30 train back to Bordeaux (the two later ones were cancelled due to strike action - and trains were only hourly). 
 
An easy ride led into the prettier western side of town - obviously the way most people go to see the Dune as it’s much shorter and there are bike paths nearly all the way.

30km [cum. 205km] -  itinerary 24km

<br>
All in all the tour definitely delivered on its promises and exceeded my expectations. To fit such a variety of settings into just a few days was certainly a fantastic experience that I have no hesitation in recommending.  

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*The author travelled at his own expense*



This relatively short self-guided RandoVelo bike tour covers four of the key elements of France’s largest region, Aquitaine – city and beach, as well as forest and vineyards. All this in quite a compact area to the west of Bordeaux, in the Gironde department.

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Aquitaine in a nutshell - a bike tour in the Gironde

### The bike tours most viewed -  July to September 2021  

See below for for the top 20 or check out all bike tours in  [North America](/explore/north-america-bike-tours) - all 1300+ of them (use the filters to narrow down your search).  

| No. | Tour Name | Location | Tour Operator  |
| - | --- | --- | ---  |
|	1	|	Tip to Tip Prince Edward Island		|	Canada	|	PEI Cycling Tours	|
|	2	|	Jasper to Banff		|	Canada	|	Mountain Madness Tours	|
|	3	|	The Great Divide		|	USA	|	Bike Dreams	|
|	4	|	Viking Trail		|	Canada	|	Freewheeling Adventures	|
|	5	|	Dempster Highway Tour		|	Canada	|	Cycle Canada	|
|	6	|	California Coast Classic		|	USA	|	Sentio Cycling	|
|	7	|	North American Epic		|	North America	|	TDA Global Cycling	|
|	8	|	Blueberry Bicycle Route		|	Canada	|	Great Canadian Trails	|
|	9	|	Gaspé Peninsula		|	Canada	|	Freewheeling Adventures	|
|	10	|	SoCal Riviera		|	USA	|	San Diego Fly Rides	|
|	11	|	Calistoga Sip 'n Cycle		|	USA	|	Getaway Adventures	|
|	12	|	Central Florida Lakes		|	USA	|	International Bicycle Tours	|
|	13	|	Sonoma Bike 'N Brew Tour		|	USA	|	Ace It Bike Tours	|
|	14	|	Santa Barbara to Paso Robles		|	USA	|	Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours	|
|	15	|	Laurentians Montreal to Ottawa		|	Canada	|	Freewheeling Adventures	|
|	16	|	Hawaii 3 Islands Tour		|	Canada	|	Adventure Cycling Association	|
|	17	|	Tour Vert		|	Canada	|	Cycle Canada	|
|	18	|	Healdsburg Sip 'n Cycle		|	USA	|	Getaway Adventures	|
|	19	|	Gettysburg & the Civil War Bike Tour		|	USA	|	Wilderness Voyageurs	|
|	20	|	Tour Arctic		|	Canada	|	Cycle Canada	|

The bike tours most viewed - January to March 2022
- Tip to Tip Prince Edward Island
- Jasper to Banff
- The Great Divide
- Viking Trail
- Dempster Highway Tour ...

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Victoria’s North East – a cycling Paradise

Aquitaine in a nutshell - a bike tour in the Gironde

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