Top bike tours for June 2026

Copilot AI
The bike tours most viewed in June 2026


Puglia - the Heart of the Mediterranean
9.5/10 2 review(s)
Tour Operator: FunActive Tours
Italy
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
315 km (~53km per day)
Leisure
Mostly flat, Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
€ 798
Overview
Tour Operator FunActive Tours
Discover the southeast end of Italy.
On this bicycle-tour you will not only experience the unique countryside between the Adriatic and the Ionic Sea, but also the friendliness and hospitality of the southern Italians.
The countryside is rich in culture. The Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Habsburger and the Bourbons have all left their marks in the region.
Highlights
- Alberobello
- Ostuni
- Gallipoli
- Otranto
Easy touring, apart from a few slight ascents and descents along the route, most of this tour is along flat, tarred roads. As you are travelling out of the main season, most of the roads are mainly free of traffic. The tour is suitable for children over 14 years.
The Picos de Europa
Tour Operator: IberoCycle
Spain
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
347 km (~58km per day)
Leisure
On-road
Self-Guided
Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
€ 1070
Overview
Tour Operator IberoCycle
Lush green valleys, jagged limestone peaks, spectacular gorges and incomparable scenery!
A trip through some of the most spectacular and beautiful scenery to be found anywhere in Europe. Lush green valleys contrast with jagged limestone peaks and blue skies. The Picos de Europa rise to almost 9000 feet), providing gorgeous alpine scenery just a short distance from the sea. The area is so wild that it is still home to a great variety of flora and fauna, including wolves and brown bear. Our route follows the perimeter of the three massifs of the Picos and accesses the very heart of these unique mountains.
Highlights:
- ancient Asturian capital of Cangas de Onís
- starkly beautiful limestone scenery
- famous walk of La Ruta del Cares
Pub Ride
Tour Operator: TDA Global Cycling
Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands & United Kingdom
37 days (Bike: 26 days)
2580 km (~99km per day)
Avid
On-road
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
Please Ask
Overview
Tour Operator TDA Global Cycling
Each day, discover a new land and a new brew, all while enjoying some of the best cycle paths in the world
Over 5 weeks we’ll cycle from storied Dublin to the waterfront of Copenhagen. Through Ireland, Scotland, England, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany and Denmark. To the great cities of Belfast, Edinburgh, York, London, Bruges, Amsterdam and Hamburg. Each day’s journey through lush green countryside, villages and historic cities giving us an opportunity to discover a new land, a new brew, a new spirit!
We’ll have a unique hotel each night and we’ll share our meals together in local eateries. For it is in the pubs where the community meets, where stories are told and retold and where local life unfolds.
After a night of sampling a couple pints of the 'real' Guinness and perhaps a few shots of Bushmill's Irish Whiskey the riders will head out from the historic Temple Bar area of Dublin and head north through the green Irish countryside before catching a ferry to Scotland. After a day sipping some of Scotland's finest single malt whiskies in Edinburgh's legendary pubs the cyclists will spin south stopping each evening to sample some of the local brews. Another day off will allow the riders to explore some of England's most fascinating medieval architecture - the walled city of York. The last stretch takes the cyclists through the fabled university city of Cambridge before cycling into London past Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and Tower Bridge. This cosmopolitan city marks the mid-point of this amazing adventure.
Leaving the British capital after a couple of days of exploring the city's numerous pubs, the riders will head south to the White Cliffs of Dover. There they will board a ferry to cross the English Channel to the European continent and Bruges, a picturesque town whose medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage sight. Here riders will enjoy a rest day, giving the participants a chance to sample some of the world's finest beers, perfected over the years by Trappist monks, initially to aid in their fasting. A few days later the tour spins into the home of Heineken, Amsterdam and its renown cafes, canals, bicycles and red light district.
The route now takes the cyclists across Northern Germany stopping for a rest day in Hamburg, the country's largest port. Here riders can revel in the city's maritime spirit and, over a litre mug of the local brew, remember how this city started the Beatles on their storied career. In another couple of days the cyclists will find themselves on a ferry heading for the shores of Denmark, the last country on this tour. Home to Tuborg and Carlsberg, two of the world's most well-known breweries, the friendly and welcoming city of Copenhagen marks a fitting end to the Pub Ride.

Marco Polo - Venice to Athens
Tour Operator: Ride and Seek Bicycle Adventures
Albania, Croatia, Greece, Slovenia & Montenegro
31 days (Bike: 24 days)
1937 km (~81km per day)
Avid
Hilly, On-road
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
€ 16450
Overview
Tour Operator Ride and Seek Bicycle Adventures
Marco Polo-inspired expedition: Slovenia to Athens, traversing Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Greece across two transformative stages.
We have re-envisaged our Marco Polo tour to provide a more immersive exploration of the Balkans and the chance to cycle more off the beaten track than on previous editions.
Since 2020, our Marco Polo tour began in Venice, embodying the legendary explorer’s spirit of discovery. For the 2026 edition, we’ve reimagined the journey, shifting the start to Lake Bled, Slovenia, and crafting a more adventurous route through Albania. While loosening historical constraints, we’ve maintained the tour’s essence: an immersive cycling experience that celebrates exploration and the unknown.
Our tour from Slovenia to Greece unfolds across two stages. Stage 1, graded at 2.5 espresso cups, begins in Lake Bled, traversing Slovenia before descending the Dalmatian coast to Dubrovnik, showcasing Slovenia’s cycling delights and Croatian island landscapes. Stage 2, rated 3.5 espresso cups, ventures through the less-explored territories of Montenegro and Albania, then crosses Greece to Athens, offering longer distances and a more challenging topographical journey.
What’s New for 2026
The route change has allowed us to explore two countries we think are amazing travel destinations – Slovenia & Albania. Below, we profile why we have changed the tour to embrace these two countries.
Slovenia
We cycle through stunning landscapes in Slovenia, starting at picturesque Lake Bled. We then wind through Ljubljana’s vibrant streets and descend towards Croatia’s border. We traverse terrain beloved by professional cyclists and offer world-class routes through alpine valleys, rolling countryside, and scenic mountain passages.
Albania
Albania has become a bonafide buzz destination, and the changes we have witnessed since we started cycling there have been huge. The Giro d’Italia, starting here last year, is a testament to that. Our route now takes us inland to explore UNESCO sites and immerse ourselves further in this beguiling destination.
Black Sea Epic Route
Tour Operator: Plateau Cycling
Bulgaria & Romania
13 days (Bike: 10 days)
700 km (~70km per day)
Ride either section or both
Active
Off-road
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
Please Ask
Overview
Tour Operator Plateau Cycling
Bike touring on dirt & gravel roads along the European Black Sea coast!
A cycling trip between Eurovelo 6, E 3 hiking trail and Eurovelo 13, all of which end on gorgeous Black Sea spots in Bulgaria & Romania!
The Black Sea Route aims to establish a continuous hiking and biking trail along the Black Sea coast from the Danube Delta to Istanbul. It follows the diverse seaside of lakes, cliffs, beaches and mountains on the territory of Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey.
- Join us and you will become a messenger of the Black Sea Path, supporting and assisting in a national hiking and cycling route along the panoramic coast of the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast.
- For 12 days we will travel along the coastal paths from the lakes of the Danube Delta to Rezovo, connecting the trans-European routes Eurovelo 6 from France along the Danube to Constanta, E 3 from Spain via Mount Kom to Emine and Eurovelo 13 - The Iron Curtain Road from Norway to Rezovo.
- The transition will be marked by fresh spring weather, the final chords of bird migration, the timid leafing of the forest and the cool sea breeze.
The Black Sea Route Epic will start in Visina, Tucea Region, Romania, pass through the cities of Varna and Burgas in Bulgaria and finish at Rezovo village on the Turkish-Bulgarian border, the final spot on the Iron Curtain Trail Eurovelo 13. The tour is dominated by coastal lands and beaches. We are riding on dirt, cobblestone or sandy roads, marked and unknown tourist trails with as few paved sections as possible through urban areas.

Silk Route
Tour Operator: TDA Global Cycling
China, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkiye & Uzbekistan
108 days (Bike: 76 days)
8205 km (~108km per day)
Ride any or all of 7 stages
Avid
Mixed on/off-road
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
US$ 33900
Overview
Tour Operator TDA Global Cycling
Join this self-powered caravan through ancient Asian empires along the world’s most famous trading route
Read the article with the exciting changes for 2027.
Our self-powered caravan begins in Beijing, China, the political and cultural centre of China and crosses mysterious lands, fiery deserts, and forbidding mountains. Almost 15 weeks later riders will arrive in Istanbul, the majestic capital of Byzantium, the Roman Empire, the Ottomans and now the Republic of Turkey. The route follows the Silk Road northwest before dropping back south in Central Asia. Included are visits to destinations definitely off the beaten track - the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan where riders will climb to over 4600 meters and cycle across the 'Roof of the World' and distant Mongolia, where riders will cycle along ancient trading routes through the vast steppes and meet the country's nomadic people, experiencing their age-old traditions.
Silk Route participants will ride to the mystical Central Asian cities of Samarkand and Bukhara and camp amongst the stunning meadows, rivers and peaks of Kyrgyzstan. There are points where quietness pervades and where the original travellers of the Silk Route seem to be just beyond the next hill, beckoning cyclists further along this arduous trek. Time and time again, riders will be amazed at the layers of history emerging from the sand, shake their heads at all that has been lost and take heart from all that is being preserved and created. Each group of Silk Route riders will be enriched by an intricate knowledge of ancient lands crossed and the inspiration that comes from sharing a grand adventure with new friends and fellow nomads.
Highlights
- Mongolian Steppes
- Pamir Highway
- Historic Silk Road cities
- Istanbul
Ride the Canadian Rockies
Tour Operator: Mountain Madness Cycle Tours
Canada
9 days (Bike: 6 days)
502 km (~84km per day)
Custom tour for CTG Travel Club
Active
Hilly, On-road
Guided
Supported
Now rescheduled. Join our exclusive custom CTG group tour in July 2027!
Prices from
Guided
C$ 3997
Overview
Tour Operator Mountain Madness Cycle Tours
The ultimate cycling tour in Western Canada
Cycling Jasper to Highwood Pass through two National Parks and a Provincial Park over six days is the ultimate cycling tour in Western Canada. An incredible setting in which to challenge yourself physically and mentally, yet find the ability to let go and immerse yourself in the rejuvenation of the Rockies.
The tour begins with a few leisurely rides and some sightseeing or activities in and around Jasper National Park and the relaxed mountain town of Jasper. On day 2 we’ll start our journey on the world famous Icefields Parkway. This relaxing introduction will warm you up nicely for the longer and more challenging days ahead. The next two days see us cross into Banff National Park and visit the iconic Lake Louise. A quiet back road will see us cruise into Banff on the undulating Bow Valley Parkway and the Legacy trail bike bath into Canmore. From here we’ll continue onto Kananaskis Country.
The last epic day on the bike will take us over the Highwood Pass (the highest paved road in Canada) to the cowboy town of Longview. We’ll have a celebratory beer and meal at the local pub before driving you back to Calgary that evening for your flight home the next day.
The mountain scenery is truly breathtaking and the slower pace offered by the bicycle means there is ample time to appreciate it. You’ll take in the views, snap lots of photos, have a few rest breaks - and we’ll still arrive at our nightly destinations with time to spare. Relax in the evenings with a hot bath or a beverage enjoyed in the blaze of a mountain sunset, or explore the nearby sights and views on foot. Staying in the unique and cozy hotels along the way will give you the extra comfort each night that you deserve. You’ve worked hard during the day, and we love giving you time to pamper yourself in the evening.
Total tour distance: 502 km / 312 Miles + (depending on whether you choose to take on any of our additional “bonus trips” for a little extra mileage!). A moderate level of fitness and a road / cross / touring / mountain bike (with slick tires) or one of our rental bikes are recommended to take part in this tour.
Please contact me using this form or Ben at Mountain Madness Tours ('Ask the operator' form on this page)

Baltic Sea Cycling Cruise
Tour Operator: Santana Adventures
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland & Sweden
10 days (Bike: 8 days)
280 mi (~35mi per day)
Leisure
Mostly flat
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
Please Ask
Overview
Tour Operator Santana Adventures
10-Days & 8-Countries Copenhagen to Stockholm
Every day has multiple cycling routes. Anyone who can ride 35 flat miles will be able to enjoy multiple days of easy. Longer routes are available, and typically allow 60 or more miles.
Scandinavia is a very bike-friendly environment where instead of bike lanes, many roads actually have a parallel bike path.
Santana has chartered Windstar’s all-suite Star Legend for our Baltic Sea Cycling Cruise!
Optional PreTour, we’ll explore Copenhagen by bike—the fastest and most flexible way to explore this cycling-friendly capital where a tour that features whimsical art and architecture can pause at legendary bakeries and refresh at Copenhagen’s landmark brewery.

The Japan Bike Tour
9.9/10 15 review(s)
Tour Operator: O Cycle Japan
Japan
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
320 km (~53km per day)
Leisure
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
C$ 4000
Overview
Tour Operator O Cycle Japan
An exciting 7-day tour that encompasses 6 days of invigorating cycling, all set to begin at the vibrant Kansai Airport and end in Osaka city.
Embark on an exciting 8-day/7 nights/6 days cycling Japan Cycling Adventure that encompasses 6 days of invigorating cycling and unique cultural experiences along the way. Experience the beauty of Japan as you pedal through picturesque landscapes, covering an average of 50km per day. Throughout the journey, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of 6 different cities.
Explore a variety of cycle-friendly accommodation in each city, ranging from traditional Japanese Ryokans and ancient temples to modern western-style hotels, carefully handpicked for their hospitality and uniqueness. These local gems offer complimentary breakfast and ensure secure bike storage during your stay. Many locations boast the indulgence of hotel hot springs (Onsens), where you can unwind, immersing yourself in an ancient tradition after a day of cycling. Embrace the perfect blend of comfort and cultural experiences throughout your cycling journey!
Danube cycle path 3 Country Tour
Tour Operator: Rad + Reisen Eurocycle
Austria, Hungary & Slovakia
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
289 km (~48km per day)
Leisure
Cycle paths and trails, Some hills
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
€ 799
Overview
Tour Operator Rad + Reisen Eurocycle
Vienna - Bratislava - Budapest
On this classic cycle tour you will experience the combination of nature along the scenic riverbanks of the Danube as well as the unique opportunity to visit the most important metropolies that lay alongside the Danube. Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest have an overwhelming history with genuine notions of the yesteryear. Nostalgia is combined with a deeply intriguing history along the ever- changing riverbanks of the Danube.
Just to scratch the surface of this tour; it takes you to the Castle of Eckartsau, which happens to be the place where Austrian Emperor Karl the 1st and his wife Zita met their fate. In Bratislava, where the coronation of Hungarian Kings took place and the famous empress Maria Theresia acquired much of her fame, prestige and honour. In Esztergom, the first Hungarian King, King Stephan was born and accepted his coronation. Empress Sissi of Austria was crowned Queen of Hungary in Budapest.
The tour is mostly flat with rolling hills that are sometimes slightly steep. The Austrian section follows well maintained and equipped cycle paths directly mainly close to the river banks, in Hungary you will often cycle on quiet country backroads. On entering and leaving cities there is, of course, traffic that must be observed!
#eurovelo6

The Indian
Tour Operator: TDA Global Cycling
Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, Eswatini & Zimbabwe
30 days (Bike: 21 days)
2365 km (~113km per day)
Avid
Mixed on/off-road
Guided
Supported
TDA's newest epic ride departs in June 2027
Prices from
Guided
US$ 10800
Overview
Tour Operator TDA Global Cycling
This second and final section of Africa: Ocean to Ocean starts in Maun.
Maun is a hub for flights over the spectacular Okavango Delta, heading east to the borders of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, 900 sq kms of stunning salt pans. The route heads south and then east through the historic gold rush town of Francistown before crossing the border into Zimbabwe where a rest day in Buluwayo, a pleasant hill town, features the ancient Khami Ruins. The road now heads south to Matobo National Park and its incredible rock formations. The riders continue through grassy plains and acacia thorn trees, spinning across the famous Limpopo River and on into South Africa.
The route continues through the stunning Soutpansberg Mountains and on to a rest day at the Blyde River Canyon, the 3rd largest in the world. Unlike the Grand and Fish River Canyons, this is a green canyon, covered in subtropical vegetation. A few stages later, the riders arrive for some R & R and two included game drives at legendary Kruger National Park. The riders then enter the small, friendly kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) and stop for rest day in the capital, Mbabane before continuing to Hlane National Park, previously a private royal hunting ground. The final stages take the riders into Mozambique and a waterfront finish line on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Highlights
- Rhodes-Matopos National Park
- Blyde River Canyon
- Sibebe Rock
- Hlane Royal National Park

Celts - Scotland & Ireland
Tour Operator: Ride and Seek Bicycle Adventures
Ireland & United Kingdom
32 days (Bike: 25 days)
2013 km (~81km per day)
Ride 1 or both stages
Active
Hilly, On-road
Guided
Supported
Newly launched and already sold out for May 2027. Second date now added but already almost full!
Prices from
Guided
€ 17420
Overview
Tour Operator Ride and Seek Bicycle Adventures
The Celtic cycling route from Edinburgh to Dublin — tracing ancient paths through stunning landscapes and historic sites.
Follow in the footsteps of the Celts on a captivating cycling tour from Edinburgh to Dublin. Ride through Scotland and Ireland’s dramatic landscapes, rich with history, legend, and natural beauty.
The Celts tour has been years in the making, inspired by childhood bike trips through the Scottish countryside — experiences that shaped the spirit of discovery and adventure at the heart of this journey and Ride and Seek itself. Conceptualised in-house and crafted with the insight of our trusted local contacts, this tour reflects our passion for immersive travel and cultural connection. It’s a route we’re incredibly proud of, blending stunning landscapes with rich Celtic heritage across Scotland and Ireland.
Join us on a cycling adventure through the heart of Celtic lands, as we journey from the medieval streets of Edinburgh to the vibrant city of Dublin. This unforgettable route is steeped in myth, history, and breathtaking scenery, taking you across Scotland’s rugged Highlands and along Ireland’s wild Atlantic coastline. Along the way, you’ll pedal past ancient battlegrounds, mysterious stone circles, and storied castles that echo with the voices of the past.
Divided into two stages, our epic tour combines some of the finest cycling routes in the British Isles with a rich cultural immersion. From the dramatic, windswept mountains of the Scottish Highlands to the rolling emerald hills of Ireland, every kilometre resonates with the spirit of the Celts — a proud, enduring people whose legacy has shaped the identity and soul of these lands long before recorded history.
Experience firsthand how Celtic traditions, legends, and resilience continue to influence life today. More than just a cycling tour, this is a journey through time and across two nations whose landscapes and cultures are forever intertwined. Whether you seek adventure, history, or a deeper connection to these ancient lands, this Ride and Seek tour promises an inspiring and unforgettable experience from start to finish.

Cape to Safari: Ultimate African Cycling Adventure
Tour Operator: Après Vélo
South Africa
10 days (Bike: 8 days)
435 km (~54km per day)
Active
Mixed on/off-road
Guided
Supported
Three landscapes. Three experiences. One unforgettable ride.
Prices from
Guided
AU$ 11950
Overview
Tour Operator Après Vélo
The Cape, Wine and Safari Experience. Three landscapes. Three experiences. One unforgettable ride.
This is not just a cycling tour — it’s a journey through three of Africa’s most iconic experiences.
From the raw coastal beauty of Cape Town to the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch, finishing deep in a private wildlife game reserve — this is a ride that constantly evolves.
We’ve designed this tour for those who want more than just time in the saddle. It’s about contrast, energy, challenge & reward.
World-class riding balanced with exceptional food, wine, culture, and a safari experience that very few get to encounter by bike.
Cape Town — voted the Best City in the World (Time Out, 2025) — sets the tone with dramatic coastlines and panoramic views.
The Cape Winelands, one of the world's best wine regions renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and award-winning wines, deliver a slower rhythm — vineyard trails, mountain passes, and long lunches.
And then… the shift.
A private safari experience with luxurious accommodation in the Greater Kruger region — where the riding becomes something truly unique, tracking through African bush in search of the Big 5.
This is a bucket list journey. One that blends the ultimate adventure, luxury, and something a little unexpected — curated the Après Vélo way.
The Cape Town & Winelands, and the Safari Experience can be booked separately!
The Tiger Ride
Tour Operator: Mad Dogs Adventure
Malaysia & Thailand
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
425 km (~71km per day)
Active
On-road, Some hills
Guided
Supported
Join Bruce from CTG on this tour in October this year!
Prices from
Guided
HK$ 11800
Overview
Tour Operator Mad Dogs Adventure
A fabulous, relaxed 6-day annual overland adventure
Each day you'll cycle approximately 75km (~35km before and after lunch), interacting with Malaysia and Thailand first-hand, enjoying the fabulous local food, seeing sides to these countries that are the privilege of the bicycle saddle. When the cycling is over you will see enjoy some of Asia's very best beaches, soak in hot springs and enjoy secret out-of-the-way places.
At the end, you'll not only have had a sublime active holiday, but you can boast of a brilliant achievement - cycling from Langkawi to Krabi! The old categories of "Mad Dogs" and "Wild Cats" have been merged. The daily distances of approx 70-75km per day are enjoyable for experienced cyclists and challenging yet very much within reach of those who are new to cycling. Given that you arrive the day before, and probably leave the day after, it's an eight-day adventure holiday, fitting into a week off work. We believe that this meticulously crafted, revamped itinerary is our best ride ever!
This is a scintillating and unique opportunity to experience a deeply personal interaction with Malaysia and Thailand – the people, the food, the landscape, the street life, the culture. You will have a privileged view of life in these countries, and support is always to hand when needed. The vehicle also available for those who have had enough cycling for the time being. At the end, you’ll come away with a great deal of pride, tons of stories and most likely many new friends.

Lake Constance Cycle path
Tour Operator: Radweg-Reisen
Austria, Germany & Switzerland
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
250 km (~42km per day)
Leisure
Cycle paths and trails
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
€ 879
Overview
Tour Operator Radweg-Reisen
Boat trips on Lake Constance and to the Rhine Falls included!
Constance – Schaffhausen – Überlingen – Bregenz – Constance
The Lake Constance Cycle Path is one of the most popular cycle tours in Europe. On this varied tour, you cycle once around the lake and cross three countries in the process. The highlights are certainly the medieval towns of Constance, Stein am Rhein, Meersburg and Schaffhausen. And of course the Rhine Falls, which you can get very close to on a boat trip to the Rhine Falls rock. The daily cycle stages through the charming landscape are not too long, leaving you plenty of time to take in the numerous sights along the way on the classic Lake Constance Cycle Path.
Largely flat, on the first three days slightly hilly on cycle paths, some of which run directly along the shore, some along the riverside roads.

Shogun - Fukuoka to Fuji
Tour Operator: Bike Odyssey
Japan
27 days (Bike: 24 days)
1744 km (~73km per day)
Ride one or both stages
Active
On-road
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
US$ 17900
Overview
Tour Operator Bike Odyssey
Fukuoka to Mount Fuji Cycling Tour
Shōgun. The supreme commander of all Japan. The reins of power rested firmly in their hands for over 700 years. They traversed the country warring, ruling and dominating this spectacular landscape and culture.
Kaidō...these were the roads established in the Edo period under the Shōgun's reign. Our Odyssey takes in parts of the Nakasendō and Kōshū Kaidō which connect Edo (Ancient Tokyo) and Kyoto as well as the ancient trails of the Kumano Kaidō south of Nara and Osaka.
The samurai, whom the Shōgun ruled, are often depicted as stoic warriors whose legacy rarely extended beyond the battlefield. Yet their period of feudal history is remarkably recent and therefore intimately linked to all things modern and Japanese. Only 150 years ago, Japan was in a state of transition as foreigners were first let into the country and the feudal system dominated by the Shōgun collapsed (comparatively feudal Europe ended roughly 500 years ago). How did it all start?
In the 12th century, a transformative era dawned on the islands of Japan as warriors, loyal to their respective clans as they clashed... forever altering the course of Japanese history. The Shōgun emerged, at the summit of a feudal system, stacked with samurai elite reigning over the peasants and merchants. These elite warriors with a profound sense of honor and duty, as well as an unwavering commitment to their lords, established themselves as protectors and administrators in a society deeply rooted in feudalism. Their guiding principles were the codes of Bushido, that emphasized loyalty, courage, and ethical conduct.
As we embark on a journey traversing the land of the rising sun, we'll follow ancient kaidos (historic routes) across the land - walked and ridden - for centuries. They will guide us to explore the historic landscapes where these warriors ruled, conquered and honed their skills. From ancient castles to sacred shrines, our exploration will unveil the multifaceted legacy, showcasing their contributions to art, philosophy, governance and, of course, the way of Bushido.
Mixing traditional Ryokan Inns and their inimitable authentic experience with Onsen hot springs and luxury unique accommodation, this Odyssey has accommodation covered like no other. Post-ride there is nothing better than luxuriating in the hotsprings - Japan does this well!
We begin in Fukuoka, with a culinary bang! But soon to be exploring this lovely rural island of Kyushu, where smoldering volcanoes, cascading waterfalls and steaming onsen baths await! Nature rules supreme here but there is a spectacular underlying history of Shōgun and strongholds! From Oita to Beppu, Fukuoka to Mt Aso, this beautiful start in rural Japan is at its finest. This is an amazing little lesser-known corner of Japan.
From the Kii Peninsula - rolling matcha tea fields merge into remote, rugged and mountainous ancient pathways - which has long been considered sacred ground - and the Kumano Kaido, we will venture into the mystical realm of Buddhist pilgrims, exploring time-honoured temples, unravelling the secrets of the ancient Nara region. This is where the first Japanese Emperors established their capital, leaving behind a tapestry of ancient shrines, temples, tombs and monuments dotted across green rolling hills.
Looping into Ehime's hinterland for picture-perfect Japan, captured all in one prefecture - sacred mountains, Mount Ishizuchi, castle towns, Ozu, villages frozen in time, Uchiko - all spotted with Onsen baths, temples, shrines and hyper modern hotels too! From there to our island hopping adventure on the Shimanami Kaido - this bike path from Honshu to Shikoku stretches across the islands of the Setouchi Sea and is genuinely considered one of the highlights of any cycling in Japan. Then we enter our half way mark by speeding across on Shinkasen - a must-do experience in Japan!
Then for our neon city stage break we arrive in ancient Kyoto, filled with temples, shrines, Geisha and history. From there our route takes us briefly along the Sea of Japan for a coastal rest, before rolling through UNESCO site, Shirakawa. Breath-taking, serene, and charming, this is immense riding country.
And where better to end this Odyssey than along Kaidos through ancient forested roads and villages trapped in time, in Kiso and the Japanese Alps and ending at Fujisan! (Mount Fuji) The symbol of purity, perseverance and eternity, sacred throughout Japanese history. Its steep slopes and snowy peak inspire respect and contemplation, something we will imbue as we reflect on our month-long Shōgun Odyssey.

Tour 21 - All Stages of The Tour de France
Tour Operator: Cure Leukaemia
France & Spain
23 days (Bike: 19 days)
3333 km (~175km per day)
Avid
Big climbs, On-road
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
£ 12000
Overview
Tour Operator Cure Leukaemia
Ride all 21 stages of The Tour de France one week ahead of the professionals.
Have you got what it takes to ride one of the world’s most gruelling and iconic cycling challenges?
The Tour 21 sees a team of amateur cyclists, take on the world’s most gruelling cycling challenge by riding the full Tour de France route, one week ahead of the professionals in June and July. The team will follow the same route and will ride over 3,500km in just 21 days – all to raise over £1,000,000 for Cure Leukaemia, the official charity partner of the Tour de France.
For the closest experience to a pro-cycling team that you will find, register your interest by following the link below!
The only amateur Tour de France ride to include rolling road closures throughout France! And including one week (7 nights) at the Andy Cook Cycling Spring Training Camp in Mallorca.
Minimum Fundraising – £30,000
Three Iconic Stages to put you to the test:
- The Vosges Wall: Stage 14 – Mulhouse to Le Markstein
- The Final Double-Header: The Alpe d’Huez Duet (Stages 19 & 20)
- The Grand Finale: Stage 21 – Thoiry to Paris Champs-Élysées

Central West Cycle Trail
10.0/10 3 review(s)
Tour Operator: Cooper Cycle Tours
Australia
7 days (Bike: 6 days)
377 km (~63km per day)
Active
Mixed on/off-road
Self-Guided
Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
AU$ 1300
Overview
Tour Operator Cooper Cycle Tours
This six-day bike tour through the heart of Central West NSW offers an excellent taste of rural Australia, winding through charming towns and rolling countryside.
Starting in Dubbo, riders head south to Wellington, passing through the quiet village of Geurie, with its friendly locals and classic country bakery. Continuing onwards, the route traverses open farmland and gentle hills to Gulgong, a historic gold rush town where you can explore the Gulgong Pioneer Museum and quaint heritage streets. Expect scenic views of wheat fields and woodlands, perfect for spotting native wildlife.
The journey from Dunedoo to Mendooran follows more undulating terrain, with stretches of bushland providing shade and opportunities for birdwatching. Mendooran itself is a quiet spot ideal for a relaxing arvo at the local pub. The next leg to Ballimore takes you through classic scenery, and the final day back to Dubbo via Wongarbon offers a gentle finish through open plains and small villages.
The best time to tackle this ride is during autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November), when temperatures are mild and the countryside is lush. Summer can be quite hot and dry, while winter brings chilly mornings and occasional frosts. Along the way, you'll find plenty of Aussie hospitality, ample chances to stop at local cafes and country pubs, and beautiful scenery that’s quintessentially NSW.
The terrain throughout is a combination of smooth bitumen and well-maintained gravel roads, making it suitable for touring bikes with wider tyres.

Vikings - Copenhagen to Alesund
Tour Operator: Bike Odyssey
Denmark & Norway
27 days (Bike: 21 days)
1818 km (~87km per day)
Avid
Hilly, On-road
Guided
Supported
Prices from
Guided
€ 18500
Overview
Tour Operator Bike Odyssey
Rising like a storm out of the sparkling canals of Copenhagen to a crescendo among the epic fjords, snowy peaks and roaring waterfalls of Norway.
Invaders, predators, barbarians – the Vikings are often portrayed as one-dimensional warriors whose achievements include little more than plundering and raiding. But from where did the Vikings originate? In 793, terror descended on the coast of Northumbria as armed raiders attacked the defenceless monastery of St Cuthbert on Lindisfarne. The terrified monks watched helplessly as the invaders made off with a haul of treasure and a clutch of captives. It was the first recorded raid by the Vikings, seaborne pirates from Scandinavia who would prey on coastal communities in north-western Europe for more than two centuries and create for themselves a reputation as fierce and pitiless warriors. We will journey into their heartland.
Building into the Odyssey we roll out of Copenhagen, against the flow of commuters of which 50% travel by bike. Leaving the Michelin Star capital of the world (which of course we will experience) we ride towards UNESCO Roskilde, home of Viking longships and gateway to the Isefjord where charming villages dot meadows that gently roll down to the lake. Crossing to one of Europe's cultural hubs Aarhus, we continue our journey which grows each day in ambition - Denmark is the flat cycling king of Europe and we will enjoy this tempo - knowing that ahead, once we cross the Kattegat (North Sea) the terrain will change. The Vikings raided all of Europe from these lands and their remnants are everywhere to be seen from shipyards to burial grounds, to Viking villages - we will travel with history as we board our own vessel to cross to Norway!
Landing in Kristiansand we know we have changed land formations as the hills grow and the waterfalls gush around us. We skirt the North Sea, via the amazing Under - a restaurant literally under the sea! Heading north we descend the 27 switchbacks of Lysebotn - this is a road that needs to be seen to be believed. Hitting the Lysefjord we take the breathtaking hike to Preikestolen - a rock lookout hanging out above the fjord - a terrifying sight, especially when tourists line the edges! We end our Stage 1 journey sailing into Bergen - as Vikings did centuries ago - it makes the perfect changeover point with its smorgasbord of restaurants, museums and heritage waterfront.
Stage 2 and the fjord expedition begins in earnest! With, of course, the best of rewards - epic roads, views and scenery, great hotels, restaurants and experiences. The Fjords of Norway are some of the most dramatic landforms on earth which makes this region a genuine marvel for road cyclists. Many are World Heritage listed and we ride along the best of them springboarding from one sparkling waterway to the next over amazing switchbacked roads past roaring waterfalls and pretty villages. Our journey begins as we boat along our first stage 2 fjord out of Bergen, heading east along the Hardangerfjord where we jump on our bikes. You'll have to concentrate hard as the views are spectacular! From Viking-built churches to cycling under the Skjervsfossen waterfalls, these are great riding days. At adventure capital Voss, we turn north boarding a boat to bridge the kilometre-deep spectacular Sognefjord heading into the Sognefjellet Mountains. The snowy peaks grow as we head to Grotti (which is very much not!) where we take you on a little diversion into our favourite local corner of this epic cycling region - see highlights below. Then back on the road the Dalsnibba and Geirangerfjord await - amazing scenery and must-sees in Norway - one of many on just this day on the bike as the Trollstigen 'Troll's path' lies ahead! Known as Norway's Alpe d'Huez we will ride down it (and back up if you are super keen!) before finishing our epic journey along the Atlantic Ocean road to beautiful Alesund.
