End to End Bike Tours: The Best and the Rest

End to end bike tours offer cyclists the thrilling challenge of traversing entire islands, countries, or even continents from one extreme point to another – by either the longest or another logical crossing. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a dedicated roadie, or a casual rider looking for a new goal, these routes promise unique landscapes, cultural encounters and a true sense of achievement. This guide highlights some of the very best end to end bike tours across the globe, along with a selection of notable alternatives.

Country End to End Bike Routes

Portugal:

• Being an elongated country the challenge is on from north to south (or vice versa) mostly following the legendary N2, Europe's Route 66.

Ireland:

• The classic ride is Mizen Head to Malin Head, but there are so many points along the south and north coasts to choose from. Or try Clontarf to Clifden for a stunning east-west ride.

France:

• Various routes from Brittany or Normandy to Provence and the south. Each a unique cultural and scenic adventure. The Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean, including the Canal du Midi, is also one not to be missed.

Vietnam:

• Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City: while not at extremities of the country, this is a popular and practical route offering coastal scenery, highland passes, and vibrant cities.

Island End to End Bike Routes

Land’s End to John O’Groats, Great Britain (UK):

• A classic journey stretching from the southwestern tip of England to the northeastern tip of Scotland, covering about 1,400 km. Cyclists experience rolling countryside, historic towns, and rugged highlands.

Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada:

• Ride from North Cape to East Point to traverse the island from tip to tip in 273 km, passing through picturesque coastal villages, red sand beaches, and rolling farmland. The Confederation Trail offers a well-maintained, car-free path for much of the journey, making it accessible for all levels.

South or North Island, New Zealand:

• With each island lending itself to the challenge, stunning scenery and various routes are on offer. Why not do both!

Continent End to End Bike Routes

Africa: Cairo to Cape Town:

• The iconic trans-African route, crossing deserts, savannahs, rainforests, and bustling cities.

Europe: North Cape (Norway) to Gibraltar (Spain):

• Ride the length of Europe from the Arctic Circle to the Mediterranean, passing through countless cultures, languages, and landscapes (over 5,000 km).
• Or ride from east to west - Poland to Portugal, Estonia to España or Istanbul to Ireland. Choose your challenge.

Australia: Perth to Sydney:

• Cross the vastness of the Australian continent, including the Nullarbor Plain, desert, and lush coastal regions (over 4,000 km).

Pan-American Highway: Alaska to Argentina:

• Spanning two continents, this is the ultimate end to end ride, stretching over 25,000 km from Prudhoe Bay, USA, to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Other End to End Bike Routes

River Rhine:

• A stunning 1250 km ride along the banks of the mighty Rhine, following the EuroVelo 15 cycle route through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Mississippi River:

• At 2552 miles from Minnesota to Louisiana, this is an epic and challenging way to explore the United States and touch on 11 states.

Spain Coast to Coast:

• The Bay of Biscay to the Mediterranean Sea is two challenges in one, the classic coast to coast and a ride alongside, or through, the iconic Pyrenees Mountains of Tour de France fame.

River Loire:

• At over 1000 km this is France’s longest river and one of the longest, and prettiest, river cycling routes in the world.

Tips for Planning Your End to End Bike Tour

• Route Research: Use reputable cycling websites, tour operators, local clubs, and mapping tools to plan your route. Consider traffic, terrain, and accommodation options.
• Timing: Check climate and seasonal conditions. Some routes are best tackled in spring or autumn to avoid extreme weather.
• Gear: Invest in a reliable touring bike, quality panniers, and essential gear. Don’t forget spares and a first aid kit.
• Local Knowledge: Tap into cycling forums, regional tourism sites, and local bike shops for insider tips. Or better still, use a reputable tour operator and guide.
• Health & Safety: Stay hydrated, protect against sunburn, and keep emergency contacts handy. In remote areas, let someone know your route.

♢♢♢

Whether you’re chasing the wild winds of Tasmania, the alpine passes of New Zealand, the epic stretches of Europe or the Nullarbor crossing in Australia, end to end bike tours provide adventure, personal growth and stories to last a lifetime. The best routes offer both challenge and reward, while the rest still make for unforgettable journeys. Get your bike ready, plan smart, and embrace the ride—there’s an end to end adventure waiting for you somewhere in the world.

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From the Editor:

Over 100 End to End Bike Tours that you can join

The bike tours listed below are not ranked in order but the results are heavily weighted towards tours or operators that I can vouch for and can be confident of having a successful (if not amazing!) trip where you are looked after at least as well as the listing implies.
You can also use the filters to reduce the list (e.g. by guided tours, family tours, easy tours or many more).
Of course you can, as I did, choose a section or stage and do another as and when suits you.

Read about my experience on tours that I have been fortunate enough to join.

• My Adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way

Another source of good independent opinions is reviews from fellow cycle tourists. Why not share your opinion when you get home?