In pictures: Five of the most beautiful bike rides in the world

The most beautiful bike rides in the world deliver stunning scenery, with expanses of quiet countryside and breathtaking ocean views.

The world's most beautiful bike rides offer unbelievable scenery. Image via Pixabay.

The world is full of stunning bike rides just waiting to be discovered. At home, the Cape Town Cycle Tour is renowned for its scenic route around the Cape Peninsula. Now that the 2025 race is finished, it’s time to set our sights on a few other stunning paths to cycle along.

Land’s End to John O’Groats (UK)

If you want the satisfaction of crossing an entire country, you’ll surely want to try this trail. One of the most famous and beautiful bike rides in the world, Land’s End to John O’Groats (LEJOG) traverses the length of the United Kingdom.

LEJOG stretches 1791 kilometres but depending on how much you want to cover, you can do it in seven days to three weeks. Highlights include the limestone cliffs of Cheddar Gorge in Wales and quiet backcountry roads in Scotland.

Pacific Coast Highway (Canada-USA)

Starting in Vancouver and winding 2900 kilometres to Southern California, the Pacific Coast Highway is another of the most scenic bike rides in the world. The landscape varies from the magnificent Oregon coast into the Redwood forests of California.

Wildlife to look out for include sea lions and elk which riders say are very easy to spot!

Friendship Highway (Tibet)

Imagine cycling to an altitude of 15 000 metres above sea level…That’s precisely what happens when you pedal along the Friendship Highway. The altitude change takes getting used to but the views of the Himalayas are jaw-dropping.

With this stunning cycling tour, you’ll make your way for 806 kilometres through serene Tibet to the Nepal/China border.

Rhine Cycle Route (Switzerland-Netherlands)

Following the twists of the Rhine River, this is another of the world’s most beautiful bike rides. The Rhine Cycle Route traverses six countries, starting in Switzerland and finishing in the Netherlands.

It’s recommended that you take two to three weeks to complete the full route. Look out for the majestic Alps, the glistening shores of Lake Constance and rustic windmills!

switzerland — The Rhine Cycle Route stretches from Switzerland to the Netherlands. Image via Pixabay.

Great Ocean Road (Australia)

Turquoise waters and craggy rock formations make the Great Ocean Road a winner amongst the world’s gorgeous bike rides. The smooth tarmac road spans 2000 kilometres on Australia’s southern coast.

Along the route, cyclists can enjoy spotting koalas and take a dip in one of Great Otway National Park’s waterfalls.