Multi-day bike rides might seem intimidating to some cyclists. They require a lot of time and careful preparation to finish. However, these journeys are an amazing opportunity to uncover your hidden biking potential and enjoy some of the most incredible cycling destinations.
In this article, we have gathered a collection of the finest long-distance cycling routes in the world. From the wild hills of Scotland to the sunny beaches of Australia, every path offers a mix of tough exercise, cultural immersion, and fantastic views. So whether you’re seeking guidance or a burst of motivation, we hope this selection assists you in planning your next unforgettable long-distance bike ride.
1. Land’s End to John O’Groats (LEJOG), UK – 1791 km
Traverse the length of the UK, exploring its diverse culture and nature.
- Starting/Ending: Land’s End to John O’Groats
- ↗️ 17,060 m ↘️ 17,170 m
- Pavement: Mostly paved, with some gravel sections.
2. Mizen to Malin (MizMal), Ireland – 585 kilometers
Journey across Ireland’s stunning landscapes, from south to north.
- Starting/Ending: Mizen Head to Malin Head
- ↗️ 4,221 m ↘️ 4,211
- Pavement: Primarily paved, with occasional mixed surfaces.
3. North Coast 500 (NC500), Scotland – 809 kilometers
Explore the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands along the coastline.
- Starting/Ending: Inverness, circular route
- ↗️ 7,347 m ↘️ 7,358
- Pavement: Mix of smooth tarmac and rougher sections.
4. Ride Across America, USA – Approx. 4851 kilometers
A coast-to-coast adventure through diverse American landscapes.
- Starting/Ending: Varies (East to West Coast)
- Pavement: Varies, from asphalt highways to gravel roads.
5. Pacific Coast Highway, USA and Canada – 2900 kilometers
Experience the spectacular Pacific coastline on this scenic route.
- Starting/Ending: Vancouver, Canada to Southern California, USA
- Pavement: Predominantly paved.
- ↗️ 35,117 m ↘️ 35,193
6. Going to the Sun Road, USA – Roughly 80 kilometers
A breathtaking ride through Montana’s Glacier National Park.
- Starting/Ending: West Glacier to St. Mary
- 📈 Elevation: 1,500m
- Pavement: Paved mountain road.
7. Trans Mexico, Mexico – 3500 kilometers
Discover the rich culture and varied terrain of Mexico.
- Starting/Ending: Tijuana to Cancún
- 📈 Elevation: ~25,000m
- Pavement: Mix of paved and rural roads.
8. Tour d’Afrique, Africa – 11010 kilometers
An epic journey across Africa, from the pyramids to Table Mountain.
- Starting/Ending: Cairo, Egypt to Cape Town, South Africa
- 📈 Elevation: >50,000m
- Pavement: Varied, including asphalt and dirt paths.
9. Highway One, Vietnam – 2300 kilometers
A culturally rich route spanning the length of Vietnam.
- Starting/Ending: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
- Description: 📈 Elevation: ~15,000m
- Pavement: Primarily paved.
10. Friendship Highway, China/Nepal – 806 kilometers
Journey through the Himalayas on this high-altitude, awe-inspiring route.
- Starting/Ending: Lhasa, Tibet to Kathmandu, Nepal
- 📈 Elevation: ~15,000m
- Pavement: Mostly paved.
11. Shimanami Kaido, Japan – 70 kilometers
A scenic and accessible island-hopping route in Japan.
- Starting/Ending: Onomichi to Imabari
- 📈 Elevation: 1,500m
- Pavement: Well-maintained asphalt.
12. Great Ocean Road, Australia – 243 kilometers
Enjoy Australia’s most famous coastal ride with stunning ocean views.
- Starting/Ending: Torquay to Allansford
- 📈 Elevation: ~2,000m
- Pavement: Smooth tarmac.
We are just a message away if you need assistance with route planning on MapMagic or have any other questions regarding our service. To learn how MapMagic can benefit you, read our complete how-to guide. Happy cycling!