Time for cycle tourism: explorers on two wheels – but in style
From the Andes in Ecuador to the red trails of the Serengeti, via the New Zealand fjords and the Dolomites, here are some of the most spectacular cycling routes.
Cycle tourism is a steadily growing trend. Globally, the market is already worth over 160 billion dollars and could exceed 250 billion by 2031, with annual growth of more than 9 per cent. Europe remains the leading continent, with a turnover of over 44 billion euros and millions of organised trips each year. The profile of the cycle tourist is also changing: almost half are women, the number of Gen Z travellers is growing, and there is an increase in high-spending travellers who choose cycling as a way to slow down, without sacrificing comfort or premium experiences. The phenomenon is no longer limited to die-hard sports enthusiasts or minimalist travellers: cycle tourism has also become one of the most sophisticated sectors of the travel industry, featuring remote lodges, helicopter transfers, private safaris and five-star hotels. According to a recent survey of leading cycle tour operators, Italy is now the most sought-after destination for cycling enthusiasts. Cycle tourism in Italia has seen steady growth, with around 49 million visitors and an estimated direct economic impact of 6.4 billion euros on host regions by 2025, accounting for over 10 per cent of the total number of tourists.
From the Andes in Ecuador to the red trails of the Serengeti, via the New Zealand fjords and the Dolomites, here are some of the most spectacular cycling routes to book now.
One of Mountain Bike Worldwide’s most interesting tours is Incredible Andes, a mountain bike expedition through the Andean region of Ecuador: ten days amongst active volcanoes, remote villages and high-altitude descents. The route takes in almost lunar landscapes, with long trails on the slopes of Cotopaxi and nights spent in charming haciendas. It is designed for experienced and fit riders, with full logistical support and local guides (price: €3,120 in a twin room, excluding flights, bike hire and all dinners apart from the final evening). Next departure on 28 August, mountainbikeworldwide.com). The same tour operator organises an adrenaline-fuelled holiday in Italia, Monumental Dolomites, which traverses the Val di Fassa via iconic mountain passes, alpine trails and mountain huts transformed into contemporary boutique hotels. The itinerary combines technical riding, high-altitude cuisine and spa treatments to recover from the cycling, with the option to hire e-bikes and have private guides (eight days, intermediate to advanced level, €3,840 in a twin room, excluding any flights; next departures 29 August and 12 September).
Fly and cycle through New Zealand’s Southern Alps with Heli-Bike Adventure, a high-intensity tour designed by Black Tomato. Seven nights including helicopter transfers to ridges and valleys accessible only by air, and downhill rides through cinematic landscapes, whilst staying in remote lodges with private hot tubs and views of the fjords. The experience is entirely tailor-made and can include private chefs, wine tastings and scenic flights (bookings from November to March, prices from 7,000 pounds per double room, excluding international flights and any personalised arrangements, blacktomato.com).
One of the strongest trends in luxury travel is ‘slow Japan’, and Butterfield & Robinson has transformed this concept into a meticulously curated experience. The tours are designed for small groups of up to 16 people, travelling across the Noto Peninsula or the rural roads of Kyoto, with stops at traditional ryokans, private hot springs and kaiseki dinners. Each day is tailor-made: short distances, gourmet stops, local artisans and bespoke bicycles, as in Japan Toyama Biking, an 8-day itinerary (from April to November, from $10,995 per double room, including bike hire and domestic flights) or Southern Japan Biking (8 days, from March to November, $11,295 in a twin room including bike hire and domestic flights, butterfield.com).
