Top 10 Cycling Routes in the World: The European Alps, Colorado in the USA, and New Zealand's South Island

Introduction

For many cyclists in Taiwan, a round-island ride is just the beginning. The world is vast, and there are countless magnificent roads waiting to be ridden. From the majestic snow-capped peaks of the European Alps, to the red-rock plateaus of Colorado in the USA, to the fjord-hidden gems of New Zealand’s South Island—these top-tier cycling routes are not just physical challenges, but life experiences of measuring the world with your own two legs.

The European Alps: Riding on the Roof of the World

The European Alps stretch across France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, and other countries, making it the world’s most concentrated hub of “legendary climbs,” with many sections serving as stages for the Tour de France and the Giro.

Recommended Route: Route des Grandes Alpes

• Approximately 700 km in total, starting from Geneva on the shores of Lake Geneva, crossing 17 mountain passes, and arriving in Nice on the French Riviera.
• Passes through famous Tour de France cols such as the Col du Galibier (elevation 2,645 m), letting you ride in the footsteps of professional cyclists.
• Best months to ride: July to September, when the snow on high mountain passes has melted and the roads are open.
• Recommended to complete in 10 to 14 days, with abundant accommodation options along the way.

Colorado, USA: The Majestic Ride Through Highland Red Rocks

Recommended Route: Colorado Cycling

Colorado boasts the most extensive cycling infrastructure in the United States, especially around Boulder and Denver, with well-developed bike lanes and ample supplies.

Colorado’s elevation generally ranges between 1,500 and 3,500 meters. Cyclists from flatland Taiwan will need an acclimatization period of 2 to 4 days, otherwise altitude sickness may disrupt the trip.

New Zealand’s South Island: A Cycling Paradise of Fjords and Grasslands

Recommended Route: Otago Central Rail Trail

This is one of New Zealand’s most famous long-distance cycling routes, approximately 150 km in length. Built along a disused railway track, it features gentle rolling terrain suitable for riders of all fitness levels.

• Difficulty: Low to moderate (no high-difficulty climbs throughout)
• Highlights: Crosses bridges, tunnels, and abandoned mines from the 19th-century gold rush era, offering a blend of natural and cultural scenery.
• Recommended duration: 3 to 5 days
• Best season: November to April (New Zealand summer)

Another more challenging option is the New Zealand Cycle Trail / Te Ara Ahi, which links the entire South Island from the fjords to the Canterbury Plains.

Other Top-Tier Routes Worth Mentioning

Beyond the three major regions above, several other routes are also highly appealing:

• Japan’s “Onomichi Matsue Kaido” from Shimane Prefecture to Hiroshima: Crosses the islands of the Seto Inland Sea with picturesque scenery.
• Spain’s Cantabrian Coast Route: Rides along the Atlantic coast, combining mountain and sea views.
• Canada’s Icefields Parkway in the Rocky Mountains: From Banff to Jasper, featuring glaciers, lakes, and elk in the same frame.
• Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands Tea Plantation Route: Lush green tea plantations and tropical charm, rich in cultural experiences.

Practical Tips

Important preparations before cycling abroad:

• Bicycle shipping: Regulations vary by airline; confirm packaging requirements and fees in advance. Bringing your own bike helps with familiarity and comfort.
• Mobile network: In Europe, purchase an EU-wide SIM card; in the USA, T-Mobile or AT&T offer broader coverage; in New Zealand, Spark or Vodafone NZ.
• Emergency repair tools: Tire repair kits, chain quick links, and a portable pump are essential. Overseas repair shops may not carry the specifications you need.
• Insurance: For long-distance cycling trips, it is recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers “outdoor activity injuries.”

Conclusion

The world’s most beautiful scenery often waits quietly around the corner of a mountain road where no car horns are heard. Whether it’s the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, the red rocks of Colorado, or the fjords and grasslands of New Zealand, every top-tier cycling route tells the same story: clip in, ride out, and let the scenery find you.

Related Reading

• Top 10 Cycling Travel Destinations in the World: Riding Sanctuaries Worth Flying Halfway Around the Globe
• The World’s Most Beautiful Cycling Routes: Top Riding Destinations in New Zealand, Iceland, Norway, and Japan
• Around-the-World Cycling Adventures: The Riding Philosophy of Global Digital Nomads
• The Travel Philosophy of Cyclists: 36 Ways to Explore Taiwan by Bike