7 Major Cycling Routes Every Rider Should Know

When planning epic bike journeys, Major cycling routes are long-distance paths celebrated for scenery, infrastructure, and popularity among cyclists serve as the backbone of any adventure. Knowing the key corridors lets you skip the guesswork and focus on the fun - whether you’re chasing coastal cliffs, rolling vineyards, or historic towns.

Why a Shortlist Helps

There are hundreds of regional trails, but a handful stand out for their length, surface quality, and support services. Riders who stick to these corridors benefit from well‑marked signage, frequent bike‑friendly accommodations, and reliable transport links. In short, you spend less time planning and more time pedalling.

1. EuroVelo 6 - River Route

EuroVelo a continent‑spanning network of 17 long‑distance bike routes across Europe includes Route 6, often called the River Route. It follows the Danube, Rhine, and several other rivers from the Atlantic coast at Nantes, France, to the Black Sea in Romania.

• Distance: ~3,600 km (2,200 mi)
• Difficulty: Moderate - mostly flat river valleys, occasional hill climbs
• Highlights: Loire Valley chateaux, Czech castles, Austrian alpine vistas
• Best time: Late spring to early autumn

Because it strings together major river corridors, you can hop on and off using train stations that sit alongside the waterways.

2. National Cycle Network - Route 5 (Greenway)

The National Cycle Network a UK‑wide system of safe, traffic‑free routes managed by Sustrans offers Route 5, also known as the Greenway, stretching from Reading to Bristol.

• Distance: 80 km (50 mi)
• Difficulty: Easy - flat, well‑paved surface
• Highlights: River Thames views, historic market towns, the Kennet and Avon Canal
• Best time: Year‑round, though spring brings blooming wildflowers

This short but scenic stretch is perfect for a weekend getaway from Bristol.

3. Great Western Greenway - Ireland

Great Western Greenway a 42‑km off‑road trail along a former railway line in County Mayo, Ireland offers a taste of rugged coastal Ireland without traffic.

• Distance: 42 km (26 mi)
• Difficulty: Easy - mostly flat, compacted shale
• Highlights: Atlantic cliffs, Pontoon Beach, historic villages
• Best time: Summer months, when sea breezes are gentle

Bike rentals are plentiful in Westport, and local pubs welcome cyclists with hearty meals.

4. Celtic Trail - Wales

The Celtic Trail a 400‑km route that winds through the heart of Wales, linking coastal towns and mountain passes showcases Wales' diverse landscapes.

• Distance: 400 km (250 mi)
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard - includes some steep climbs in Snowdonia
• Highlights: Pembrokeshire coastline, Brecon Beacons, historic castles
• Best time: Late May to early September

Because the trail is split into shorter sections, you can tackle it over several weeks, staying in B&Bs along the way.

5. Lake District Loop - England

The Lake District Loop a 250‑km circuit that encircles England’s most spectacular national park offers demanding climbs and breathtaking lake views.

• Distance: 250 km (155 mi)
• Difficulty: Hard - steep ascents, variable weather
• Highlights: Windermere, Derwentwater, Grasmere, Scafell Pike
• Best time: Late summer, when mountain passes are clear

Experienced riders often use this loop for training, as it builds endurance and climbing strength.

6. South Coast Cycleway - England

The South Coast Cycleway a 100‑km coastal route from Portsmouth to Brighton, part of the National Cycle Network combines seaside towns with rolling dunes.

• Distance: 100 km (62 mi)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate - mostly flat, occasional wind‑exposed sections
• Highlights: Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Chichester Cathedral, Brighton Pier
• Best time: Spring and early autumn, when crowds are thin

The route is well‑served by cafés and train stations, allowing for flexible start‑stop points.

7. Hadrian’s Wall Cycle Route - England

Following the ancient Roman frontier, the Hadrian’s Wall Cycle Route a 135‑km path that mirrors the historic wall across northern England offers a blend of history and rugged countryside.

• Distance: 135 km (84 mi)
• Difficulty: Moderate - mixed surface, occasional steep climbs
• Highlights: Roman forts, Northumberland National Park, coastal cliffs at Bowness-on‑Solway
• Best time: Late spring to early autumn

Because the route follows the wall, you can easily spot interpretive signage and museums along the way.

Comparison at a Glance

Planning Tips for Any Route

Regardless of which corridor you choose, a few universal habits keep the ride smooth.

• Gear up right: A lightweight touring bike with disc brakes works well on mixed surfaces. Carry a spare tube, multi‑tool, and a compact pump.
• Map it out: Use apps like Komoot or Ride with GPS that support offline maps. Download GPX files for the entire route before you set off.
• Book early: Popular sections (e.g., Lake District, EuroVelo towns) fill up quickly in peak season. Reserve B&B or caravan sites a month ahead.
• Stay fueled: Pack high‑energy snacks-nuts, dried fruit, energy bars-and refill at local cafés whenever possible.
• Check the weather: Coastal routes can get windy, mountain routes can shift to rain fast. A waterproof jacket and layered clothing are essential.

Following these steps means you spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying the scenery.

Quick Takeaway

Whether you crave river valleys, coastal cliffs, or historic walls, these major cycling routes give you a proven framework for a memorable ride. Pick the one that matches your fitness level, time available, and scenery preferences, then hit the road with confidence.