Planning a trip? Try our tips and treat yourself to relaxation in body and mind

Are you also tempted to pedal hard this spring? You are not alone. Bikepacking is a trend that combines cycling and tourism. On a bike, you can go off the beaten track and discover treasures that are not accessible by car. Here are four Euronews tips for routes where you will discover beautiful nature and unique monuments.

The planet will thank you, the starting points of all our routes can be reached comfortably by train. And each of them offers something unique.

You might even see flamingos

From Amsterdam to Bruges, 280 km, 5 days

Take a bike ride along the sea from Amsterdam to Bruges. You’ll start your journey in the vibrant Dutch capital, where you can admire picturesque canals and world-class museums. On the way to Belgium, you’ll enjoy coastal scenery, dunes and historic cities like Ghent. Once you arrive in Bruges, treat yourself to some delicious Belgian chocolate and beer. You deserve it. Although this route is straight, strong headwinds can sometimes make it difficult. You can use the Windfinder app to determine the best time and direction to ride. Both Amsterdam and Bruges are major railway hubs, and the route is easily accessible by rail in both directions.

Amsterdam, the capital of cycling

From Valence to Perpignan, 459 km, 6 days

This route starts 2.5 hours by train from Paris. It follows the Rhône River to Perpignan near the Spanish border along the southern part of the European Divide Trail. The route is more challenging in places with several rugged terrain sections. Along the way, consider stopping in Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city boasts well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Arles Amphitheatre and the Alyscamps Necropolis. If you’re more into nature, you might be lucky enough to spot flamingos and wild horses in the Camargue marshes.

Arles is calling for a stop

Highland Trail in the Scottish Highlands, 885 km, 14 days

The Highland Trail 550, which weaves through the mountains and lochs of the Scottish Highlands, is a real challenge for all cycle tourists. The 885 km route leads through ancient wilderness, past enchanting waterfalls and, thanks to peaks such as the “Devil’s Staircase” – a steep climb up the mountainside – it is recommended only for experienced bikepackers. Scotland is one of the few countries in Europe where you can pitch a tent on all public land (subject to a few exceptions and restrictions). To get to the start of the trail, take the train from Glasgow to Tyndrum.

Scotish Highlands

Rolling German Forests, 208 km 3 days

The Taunus Storm Chase is an exciting cycling adventure in the Taunus region of Germany. Starting and ending in the medieval village of Runkel, this route winds through rolling hills, lush forests, and charming towns. The historic area is full of Roman ruins, and parts of the cycle path follow the former line of fortifications that separated the Roman Empire and Germanic tribes until 260 AD. You can also reach Runkel by train from Frankfurt am Main.

This awaits you in Germany

Before you venture beyond the boundaries of everyday life, register for this year’s May Challenge, enjoy sustainable transport even during weekdays, and support the activities of the AutoMat association. Thank you!