They say you never forget how to ride a bike, but what about bike rides that are unforgettable?
It's National Bike Week, a great excuse to hop on a two-wheeled vehicle asap. Especially because bike commuters report lower stress levels and greater feelings of freedom and relaxation than those who drive cars to work. And it benefits your little ones, too; kids who cycle to school are associated with lower odds of being overweight.
This time, give your bike the appreciation it deserves by taking it on one of these exotic and adventurous bike trails guaranteed to awe you.
1. National Highway 1, Vietnam
This iconic highway connects the two major Vietnamese cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and cycling it means you travel the length of the country. The journey is roughly 700 miles and takes approximately two to three weeks to complete. But it sure is worth it as you travel through rural villages and beautiful and lush foliage of the coastline.
2. Great Divide Route, U.S. and Canada
The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is America's premiere cycling route, spanning from New Mexico all the way to the edge of Canada. And if that sounds pretty long, you're right -- 2,700 miles long. But on your way, you'll see some great Americana landscape: the Great Divide Basin in Wyoming and Boreas Pass in Colorado, to name a few.
3. Munda Biddi Trail, Australia
In Noongar Aboriginal, the name of this approximately 621-mile-long off-road trail means "path through the forest". And it sure lives up to its name, as cyclists travel under eucalyptus forests and spy indigenous wildlife, like koalas.
4. Shimanami, Japan
Although this route is shorter than the others, at 37 miles, it doesn't make it any less rewarding. This route takes you over six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Yes, you read correctly: island hopping. It makes for a great day trip.
5. Land's End, England to John O'Groats, Scotland
This classic bike route stretches across the British Isles. Bikers will spend the 1,000 miles riding through rocky cliffs and rolling hills.
6. Great Ocean Road, Australia
As if the name doesn't already convince you what this route is all about. Bikers following this 172-mile-long southern Australian trail will take in rugged coasts and sandy beaches.
7. Route des Grandes Alpes, France
Completed in 1937, this 425-mile-long winding road through the French Alps is also regularly featured in the Tour de France. The route takes you from Lake Geneva down to the Mediterranean, and a trip here could be the best decision of your spring and summer season.
