Destinations – Cycling Great Escapes https://cyclinggreatescapes.com Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:49:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 173324792 Bike Tennessee Program Expands with 37 New Gravel Routes Adding More Than 1,000 Miles of Diverse Terrain https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/bike-tennessee-program-expands-with-37-new-gravel-routes-adding-more-than-1000-miles-of-diverse-terrain/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bike-tennessee-program-expands-with-37-new-gravel-routes-adding-more-than-1000-miles-of-diverse-terrain https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/bike-tennessee-program-expands-with-37-new-gravel-routes-adding-more-than-1000-miles-of-diverse-terrain/#respond Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:32:15 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=4129 […]]]> (Nashville, Tenn.) The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is inviting cyclists to experience even more of Tennessee’s breathtaking scenery and natural beauty with the addition of 37 newly curated gravel cycling routes to its Bike Tennessee program. Launching today, these routes build upon an existing network of 52 road cycling routes, adding more than 1,000 miles of diverse terrain and creating even more opportunities for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts to explore the state on two wheels.

The addition of 37 newly curated gravel cycling routes builds upon Bike Tennessee’s existing network of 52 road cycling routes. ©

Bike Tennessee’s recent growth aligns with Tennessee’s thriving outdoor economy, which generated $15.6 billion in 2024 and ranks No. 4 in the Southeast, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Through Bike Tennessee, which first launched in 2024, TDTD is leveraging the expanding cycling community to drive visitation and economic impact, particularly across the state’s rural communities known for their unparalleled natural scenery.

Tennessee offers breathtaking scenery and natural beauty… ©

The newly added gravel routes are accessible through the Ride with GPS app and were developed in collaboration with professional route developer and cycling guide Shannon Burke of Tennessee Gravel. With more than 1,800 miles across 50 counties from Memphis to Mountain City, Bike Tennessee features a wide range of terrain and riding styles, including scenic mountain landscapes, challenging climbs, farmland connectors, river valmore than 1,800 miles across 50 counties from Memphis to Mountain City, Bike Tennessee features a wide range of terrain and riding styles, including scenic mountain landscapes, challenging climbs, farmland connectors, river valleys and tree-lined backroads.

Bike Tennessee features a wide range of terrain and riding styles. ©

As an ambassador partner of Ride with GPS, all 89 Bike Tennessee routes are carefully mapped to provide cyclists with detailed navigation, elevation profiles and route insights. Riders can also discover terrain details, key waypoints and hidden gems along the way, with options to customize routes based on skill level and riding preferences.

From scenic mountain landscapes, to challenging climbs, farmland connectors, river valleys and tree-lined backroads, Tennessee is a global destination of choice. ©

Cyclists can learn more about Bike Tennessee and explore available road and gravel routes by visiting Bike Tennessee’s website or by following Bike Tennessee on Facebook and Instagram. Join the conversation using #BikeTN.

About Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on social media for travel inspiration.

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Hit the Trails for a Summer of Racing, Riding & Alpine Adventure at Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/hit-the-trails-for-a-summer-of-racing-riding-alpine-adventure-at-pomeroy-kananaskis-mountain-lodge/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=hit-the-trails-for-a-summer-of-racing-riding-alpine-adventure-at-pomeroy-kananaskis-mountain-lodge https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/hit-the-trails-for-a-summer-of-racing-riding-alpine-adventure-at-pomeroy-kananaskis-mountain-lodge/#respond Thu, 09 Apr 2026 23:02:31 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=4118 […]]]> This spring and summer, the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge will come alive with a dynamic lineup of races, outdoor adventures and wellness-focused experiences, reinforcing its reputation as one of Alberta’s top destinations for active living in the Canadian Rockies.

Kananaskis offers great riding options from premier cycling events to excursions where visitors can embrace adventure at their own pace. ©

Cycling enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels are invited to The Divide Gravel Event, a premier cycling event taking place June 5 – 7, 2026 at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. Hosted by retired professional road racer and 2025 Unbound champion, Rob Britton, the three-day event blends challenge, community and connection in a truly immersive mountain setting.

Riders can choose from shorter gravel loops (55 km) to full-day rides (85 km or 110 km), each route showcasing the rugged beauty of Kananaskis while offering participants the opportunity to ride alongside seasoned pros. Along the way, participants will gain insights and coaching from veteran riders, drawn from their years of elite racing and backcountry exploration.

Test your mettle at the The Divide Gravel Event, the Kananaskis 100 Mile Relay, or a brand-new race series, simply titled Canadian Rocky Mountains, all in the Kananaskis Valley. ©

Off the trails, the experience will continue at The Lodge with curated programming designed to support both performance and recovery. Guests and pros can mingle through fireside chats, wellness and recovery experiences and interactive workshops led by industry leaders shaping the future of gravel riding.

While the races will draw passionate athletes, The Divide Gravel Event is designed to be just as rewarding for friends and family accompanying the athletes, through activities like guided hikes, restorative spa treatments and elevated dining experiences. Whether cheering from the sidelines or unwinding in the mountains, there are countless ways to be part of the weekend beyond The Divide itself.

Enjoy rentals and guided mountain bike tours through the valley as you explore the area’s expansive trail network. ©

For those looking for a different type of adventure, on June 20, 2026, the Kananaskis 100 Mile Relay will celebrate its 40th anniversary. The iconic team event will begin in Longview and wind its way through breathtaking foothills and mountain landscapes before finishing at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. Later in the season, endurance sport organizer Rnest Endurance will launch a brand-new race series, simply titled Canadian Rocky Mountains, in the Kananaskis Valley. The series will offer participants a fresh way to experience the region’s natural terrain, with courses beginning and ending at The Lodge. Additionally, Explore Kananaskis will also present its first half marathon and 10K race.

Beyond organized events, visitors to the region can embrace adventure at their own pace and on their own schedule. Just steps away from the doors of The Lodge, Kananaskis Outfitters offers adventure rentals and guided mountain bike tours through the valley, making it easy for both beginners and experienced riders to explore the area’s expansive trail network. After a day of adventure on two wheels or trail running on Strava routes, hotel guests can relax at the luxury Black Diamond Club or unwind with hydrotherapy at the renowned Kananaskis Nordic Spa.

After a day of adventure on two wheels enjoy Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge’s great amenities. ©

“With the growing interest in active travel and wellness-focused experiences, Kananaskis offers a truly unique setting where guests can challenge themselves outdoors and then recover and reconnect in comfort,” said Liz Hovey-Smith, General Manager, Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. “From world-class events to everyday adventure, we’re proud to be a hub for experiences that support both physical and mental well-being.”

Those wishing to attend The Divide Gravel Event can do so by registering online.

STAY CONNECTED 
Website: lodgeatkananaskis.com 
Instagram: @kananaskislodge
Facebook: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection

About Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
Where backcountry beauty and luxury meet. Part of the Marriott Bonvoy Autograph Collection, the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge offers 317 rooms, 19,804 square feet of meeting space, five dining outlets, as well as the Kananaskis Nordic Spa and an expansive indoor/outdoor waterpark with new heated outdoor pool. The Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, located at the base of Mount Kidd, offers direct access to stunning pathways, including the breathtaking Village Rim. Situated in Kananaskis Village and next to Kananaskis Outfitters, guests can rent outdoor equipment year-round, including mountain bikes, hiking poles, cross country skis, skates or snowshoes. The Lodge offers a robust guest activities calendar, with many supervised activities so parents and kids can have a relaxing yet adventurous time. Additionally, the concierge can provide suggested Strava routes for various activities. Finally, each evening features the Lodge’s signature Fireside Moment, an authentically Canadian campfire where guests gather to connect with the great outdoors.

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Gravelle Laurentides Unveils Fabulous Gravel Cycling Routes in the Heart of Quebec’s Laurentians https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/gravelle-laurentides-unveils-fabulous-gravel-cycling-routes-in-the-heart-of-quebecs-laurentians/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gravelle-laurentides-unveils-fabulous-gravel-cycling-routes-in-the-heart-of-quebecs-laurentians https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/gravelle-laurentides-unveils-fabulous-gravel-cycling-routes-in-the-heart-of-quebecs-laurentians/#respond Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:27:55 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=4086 […]]]> Gravel biking is all the rage and we have what it takes for curious riders who want to try it out or for seasoned riders looking for new adventures!

Gravelle Laurentides features amazing gravel cycling adventures in the heart of Quebec’s Laurentians. ©

We offer routes for all levels of gravel riders. Whether you’re looking for a one-day introductory ride or an adventure route with several overnight stays, we have a variety of options available, including campsites, guesthouses, and hostels.

You’ll be charmed by the variety of landscapes, bodies of water, charming villages, and microbreweries. A delightful mix of gravel roads, asphalt, bike paths, and nature trails.

Immersive Nature
Boreal forests, crystal-clear lakes and mountains. Experience an authentic adventure in the heart of unspoiled landscapes.

Villages and culture
Discover the charming villages, local cafes and craft microbreweries that dot your routes.

All levels
From family walks to multi-day adventures, find the route that suits you.

From beginner riders to experts… discover the best gravel routes in the Laurentians region. ©

Explore Six Amazing Routes
Discover the best gravel routes in the Laurentians region, from beginner riders to expert adventures, explore nature by bike.

La Grande Boréale -Aerobic Corridor, Morin-Heights
Want to discover the Laurentians in a different way, at the pace of your gravel bike? This great loop route invites you to tour the region in 4 or 5 days, depending on the distance you wish to cover each day.

Distance: 255 km
Elevation gain: 2777 m
Duration: 4-5 days
Surface type: Asphalt road (37%), Gravel road (63%)
Level: Very difficult

The Western Retreat
Much more than an extension of the Great Northern Lights. The Western Retreat is not simply an extension of the Great Northern: it’s an experience to be lived in its own right.

Distance: 154 km
Elevation gain: 1494 m
Duration: 2 days
Surface type: Asphalt road (20%), Gravel road (80%)
Level: Very difficult

You’ll be charmed with a delightful mix of gravel roads, asphalt, bike paths, and nature. ©

The Little Northern Lights
A day of action… or a night to extend the adventure. Accessible in a day or to be fully experienced through a camping or glamping experience at the Eco Park, this route is for those who love challenges and variety.

Distance: 106 km
Elevation gain: 1168 m
Duration: 1-2 days
Surface type: Asphalt road (40%), Gravel road (60%)
Level: Intermediate/Difficult

The Little Bear
An iconic route in the heart of the Laurentians. At the heart of this loop lies Val-David, a unique village, true to its slogan “a world apart and to share”. A must-see in the Laurentians, it forms the nerve center of this gravel cycling route, rich in discoveries and contrasts.

Distance: 71 km
Elevation gain: 621 m
Duration: One day
Surface type: Asphalt road (52%), Gravel road (48%)
Level: Intermediate

Discover charming villages, local cafes and craft microbreweries along all of the routes. ©

Le P’tit Narval – Aerobic Corridor, Morin-Heights
An ideal introduction to gravel biking. The Le P’tit Narval introductory loop is designed as an accessible, enjoyable, and well-paced first experience with gravel biking. It allows you to discover the sensations of gravel riding while enjoying a smooth and inspiring environment.

Distance: 31.5 km
Elevation gain: 411 m
Duration: Half day
Surface type: Asphalt road (40%), Gravel road (60%)
Level: Intermediate

La Monroe – Lake Monroe Service Centre
Perfect for a family outing, the Lake Monroe loop is a family-friendly introduction to gravel biking, offering a gentle 13km route that allows you to discover the area at a relaxed pace.

Distance: 13 km
Elevation gain: 94 m
Duration: Half day
Surface type: Gravel road (100%)
Level: Very easy

For more information please visit here.

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Cycling Norway in Midwinter: A Nine-Day E-Cargo Bike Journey Through Extreme Cold https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/cycling-norway-in-midwinter-a-nine-day-e-cargo-bike-journey-through-extreme-cold/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cycling-norway-in-midwinter-a-nine-day-e-cargo-bike-journey-through-extreme-cold Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:31:41 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=3885 […]]]> In his latest film Markus Stitz discovers the joys and challenges of winter bikepacking. ‘The Best Season’ is now available to watch for free on YouTube and follows the cyclist on a 680-km bikepacking journey from Eidsvoll to Gjøvik, Lillehammer, Ringebu, Dovre, Folldal, Alvdal, Budor and back to Eidsvoll in Southern Norway.

Markus Stitz on his 680-km bikepacking journey in Norway on a Tern Orox S12 e-cargo bike. © Markus Stitz

Riding a Tern Orox S12 e-cargo bike equipped with two 800Wh Bosch batteries, studded 45NRTH Dillinger tyres and full winter luggage, the bike weighs around 55 kilograms when fully loaded. While the motor assistance makes long distances possible — up to 130 kilometres on the longest day — the weight adds its own challenges on snow and ice.

To prepare for the trip, Stitz spent weeks testing gear and riding in sub-zero conditions. He practised handling heavy loads in snow, fitted and tested studded tyres himself, and carried full winter camping equipment as a safety backup, even though he ultimately stayed indoors throughout the journey.

The rewards in winter are greater than in any other season. © Markus Stitz

“For this trip, I left very little to chance,” he explains. “When conditions leave no margin for error, preparation becomes part of the experience.”

Travelling from Hageseter in Dovre National Park towards Alvdal, Stitz experienced the full intensity of the Norwegian winter, which required the right equipment for the journey. “Cold air sinks into the valleys, and long descents amplified the exposure. I had ice building on my eyebrows and face. Ski goggles were great to protect my eyes, while layers of merino wool and winter cycling gear kept frostbite at bay.”

The biggest challenge is not battery life but human endurance. © Markus Stitz

Despite riding an electric bike, Stitz notes that the biggest challenge is not battery life but human endurance. “It was not the two batteries on my e-bike that drained much faster in the cold,” he says. “It was my personal energy levels I had to monitor more often.’

Norway’s winter infrastructure played a key role for the trip. Hostels, huts and campsites remain open even in January. ‘Places are quiet, welcoming, and well adapted to winter travel,” Stitz says. “When I arrived at Hageseter in the dark, prepared to pitch my tent, the owner instead led me to a heated hut.”

Markus Stitz discovers the joys and challenges of winter bikepacking. © Markus Stitz

While flexibility is needed on bike trips, this need is amplified for winter adventures. Each morning, Stitz checked forecasts, adapted routes along the way, and delayed booking accommodation until midday, when distances and conditions become clearer.

Even if winter cycling is far from comfortable, Stitz believes the rewards outweigh the hardship. “To say cycling in winter is always enjoyable would be a lie,” he says. “But the rewards are greater than in any other season — frozen rivers, snow-covered landscapes, and days that feel truly earned.”

The journey forms part of Stitz’s ongoing work exploring landscapes, slow travel and human resilience through cycling; combining storytelling, photography and film to capture places at their most raw and quiet.

About Markus Stitz
Markus Stitz is a route designer, filmmaker, photographer and writer based in Edinburgh. Originally from Germany, he has explored Scotland extensively since moving there in 2009. Before cycling 34,000 kilometres unsupported around the world on a single-speed mountain bike, he mapped his first long-distance route, the Capital Trail, and on his return founded Bikepacking Scotland, through which he designs bikepacking and gravel routes across the country.

He is a co-director of the Cateran Ecomuseum and founder of Dirt Dash events and the Edinburgh Dawn Patrol, as well as an accomplished ultra-endurance racer with three finishes of the Highland Trail 550 and further races in Kyrgyzstan, Morocco and Norway. His writing appears in English and German publications, and he is the author of Great British Gravel Rides, Bikepacking Scotland, Gravel Rides: Cairngorms & Perthshire and Gravel Rides: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.

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Fat Biking at its Best in the Quebec City Region for Exceptional Fatduro Pure Winter Fun https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/fat-biking-at-its-best-in-quebec-for-exceptional-fatduro-pure-winter-fun/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fat-biking-at-its-best-in-quebec-for-exceptional-fatduro-pure-winter-fun Fri, 16 Jan 2026 02:51:22 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=3856 […]]]> Winter doesn’t slow our sport down, it transforms it. The Québec City region stands out with an exceptional enduro fat biking (fatduro!) offering, recognized for its quality and consistency.

What makes the experience truly unique? A remarkable concentration of impeccably groomed trails, designed by riders specifically for fat biking, across two flagship networks: Empire 47 and Sentiers du Moulin.

Remarkable trails at Sentiers du moulin with a flagship network… © Nick Dignard

Sculpted turns, natural flow, and perfectly balanced elevation gain… Everything is in place for long, satisfying rides set against a spectacular winter backdrop. We’re willing to bet your outing will exceed expectations.

The iconic Maelstrom at Sentiers du moulin
This 16-km sector, including 10 km of true singletrack that take riders back to the roots of fat biking, delivers unique and breathtaking views throughout the ride. Highlights include the Vortex, Cathédrale, Maelstrom, Crans, and Carcajou trails, routes that will undoubtedly put your bike-handling skills to the test.

Other downhill trails are also local favourites in the SDM sector, including Super G, King Kong, Léon, and Graffiti, to name just a few.

Electric fat biking for memorable riding at Empire 47, an exceptional natural setting. © Jschpphoto

Electric fat biking (and fatduro!)
Electric fat biking opens the door to a different way of riding, just as memorable. At Empire 47, where rentals are available, this experience unfolds within an exceptional natural setting, where forested landscapes and meticulously maintained trails come together to create an accessible winter playground.

The centre features a 50-km network of trails dedicated exclusively to fat biking, including a spectacular fatduro sector spanning more than 5 km. Less effort on the climbs, more fun on the descents… That’s electric fatduro.

Escape to Vallée Bras-du-Nord for fat bike jöring. © Pascale Anctil

A winter escape in the Shannahan
Fat biking is part of the immersive winter experience offered at the Vallée Bras-du-Nord, with nearly 15 km of groomed trails in the Shannahan sector. A 4.5-km loop is designated for fat bike jöring, an option reserved for experienced riders and their canine companions.

Mont-Sainte-Anne… winter biking trails that will satisfy cyclists of all levels. ©

Mont Sainte-Anne
Mont-Sainte-Anne offers 6.4 km of winter biking trails that will satisfy cyclists of all levels. The trails are located in the area of the Mont-Sainte-Anne cross-country ski centre, 7 km east of the alpine ski resort.

All departures and arrivals are made from the St-Julien Main Lodge and provide access to a heated shelter: the Marie-Josée. Most trails are fat bike only, but a few ones are shared with XC skiing and snowshoeing. We invite all riders to behave and respect each other!

For more information please visit here.

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More Than 14,000 Cyclists Have Enjoyed the Trans Dinarica – Third Version of Navigation Package is Available https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/more-than-14000-cyclists-have-enjoyed-the-trans-dinarica-third-version-of-navigation-package-is-available/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=more-than-14000-cyclists-have-enjoyed-the-trans-dinarica-third-version-of-navigation-package-is-available Sun, 21 Dec 2025 23:39:19 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=3787 […]]]> In a year and a half, the Trans Dinarica — a 5,500-km cycle route traversing the entire the Western Balkans that was launched in 2024 — has attracted approximately 14,000 cyclists from all over the world. This popularity has coincided with the Trans Dinarica team’s constant mission to make sure cyclists have the most up-to-date information.

The 5,500-km Trans Dinarica cycle route has attracted approximately 14,000 cyclists from all over the world. ©

With this goal in mind, the Trans Dinarica’s team — in collaboration with cyclists riding the TD — has launched the third version of route’s navigation package in November 2025.

After investigating the numbers and cyclist responses (over the last 18 months) that assisted with the creation of the new “nav pack,” the TD team, part of the Good Trail route-development company, has found that travelers are most enthusiastic about nature and hospitality. They alsosee there are still many opportunities for developing local services and infrastructure.

Particularly lacking is the accessibility of public transport in the countries south of Slovenia. The Trans Dinarica Cycle Route, launched in July 2024, crosses eight countries: Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Serbia.

The route has become a global hit with accounts of the route’s success reaching nearly a billion readers. ©

The route has become a global hit with accounts of the route’s success reaching nearly a billion readers in publications such as The New York Times, BBC, CNN, Lonely Planet, and Der Spiegel to name just a few.

Among the important pieces of information gleaned from the Trans Dinarica’s first 18 months:

• Germans, Americans, and Britons are the most frequent users. On average, cyclists completed nine stages per ride, and 90 percent wish to return and recommend the route to friends.
• Cyclists spend an average of 75 euros per day, with an indirect, sustainable, economic impact on the region of 20 million euros.
• The creators of the route, with the help of feedback from cyclists, have prepared Trans Dinarica 3.0, the third upgrade of the navigation package.
• The strongest advantage of the entire area is the beautiful nature and the hospitality of the locals, while local services adapted to cyclists and public infrastructure sometimes fall short; the biggest challenge for foreign travellers is finding a reliable public transport option.

The main ‘co-creators’ have now become the users—the cyclists. ©

Cyclists are the main source of information for Trans Dinarica 3.0
After the GoodTrail team spent two years exploring the terrain themselves before the route’s launch, the main ‘co-creators’ have now become the users—the cyclists.

“The information we receive from cyclists is invaluable to us and to all future users,” says Matevž Hribar, who manages communication with cyclists and edits social networks. The strong cycling community, which began to build up during the development phase, is a great advantage of Trans Dinarica: the Facebook group dedicated to sharing experiences already has over 2,400 members, and more than 900 messages have been sent in the user email support. “They alert us to details such as the absence of ATMs on certain sections, or a changed road surface. In Albania, for example, only three percent of the original fourteen percent of gravel sections remain — that much road has been asphalted in the last three years.”

Trans Dinarica team’s constant mission to make sure cyclists have the most up-to-date information. ©

With the help of all the collected information, the team published the third version of the navigation package this November. “For the latest version, Trans Dinarica 3.0, we literally clicked through every meter of the more than 5,500 kilometres of the route, incorporating cyclist corrections and publicly available data,” says Matija Klanjšček, Trans Dinarica’s chief cartographer: “We have added new points of interest, of which there are now more than 3,100. It is great to see that local providers, owners of accommodations or campsites, who are already feeling a greater presence of cycling tourists in the area, are contacting us and know how to adapt to their needs.”

The direct economic impact on destinations and providers along the route is 9.5 million euros, and the indirect impact is around 20 million (the average multiplier for the tourism sector in the region is around 2).

This was the impetus for the establishment of the new project Transdinarica2, which is already underway and whose partner is also the Slovenian Institute Factory of Sustainable Tourism Ljubljana. As part of the Interreg Danube Region Programme, co-financed by the European Union, the project aims to improve the accessibility of the Trans Dinarica cycling route and to achieve better social and economic effects at the local level.

Read more here.

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New Zealand’s Popular Great Rides Pump Billions of Dollars into Economy https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/new-zealands-popular-great-rides-pump-billions-of-dollars-into-economy/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-zealands-popular-great-rides-pump-billions-of-dollars-into-economy Sun, 30 Nov 2025 00:01:14 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=3716 […]]]> New Zealand’s iconic cycle trails are boosting local economies to the tune of $1.28 billion a year, according to new research.

“Mountains to Sea” in Whanganui National Park… riders on the “Bridge to Nowhere”. © Martyn Davies

The 2025 evaluation of the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand released today show visitor spending attributed to the 23 Great Rides jumped a massive 35% for the year ending June 2025, compared to the same period in 2021.

“We saw cycle tourism grow during Covid, but our latest report shows our Great Rides continue to grow in popularity and are having a massive economic impact for regional New Zealand,” says NZCT chief executive Janet Purdey.

Domestic visitor spending makes up 72 percent of the $1.28 billion total, and international visitor spend 28 percent.

Numbers on the Great Rides have surged dramatically too, with more than 2.5 million trips (cyclists and pedestrians) recorded for the year ending June 2025. That’s up 18 percent on 2021 figures.

International visitor numbers make up about 300,000 of those trips. In fact, 17 percent of trail visitors are international.

Scenic Lake Dunstan Trail known for its stunning views. © Geoff Marks

“The figures overall paint a clear picture that our Great Rides are having a huge impact economically, environmentally and socially,” says Purdey.

“We are providing world-class cycling experiences that highlight our importance in the New Zealand tourism landscape, and that Government investment is well-spent.”

The Government puts $8m a year towards the 23 Great Rides, which showcase Aotearoa’s epic landscapes, history and culture, through the International Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

That money goes towards trail development, maintenance, and promotion, while additional funding for the likes of trail development varies from year to year.

The direct economic benefit is also reflected in the latest visitor nights data in accommodation near the Great Rides. Visitor nights tally 4.5 million in the year ending June 2025, up 25 percent from 2021 statistics.

New Zealand’s iconic Great Rides are boosting local economies to the tune of $1.28 billion a year. ©

On a per-visitor basis, spending has increased from $892 in 2021 to more than $960 in 2025 too. “Our riders are spending more on accommodation, food, beverage and hospitality providers near the Great Rides, along with off-trail activities and cycle tour operators,” says Purdey.

Not surprisingly, the number of businesses servicing the Great Rides has jumped markedly, from 1600 in 2021 to more than 2900 for the year ending June 2025.

Bike tour operator Cycle Journeys entered the market 24 years ago and in that time owner Geoff Gabites has seen the industry flourish.

“The objective of the Great Rides was to create a world-class cycle infrastructure and customer experience that would attract riders. We are now seeing this happen – in significant numbers both domestically and internationally,” he says.

“This may well be the best tourism investment the Government has ever made as we now see rapidly growing numbers of international riders seeking out New Zealand as a key cycle destination.”

The impact of the Great Rides doesn’t stop there – the latest report shows health benefits resulting from the trails totaling $696 million. Many riders reported improved mental health, physical fitness, and greater appreciation of their natural environment.

Hawke’s Bay on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. ©

The positive impact the Great Rides have on the environment is reflected in the latest report too. Collectively, the 23 Great Rides have planted almost 450,000 native trees, shrubs, flaxes or rushes, fenced almost 120km of waterways and laid 2700 traps for pests.

Much of this work has been done by trail managers and their communities, says Purdey. In fact, the latest figures show volunteers across the network total more than 560, contributing more than $620,000 in value.

  “Our Great Rides continue to deliver on multiple fronts. Not only are they a compelling example of sustainable tourism in action, but they are also a catalyst for driving economic development and bringing communities together.”

For more information please visit here.

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E-Alps Adventures: Exploring the Amazing Swiss Alps by eBike With a Touch of Quebec https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/e-alps-adventures-exploring-the-amazing-swiss-alps-by-ebike-with-a-touch-of-quebec/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=e-alps-adventures-exploring-the-amazing-swiss-alps-by-ebike-with-a-touch-of-quebec Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:50:12 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=3669 […]]]> (Switzerland) Adventure tourism is soaring to new heights with E-Alps, a pioneering Swiss business specializing in exploring the Alps…by e-bike! This bold vision is the brainchild of seasoned Quebec entrepreneur Georges Saad, who has successfully built many businesses from the ground up in his home province.

Iconic Matterhorn peak near Zermatt, Switzerland… e-bike adventures of a lifetime. © Jeremie Carron

Since launching seven years ago, E-Alps has become the largest electric mountain bike tour company in Switzerland. Its goal? To make spectacular Alpine trails accessible to as many people as possible with adventures built on fun, comfort, discovery, and a touch of luxury. “It’s not a race; it’s a complete immersive experience,” notes Georges Saad. “On average, we ride around 50 kilometres a day with an 1,800 metre elevation gain. But the emphasis is always on a sense of active tourism and wonder. And the joy of e-bikes is that anyone can do it!”

Lac-Moiry… E-Alps has become the largest electric mountain bike tour company in Switzerland. © Louis-Mathieu Godin

An all-inclusive, high-altitude adventure
With nine packages available, including their signature Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt, e-Alps has options covering several iconic regions in the Alps. Each expedition is led by multilingual guides, and includes first-rate logistical support (support vehicles, bike maintenance and recharging, quality accommodations, and local fine dining). What makes it all possible is the e-Alps fleet of 120 electric mountain bikes, updated every year.

Barrage_de_Moiry… nine packages available, including their signature Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt. © Jeremie Carron

Since e-bikes have adjustable electric assistance, these experiences are accessible to riders of any skill level, making it a perfect trip for groups of all kinds—friends, coworkers, and families can all enjoy the e-Alps adventure together.

Quebec: A core part of e-Alps’ DNA
Georges Saad was born in Lebanon but grew up in Quebec, where he founded the new media company Spektrum in 2008. Priding himself on an innovative, people-centred business model (including a 4-day work week well ahead of the curve), he has built a network of businesses based in Quebec City’s Saint-Roch neighbourhood. In 2019, he moved to Switzerland with his Swiss wife, while keeping a pied-à-terre in Quebec’s capital city.

Tour-du-mont-blanc… memorable experiences while maintaining deep respect for the environment and the community. © Jeremie Carron

“Like all my previous ventures, this project is focused on people and a model of slow, steady growth. Our goal is to give travellers an authentic, memorable experience of a lifetime, while maintaining deep respect for the environment and the community,” he says.

And that’s just what E-Alps is doing with its signature combination of active lifestyle, local flavours, logistical excellence, and of course breathtaking panoramic views.

Breathtaking panoramic views… © Louis-Mathieu Godin

Appealing to the North American market
Today, nearly 50% of E-Alps’ client base hails from North America, and most are over the age of 40. The business employs a permanent staff of three and up to 30 seasonal guides, and is growing steadily. It also partners with tourist regions to generate local economic spin-offs and creates customized packages for corporate clients.

A bonus for Quebec travellers Private groups of 4 to 5 people can now reserve the dates of their choice, without restrictions, and expect a warm welcome in their chosen language as they pedal off on the adventure of a lifetime.

Read more here.

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Overland – New Film by Markus Stitz Launches New Coast-to-Coast Bikepacking Route in Scotland https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/overland-new-film-by-markus-stitz-launches-new-coast-to-coast-bikepacking-route-in-scotland/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=overland-new-film-by-markus-stitz-launches-new-coast-to-coast-bikepacking-route-in-scotland Fri, 29 Aug 2025 18:03:41 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=3333 […]]]> A new short film, Overland, has been released by Bikepacking Scotland with the support of waterproof sock specialist DexShell. The nine-minute film, available on YouTube, follows an overland journey across the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park from east to west and introduces a new 177km-bikepacking route.

A new short film Overland, released by Bikepacking Scotland, introduces a new 177km-bikepacking route. ©

Devised by adventure cyclist and author Markus Stitz, the route runs from Culross on the Firth of Forth to Kilcreggan on the Firth of Clyde. Designed for gravel and mountain bikes, it is now available here.

An amazing journey… ©

Stitz explains his inspiration: “I think the Scotland I have experienced in the last 16 years living here has always been an interesting place in terms of the weather. Yes, there are blue sunny skies every now and then. But there’s also the other side of the country: when it’s raining, when the fog is rolling in, when the clouds are coming over the mountains. I really love to portray that side of Scotland, and that’s what the new film is about.”

Designed for gravel and mountain bikes… ©

He adds: “With the right gear, it’s totally fine to go out bikepacking pretty much in any season in Scotland. For me, there’s a massive fascination to that wetter side of Scotland too. It’s super green. It’s mystic. It’s majestic – and I really enjoy cycling in those conditions.”

Markus Stitz en route… ©

Route highlights
The coast-to-coast route begins in Culross, Fife, and is accessible by public transport at both start and finish. From April to October the free Inner Forth Bike Bus runs on Sundays to nearby Newmills, while train and bus connections from Dunfermline or Rosyth provide year-round access. At the western end, a passenger ferry connects Kilcreggan with Gourock, offering onward travel by ferry to Dunoon or by train to Glasgow Central.

The route showcases the diversity of Scotland’s landscapes and heritage. ©

The route showcases the diversity of Scotland’s landscapes and heritage: expansive woodlands, glittering lochs, fast-rolling gravel tracks, late medieval tower houses, Roman hillforts, and welcoming towns. The journey is best undertaken from Easter to late October, when the Loch Lomond water bus operates. Outside of this period, riders are advised to leave the route at Aberfoyle and follow NCN 7 to Balloch, then continue via the John Muir Way to Helensburgh and the Wild About Argyll Trail to Garelochhead.

In print and on the trail
Overland also features in Gravel Rides Loch Lomond & The Trossachs and Argyll, Stitz’s forthcoming guidebook showcasing 15 of the region’s best gravel cycling routes. Due to be published in November 2025 by Vertebrate Publishing, the book covers routes from 16 to 177km, ranging from accessible day rides to adventurous multi-day trips across some of Scotland’s most spectacular and remote landscapes.

The new coast-to-coast route also offers a unique way to travel to or from the Dunoon Dirt Dash, an annual bikepacking event taking place on 27–28 September 2025. More details are available here.

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Véloroute Gourmande is a Remarkable Cycling Adventure that Will Keep You Coming Back for More https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/veloroute-gourmande-is-a-remarkable-cycling-adventure-that-will-keep-you-coming-back-for-more/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=veloroute-gourmande-is-a-remarkable-cycling-adventure-that-will-keep-you-coming-back-for-more Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:15:50 +0000 https://cyclinggreatescapes.com/?p=3270 […]]]> Recently named on the New York Times’ list of 52 places to go in 2023 the Véloroute Gourmande is a remarkable 235km cycling adventure connecting Montréal and Sherbrooke.

Véloroute Gourmande is a remarkable 235km cycling adventure connecting Montréal and Sherbrooke. ©

Discover the fabulous regions of Montérégie and the Eastern Townships where you can explore close to 130 epicurean stops including breweries, restaurants, wineries and gourmet shops.

New this year are e-bike recharging outlets along the route that can also be found on the website via a charging symbol.

Explore close to 130 epicurean stops including breweries, restaurants, wineries and gourmet shops. ©

The Véloroute is divided into four sections, varying in length from 45km to 70km, but you can explore at your own pace.

The first section is from Montréal to Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu (45km) where you’ll ride along the Chambly Canal, you can enjoy the view of boats sailing alongside you. Then it’s a 50km jaunt to Granby (50km), where along the way you can visit the Farnham Ale & Lager Microbrewery and the Fromagerie des Cantons for everything needed for a picnic.

The Véloroute is divided into four sections but you can explore at your own pace. ©

The next 70km section takes you to Orford and en route you’ll be enticed to make a pit stop at one of the relaxing swimming areas that offer watercraft rentals or explore the historic Chemin des Diligences.

The final route from Orford to Sherbrooke (60km) features Lake Memphremagog and Lake Massawippi and don’t miss out on enjoying a delicious cold beer at Le Lion d’Or, Québec’s first microbrewery where they still use a traditional hand-brewing method.

Enjoy the comforts of home after a day in the saddle… ©

With 80+ lodging options, from campgrounds to hotels, motels, inns and B&Bs, you can enjoy the comforts of home after a day in the saddle, and they also offer first-rate, door-to-door shuttle service and all-inclusive trips as well.

Read more about Véloroute Gourmande here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes 2025 featuring Véloroute Gourmande and many more spots here.

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