Simple answer: The one that inspires you the most!
Time, fitness or money shouldn’t be a barrier to a once in a lifetime experience. We always seem to make time for the things that are important to us and an Epic tour, even if it’s a month-long, is no different. Begin with the adventure that speaks to you the loudest and then contact us about how to make it happen.

Long answer: While all our Epics are just that, epic in nature, they do differ.

Duration: Our Epics vary from a bit over 2 weeks to over a month.
Like the look of an Epic, but can’t find the time to ride the whole tour? Each Epic is broken down into at least 2 stages so you can pick out a Mini-Epic that’s right for you. Perhaps even returning to complete the full Tour at a later time.

Difficulty and Length: Ride 1200km/745 miles (shorter single stage options) and remain within one country or ride over 3500km/2200miles by riding across Europe. We classify the difficulty of each tour (and stage if different from the overall tour) on distance, terrain and time in the saddle. The symbol we use for our grading system is the espresso cup. Our easiest tours are denoted by a single cup and our hardest by four cups. Click here to discover what cup rider you are or will train to become.

Where and When: We run our tours through 30 countries, on 5 continents and in both hemispheres. We aim to run each Epic in the Goldilocks period for that part of the world; not too hot and not too cold. There is only a couple of months in the year where we don’t run any scheduled tours so if your escaping the cold or searching out a coastal breeze we will likely have a tour running for you.

History and Culture: Our Epics are more than just a bike tour. They are historical journeys that connect the present with the past, whether it’s a famous figure like Hannibal and his army of Elephants, a period like the division of Europe with the Iron Curtain or a class of people like the Samurai. Each Epic is an immersion into where we travel. The hotels in which we stay, the characters we meet, the food we eat, the wine we drink and the history we see are all chosen to give you a true sense of place.

To view, all our Epics explore the website or check out our Digital Catalogue which you can download and view offline click here.

Found the right tour, but want to make changes? Contact us for custom tours and departures.

We hope to see you on the road soon!

What’s included in the tour?

We have endeavoured to make our tour offerings among the most inclusive in the bike tourism industry so you are not faced with extra expenses once you join us on tour.

Standard Inclusions

• Bed and Breakfast accommodation
• Picnic lunches – except for rest days
• All evening meals – except for rest days
• Ride and Seek Jersey or T-shirt
• mid-week laundry service
• Post-ride recovery snack table
• Protein and Energy bars

Since most things are included, perhaps an easier way to answer this question is to look at what is not included. What is not included – Airfares, Airport Transfers, Travel Insurance, and Alcoholic beverages.

We do not include bike hire in the price either, as many of you prefer to bring your own. If you wish to rent, our fleet has a range of high-end bikes. You can see the details here Bike fleet

Accommodations

We have carefully selected the places we stay in based on their ‘personality’ and the hospitality of the hosts. Be it Paradors in Spain, a Chateau in France, or Agriturismi in Italy, we seek to connect you with the places we travel in, through the accommodations we choose.

Meals

We immerse you in the culture of the areas that we visit and this is very much reflected by the menus that we present on tour. Whether it be an end-of-stage gala meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant or a buffet smorgasbord we seek to provide a sense of place through the food and wine we choose for you. We always try to dine as early as is culturally possible and work with the restaurants we use to keep the service brisk. 

We are very adept at accommodating dietary needs and work closely with the restaurants we choose to ensure they adhere to your requests. 

Expert Support

Long before the tour begins our Trip Specialists and operations teams are busy planning the logistics of all aspects of your tour. The routes are meticulously scouted by the guide teams and our  tour materials are the best in the business. We then weave the layers of historical and cultural context to immerse you in the places you travel through. 

On tour the guides will support you with navigation, safety, mechanics, language skills, charm and local knowledge. Allowing you to simply turn the pedals at your own pace and soak up the ambience of your surroundings.

 

Tour Structure

Our Epic tours follow a standard format. Your first day will include a warm-up ride, whether you’re starting at the beginning of an Epic tour, or joining us for a single stage. You’ll lunch with the guides who will give you a rundown of the tour ahead. You’ll then have a short ride to ensure your bike has traveled well, or if you are riding a hire bike, it fits you and is comfortable.

The next morning the cycling begins! The format for each ride day is similar, times are approximate.

7:30 am Breakfast
8:30 am Morning brief 
9:00 am Ride out
11:00 am Coffee and snack break
13:00 Picnic or restaurant lunch on route
15:00-16:00 Arrive at next hotel
16:00-19:00 Free time to explore or rest
19:00 Pre-dinner drink and brief
19:30 Dinner

Rest days allow riders to explore the town we are staying in and get the essentials, such as the week’s laundry, done. For this reason, we try to stay in interesting towns which have all the practical facilities available. This doesn’t mean you aren’t free to take your bike out for a spin or that you cannot take a rest on any other day. 

We look forward to seeing you on the road soon! 

Hey there, Ride and Seeker! Let’s chat about packing for your upcoming journey with us.

Our Epic Adventures are seriously amazing trips, but they do involve some tricky logistics – especially when it comes to luggage and bike gear. We’re not trying to be the packing police, but after years of running these tours, we’ve figured out what works best for everyone.

Space in our vehicles is pretty limited, and we’ve gotta think about our awesome guides who’ll be loading and unloading your stuff throughout the trip (their backs will thank you!).

We typically run our tours with two vans, but given that the vans serve as our bike workshop, baggage courier, sag wagon, lunch restaurant and taxi service, among an array of other functions, space is of a premium.

We want to keep things flexible and fun, but a few guidelines help make the adventure smoother for the whole group. Check out the details below so you know exactly what to bring along for the ride!

Your Main Luggage

Bring just one suitcase or duffel per person, please! We ask everyone to keep it under 23kg (about 50lbs) – think airline checked bag rules.

Your guides will appreciate your cooperation more than you know when they’re playing luggage Jenga every morning. Thanks for helping us keep things running smoothly!

Day Bag

The day bag is on us. All guests will receive a branded drawstring bag designed to comfortably fit everything you might need during the ride day and will be stored in the back of the ride support van. If you have received one of our Scicon rain bags previously you are welcome to bring this along as your day bag.

So, in conclusion, one main piece of luggage will suffice, and we provide the day bag.

Foldable Bike Cases

We can only accommodate foldable bike cases on our tours. Those rigid hard cases might offer great protection, but they’re absolute space hogs in our vehicles, and honestly, shipping them ahead has become a logistical nightmare these days.

The good news? There are some seriously impressive foldable bike cases on the market now! Brands like Evoc and Scicon make soft cases that offer excellent protection during travel, but then collapse down to a fraction of their size once your bike is built up. These genius designs give your bike the safe journey it deserves without commandeering half our van space for the entire tour.

Some of our favourites include:

>The Evoc Bike Travel Bag Pro (collapses to about 1/3 its original size)
>Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 (folds into itself when empty)
>Pika Packworks EEP (folds flat for easy storage)

If you have questions about specific bike case models or need advice on the best option for your ride, just give us a shout before your trip!

The ‘Classic’

And don’t overlook the classic cardboard bike box, folks! These old-school champions are still a fantastic option if you know how to pack your bike properly. The humble cardboard box has been protecting bikes in transit for decades, and for good reason – they’re lightweight, surprisingly sturdy, and get the job done without fancy features or hefty price tags. Plus, they score major points in the sustainability department!

Here’s why we love them:

> We’ll fold down your cardboard box at the start of the tour and safely store it
> At the end of your adventure, we’ll help reassemble it for your journey home
> Your environmental credentials stay firmly on point with this recyclable option

Many local bike shops are happy to give you a box for free (or at minimal cost) when they receive new bikes. Just make sure to grab one a few days before your trip so you have time to pack properly, or better yet, ask your local bike shop to pack the bike for you. Our guides will then be at hand to help reassemble the bike at the other end and pack it up at the end of the tour.

Bike Bags in Japan

 On our tours in Japan, we store bike bags and boxes at the airport hotel during the tour. So we have fewer sizing restrictions, as they do not need to fit in the vans.

It’s worth noting that travelling on trains with your bike box is very difficult. If you are travelling through Japan before or after your tour, you can arrange to store your bike box at airport storage or at the hotel if you have a booking either side of your travel.

The answer is a categorical no! We pride ourselves on enabling you to ride at your own pace. Our van and bike guide support is structured to this end and with meticulously researched routes uploaded onto GPS units, we are very adept at managing a broad rider spread.

We find that with designated coffee and lunch spots throughout the day the spread will ebb and flow but we are well versed in riders coming in at different times and actively encourage that to be the case. Whatever your ride style and ability we will facilitate you riding the tour at a pace that suits you.

If you do like riding in a group you’ll typically find other riders in the group that roll at a pace that you feel comfortable with. That often becomes your own mini peloton during the course of the tour. One of the undoubted joys of these group tours is the opportunity to meet and ride with others but that choice is yours to make.

Another element of being able to ride at your own pace is that you don’t have to wait for your fellow riders. You are free to go as fast as you see fit and there is no requirement to stop at the top of cols for the backmarkers which some companies insist on. Grab that ‘col’ photo and then keep rolling.

Our tours are imbued with a sense of discovery and as such we actively encourage you to ‘smell the flowers’ along the way. Whether that means you are an avid photographer, a gourmet who wishes to take your time over one of our picnic lunches, or a coffee connoisseur the choice is yours as to how to negotiate the A to B of any given day.

So, you’ve chosen your Ride and Seek tour—great choice! The next step is confirming your place by making a payment. Since our guests come from all over the world, and our tours are priced in euros, we’ve created this guide to make your payment process as smooth as possible.

What Currencies Do We Accept?

While Ride and Seek is an Australian-registered business, most of our tours run in Europe and are priced in euros (EUR). Thanks to our partnership with Airwallex, we can also accept payment in the following currencies:

• EUR – Euro
• AUD – Australian Dollar
• USD – US Dollar
• GBP – British Pound
• CAD – Canadian Dollar
• NZD – New Zealand Dollar

You can pay us locally in your own currency without international transfer fees – easy and convenient.

Our Preferred Payment Method: Bank Transfer

The best way to pay is via bank transfer. Here’s why:

• It’s secure and reliable
• In most cases, it avoids international transfer fees
• It helps us keep our tour prices down (no credit card processing fees)

We provide dedicated bank details for each of the supported currencies, so you can usually make a local transfer without any hidden charges. Our business address and bank details can be found on your invoice. 

A Note for Our US Guests

Some US guests encounter issues when trying to transfer funds to our USD account, as Ride and Seek is not registered as a domestic US business. If your banking app or online banking doesn’t support local transfers to an Australian-owned account, here are your best options:

1. Visit Your Local Bank Branch 
   Tellers at your bank can often override the business address issue and help you process the transfer in person.
2. Use a Currency Transfer Service
3. Platforms like Wise, Revolut, OFX, or Xe are easy to use and reliable. If you’re already using one of these services, just let us know and we’ll provide the appropriate bank details.
4. Pay in AUD to Our Australian Account
   As an Australian-registered business, we can always accept payment in Australian dollars to our AUD account. This is often the smoothest option when other methods don’t work. Let us know if you’d prefer to pay by international transfer to our Australian account. We’ll convert your invoice (using XE FX rates) and send you the account details you need.

Note: All currency conversion and bank transfer fees must be covered by the payer.

Can I Pay by Credit Card?

Yes, we do accept payment by credit card, but please note that we pass on the credit card processing fee to the guest.

Many guests are happy to cover this fee because their credit cards offer added benefits such as:

• Travel insurance coverage
• Cashback rewards
• Frequent flyer or member points
• Fraud protection
• Payment flexibility
  

If you’d like to pay by card, simply contact us and we’ll advise on how to proceed, including the applicable fee.

What Happens After I Pay?

Once you’ve made your transfer:

1. Send us a quick confirmation (a screenshot or payment advice is perfect).
2. We’ll match it to your booking and send a formal receipt once it’s confirmed.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

International payments can be a bit daunting, but we’re always happy to help. If you’re unsure of the best way to pay or your bank encounters any issues, just get in touch, and we’ll guide you through the process.

Ride and Seek Bicycle Adventures

Sarah@rideandseek.com, Office@rideandseek.com

One of the first things cyclists notice in Japan is how considered everything feels. From the perfectly positioned roadside mirrors that let you see around tight corners to the smooth, well-marked roads that wind through mountains and villages, Japan’s infrastructure seems purpose-built for safe, enjoyable riding. Every detail — from the clear signage to the thoughtful placement of rest stops and vending machines— reflects the country’s deep respect for order and consideration for others.

Cycling is also genuinely respected here, both as a form of recreation and as a serious sport. Whether you’re pedalling through a small town or cresting a mountain pass, locals often wave, smile, or even cheer you on. There’s a sense of shared appreciation for the effort and the journey — a cultural warmth that makes every encounter memorable.

And while many people picture Japan as a land of neon lights and bustling cities, the reality for cyclists is quite the opposite. Once you leave the urban centres, you’ll find yourself in vast, remote landscapes — quiet mountain valleys, untouched coastal roads, and rural villages where time seems to slow down. It’s in these places that Japan reveals its quieter, more contemplative side — the Japan of forest shrines, rice terraces, and winding roads that seem to lead straight into the clouds.

The Spirit of the Samurai on Two Wheels

Our Samurai Collection tours through Japan are designed to immerse riders in the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty. These journeys trace the paths of Japan’s legendary warriors — from the ancient castles and temples of Kyoto to the volcanic landscapes of Kyushu — blending epic cycling with deep cultural discovery.

Each route has been carefully crafted to reflect the essence of the samurai spirit: discipline, respect, and harmony with nature. You’ll ride through serene cedar forests, past mirror-like rice paddies, and along coastal roads where the sea breeze carries whispers of centuries past. Japan’s landscapes and traditions are deeply shaped by the legacy of the samurai — warriors who valued discipline, honour, and harmony with nature. Their influence can still be felt today, from the quiet dignity of rural villages to the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Japanese culture. Riding through these regions, you trace the paths once travelled by samurai, where every temple, castle, and mountain pass tells a story of courage and devotion.

The photo above captures the remarkable Shimanami Kaido, a highlight featured on both our Shikoku and Kyushu itineraries. This extraordinary route stretches for around 70 kilometres, linking Japan’s main island of Honshu with Shikoku via a chain of six smaller islands, each connected by spectacular suspension bridges that soar above the Seto Inland Sea. It’s a ride that perfectly encapsulates Japan’s blend of natural beauty and engineering brilliance — with panoramic sea views, quiet coastal roads, and charming island communities that welcome cyclists with open arms. Along the way, you can stop for fresh seafood, visit local art installations, or simply pause to take in the sweeping vistas from one of the many viewpoints. The Shimanami Kaido isn’t just a route — it’s a celebration of Japan’s coastal culture and one of the most unforgettable cycling experiences in the world.

A Culinary Journey as Rich as the Ride

The food in Japan is every bit as memorable as the cycling. Multi-course kaiseki dinners are works of art — seasonal, delicate, and deeply connected to the local landscape. Our Japanese guides are masters at explaining each dish, turning every meal into an experience that nourishes both body and soul.

And it’s not just fine dining — even the simplest roadside stop can surprise you. A steaming bowl of ramen after a long climb, fresh sushi at a seaside market, or a convenience store onigiri (rice ball) eaten beside a mountain stream — every bite feels earned, and every flavour tells a story.

Lunchtime in Japan is an adventure in itself. Whether you’re ducking into a bustling noodle bar for a steaming bowl of udon or ramen, or sampling regional specialties at a local diner, every stop offers a taste of Japan’s rich culinary landscape. Our guides are always on hand to help you navigate the menus and introduce you to local favourites — from hearty rice bowls to delicate tempura. And then there are the convenience stores — true wonders to behold. With their fresh sushi rolls, perfectly brewed coffee, and shelves of neatly packaged snacks, they turn even a quick roadside stop into a delight.

Everything Just Works

Getting to and from our ride start points is part of the adventure, and in Japan, that often means boarding the legendary Shinkansen — the bullet train. Sleek, silent, and always on time, it’s a marvel of precision engineering and a symbol of Japan’s commitment to punctuality. From the moment you arrive, there’s a reassuring sense that everything simply works as it should. Trains depart to the minute, luggage arrives exactly where it’s meant to, and transitions from one stage of the journey to the next are seamless. It all adds to the calm confidence that defines traveling — and cycling — in Japan.

Everything about Japan on two wheels also just works. Vending machines appear like friendly companions even in the most remote mountain passes, offering cold drinks and snacks when you need them most. Locals greet you with warm smiles and genuine curiosity, often cheering you on as you pass through their towns.

There’s a sense of quiet wonder in the way Japan blends modern efficiency with timeless tradition. One moment you’re riding past sleek bullet trains; the next, you’re pedalling through a centuries-old village where time seems to stand still.

Highlights of the Ride and Seek Samurai Collection

Our Samurai Collection represents the most expansive and diverse cycling program in Japan — a journey that captures the country’s full geographic and cultural spectrum. Each stage offers its own distinctive rhythm and reward:

• The Shikoku Pilgrimage: Follow the ancient 88-temple route, cycling through tranquil countryside, sacred shrines, and coastal villages that embody Japan’s spiritual heart.
• Ride Across Japan: Traverse the country from coast to coast, connecting its iconic regions and discovering the contrasts between bustling cities and peaceful rural landscapes.
• Mt. Fuji and the Five Lakes: Experience Japan’s most famous peak up close — climbing and circling the slopes of Mt. Fuji while taking in breathtaking views and pristine lakeside roads.
• The Kii Peninsula and Kumano Kodo: Explore the UNESCO-listed pilgrimage trails of the Kii Peninsula, where misty forests and historic shrines tell stories of devotion and endurance.
• The Wild North of Hokkaido: Discover Japan’s untamed frontier — wide open roads, volcanic peaks, and sweeping farmlands that make for some of the most exhilarating riding in Asia.
• The Delights of Kyushu: Immerse yourself in the warmth of Japan’s southern island, home to hot springs, samurai-era castles, and a rich culinary heritage shaped by centuries of trade and tradition.

Each tour is fully supported by our expert team, blending precision cycling logistics with authentic cultural immersion. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of samurai or climbing toward misty mountain shrines, every day brings a new story to tell.

The Reward Awaits

No cycling journey through Japan would be complete without the ritual of the onsen — the country’s natural hot springs that have soothed body and soul for centuries. More than just a place to bathe, the onsen is a cornerstone of Japanese culture, symbolising purification, relaxation, and connection with nature. Set in stunning locations — from mountain valleys to seaside cliffs — these mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties that ease tired muscles and restore balance after a day in the saddle.

For the Japanese, visiting an onsen is as much about mindfulness as it is about recovery. The quiet atmosphere, the sound of trickling water, and the surrounding natural beauty create a sense of calm that perfectly complements the rhythm of a cycling day. The etiquette — washing carefully before entering, soaking in silence, and taking time to reflect — encourages a moment of stillness and gratitude.

After a long ride, slipping into an onsen feels like a reward and a ritual all at once. The warmth seeps into your legs, the fatigue melts away, and you’re left with a deep sense of contentment — the kind that only comes from a day well spent on the road. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploration, and an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left Japan’s shores.

Deciding to take part in a Ride and Seek tour is a commitment to high adventure; it is also a commitment to yourself, other group members, and your friends and family. It will be a memorable adventure that will extend you in unexpected ways, giving you a real quality of life experience as well as a huge amount of fun. It is fair to say that the better prepared you are for your cycling adventure, the more you will enjoy the experience.

There is no set template for training but one principle will always hold sway. This relates to being consistent with your training. There is little long-term benefit from blitzing your training blocks and then having big breaks between the blitzes. Better to work off the premise of building up your fitness over a period of time through regular riding. In the context of our multi-day tours, we also recommend incorporating back-to-back days on the bike as part of your training as a way of replicating the flow of the tours themselves.

Proper preparation will give you more enjoyment, and a  sense of achievement. Training is a big part of that preparation, but there are a few other things that are just as important. Tip number one is to negotiate with your stakeholders – family, and friends – and be open about what the trip means for you, and importantly, the time commitments involved in training prior to the event.

While we are talking about stakeholders, there is another consideration, safety, particularly when descending. I’m all in favour of enjoying the thrills of fast descents but you can have just as much fun at 80% of your maximum downhill speed as you can flat out. Descents around the world vary and are designed differently and it is easy to misjudge cornering speeds. Being a long way from home is also not the best place to let your downhill ego take control both on tour and training for one!

It’s worth thinking about the implications of being part of a group. Cycling can be a very solitary pastime but it is also a wonderful social activity. You will find that the interactions you have with the group will add a great deal to your enjoyment. A bit of give and take, mutual support both on and off the bike spread the happiness bugs and builds connections.

Science has rapidly advanced our understanding of training, however, you can train “scientifically” for your tour and still get it wrong. We need to be discerning and do the sort of training that is appropriate for our event, and that is quite possibly very different from how you might train at present. Employing a ‘coach’ with a clear understanding of how to use wattage as a guide can be invaluable. 

Each tour requires the ability to ride consecutively for up to 6 days before a rest. If you choose the Hannibal tour you will also need the ability to ride tall mountains. If Napoleon is for you, then being comfortable on longer rides with the possibility of headwinds is what you train for. And if your preference is for a 2 cup tour on the lower difficulty spectrum you will still be looking to saddle up for multiple days in a row.

A couple of things may conspire to prevent you from doing the most appropriate training. One is the tyranny of Strava! Forget personal bests and being competitive with mates. Long and slow is the way to build the sort of endurance you need to flourish on these tours. One day of intensive work in your weekly or 10-day training cycle by all means, but no more. Most of us are time-poor and we compensate by going harder. When I train for these events I plan back-to-back days on the weekend riding with slower mates.

Being comfortable on the bike for extended periods is very important. Proper bike fit, good quality nicks, stretching and core strengthening work all pay big dividends. Recent saddle design changes have led to great improvement in comfort, particularly for women.

In a Nutshell

–  Rest. This is when your body adapts to the training load and adjusts to handle higher workloads. Increasing training load without increasing rest leads to poorer performance. Plan a 4-week cycle of gradually increasing distance then have a week with 50% less riding. Increase distance in the next 4-week cycle.

– How to ride tall mountains when there are none nearby to train on?  Find some long hills, about 3- 5 minutes of climbing. Climb in a very low gear, spinning as close to 100 rpm as you can. Descend, then repeat seated but using the biggest gear you can, cadence between 55 and 60. Gradually repeat the number of efforts. Every third effort, do it standing in a big gear.

– When you get to train in the mountains, start climbing in a relatively easy gear and spin. Towards the top, try and change to a harder gear and alternate standing and sitting. Break the climb into segments and focus on riding that segment well. Monitor and observe what is going on and focus. Match your breathing with pedal strokes. Relax the upper body and smile, it works!

– Remember to taper and not arrive at the start of your tour completely smashed. Also, don’t underestimate the effect of jetlag, it will affect your performance so arrive a couple of days prior to the event if you can.  Get an aisle seat on the flight and walk/stretch often.

We are always happy to facilitate you bringing your own bike, however, we appreciate this is not always possible, so we’ve endeavored to give you the option of high-end bike hire. Below are the bikes available for rental on our Bolivar – Bogota to Cartagena Colombia Tour.

Time Alpe d’Huez X 2026 – (available in Colombia only)

Frame Type: Carbon
Wheel Size: 700c
Handlebar: Drop Bars
Drive Train: Shimano Ultegra di2 – 2x12s
Shifting: di2 Electronic
Chainrings: 50 x 34 Compact
Cassette: 11-34
Pedals: Flat Pedals standard. Bring your own pedals if you prefer and we’ll mount them.
Wheels: Mavic
Tires: 700×35
Brakes: Disc
Saddle: Options available or bring your own

Brake set-up: Left brake lever = front brake, Right brake lever = rear brake. Same as the US

Argon 18 E-bike (or similar)

Frame Type: Aluminium
Fork: Carbon
Wheel Size: 700c
Handlebar: Drop Bars
Drive Train: Shimano 105 2/11s
Chainrings: 50 x 34
Cassette: 11-34
Pedals: Flat Pedals standard. Bring your own pedals if you prefer and we’ll mount them.
Tires: 700×32 (or more)
Brakes: Disc Brakes
Saddle: Standard bike saddle or bring your own
Approx. Weight: 13Kg
Motor: Mahle Motor X35 with 250wh internal battery + 216wh external battery

Brake set-up: Left brake lever = front brake, Right brake lever = rear brake. Same as the US

Colombia has been on our radar for years, and when the time came to expand into South America—making it our sixth continent—there was no better place to start. Antarctica is the last frontier!

This guide brings together the thoughts and experiences of Beatrice and Ben to offer an insight into cycling in Colombia. With Ben, our General Manager, spending six months on the ground, he has been refining the route, inspecting hotels, and fine-tuning the details to ensure the experience meets our standards. Much of our discussion in the lead-up to this launch has focused on how perceptions of Colombia have evolved — from its turbulent past to the vibrant, safe and culturally rich destination it is today.

Beatrice’s on-the-road perspective has added another valuable layer, helping us paint a fuller picture of what cycling and travelling here truly feels like. And special thanks to Tomas, whose local knowledge, gained from more than 10 years of running bike tours in Colombia, has been instrumental in shaping the culturally immersive itinerary we have today. Together, their insights help explain why Colombia stands out as the ideal location for our first South American cycling adventure.

“Few places combine terrain, culture, and cycling heritage as naturally as Colombia. From the Andes’ high passes to the coffee country and Caribbean coast, every ride draws you into a new landscape and rhythm. Geography shapes everything here — the Andes carve through the nation’s heart, creating thousands of kilometres of roads that range from gentle rollers to lung-searing climbs. But it’s the culture that gives it soul: cycling is part of daily life, from weekend riders on the mountain passes to commuters in bustling city streets. And now, with Colombia open, safe, and welcoming, it’s the perfect time to explore it by bike.”  Ben Weigl

The guide presented below is designed to offer practical insight for anyone considering a cycling trip to Colombia, whether you’re planning your own route or joining us on our Bolivar Tour.

Why Cycle in Colombia?

Colombia rewards cyclists who appreciate variety. You might begin your morning at 2,500 metres (8,200 feet) in crisp Andean air, ride through cloud-forest terrain by midday, and finish the day in subtropical warmth.

The Andes dominate the interior, but the country also holds coastal plains, river valleys, and coffee-growing highlands that sit at ideal riding temperatures year-round. Many of these same routes once carried Simón Bolívar and his army toward independence — a reminder that Colombia’s landscapes have long been a stage for endurance, freedom, and determination.

Climate is one of the most practical reasons to ride here. Sitting near the equator, Colombia experiences seasons defined by rainfall, not temperature. The dry months — November through March and July through August — bring the most consistent conditions. Even in wetter periods, rain usually arrives in the afternoon, leaving mornings clear for riding.

“But what makes cycling in Colombia exceptional isn’t just the roads or the weather — it’s the people. Colombians wave from doorways, cheer from roadside shops, and often ride themselves. There’s a shared language around the bicycle, whether you’re passing a weekend club ride or stopping for water at a tienda where the owner asks which climb you’re tackling.” Ben Weigl

Once you leave the cities, Colombia quickly becomes remote. Long stretches of mountain road thread through farming villages, coffee plantations, and valleys where life moves at a slower pace. It’s in these quieter sections that the country reveals its spirit. 

“Cycling in Colombia is wonderful — the whole vibe encourages you to slow down and take it all in. You feel it in the way drivers interact with cyclists, giving space and respect as everyone gets on with their day. And if the sloth signs are anything to go by, this really is a country where you’re meant to take it slow and enjoy the ride.” Beatrice Jeavons

Key Cycling Regions and Tour Routes

Bogotá and Surrounds

Bogotá serves as the logical starting point for most cycling trips, and it’s where Ride & Seek’s Colombian epic begins. The city sits on a high plateau surrounded by rolling hills and peaks, and the altitude alone makes it a training ground. Every Sunday, the Ciclovía closes over 120 kilometres of city streets to cars, filling them instead with thousands of cyclists, runners, and families. It’s less a novelty and more a cultural institution.

The roads leading out of the city climb quickly. Popular routes head toward La Calera, Patios, or Guatavita, each offering expansive views once you’re above the urban sprawl. 

Villa de Leyva

Two hours north of Bogotá, Villa de Leyva offers a completely different vibe. The town itself is colonial, built around a vast cobblestone plaza that seems frozen in the 16th century. The roads leading into and out of town are quiet, winding through high-desert terrain dotted with fossils, olive groves, and Andean farmland.

The Coffee Triangle

The region known as the Coffee Triangle—roughly between Manizales, Pereira, and Armenia—sits at the heart of Colombia’s coffee culture. The roads here roll through plantations, past fincas with sweeping porches, and into small towns where world-class coffee is treated with the seriousness it deserves.

The terrain is less extreme than the high Andes, which makes it ideal for soaking in the unique landscape after some more rigorous days. The climbs are steady rather than punishing, and the descents often lead directly into towns where you can stop for lunch, walk through a market, or visit a working coffee farm.

Alto de Letras

If you’re after a real challenge, the Alto de Letras more than earns its reputation. At over 80 kilometres and rising from around 300 to 3,600 metres, it’s one of the longest paved climbs in the world. The gradient is steady, the surface good, and the landscape changes endlessly as you ride — from tropical heat at the bottom to crisp, thin air near the summit. It’s become a near-mythical ascent thanks in part to features like Simon Richardson’s GCN video, and it genuinely captures the scale and atmosphere of riding in Colombia. The ‘Braking News’ though, is that there is a NEW longest climb called Alto del Sifón, and we have chosen to ride that instead of Letras on Bolivar.

Alto del Sifón

Meet Alto del Sifón — or El Sifón as locals call it. This Tolima giant stretches to about 115 km with more than 4,700 metres of gain, putting it right at the top of the list for longest paved, uninterrupted ascents. It’s not the gradient that gets you, and it’s not a tricky road; it’s the relentless length. To grasp the scale, you’re looking at a climb over four times longer than Mont Ventoux, more than twice Mount Teide, and even beyond Mauna Kea. Alto del Sifón resets the bar: a pure endurance challenge where the real battle is staying steady, patient, and mentally switched on for hours.

We’ve set the tour up so you can ride the whole climb or just a section of it, depending on how big a day you’re after. The road has been newly paved and runs through a national park, which means you can properly get away from the traffic — something Letras simply doesn’t offer in the same way. Having scouted both routes, we’re convinced Sifón is the climb for us.

Cartagena and the Coast

Cartagena makes a fitting endpoint after days in the high mountains, trading altitude and cool air for heat, humidity, and the sound of the Caribbean. It’s also a chance to explore a popular tourism destination in its own right; expect colonial architecture, Caribbean vibes, and food that reflects centuries of coastal trade.

Cartagena’s walled old town is dense with history and energy. Cobblestone streets wind between brightly painted facades, balconies spill with bougainvillea, and shaded plazas offer a place to rest with a cold drink. The city’s food scene rivals any in South America, with fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and inventive local cooking that reflects both Caribbean and Spanish roots.

Ride & Seek’s Colombia Cycling Tour finishes here, where the country’s contrasts finally converge — mountains and coast, endurance and ease, history and celebration. Cycling through this landscape, you can still feel that same spirit of independence and pride that defines Colombia today.

Cycling Culture and Daily Life on the Road

Cuisine is a big part of what makes Colombia an unforgettable cycling destination. 

Roadside vendors sell empanadas — fried pockets of dough filled with meat or potatoes — that make ideal mid-ride fuel. Arepas, the corn cakes that show up at nearly every meal, come in dozens of regional variations. Fruit is everywhere: mango, papaya, lulo, guanábana, often sold from carts or small shops along the route.

Coffee, naturally, is a ritual. Even the smallest tienda will have a thermos ready, and the quality is consistently high. It’s common to stop mid-morning for a tinto — a small, strong cup — served in a plastic or ceramic mug that you return before continuing.

Downtime between rides reveals another side of Colombia. Markets are practical rather than polished, filled with produce, textiles, and household goods instead of souvenirs. Town plazas fill in the evening as families walk, vendors set up carts, and music drifts from nearby cafés. 

Safety, Infrastructure, and Local Support

Colombia has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure over the past two decades. Major roads include wide shoulders, clear signage, and regular maintenance. In tourist regions, police often patrol routes specifically to support visiting cyclists. The country’s reputation has shifted, and the reality on the ground reflects that change.

That said, altitude requires respect. Bogotá and much of the Andes sit above 2,500 meters, and even fit riders need time to acclimate. Headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath are common in the first 48 hours. Hydration matters more at elevation, and pacing yourself on early climbs prevents unnecessary suffering later.

Local riding etiquette is straightforward. Drivers generally give cyclists space, especially on mountain roads where they’re used to sharing the pavement. Hand signals are understood, and it’s common practice to acknowledge drivers who wait patiently behind you on narrow sections.

When to Go and What to Expect

The dry seasons—November through March and July through August—offer the most reliable riding conditions. Mornings are typically clear, with afternoon clouds or rain appearing predictably enough that you can plan around them. 

Temperatures vary by elevation, but daytime highs in the mountains range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, while coastal areas stay warmer. Even the rainy season can be an excellent time to immerse yourself in Colombia’s best cycling; it rarely rains all day and you’ll have less crowds on main roads and lush surrounding landscapes. 

Regional climates differ significantly. Bogotá can be cool and overcast. The Coffee Triangle tends toward warm days and mild evenings. Cartagena is tropical, with heat and humidity that require adjustment if you’ve been at altitude for weeks.

Gear should account for variable conditions. Mornings at altitude can be cold, requiring arm warmers, a vest, and gloves. By midday, you’ll likely strip down to a jersey and bibs. Rain gear is essential, even during the dry season, as weather in the mountains shifts quickly. A good multi-tool, spare tubes, and a pump are standard, though mechanical support is often available on popular routes.

Planning Your Colombian Cycling Trip

Good riding in Colombia is about balance — enough climbing to make it memorable, but not so much that it overshadows the journey itself. Our route is designed with that in mind: challenging enough to satisfy strong riders, yet accessible within our three-and-a-half–espresso-cup grading. It blends steady climbs with cultural immersion at every turn, with optional extensions for those who want to push a little further.

The route was developed by our General Manager, Ben, together with our local partner, Tomás, whose knowledge of Colombian roads and riding culture shapes every stage. It reflects Ride & Seek’s Epic Bike Tour approach: purposeful, immersive, and connected to place. 

The result is a journey that celebrates stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and the simple joy of exploring one of the world’s great cycling nations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cycling in Colombia

Tomas (pictured above) has played an instrumental role in helping us shape an itinerary that we believe offers the best cycling and travel experience we could provide in Colombia. Drawing on his insight, he also helped us respond to some of the key questions that have come up in the lead-up to creating this tour.

Is it safe to cycle in Colombia?

Yes. Cycling in Colombia is generally safe, especially in areas popular with riders and on established routes. The country has invested heavily in road infrastructure and cycling awareness. Many Colombians use bicycles for daily transportation, and drivers are accustomed to sharing the road. As always, local knowledge helps — guided tours or recommended routes ensure the safest and most rewarding experience.

How popular is cycling in Colombia?

Cycling isn’t just a sport in Colombia — it’s part of the national identity. From everyday commuters to elite Colombian cyclists who dominate international races, the passion runs deep. Cities like Bogotá host weekly Ciclovía events, closing major streets to cars so thousands can ride freely. The sport’s success on the world stage has made cycling one of Colombia’s most prestigious and unifying activities.

Why cycle in Colombia?

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Colombia’s diversity — from the Andes to the Caribbean coast. The combination of smooth roads, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality makes it a truly unique riding destination. Whether you’re seeking a challenge or a cultural journey, exploring by bike is the way to go if you want to see the real Colombia.

Ready to plan your epic Colombia cycling trip? Get in touch today. 

Staying at Kansai Airport? Why You’ll Want to Head Into Osaka

For many of our guests, their adventure with us begins at Kansai International Airport (KIX), the main gateway to Osaka and much of southern Japan. Kansai Airport itself is an impressive feat — built on its own artificial island — but once you’ve landed, you’ll quickly realise that the airport island isn’t the ideal place to linger. Our starting hotel, the Kansai Airport Nikko Hotel, is perfect for a convenient overnight stay after a long flight or before departure. But for anything longer, we strongly recommend heading into the vibrant city of Osaka.
Although the airport is about an hour from Osaka city by train, getting into town is straightforward, and well worth it. If you’re planning a few extra nights before or after your tour, or filling the gap between tours such as our Mount Fuji adventure, Osaka is an ideal base.

What to do close to Kansai Airport?

The airport island is practical but limited. Apart from a few small restaurants and convenience stores, there’s not much to explore. However, just one stop away by train is Rinku Pleasure Town, where you’ll find shopping outlets, a large supermarket, dining options across multiple cuisines, a Ferris wheel, and — for those craving a traditional soak — an onsen (hot spring bath).
While this can make for a short diversion, for a proper taste of the bright lights of Japan, head into Osaka.

Getting into Osaka

Kansai International Airport is about 50 km from central Osaka — but getting into the city is easy and well worth it. The fastest option is the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service, which runs approximately every 15–30 minutes and takes about one hour to reach central Osaka (Osaka Station or Namba). This train offers a comfortable and direct ride, ideal for those heading into the heart of the city.
Alternatively, you can take a combination of local trains and subway lines, but this typically requires at least one change and takes longer.Osaka: A City Best Explored on Foot or by Public Transport
Osaka’s excellent metro, train and bus networks make it easy to explore the city without needing a bike. We recommend leaving your bike safely stored — either with us between tours or Kansai airport or Kansai Nikko Hotel — and simply enjoy your time on foot, by train, or by tram.

Top Must-See Sights in Osaka

Shimano Bicycle Museum (Sakai City)
A must for any cyclist. Discover the history of Shimano and the global evolution of cycling technology. The exhibits include historic bicycles, interactive displays, and fascinating insights into Japanese craftsmanship.

Osaka Castle
One of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, Osaka Castle is steeped in samurai history. Originally built in the 16th century by the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it played a key role in unifying Japan. The castle museum inside tells the dramatic story of feudal Osaka, and the surrounding park is perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Shitenno-ji Temple
Famous as Japan’s oldest Buddhist temple, founded in 593. A fun fact: to build the massive timber structures, worshippers donated their hair to make ropes strong enough to haul the giant logs — entire tree trunks — over icy roads in winter into the city centre. The temple grounds exude tranquillity despite being close to the busy city.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the largest aquariums in the world, stretching over three floors, with enormous tanks that include a whale shark — the world’s largest fish. In fact, the construction required almost the entire world’s supply of plexiglass for two years! The aquarium is a hit with all ages and a marvel of modern design.

Dotonbori District
Osaka’s neon-lit entertainment hub, famous for the giant animated signs and the iconic Glico Running Man billboard — you’ll recognise it instantly from photos and social media. It’s the perfect place to sample Osaka’s famous street food, from takoyaki (octopus balls) to okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes).

Umeda Sky Building & Floating Garden Observatory
A striking modern landmark. Two towers are connected at the top by a “floating” observatory offering 360-degree views across Osaka. The observatory’s open-air deck provides a spectacular vantage point, especially at sunset or after dark when the city lights glitter below.

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
One of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, known for its strikingly straight bridge with a steep arch — one of the most photographed spots in Osaka. The shrine is unique for its ancient style of architecture, which predates the influence of mainland Asia. The peaceful grounds feel worlds away from the bustle of the city.

Quirky & Hidden Gems in Osaka

Cup Noodles Museum (Ikeda)
A fun and interactive museum where you can design your own instant noodle creation and learn about the humble beginnings of this global food phenomenon.

Hozenji Yokocho Alley
A narrow, lantern-lit lane near Dotonbori, lined with tiny eateries and bars. At its heart is Hozenji Temple, where visitors splash water over a moss-covered statue for luck.

America Mura (American Village)
Osaka’s quirky youth district, packed with vintage stores, street art, and cafés with a distinctly alternative vibe. Great for people-watching and browsing unusual finds.

Nakanoshima Art Museum
A modern and beautifully designed space showcasing contemporary and 20th-century art, both Japanese and international. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and has an excellent café and shop.

Samurai & Ninja Museum with Experience
Located near Dotonbori, this small but engaging museum lets you learn about Japan’s feudal warriors. There are displays of samurai armour and weapons, and you can even try on a costume or try your hand at ninja star throwing.

Osaka 3-Day Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Osaka — Castles, Temples & Gardens

Focus area: Osaka Castle + nearby historical sites

• Osaka Castle & Park
•  Explore the castle’s museum (samurai history, feudal battles) and enjoy the castle park’s gardens, moats, and seasonal blooms. A relaxed way to start the day.
• Osaka Museum of History (optional add-on)
•  Across from the castle park — great city views and models showing Osaka’s evolution.
• Shitenno-ji Temple
•  Visit Japan’s oldest officially administered Buddhist temple. Learn about its fascinating construction — including those human hair ropes used to haul giant beams into place!
• Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine (if time permits)
•  A short tram or train ride south — admire the unique architecture and photogenic arched bridge.

Lunch tip: Try a nearby soba or udon shop around the castle park or temple area.

Day 2: Vibrant City Life — Dotonbori, Namba & Hozenji Yokocho

Focus area: Southern downtown (Namba / Dotonbori)

• Hozenji Yokocho Alley & Temple
•  A charming hidden lane where you can visit the moss-covered temple and duck into tiny, traditional restaurants.
• Samurai & Ninja Museum with Experience
•  Get hands-on with Japanese history: see samurai armour, try ninja star throwing, or dress in period costume.
• America Mura (American Village)
•  Stroll through Osaka’s quirky youth culture hub — full of vintage shops, record stores, and cafés.
• Dotonbori District
•  Wander the neon-lit streets, see the famous Glico Running Man sign, and soak up the atmosphere.This place comes into its own after dark.

Lunch/dinner tip: Street food along Dotonbori — takoyaki (octopus balls) or okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes).

Day 3: Waterfront Wonders & Modern Art

Focus area: Osaka Bay / Nakanoshima

• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (approx 1/2 way between Osaka and Kansai airport, good option for the way back)
•  One of the world’s largest aquariums, spanning three floors and home to a whale shark.
• Tempozan Marketplace (next door)
•  Shops, restaurants, and a chance for a casual bite with harbour views.
• Nakanoshima Art Museum (afternoon option)
•  Head to this modern museum for contemporary and 20th-century art, all in a beautifully designed riverside building.

Lunch tip: Try seafood at Tempozan or a café near Nakanoshima.

• Transport: All areas are easy to reach by metro, JR train, or tram. A prepaid IC card (ICOCA or similar) makes travel simple.

A Few Final Thoughts

While Kansai Airport is the ideal entry and exit point for your tour, the best way to experience this part of Japan is to spend time in Osaka itself. With a little planning, you can explore history, culture, quirky museums, and incredible food — all without needing to worry about your bike. Leave it safely stored and savour the energy of one of Japan’s most characterful cities.

At a glance: Getting from Kansai Airport to Osaka

• Train: JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service
• Frequency: Approx. every 15–30 minutes
• Journey time: Approx. 1 hour
• Destination: Direct to Osaka Station / Namba

Nothing beats that feeling of summiting a long-awaited iconic climb on your bike. All that training and miles in the saddle for a sublime moment of achievement in a faraway corner of the globe. And then, of course, there is the descent after.

For Our team, one of the best parts of our jobs is seeing our guests climb bucket-list mountains and passes. It can be emotional, as people push themselves to their physical and mental limits but ticking off any of these climbs can feel pretty great. Here we round up some of our absolute best epic cycle tour climbs according to our well-travelled team.

1.Col De l’Izoard, French Alps (Hannibal Tour)

I have many favourite climbs but one of the best for me has to be Col d’Izoard in the French Alps. It’s a  climb that I know well, I’ve ridden it many times from both sides and in some outrageous weather. At a height of 2360 metres and right up there in amongst ski resorts, it usually has snow on the top few kilometres right up until the beginning of June each year. Then it’s only completely clear of snow until October.

One memory that stands out for me was the time that I rode the 19km route from Briancon towards the end of May a few years ago with a friend. When we got to within 3km from the summit, we hit snow and what can only be described as appalling conditions. We should have turned back but being so close and coupled with the fact that my friend hadn’t summited before, we made the decision to push on. Conditions on those last couple of kilometres were some of the worst that I’ve ever ridden in. We couldn’t even stand up straight on the top at the famous monument, and we were so cold it was unbelievable. Of course, the conditions eased after that first 3km and once warmed up I continued down to Briancon with an ever-increasing smile. I love this mountain so much, I have learned not only to enjoy her but to respect her as well. Richie Mitchell

Climb Statistics (from Briancon): 19.5km, Elevation gained 1145m, Average gradient 5.8%, Maximum gradient 9%

2. Mortirolo, the Italian Dolomites (Caesar Tour – Stage 2)

The Mortirolo is a high pass in the Italian Alps, unrelenting in its punishing gradient. Featuring heavily in the Giro d’Italia, it is a favourite climb among guests who enjoy testing their limits. Whilst climbing the pass, at bend 11 you can check out the Pantani monument. This monument is here as it marks the point in the 1994 Giro when the world really began to take notice of him. With 32 turns and an average gradient of 11.3%, it is a true mental and physical test. Much of the climb is forest-lined which is beautiful but gives you little opportunity to see how far you have climbed. It is a beast of a climb but a great one to add to your bucket list. Chris Small

Climbing statistics from Mazzo: 11km, Average gradient 11.3%, Maximum gradient 20% Elevation gain 1300m

3. The Giant of Provence -Mont Ventoux (Hannibal Tour)

Setting off on a hot Provencal day, Richie and I rode the Gorges de la Nesque to Sault and then up Mount Ventoux. The ascent from Sault is lesser known than the famous Bedoin and Maleucene ascents, however, it is still a beautiful climb. Starting at a higher elevation, it is longer with a lesser gradient than the other routes but the final 6km are joined with the Bedoin route to make it a tough finish. I would recommend it to anyone who is apprehensive about taking on the Bedoin or Malaucene routes but would like to give Ventoux a go! We love this climb as it is on the doorstep of our European HQ and is always a welcome sight when we are working in Provence. Colette Southworth

Climb statistics from Sault: 25.7km, 1152 elevation, Average gradient 4.5%, Maximum gradient 11%.

4. Mount Ishizuchi, Shikoku Island (Samurai Tour – Stage 2)  

On the Samurai Shikoku tour, we were all looking forward to cycling Mount Ishizuchi. The photographs looked stunning and I had been assured there was a superb hot noodle restaurant at the summit. The weather started closing in on the climb with fog and drizzle making it a little demotivating. However, onward we went willing each other up the largest peak in Western Japan. At the summit, we were greeted with fog clouds and bundled into the restaurant for steaming hot noodles. Just what we needed after our soggy climb. As we set off on the descent, all the climbing made sense as the fog dissipated and we were greeted with panoramic vistas of autumnal Japanese forests. Meg Reynolds

Climb statistics: 11.5km, 780m climbing, Average gradient 5.9%

5. Sella Ronda, Italian Dolomites (Caesar Tour – Stage 2)

For 2020, we managed to coincide our Caesar tour with the Sella Ronda bike day. This fantastic day gives cyclists the opportunity to cycle these magnificent passes without and vehicles on the road. What could be better, magnificent views, fantastic coffee and Italian food to refuel on. For me, this is one of my all-time favourite Italian passes, having ridden it twice. I love this ride!   Jess Shull

Route statistics clockwise: Approx 58km, Elevation 1845m, include 4 passes: Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella and Gardena.

6. Col Agnel, French Alps (Hannibal Tour)

At 2744 m, Col Agnel is the third highest pass in the French Alps at 2744m. Only Col de l’Iseran and the Stelvio are higher. The first part of the climb is moderately steep at 6-8%, with a relatively easier middle section, before ramping up to 8-9% for the final 7km. It’s a tough climb, and the weather can be very variable, but at the summit you are rewarded with sweeping views of the Alps and an incredible view back into France, as well as the hairpin bends down into Italy, which form the beginning of one of Europe’s longest descents – 50 kilometres! Ben Kane

Climb Statistics (French side): 20.8km, elevation 1365m, Average gradient 6.6%, Maximum gradient 8-9%.

7. Stelvio Pass, Italian Alps (Caesar Tour – Stage 2)

One of the most iconic climbs of Europe, the Stelvio is an incredible cycling experience. With 48 hairpin bends it can feel like you are climbing endlessly. On our 2019 Caesar custom tour, parts of the pass were still closed due to a particularly cold winter season leaving a 20ft snow wall blocking our planned descent. Undeterred, we managed to put together an alternative route for our guests which still enabled them to get up the Stelvio with the unexpected bonus of dropping into Switzerland before looping back to the original route. Marten Fekkes

Climb statistics: 21km, elevation 1558m, average gradient 7%

8. Alpe D’Huez, French Alps (Hannibal Tour)

Alpe d’Huez is a favourite climb among guides and guests alike. It brings with it a bit of friendly competition from the team, comparing our times up this iconic climb. Including 21 bends and 14km of climbing, it is shorter but no less gruelling than other climbs we do on tour. Starting with an average of 11%, you want to take it easy for the first 6 bends. It is not until closer to the summit that you get a relatively easier climb of 5-6% gradient” James Geen.

Climb Statistics: 14km, elevation 1120m, minimum gradient 5%, maximum gradient 11-12%

9. Mount Ruapehu -North Island, New Zealand  (Maori Tour – Stage 2)

This climb is the only Hors Categorie climb in New Zealand and provides a fantastic challenge to riders on our Maori tour. It is a still-active volcano and in winter the biggest ski field the southern hemisphere. The climb itself is 17km with approximately 1000m elevation. The first 6km are fairly moderate, but don’t get too comfortable as from there the gradient climbs to above 10%.” Rich Mortiboys

Climb Statistics: 17km, elevation 1000m, minimum gradient approximately 5%, maximum gradient above 10%

10. Pico de Veleta –  Andalucia, Spain (Conquest of the Moors Tour – Stage 2)

Believe it or not, but the highest paved road in Europe is not found in the French or Swiss Alps, but in the Spanish Picos. This climb is an absolute beast and not one for the faint of heart. So for the Conquest of the Moors’ tour, we will only offer it as part of an optional ride. This climb is very long, very steep (in parts) and very high- all the elements that make up a true cyclist’s bucket-list climb. To reach the summit, you will need to ride 43km uphill, with an average gradient of 6.5%, with the final kilometres becoming steeper. You may also find the altitude making breathing a little more difficult, which only adds to the challenge. Dylan Reynolds

Climb Statistics (from Granada): 43km, elevation gain 2700m,average gradient 6.5%, maximum gradient 8%

We hope this blog sparks a little motivation to get climbing and add some new climbs to your Epic list and perhaps an epic cycle tour too!

Marco Polo: Traveller, Storyteller… or the Greatest Fiction Ever Told?

Imagine returning home after twenty-four years of travel. You tell stories of cities larger than any in Europe. Of paper money, coal that burns like wood and vast imperial courts. Deserts that seem to whisper at night, and roads stretching further than anyone you know can imagine. Would anyone believe you?

For more than 700 years, readers have wrestled with that question. Were Marco Polo’s extraordinary tales true? Were they exaggerated? Or did they spring from the imagination of a gifted storyteller?

“I did not tell half of what I saw, for I knew I would not be believed.”
— Attributed to Marco Polo

Did Marco Polo Really Exist?

The short answer is almost certainly yes. Historical records from Venice document the Polo family and place Marco back in the city after his long absence. His will survives, along with references to his family and possessions. Most historians agree that Marco Polo was a real Venetian merchant who travelled east with his father and uncle in the late thirteenth century. The greater mystery isn’t whether Marco Polo existed. It’s whether The Travels of Marco Polo tells us exactly what happened.

The Book That Changed Europe’s View of the World

According to tradition, Marco Polo didn’t actually write his famous book.

Captured during a naval battle between Venice and Genoa in 1298, he found himself sharing a prison cell with Rustichello da Pisa, a writer of popular chivalric romances. Marco told the stories. Rustichello wrote them down. The result became one of the most influential travel books ever written.

But that raises an intriguing question. Where does Marco end and Rustichello begin? How much came from memory? How much was polished into a better story? How much was shaped to entertain an audience hungry for tales of distant lands? We’ll probably never know.

View more great books on Marco Polo in our tour Reading List

Truth… or Tall Tales?

For centuries, critics dismissed Marco Polo’s stories as fantasy. His descriptions of paper currency, an efficient postal system and the immense wealth of Kublai Khan’s empire seemed too extraordinary to be believable. Yet history has repeatedly proved many of these accounts to be remarkably accurate.

Other details remain puzzling. Marco never mentioned the Great Wall of China, tea, chopsticks or foot binding—things modern readers often expect to find in a traveller’s account. Does that mean he never went? Not necessarily.

The Great Wall, as we know it today, was largely built centuries later during the Ming Dynasty. Tea and chopsticks may simply have seemed too ordinary to mention, while other omissions continue to fuel lively historical debate. The mystery remains part of Marco Polo’s enduring appeal.

Does It Matter?

As we’ve developed our Marco Polo tour, we’ve found ourselves asking a different question;
Not: Did Marco Polo stand exactly here?
But: What kind of traveller was he?

Whether every story is perfectly accurate almost seems beside the point. Marco Polo approached unfamiliar cultures with curiosity rather than fear. He paid attention to the people he met, the customs they practised and the ideas that made each place unique. He returned home with stories that expanded his contemporaries’ understanding of the world.
In many ways, that’s the journey we hope every Ride & Seek guest experiences.

Travel Like Marco Polo

Our route doesn’t attempt to trace Marco Polo’s footsteps mile by mile. Historians continue to debate many aspects of his journey, and perhaps they always will. Instead, we invite you to travel in his spirit.

Ride through landscapes where cultures have met for centuries. Wander medieval ports where merchants exchanged not only goods but ideas. Pause to ask questions. Be curious. Listen to the stories of the places you visit and the people who call them home.

And when you return home? Don’t just remember the kilometres you rode. Remember the conversations that changed your perspective, the unexpected moments of discovery, and the stories that will stay with you long after the journey has ended.

Because whether Marco Polo’s greatest legacy was every mile he travelled or every story he told, one thing is certain:
The best journeys are the ones that change how we see the world. And those are exactly the journeys we hope to share with you.

Inspired to travel in the spirit of Marco Polo?

Explore our Marco Polo cycling adventure and discover the cultures, landscapes and stories that continue to inspire travellers today. Marco Polo; Lake Bled to Athens

The fact that Marco Polo was Venetian is widely accepted, indeed both the Wikipedia and Encyclopaedia Britannica entries cite Venice as his birthplace. So why is there a small house in Korčula, Croatia, claiming to be where Marco Polo was born?

With its dramatic tower overlooking the roofs of Korčula old town and the sparkling Pelješac Channel, this charming house would certainly make a fitting start to a remarkable life. But is it really Marco Polo’s birthplace, and if so would that make him Croatian rather than Italian?

The house in question was once owned by the Depolo family, and it is claimed that Depolo, a Dalmatian name, is a variant of Polo. Other records also show that Marco’s father Nicolo Pilic (another variant of Polo) was from Sibenik in Dalmatia, and later moved to Venice. If Marco had been born on the Island, which was under Venetian rule at the time, his nationality would indeed have been recorded as Venetian, even though he wasn’t actually born in Venice.

Sadly we have very few facts about Marco’s childhood, but we do know that his father, along with his  uncle Maffeo, were successful merchants, trading silk and jewels along the Silk Road through Asia. We also know that his father and uncle only met Marco for the first time at the age of around 15 when they returned to Venice from their travels in Asia, having left when his mother was pregnant. In theory it seems feasible that Marco’s mother gave birth in Korčula and moved with her son to Venice during the 15 years in between, but there is simply no evidence.

The issue has long been debated, and hit the news in 2011 when a museum dedicated to Marco Polo in Yangzhou, China, was opened by the former president of Croatia, Stjepan Mesić, rather than an Italian dignitary. Controversially, during the ceremony, he publicly claimed Marco Polo to be Dalmatian, and a Croatian. A flurry of headlines ensued with an Italian journalist writing an article cheekily accusing ‘Zagreb’ of ‘kidnapping’ Il Milione, (Marco’s Italian nickname). The journalist argues that even if Polo was born on the island of Korčula, he was born a Venetian, and trying to reclaim his birth as Croatian would be an ‘historical extravagance’ .

It seems his birthplace will remain a mystery for now, and while his nationality may be susceptible to the various changes in politics and national boundaries over the centuries, we’re fortunate Marco Polo didn’t let these man-made borders stand in his way during his lifetime.

Our partnership with the Indigenous communities reflects reconciliation through respect for Country and each other. At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all.

Elder Uncle Dozer speaks to the tour about his Country and Culture at Bright.

Your Ride and Seek Strzelecki journey begins on Bondi Beach, Sydney, on the ancient traditional lands of the Birrabirragal clans of the Dharawal nation.

Australia was first inhabited by the First Nations People of Australia around 65,000 years ago, making the Australian Indigenous Culture the world’s oldest continuous living culture.

Australia is made up of hundreds of First Nations, distinct language-based groups connected to stretches of territory known as ‘Country‘, much like modern-day Europe. Important traditional information is passed down and shared through ceremony, art, song, dance, story and cultural objects.

Message sticks were often used to facilitate long-distance communication between different language groups. Message sticks are flat, rounded pieces of wood etched with intricate carvings. They were not comprised of writing but symbols conveying important messages between Aboriginal nations.

Message sticks could be on any topic, but they always demanded respect and acknowledgement. They were often announcements about ceremonies, such as initiations or funerals. They could also establish political partnerships, request resources or emergency assistance, declare war, organise hunting, or trade vital resources.

The Strzelecki Tour message stick (above), created especially for the Strzelecki Tour using the traditional burning technique of the area, by Elder Uncle Dozer, with the Strzelecki Tour’s map etched into local Yellowbox timber. 

Message sticks were typically carried by messengers who conveyed the details of the markings, and those from other nations were obliged to recognise the carrier as an ambassador, look after them, and guarantee a safe passage into the lands of other nations.

This BBC article offers a useful video overview of the significance of message sticks.

There are many First Nations within Australia, and crossing into foreign territory without permission could be punishable by death, but envoys had diplomatic immunity and were given respect. People wishing to enter would be required to wait at the edge of Country for permission, known today as “Welcome to Country” from the recognised Elder.

The Strzelecki tour follows the path of the Strzelecki expedition, which included two Indigenous guides, Charlie Tara and Jackey, who saved the party from starvation with their knowledge and hunting ability. On tour, you will be travelling through 13 ancient lands: Stage 1 from Dharawal, Sydney to Wiradjuri Country, Albury, Stage 2 continuing on to Wurundjeri Country, Melbourne and Stage 3 finishing in Nipaluna Country, Hobart on the island of Lutruwita, Tasmania.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Strzelecki Australian Tour and embarking on this journey of discovery, learning about the Australian First Nations’ perspectives.

Note: First Nations place names and spelling are referenced from the Norman Tindale map (below)

Acknowledgement of Country

Ride and Seek acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

Vienna, with its rich history, classical music legacy, and grand architecture, offers an array of cultural and historic experiences. Here’s a suggested itinerary based on having a two-day stay in this enchanting city. You can obviously adapt it based on the time you have available.

Day 1: Exploring Vienna’s Historic Heart

Begin your trip with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most significant cultural monuments in Austria. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the summer residence of the Habsburgs and is famed for its Baroque architecture and exquisite gardens. Arrive early to avoid crowds and explore the opulent state rooms on a guided tour, learning about the lives of Empress Maria Theresa, Emperor Franz Joseph, and other royals. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the vast gardens, stopping by the Gloriette for a panoramic view of Vienna.

Head to St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the city center. This Gothic masterpiece is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, with its impressive multi-colored tiled roof. You can explore the cathedral’s interior or climb the south tower (343 steps!) for spectacular views of the city. Be sure to admire the cathedral’s intricately designed altars and stained-glass windows, which reflect centuries of history.

In the context of our tour, our trip specialist Nathalie adds, “St. Stephen’s Cathedral played a key role during the Siege of 1529, with its towers serving as lookout points. Explore Vienna’s City Walls remnants near the Ringstrasse, built for defence during Suleiman the Magnificent’s siege. The Heeresgeschichtliches Museum (Museum of Military History) also has exhibits related to the siege.”

The Hofburg Palace, which was the Habsburgs’ winter residence. This vast complex is now home to several museums, including the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Treasury. Explore the life of Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”) and the luxurious lifestyle of Austrian royalty. The palace’s grounds and courtyards are also worth exploring for their architectural beauty and regal atmosphere.

For art lovers, the Albertina Museum is a must. Located near the Hofburg, it houses an impressive collection of artworks, including pieces from Monet, Picasso, and Austrian artists like Gustav Klimt. The museum is known for its graphic arts collection and rotating exhibitions that highlight different periods and movements.

End your day with a visit to the Vienna State Opera. If you’re a fan of classical music or opera, you might want to attend an evening performance. The opera house is renowned for its acoustics and ornate interiors. Even if you don’t have time for a show, consider taking a guided tour of the building to learn more about its storied past.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Local Flavors

Start your second day at Belvedere Palace, another Baroque gem. This palace is split into the Upper and Lower Belvedere and is home to the world’s largest collection of paintings by Gustav Klimt, including his famous work, The Kiss. Besides Klimt, the museum features works by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, and other Austrian masters. Take your time to wander through the beautiful gardens connecting the two parts of the palace.

After the art-filled morning, head to the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s most popular market. This bustling place is perfect for grabbing lunch and immersing yourself in the local food scene. You’ll find an array of stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and ready-to-eat dishes. Try some traditional Viennese food like Wiener Schnitzel or Apfelstrudel, or simply enjoy a coffee at one of the market’s many cafes.

In the afternoon, dive into more art at the Kunsthistorisches Museum. This grand museum houses an extensive collection of works by European masters like Raphael, Vermeer, Rubens, and Bruegel. The museum’s architecture is as impressive as its collection, with marble staircases, ornate ceilings, and beautiful frescoes.

For a more relaxed end to your day, visit Prater Park and take a ride on the Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel), a historic landmark offering panoramic views of Vienna. This iconic Ferris wheel is a perfect way to see the city from above, especially during sunset.

After a day full of exploring, treat yourself to a leisurely dinner at a traditional Viennese restaurant. You might want to try the city’s signature dessert, Sachertorte, at the renowned Café Sacher. Afterward, take an evening stroll along the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard encircling the historic center, with many of Vienna’s most famous buildings lit up at night.

Additional Tips:

Public Transport: Vienna’s public transport is efficient, with trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway) connecting the city’s major sites.

Vienna Pass: Consider purchasing the Vienna Pass for discounted entry to many attractions and free access to hop-on-hop-off buses.

In two days, you’ll get a taste of Vienna’s imperial history, artistic treasures, and vibrant cultural scene.

With our Marco Polo Cycling Tour the process was very much assisted by the fact our trip specialist Marcello had been running tours down the Dalmatian coast for many years and had studied in Venice over 2o years ago. The tour was very much a realisation of a personal dream to create a tour with Marco Polo at its core and we were more than happy to make it happen. However, there was still a need to test some of his recommendations before we added them to the roster. This was the case with a family-run restaurant in an abandoned village on the island of Hvar that Marcello thought would work well on the tour. It is fair to say Dylan didn’t object too strongly when asked to try it out when on a family holiday in Hvar!

The test run was a resounding success and everything about the experience fitted with our desire to sample local fare and get a sense of place through doing so. Our host and chef Berti took the time to introduce us to his family and explained how he ended up running a biodynamic restaurant specialising in ‘peka’ in an abandoned village on the island of Hvar. It was clear that this dining experience had all the ‘ingredients’ to be added to the list of culinary highlights across the tours we run and our visit there in September proved that to be the case. The meat and seafood peka dishes served up were sublime and so we thought we thought we’d give you more of an insight into what ‘peka’ actually was.

The peka is a traditional dish from the Dalmatian region of Croatia. It’s a relatively simple dish of meat and vegetables, placed in a large pot or pan with a metal lid called a cripnja, and cooked for several hours in the embers of a fire. Much of Croatian cuisine celebrates cooking over the fire, with its grills and skewers, and the peka is part of this great tradition. What appears a fairly rudimentary cooking method produces the most succulent results, and over the generations, the process has taken on its own ritual, with many older homes having a specific place where the peka is prepared. It is often served when there are guests in the house, and restaurants in the area will typically have several versions on the menu, with different choices of meat and fish.

The Peka recipe

– Light the fire at least an hour before starting to cook, and place the cooking pot near the fire to warm.
– Cut the meat or fish into large pieces and place in the pot. Lamb and veal are often used, as is fish and octopus.
– Cut the potatoes and any vegetables you wish to use into large pieces and nestle them in the pot along with the meat.
– Season with olive oil, salt, pepper and a little paprika.
– When you have plenty of embers in the fireplace move them to one side using your fireside shovel, and place the peka pan directly onto the hot stone, making sure the lid is securely fitted.
– Then shovel the embers over the top of the pot and cook until the potatoes are golden and the meat tender and juicy, which will take an hour for fish dishes, and longer for tougher cuts of meat.

The right amount of seasoning and perfect cooking time comes with experience, like so many things in life!

As is often the case the best accompaniment to a dish that is very much a part of its local culture, is a local wine. Here are a few of Croatia’s most fabulous reds and whites. We were very lucky to have our newly qualified sommelier Marcello on the tour to manage the wine kitty

Dingač is known as the ‘King of Croatian wines’. The Dingač region is on the Pelješac Peninsula in the Dalmatian region and was the first wine-producing area in Croatia to become a protected zone in 1965. The Plavac mali grape, that grows on its steep southern slopes, creates a wine that is dark red, full-bodied and generally strong, typically with an alcohol content of 15%.

Pošip is a robust white wine, golden in colour, and a great accompaniment to fish Peka, including the fabulous octopus peka. The grape is grown mostly on the island of Korčula, and also goes well with the light cheeses produced in the area.

Plavac mali is a ruby red, rich and velvety wine. Its excellent quality has made it one of Croatia’s most exported wines, and a popular choice to pair with game and meat dishes.

Faros is another a top-quality wine produced from the Plavac mali grape. The grapes used to create this dry red are grown on the island of Hvar, the variety having been originally cultivated in the area by the ancient Greeks.

Bogdanuša is a variety also grown almost exclusively on the island of Hvar, producing a dry greenish-yellow white wine. It has a fresh taste, with fans detecting the presence of the lavender that grows alongside it on the Stari Grad Plain.

Prošek is a sweet dessert wine produced in the south of Croatia, predominantly Dalmatia. Because of its production method that requires seven times more grapes than other wines, only a few hundred litres are made each year, making good quality versions more expensive. In Croatia it often makes an appearance on special occasions such as weddings and christenings, but don’t fall into the trap of confusing it with Italian Prosecco!

As you pedal away from Svolvær, you’ll find yourself engulfed in a symphony of mesmerizing landscapes. Majestic mountains stand tall, their snow-capped peaks seemingly touching the heavens, while deep fjords glisten like jewels under the endless Arctic sun.

The coastal road gracefully winds along the rugged coastline, revealing one stunning panorama after another. Passing through the quaint fishing village of Henningsvær (below), the picturesque charm of colourful houses against the backdrop of vast blue waters will leave you spellbound.

As you venture further, Reinefjorden comes into view, a stunning masterpiece of nature that beckons you closer. Arriving in Reine, you’ll be welcomed by its iconic red rorbuer perched on the water’s edge, mirroring the grandeur of the towering mountains.

The journey is not just a visual feast but a spiritual experience too. The crisp air carries the salty scent of the sea, while the gentle whispers of the wind become your constant companion. Each pedal stroke becomes a communion with the untamed nature surrounding you.

Embrace the adventure and explore hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints like Reinebringen, rewarding your efforts with panoramic vistas that resonate deep within your soul. Along the route, friendly locals welcome you with warm smiles and captivating stories, making you feel at home in this remote corner of the world.

This cycling odyssey between Svolvær and Reine celebrates nature’s magnificence, a harmonious blend of serene coastal charm and awe-inspiring wilderness. It’s an unforgettable voyage into the heart of Lofoten’s enchantment, leaving an indelible mark on your memories and forever igniting the wanderlust in your spirit.

Tokyo is our gateway to the start of our Mt Fuji tour. For those arriving early, we have compiled a blog designed to give you an outline for spending a day in this amazing city. A day in Tokyo offers an exhilarating blend of tradition and modernity.

Morning

Begin your morning at Asakusa, home to the historic Senso-ji Temple. Wander through Nakamise-dori, a bustling street lined with traditional shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Next, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a forested area near Harajuku. This Shinto shrine is a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. Afterward, stroll down Takeshita Street in Harajuku, which is famous for its quirky fashion boutiques, crepe stands, and vibrant youth culture.

For lunch/brunch, head to Shibuya, where you can savour a delicious bowl of ramen or sushi. Don’t miss the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, and the iconic Hachiko Statue. Shibuya is a dynamic district perfectly capturing Tokyo’s blend of modern energy and youthful culture. My first trip there was in 2008, and it left an indelible mark in terms of me knowing that I would be back again and again!

If ramen is your thing, I recommend finding your way to the aptly named – Ramen Street! Ramen Street is located in the underground Tokyo Station and is a must-visit for noodle enthusiasts. It features eight renowned ramen shops, each offering unique regional styles and flavours. From rich tonkotsu to savory shoyu, Ramen Street is a culinary journey through Japan’s beloved noodle dish. I’ve only eaten there once, but the place I chose – Rokurinsha – did a good job, so I’m happy to recommend it as an option.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, explore the trendy district of Omotesando, known for its stylish boutiques and cafes. Then, make your way to the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower for panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation deck. Another area I also enjoy visiting is the Harajuka district. Don’t miss Cat Street for unique shops and trendy vibes. Finish with a relaxing stroll through Yoyogi Park, where you can enjoy street performances and the lively atmosphere, capturing the eclectic essence of Harajuku.

Evening

As evening falls, visit the lively district of Shinjuku. Wander through Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alleyway filled with small izakaya (Japanese pubs), perfect for an authentic dining experience. The izakaya experience offers a cozy, informal setting where you can enjoy a variety of small, flavorful dishes paired with drinks. It’s a perfect spot for socializing with friends, experiencing local culture, and savoring delicious Japanese cuisine in a lively atmosphere. I liken the izakaya experience to being a form of Japanese tapas and a quintessential cultural immersion. If you don’t have a Japanese speaker with you, the chances are you’ll end up doing a lot of pointing and checking out the dishes of others around you to help you make a choice. That is all part of the fun, and the crisp beer that flows really helps wash it all down.