Vancouver has been listed as one of the best cities in the world for a cycling adventure by none other than travel-guide publisher Lonely Planet.
The list released Jan. 22, ranks the top 10 best places for a cycling holiday in 2020 and Vancouver came in second place.
Lonely Planet Writer Keir Plaice chose Vancouver in particular for the North Shore’s “legendary mountain bike trails.”
He highlights the beauty of being in Vancouver was that the most incredible trails were situated just a short drive from the city centre.
“Mt Fromme and Mt Seymour are home to the most renowned and difficult trails,” he wrote.
“Steep tracks that twist down through old-growth red cedars, aided by a range of man-made bridges and teeter-totters (see-saws).
“The riding there will leave you giddy with laughter if your skills are up to it.”
Mt Seymour has 71 mountain bike trails to choose from, offering options for the hard-core rider to the beginner, as well as a further 15 multi-use trails. Similarily, Mt Fromme also offers a lot of adrenaline-pumping fun, with 65 mountain bike tracks and 25 multi-use trails. The mountain’s beginner trail is said to be perfect for newcomers to the sport.
Vancouver was bested by picturesque Siena, Italy. Namely for its famous cycling route which the Strade Bianche race takes place. The trail twists and turns over the surrounding region’s hilly, white gravel roads, before arriving at the finish on the Piazza del Campo, writes Plaice.
“It’s like being on a cypress-lined rollercoaster through vineyards and olive groves,” he writes.
Coming in third place is Yorkshire, England. While the UK isn’t well known as a cycling destination, Plaice writes, “that should change soon.”
“Quiet country lanes in places like Yorkshire are as enjoyable for riding as Europe’s more famous roads. Up in the Dales, the hills might not be as long as grand tour cols, but they are as steep as heck and come one after the other,” he describes.
“After an hour or two, you will want to stop for tea and scones.”
While mountain biking is regarded as a summer sport, a lot of the trails are open in winter. Just like hiking, you always want to check conditions before heading to a mountain. Here are some winter mountain biking tips by Vancouver Trails.
Here is the full list of Lonely Planet’s top 10 best places for a cycling holiday in 2020:
1. Siena, Italy
2. Vancouver, Canada
3. Yorkshire, England
4. Stavanger, Norway
5. Girona, Spain
6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
7. Athens, USA
8. Cape Breton, Canada
9. Boulder, USA
10. Chihuahua, Mexico
Be sure to check current weather, terrain, and wildlife conditions prior to embarking on a hike or biking adventure. In addition, make sure that you know your physical limitations, tell someone where you are going, bring enough food and water, wear appropriate clothing, and never hike alone. Don’t attempt dangerous poses for photographs. Visit Vancouver Trails online for a detailed list of safety tips and things to consider before your next adventure.
