The Tour de France is arguably the most significant event on the grand calendar of competitive, professional cycling. Right across the globe, whether in mainland Europe, New Zealand, or Asia, there has been an enormous cycling boom since the start of this decade.
Given this surge in popularity, and the number of people spending money on new bikes and the accompanying gear, there has also been a rise in the number of people seeking cycling routes inspired by one of the grandest professional cycling races of all.
Alongside this growth, there has been a resurgence in gambling markets that focus specifically on the grand cycling events, not just the Tour de France. Generating lots of interest on social media and the highest TV ratings of any race, the popularity of the Tour de France has also resulted in gambling markets seeing an increase in use. Tour de France Betting Tips come from a huge range of professionals, expert opinions, and those who have spent years exploring the markets online.
While cycling routes and gambling markets might be aimed at two different demographics, the surging numbers dipping their toes in both showcase just how much potential there is for the entire industry to flourish in the digital age.
French-inspired scenic routes
The majority of the focus is cycling routes in and around France, covering the breadth of the country. Some of these routes are ideal for beginners. In contrast, others are long-distance routes specifically designed for the most dedicated cyclists who have a passion for Tour de France-inspired destinations.
France features heavily in any list of destinations for the top cycling holidays in Europe, and for those of you who are inspired by the world’s greatest cycling race and the beauty of Europe, here are some of our favourite long-distance routes. They are particularly relevant for those who have a penchant for covering the whole scope of Europe.
Route des Grandes Alpes
The Route des Grandes Alpes is one of the world’s greatest cycling routes, boasting over 17,000m of elevation and spanning more than 700km. It’s not for the faint-hearted. However, for those who can keep up with the gruelling demand, the route that covers every scenic spot between Nice and Lake Geneva is a sought-after destination for cyclists from all over the globe.
La Vélodyssée
If you’re somebody who thinks that 700km isn’t enough, and you fancy something even more arduous, the Atlantic Route, La Vélodyssée, is another highly rated cycling route that covers large portions of the French mainland on the Atlantic Ocean’s coastline. In total, it covers the coast of several countries, including
- The United Kingdom
- Norway (the starting point)
- Ireland
- Portugal (the end point)
Despite this route being undoubtedly one of the most scenic, it is also one of the most difficult, clocking up at over 10,000km. Some standout sections include the Nantes-Brest canal path and the Point De Grave, which runs parallel to the tourist railway.
Also, remember to pack for a range of weather. Northern Norway can be cold at any time of year, and Portugal is one of the hottest places to cycle. The UK can have very mixed conditions all-year-round. In terms of beauty and scenery, though, it’s up there as a great route.
ViaRhôna
For those who don’t fancy covering multiple countries in Europe, and prefer to keep it France-focused, the ViaRhôna is a cycle route that is slightly more than 800km in length and goes straight through the French countryside.
It follows the Rhine River from Switzerland to Holland but covers over 150km of France in the process. It captures the essence of the Tour de France, but you can take it at your own pace and don’t have to worry about your time or speed.
Other notable routes in Europe
Cyclists branching out of the French-inspired routes will have no problems finding other great routes in Europe. In fact, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here are our top picks, which expert cyclists and community members personally recommend:
- Mallorca Tramuntana Mountains: A beautiful view of the Mediterranean coastline, and although aimed at serious cyclists, the 120km route is much shorter than some of the other longer routes recommended in this article.
- South Tyrol Wine Road: If you want to take a detour through the Italian countryside, the South Tyrol Wine Road route is a good choice. Although it doesn’t have some of the coastal views of the Tramunatana route, you’ll see quintessential Italy, including sprawling vineyards as far as the eye can see. It’s also close to some highly recommended tourist spots, such as Brixen in South Tyrol.
- The Wild Atlantic Way: The route offers more than 1000km along the beautiful coast of Ireland. It’s one to reserve for the summer months when the weather should be more settled.
Final thoughts: If any of the routes take your fancy, do plenty of research and planning before embarking on your long trip across Europe.
If you enjoy long summer days and sunsets, any route that covers the Mediterranean will be a great choice. For those who prefer something a bit cooler, maybe the first few hundred kilometres of the La Vélodyssée might be more up your street.
If you’re looking for something in the middle, the Wild Atlantic Way would be a great pick, especially in the summer. You’re likely to get a mix of really lovely, warm days, some windy days, and your fair share of stunning sunsets. It’s a route that is less of a gruelling slog than some of the other mountainous routes that take inspiration from the Tour de France, and it centres on mainland Europe. One thing is for sure, though, you’ll easily be spoilt for choice.
