Get ready to pedal and discover new horizons this summer! Bike touring offers the perfect combination of outdoor adventure, exercise, and travel. Europe is home to many incredible bike-friendly destinations, ideal for intermediate and advanced amateur cyclists looking for challenging routes and unforgettable landscapes.
In this article, we explore four top destinations in Europe with multi-day itineraries, places to visit at each stage, reference maps, and Eltin product recommendations to get you properly equipped.
The French Way of St. James is the quintessential bike pilgrimage route in Spain. It starts in the French Pyrenees and crosses the north of the peninsula all the way to Santiago de Compostela. It covers nearly 800 km filled with history and diverse landscapes, from the mountains of Navarra to the vineyards of La Rioja and the green valleys of Galicia. It's no surprise that this is the most popular route among pilgrims on foot and by bike.
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If you don’t have that much time, an ideal option is to ride the last 300 km from León to Santiago, which is enough to receive the Compostela.
Below, we suggest a 5–7 day itinerary starting from León to Santiago.
The Dolomites are located in northern Italy and form a mountain range offering spectacular landscapes and iconic routes, such as the Sella Ronda loop and the climb to the Three Peaks of Lavaredo.
Sella Ronda is a circuit that connects four iconic mountain passes in a 60 km loop. Also noteworthy are legendary climbs from the Giro d’Italia, such as the Three Peaks of Lavaredo (Tre Cime) or the Passo Giau.
Discover the castles of the Loire Valley, a French gem you can't miss. Also known as the "Garden of France", it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its incredible landscapes and charming villages. This is a very long valley with gentle terrain and plenty of bike lanes, where you can admire spectacular castles and iconic cities. A route that includes all the ingredients for a perfect cycling experience.
The total distance is approximately 350 km and, depending on your pace, it can be completed in 4–5 days.
Day 1: Orléans – Blois (60 km):
Start in the historic city of Orléans, famous for its cathedral and for being the city of Joan of Arc. Following the Loire River, you'll ride through river landscapes and small villages until you reach Blois, a city with a Renaissance castle that combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical styles. Don’t miss the nighttime light show at the castle.
Day 2: Blois – Amboise (45 km):
From Blois, continue cycling toward Amboise, another destination full of history. Here you'll find the Royal Château of Amboise, a former residence of French kings, and the Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s last home, where you can see models of his inventions. It’s a peaceful yet culturally rich stage.
Day 3: Amboise – Tours (40 km):
This day is perfect for enjoying the natural landscapes of the Loire. Pass by the impressive Château de Chenonceau, famous for its architecture spanning the Cher River. Continue to Tours, a lively city with a charming historic center. Visit Place Plumereau and enjoy the vibrant evening atmosphere.
Day 4: Tours – Saumur (80 km):
The longest stage takes you through vineyards and bucolic scenery. Don’t miss the Abbey of Fontevraud, a monumental complex housing the tombs of Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Finish in Saumur, known for its riverside castle and equestrian tradition.
Day 5: Saumur – Angers (60 km):
The final stretch leads you to Angers, famous for its medieval castle which houses the Apocalypse Tapestry, the largest in the world. Enjoy a stroll through its gardens and explore its old town.
The Via Claudia Augusta is an ancient Roman road that connects southern Germany with northern Italy, crossing the Alps. It’s a route that blends history, culture, and stunning landscapes—from the Bavarian plains to the majestic Alps and the Italian vineyards.
Perfect for those seeking a varied and scenic bike touring adventure. It starts in Germany (Augsburg), passes through Austria (Tyrol), and ends in Italy (Venice or Lake Garda). The total distance is around 600 km and can be completed in 6–7 days.
To take on this kind of multi-day cycling routes, you'll need a helmet that’s comfortable and well-ventilated for long days, LED lights front and rear (useful if you start early, in low light, or go through tunnels or dense forest), and one or two bottles to stay hydrated in remote sections. A key point, especially in summer, when high temperatures work against us. It’s advisable to drink regularly even if you’re not thirsty, to avoid dehydration.
Since many stages combine tarmac and trails, it’s also important to carry basic tools in case something on the bike needs adjustment. A great option to keep everything in one place is a multitool from the Eltin Workshop Series.
A bell is also recommended to alert walkers on the paths or trails you pass. With the right gear from Eltin, you'll be able to enjoy all these routes in safety.
A pair of glasses to protect you from the sun and insects on fast descents is another must-have item on your route.
Finally, when it comes to clothing, consider wearing a lightweight summer Eltin jersey as well as a comfortable pair of bib shorts that allows you to ride for long hours in the saddle. Likewise, a pair of short gloves, light but padded, will certainly add comfort to every day on the bike.
And finally, don’t forget the sunscreen — the views are beautiful, but the sun is relentless. With the right kit and accessories, your rides will be 100% fun in the sun.
