Epic Bike Rides of the World by Lonely Planet

Epic Bike Rides of the World
by the editors at Lonely Planet [910.202 Lon] 

Filled with gorgeous photography and helpful maps, this travelogue from the folks at the travel book company Lonely Planet is a catalog of some of the most beautiful and challenging biking routes to be found around the globe. The book is organized geographically, with chapters covering Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania. Within each chapter, there are anywhere from two (Africa) to nineteen (Europe) highlighted rides. Examples include: “Riding the Rif” (Morocco); “Colorado Beer Bike Tour”; “Mountain Biking in Moab”; “Manhattan Circumnavigation”; “Bhutanese Dragon Ride”; “Down the Danube”; “A Corsican Challenge”; “Into the Outer Hebrides”; “Beaches and Bicycles in Adelaide”; “Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail” (New Zealand).

When asking biking enthusiasts for their favorite “epic” rides, everyone had a different definition of “epic”. Thus, this book includes everything from smooth, even, well-paved and super-safe commuter paths — perfect for family outings or a relaxing afternoon, to the most remote, challenging, arduous off-road adventures only serious, dedicated cyclists will be capable of tackling. All the trails listed, however, have detailed descriptions of what you’ll see along the way, and what cultural elements you can look forward to enjoying — including wonderful “Toolkit” sidebars telling you where you can rent bicycles, where to start your ride, where to eat/stay on your trip, where to shop along the way, and weblinks with additional information. For me, however, the best part of the book — in addition to the beautiful scenic photographs of both the trails and the views from the trails — is the “More Like This” listed after each highlighted ride. Numerous other noteworthy trails or rides are listed that are similar to the highlighted selection, but which get only a brief description. Included among the More Like This for All-American rides is our neighboring RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Ride Across Iowa)! Also listed are the locations of some of the most famous bike races across the globe, for those wanting to pay homage to the challenges faced by professional cyclists, without the stresses of taking on hundreds of racers.

Whether your take your bikes with you on vacation, or simply want to rent some two-wheeled transportation when you get to your destination, Epic Bike Rides of the World will inspire you to visit some beautiful spots and contemplate the world around you in a new way!

Recommended by Scott C.
Bennett Martin Public Library

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