Are you tired of being stuck in traffic or taking the same old routes to work or school? Why not try a more adventurous and environmentally friendly mode of transportation – cycling or walking! Both activities allow you to explore different areas, get some exercise, and help reduce your carbon footprint. Here are some of the best cycling and walking routes for adventure seekers that can also serve as your mode of transportation.
Cycling Routes for Adventure Seekers
The North Sea Cycle Route
The North Sea Cycle Route is one of the longest cycling routes in the world, spanning over 6,000 kilometers and crossing through eight different countries. It offers stunning coastal views, historic towns, and diverse scenery. The route starts and ends in England, passing through Scotland, Norway, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. While this route might be too long for daily transportation, you can choose a shorter section that suits your daily commute.
Lake Champlain Bikeway
For those living in the northeastern United States, the Lake Champlain Bikeway is an excellent choice for daily commuting. The route covers over 480 kilometers and takes you through picturesque scenery, historic sites, and charming towns. You can choose to cycle along the lake’s shore or take a more inland route, depending on your preference.
Route Verte
Route Verte is the longest cycling route in North America, stretching for over 5,000 kilometers in the province of Quebec, Canada. The route features breathtaking scenery, including mountains, rivers, and forests, and takes you through charming towns and cities. Route Verte is not only a great choice for daily commuting but also for weekend getaways or longer cycling tours.
Walking Routes for Adventure Seekers
The Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage route that attracts thousands of walkers every year. The route starts in different locations across Spain, Portugal, and France, ending at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. The route covers hundreds of kilometers, and while some people choose to walk the entire route, you can also choose a shorter section that suits your daily commute. The Camino de Santiago is not only a spiritual journey but also a chance to explore historic towns, enjoy local cuisine, and meet other travelers.
The Cotswold Way
The Cotswold Way is a 164-kilometer walking route that takes you through picturesque villages, lush green valleys, and scenic hills in southwest England. The route starts in Chipping Campden and ends in Bath, passing through historic sites such as Roman forts, medieval castles, and ancient stone circles. The Cotswold Way is not only a great choice for daily commuting but also for weekend getaways or longer walking tours.
The Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is a famous trekking route in Peru that offers stunning views of the Andes mountains, cloud forests, and ancient Inca ruins. The route is over 40 kilometers long and takes four days to complete, with the destination being the iconic Machu Picchu. While the Inca Trail might not be suitable for daily commuting, it is an excellent choice for an unforgettable adventure trip.
Benefits of Cycling and Walking for Transportation
Cycling and walking offer numerous benefits, both for the individual and the environment. By choosing to cycle or walk instead of driving, you can:
- Save money on gas and parking fees
- Get some exercise, which can improve your physical and mental health
- Reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment
- Avoid traffic congestion and arrive at your destination faster in some cases
Final Thoughts
Cycling and walking are not only great ways to explore new places and stay active, but also eco-friendly modes of transportation. Whether you choose to cycle or walk, there are numerous routes available that can take you on exciting journeys while also serving as your daily commute. So why not try something new and adventurous the next time you need to travel?