Some roads are not just a way to get from one place to another. They are the destination itself — routes that require weeks or months to complete and leave a lasting impression long after the last kilometer.

These pages are built from firsthand experience, but there’s always more to add. If you have questions about any of these routes — timing, conditions, gear, whatever comes to mind — leave a comment below. Questions often point to exactly what’s missing, and answering them is how these posts keep growing.

Major Routes

Routes that justify planning an entire trip around them.

Karakoram Highway

Pakistan & China — Three mountain ranges, remote side valleys and some of the most dramatic scenery on earth.

Read more: The Karakoram Highway – From Kashgar to Islamabad by Bicycle

Pamir Highway

Tajikistan — The roof of the world. High altitude, empty roads and landscapes that feel like another planet.

Read more: The Pamir Highway – and beyond

Ruta 40

Argentina — High plateau, mountain passes, wine regions and desert. The first 1,500 km alone are worth the trip.

Read more: Ruta 40: Cycling Argentina’s Most Legendary Road

Notable Roads

Shorter routes — exceptional enough to plan a detour around.

Shimanami Kaido

Japan — Island hopping across the Seto Inland Sea on a dedicated cycling route. Read more

Highway 1

California, USA — Coastal riding with views of the Pacific.

Looking for gear or logistics advice for your next trip? Check out Gear and Logistics.