This review is written in the context of being a regular cyclist and having cycled with Exodus “Coast to Coast India” and “Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama”.
This trip definitely ranks third in that list. Vietnam is a long, thin country, with 1000+ miles from HCM to Hanoi – it is unclear on what basis the 320 cycling miles on this trip were chosen. Many days the routes are long and featureless, the riding punctuated by aggressive air horns from passing lorries. Some days felt like cycling for cycling sake – starting at a random point out of town, and finishing somewhere equally random.
Long periods on the bus.
That said the segments of cycling along quiet backroads, through traditional fishing villages etc was delightful.
Days are full on – early breakfast and start and late arrivals into destinations leaving very limited chance to appreciate the towns and facilities.
The stops at Whale Island, Hoi An were a welcome relief. The trip to Ha Long Bay at the end was superb.
Croatia Cycling Holidays
Our Croatia Cycling Tours
Top 5 Towns to Explore on Croatia Cycling Tours
Hvar: With its narrow, zig-zagging streets, Gothic palaces and trendy seafood restaurants, the Dalmatian port town of Hvar is a firm favourite for foodies and history lovers. It has been compared to a mini-Venice and its swanky harbour filled with yachts often attracts an A-list crowd in the summer, but there’s lots more to explore here. Walk among the ancient walls to discover striking cathedrals and centuries-old architecture or head up to the hilltop fortress for panoramic coastal views. You’ll also find several sun-drenched beaches and inland, sweet-smelling lavender fields.
Dubrovnik Old Town: Hugged on all sides by its imposing city walls, Dubrovnik Old Town is packed with history and old-world charm. The walls are some of the best-preserved in the world and you can enjoy the most incredible views as you walk along them. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the terracotta-tiled roofs of the city make Dubrovnik instantly recognisable from the coast. The streets of the Old Town are lined with churches, ornate palaces and fountains, creating a sublime backdrop for its many restaurants. WE recommend taking a pitstop on cycling holidays in Croatia to indulge in some of the finest seafood dishes in Dalmatia.
Pula: Right at the tip of the Istrian Peninsula, Pula is mostly known for its well-preserved Roman amphitheatres and ancient temples. Among its meandering streets, you’ll also find historical landmarks, stylish boutiques, galleries and restaurants. You might even fancy hopping off your bike to hydrate at one of the open-air bars where you can mix with the locals, or head down to the vibrant harbour and watch the yachts come into dock. A boat ride from Pula to Brijuni National Park will introduce you to the island’s impressive Roman villas, Brijuni zoo and Byzantine villages, where you can learn about the history of Marshal Josip Tito.
Korcula: At the heart of Korcula Island lies Korcula town with its marble-fronted buildings, red roofs and ancient port. The town stands beneath the gaze of the Dinaric Alps and is a true gem worth exploring on trips to Croatia. Many visitors come to sample the world-famous wines and fish stew, but the stunning scenery is a huge lure too. The medieval walls wrap around narrow cobbled streets where there’s a real air of history and rustic charm. Korcula is often compared to Dubrovnik, although it is less frequented by the tourist crowd. This is a great place to delve deeper into the soul of Dalmatia and experience life as a local.
Rovinj: Also known as the Venice of Istria, Rovinj is made up of a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and red-roofed houses that tumble down to the sea. Undoubtedly, it’s a Dalmatian beauty but there’s so much more to Rovinj than its aesthetics. Walk along the colourful harbour or visit the 18th-century St Euphemia’s Basilica where you’ll find noteworthy artwork and ornate frescoes. Winding up to St Euphemia is Grisia, a cobblestone street lined with art galleries and local, artisanal crafts, which transforms into a cultural hub in the summer.
Keith Sexton Cycling Vietnam
Tracy Meakin Petra & Wadi Rum by BikeThis was the most amazing trip. Well organised from the moment we landed in Amman. The wonderful sites we saw were enhanced by the fantastic cycle routes we took. The cycling was as described – so in the main downhill through beautiful rural countryside. The roads very very good and the support team exceptional. There were a couple of really steep climbs in parts which i struggled with especially in the heat so I took the support option and out my bike on the back of the truck and rejoined the tour at the top. The sights we saw en route would!not have been possible if we had been on a bus. The hotel s were good quality. We would thoroughly recommend the trip
Tracy Meakin Petra & Wadi Rum by BikeThis was the most amazing trip. Well organised from the moment we landed in Amman. The wonderful sites we saw were enhanced by the fantastic cycle routes we took. The cycling was as described – so in the main downhill through beautiful rural countryside. The roads very very good and the support team exceptional. There were a couple of really steep climbs in parts which i struggled with especially in the heat so I took the support option and out my bike on the back of the truck and rejoined the tour at the top. The sights we saw en route would!not have been possible if we had been on a bus. The hotel s were good quality. We would thoroughly recommend the trip
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