Some rides are just made for motorcycles. The world is full of gorgeous routes, but these trips are best enjoyed on the back of a bike. Exploring nature on a motorcycle gives you a chance to experience the scenery up close and personal. You don’t have to pull over on the side of the road and get out of your car to see the leaves on the trees or feel the wind in your hair. It’s just you and the open road.
Some of these routes feature lots of twists and turns, while others can be quite remote. Don’t forget to bring along a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet so you can quickly call for help or look up directions without getting off your bike. Be sure to add these scenic motorcycle routes to your to-do list to experience the best of what nature has to offer.
Pyrenees Loop, France and Spain
This 1,500-mile-long route takes you from the heart of Spain to the coast of France. It starts in the city of Bilbao. Head east on N260, which will take you through the Pyrenees Mountains, which separate the Iberian Peninsula from the rest of Europe. The route weaves through the mountain countryside, full of quaint villages, hiking paths and astonishing views from the area’s many cliffsides and lookout points.
You will eventually hit the city of La Seu d’Urgell, a small mountain. It’s a great spot to refuel, catch a good night’s sleep and stock up on snacks before getting back on the road.
The path will then take you north to Andorra, a tiny independent principality that sits between France and Spain. The area is best known for its ski resorts, tourism and duty-free shopping. The country recently imposed a sales tax, but electronics and luxury items tend to be much cheaper in Andorra than in France or Spain. However, if you buy too many goods, you might not be able to get them home on your motorcycle.
The route then dips back into Spain for a short time where you have the chance to visit the Dali Museum in the city of Figueres. From there, you head east along the Mediterranean Coast until you reach Biarritz in France. This route features some of the most extreme twists and turns in the world so be sure to go slow and avoid driving at night.
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The Great Ocean Road, Australia
If you manage to make it out to Australia, this landmark stretch of coastal highway is sure to be the crown jewel of your trip. The entire trip is only 180 miles, so you should be able to do it in just a day or less.
The trip starts in the city of Melbourne where you’ll head north towards Peterborough. The Great Ocean Road is by no means the most efficient route, but it will help you enjoy the trip. The road winds through stretches of coastal rainforests, stunning beaches and views you only get to see in movies.
The highlight of the trip for many is Shipwreck Cove, famous for its steep limestone formations, known as The Twelve Apostles. Some even say they look like a person’s fingers rising up through the shore. In case you’re wondering, the area gets its name from the many ships that crashed along the shore when it was used as a trade route in the 18th Century. Cap it off with a restful night at Peterborough to enjoy the views of the coast.
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 California and the American West, U.S.
If you’ve always wanted to explore the great American West, you can knock everything off your bucket list by taking the long way between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Many people prefer sticking to the coast, but Route 66 will take you through the deserts of Arizona — including some of the country’s most iconic national parks — before bringing you back to civilization in California. The entire trip consists of around 3,500 miles, so buckle in for a long trip.
Starting in L.A., you’ll head east on 66 until you get into the old mining towns of the American desert. From there, you’ll hit the Grand Canyon before winding up to Monument Valley right on the border of Nevada. It’s a great place to camp and soak in the sights before getting back on your bike.
You’ll then head north towards the Natural Bridges National Park. The road weaves back west, giving you a chance to see Zion and Bryce national parks, both of which are perfect for off-road driving. Give yourself some time to explore the open desert instead of just sticking to the road.
The route brings you back into California where you can visit Yosemite National Park before hitting San Francisco on the coast. You’ll pass through the Mojave Desert and the infamous Death Valley. This stretch of the drive can be fairly monotonous, so feel free to hit the throttle.
It’s the ideal trip for camping lovers and those who love to leave the civilized world behind.
These routes aren’t for the inexperienced. Use helmet communication to contact your loved ones or the authorities if you get lost or injured. Beware that some of these areas likely won’t have cell service, so you may want to bring a backup radio and paper maps.
Use Bluetooth motorcycle helmet speakers to make calls without taking your hands off the handlebar. You can use your voice to get directions and check in with family for a safer ride.
Nature is calling! Keep this information in mind as you prepare for the ultimate motorcycle road trip.
