From Slovenia to the USA: The Ultimate Guide to International Cycling Tours

Do We Make Tours Only in Slovenia? Of Course Not!

Slovenia is where our passion first took root, but it’s far from the only place we explore. After seeing how much riders enjoyed climbing the Julian Alps or rolling through emerald valleys, we realized the spirit of Polka Dot Cycling could shine just as brightly in other parts of Europe—and even beyond. Our goal is to bring you top-notch cycling experiences wherever the roads call your name.

Iconic European Cycling Destinations You’ll Love

Europe is a paradise for cyclists, offering diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and routes that cater to every skill level. From challenging alpine climbs to scenic coastal roads, each destination provides unique adventures that combine physical challenge with breathtaking scenery.

Conquer the Dolomites: Italy’s Legendary Climbs

When it comes to iconic climbs, few regions match the Dolomites in northern Italy. Famous passes like Monte Zoncolan, Passo Pordoi or Passo Giau challenge even the most experienced riders, but the rewards are immense—jaw-dropping landscapes and a palpable sense of cycling history.

Ride Like a Pro in the French Alps

Farther west, the French Alps offer legendary routes like Alpe d’Huez and Col du Galibier, often featured in the Tour de France. Cyclists who conquer these climbs become part of a storied tradition, feeling the echoes of past champions in every switchback.

Swiss Alpine Adventures: Smooth Roads & Stunning Views

Meanwhile, in Switzerland with Saint Gotthard Pass, Albula Pass or Furka Pass – also well-known to fans of cinema as it was the location for one of James Bond’s famous car chases in Goldfinger , you’ll find a blend of pristine alpine vistas and smoother roads, ideal for those who appreciate jaw-dropping mountain views mixed with Swiss efficiency.

The Pyrenees: A Raw and Romantic Cycling Experience

Straddling the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees provide a quieter alternative to the French Alps. Don’t be fooled, though—these mountains can be every bit as challenging. Legendary climbs like the Col du Tourmalet test riders’ endurance, but the relative solitude of the region offers an immersive experience. Rustic villages, local cheeses, and sweeping valleys punctuate long stretches of winding roads, making it a place that feels both raw and romantic.

Mediterranean Magic: Cycling Tours in Cyprus and Mallorca

Prefer sunny routes and Mediterranean flair? Especially at the beginning of cycling season Cyprus and Mallorca are fantastic options. In Cyprus, you can ride along coastal roads with the sea on one side and rugged hills on the other. Spring is an especially popular time for pro teams that often train there under mild, sunny skies. Mallorca is another hotbed for cycling, known for its smooth roads, diverse terrain, and cycling-friendly culture. Add in charming seaside towns and you have a recipe for a tour that balances effort with laid-back island life.

Beyond Europe: Unforgettable Cycling Tours in the USA

While Europe offers legendary cycling routes, the USA boasts equally impressive landscapes perfect for two-wheeled adventures. Whether you crave the rugged beauty of mountain passes, the serenity of coastal highways, or the vastness of desert trails, America’s diverse terrain promises unforgettable rides for every cyclist.

California Dreaming: Coastal Rides & Mountain Challenges

Polka Dot Cycling also caters to riders looking for adventures beyond Europe. If you’re intrigued by the vast landscapes of the United States, California offers incredible routes that blend coastal beauty with world-class climbs. One of our favorite rides takes you from the Bay Area to Sonoma, where you’ll experience some of Northern California’s most stunning and challenging terrain. Iconic climbs like King’s Ridge and Geysers Road deliver breathtaking scenery and a true test of endurance, winding through redwood forests, rolling vineyards, and remote backroads with near-perfect tarmac.

Discover the American West: Epic Routes Around Lake Utah

There’s also the allure of Utah, with routes around Lake Utah that feature sweeping desert vistas and towering canyons. Whether you’re aiming for challenging elevation gains or scenic, open roads, the American West offers a sense of grandeur you won’t find anywhere else.

What Makes a Destination Perfect for Cycling?

What makes a great cycling destination? For us, it’s about a combination of scenic beauty, road quality, and local culture. We look for places where cyclists feel welcome—where drivers are patient, where accommodations are bike-friendly, and where the local cuisine is hearty enough to refuel after a long day in the saddle. Each of our destinations has been tested by our team, ensuring we can vouch for the routes, the scenery, and the overall experience.

A Ride to Remember: Conquering Monte Zoncolan

I’ll never forget a trip to the Dolomites, when we had the infamous Monte Zoncolan on the schedule for the next day. Sitting around the dinner table that evening, the group was split—some were eager to conquer one of cycling’s most legendary climbs, while others, doubting their fitness, considered taking the longer, easier valley route instead. The decision wasn’t easy. Everyone knew Zoncolan’s reputation—brutally steep gradients, relentless switchbacks, and a climb that doesn’t forgive.

By morning, they had made their choice: they were going for it. Some were nervous, unsure if they’d make it, but they clipped in and started the ascent. The next thing I remember are the tears in their eyes when they reached the top. It was a moment impossible to describe—pure emotion, exhaustion, pride, and the realization that they had conquered something that, just hours before, seemed impossible. Watching them embrace, overwhelmed with joy, reminded me exactly why we take on challenges like this. These iconic destinations aren’t just about the climbs themselves—they’re about the personal victories, the unforgettable moments, and the stories that last long after the ride is over.

Tailor-Made Cycling Tours to Match Your Style

No two travelers are alike, which is why we often customize our European tours. Some riders want to hop from one mountain range to another—tackling the Dolomites, then the Swiss Alps in a single trip. Others prefer to plant themselves in one region and delve deep into its culture. With Polka Dot Cycling, you have the freedom to shape your journey. We can design routes that suit your fitness level and appetite for challenge, schedule rest days for sightseeing, or incorporate local events like food festivals or small-town cycling races.

Destinations vary, and so should your gear. From lightweight climbing bikes in the Alps to comfortable all-rounders for rolling terrain, we ensure you have the best equipment for each region. If you’re concerned about the toll of steep or prolonged climbs, a carbon e-bike might be the perfect compromise, letting you tackle iconic ascents without draining your energy reserves. The focus is on enjoyment and discovery, not just logging brutal miles.

Ready to Ride? Let’s Plan Your Next Cycling Adventure

The world of cycling extends far beyond Slovenia’s borders. Whether you’re dreaming of alpine switchbacks, Mediterranean coastlines, or the vast expanse of the American West, Polka Dot Cycling offers curated experiences that capture the essence of each destination. Ready to explore the Dolomites, French Alps, Swiss mountains, Pyrenees, Cyprus, Mallorca, or even California and Lake Utah? Let us help you find the perfect route, the right gear, and an unforgettable journey on two wheels. Wherever you choose, we’re here to make it feel like home—except with breathtaking views and a hint of exhilaration you’ll remember long after the trip ends.

— Miha, Founder & Owner Polka Dot Cycling