Why the Baltics Should Be Your Next Cycling Adventure – Even If You Haven’t Ridden in Years
When most people picture Europe, places like France, Italy or Spain come to mind. But tucked away in Northern Europe, along the shores of the Baltic Sea, are three remarkable countries that remain Europe’s best-kept secret: Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.
They’re known collectively as the Baltics, and if you’ve never heard much about them, you’re not alone.
But that’s exactly why now is the perfect time to go – before everyone else catches on.
In July 2026, we’re heading there for a 12-day cycling tour, and we’d love you to come with us. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or haven’t been on a bike in years, this journey is designed for curious travellers who want something off the beaten path, but fully supported and deeply enriching.
Here’s why the Baltics might just be your next favourite adventure.

Where are the Baltics, and why should you care?
Let’s start with the basics. Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia sit along the eastern edge of the Baltic Sea, nestled between Poland, Russia and Finland. These three small countries regained independence from Soviet rule in the early 1990s – and what they’ve done since is nothing short of extraordinary.
You’ll find UNESCO-listed medieval cities, vibrant modern capitals, lush forests, wild beaches, and an incredibly resilient culture shaped by centuries of occupation, resistance, and renewal.
The region is safe, welcoming, and surprisingly modern, and yet, still flying under the radar for most Australian travellers.
And it’s not just beautiful – it’s buzzing with energy. Last year Lithuania topped the World Happiness Report rankings for young people under 30, beating out countries like Denmark, Finland and the Netherlands. It’s a testament to how much optimism and opportunity now exists in this once-overlooked part of Europe.
👉 Read the article in The Guardian

Three countries. One unforgettable journey.
This isn’t your average “tick the boxes” tour. Over 12 days, you’ll cycle through three different countries, with just the right mix of scenic countryside, historic cities, coastlines and local life.
You’ll visit:
- Vilnius – a baroque gem with a bohemian heart
- Riga – known for its Art Nouveau architecture and charming old town
- Tallinn – a fairytale-like medieval capital with a cutting-edge twist
But it’s not just about cities. You’ll ride (or drive) through forests, lakes, farmland and coastal paths, and we’ll stop for local meals, cultural sites, and personal stories from a region that’s both complex and captivating.
And best of all? You won’t be roughing it.
This is a fully supported cycling tour – meaning:
- Ride as much or as little as you like
- Use a regular bike or e-bike
- A support vehicle follows the group (hop in anytime)
- Daily distances are moderate and achievable
- Accommodation is comfortable and well-located

Not just for the hardcore cyclists
We know what you might be thinking.
“I haven’t ridden a bike in years…”
“Will I hold the group back?”
“Is this just for super-fit, Lycra-clad people?”
Not at all.
This tour is designed specifically for active, curious people who want to explore in a more immersive, connected way. If you enjoy gentle exercise, fresh air, and discovering places at a relaxed pace, this is for you.
You can cycle more on some days and less on others – the choice is yours. And with e-bikes available, hills become a breeze.
A cultural crossroads with stories to tell
One of the most fascinating aspects of this tour is the history and culture of the Baltics.
This region has been shaped by centuries of occupation – from the Teutonic Knights and Swedish Empire to Nazi and Soviet rule. You’ll learn how each country reclaimed its identity, and how its people live with (and rise above) a complex past.

Expect:
- Powerful stories of independence and resistance
- Pass-by castles, palaces and Soviet-era landmarks
- Encounters with local artisans, historians and everyday people
- And plenty of delicious food and drink along the way
In Latvia’s capital, Riga, you’ll have the chance to visit the Museum of the Occupation – a deeply moving, must-see museum that offers an unflinching look at life under two brutal regimes. We’ve written more about what to expect in our dedicated article:
👉 A Brown Box in a Colourful City: Riga’s Museum of Occupation
There’s a real sense of contrast and contradiction in this part of the world – past and present, East and West, old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity – and this tour gives you front-row access to it all.
Final thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a trip that’s a little different, not overrun with tourists, and designed for real people with a sense of adventure – this is it.
✅ You’ll ride through three countries.
✅ Eat well. Sleep well. Learn a lot.
✅ Make new friends.
✅ And come home with stories from places most travellers haven’t even heard of yet.
🗓️ Join us for the Baltics Cycling Tour
📅 12–23 July 2026 | 12 days | Small group | Fully supported
🚴 Ride at your own pace within the group | 🌍 Explore lesser-known Europe | 💬 Meet locals & hear their stories | ➡ Click here for Itinerary
