Europe is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and scenic routes in the world, making it a mecca for motorcycle enthusiasts. From winding mountain roads to stunning coastal highways, the continent has an array of exhilarating routes to explore.
If you’re a U.S. biker looking for the ultimate riding adventure, read on to discover amazing motorcycle roads in Europe that will leave you with unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
Photo by Egor Myznik on Unsplash.
Plan the Trip
Before embarking on a motorcycle trip to Europe, there are several things to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, choosing the right travel destination is crucial. Research the specific laws and regulations for motorcyclists in each country, and prepare all necessary documents, such as a passport, driver’s license, and insurance information.
Consider the climate and terrain of the region, as well as the level of traffic and road conditions. It’s also essential to plan your route and have a detailed itinerary, including accommodation, rest stops, and fuel stops.
When it comes to transporting your motorcycle, use a reputable shipping company to ensure it arrives in Europe safely. The company may ship your motorcycle directly from the U.S. to Western European countries due to the direct port access. Or you may choose the closest port to your intended final destination.
Europe’s major container ports include Rotterdam (Netherlands), Le Havre (France), Bremerhaven (Germany), Antwerp (Belgium), Thamesport (UK), Dublin (Ireland), Oslo (Norway), Aarhus (Denmark), Gothenburg (Sweden), Barcelona (Spain), Genoa (Italy), and Marseille (France).
Research is essential to choosing the right shipping service. You can read online reviews or ask for recommendations from those who have experience in shipping vehicles abroad. Additionally, visit the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) website to check the credentials of the company and make sure they meet the necessary safety and regulatory standards.
Among the many international shipping services, A1AutoTransport is one of the most experienced companies with a long history of transporting vehicles within the country and internationally. Their expertise in the transportation business is extensive, and they have a reputation for providing high-quality services.
Top 5 Motorcycle Roads in Europe
Here are some of the best motorcycle roads in Europe:
1. The Stelvio Pass, Italy
The Stelvio Pass spans approximately 50 km from Stelvio to Bormio. Despite being constructed almost 200 years ago to connect Lombardia with the Austrian Empire, the current road closely follows the original one. It leads to a maximum altitude of 2757 m, making it the second-highest road in the Alps.
The Stelvio Pass offers an exhilarating experience for riders with breathtaking Alpine scenery and a total of 65 hairpin turns, 48 of which are located on the northern side that ascends more steeply. This road has hosted several Giro d’Italia bicycle race competitions and is rich in sports history.
2. The Transfagarasan, Romania
The Transfagarasan road, which runs through a glacier valley, is a must-see destination for riders looking to experience the beauty of the Carpathian mountains. This 150 km stretch of road offers diverse landscapes, including waterfalls, lakes, and a water dam.
The area is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including chamois goats and bears, which can be spotted along the way. This is the second-highest motorable road in Romania after the Transalpina Road. Due to its high altitude (a peak altitude of 2034 m), the road is only open during the summer.
3. The Atlantic Road, Norway
The Atlantic Road is an engineering masterpiece that took 13 years of planning to complete. This 8.3 km road links various islands and is exposed to extreme weather conditions, making it one of Europe’s toughest roads. However, the risk of traversing a road that is located close to the North Pole is worth it for the awe-inspiring views of the ocean and the mountains.
The road also boasts eight bridges, with the most famous being Storseisundet, which spans 260 m. It’s renowned for its surrounding architecture that creates an optical illusion, making the bridge look as if it’s disappearing into the sky. The bridge’s unique design has been featured in several advertisements, adding to its fame.
4. Gotthard Pass, Switzerland
The pass is situated on a major road that connects Zurich and Lugano. It has undergone several upgrades since the first road opened in 1830 to accommodate growing traffic. These include the construction of a 15 km rail tunnel in 1882, a road tunnel that opened in 1980, and the longest rail tunnel in the world (spanning 57 km) in 2016.
Despite the modern upgrades, the old road retains its charm, with its original cobblestones still visible on the turns. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of lakes, including the largest one, Lago della Piazza. There is also a museum that offers a wealth of information on the history of the road. However, the pass is only open during daylight hours from June to October.
5. Col de Turini, France
Col de Turini is a perfect place for riders who love challenges. The road has been used in both the Monte Carlo Rally and the Tour de France to test the skills of the world’s best athletes. When viewed on Google Maps, the road offers spaghetti-like twists and turns.
With fast-changing weather, incredible vertical drop views, and 34 hairpin turns leading to the summit, the Col de Turini demands the utmost riding skill and will push your adrenaline to new heights. The road connects La Bolene with Sospel, featuring a 5.1% incline. Additionally, there is a steeper road, the southwest D2566, with a 7.2% incline.
A Stress-Free Way to Start Your Adventure
Europe is a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a variety of thrilling routes that cater to all levels of riding expertise. Yet, meticulous planning and research before traveling are as crucial. To have a stress-free and efficient way to start your adventure, make sure to only work with a seasoned, accomplished shipping company to transport your motorcycle to Europe.
They will give you peace of mind, ensuring your motorcycle is in good hands and arrives at your destination as scheduled. This also allows you to focus on planning your route and preparing for your journey without the added stress of transportation logistics.
Written by Jason Mueller. Jason loves to travel and especially loves to travel on motorcycles. He is passionate about writing while on the road, as it inspires him. He looks forward to his next motorcycle adventure.
