If you are looking for an unusual cycling holiday destination where to combine bikes and sightseeing, then this post is for you!
You probably never thought of Sri Lanka as a cycling holiday destination, neither I did.
Back in March I had some days off and I wanted two things: explore new places and ride. I started researching exotic destinations suitable for cycling, then came across Across Ceylon, a cycling tour operator from Sri Lanka, it was a match.
Usually, I create travel itineraries by myself, I love the researching as much as I like the journey: spending time looking for the best spots, documenting on local traditions and pinning in Google Maps random street food corners I must try. But sometimes, especially when running short of time, it feels nice having expert people taking care of everything. And for this trip the only things I had to care about were packing cycling kits and bikinis and booking flights. The rides planned were a mix of gravel and road rides and I decided not to bring my own bikes (it always adds a lot of fuss to the trip) and rely on Across Ceylon rental fleet.
First things first: a full immersion of Ceylonese culture
As soon as I land in Sri Lanka, I find myself fully immersed in the green shades of the lush nature and in thousands, millions, of palm trees.
The first day of the trip is about recovering from the flights and fully immerse myself in the Country culture. Off from the plane, I hop on a bull cart before and a rowboat later, until I reach the shores of a small lake, where a local family welcomes me and puts on a cooking class.
The cuisine to me is one of the best ways to connect to a new culture and I loved preparing different dishes from scratch using traditional utensils and dosing the many spices. Food in Sri Lanka is spicy and full of different flavours, but never without three ingredients, that can be found in the iconic sambol: coconut, lime and chillies, a fresh and tangy combination I loved.
After some rest and some more spicy food it is time to embrace the first ride of the trip starting in the Habarana area.
Habarana: gravel riding and hiking in Sigiriya
Gravel riding around Habarana is a quiet and relaxing adventure: the landscapes are diversified and the nature changes remarkably. The trails are mostly in good conditions and the ride is always accompanied by an incredible wildlife. The gravel paths run in the silence of the nature, only occasionally crossing villages. When riding in Sri Lanka, don’t forget that the temperatures are always high, as well as the humidity level, so hydratation is essential. Luckily Sri Lanka national drink will keep you amazingly hydratated: the fresh King Coconuts can be found everywhere and they are not only delicious, but also packed with electrolytes.
The gravel roads will bring you to the region major landmark: Sigiriya, the majestic Lion Rock that is an ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sigiriya rises above the surrounding plains and you can take all the small stairs and climb the giant rock to the top, where you will be gifted with an outstanding view and a magic sunset.
And after the quiet gravel roads of Habarana, it is time to change tires and head to the next destination.
Road riding from Habarana to Ella
The second ride of the trip is on my terrain: tarmac. At the beginning I was a bit worried by the traffic and I was happy to find out it is intense only on the main roads and when crossing villages. The roads are also in good conditions and mostly run on very smooth tarmac. The route takes you through lush palm forests that provide a much needed protection from the sun and gentle rolling hills.
The destination of the ride is the charming Ella, a mountain town where air cools down and you can enjoy a laid-back vibe and some remarkable hikes. Don’t miss the hike to Little Adam’s Peak, that features a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding nature, and a visit to the very scenic Nine Arch Bridge and the Ravana Waterfalls.
Road ride from Ella to Yala National Park
The road ride from Ella to Yala National Park was probably the most unforgettable one. From the crispy mountain air of Ella, the route brings you in the hearth of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s wildlife reserve. It is on the smooth and straight road that goes through the park where I crossed roads with a wild and giant elephant, an experience I won’t easily forget. Please avoid going too close to the elephants and giving them food, they are wild animals and can be dangerous.
After meeting my new friend, in Yala I also experienced a Safari. During the guided jeep tour I was lucky enough to spot a leopard (!) and a sloth bear, as well as a variety of other animals.
The end: relax by the sea
After the riding and the heat, the trip comes to an end with some much needed total relax days on the sea in the Weilligama area. When here, don’t miss sunset at Coconut Tree Hill and a visit to Weligama Koggala Beach, where you can spot the peculiar standing fishermen. Sadly I found out they mostly fake the fishing for the tourists and the Instagram pictures, IG-Culture at its finest.
While relaxing by the sea (where as you can see I tried to export the Greek Freddo Espresso and Freddo Capuccino culture), don’t miss the chance to experience an ayurvedic massage. There are plenty of places offering them, chose them carefuly. I went to this place (Spa Station Midigama) and had the best (and cheapest) massage of my life.
And just like that the trip comes to an end.
Where should I cycle next?
Ginevra Rides & Travels 