Top Cycling Routes for Scenic Exploration

Top Cycling Routes for Scenic Exploration in Bali: A Journey Through the Island of the Gods

There is a particular magic to exploring Bali on two wheels—a slow, rhythmic way to experience the island’s tropical tapestry, its rice terraces shimmering in the morning light, the smiles of local villagers, and the scent of frangipani drifting on the breeze. As someone who grew up winding through the hills of Montenegro, the gentle cadence of cycling through Bali’s undulating landscapes evokes a deep nostalgia and a sense of connection to the world’s wild, enduring beauty. Here, I invite you to discover Bali’s top cycling routes, each chosen for their soul-stirring vistas and immersive encounters with local life.

---

1. Ubud to Tegalalang: The Heartbeat of Bali’s Green

Route: Ubud → Tegalalang Rice Terrace → Sebatu Village → Tirta Empul Temple

Begin your journey in the cultural heart of Bali, the vibrant town of Ubud, where the early morning mist lingers over lush rice fields. Pedal northwards through small villages, where artisans carve wood and weave offerings for the gods. Soon, the landscape opens into the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a place where each emerald stair steps into eternity.

Pause to savor the view, perhaps with a cup of kopi Bali at a small warung overlooking the terraces. Continue through Sebatu Village, where life moves at a gentle pace, and end your ride at the sacred Tirta Empul Temple, where holy water flows from ancient springs, offering blessings to pilgrims and travelers alike.

Tip: You can search for these locations on Google Maps by typing: “Ubud”, “Tegalalang Rice Terrace”, “Sebatu Village”, and “Tirta Empul Temple”.

---

2. Kintamani Crater Loop: A Ride Above the Clouds

Route: Kintamani → Penelokan → Toya Bungkah → Batur Natural Hot Spring → Kintamani

For those seeking a more exhilarating adventure, the highland region of Kintamani offers a cycling route with breathtaking panoramas of Mount Batur and its shimmering volcanic lake. Set off from Penelokan, where the world seems to spread beneath your feet, the air brisk and invigorating.

Descend towards Toya Bungkah, a lakeside village where fishermen mend their nets and steam rises from the earth. Soothe your muscles in the mineral-rich pools of Batur Natural Hot Spring before looping back to the crater’s rim, your soul and senses refreshed.

Tip: You can search for these locations on Google Maps by typing: “Kintamani”, “Penelokan”, “Toya Bungkah”, and “Batur Natural Hot Spring”.

---

3. East Bali Coastal Road: From Candidasa to Amed

Route: Candidasa → Tenganan Village → Virgin Beach (Pantai Pasir Putih) → Amed

The eastern shore of Bali is a place where time slows, mountains meet the sea, and the road hugs the wild coastline. Start in Candidasa, a tranquil seaside town. Cycle inland towards Tenganan Village, one of Bali’s oldest communities, famed for its ancient traditions and double ikat weaving.

Returning to the coast, take a detour to Virgin Beach (Pantai Pasir Putih), where turquoise waves lap at powdery sand. The route finishes in Amed, a fishing village beloved by divers and dreamers, where the shadow of Mount Agung looms over black sand bays.

Tip: You can search for these locations on Google Maps by typing: “Candidasa”, “Tenganan Village”, “Pantai Pasir Putih”, and “Amed”.

---

4. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Cycling Through UNESCO Heritage

Route: Jatiluwih → Batukaru Temple → Wongaya Gede

The Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a living canvas of green, sculpted by centuries of Balinese ingenuity. Begin your ride along the narrow paths winding through the terraces, with the distant silhouette of Mount Batukaru as a silent guardian.

Pause for reflection at Batukaru Temple (Pura Luhur Batukaru), nestled in the rainforest. The journey ends in Wongaya Gede, where the air is thick with the scent of earth and rain.

Tip: You can search for these locations on Google Maps by typing: “Jatiluwih Rice Terraces”, “Pura Luhur Batukaru”, and “Wongaya Gede”.

---

5. Bukit Peninsula: Clifftop Vistas and Sacred Temples

Route: Jimbaran → Uluwatu Temple → Padang Padang Beach → Melasti Beach

The rugged southern tip of Bali, known as the Bukit Peninsula, is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves. Start your journey in Jimbaran, perhaps with a sunrise breakfast by the sea. The route climbs towards one of Bali’s most revered sanctuaries, Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu), perched on a sheer cliff above the Indian Ocean.

Descend to the legendary surf breaks of Padang Padang Beach and end at Melasti Beach, where white limestone cliffs plunge into clear, aquamarine waters.

Tip: You can search for these locations on Google Maps by typing: “Jimbaran”, “Uluwatu Temple”, “Padang Padang Beach”, and “Melasti Beach”.

---

Final Reflections

Cycling in Bali is more than a sport or a pastime—it is a communion with the land and its people. Each route is a weave in Bali’s living tapestry, a chance to connect with tradition, nature, and your own sense of wonder. As the sun sets over emerald fields and the scent of incense hangs in the air, you may find something of Bali—its beauty, its spirit—has become a part of you, just as the roads of Montenegro are forever a part of me.

Ride gently, and let the journey unfold.

---

Planning Tips:
– Aim to ride early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
– Many local tour operators offer guided cycling tours if you prefer support and local insights.
– Bring plenty of water, respectful attire for temple visits, and a sense of adventure.

For each location, simply search its name on Google Maps to chart your own journey. Selamat jalan—safe travels, dear explorer!