Cycling in Yunnan countryside

From 1800€ / person (min. 4 pax) 9 days

Ready for a week adventure?

A perfect sporty holiday in China is a cycling trip in Yunnan. Yunnan province is now well-known to all for its profusion of beautiful and always different landscapes, diversity of ethnic minorities and overall quite good weather: the perfect ingredients for a beautiful holiday combining nature and culture. Nature, to breathe and contemplate, and culture, for the joy of encounters and unexpected meetings - serendipity. Why not add to that mix a pinch of salt and pepper? That is, to befriend your loyal mount for a week: a bike that will take you anywhere, as long as you give it your own fuel and energy!

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Adapted levels of difficulty

One day, two days, a week long; with 20, 30, 50 or more kilometres a day: we can adapt endlessly your bicycle journey according to your level of fitness. This cycling trip in Yunnan itinerary is an example showing you what we can organize. Don't hesitate to write to us and inquire about your perfect bike journey program!

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Itinerary

This cycling trip in Yunnan will allow you to discover Dali and Lijiang countrysides with a different lens! Start slowly in Dali where you'll get used to your bicycle, then pedal along Erhai lake on a path free from motorized vehicles. Discover the villages along the shore and reach Shaxi, where you'll hike to Shibaoshan. Finally explore Lijiang area, not in the city but in its northern villages, down the Dragon Jade Mountain.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dali

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your driver and transferred to your hotel in Dali old town. Rest of the day at leisure to walk around or get some rest.

Day 2: Dali

In the morning, your guide will bring you to the bike rental shop in town where you will receive and test your private bike. You’ll make a short ride around the town. In the afternoon, you’ll reach the Cangshan mountains behind the city. The cable car will take you up to Zhonghe Temple, where you can hike for several kilometres before walking down to the valley. This exercise will get you ready by warming your muscles for the next day!

Day 3: Dali – Xiashankou

After an early breakfast you’ll start your bike ride from Dali to Xizhou (ca 30 km) along the shores of Erhai lake through the newly designed “ecological zone” (no motorized vehicles allowed!) Visit the old town centre of Xizhou with many Bai style architecture. Then you can continue to Shaping for its week market, and Xiashankou, all the way on your bicycle (65 km) or in the comfort of your vehicle. In Xiashankou, check in at your hotel and enjoy its hot springs for a well-deserved relaxation time.

Day 4: Xiashankou – Shaxi

Today, back on your bike, you’ll reach Shaxi old town, an old stop on the tea and horse caravan track. After a town called Niujie, the road turns into a stiff but steady climb over 14 km (5% gradient). You can cycle it up with your strength and will or go up by car, then cycle downhill from there. When you arrive in Shaxi, take some time to rest and walk by yourself in the town’s old streets.

Day 5: Shaxi

In the morning you’ll take the time to discover Shaxi surroundings. With your guide, you’ll hike up through the forest to the Shibao mountains and visit its Buddha caves. In the afternoon, cycle with your guide in Shaxi valley. Enjoy the traditional villages and the rural landscape where the rapeseed flowers dominate the view in springtime.

Day 6: Shaxi – Shuhe

After breakfast you will be transferred to Lashi Lake in the area of Lijiang. You’ll start riding your bikes from the west side of the lake, make a loop and continue to the north passing through some beautiful villages. You’ll visit a temple, and after a short climb, you’ll see the impressive Jade Dragon Mountain appearing before you. You’ll head for the old town of Shuhe, and explore its village lanes before taking some rest at your hotel in the countryside.

Day 7: Shuhe – Baisha – Yuhu – Shuhe

This morning, you’ll start riding to the north and reach Baisha village. Discover the famous murals of Dabaoji pavilion, and see something of the history of Baisha and Lijiang from old photographs. Many of these were taken by Joseph Rock, an Austrian/ American scientist who stayed in the valley about a century ago. You’ll continue north to Yufeng temple, then Yuhu village where you’ll visit Joseph Rock’s old house. Finally you’ll reach the Black Dragon Pool, with the iconic picture of the Jade Dragon Mountain reflecting itself in the water. If you feel like it, you can still reach the top of the Elephant Hill nearby, before going back to your hotel.

Day 8 : Shuhe – Lijiang – Shuhe

The final day of your trip will be a restorative one: your driver will take you to Lijiang, where you can freely wander across the old town and enjoy the restaurants and souvenir shops. If you prefer staying away from the bustling business feel of the city, your driver can take you around the countryside where you’ll discover some villages arts and crafts, and maybe bring some souvenirs too.

Day 9: Shuhe – Lijiang Departure

Today, your driver will take you to Lijiang airport, where you’ll board your flight to your next destination.

Information

Inclusions:
  • 3/4* hotels or guesthouses with breakfast
  • Lunch & dinner on days 2-7
  • Private driver for the airport transfers
  • One support vehicle and driver for all traveling days
  • Experienced English-speaking guide and biker
  • One bicycle per person for the biking days
  • Free water, snacks, and fruit supply during traveling days
Exclusions:
  • Visa
  • International and domestic flights
  • Other meals
  • All entrance fees, shuttle bus fees at tourist spots, cable car fees, and government charges
  • Personal expenses
  • Personal equipment
  • Tips to the driver and guide
  • Insurances
Interested in this journey?