The world's best cycling routes

This relaxed 20km loop takes in Northern Italy’s scenic lakes and mountainous alpine passes, without tackling any thigh-burning inclines. A 15-minute drive from Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como brings you to the city of Como, your starting point for the ride. Setting off from Como Lago train station, you can follow a path that hugs the lake’s shoreline, taking you along Passeggiata Lino Gelpi from Piazza Cavour to Villa Olmo’s spectacular gardens. From here, the cycle path keeps things coastal until you’re able to join Via Regina and go all the way to the town of Moltrasio. A pretty town once famed for its limestone quarries, Moltrasio was a favourite destination of the late Gianni Versace, who oversaw the restoration of one of its villas, Villa Fontanelle. When retracing your route back to Como, look out across the lake to the east and try and spot Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como on the other side.

Distance covered Approximately 20km

Challenge level Mild

Cycling uphill isn’t everyone’s idea of a life-affirming afternoon, but for a certain breed of cyclist, the ascent (and the well-earned descent down the other side) is all part of the fun. The outskirts of Kuala Lumpur are home to some brilliant road climbs, and it’s hard to beat the route to the top of Fraser’s Hill – a former tin mine-turned-hill resort. Drive an hour north from Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur to reach the start (and end point) of the Kuala Kubu Bharu loop. Set off on the wide, sweeping asphalt of Federal Route 55 and get ready for a gentle 30km warm-up as you follow the meandering path of the Selangor River, flanked by lush vegetation. On reaching the big Fraser’s Hill sign, it’s time to turn off the main drag and onto the one-way climb (with its constantly changing gradients) all the way to the clock tower at its summit. Drink in the views and enjoy a rest before whizzing your way downhill, back to Kuala Kubu Bharu.

Distance covered Approximately 80km

Challenge level Moderate to tough

With the snow-capped Andes to the east, the Chilean capital has some show-stealing mountain vistas. The hills and mountains are criss-crossed with rugged bike trails, not least in the city’s Metropolitan Park (which, at 1,700 acres, is over twice the size of Central Park). The park has three different downhill trails to choose between, within easy reach from your base at Mandarin Oriental, Santiago, each starting at the Mirador Pablo Neruda Amphitheater. Beginners can pedal the Zorzal or Amphitheatre trails, while the snaking bends of the S route are for riders with off-road experience.

Distance covered Approximately 5km

Challenge level Mild to moderate