Into the unknown

Seasoned bikepacker and route guide Markus Stitz shares the six cycling destinations he rates as the very best in the world

Distance 280 miles Time Three to seven days Start Würzburg Finish Füssen When to travel July to October for better overall weather conditions Top tip Consider a December trip to take in the traditiona

Been somewhere inspirational? Ridden an ace road? Email YourRides@ride.co.uk to tell us about your trip and your bike

Moments enjoyed, lessons learned, the strange thoughts that only happen on a walk: welcome to the bits and pieces that don’t make big stories, but do make a difference.

A JOURNEY ACROSS SICILY REVEALS THE ESSENCE OF AN ISLAND SHAPED BY OUTSIDERS, WHERE SUCCESSIVE WAVES OF IMMIGRATION OVER THE CENTURIES HAVE CREATED A UNIQUE CULTURAL IDENTITY

Having spent many holidays exploring the delights of France, we decided to broaden our horizons this year and visit Germany. With more than three weeks to play with, we planned to tour the Black Fores