Following Hungary's cycling map without (much) detour, I recently biked Northen Hungary and loved it. Check out this link for maps, suggested routes and other planning tools.

Before I get started on the review, let me explain my sophisticated ranking system...

Packer rank. This rank is for folks who are hard core cyclists. If you claim to be a Packer, you compete at least once a month, and ride foothills or mountains on a weekly basis.

Luxe rank. This rank is for folks who are forced to travel with hard core cyclists. If you claim Luxe, you only dust off the bike for scenery that warrants a bruised bottom.

Scale. 1-10

DIFFICULTY

Packer rank. 5. The climbs were eternal. Good work out.
Luxe rank. 7. (Barely) within the realm of reason. Challenging yet managed.

ROADS

Packer rank. 8. Nice. Paved. Not much traffic.
Luxe rank. 7. Based on my reading, the roads easily exceeded expectations. A dedicated shoulder would have been appreciated.

SCENERY & OTHER PERKS

Packer rank. 7. Nice. Green. I liked the accessibility of the castle ruins. And the Tokaji Aszú wine-tastings.
Luxe rank. 7. Nice. Green. I enjoyed the intimate access to life beyond Budapest. And the Tokaji Aszú wine-tastings.

ACCOMMODATIONS ALONG THE WAY

Packer rank. 6. Most spots made satisfactory and convenient accommodations for our bikes. A few didn't.
Luxe rank. 8. I've always wanted to stay in a castle. On this cycling trip, I was able to stay in three. Definitely worth the bruised bottom.

Equipment. I brought my road bike and was infinitely grateful that I did. I backpacked this trip, but if I were to do it again, I would bring the BOB trailer. Equip your bike with lights. The roads don't offer any.

Highly recommended. Especially coupled with Tokaji Aszú wine.

Tags: Hungary