Two-Wheeled Holidays: Tips and Scenic Routes for Motorcyclists
Some travellers find freedom in every curve, turn each crossing into a small ritual, and use every destination as an excuse to keep riding. These are the motorcyclists who, every summer, board ferries to explore Europe in search of new horizons and unforgettable landscapes.
From Sardinia to Corsica, from Albania to Greece, and all the way up to the northernmost routes of Europe, ferries are often the perfect starting point for those who want to discover the continent on two wheels, freely, independently and without rigid itineraries.
Because for motorcyclists, the journey is never just about arriving: it’s the road itself that makes the adventure. Here are some of the finest routes you can reach by ferry:
• Corsica – D81 (Calvi – Porto)
A succession of tight bends, dramatic cliffs, sweeping sea views and the scent of wild maquis. A technical, little-travelled road with strikingly rugged charm.
• Sardinia – SP105 (Alghero – Bosa)
Forty-five kilometres of pure beauty. Wide curves, flawless asphalt and uninterrupted views of the sea — perfect for a relaxed, scenic ride.
• Albania – SH8 (Orikum – Saranda via the Llogara Pass)
A wild, surprising route. Between sea and mountains, it offers spectacular vistas and winding stretches that keep you fully focused and fully rewarded.
• Greece – From Igoumenitsa to Meteora (via Egnatia Odos)
A journey across mainland Greece, from the coast to the legendary cliff-top monasteries. A road with a spiritual atmosphere, ideal for riders who love long distances and winding mountain sections.
• Norway – The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien)
An extraordinary piece of engineering: 8.3 km of road weaving between fjords and open ocean, with dramatic bridges and sections that skim the water. Stunning under the sun, absolutely breathtaking in stormy weather. Reachable by ferry from several northern European ports or via routes such as Kiel–Oslo or Hirtshals–Bergen.
Taking Your Motorcycle on a Ferry: A Simple Guide
Travelling by ferry with your motorcycle is easy, as long as you follow a few basic steps:
Check-in and Boarding
Check-in times vary by route, but it’s generally best to arrive 1 to 2 hours before departure. Motorcycles typically board before cars.
Securing the Bike
Once in the garage, the crew will show you where to park and provide the straps for securing your motorcycle.
• Engage first gear
• Use the side stand (more stable in case of rolling)
• Place a cloth on the seat to avoid friction
• Experienced riders may prefer using their own ratchet straps
During the Crossing
Access to the garage is strictly prohibited throughout the journey. Bring a small bag with everything you may need: documents, jacket, medication, charger and personal items.
Boarding Ramps: Take It Slow
Ramps can be steep and slippery, especially when wet. Go slowly, keep your feet close to the ground and control the throttle and clutch gently.
Switch Off the Alarm
In rough seas, even slight movements can trigger your motorcycle alarm, causing noise — and draining the battery. It’s best to switch it off before leaving the garage.
Ferries are a flexible, practical and comfortable choice for motorcyclists. With just a few precautions, you can enjoy every moment of your journey, from the very first ramp to the last bend of the road.
