Serk Cycling Beijing
Xinjiang is China’s largest province and is host to some of the most delightful landscapes anywhere on the planet. Snow capped mountains, lush valleys with wild horses, moonscapes, blue lakes and grasslands - this region of Xinjiang has it all. Add to that the vibrant culture of the Muslim Uyghur people and you have the right ingredients for unique china cycling experience. Xinjiang has been on our radar for years - with new roads and accomodation rolling out everyday its time to go and explore it with road bikes!
Day 1.
Yining
Arrive Yining in the afternoon.
Airport pick and transfer to Hotel.
After you've settled into your room and unpacked your bike join us for a stroll down Hanren Jie for a visit to the local Uygur shops and a taste of your first roast lamb skewer !
It gets dark very late in this part of the world so we'll go for a post dinner ride on the bikes to make sure everything is in order.
Day 2.
Yining – Zhaosu
Our first proper day of climbing up the Baishifeng Mountain. The mountain is named after the white rocks which reveal themselves at the peak of the pass.
The mountain is covered in lush grass and you'll witness some local farmers from the Kazakh ethnic group herding cattle, horses and sheep around the grasslands.
There is a long tunnel today so bring your lights !
Arriving at Zhaosu you'll stay in a nice hotel in a new part of town. We'll head into the old district for a local meal delicious hand made noodles.
Baishifeng Mountain provides the first of many climbing challenges of the trip.
Day 3.
Zhaosu – Tekesi
Today we ride to Tekesi along a slightly downhill road for 63km. We will pass through open farmland and grasslands - green is definitely the theme today ! Tekesi is designed around the shape of the traditional Bagua symbol.
Day 4.
Tekesi- Kongliu
Today is adventure day. We take some back roads so expect some rough surfaces and gravel roads. The reward - a trip around a gorgeous lake and brand new tarmac 25km. This type of adventure riding is not for everyone so if you prefer you can have a rest and take the support vehicle instead of riding.
Day 5.
Xinyuan - Nalati (start riding ) – Qiaoerma
Back to Swiss landscapes and long climbs. Today's ride is another stunner with vibrant greens, Kazakh herders waving hello and fast descents to ensure you are beaming from ear to ear the whole day.
Day 6.
Qiaoerma – Dushanzi- Urumuqi
The Queen stage of the ride. Four Seasons in one day. Ride from the sun drenched valley slowly up the highest pass on the trip. As you travel higher the landscape changes. All year round the summit is covered with snow. You are going to think you're riding the Giro in May (in August in China).
Day 7.
Urumuqi – Beijing
Time to pack up the bikes and wave goodbye to this fabulous land. One last trip to the Bazaar for souvenirs and a lamb skewer for the final meal. Tears at the airport guaranteed.
