Brief

Explore ranks Vancouver seawall among the world’s most beautiful bike routes

The 28‑km waterfront path earned a 75‑point eye‑catching score in Explore’s global ranking of 52 routes.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 07 Oct 2026 23:20:06 GMT

Adventure‑travel firm Explore announced that Vancouver’s seawall placed among the world’s most beautiful cycling routes, scoring 75 on its eye‑tracking‑based ranking of 52 routes worldwide.

What happened

Explore tested 200 participants with images of 52 cycling routes, measuring how quickly and how long each image captured attention. The average fixation time on the seawall was 1.87 seconds, with a first‑fixation time of 1.75 seconds. The 28‑kilometre loop around Stanley Park and the downtown waterfront earned a 75‑point “eye‑catching” score, ranking it alongside other Canadian routes such as the Bow Valley Parkway (97 points) and the Cabot Trail (71 points).

What the reports add

Explore highlighted the seawall’s flat terrain, suitability for all abilities, and the two‑to‑three‑hour ride time. It noted scenic highlights including beaches, totem poles, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore mountains, with sunset views over English Bay described as “breathtaking.” The study also listed the Okanagan Rail Trail (67 points) and the Icefields Parkway (61 points) among the Canadian entries.

What was said

“We believe cycling tours are one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in a country,” Explore wrote, adding that cyclists can experience landscapes that walking or driving cannot match.

Key facts

Explore’s study used eye‑tracking technology on 200 participants. (dailyhive.com)
Vancouver’s seawall scored 75 out of 100 on the eye‑catching ranking. (dailyhive.com)
The seawall is a 28‑kilometre flat path around Stanley Park and the downtown waterfront. (dailyhive.com)
Average fixation time on the seawall images was 1.87 seconds. (dailyhive.com)
Bow Valley Parkway topped the list with a score of 97. (dailyhive.com)