bike travel documentary

21 best cycling documentaries (that every serious cyclist should watch)

We’ve rounded up the best cycling documentaries out there and put together this list to inspire your viewing for when you fancy a cosy night in.

We hope you find a few documentaries you haven’t come across before, so that even if you can’t be riding your bike, you can at least be watching bicycles and learning more about cycling, the best sport in the world!

Notes: Our list of best cycling documentaries is ordered from the most recent to the oldest.

We’ve included details of where you can watch them (as at the time of writing), as well as a link to a website that compares the cost on different streaming services (if the film is listed on the website – it doesn’t list them all).

If you’re after a movie rather than a documentary, you’ll want to take a look at this round up of our favourite cycling movies .

1. Tour de France Unchained (2023)

• Main subject: Le Tour 2022
• Best for: Fans of the classic, challenging, month-long Grand Tour
• Where to watch: Netflix

The long-awaited Tour de France: Unchained is a Netflix exclusive covering the trials and tribulations of the world’s most famous bike race. The wait was worth it. This absolutely excellent fly on the wall documentary series follows teams and riders in the peloton through the highs and lows of the planet’s most challenging race.

The documentary covers the 109th edition of Le Tour, held in 2022. Eight teams are featured during the eight episodes, and you can experience every moment of their sacrifice and suffering as they vie for cycling’s most prestigious trophy.

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it feels like to compete for the white, yellow, green and red spotted jerseys, then this is about as close as you’re going to get. Unless you’re actually down to compete in the next edition of the French Grand Tour, that is.

2. Movistar cycling documentary (2022, 2021 and 2019)

• Main subject: Professional cycling
• Best for: Fans who want to get an insight into the pro peloton with cycling TV shows

Season one was added to Netflix in March 2020, and you’ll struggle not to binge-watch this captivating six-part series in which Movistar provides exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of Spain’s Movistar Team as they compete in the 2019 cycling season.

This is one of the best cycling documentaries on Netflix. It’s beautifully produced and feels quite raw and honest, giving a real feeling for the dynamics and tensions between the big name leaders within the team. It’s unusual to get such insights on races that are still such recent history.

The only downside to these cycling shows is the sub-titles for non-Spanish speaking viewers.

The second season of this hugely popular cycling documentary on Netflix was added in May 2021: six episodes, each around an hour long, documenting the time between August 2020 and January 2021.

The popular cycling show returned for a third season in March 2022, with four episodes covering the team’s 2021 season and Lopez’s decision to abandon La Vuelta.

3. Sean Conway’s ‘Europe or Bust’ (2020)

• Main subject: Endurance cycling
• Best for: Anyone looking to be wowed by a raw insight into extreme cycling
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime

In 2019, extreme adventurer Sean Conway set a new world record by cycling unsupported across Europe from Portugal to Russia in just 24 days. This fascinating fly-on-the-wall British cycling documentary sees Conway battle with dangerous roads, strong head winds, a lack of sleep and a shocking diet. A great example of the best bikepacking documentaries, and probably another contender for best cycling documentary overall, this is well worth a watch.

(Note the film above is a prequel taster video, rather than a trailer video of the official film.)

4. De Ronde 100 – Behind the scenes (2020)

• Best for: Anyone who wants to see behind the scenes at one of the most historic races on the road cycling calendar
• Where to watch: YouTube 

A rare insight into the goings on behind one of the most important races on the calendar, the Tour of Flanders, aka De Ronde. It’s part of the Spring Classics, and this documentary focuses on the 2016 race, or the 100th edition.

It’s one of the best cycling documentaries on YouTube as its raw candor gives you an insight into the work that the press and organising staff go through to bring you the pictures you see on your television among other things.

The makers of this bike documentary cover each year of De Ronde, so once you’ve watched the 2016 edition, there are plenty more for you to watch!

5. Lance (2020)

• Main subject: Doping and Lance’s life after cycling
• Best for: Those who want the full view of Armstrong’s story told in part, by the man himself 
• Where to watch: Sky Go

This documentary is a two-part series originally aired by ESPN in 2020 as part of their ’30 for 30′ show. It shows Lance Armstrong being interviewed and being quite open about what he did during his career, and where he is now.

ESPN’s 30 for 30 is a series of documentary films that highlights sporting stories past and present. The series has also included such sports stars as Michael Jordan and the infamous OJ Simpson.

It takes into account interviews from people close to him and his enemies, both in the media and in cycling. It’s an interesting watch and possibly the best Lance Armstrong documentary, and feels like it closes the chapter of Lance in cycling quite well. However, as with anything involving Mr Armstrong, it’s bound to stoke opinions!

6. Iron Cowboy (2018)

• Main subject: Triathlon
• Best for: Anyone needing inspiration to lose the dad bod – Lawrence is a father of five!
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Google Play, Microsoft Store, Netflix, YouTube
• Price comparison for this film .

This epic movie is the true story of triathlete James Lawrence (aka the Iron Cowboy) and his journey to complete an incredible 50 Ironman races in 50 days, across 50 US states. Certainly one of the more raw cycling movies on Netflix, and one of the better Amazon Prime cycling documentary options too.

If you’ve ever completed a triathlon or Ironman event, you’ll be one step closer to appreciating what’s involved in this feat. In this must-watch documentary you’ll see how the human body can be pushed to its limits.

7. Mamil (2017)

• Main subject: Amateur cycling
• Best for: If you’re a MAMIL yourself, this is a film you’ll certainly relate to
• Where to watch: Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
• Price comparison

MAMILs are Middle-Aged Men in Lycra. This amusing feature-length road cycling documentary follows several groups of blokes on bikes including British dads, gay couples in New York and a team of overweight cyclists in Australia. This cyclist documentary showcases the life of amateur road cyclists who are just like many of us, but a bit different.

8. All for One (2017)

• Best for: Fans of Aussie cycling
• Where to watch: Google Play, Microsoft Store, YouTube

The All For One biking documentary tells the story of GreenEDGE, Australia’s first ProTour cycling team.

If you’ve seen the Backstage Pass series on YouTube, then you’ll be familiar with most of the content of the All For One movie and this pro cycling documentary has the same humorous tone. It’s one to watch for a positive depiction of pro cycling.

9. Icarus (2017)

• Main subject: Doping
• Best for: Anyone wanting to know exactly how the Russian sports doping scandal was discovered

Icarus is an American documentary on cycling that begins with Bryan Fogel’s investigation into doping in amateur cycling. He sets out to see if he could dope while preparing for the Haute Route, and get away with it.

This Netflix cycling documentary culminates in the discovery of Russia’s state-sponsored Olympic doping program. It details the events that led to Russian athletes being stripped of 47 Olympic medals and, in 2019, the World Anti-Doping Agency banning Russia from all major sporting events for the next four years.

If you’re after a cycling doping documentary, this is the one to watch.

10. Tour de Pharmacy (2017)

• Best for: Anyone looking for light-hearted, low-brow comedy fun
• Where to watch: Google Play, Microsoft Store, TalkTalk TV, YouTube

This mockumentary chronicles the prevalence of doping in professional cycling. With an all-star cast featuring Orlando Bloom, Andy Samberg and Kevin Bacon, the movie also features cameo appearances from Lance Armstrong and Mike Tyson, who play themselves.

The setting is the 1982 Tour de France, and while not a true cycle documentary., the movie is entertaining – poking fun at the level playing field created when virtually every professional cyclist was doping.

11. Personal Gold: an underdog story (2015)

• Best for: Fans of Olympic track cycling
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Google Play, YouTube

Personal Gold documents the inspirational tale of four American women and their quest to win gold medals for cycling in the London 2012 Olympics.

As the men’s team are banned for doping in the wake of the Lance Armstrong drug scandal, these underdog women cyclists become the USA’s only hope in winning track cycling medals.

12. Stop at Nothing: The Lance Armstrong Story (2014)

• Main subject: Cyclist biopic
• Best for: If you enjoyed watching ‘The Armstrong Lie’, you’ll love this one
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Google Play, Netflix, YouTube

You think you know the story of Lance Armstrong? This BBC cycling documentary says otherwise. It’s one of the few Netflix cycling documentaries, as most seem to just on YouTube or Amazon Prime after being shown on live TV.

Focusing on the cheating, bullying and lies involved in Armstrong’s pursuit of money, fame and success, this gritty documentary details the cycling star’s fall from grace.

13. Thereabouts (2014)

• Best for: Cyclists wanting to experience the beauty of Australia from their armchair
• Where to watch: YouTube

Thereabouts is a cycling documentary that aims to bring back the magic and wonder of cycling by focusing not on medals, points and scandal, but instead on showcasing Australia by road bike.

This cycling documentary documents the journey by two pro cyclist brothers, Lachlan and Gus Morton, as they ride from their home in Port Macquarie to Uluru. It’s a journey of 2,500km over 12 days, into deepest Australia.

It provides real insight into the pressures experienced by professional road cyclists as well as fantastic Australian landscapes.

14. Pantani: The accidental death of a cyclist (2014)

• Main subject: Cyclist’s biopic
• Best for: Even those who can’t stand cycling will be gripped by this tragic tale
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

This gripping documentary tells the tragic story of Marco Pantani, 1998 winner of both the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. Just six years after his triumph, he was found dead in a hotel room after a cocaine overdose.

Pantani is one of those figures that is hugely relatable and his story is one that explores wasted talent, the prevalence of doping in cycling, victimisation and depression. If you’re looking for an interesting film to watch with your non-cyclist other half, this could be the one.

15. My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes (2014)

• Main subject: History
• Best for: Anyone with an interest in WWII history
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV

Set in WWII, this movie recounts the true story of how Tour de France champion Gino Bartali and other fellow Italians worked with Jewish leaders to defy the Nazis and save the lives of thousands of Jewish people in Italy.

This incredible tale was never published in Bartali’s lifetime and gives a fascinating insight into war-time cycling.

16. Bradley Wiggins: A Year in Yellow (2012)

• Best for: Anyone interested in Wiggins’ 2012 Tour de France win

When Bradley Wiggins won the Tour de France in 2012, he became the first British man to do so in the history of the race. First shown on Sky Atlantic in 2012, Bradley Wiggins: A Year In Yellow is sort of a Tour de France documentary that follows his journey from Team Sky leader to eventual winner of the hardest cycling race on earth.

It features interviews with his nearest and dearest, and provides a background to one of the most decorated male British cyclists. There aren’t many full cycling documentaries YouTube has to watch but this is a great one.

17. The Flying Scotsman (2006)

• Best for: Cycling fans looking for a spirit-lifting movie to enjoy

The Flying Scotsman cycling film tells the incredible true story of Graeme Obree, the Scottish amateur cyclist who broke the World Hour Record in 1993 on a bicycle he built himself from bits of old washing machines.

What’s even more incredible is how bi-polar sufferer Obree struggled with intense bouts of depression yet still managed to smash records without anti-depressants or performance enhancing drugs. You also get a real feeling for his love-hate relationship with the hour record.

18. Hell on Wheels (2004)

• Best for: Viewers who don’t mind subtitles as the narrative is in German

The Hell on Wheels cycling film explores the pain and suffering of those who devote their lives to competing in the Tour de France.

It’s a cycling documentary about the Tour de France’s 100th anniversary in 2003 and is shot from the perspective of Team Telekom. It features behind-the-scenes footage and finish-line interviews, showing the less-than-glamorous side of the professional cycling world.

19. A Sunday in Hell (1976)

• Best for: Fans of classic cycling movies

Acclaimed as one of the best cycling films ever made, A Sunday in Hell is a chronology of the 1976 Paris-Roubaix bike race from the perspective of cyclists, event organisers, spectators and even a group of protestors who stopped the race at one stage. You get to see legendary names such as Eddy Merckx, Roger De Vlademinck, Francesco Moser and Freddy Maertens.

This classic cycling documentary shows the ups and downs of the most dramatic race of the spring classics. It’s particularly impressive when you consider that the whole documentary was shot in one day using more than 20 cameras along the route and footage from a helicopter – these kinds of techniques were groundbreaking at that time.

20. La Course en Tete (1974)

• Best for: Fans of the history of cycling

This classic bicycle documentary features the famed cyclist Eddy Merckx, winner of eleven Grand Tours.

One of the best cycling films on YouTube, the camera follows Merckx through the 1973 and 1974 seasons and allows you to appreciate what a truly great cyclist he really was.

21. The Stars and the Water Carriers (1974)

• Best for: Fans of the history of cycling and the Giro d’Italia

This is another classic documentary about cycling from Jorgan Leth, who also directed A Sunday in Hell. The Stars and the Water Carriers features the 1973 Giro d’Italia, focusing on the winner Eddy Merckx and his challengers, both on the road and behind the scenes.

If you’re disappointed that the 2020 Giro d’Italia may not go ahead, watch this instead.

Honourable mentions

If you’re willing to go old-school and buy a DVD, check out these three films! They are only not on our list of best bike documentaries because you can’t currently get them online.

• Chasing Legends (2010)
• Road to Roubaix (2008)
• Overcoming (2005)

What do you think of our list of road cycling documentaries?

Have we missed your favourite, or are there new cycling documentaries we’ve not covered yet?! Let us know your thoughts on the best cycling series or one-off special in the comments below.

What’s next?

If you fancy a bit of non-fiction, check out our pick of the best road cycling films .

Also check out our favourite road cycling books . We reckon these are the ones every proper roadie should have read!

And finally, this article shares our favourite cycling apps (other than Netflix!).

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Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels – and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they’re there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

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9 Responses to “21 best cycling documentaries (that every serious cyclist should watch)”

Great list – cheers

Not at all – glad you like it!

Rising from Ashes is incredibly inspiring, I don’t remember how I watched it years ago, but it looks like now you can only buy it on vimeo https://vimeo.com/ondemand/risingfromashes

Thanks for this! Looks like a great watch, what an inspiring story! https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2088883/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dod7harhgJ8

Hi Jethro, thanks for this. That link doesn’t seem to work but I think you’re talking about this: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8493156/ Looks awesome; I’ll have a watch, thanks for suggesting it! Clare

Half the Road https://halftheroad.com/ The Hard Road https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1841876/ Pro https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1841798/?ref_=tt_mv_close

Thanks for the suggestions!

Like!! I blog quite often and I genuinely thank you for your information. The article has truly peaked my interest.

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The Best Cycling Documentaries: Bikepacking, Road and Touring on Youtube

The best bikepacking films, cycling documentaries and touring videos for online inspiration (and they’re FREE to watch!)

Ever since us humans invented the camera, we’ve been documenting our adventures.

And, fortunately for us, cyclists do this a lot.

From bare-bones bikepacking adventures to epic round-the-world cycle tours and gruelling feats of endurance on the tarmac. Regardless of your two-wheeled persuasion, nowadays bicycle lovers can find a plethora of inspiration at the click of a button.

At Veggie Vagabonds we’re absolutely mad for some good adventure viewing and have whittled down a list with some of our favourites from around the world. You’ll find feature-length bikepacking videos and cycling films to shorter tales of touring escapades and personal bicycle exploration.

To make it accessible to as many hungry riders as possible, nearly all of these videos are available on YouTube, Vimeo or something similar. That means they are FREE to watch. Now we can all get knee-deep in adventure inspiration!

Author’s note: this article took a damn long time to write… impossible not to cycle down countless rabbit holes on YouTube!

I Want to See the World by Iohan Gueorguiev

Released: 2014 / Duration: 27 mins

In honesty, this list was inspired by Iohan’s adventures. The I Want to See the World series are some of the best bikepacking videos on YouTube, documenting Iohan’s offroad journey, travelling from North to South America.

Iohan is a true bicycle explorer. His positivity and energy are infectious, despite being faced with many gruelling and unnerving experiences. The style of his backcountry cycling will inspire you to ditch the road, travel light and embrace every encounter, human and animal alike.

Sadly, Iohan passed away this year and so I hope we can keep passing on his incredible tales of exploration and warm personality.

From Cape to Cairo by Bike

Release: ? Duration: 1 hr 38 mins

If you have a passion for people, the world, travel, bikes, cultures, adventure, Africa, stories or nature, you have to watch this. Actually, even if you have no interest in those things, you should still watch. It will fill you with happiness and inspiration.

Anselm’s solo journey through Africa is one of the most uplifting, exciting and powerful bits of cycle-viewing we’ve seen. It captures the countries, nature and very crucially the people in such a wonderful light.

After watching it made us reconsider our bikepacking plans and head for Africa.

You gotta watch!

The Road from Karakol

Released: 2013 Duration: 24 mins

Central Asia + bikepacking + mountain climbing = sweeeet watching.

Kyle Dempster embarks on a solo cycle tour across Kyrgyzstan with a trailer full of climbing gear, an appetite for remote mountains and some partially accurate maps.

It’s a raw insight into his experiences, the good and the bad, the highs and lows. It shows that even the toughest of adventurers come across challenges that make them crap their pants.

GBDuro 2019: EF Gone Racing

Released: 2019 Duration: 32 mins

Lachlan Morton is a bike racing phenom and this is the story of his UK-based Land’s End to John O’Groats challenge.

This 2,000-mile ride has 4-stages (yes, that means 500-mile a piece) and takes road, gravel and single-track routes through some of the UK’s most incredible natural landscapes. It’s a short cycling film that shows crazy feats of endurance. Amazing stuff if you’re planning a long-distance grueller of your own.

If you want more adventure inspiration and guides to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter to get our latest articles

A Bivvy, a Phone and a Drone: Cycling Home From China

Released: 2020 Duration: 29 mins

Not all epic bikepacking documentaries have to have big budgets.

A Bivvy, a Phone and a Drone follows Josh Reid as he cycles his bike from the Giant bike factory in Shanghai back to his home in the UK. His adventures are simply documented with a phone and a drone (hence the title) whilst he bivvy camps his way through the 15,000-mile and 19-country journey.

One of our favourite bikepacking documentaries on YouTube because of its simplicity and feel-good style.

Ride for the Wild: Cycling 2,000-Miles to All 15 UK National Parks in 30 Days

Released: 2022 Duration: 45 mins

In September 2021, two young adventurers had 30 days off work… would it be possible to cycle 2,000 miles to all 15 UK national parks in that time?

Okay, so the two young adventurers are Sarah and me. A shameless plug of our Ride for the Wild film, but we think you’ll like it!

The 2,000-mile route was filled with twists and turns, sensational highs and agonising lows, taking us through some of England, Scotland and Wales’ most incredible natural areas. It meant cycling 60+ miles a day and camping along the way… we were blown away, in many ways!

The most beautiful but brutal experience of our lives, and raising money for a brilliant cause . This is how it all unfolded!

Rainspotting: Bikepacking Scotland

Released: 2021 Duration: 17 mins

The guys at Pannier and Brother Cycles make videos that perfectly showcase some of the best bikepacking in the UK.

Rainspotting follows their trip, catching a train from London to the Scottish Highlands, then smashing out an 80-hour bikepacking ramble through the Grampian mountains in the West Highlands.

The filming is beautiful and really shows the nitty-gritty aspects that make outdoor trips special. You get a nice insight into their group dynamic and feel like you’re going along for the ride with them. If you’re planning a winter bikepacking trip in Scotland then you gotta give it a watch.

The Man Who Cycled the World

Released: 2013 Duration: 28 mins

Mark Beaumont is arguably the most famous endurance cyclist around. And, a lot of that has to do with this round-the-world cycling feat.

In 2017, Mark broke the record for cycling around the world by a whopping 44 days. His 18,000-mile ride was gruelling and to make things harder, he had a film crew following him along for the journey.

The Man That Cycled the World shows all the trials and tribulations he faces and you can watch the full 4-part cycle touring documentary on YouTube.

Ruta Chingaza: Bikepacking for Conservation

Released: 2020 Duration: 33 mins

Planning a trip to South America? Chingaza National Park in Colombia is home to the Páramos, which contains all the natural drinking water for Bogota. The Ruta Chingaza is a new route, opened by Bikepacking for Conservation, which links the water source to the city it supplies.

This epic looped route looks both beautiful and brutal, and the cycling documentary shares its opening, along with a charming insight into bicycle culture in Colombia.

Wild Horses: The Silk Road Mountain Race Documentary

Released: 2019 Duration: 27 mins

The Silk Road Mountain Race started in 2018 and is a single-stage, fixed-route and unsupported cycling race through the mountains in Kyrgyzstan. It’s a wild, remote, 1,120-mile route that takes in over 30,000 metres of ascent… definitely a grueller!

Wild Horses beautifully documents the first year, showing all the trials and tribulations the riders go through. More than 80 started the race. Less than 20 finished… as the documentary says: you need to be more than a good cyclist to cross the finish line.

One crazy bicycle adventure race!

The Impossible Route: Death Valley

Released: 2021 Duration: 1hr 24 mins

The Impossible Route is a wild 7-day gravel cycling adventure across one of the most hostile landscapes in the world. 740 miles, 14,000 metres of climbing and one water source for the whole trip…

And it isn’t even a cycle route. It’s the California Backcountry Discovery Route which is meant for motorcycles that can carry water a LOT easier.

Some really enjoying watching from the Plant-Based Cyclist (biggups to vegan cycling!) on a route that seems absolutely nuts (especially coming from the UK).

Some more to explore later…

Our 2,000-mile bikepacking gear list, our favourite mountaineering movies, epic climbing documentaries available online, all our home inspiration content.

1,200 Days Around the World on a Unicycle by Ed Pratt

Released: 2020 Duration: 1 hr 14 mins

So not exactly a cycling documentary. It’s missing one wheel. But it’s bloody awesome nonetheless.

If you thought cycling around the world was hardcore, imagine doing it on a unicycle. That’s right, Ed Pratt spent 1,200 days cycling around the world on a unicycle and the documentary is brilliant!

Matty & Clare: Lost Captures

Released: 2020 Duration: 25 mins

In 1952, Matty’s grandad cycle toured around Norway. His grandad didn’t tell anyone about it but he did keep a photo album that documented the adventure. After his grandad passes away, Matty and his girlfriend Clare decide to retrace his footsteps.

The riding in Norway looks completely off the chain and the relationship between Matty and Clare is heartwarming. What with the inspiration behind the trip, we think it’s one of the most inspiring and touching cycling documentaries on YouTube.

Blood road – Trailer

Released: 2017 Duration: 1 hr 32 mins

Vietnam might not be up there on your list of cycling destinations, but it might be after watching this.

Rebecca Rusch teams up with her Vietnamese riding partner, Huyen Nguyen, to find the location her father’s fighter plane was shot down during the America-Vietnam War.

It shows the harsh reality that Vietnam endured during the war and the scars left since.

This is one of the free documentaries on Red Bull. If you haven’t checked them out already, you’re in for a treat. There’s a massive collection of adventure films varying from cycling to climbing, trail running to surfing.

You can watch Blood Road for free here.

Cycling documentaries on Netflix

We left these two to the end as they’re not free. That is unless you have your friends log in details…

Pedal the World / an Adventure Around the World on a Bike

Released: 2015 Duration: 1hr 24 mins

I’ll be honest, this isn’t my favourite cycling documentary Netflix has on offer, but I think it could be enjoyable watching if you’re about to set off on your first international tour .

This doc film follows Felix Starck, a relatively inexperienced cyclist, as he embarks on an 18,000-km journey around the world. It’s got a feel-good backpacker vibe to it, travelling through parts of South East Asia.

Released: 2017 Duration: 2 hr

When Icarus came out, it was a huge exposé on the Russian doping scandal with a big insight into the Lance Armstrong story and performance enhancers in cycling.

It’s some pretty unbelievable viewing to see just how integral doping became in sports and the efforts people go to reach that number one spot.

One of the best documentaries on Netflix, for cyclists and everyone else.

Know any other awesome inspiring cycle films on YouTube, Vimeo, Netflix? Share in the comments!

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The 20 Best Bike Movies, Documentaries, and TV Series Ever Made

With the loss of GCN+’s original programming, we scoured the internet to find our favorite bike movies, documentaries, and adventure films.

Thankfully, with the announcement of Max’s foray into bike streaming (though the price point is a bit of a bummer), race fans can still create a patchwork of coverage across Peacock, Flobikes, and Max.

However, one void that is being left in the wake of GCN+’s shuttering is their wealth of original programming, which was one of my favorite things about the platform.

The racing featured on GCN+ was great, to be sure, and my son, a budding BMXer in his own right, loved the variety of disciplines the platform gave us access too. But more than the racing, I loved GCN+’s multitude of documentaries, which often ran about an hour, putting them in the perfect sweet spot between bite-sized and feature length.

There were deep dives into historical figures and brands, and entire films dedicated to single, epic climbs. There were documentaries which would have been equally at home on the Travel Channel, movies about slow cycling and fixed-gear alleycats, and deep dives into some of history’s most legendary races. My favorites were the hour-long profiles of legends; Cancellara, Kelly, Contador, Voeckler.

I won’t wax too nostalgic, because what’s the point?

What I am here to do is to tell you that the internet is still full of fantastic cycling content, narrative and documentary alike. So, while GCN+’s amazing original programming may be no more, there are still plenty of opportunities to get your bike-film fix in, especially during this cold and wet season, where many of us will spend many hours on our trainers, wondering what we could watch to pass the time.

Documentaries and Adventure Films

A Sunday in Hell (YouTube)

A Sunday in Hell is, in this writer’s opinion, the greatest bicycling film ever made, as it captures what it’s like to be inside (or on the fringes of) a bike race—in this case, the 1976 edition of Paris-Roubaix—like nothing before or since. It also never gets old to watch Merckx, De Vlaemnick, Maartens, and Moser racing in their primes on some of the most beautiful bikes ever built.

Stars and Water Carriers (YouTube)

Much like A Sunday in Hell, Stars and Water Carriers is a classic cycling film from the early 1970s. However, here, it’s an inside look at the 1973 Giro d’Italia, predating A Sunday in Hell by just a few years. It also owns one of the greatest titles in the history of film.

Icarus (Netflix)

The dramatic turn Icarus takes is like something out of a John Grisham book. What was, at the start, a documentary about doping to win a bike race quickly becomes something of an international thriller with massive global stakes and a pair of deaths surrounded by some very suspicious circumstances. And like a very small handful of the best documentaries ever made, Icarus played a very role in shaping the world that came after it.

The Least Expected Day (Netflix)

Something of a precursor to the ultra-popular Unchained (more on that in a moment), The Least Expected Day is a Spanish-language production that takes a look inside Team Movistar, exploring the drama—much of which is centered around their team leaders like Nairo Quintana, Enric Mas, and Richard Carapaz—and the team’s characters, such as their larger-than-life team manager Eusebio Unzúe.

Tour de France: Unchained (Netflix)

Contemporary film and television is a copycat industry. When one thing works, we can expect a deluge of content trying to capitalize on that dam-burster’s magic. And so it came as no surprise when a bunch of beneath-the-helmet type series started popping up all across the streaming platforms after the success of F1: Drive to Survice . Lucky for us, there were none better and more compelling than Unchained, which gave viewers rare access behind the scenes of one of the world’s biggest and most important sporting events. We can’t wait for season two .

Uphill Climb: The Women Who Conquered the Impossible Race (Peacock)

Uphill Climb is a beautiful film that celebrates the strength and perseverance of women as it highlights the first racers to ever ride the Tour de France Fémenin, who paved the earliest roads for the elite women cyclists of today. And for all its greatness, it evokes an equal amount of anger to witness the hurdles and closedmindedness that women had to (and still have to) overcome in order to race their bikes.

Where the Trail Ends (Tubi)

One thing that’s great about adventure movies is watching people do things you might never be able to do (even though you might say to yourself, “I could do that”). Few bicycling adventure films bring us to more far-flung locations to see the best of the best taking some of the most insane lines we’ve ever seen better than Where the Trail Ends.

Accomplice (Amazon Prime)

Not unlike Where the Trail Ends, the 2021 adventure film Accomplice takes viewers into some stunning vistas to watch riding that is unimaginably bold. However, what sets this film apart is that it’s an homage as much to the bicycle itself—one of humankind’s greatest inventions—as it is a showcase of some of the best bike riders in the world; the relationship between the two always at the center.

My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes (Peacock)

Bike racing fans know Gino Bartali as one of the great heroes of Italian cycling but few knew him as another kind of hero; one who helped save the lives of countless Jews during the Holocaust by hiding false documents in the tubes of his training bikes. Bartali only revealed his secret missions at the end of his life, which led to the production of this stunning documentary which features narration from Hollywood icons Isabella Rossellini and Robert Loggia.

Call of a Life Time (YouTube)

The Call of a Life Time series does for gravel and off-road racing what Stars and Water Carriers once did for road racing. That is, to offer viewers something of a cinéma vérité for the fast-growing off-road racing scene, as it follows racers over the course of the Life Time Grand Prix, which includes landmark races like the Sea Otter Classic, Unbound, the Leadville 100, and Big Sugar Gravel. Some of the toughest riders around riding some of the hardest races on Earth.

Breaking Away

What A Sunday in Hell is to bicycle documentaries, Breaking Away is to bicycling narratives. That is, the best there is. This is my favorite bike movie ever in large part because it’s about anything but bikes. Sure, the bike riding takes center stage but Breaking Away is as much about the loss of youth, the magic of dreams, class hierarchies, and how stultifying our own histories can be as it is about the Little 500. The soul of this movie is enormous. Cutters forever!

Bicycle Thieves

Considered a landmark achievement, Bicycle Thieves transcends its genre, its era, and its era, as it is considered by many as one of the best films ever made and one which proves that bike films don’t always need high-speed stakes to express the relationship between a bike and its rider.

American Flyers

Unlike Breaking Away, American Flyers is about bike riding, full stop. Sure, there are more complex themes in the movie, such as brotherhood and mortality, but the heart of this movie lives in and around its bike racing. It was a thrill the first time I watched it. It remains as much more than thirty years later.

Quicksilver

Two years after American Flyers, at the dawn of one of America’s biggest bike booms ever, came Quicksilver, which stared Kevin Bacon as a lapsed day trader who found his calling—at least for a while—as a New York City bike messenger. Apparently, Bacon considers this “the about lowest point” of his career. Sorry, Kevin, but thousands of young 80s kids who dreamed of moving to a big city and make a living riding their bikes would disagree.

Premium Rush

A spiritual descendant of Quicksilver, Premium Rush centers around a New York City courier—this time it’s Joseph Gordon Levitt—who uses his world-class bike skills to evade a crooked cop through the streets of the City. And just like Kevin Bacon’s character before him, Levitt plays a traditionally successful young man (a Columbia Law grad) disenchanted by the rat race, who finds his joy in the thrill of the ride.

Speaking of being a kid in the 1980s, it was impossible to not dream of BMX glory and for us, Rad was our Rosetta Stone. The only thing that could make Rad more of its time would be more mag wheels. Looking back on it now, once the nostalgia wears off, it’s hard to fathom BMX bikes with seats jacked up so high. And remember those hard plastic seats?!

BMX Bandits

In keeping with the theme here, BMX Bandits is more of an action flick than it is a bike flick. Still, BMX bikes take center stage here. It also gave the world one of its first glimpses at the soon-to-be megastar Nicole Kidman.

The Triplets of Belleville

No bike movie is quite as beautiful as The Triplets of Belleville because no other bike movie was drawn by hand. This animated classic, which features minimal dialogue, takes much of its inspiration from classic cycling imagery—the posters, fliers, and drawings of Tours de France of old—to create a masterpiece that looks like what riding a bike feels like.

Pee Wee’s Big Adventure

Yes, it’s a bike movie.

And, you know what, so is E.T.

Special thanks to the members of the Chapel Hill, North Carolina cycling community, who reminded me of a few classics that I had forgotten.

Michael Venutolo-Mantovani is a writer and musician based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He loves road and track cycling, likes gravel riding, and can often be found trying to avoid crashing his mountain bike. 

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15 Cycling Documentaries You Have to Watch

People all over the world are in love with cycling thanks to its many benefits. Cycling is an excellent way to get around and is also an amazing sport that can take you all over the world. If you want to get inspired and learn more about cycling, then watch these awesome documentaries about it.

Check out also our article on the best cycling movies of all time.

My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes

This documentary tells the story of Gino Bartali, an Italian cyclist who was a hero during World War II. This documentary tells the story of Italians who saved others during the war. Bartali was remarkable and often helped strangers without them even knowing who he was. The famous cyclist never talked about his actions during the war. Years after he died, however, his son (who is featured in the movie) publicized everything through interviews and media coverage. This led to a unique story of selflessness and heroism.

Inspired To Ride

This movie follows the story of cyclists who take on an ambitious challenge: to ride across the United States in just 12 days. The riders take on unpredictable weather and terrain to complete this extremely difficult task. You’ll be amazed at their commitment and dedication!

Overcoming is about a group of cyclists traveling through South America’s mountains, from Bolivia to Colombia. Along the way, they face extreme weather conditions and dangerous roads. The documentary follows their incredible journey as they push themselves to their limits in order to finish their ride. With Ivan Basso, Bjarne Riis, manager of Team CSC, is leading his team to a third-place finish at the 2004 Tour de France.

Sunday in Hell

This amazing documentary takes you through the Paris-Roubaix race. The riders have to battle all kinds of difficult terrain, including cobblestones and mud. Sunday in Hell captures the chaos and excitement of this legendary cycle race. This is the best cycling documentary, according to many people. It realistically captures both the good and bad aspects of this grand race.

Movistar Cycling Documentary

In March 2020, Season one became available on Netflix. It’s a 6-part series showing captivating footage of Spain’s Movistar Team during the 2019 cycling season. You won’t be able to stop watching once you start these behind-the-scenes documentaries.

It’s gorgeously produced and gives off an authentic feeling for the tensions and dynamics between well-known team leaders. This film gives you unique insights into races that occurred not too long ago in history.

Season two came with six episodes, each around 60 minutes long. This covers the Spanish team’s period from August 2020 to January 2021.

Chasing Legends

Chasing Legends follows Team Columbia High Road riders as they compete in the 2009 Tour de France. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping and wild ride, look no further than this documentary. It follows professional cyclists in one of the world’s most challenging races. You’ll get an inside look at what these athletes need to perform at the highest level.

I Just Want To Ride

Tour Divide is one of the most popular off-road ultra-races. In this documentary, you’ll follow the journey of four cyclists as they take on the 2,750-mile course. It’s a grueling ride that will test their physical and mental toughness. The scenery is spectacular and the stories are uplifting.

Road to Glory – Team Sky

This documentary follows Britain’s Team Sky as they compete in the 2017 Tour de France. You’ll get a glimpse into the inner workings of this team and what it takes for them to be successful. It’s a heartwarming story showing how hard these cyclists work to reach their goals.

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist

This movie looks into the life and mysterious death of Italian cyclist Marco Pantani. He was an extremely talented rider, yet his tragic end casts a dark pall over his legacy. This documentary takes an in-depth look at his career as well as what may have led to his untimely demise.

Sean Conway’s ‘Europe or Bust’

In 2019, Sean Conway broke the world record for unsupported cycling across Europe, starting from Portugal to Russia in 24 days. This cycling documentary gives viewers an intimate look at Conway’s journey as he overcomes dangerous roads, relentless headwinds, exhaustion, and poor nutrition. It’s an inspiring story of grit and determination.

Wild Horses

The Silk Road Mountain Race is among the most exquisite and challenging cycling endurance races. Wild Horses follows three cyclists who battle against the odds and their tired bodies with astonishing determination and courage. The stories of these brave competitors will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Into The Rift

To win, one must ride almost constantly, both day and night, for days at a time. This film follows a group of women taking on the Rift Valley in East Africa. The valley is an extremely challenging terrain. The documentary highlights the determination and resilience of these cyclists. The stunning visuals provide an immersive experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for this amazing journey.

23 Days in July

Phil Anderson’s 1983 Tour de France victory was a major milestone in the sport. This documentary follows his journey from start to finish and provides an intimate look into the mind of a champion. You’ll hear from Anderson himself and family members, friends, and other cyclists who were part of this historic event.

Clean Spirit

This movie focuses on the efforts of Team Argos-Shimano. It shows how they work towards their dream of winning a stage at the Tour de France. The film follows them for two years. It shows what it takes to perform at their best in this grueling race. It’s a story that reinforces how hard work and dedication can lead to extraordinary results.

Mamil follows the lives of middle-aged men who ride high-end bikes as a hobby. It looks at this particular demographic and why they spend their free time cycling. The film is full of interviews with riders, family members, and experts in the field. It’s sure to leave you with a greater understanding of this unique cycling culture.

These are but 15 of the many amazing cycling documentaries out there. Whether you’re a hardcore cyclist or just an armchair enthusiast, these films will give you an insight into the sport and its culture. 

About The Author

Antonnette Baker

Hey there! We’re Antonnette and Mario, a sister-and-brother tandem who love bikes and biking.

We and our team use our extensive knowledge about bicycles to help you have a great riding experience.

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10 Best Cycling Documentaries To Watch

• by Jonny Duncan
• November 19, 2023 November 20, 2023

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual enthusiast, these cycling documentaries offer a captivating glimpse into the diverse and compelling world of cycling, where every turn of the pedal spins a story of determination, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence.

Best Cycling Documentaries

In each revolution of the crank, a new chapter unfolds, revealing the diverse landscapes, characters, and emotions that make the world of cycling a rich and cinematic canvas.

On a personal note, I have lived in Amsterdam for 13 years where I cycle everywhere, even from city to city. Whenever I travel I regularly rent or buy bicycles to get around the areas I’m in. I love cycling!

A Sunday in Hell (1976)

A Sunday in Hell is a classic in the genre of cycling documentaries and is often considered one of the greatest sports documentaries ever made. The title refers to the notorious Paris-Roubaix one-day professional cycling race held annually in France, known for its challenging and gruelling course, including sections of rough cobblestone roads.

The documentary provides an in-depth and immersive look at the 1976 Paris-Roubaix race, capturing the intensity, drama, and strategy involved in one of the most demanding races in professional cycling.

The film follows cyclists and their teams navigating the treacherous course, facing obstacles like mud, rain, and the punishing cobblestone sections. It effectively conveys the harsh conditions of the race and the determination of the cyclists to conquer the challenges posed by the course.

The documentary has become a cult classic among cycling enthusiasts and sports documentary aficionados. It provides a unique perspective on the world of professional cycling and the dedication required to compete in such demanding races.

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist (2014)

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist explores the life and career of Italian professional cyclist Marco Pantani, who was one of the most celebrated and successful riders in the late 1990s.

Marco Pantani gained widespread recognition after winning both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France in 1998, a rare achievement known as the “double.” However, his career took a tragic turn as he faced doping allegations and was disqualified from the 1999 Giro d’Italia. Pantani struggled with personal and professional challenges, and his life took a dark turn.

The title, “The Accidental Death of a Cyclist,” refers to Pantani’s death in 2004, which was officially ruled as an accidental overdose of cocaine. The documentary delves into Pantani’s rise to fame, his battles with doping accusations, and the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.

The film combines archival footage, interviews with people close to Pantani, and a reflection on the broader issues of doping in professional cycling. It provides a nuanced look at the complexities of Pantani’s life and the challenges faced by professional cyclists during that era.

Le Ride (2016)

Le Ride is a unique cycling documentary that retraces the route of the 1928 Tour de France on vintage bicycles.

The documentary follows Phil Keoghan and his friend Ben Cornell as they attempt to recreate the challenging and gruelling journey of the original 1928 Tour de France. Their endeavour is particularly notable because they use bicycles from the same era, facing the same conditions and challenges that the cyclists in the 1928 race experienced.

The 1928 Tour de France was an exceptionally difficult race, and “Le Ride” explores the physical and mental endurance required to complete such a demanding course. The film combines elements of adventure, history, and sports, providing a unique perspective on both the world of professional cycling and the cultural context of the late 1920s.

As Keoghan and Cornell pedal through the French countryside, the documentary also delves into the history of the original race, introducing viewers to the cyclists of 1928 and the obstacles they faced. “Le Ride” is not just a cycling adventure but also a historical exploration of the sport and the individuals who helped shape its legacy.

If you’re a fan of historical cycling documentaries or stories of adventure and endurance, “Le Ride” is a great film for you. It combines elements of sports and history, offering a captivating look at the challenges and triumphs of cycling in a bygone era.

North of Nightfall (2018)

North of Nightfall is centred around a group of mountain bikers who embark on an expedition to the uninhabited Axel Heiberg Island in the Arctic Circle. The riders featured in the documentary include Darren Berrecloth, Cam Zink, Carson Storch, and Tom Van Steenbergen, among others.

The film captures the riders as they explore the remote and challenging terrain of Axel Heiberg Island, facing extreme weather conditions, breathtaking landscapes, and the unique challenges that come with mountain biking in such an isolated and harsh environment.

The riders are not only seeking the thrill of conquering uncharted territory but also looking for the opportunity to push the boundaries of their sport. North of Nightfall showcases the beauty of the Arctic landscape and the technical skills required for extreme mountain biking.

The documentary also explores the environmental impact of such expeditions and the importance of preserving these pristine, untouched areas.

This is one of my favourite cycling documentaries for adventure.

Time Trial (2017)

Time Trial provides an intimate and immersive look into the world of professional cycling, focusing on the career of British cyclist David Millar. Directed by Finlay Pretsell, the film follows Millar during the last years of his professional cycling career.

David Millar was a prominent cyclist who faced both triumphs and setbacks during his career. He was initially known for his successes, including stage wins in the Tour de France, but his career took a turn when he was suspended from the sport in 2004 for doping violations.

Time Trial captures Millar’s journey as he makes a comeback after serving his suspension and contends with the physical and mental challenges of professional cycling.

The documentary provides a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the sport, offering a glimpse into the physical and psychological toll of competitive cycling, particularly the individual time trial discipline. The film also explores Millar’s reflections on his career, the changing landscape of professional cycling, and his personal growth.

Icarus (2017)

Icarus starts out as an exploration of the impact of performance-enhancing drugs in amateur cycling but takes an unexpected turn into a broader investigation into state-sponsored doping in Russia.

Bryan Fogel, an amateur cyclist, initially sets out to examine the effects of doping on his performance in the Haute Route, a gruelling amateur cycling race. To do so, he enlists the help of Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov, a Russian scientist and head of the anti-doping laboratory in Moscow.

However, as Fogel and Rodchenkov work together, the film takes a dramatic turn when Rodchenkov becomes a key whistleblower, revealing the extent of state-sponsored doping in Russian sports, particularly during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.

Icarus sheds light on the elaborate doping schemes orchestrated by the Russian government and explores the broader implications of doping on the integrity of sports. The film received widespread acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2018.

The title Icarus refers to the Greek myth of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun with wings made of feathers and wax. The story is often seen as a cautionary tale about hubris and the consequences of overreaching.

Stop at Nothing: The Lance Armstrong Story (2014)

Stop at Nothing: The Lance Armstrong Story provides a detailed and critical examination of the rise and fall of Lance Armstrong, one of the most celebrated and controversial figures in the history of professional cycling.

Lance Armstrong achieved unprecedented success by winning the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005. His story was not only one of athletic achievement but also of overcoming testicular cancer and establishing the Livestrong Foundation, which raised awareness and funds for cancer research.

However, Armstrong’s reputation took a major hit when he was stripped of his Tour de France titles in 2012 following an investigation by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).

The investigation revealed a systematic and sophisticated doping program within Armstrong’s cycling teams. The cycling documentary delves into the details of Armstrong’s career, the doping allegations, and the subsequent fallout.

Stop at Nothing features interviews with key individuals involved in Armstrong’s career, including former teammates, journalists, and anti-doping officials. It paints a comprehensive picture of the complexities surrounding Armstrong’s success, his aggressive tactics against those who questioned him, and the ultimate consequences of his actions.

The Stars and the Water Carriers (1973)

The Stars and the Water Carriers is a classic out of these cycling documentaries. Directed by Jørgen Leth, a Danish filmmaker, the documentary provides a cinematic exploration of the 1973 Giro d’Italia , one of the three Grand Tours in professional cycling.

The film captures the essence of the Giro d’Italia, showcasing the beauty of the Italian landscape and the challenges faced by cyclists as they navigate the various stages of the race.

The title, “The Stars and the Water Carriers,” alludes to the distinction between the star riders, who compete for victory, and the water carriers (domestiques), who play a supporting role by assisting the team leaders.

This cycling documentary is regarded as a classic in the genre and has been praised for its cinematography and its ability to capture the drama and emotion of the Giro d’Italia. It provides an insider’s view of the sport, allowing you to experience the intensity, strategy, and camaraderie that define professional cycling.

Tour de France: Unchained (2023)

Tour de France: Unchained is not a documentary in the traditional sense but is a docu-series following the Tour de France.

In stages, it follows the riders across the entire event of the Tour de France giving you an in-depth look at it. It’s also one of the more recent cycling documentary options for you to watch.

Riding Bikes with the Dutch

I can’t help but add this one here at the end as having lived in Amsterdam for 13 years, I love it. It’s one of my favourite cycling documentaries.

Delve into the cycling culture of the Netherlands, where bikes are an integral part of daily life. This documentary takes you on a journey through the bike-friendly streets of Amsterdam and beyond, exploring how cycling is deeply woven into the fabric of Dutch society.

These cycling documentaries, like well-worn paths, invite you to embark on a compelling voyage that extends beyond the handlebars.

In the pulsating rhythm of rubber meeting asphalt, cycling transcends the mere act of pedalling; it becomes a journey of passion, perseverance, and unparalleled human connection.

For more on cycling have a look at my article about the best cycling routes in Amsterdam .

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Eight of the best cycling films streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ and iPlayer

The best cycling-related films and documentaries available to watch online

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Last week, Movistar released the long-awaited third season of their Netflix series 'The Least Expected Day'. 

The series is an insightful documentary going behind the scenes into life in the Movistar camp at the Grand Tours over the last three years. Viewers get an access all areas pass to be a fly on the wall in disputes over tactics, rows over who is the team’s leader at the Giro d’Italia and to see riders at their lowest point after crashing out of major races. 

In the latest series, the highlight is undoubtedly an inside look at the row between Miguel Ángel López and team management at the 2021 Vuelta a España which ultimately resulted in ‘Superman’ climbing off the bike and refusing to continue. 

If you enjoyed watching the latest instalment of 'The Least Expected Day', then here’s eight of the best of the rest in cycling-related films and documentaries available to view online. 

Some are available free of charge whereas others require a small fee. Depending on where you are in the world, you might have more or less choice on any of these streaming platforms; this was written from what we can get in the UK.

 SLAYING THE BADGER 

Available to stream on Disney Plus, 'Slaying the Badger’ is a documentary looking back at the pivotal 1986 Tour de France and is based on the book by the late Richard Moore. 

Now that Lance Armstrong has been firmly scratched from Tour de France record books, Greg LeMond is the first and only American rider to have ever won the three-week race. In the film, LeMond reflects on his rivalry and friendship with his teammate, mentor and five-time Tour de France champion Bernard Hinault. 

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Legend has it that Hinault agreed to help LeMond to his first Tour de France victory in return for the American agreeing to work for him during the previous year. The film swiftly lays bare the dynamics of the La Vie Claire team during the 1986 race and what then happened out on the road. 

ICARUS 

Currently available on Netflix, ‘Icarus’ is a 2017 Oscar-winning American documentary film. 

It chronicles the writer Bryan Fogel’s exploration into the murky world of doping in order to win an amateur cycling race. In the process of doing so, he inadvertently discovers a major international doping scandal. 

Fogel enlists the help of a scientist named Grigory Rodchenkov, the director of Russia’s national anti-doping laboratory. 

What he then discovers causes shock waves throughout the world of sport and ultimately results in Rodchenkov being kept in protective custody by US Law Enforcement. 

ONBOARD THE TRANSCONTINENTAL RACE 

Available on Netflix, this 2019 documentary looks into the gruelling Transcontinental race. 

Twenty-four-year-old Fiona Kolbinger took first place making her the first female winner of the event. The film directed by Antonin Michaud Soret is an inside look at just what it takes to ride the most challenging of bike races. 

Watching the film leaves you feeling like you’re riding along with competitors on 18-hour days, across Europe's most breath-taking scenery in the ultimate test of cycling endurance.

LANCE 

This two-part documentary chronicling the fall from grace of Lance Armstrong is currently available to view on the BBC iPlayer . 

Based on in-depth interviews and conversations with the Texan, the two 90-minute long films tell the full story of his rise in the United States as a top level cyclist, as well as his battle with testicular cancer and recovery.

The film then continues to go over his rise to cycling stardom that came with his seven consecutive Tour de France yellow jerseys, before that dramatic interview with television host Oprah Winfrey in which Armstrong famously confessed to doping throughout his career. 

Currently available to stream for free on Amazon Prime, 'The Racer' is a fictional story of a pro cyclist called Felix who dreams of becoming world champion. 

Once the protagonist joins a team in Italy, he is dragged into the murky waters of corruption and performance-enhancing drugs. 

How far is Felix willing to go to pursue his dream of the rainbow bands?

BREAKING THE CYCLE

'Breaking the Cycle' is the story of former ski-mountaineer Anton Palzer’s journey to becoming a professional cyclist. 

Palzer currently rides for Bora-Hansgrohe and the German rider was recently given a new contract by his team for next season. The film on Amazon Prime sees Palzer as well as his coaches and team manager Ralf Denk talk through the 29-year-old’s journey and his first steps into pro racing at the 2021 Tour of the Alps and Tour de Suisse. 

Currently available to stream with Amazon Prime and on the Red Bull website . 

THE TRIPLETS OF BELLEVILLE / BELLEVILLE RENDEZVOUS

Currently available on Amazon Prime, 'Belleville Rendezvous' should be top of anyone’s must watch cycling films. An absolute classic, which beautifully depicts the passion of cycling through the eyes of one of the protagonists' grandchildren. 

Although there is a twist. 

Madame Souza instills a love of cycling in her young grandson who eventually becomes a road racer dreaming of lining up at the Tour de France. However, when he eventually arrives at the French Grand Tour he goes missing. 

Madame Souza and her faithful pet dog are then left with the daunting task of discovering what has become of her young cycling prodigy. 

THE PROGRAM

'The Program' regularly turns up on the various streaming platforms out there including the BBC iPlayer. It’s currently available to rent on Amazon Prime. 

Based on the book ‘Seven Deadly Sins: My pursuit of Lance Armstrong’ by award-winning journalist David Walsh, the film depicts the author's efforts to expose the Texan's wrongdoings as a drugs cheat.

Chris O’Dowd plays Walsh in the motion picture, which also features Dustin Hoffman and Jesse Plemons.

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Tom joined Cycling Weekly in early 2022 and his news stories, rider interviews and features appear both online and in the magazine. 

He has reported from some of professional cycling's biggest races and events including the Tour de France and the recent Glasgow World Championships. He has also covered races elsewhere across the world and interviewed some of the sport's top riders. 

When not writing news scoops from the WorldTour, or covering stories from elsewhere in the domestic professional scene, he reports on goings on at bike shops up and down the UK, where he is based when not out on the road at races. He has also appeared on the Radio Cycling podcast. 

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The documentary features new, extensive interviews with Armstrong as well as a number of his former team-mates, rivals and friends

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The 27 Best Cycling Documentaries You Should Watch

Kevin Curry

COVID-19 is keeping a lot of us indoors. The boredom of indoor training in addition to every bike race being cancelled is a real downer, especially during what is normally one of the best times of the year to be a cycling fan. Despite there being no spring classics, you can brighten your Zwifting or couch beer drinking with some of the best cycling documentaries ever made.

A Sunday In Hell

This Sunday would have been the 118th Paris-Roubaix. Second only to the Tour de France in terms of recognition, l’Enfer du Nord, the Hell of the North, is all about the punishing cobbles. Danish filmmaker Jørgen Leth’s famous documentary of the 1976 edition, A Sunday In Hell (En ForÃ¥rsdag i Helvede), is 44-years-old and available in all its glory on YouTube.

Filmmaker Bryan Fogel sets out on a mission to learn about performance-enhancing drugs in sports. What he ends up discovering is far bigger than anyone could have even imagined. Icarus on Netflix August 4, 2017. Watch Icarus on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80168079

Slaying the Badger

American Greg Lemond helped teammate Bernard Hinault, The Badger, win the Tour de France as teammates. In 1986, it was supposed to be LeMond’s turn, but would it be? It was a turning point in cycling. Watch the full 30 for 30 on ESPN+.

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist

The unique and compelling story of one man taking on the mountains, an athlete’s battle against addiction, set against the dramatic background of the Alps during the Tour de France, Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist is the tragic tale of Marco Pantani versus himself. In 1998, Marco Pantani, the most flamboyant and popular cyclist of his era, won both the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. This titanic feat of physical and mental endurance has never since been matched. Pantani was a hero to millions and was seen as the savior of cycling during a time when doping scandals threatened to destroy the sport. But six years after this extraordinary feat and only 34 years old, tragically, Pantani was dead. Discovered in a cheap Italian hotel, he died alone from acute cocaine poisoning. Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist explores the true story behind this remarkable man’s achievements and his tragic fall. Purchase the full documentary on YouTube.

El Día Menos Pensado | Inside Movistar Team

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pO6vkMz7Y3k

“The least expected day” – following the Movistar team through the 2019 season – a fascinating 6 part documentary insight. Watch on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81130094

MAMIL – Middle Aged Men in Lycra

During the week, they are white-collar professionals with responsible jobs, families and mortgages. Come the weekend, they transform into Lycra-clad super heroes; road warriors on expensive carbon framed bikes traveling in packs and competing with other males for dominance in the group. MAMIL is a feature length documentary that dares to enter this secret world of middle-aged men to uncover the reasons they take to the road. Narrated by Tour de France and cycling commentator, Phil Liggett.  Full documentary on Vimeo for $7.99.

All For One

United by their renegade spirit and a determination to win against substantial odds, these riders take on the international circuit. The film offers unique insights into the first five years of their journey, bearing witness to the ethos of the team as embodied by all – from the strongest to most embattled members. Out of a culture that embraces a deeply human approach to sport, unlikely champions are born, and seemingly improbable team and personal goals are achieved.  Available on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/all-for-one/id1360659316

Chasing Legends

Gripped Films presents Chasing Legends, documenting the 2009 Tour de France through the eyes of the Columbia HTC professional cycling team and the legends of the sport.  Grab it here: https://www.amazon.com/Chasing-Legends-Passion-Glory-France/dp/B007EU81AA

American Crit II

In this feature-length sequel to last year’s American Crit, the men of Butcherbox Cycling are back for another whiplash season of USA CRITS racing. From the drama of the legendary Athens Twilight criterium, to an in-depth look at the famed Tulsa Tough series, AC II puts the sheer ferocity of American criterium racing and the unassailable tenacity of the human spirit on full display.

Rising From Ashes

Rising from Ashes is a feature length documentary about the first Rwandan national cycling team in their bid to make history and represent their country at the 2012 Olympics. Competing in a white man’s sport, reserved for the privileged, a rag tag group of cyclists coached by the first American to ride in the Tour de France, are transformed into a powerful symbol of hope for a country recovering from one of the world’s most devastating genocides.  Watch on Netflix.

TIME TRIAL gives us an exhilarating and terrifying place in the race, providing an immersive experience as close to actually competing as you will ever see on film. David Millar, shrouded in darkness, declares an intention to rise again. A sensory ride through the thrill and hardship of professional cycling. We are hurtled off a hillside, details blurring like watercolours. The euphoria and the fatigue, the highs and the lows. It’s as if it were ourselves struggling through the bumpy roads of France. David bluntly and fearlessly narrates his last season in the saddle, intimate and immediate, along with the intricate relationships of cyclist, road crew, fellow competitors, manic fans, and the media circus surrounding it all.

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6 Cycling Documentaries to Watch on Netflix Right Now

• By Brian Kendall

Few things keep a hardcore cyclist from their daily ride: inclement weather bordering on code-red regional emergencies, asteroids colliding with the earth, inexplicable raging fires or, perhaps, other major apocalyptic scenarios (maybe). And for these rare and unfortunate occasions, what must a cyclist do to scratch that never-ending itch to hop on two wheels? We recommend sitting back on the couch—or better yet, hopping on your trainer—and checking out one of these documentaries streaming on Netflix right now.

Stop at Nothing: The Lance Armstrong Story

It's hard to believe that in 2007, Lance Armstrong was the greatest feel-good story of the past decade. Yet, his quick downfall, which included the revelation of years of lying about doping while simultaneously throwing everybody under the bus who dare suggest he cheated to capture seven Tour de France titles, turns into one of the most tragic documentaries of the past few years. While some might interpret this film as a hack job on Armstrong, it still provides amazing insights into the character of a man who did literally anything to win.

Bikes vs. Cars

A bike can be an incredible tool, functioning as both a mode of transportation and a means for recreation. But with the growth of cyclists in urban life—from commuters to serious athletes—conflicts in city planning arise to support cars, bikes, buses and the planet's growing dependence on fossil fuels. Highlighting interviews with urban planners and studies of traffic-related issues in urban areas, the benefits of large-scale bike-commuting are exposed.

Inspired to Ride

Without the support, perks or incentives of a typical race, this documentary follows a group of 45 cyclists riding along the stunning yet onerous 4,233-mile TransAmerica Trail purely for the joy and pride of cycling. Taking a closer look at a handful of riders, viewers will get an in-depth look at what it takes to prepare for and ride over 300 miles a day on only a few hours of sleep. From steep climbs in the Rockies and fierce winds in the Great Plains to gnarly switchbacks in the Appalachians, the goal isn't to win. It's merely to finish.

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist

With a clean-shaven head, bandana, a general pirate-like persona and aggressive riding style, Italian Marco Pantani was one of professional cycling's most popular characters. It helps that he was also one hell of a rider, capturing two grand tour titles in 1998. But his battle with drug addiction and sudden death at the age of 34 rocked the cycling world. This tragic documentary that follows the life and death of one of the sport's most beloved cyclists is certainly worth 90 minutes on the couch.

Personal Gold: An Underdog Story

After Lance Armstrong's undoing—and the subsequent banning of the U.S. men's cycling team from the 2012 Olympics—the American medal hopes rested with the women's track cycling team. This inspiring story follows their journey to London with the support of the families and friends. Personal Gold takes an up-close and personal look at the group's monumental task of improving by six seconds in a sport that is determined by less than one. This documentary is the underdog story of the 2012 Olympics.

My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes

More a documentary about heroism during World War II than it is about cycling, this film follows the brave exploits of cycling legend Gino Bartali, who participated in a secret underground network to protect Jews from Nazi persecution. With most of the continent of Europe engulfed in genocide, thanks to the efforts of unheralded heroes like Bartali, over 80 percent of Italian Jews survived. This is a tragic but gripping documentary highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a little history with their cycling.

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Best Bicycle Documentaries on Netflix Right Now

Check out these great bicycle documentaries for your Netflix bike-movie fix.

In the realm of streaming content, Netflix has become a treasure trove for enthusiasts seeking bicycle documentaries that delve into the fascinating world of cycling. From epic journeys across continents to insightful explorations of cycling culture, the platform offers a curated selection of bicycle documentaries that cater to a spectrum of interests. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best bicycle documentaries currently available on Netflix, each offering a unique perspective on the passion, challenges, and triumphs that define the world of cycling. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or simply intrigued by the allure of life on two wheels, these documentaries are sure to pedal their way into your watchlist.

Bikes Vs Cars (2015) Bikes vs Cars depicts a global crisis that we all deep down know we need to talk about: climate, earth’s resources, cities where the entire surface is consumed by the car. An ever-growing, dirty, noisy traffic chaos. The bike is a great tool for change, but the powerful interests who gain from the private car invest billions each year on lobbying and advertising to protect their business. In the film we meet activists and thinkers who are fighting for better cities, who refuse to stop riding despite the increasing number killed in traffic.

Available in USA

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist (2014) In 1998 Marco Pantani, the most flamboyant and popular cyclist of his era, won both the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia – a titanic feat of physical and mental endurance that no rider has repeated since. He was a hero to millions – the saviour of professional cycling following the doping scandals which threatened to destroy the sport. However, less than six years later, aged just 34, he died alone, in a cheap Italian hotel room. This film is not just about cycling but an emotional exploration of what drives athletes to compete; man versus mountain, athlete versus the system, Marco Pantani versus himself.

Available in USA & Canada

Pedaling Towards Happiness: 7 Mental Health Benefits of Riding Bikes

Stop at Nothing (2014) The film reveals how Armstrong’s cheating was the centre of a grand conspiracy – in which Lance and his backers sought to steal one of the greatest sporting events in history. It shows what happens when a close-knit group of friends shares a secret and how that secret corrodes their friendship, destroying marriages, careers and lives.

Inspired to Ride (2014) Inspired to Ride follows a handful of cyclists from around the world as they race unsupported in the inaugural year of a 4,233 mile transcontinental race across the USA. This race is the antithesis to events like Tour de France and Race Across America. There are no teams, no support vehicles, no special jerseys and not a dime in prize money. As they battle lack of sleep, injuries and spirited competition, Inspired to Ride takes you on an invigorating road trip — amidst the jaw-dropping beauty of the TransAmerica Trail with its varied landscapes, intriguing locals and found stories which dot this path of discovery.

My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes (2014) My Italian Secret tells the story of cycling idol Gino Bartali, Dr. Giovanni Borromeo, and other courageous Italians who carried out ingenious schemes to rescue Jews, partisans, and refugees from Nazi-occupied Italy. Celebrated as a Tour De France champion, Gino Bartali’s most daring triumph came when he risked his life to save Italian Jews by smuggling fake identification documents in the frame of his bicycle. Dr. Borromeo invented a fictitious disease to scare the SS away from the hospital where he was hiding Jews. These men, and the networks in which they worked, reflect the efforts of thousands of Italians who risked their lives to save others. As an entire continent was engulfed in genocide, more than 80 percent of Italy’s Jews survived.

Personal Gold: An Underdog Story (2014) This is a behind-the-scenes experience of four underdog women cyclists who become America’s hope for a medal at the 2012 London Olympics after the men’s team is banned during the Lance Armstrong drug scandal. The underfunded women turn to volunteers, including their husbands and an innovative approach using ‘Data not Doping’ in an attempt to do the impossible; win the first U.S. Women’s Track Cycling medal in over 20 years.

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Line of Sight!

Breaking Away.

“Breaking Away” is a classic that won an academy award.

“30 for 30: Slaying the Badger” Story of Greg LeMond and his teammate Bernard Hinault. Along with the Pantani story I’ve watched them over a dozen times.

“Murder of Couriers” – a documentary about bicycle couriers. Very thought provoking, a must see, excellent alternative to all the “heroes” of cycling listed.

Thanks for the suggestion Joe. Will definitely check it out. A Vancouver film too! Bonus!

I highly recommend ‘My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes’.

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Pedal The World – A Young Man’s Movie About His 365 Day Bike Tour Around The World

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In his 90-minute documentary movie, Pedal The World , German-born Felix Starck sets out from home and pedals a bicycle more than 18,000 kilometers through 22 countries in just 365 days. Watch the trailer… and then read my detailed review of the movie below.

Bicycle touring is often a personal endeavor. You don’t do it for fame or fortune. You do it because, for some strange reason, it sounds like something you’d like to do. You want to challenge yourself, see the world, have new experiences and return home a changed individual.

Days on the road can be long and lonely at times. Weeks can pass where you talk to no one and nothing exceptional seems to happen. Inner progress is difficult to measure, but the miles/kilometers keep adding up.

When times get tough, and they most certainly will, you’ll be forced to ask yourself, “Why exactly am I doing this?” And then, you’ll need to find the strength of jump back on your bike and keep going.

When you least expect it, something small will happen (you’ll meet a new person, witness a kind deed, or enjoy the wind in your face as you sprint downhill), and suddenly you’ll remember why you’re doing this… why you left home in the first place… and why you must keep going.

Pedal The World – Felix Starck’s new documentary film about his bicycle tour “around the world” is, in my opinion, a quality attempt at trying to show an outsider what it’s like to pedal a bicycle thousands of kilometers through multiple countries in just a single year. Through this 90-minute movie consisting of high-quality vacation-style footage, we get to tag along on Felix’s bicycle touring adventure as he slowly hops around the globe to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

Setting out from his home in Germany, Felix pedals south across Europe to Turkey, before jumping on a plane and heading to Southeast Asia, then New Zealand and the United States before eventually returning home to his friends and family exactly one year later.

Felix admits (on his website) that other adventurers have traveled longer distances and undertaken more challenging journeys. But his trip by bike wasn’t about trying to set any records or even about the cycling itself. “It was much more about documenting my personal experience.”

And that’s what Pedal The World really is. It’s a 90-minute summary of Felix’s 365 days on the road. It’s basically the most well-edited vacation footage you’ll ever see. Very much in the style of the documentary films by Eat. Sleep. Surf. ( which I have reviewed previously here on Bicycle Touring Pro ), Pedal The World is a homemade movie in which the young, bearded Starck turns the camera on himself and records his personal cycle touring journey around the world.

While I enjoyed the movie overall (which is available in both English and German) I think the film lacks any lasting message or theme. Pedal The World does a good job documenting Felix’s bicycle touring adventures and a few of the struggles/highlights he experienced along the way, but it lacks emotion and much of the “magic” I’ve seen in similar homemade bicycle touring/travel films, such as Tom Allen’s Janapar – Love, on a Bike and Brook Silva-Braga’s A Map For Saturday .

In Tom Allen’s Janapar , for example, Tom is only a fraction of the way through his bicycle touring adventures around the world when he meets a young Armenian girl named Tenny and he’s forced to decide between continuing his bicycle tour and leaving his chance at love behind… or giving up on his bike tour completely to pursue his chance at love. It is this single conflict that the whole film is centered around… and it is this one decision that turns Tom from a self-centered young man at the beginning of the film into a caring and changed individual by its end. While Tom is the focus of his film at its start, the story quickly flips from being about Tom and his personal quest to cycle around the world, to something that every person on the planet can relate to – the desire to love and be loved in return.

A Map For Saturday is another personal journey around the world by a single filmmaker/traveler. But this film excels because even though the movie’s creator, Brook Silva-Braga, is the centerpiece around which the entire movie flows, the filmmaker really only plays a small part in the finished piece. Instead, it’s the people Brook meets during his travels that makes this movie work. By the time A Map For Saturday is over, you not only feel like you’re friends with Brook, but you feel like you’ve made friends with all of his friends, and you (as the film’s viewer) want nothing more than to make friends with the rest of the world.

While there are a few small conflicts in Starck’s Pedal The World (i.e. he’s caught in a downpour, a spoke on his wheel breaks, he’s ticketed for cycling on the highway, etc), nothing noteworthy ever really happens.

Even when something meaningful does seem to occur, such as when his riding partner abandons him, he spends several weeks cycling with a friend/love interest in New Zealand, or his grandfather back home dies unexpectedly, we only get a small taste of the story before Felix is off to the next location, cycling about and shooting his 360 degree selfies. This, I believe, was a missed opportunity from a storytelling standpoint.

Take, for example, when Felix’s friend/love interest, Selima Taibi (a former contestant on the TV show – The Voice of Germany), joins him for an undisclosed amount of time in southeast Asia. During this short part of the film, we see several shots of the attractive young woman sitting in a bikini top on the bow of a wooden boat. She doesn’t say a word. Even when Selima returns in a later part of the film to cycle with Felix through New Zealand, she again lacks even a single speaking role. Of the half-dozen or so people that joined Felix on his bike tour around the world, I don’t remember any of them saying much more than a word or two in the film.

There is a lot to like about this movie, however. The cinematography is good, the editing is on pace, and the story moves quickly from one location to the next. While there is no one momentous event that drives the film forward, there is one memorable moment in the movie, which occurs at the film’s very end.

After 365 days on the road, Felix returns to the part of the world he is most familiar with and is greeted back home by a small crowd of friends, family members, neighbors and loved ones, who are waiting in the street for him as he cycles up the road, rolls to a stop and completes his successful “round the world” quest.

As Felix rides up, you can hear people cheering, celebratory horns are blown, a local cameraman records the event, and as Felix hugs what appears to be his grandmother, a woman with blonde hair and sunglasses (Felix’s mother perhaps?) wipes a tear from her eye. Felix is home!

Darren Alff

My goal as the "Bicycle Touring Pro" is to give you the confidence and inspiration you need to travel by bicycle anywhere in the world. I'm here to help you plan, prepare for, and execute your first bike tour and remove all the guesswork, wasted time and frustration that plagues so many first-time bicycle travelers.

10 thoughts on “ Pedal The World – A Young Man’s Movie About His 365 Day Bike Tour Around The World ”

Oh my………a few days ago I watched his bike trip video which more clearly should be called a “selfie – trip”. It was all about him and himself and “me’ and “I” and so totally boring it made my heart ache. His constant complaining about ‘too hot’ and ‘too cold’ and how he was lonely – of all places in Thailand – and even bored was mind-insulting to any true traveller. Because I cycled the world and it took me a bit longer

Worst ‘documentary’ ever!

The editing is awful. Starts with a trailer, doesn’t have a trailer 49km later. He takes so much luggage he looks like he is moving house, and then magically most of that is gone in Thailand (and new bags?) with no explanation.

He goes round in circles. There is nothing about the actual journey or route. Nothing about the countries he ‘travels’ though, the people, culture anything!

Just me me me I am so board, I have a cough, I am so lonely, other people piss me off, but I am lonely. Ooooooh look some girl came out to see me and we shagged a lot and here’s 10 mins of selfies in a single tourist spot.

Travel companions come and go with no mention.

Faux deep and meaningful monologues to the camera.

Almost zero footage of cycling or scenery, 99% footage has his big head in the centre Of the shot complaining.

I can’t believe Netflix have given this a platform, it deserves to be consigned to archives and only wheeled out to be shown to his long suffering friends every Christmas.

Pedal the World is a very inaccurate title.

“Pedal some bits of the world I really want to see on an extended holiday and fly the rest” would be more accurate

Hey Darren, mat hall again here from our YouTube chats recently! I’m still researching ideas and gathering nuggets of information ready to collate all my footage and make our London to Istanbul cycle movie. I really valued your review here and the comments people left. I have to say I completely agree. I enjoyed watching it because I was interested in the cinematography behind it and logistics of filming on the go but I agree it has let itself down by having no dialogue really with anyone else, and very little of what actually happens!! I take a lot of confidence that my ‘couple cycle london to Istanbul film’ can be good enough to make Netflix! Which makes me wonder if you will ever try and break Amazon or Netflix???

Katherine get a hold of yourself, it’s a documentary about a young man that bicycles through grueling terrain.

Sooo many questions. Why isn’t he completely trashed after these crazy rides? His gear always looks new. Why isn’t he sun burned or brown after daily ride in the sun?! There would be real wear and tear. He would have massively slimmed down. I call b&”@?!t Total fantasy.

Katherine, if you think this is the worst “documentary” you´ve ever seen then avoid the one in which Starck and the girl he shags in the beach refit a school bus and decide to travel to South America: ‘Expedition Happiness’. The name almost says it all…

In addition to being embarrassed by what you´re watching 99% of the time, it includes some animal abuse.

I related to Felix, especially on the hills, having biked around most part of Sicily and over the mountain past Etna in 40 degree heat. I think its a wonderful idea to travel by bike, zero emissions apart from the planes to the various countries, and taking them in at your own pace.

I have a dream of pedaling around the world myself, how do you go about planning the trip?

Start by reading this book: http://www.biketourbook.com It will teach you how to plan, prepare and execute the bike tour you’ve been dreaming about.

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The 13 Best Documentaries About Cycling

Aug 1, 2023 | Best Of , Health , Sports

Whether you’re an avid cyclist, or just a fan of documentaries in general, there is something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to the best cycling-related films. From awe-inspiring tales of endurance and bravery on two wheels, to humorous accounts of biking culture around the world – these 13 remarkable documentaries will inform, inspire and entertain. Take a journey with us as we explore some of the most captivating stories about cycling ever told on film!

1. Three Peaks & In Between

Follow Jana on an incredible journey as she takes part in the Three Peaks Bike Race. Along her 2000-kilometer adventure, she experiences a wide range of emotions and climbs over 30,000 meters of altitude gain. The end result is that this race shows us that it’s not about reaching the finish line but rather all about the moments during the journey that create lasting memories.

2. Cycling’s Greatest Fraud in History

Lance Edward Armstrong was one of the most successful professional road racers in cycling history. He won an incredible seven consecutive Tour de France titles from 1999 to 2005, becoming the 1993 professional world champion along the way. Unfortunately, in 2012 he was banned from sanctioned Olympic sports for life due to a long-term doping scandal; as part of his punishment all results going back to August 1998 were voided. Learn more about his story and legacy by watching this video!

3. Cycling Patagonia – An Autumn Adventure

We took an incredible two-month journey through Patagonia that proved to be one of our best experiences yet. Join us as we cycle 12,760 km through South America and explore the breathtaking Patagonian wilderness! We were fortunate enough to experience this beautiful place during low season, allowing us to enjoy the stunning fall colors in peace. Watch our video to see why cycling Patagonia is a decision you won’t regret!

4. Two Wheel Freedom

Michael has always been passionate about life on two wheels. From Iowa’s motocross tracks to Sedona’s red rocks, he has spent more time riding his bike than walking. Join us as we take a journey with Michael and explore the true meaning of freedom in the wild. Along the way, discover what it means for him and how you can find your own sense of liberation.

5. Best Cycling Documentaries

Experience the thrilling and unforgettable journey of one of the greatest cycling films ever made! “A Sunday in Hell” or En Forårsdag i Helvede as it was known in Denmark, directed by Jørgen Leth, captures the 1976 Paris-Roubaix race. Follow along with this amazing documentary as cyclists battle through cobblestones and treacherous terrain on their way to victory. See who will prevail while you experience a unique look at one of the toughest races in history.

6. The Road to the Tour de France

Team DSM is taking viewers on a journey to the Tour de France in this documentary. Follow along as they take you through the highs and lows of their preparation for one of the biggest cycling events in history. Learn how hard work, dedication, and resilience can lead to success while also experiencing some unique behind-the-scenes moments with Team DSM.

7. A JOURNEY BEYOND II

Marc Maurer has always been an outdoor adventure enthusiast, but it wasn’t until he set off on a cycling journey from Cologne to Istanbul that his love for exploration by bike began. In 2014, Marc set out on the epic trip and when he arrived in Turkey, cancelled his return flight and decided to pedal all the way back home! Hear from Marc himself about his incredible experience of discovering the world one bike ride at a time.

8. Cycling: Still the Greatest

Experience the adrenaline rush of cycling with this amazing documentary. Featuring some of the world’s best cyclists and their coaches, it presents highlights from iconic events like the 1976 Olympics and 1978 Commonwealth Games. Watch as these athletes prepare for competition and race to victory!

9. Team Jumbo-Visma

Join us for a thrilling journey that tells the story of our remarkable Tour de France performance. In Plan B, we take you through the highs and lows of an unpredictable first week and how it led to one of our most successful races ever! From heart-stopping moments to incredible comebacks, this documentary is sure to leave you inspired.

10. From Cape to Cairo by Bike

This incredible documentary follows the journey of an intrepid cyclist as he embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—pedaling his way from Cape Town to Cairo. Along the way, he encounters breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, meets friendly locals, and experiences different cultures. Watch this inspiring story unfold in Free Documentary Nature’s “From Cape to Cairo by Bike”!

11. Burundi – The Racing Cyclists

Experience the thrill of a cross-country journey in Burundi with Tharcien, a daring bike courier. Follow him on his exhausting trip as he transports bananas from the local markets to a banana beer brewing factory – an essential task for this African nation’s economy. See how bicycles are an integral part of life in one of Africa’s smallest countries and get inspired by Tharcien’s courage!

12. The Impossible Route

Experience the incredible beauty and challenge of FAR WEST TEXAS in this cycling documentary. From the breathtaking views to the gruelling climbs, join us as we take you on an adventure across one of America’s last frontiers. Explore a unique landscape that will test your limits and inspire your heart!

13. Bicycle Documentary

Discover the world of cycling in this special documentary! From the history and culture of biking to the latest technologies, learn all about two-wheeled transportation. We’ll also explore how bikes are being used to make a difference around the world. Join us for an unforgettable journey that will leave you inspired and ready to hit the road!

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Isolation Archives: Our All-Time Favorite Bikepacking Films

In need of some entertainment to prevent yourself from going totally stir crazy while locked down due to COVID-19? Presenting the Isolation Archives, our roundup of highlights from our deep well of bikepacking content. First up, we’re sharing our favorite bikepacking films of all time. Watch them here…

While most of us are indefinitely self-isolating to help slow the spread of COVID-19, our editors are looking into the BIKEPACKING.com archives and rounding up some the most memorable and meaningful things we’ve shared over the years. First up, we look back at our favorite bikepacking films of all time. We invite you to sit back and enjoy more than two hours of hand-picked films, shot in Alaska, Canada, Colorado, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and Scotland. When you’ve finished watching our picks, scroll down to vote for your favorite. And be sure to dig into our bikepacking videos archive, where you just might discover a new favorite of your own.

Bikepacking the Cairngorms

Cass Gilbert: Bikepacking the Cairngorms: A Father and Son Fatbike Adventure follows Jeremy Janin and his father on a self-supported fat bike trip along Scotland’s beautiful and remote Cairngorms Loop. Jeremy spent months carefully planning the five-day trip (which just so happened to be their first time bikepacking) as a gift for his dad’s 50th birthday. Despite trying to think of everything in advance, nothing went to plan, and the famously unpredictable Scottish weather made for challenging conditions and a powerful shared experience. Picking a favourite film is no easy task, but Jeremy’s work certainly stood out for me from last year’s collection. I love everything about it. The stunning cinematography, the colour grading, the voice over, the sound captures, the fabulous music, and the accompanying stills to the trip. And as a parent, I found it incredibly inspiring!

Bikepacking the Mongolian Steppe

Lucas Winzenburg: Released in 2016, Bikepacking the Mongolian Steppe is a film from Jay Ritchey that chronicles a month-long fat bike trip through the beautiful Khangai Mountains in Central Mongolia. Jay’s cinematography masterfully captures the country’s sweeping vistas and the subtle details, occasionally strange interactions, and heartfelt moments of their unique trip. Paired with a traditional throat singing soundtrack by Huun Huur Tu, it makes for a truly immersive viewing experience. You’ll get to know the charismatic crew of riders (including our own Cass Gilbert) and a bit about life and culture in Mongolia in Jay’s 25-minute film. As I see it, this is bikepacking at its best!

Chasing Wild

Miles Arbour: Chasing Wild follows three friends on a bikepacking and packrafting trip through the heart of the Sacred Headwaters in northwestern British Columbia. The film provides an educational, yet sobering look at the effects of mining on these lands and waterways, while also showcasing the immense natural beauty that surrounds it. I like a film that simultaneously entertains and educates, and Chasing Wild does just that.

Chronic Wetness

Joe Cruz: Chronic Wetness is from a trip Eric Parsons and Dylan Kentsch took in 2008 along the Alaska coast. The details aren’t as breathtaking nowadays as they were at the time: summer fat bikes, pack rafts, beach riding, and bushwhacking for hours through brush. Back then, though, they were pretty exciting, and the movie captures in a visceral, dynamic way a style of riding that mostly we had only read about in Roman Dial’s even more prescient hellbiking expeditions . At the time there were only short clips and stories floating around, and that gave the whole thing an air of mystery. It would be eight years before Eric put the footage together into this version, and the mystery gave way to something even better, namely enduring inspiration. I love that the production is super lo-fi and therefore achieves the rawness of the weather, the bugs, the surf, the terrain. And a bunch of hilarious horrifying stuff happens. They just keep riding, pushing, and paddling. Be sure to look carefully at their rear brake and derailleur situation. Shortly after this adventure, Eric sewed custom bags for me that I’d take on a yearlong trek in South America on my Pugsley, exhilarated by precedent like this.

The Colorado Trail Race

Neil Beltchenko: While I love bikepacking, I also love racing. And since I’m the only racer in this group, I feel like it’s only fitting to share a video that’s near and dear to my heart. Aaron Johnson’s film, The Colorado Trail Race: A Self-Powered Adventure is one of my favorites. It showcases the incredible beauty of the Colorado Trail and also helps viewers understand the immense undertaking it is to toe the line of the Colorado Trail Race. The best part of this video is that Aaron himself captures most of the footage while racing. I’ll just let the next 28 minutes do the talking—they’re well worth it.

The Frozen Road

Virginia Krabill: The Frozen Road tells the story of Ben Page’s month-long bikepacking journey through Canada’s Yukon and Northwest Territories to the Arctic Ocean. Over the course of his solitary travels, Ben faces wholly unfamiliar terrain, sub-freezing temperatures, howling winds, and the threat of hungry wolves. As frightening as those challenges are, the most daunting foe Ben faces is his isolation. The camera is his only companion, and through its lens, we watch as the joyous solitude Ben feels at the onset of this campaign transform into heartbreaking loneliness along the way. Ben’s struggles are beautifully captured in both the cinematography and heartfelt narration of this award-winning film. At a time when we are all facing uncertainties, fear, and, to some extent, loneliness, this story seems to be particularly relevant.

The Road From Karakol

Logan Watts: Back in 2011, alpine climber Kyle Dempster was probably one of the first people to cycle some of Kyrgyzstan’s forgotten Soviet roads. Despite its recent surge in popularity, it was then relatively unknown as a cycling destination. That summer, Kyle took off on a second-hand steel bike with nothing more than a couple of paper maps, a BOB trailer full of climbing gear, and a whole lot of stoke. He spent two months pedaling and climbing across the country, all the while recording his journey on a GoPro. Later, filmmakers Fitz Cahall and Austin Siadak transformed the footage into a 25-minute masterpiece that debuted at the 2013 5Point Film Festival and took home the Best In Fest award.

I first saw The Road From Karakol when it was released to the public later in 2013 and was immediately transfixed. I rewatched it several times over the next couple of years and it was ultimately what inspired our small group to go and cycle through Kyrgyzstan (which I might add was still relatively unknown in the bikepacking world at that point in 2016). That fall, just before our route and stories from that trip were published, I rewatched the film once again after Kyle died during a blizzard while on a big wall climbing mission on Pakistan’s Ogre II. When asked for my favorite bikepacking film for this post, I knew my answer immediately and watched it once more, from start to finish. If there’s a film that deserves the title “best bikepacking film of all time,” it’s this one.

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5 Best Cycling Documentaries You Can Find On Netflix

Dustin Gyger

Updated On: September 6, 2023

Few things keep a devoted cyclist from their daily ride except perhaps inclement weather or maybe a health issue. But for these unfortunate and rare moments, how can a devoted bike rider cater to the never-ending desire to hop on two wheels? If it’s snowing outside or if you’ve suffered an injury, we recommend relaxing back on the couch – or better yet, hopping on your trainer – and checking out these top five cycling documentaries that are currently streaming on Netflix: 

• Stop at Nothing: The Lance Armstrong Story (2014)

Back in 2007, Lance Armstrong was every cyclist’s hero. Yet, as this documentary covers, his quick downfall, years of lying about using drugs, and throwing all of his loved ones under the bus who dared suggest he cheated to win seven Tour de France titles, turns this flick into one of the most tragic documentaries that have currently been released.

2. Personal Gold: An Underdog Story (2015)

Cycling is mainly a solitary sport, but this film is about teamwork. Not only after the cycling world was tarnished by the Lance Armstrong drug scandal, the United State’s women’s track cycling team competed in the 2012 Summer Olympics held in London. Working together, these four women beat the odds to bring home Olympic medals. It’s a truly inspiring tale for those who adore a good underdog bicycle film. 

3. Inspired to Ride (2015)

This fascinating documentary follows the story of a group of bikers as they race in the first ever Trans Am Bike Race. They go head to head with a grueling 4,233 miles along the TransAmerica Trail. The film showcases how each athlete endures their own personal journey. If you love visually stunning movies, this film is for you as it displays the rugged beauty of the American landscape.

4. Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist (2014)

With a pirate-like persona, bald head, and trademark bandana, Marco Pantini was one of Italy’s most colorful professional cycling characters. He captured two grand tour titles in 1998. Yet his sudden death and battle with drug addiction rocked the professional cycling world. This engrossing cycling movie follows the life and death of one of the most beloved athletes of cycling.

5. Bikes vs. Cars (2014)

This smart Swedish documentary follows the folks that are trying to make cycling popular in many cities around the world, as well as the powerful aversions that are working against them. It’s a must-see movie for any serious bike lover and one of the best cycling documentaries.

If these movies have inspired you to look for bicycles for sale , look no further than sixthreezero’s website. We offer an extensive list of beach crusier bikes  at affordable prices.

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ABOUT THE FILM

IN THE DIRT is a documentary film about a group of passionate Native American cyclists who attempt to bring the sport of mountain biking to the Navajo Nation, where no bike shops exist.

In 2018, retired pro cyclist Scott Nydam and his family moved to Gallup, New Mexico to pursue a healthcare job for his wife. Soon after their arrival, Scott began meeting passionate mountain bikers across the 28,000-mile expanse of the Navajo Nation who loved the bike and wanted to bring the sport to their communities. The only problem is no bike shops existed. Through a grassroots native-led effort, this group of dedicated cyclists and their families have overcome countless odds to build a cycling culture that today has become the fastest-growing recreational sport on the Navajo Nation.

HOST A COMMUNITY SCREENING

Organize a community screening in your local area. new events are being added daily., upcoming community screenings, september 29, 2023.

Crested Butte Film Festival, Crested Butte. CO. World Premiere

NOVEMBER 3, 2023

Theatrical Release on the Navajo Nation.

Window Rock Cinema November 3rd-9th,

Black Mesa Twin & Tuba City Twin November 3rd- 16th.

NOVEMBER 5 ,2023

Patagonia Santa Cruz, CA Click here to RSVP

NOVEMBER 15, 2023

University of New Mexico, Gurley Hall 1124 Wednesday Nov. 15, 2023 3:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER 18, 2023

Colorado Springs, Colorado. Click here for Tickets

DECEMBER 9, 2023

Santa Fe New Mexico. Santa Fe Place Mall (inside, next to Boot Barn) 6pm

Gallup, New Mexico. Octavia Fellin Public Library, 6:30pm Elmorro Theater and event center

Call or email for further information: 505-863-1291 [email protected]

JANUARY 6, 2024

Historic Totah Theater, Farmington NM

Event Schedule:

12:00 pm: community mtb ride withfarmington area singletrack (fast) at anasazi th. weather dependent. if trails are saturated, plan b is an in-town bike cruise on our river trails., 5:00 pm: invite-only reception. please inquire for more details., 6:30 pm: totah doors open to public, 7:00 pm: introduction and movie(s) starts.8:00(ish): q&a with movie cast and crew..

CONTACT: Evan Pilling, [email protected] for additional details.

JANUARY 12, 2024

Ratio Beer Works, 2030 S. Cherokee St. Denver Colorado 80223 Get tickets here

JANUARY 25, 2024

Fort Peck Community College James E. Shanely Tribal Library, Poplar, Montana 6:00 PM

JANUARY 30, 2024

Rehoboth High School, 211 Tse Yaaniichii St. Rehoboth , New Mexico 87322 6:30 PM.

FEBRUARY 3, 2024

Portland, OR. Clinton Street Theater 2522 SE Clinton Street 7:00PM Get tickets here

February 10, 2024

Nordegg, Alberta, Canada The Nordegg Off Road Cycling Association

https://www.facebook.com/groups/154233511817896/

FEBRUARY 7-10, 2024

Boulder, Colorado, Dairy Center for the Arts: For tickets visit https://thedairy.org/event/in-the-dirt/2024-02-07/ Screening will include live Q&A with the director and producer. SEATING IS LIMITED. Showtimes: 2/7   7:00 PM ( SOLD OUT ) , 2/8   4:30, 2/9 PM   7:00 PM, 2/20   7:30 PM

FEBRUARY 15-19, 2024

Nevada City, California. Official Selection, Wild & Scenic Film Festival. Screening time TBA

https://wildandscenicfilmfestival.org

FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Fredericton, NB @ Picaroons Round House 912 Union Street. Radical Edge Presents: In The Dirt Documentary Screening. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/radical-edge-presents-in-the-dirt-documentary-screening-tickets-808551337817

FEBRUARY 23, 2024

Sunflower Theatre Cortez, Colorado For tickets visit www.sunflowertheatre.org Hosted by Zuma Bike Ranch

March 1, 2024

Denmark, Netherlands. Trail builder Conference.

MARCH 15, 2024

Scottsdale, AZ. Rage Cycles. Rage Cycles

6411 East Thomas Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251. Screening 7:00 - 8:00 pm.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rage-cycles-presents-in-the-dirt-tickets-809522903797

MARCH 19, 2024

Salt Lake City, UT. Movie Night 2024! Hosted by WomenMTB

6:00 PM- 9:00 PM

Brewvies 677 South 200 West, Salt Lake City, UT, 84101

https://womenmtb.com/events/2024/3/19/movie-night-2024

MARCH 23, 2024

Moab, Utah: Screening and Group Ride . Time: Screening Time: 6:30 PM and Group Ride Noon Locations: High School Auditorium and Group Ride Brands Trail. Cast will be in attendance. https://moabmba.ticketleap.com/in-the-dirt/

MARCH 27, 2024

Tucson, AZ. Film Screening Hosted by BICAS & RAR Tuscon. BICAS, 2001 N 7th Ave. Tucson, AZ. Screeing at 6:30 PM. https://rartucson.ticketspice.com/in-the-dirt-a-race-in-the-sun

MARCH 30, 2024

Flagstaff, AZ. Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival 7:00–10:00 PM | Session 4 | Indigenous Program | Orpheum Theater, https://flagstaffmountainfilms.org

Laramie, WY. @ the Gryphon Theater Laramie BikeNet Youth Cycling Program Hosting. Screening at 5 pm. https://www.laramiebikenet.org

April 3, 2024

Steamboat Springs, CO Bud Werner Memorial Library. 1289 Lincoln Ave. Q&A with the director/producer and other crew members. Screening @ 6:30. Tickets site coming soon.

(970) 879-0240. . https://steamboatlibrary.org/events/inthedirt

After party at The Westerly: 8:30-whenever. https://the-westerly.com

April 4, 2024

Salt Lake City, UT. Fisher Brewery @ 320 W 800 S, 84101. Screening and Q & A at 7:00 pm. Hosted by Patagonia Salt Lake City.

https://inthedirtfilmscreeningandqa.splashthat.com/

April 5, 2024

Fort Collins, Colorado. ACT Human Rights Film Festival Lunch & Learn – IN THE DIRT + conversation. 12:00 pm

Some cast will be in attendance.

https://act2024.eventive.org/schedule

April 12, 2024

Evergreen, Colorado. Evergreen High School 29300 Buffalo Park Rd, 80439.

Games, Silent Auction and Prizes at 6pm Film at 7pm .

For tickets: http://www.evergreenhsmtb.com/film-fest.html

April 14, 2024

Taos, NM. MTB Film Festival. Taos Center for The Arts, TCA. Screening at 5 pm.

Q&A with cast to follow. Hosted by Taos Mountain Bike Assoc.

https://www.taosmtb.org

April 15 - 16, 2024

Radford University, Radford, VA. 4 Screenings and guest lectures by director.

April 16, 2024

Boise, ID. BSU Special Events Center, at 1800 W University Dr, Boise ID 83706, from 6-9 PM. Event is free.

April 18, 2024

Casper, WY. 2024 WYOMING OUTDOOR RECREATION SUMMIT. Screening at 7:30.

Best Western Hotel and Conference Center in Downtown Casper, Wyoming

https://info.uwyo.edu/worth/outdoor-rec-summit.html

April 19, 2024

Jay, VT. Clips & Reels, Stateside Rd at 4:00 PM.

SPECIALIZED PRESENTS: IN THE DIRT FILM SCREENING

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5931560eb3db2bde9f28f5a2/t/660bfae06da6020726f55989/1712061152894/2024+Race+Guide.pdf

April 20, 2024

Jay, VT. Clips & Reels, Stateside Rd, at 9:00 AM.

Eugene, OR. Shift Community Cycles, In The Dirt Documentary Screening

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Shift Community Cycles811 West 6th AvenueEugene, OR, 97402

  https://www.shiftcc.org/events/in-the-dirt-documentary-screening

April 21, 2024

Albuquerque, NM. Sponsor: Albuquerque Mountain Bike Association.

Time: 5:30 PM

Location: Elevate Performance, Health, and Wellness

3901 Singer Blvd., Suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87109 Suggested donation: $10. $5 raffle tickets available for sale at the event.

April 25, 2024

Park City, UT. Park City Film. Screeing at 7 pm. Jim Santy Auditorium, 1255 Park Ave, Park City, UT. Cast to join via Zoom or in person. https://parkcityfilm.org/film/in-the-dirt/  

April 27, 2024

Herriman, UT. 7pm scheduled at Fort Herriman Middle School.

https://www.friendsofherriman.org/event/in-the-dirt/

April 30, 2024

Jackson, WY. FIRE PIZZA, HOSTED BY FRIENDS OF PATHWAYS

Join Friends of Pathways at Hand Fire Pizza and on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 @ 5:30 pm for an exclusive premiere of IN THE DIRT. Movie tickets are $20, which includes an all-you-can-eat PIZZA BUFFET!

May 2, 2024

Grand Junction, CO. 2024 Grand Valley Mountain Bike Film Festival. Avalon Theater. Doors open @ 6 PM, Show @ 7PM. Tickets $15. https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1E00606FC3E14728 . Proceeds benefit trail development.

May 11, 2024

Boise, ID. Hosted by George’s Cycles, Mother Earth Brewery and NAI Select Commercial Real Estate Services. At SpringHouse At The Merc 5892 W Hidden Springs Dr, Boise, ID 83714. 7 PM, Tickets $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Tickets sold at both George's Cycles locations and at Spring House.

May 14, 2024

Durango, CO. Fort Lewis College. TBD.

Breckenridge, CO. The Eclipse Theater. More info to come. 

May 16, 2024

Denver, CO. 679 Sheridan Blvd. Unit B Lakewood, CO, 80214 6:30pm - 8:30pm

With Rodeo Labs & Gratis 7 Productions Hosted by Sacred Place

Tickets: sacredplace.co/events/in-the-dirt

May 25 - 26, 2024

Telluride, CO. Mountain Film. Screenings TBA. Cast and Crew will be present. https://www.mountainfilm.org

June 2, 2024

Frederick, Maryland. New Spire Arts Stage. Hosted by The Monocacy Composite Youth Mountain Bike Team. Reels for Wheels. Film Intro @ 2:15. Doors open at 1:30 pm. https://weinbergcenter.org/shows/reels-for-wheels/

June 15, 2024

Fruita, CO. Rocky Mountain PBS Western Colorado Media Center: 158 S. Park Square, Fruita, CO 81521. Ride The Rockies. More Info to come.

June 18, 2024

Edwards, CO. @ 5:30 PM Happy Hour with a 6:30 PM showing at the Riverwalk Theater. The screening will be free. RSVP https://vvmta.volunteerhub.com/vv2/ .

4 WAYS TO GET INVOVLED

1. be an advocate., tell your friends. our goal is to make sure everyone has a chance to hear this story.  email, post on social and let people know the film is available. use your voice. simply share the link inthedirtfilm.com, 2. host a screening in your community..

Experience the story with a group of friends. We provide you need to watch the movie in your community.

3. Support the Silver Stallion, 501C3 non-profit

Silver Stallion provides free bikes for kids, free bike repairs, youth programing for kids, and race programing for kids on the Navajo Nation and surrounding communities.

4. Visit the Rezduro or volunteer with the Silver Stallion

Learn more about the annual Rezduro event.

Learn more about our non-profit partner.

Silver stallion's mission is to see kids develop agency and flourish within positive relationships, healthy lifestyles, and bicycle skills development. learn more. silver stallion, follow the cast & crew.

Silver Stallion Bicycles and Coffee @silverstallionbicyclecoffee

Scott Nydam @scottnydam

Vincent Salabye @Vsalabye

Franklin Cook @milenko_79

Kaiden Yazzie @kaiden_yazzie_

Dominique Clichee @dominiqueclichee

Terence Yazzie @tyz.ig

Rezduro @rezduro

T.C. Johnstone @tcjohnstone

MT Garcia @dziltah_haseyah

MEET THE CAST PODCAST

The James Family: Episode 002

Terence yazzie & mt: episode 003, frank & lorenzo episode 004.

Scott Nydam: Silver Stallion Founder

Vincent Salabye: Coach

AJ Murphy: Coach

Jotham Ippel: Social Worker

Thea James: Social Worker

Albert Avery: Social Worker

Tanisha Bitsoi: Teacher

Lorenzo Manuelito: Coach

Randy Bitsue: Coach

Terence Yazzie: Trail builder

Frank Cook: Coach

Marvin Callo James: Trail Builder

Nigel James: Rider

Germaine Simonson: Rezduro Founder

MT Garcia: Rider

Director: T.C. Johnstone

Producer: Kristen Johnstone  Line Producer: Caroline Beaton Executive Producer: Rising From Ashes Foundation, Catena Foundation, Pam Tanner Boll

Director of Photography: Tim Grant

Additional Camera: Andrew Robinson, Brendan Young, Jack Zakrajsek, Cam Boll Drone Operator: Jack Zakrajsek, Will Gardner

Sound: Kristen Johnstone, Jack Zakrajsek

Photographer: Ryan Scheer, Shaun Price

FILM PRODUCED BY GRATIS 7 FILMS

23 Binge-worthy Travel Documentaries on Netflix (2024)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 14, 2024

If you enjoy watching travel shows (whether for inspiration or research) you are in for a treat with this selection of the best travel documentaries on Netflix in 202 4

This eclectic list of Netflix travel documentaries and series will take you across every continent to meet the people, cultures, history and geography, natural wonders and wildlife that make up our beautiful planet.

Chosen by travel bloggers this is a selection of the best travel documentaries available on Netflix around the world.

Please bear in mind that not all these shows may be available on Netflix in your location ! If you would like unrestricted access to 15 Netflix libraries around the world (including Germany/USA/UK) we recommend Surfshark VPN. You only need 1 subscription to cover every gadget in your house. Click here for more information about Surfshark

Taco Chronicles

With surfshark vpn you can, dark tourist, down to earth, grand tours of the scottish islands, expedition happiness.

• Chef's Table

Somebody Feed Phil

Extreme engagement.

• Joanna Lumley's India

Chasing Coral

Magical andes, cuba and the cameraman, jack whitehall travels with my father, restaurants on the edge, tales by light, christiane amanpour: sex & love around the world, the serpent, the dawn wall, my octopus teacher, anthony bourdain: parts unknown, street food series (latin america and asia), more tv shows & movies from countries around the world, 23 best travel documentaries on netflix.

If you didn’t love the idea of eating tacos in Mexico City already, Taco Chronicles will make sure you do! In fact, you’ll discover that there’s even more to authentic Mexican tacos than you ever knew about.

In Taco Chronicles, you’ll go on a taco journey to Mexico City and beyond, to discover the unique types of tacos eaten in Mexico’s various regions and states. The show does start off in Mexico City, with the king of Mexican tacos — the taco al pastor.

From Mexico City, enjoy a virtual Mexican culinary food tour to its neighbouring state of Hidalgo, home of barbacoa (BBQ) tacos. Beyond Central Mexico, this food and travel documentary takes you all over Mexico.

In subsequent episodes of this two-season show, you’ll discover cochinita pibil (slow-roasted suckling pig) tacos in the Yucatan Peninsula, fried fish tacos in Baja California state on the west coast, cabrito (goat) tacos in Northern Mexico, and more.

Places/countries featured – Mexico

Chosen by Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo

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Over recent years, the public’s fascination with dark tourism destinations has boomed. Sites such as Chernobyl and Auschwitz draw in thousands of tourists every year. With so many of the population sharing a fascination for dark history, it is no wonder that so many have tuned into Netflix’s ‘Dark Tourist. 

The show follows journalist David Farrier as he travels around hoping to experience the most macabre destinations that the world has to offer. Farrier’s quest to unearth the morbid takes him to several high profile dark tourism destinations, including the site of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, on a JFK assassination tour and he even witnesses an exorcism in Mexico City.  

Although Farrier sometimes comes across as a mediocre Louis Theroux, this thought-provoking travel show succeeds in its aim and transports you into the unknown. The result is an interesting series that explores the darker side of life (and death).

Chosen by Sheree   of Winging the World

In the Netflix series Down To Earth , actor Zac Efron and wellness author Darin Olien travel across the globe learning about the wellness and sustainability efforts being made in numerous destinations.

Each of the eight episodes focuses on a different location and aspect of sustainability or personal wellness.

In the first episode, you’ll learn all about harnessing the earth’s energy in Iceland. From there, travel to Paris to see their efforts to reduce bottled water impacts, learn about sustainability in Costa Rica, and nutrition in Sardinia.

Also included in the series are food education in Lima, post-hurricane sustainability in Puerto Rico, London pollution reduction efforts, and Iquitos wellness in the Peruvian Amazon.

In one of the most intriguing segments, they learn about tap water differences from a water sommelier. The series lends a glimpse into some beautiful destinations and what locals are doing to keep them beautiful for decades to come.

Chosen by Samantha of PAonPause.com

More to watch!

• Best Scandinavian and Nordic Noir Netflix series to watch in 2021 and beyond
• Best Danish TV series to watch on Netflix
• Best Italian TV series on Netflix
• Best German TV series on Netflix
• Best Australian TV shows to watch before you visit Oz
• 16 binge worthy Turkish series on Netflix

Historian and film-maker Paul Murton brings you on a fascinating journey to many Scottish islands over four seasons. He meets with locals; finds hidden gems; and explores the rich, unique, and sometimes tragic history of each of the islands. 

You may be surprised to find yourself binge-watching this relaxing travel documentary series. You will get caught up in Murton’s contagious curiosity about its people and his great admiration for its beauty. Every episode is filled with stunning scenery. The high production quality and engaging soundtrack heighten the enjoyment of the show. Fans can follow this up with his three other Scottish travel series.  

Queue up, Grand Tours of the Scottish Islands to enjoy some dreamy armchair travel or to gain a deeper understanding of the islands as you plan your trip to Scotland .  

Places featured: Isle of Skye , Islands of Loch Lomond, Hebridean Islands, Orkney Islands, and many more

Contributed by Erica at Trip Scholars

Expedition Happiness is a home movie/travelogue that follows the story of a German couple as they give up their life in Germany to do an epic road trip in the Americas with their dog Rudi.

The couple, whose names are Selima and Felix, purchased a yellow school bus in Florida for 9500 USD. After working on it for three months, they transformed it into their “Loft on Wheel”, a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped adventure bus. 

The itinerary was to start in Alaska near Denali National Park , drive all the way down to Central America, cross over to South America, and finish in Argentina.

On their adventure, they documented all the incredible landscapes they saw, the people they met, and more.

Whether they were able to finish their epic adventure or not, you will have to find out on Netflix! 

Chosen by Sean of Living out Lau

Chef’s Table

Even if you’re not a foodie but love to travel, be sure to watch Chef’s Table on Netflix. This documentary series features renowned Chefs from around the world who are creating inspired culinary experiences.

Now in its 6th season with 30 episodes, the series doesn’t just showcase a chef’s creations, but takes you on a journey through each of their personal stories that has led to their creativity.

World renowned chefs like Italy’s Massimo Bottura will inspire you with how he came from humble beginnings to being on the world culinary stage. But one chef in particular has inspired us to travel for her food — Chef Ana Rôs, owner of  Hiša Franko restaurant  in Kobarid, Slovenia. 

After initially pursuing a career track in business, she spent years honing her craft and experimenting with the local foods of her native Slovenia. Today, she is now one of the top chefs in the world, Hiša Franko is one of the 50 Best Restaurants in the World and newly Michelin-rated — and our dinner there on my birthday might possibly be the best meal of my life.

Watch the series and decide where your next culinary adventure will be.

Chosen by Lori of travlinmad.com

In “Somebody Feel Phil”, the creator of “Everybody Loves Raymond,” Phil Rosenthal, travels the world to indulge in the scrumptious local cuisine and to learn more about the culture of these destinations.

There are currently four seasons on Netflix and each episode features a different city around the world. This documentary does a great job of portraying local customs and traditions and viewers will feel like they’re actually in that city with the locals.

Phil has a childlike wonder to him when he’s learning about the different cultures and he answers basically any potential questions the viewers could have about the destination. One of the best parts about the documentary is watching Phil turn the strangers he meets into his family. 

Places featured – Bangkok, Saigon, Tel Aviv, Lisbon, New Orleans, Mexico City, Venice , Dublin, Buenos Aires, Copenhagen, Cape Town, New York City, Marrakesh, Chicago, London, Seoul, Montreal, Rio De Janeiro, San Francisco, Singapore, the Mississippi Delta, and Hawaii. 

Chosen by Disha of Disha Discovers

While most people get engaged and then begin planning their perfect wedding, Tim and PJ, stars of the Netflix show Extreme Engagement, do anything but that. Instead, Tim and PJ get engaged and then set out on a worldwide exploration of marital traditions around the world. 

The couple journeys to places such as Mongolia, Brazil, China, Nigeria, and Papua New Guinea facing challenging experiences along the way that has them questioning their relationship and each other. 

You get to see a glimpse inside the cross-cultural challenges associated with a new romance along with an interesting insight into how other cultures celebrate love and marriage. 

Chosen by Michelle Snell from That Texas Couple

International travellers Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach cross the world and push their limits on an expedition to find genuine, unforgettable experiences.

DEPARTURES is an international award-winning and inspiring television travel series that will take you on the journey of a lifetime and beyond. From epic landscapes to unforgettable culture, learn what it takes to make it all happen through personal successes, crushing disappointments and memorable new friendships that could only be made by travelling abroad.

With two episodes for every continent, DEPARTURES will arm and reassure your wanderlust with hours of riveting programming that captures the beauty, drama, wonder and humor of taking a leap abroad.

DEPARTURES covers every aspect of world travel, showing you exactly what to expect at destinations around the globe. From beaches in Bali and cruising in the South Pacific Islands, to trekking on Mt Kilimanjaro and sailing up icebergs off Greenland, DEPARTURES takes you straight into a location’s unique atmosphere… giving viewers insight into a whole new way of life.

Places featured – Nearly 30 countries around the world including Japan, New Zealand and Russia

Chosen by Casandra of Karpiak Caravan Adventure Family Travel

Joanna Lumley’s India

Joanna Lumley is a British actress probably most well-known for her role as the outrageous Patsy of Absolutely Fabulous. What is perhaps less known about her is that she was born in Kashmir, India, in 1946, and the descendent of British colonists in India going back to 1777.

Originally aired in 2017 with three episodes, Joanna Lumley’s India takes viewers on a personal trip across the country where she explores modern India and finds connections to members of her own family and the experience of being and speaking English in India .

Lumley has also hosted travel shows on Japan, the Silk Road, the Caribbean, and the Trans-Siberia express train.

Places featured:  Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Gujarat, Mumbai, Ranthambhore National Park, Delhi, and Srinagar, Kashmir.

Chosen by Mariellen of Breathedreamgo

Chasing Coral is a fascinating documentary about the disappearance of coral around the world. In this chasing coral, a team of divers, researchers and photographers set out on an ocean adventure to document the bleaching of Coral in warming seas. This phenomenon is when corals lose their beautiful and vibrant colors to become white, dying shortly after. 

The point of this documentary is to show that the coral’s death is the result of climate change and the rise in temperatures that are absorbed by the oceans. 

The documentary takes us to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world such as the Florida Keys, Hawaii and the Bahamas. More than that, this documentary also shows the important damage climate change has done to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. 

I definitely recommend this documentary to anyone who wants to really understand the impact of human activity on the ocean’s ecosystem. 

Chosen by Camille from Everything Yoga Retreat

Magical Andes is one of the best travel documentaries on Netflix if you are looking to learn about the natural gems of South America. When searching amongst the 100’s of other documentaries you’ll find this particular docuseries created by Luis Ara and Alexandra Hardorf concentrates solely on the magical landscape of the Andes mountain range. 

This docuseries not only shows you all about the longest continental mountain range in the world, but talks about the wildlife, lakes, and forests, deserts, volcanoes, and other Mother Earth creations that exist in that region. 

Magical Andes focuses on truly stunning imagery and gives you a look into some of the  best places to visit in South America  that you simply wouldn’t see passing through in a car.

Places featured  – In season one, the Netflix documentary features spectacular views from Argentina and Chile. Then from the Aconcagua desert in Bolivia over to some of the more ancient cultures in Peru. The lush mountain of Colombia and Ecuador are also featured.

Chosen by Daniel of LayerCulture.com

If you’ve ever thought of visiting Cuba there are many Cuban movies and documentaries to help you to research your trip, but none are as epic as this one. 

Many people believe that Cuba is a country frozen in time, but this Netflix documentary features Jon Alpert’s travels to Cuba over a span of nearly five decades. 

And while the relationships between the United States and Cuba has been fragmented at times, he visited each time as an American journalist. It starts in 1970s, just over a decade since the Cuban revolution when the country was thriving. 

Instead of giving his perspective on Cuba, he interviews three families who share their own stories of every day life. He continues to visit Cuba to find these families to update their stories. Over the decades the political situation and relationship with the United States changes quite dramatically.

And while he also interviews Fidel Castro, most of the film is really about everyday Cubans and their highs and lows.

Chosen by Ayngelina of Baconismagic.ca

Jack Whitehall is a British comedian who attended private school and has a somewhat disjointed relationship with his father Michael because of this. Jack also never got to take a gap year before going to university so season one of Travels with my Father is all about Jack finally embarking on a traditional ‘gap year’ trip to Southeast Asia. The twist is he takes his father with him so they can strengthen their bond.

The series takes place in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam and highlights some of the gap year activities that can be done including full moon parties on the beach and visiting Angkor Wat. By the end of their travels, they reflect on what they have learned about each other and themselves.

The show continues in a similar fashion in the subsequent seasons where Michael takes Jack on a culture and history tour around Europe, Jack shows Michael everything the US has to offer, and both his mother and father join him for a road trip in Australia.

Chosen by Steph from Book It Let’s Go!

If you love travel, design and food, Restaurants on the Edge needs to be on your Netflix list. In each episode, the show highlights a restaurant in a stunning location. 

The restaurants get a makeover from a design expert and the menu often gets an upgrade from the show’s chef, the goal is to take struggling restaurants and make them sustainable for the business owners. 

There are currently two seasons of Restaurants on the Edge on Netflix, with locations throughout the world. 

In season one, you’ll be treated to beautiful ocean views in Malta, as well as stunning architecture. The views continue with a cliff side restaurant in Costa Rica. 

Season two will take you around the world again, with restaurants in Finland, St. Croix and Arizona. 

Not only is it fun to see the upgrades these restaurants go through, but it’s also inspiring to see the impact the changes have on each person’s life making this show a must-watch. 

Chosen by Alenis of seasaltandfog.com  

If you are a fan of Italy, Italian art and History, then watch the gorgeous and surprisingly brutal history of the famous Medici’s of Florence.

The Netflix show is so well done with gorgeous cinematography, beautiful costumes and stage settings. The show includes all the surrounding countryside and historic sites that document the Medici Family and their major influence on Florence, Venice, and even Rome (two popes were related to the Medici family).

It also showcases early Catholic power and greed. The Pope had absolute power and a religious mission that seemed corrupt whichever person was Pope and ruler. 

The Medici focus really hits the major sites of the city and also the start of the Renaissance period in Italy. The crowning of the main dome in the cathedral was a major achievement during this time frame and it was really fascinating to see how this was depicted and shown in development and the struggles of the Medici family to get this undertaking done.

Also, it was interesting to see how easy it was during that time frame to create wealth and also lose it depending on your affiliations and business relationships with the pope and other influential rulers of that time.

Watch the Medici’s on Netflix and if you visit Florence, you’ll gain a better understanding of the Medici fame and fortune in the area.

Chosen by Noel of Oahu Travel Now

Below Deck is a series of reality TV shows. Each show is set on a luxury yacht which is rented out by wealthy charter guests, but the real action is with the young yacht crew, or yachties, who serve them, the characterful captains who lead them and the stunning locations. The original Below Deck was so successful that it rapidly gained two spin offs, Below Deck Mediterranean and Below Deck Sailing Yacht.

The original Below Deck saw the crew sail around Sint Maarten in the Caribbean, followed by seasons in the British Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, the US Virgin Islands, Tahiti, Thailand and Antigua.

Below Deck Mediterranean’s locations have included Mykonos in the Greek Islands, Split and Cavtat in Croatia, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, the Cote d’Azur in the south of France and Mallorca in Spain’s Balearic Islands. Below Deck, Sailing Yacht has only had one series, set in Corfu.

Contributed by Helen of HelenOnHerHolidays.com

The documentary series “Tales by Light” follows renowned professional filmmakers and photographers as they visit worldwide destinations and capture fascinating content which highlights different features of the natural world. 

Every episode focuses on a different subject such as wildlife, the oceans, landscapes, adventure activities, or cultural practices and traditions. The distinct approaches of the featured photographers really help to bring the stories to life and this program presents many less well-known countries and regions in a compelling way using panoramic landscapes and stunning visuals. 

The first season explores multiple destinations per episode, with visits to Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Alaska and Colorado in the United States, Vanuatu, the Himalayas, Antarctica, Ethiopia and Uganda.

The second season covers Kenya, Norway, Brazil, the Bahamas, India and Namibia, and the third season highlights Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Australia.

This series presents a journey across the globe and is sure to inspire travellers who are looking for their next adventure.

Contributed by Claire from  Claire Pins Travel  

In this cultural travel show, CNN journalist Christiane Amanpour (who in the past has covered major stories from countries like  Iran , Rwanda, and Pakistan) travels to six different cities around the world to explore women’s love lives across multiple cultures. She talks to experts in the field as well as everyday people — revealing facts and details that give a very insightful glimpse into the culture and values of women around the world. 

Christiane is a natural at asking just the right questions and at shining a spotlight on the stories of the women in each city.

While this show focuses heavily on love and sex, viewers will get to learn a whole lot about the overall mentality and life approach of each country — making this a perfect travel show that fosters deeper cultural appreciation.

Places featured – Tokyo (Japan), Delhi (India), Beirut (Lebanon), Berlin (Germany), Accra (Ghana), Shanghai (China)

Chosen by Jiayi of The Diary of A Nomad

Released at the beginning of 2021, The Serpent is not a travel show in and of itself, but it will inevitably allure travelers into visiting the many places explored by the main characters.

Aired on Netflix, the series tells the real story of Charles Sobhraj, a French serial killer of Indian and Vietnamese origins who in the mid-1970s drugged, robbed and killed a large number of backpackers travelling between Thailand, India and Nepal. 

Sobhraj and his Quebecoise girlfriend Marie-Andrée Leclerc were finally identified as the authors of the crimes thanks to the work of Dutch diplomat Herman Knippenberg, who, albeit the many reservations of the Dutch ambassador to Thailand, set to investigate the disappearance of a Dutch couple and through a series of lead eventually managed to uncover the culprits.

Places featured: Over the course of 8 episodes you will be taken to Bangkok, the coast of Thailand, the peaks of Nepal, the streets of several Indian cities and even to Paris .

Chosen by Claudia Tavani of My Adventures Across The World

When Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson free climbed the Great Wall of the El Capitan rock face in the Yosemite National Park in 2018, the news spread like wildfire.

Dawn Wall is a US documentary about this story of perseverance and adventure.

Cameras follow these legendary free climbers as they undertake this nearly impossible task. It took Cadwell 7 years to reach the goal and we are given a detailed look into the events that led to this decision and the struggles that were involved throughout the journey.

There’s one constant theme that runs throughout the story and that is the strength of the human spirit.

This captivating documentary with great visuals should not be missed. The documentary is in English, but subtitles are available in different languages that include Spanish, French, and Chinese. 

Places featured : Yosemite National Park

Chosen by Rai from A Rai of Light

My Octopus Teacher is an award-winning and very heart-touching documentary on Netflix that covers how a filmmaker spent a year trying to capture a wild octopus on camera and also form a friendship with it. 

For about a year, Craig Foster films a wild octopus he came across while trying out free-diving through an underwater kelp forest in South Africa.

Over the period, Craig and the octopus develop a bond with the octopus almost showing Craig around and not being uninhibited by his presence as he follows it.

Craig watches as it protects itself, loses an arm to an attack and then regrows it too. At the end of the documentary, the octopus naturally passes away after mating and trying to protect its eggs. 

Filmed entirely near Cape Peninsula in South Africa, this beautiful documentary is not to be missed as it covers an offbeat relationship between man and nature. 

Places featured – A kelp forest off False Bay near Simon’s Town in South Africa

Chosen by Lavinia of Continent Hop

For the foodies of the world, who travel the world, and are strident realists about the world, “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” is an absolute must-watch.

Rugged, painfully honest, internationally renowned chef Anthony Bourdain travelled the globe in search of authentic food, people and life experiences. With no time for nonsense and all the time in the world for simple food done to perfection, he takes the viewer to eating establishments from tiny street food stalls to the finest of fine dining.

In his search for amazing food in amazing places, he guides you from the brutality of the Bornean jungle to the madness of Seoul’s foodie nightlife and the pure joy of a perfectly cooked steak in an Argentinian steakhouse accompanied by a glass of locally bottled Malbec. 

Parts Unknown leaves you an appetite for dinner and a bigger one for travel. Wanderlust is baked into every episode.

Chosen by Rosie of the Flying Fluskeys

The Street Food series is one for foodie lovers around the world to enjoy! Each episode follows the story of a local chef and how they started their now-famous street food shops.

From family restaurants to cultural fusions, you learn about a destination through food from the people who make it possible.

Volume one takes place in various Asian destinations, such as Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, Delhi (India), Seoul (South Korea), and others.

The second volume takes place in Latin America, highlighting food in Salvador (Brazil), Bogota (Colombia), Lima (Peru), Oaxaca (Mexico), and more.

It is a delicious docuseries that will keep you salivating and also inspire you to understand how food and travel are one. Street Food will also encourage you to get out of your comfort zone if you normally avoid street food!

It is the ideal blend of travel and food for everyone to indulge in from home.

Chosen by Sojourner of Sojournies.com

📺 If you are looking for more travel inspiration on Netflix check out these posts:

• 39 Very Best Travel Movies to Inspire Your Wanderlust
• Best Spanish Series on Netflix (Binge-worthy TV for 2021)
• 10 best movies about South Africa to watch before you visit
• Best Netflix series set in Denmark
• 15 best Scandinavian & Nordic Noir Netflix series you can’t miss
• Best French series on Netflix

📖 If you enjoy reading about a country before you visit check out these posts

• A Complete Guide to the Best Books from Around the World
• Best books about Croatia (or set in Croatia)