One of the things I enjoy most about cycling is the pace.

Unlike travelling by car, bicycle touring allows you to experience the world around you. You feel the wind on your face, smell the changing scents of the countryside, and hear the sounds of nature that are often missed when travelling at higher speeds.

This week I filmed part of my ride through the countryside. When I played the video back, I realized it had been recorded in fast motion. Watching it felt more like driving a car than cycling a bicycle! While it doesn’t fully capture the experience of being there, it does provide a quick glimpse of the scenery I enjoyed along the route.

Video: Cycling through the countryside

Later, I stopped to take in the surroundings and record the sounds of nature. As I stood quietly, I heard deer moving through the bush and birds singing from the trees.

I also noticed signs posted by a local landowner asking people to stay off the property. While some may see these signs as restrictive, they also help protect wildlife habitat by reducing disturbance. Sometimes the best thing we can do for nature is simply give it the space to thrive.

Moments like these are one of the reasons I love cycling adventures. Travelling at a slower pace allows you to notice details that would otherwise pass by unnoticed and reminds you that nature is constantly at work around us.

Video: Sounds of the bush and wildlife

Have you ever noticed how much more you see and hear when you slow down and travel by bicycle? Leave a comment below. Love to hear from you.