I have always loved traveling, it has been a passion of mine.” These are the words of backpacker Annabelle Golden, known online as @grainonthego, who is currently on an epic cycling journey from Norway all the way to Cape Town, South Africa.
## Who Is Annabelle Golden?
Annabelle is an artist and full-time traveler who documents her adventures with her boyfriend, Alex. Together, they’ve turned their love for exploration into a global cycling tour that’s capturing attention on social media. Her story isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about blending creativity, resilience, and a desire for slow, immersive travel.
## The Norway to Cape Town Cycle Tour
Annabelle and Alex began their world cycle tour in 2024. A huge milestone came in January 2025 when they pedaled from Spain into Africa. Since then, they’ve cycled through Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. Right now, they’re navigating the diverse landscapes of the Congo, with Cape Town as their ultimate goal. This isn’t a rushed trip—it’s about experiencing each country deeply, one pedal at a time.
## How Bikepacking Began
Annabelle’s love for bike travel started in 2018 after she finished her studies in Amsterdam. Inspired by Alex, they embarked on their first bike tour together: a two-week winter adventure through Austria along parts of the EuroVelo 6 route. “It was such a cool way to travel and exposed me to different styles of travel,” she says. That trip sparked her passion for bikepacking—traveling light, moving slowly, and connecting with places in a unique way.
## Art on the Road: Making a Living While Traveling
Beyond cycling, Annabelle is a digital artist who funds her journey through her craft. A turning point came in 2021 during a trip to Iceland, where she and Alex tried van life. “It was the first time I made money traveling and I realized I could make a living from it,” she explains. Now, she works remotely from cafes, breweries, and scenic spots, creating art and sharing
