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Adventure Cycling Association

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Find Your Grand Adventure with a 2024 Guided Tour 

2024 guided tours are filling up. find your adventure today.

With an Adventure Cycling Guided Tour, you can count on five things: 

• Curated experiences traversing the histories, cultures, and landscapes of the U.S. 
• A tour type to fit your travel style 
• Small groups of 10-15 participants, except for our larger Fully Supported Events 
• A fully planned trip, without the worry of routing, navigation, or reservations, from an experienced organization 
• Warm fuzzies knowing your Guided Tour purchase supports a nonprofit and its mission, not a for-profit company 

We’re excited to hit the road with you! 

Our goal is to facilitate a life-changing journey with a Guided Tour that fits your needs. Our Guided Tours provide a range of experiences: long weekend to epic, pavement to dirt, historically focused to earning the scenic vistas. They also come in a variety of lengths and difficulties as well as different levels of support and price points. We offer everything from self-sufficient nights under the stars to fully catered experiences and inn-to-inn options.  

Every tour comes with knowledgeable Tour Leaders, routing, navigation, and reservations. All you have to do is participate! Some tours provide opportunities to get to know your fellow riders better, such as group-made meals and grocery shopping, while other types of tours are less interactive. Participation in these small group activities on some tour types is all part of the Adventure Cycling experience.

“Without a doubt, the best part of the tour was the friendships we made. We came from all levels of experience. Everyone was supportive. Every single day, no matter what the difficulty of the day, we laughed.” – Sam, Tour Participant

Types of Tours

We have a variety of tour formats that suit different styles of touring. All come in different lengths and levels of difficulty, which we call Adventure Levels, ranging from Level 1 to Level 5. Generally, our tours have between 10 and 15 participants, with the exception being our larger Fully Supported Events.

Self-Contained This type of touring is all pedal power and no vehicular support. All shared gear is carried by the group, and cooking responsibilities rotate among its members. A majority of nights are spent outdoors under the stars. An indoor stay or restaurant may be sprinkled in just when you need it the most.

Inn-to-Inn This is the type of tour for those of us who prefer the comforts of a cozy bed. As the name suggests, each night is spent indoors. Breakfasts and dinners are enjoyed in restaurants. Although there is no vehicle support, you’ll only need to carry the minimal gear of your clothes, toiletries, basic repair items, water, and a bag lunch for the day.

Van-Supported If you prefer touring without the load of a full set of panniers, but you still love camping, we have a van and trailer to haul your gear. Just worry about pedaling. Carry nothing more than water/lunch/snacks and maybe some rain gear if the weather’s dodgy. You’ll still have fun with your partner rotating on camp cooking duty. But not to worry, on certain tours, there are occasional restaurant meals and indoor stays.

Fully Supported and Family Adventure  Events The top level of support! Meals are catered. Luggage is hauled. Starry night camping for those into tents and motel options for those who aren’t. Water and snack stops along the route. Just enjoy the riding, the scenery, and the people to your front and back. These tours are larger in size (20–50 participants) and staffed by several tour leaders all looking out for you.

Education Not sure you’re ready to take the leap into full-on independent touring? Our Intro to Road and Intro to Gravel Touring & Bikepacking courses help you break down the basics. There’s some in-person classroom work before setting out as a group on a short self contained tour. We also offer Leadership Training Courses for those experienced in bike touring but want to start leading their own groups.

“This was my first organized multiday trip. I was traveling solo and I had a wonderful time. I could set my own pace and never felt rushed. The food was fantastic and there was lots of it! I can’t say enough good things about the leaders. I will definitely sign up for another one.” – Kelly, Tour Participant

Doing Good with Every Pedal Stroke 

Adventure Cycling is a nonprofit. Every Guided Tour purchase supports our mission of inspiring, empowering, and connecting people to travel by bicycle. 

For nearly 50 years, we’ve been researching and mapping one of the largest bicycle route systems in the world. And we’re not done yet. Our programs focus on making bicycle travel more accessible to more people through mapping short and long routes, hosting educational resources and events, and creating an open, supportive community for all riders.

All of our tours are listed below. If you have any questions, give us a call or reach out through our online chat. We’re here for you — because Your Adventure Awaits! 

Intro to Road Touring – Florida

Natchez trace, texas hill country, outer banks, transam express westward, intro to road touring – virginia, black hills, acadia and mt. desert island, great lakes, cycle washington, ohio to erie trail, new england mountains and coast, denali adventure, cycle montana – big sky country, maine coast and lighthouses, great divide canada, glacier-waterton, selkirk splendor, idaho trails relaxed, great divide montana, cycle the divide – montana, intro to road touring – oregon, epic great divide, grand canyon of pennsylvania, crater lake, great divide wind river, intro to gravel touring & bikepacking – montana, upstate new york adirondacks, great divide colorado alpine, vermont’s lake champlain & green mountains, black hills – south dakota, idaho trails, allegheny mountains gravel loop, pacific coast north, great lakes relaxed, washington’s san juan islands, lake champlain, cape cod & the islands, pacific coast, c&o canal/gap, pacific coast central, southern tier, testimonials.

“ I’ve done a number of tours with Adventure Cycling and loved them all, but this was the best group I’ve been with. The people on this trip were just plain fun. I loved everywhere we got to see.”  — Jeff, Tour Participant “ I love the little towns, particularly Patagonia. Tombstone was interesting but did not get to see much of it. Bisbee is a fascinating and historic community. The roads were generally fine and not too busy. The terrain was sufficiently challenging, but not intimidating for this early season rider who was not in top shape.”  — Stephanie, Tour Participant

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Bike Tours & Guided Cycling Trips

Since 1979, bike tours have been the core of who we are, and we’ve only gotten better with time. From the Rocky Mountains to the Tuscan countryside to Vietnam's Mekong River , our expert Trip Leaders guide you on the most scenic biking routes—far from the crowds and immersed in the region you’ve come to discover. Learn more about what you can expect when joining us on a Bike Tour. Check out our fleet of custom-built titanium bikes as well as our carbon options from Cannondale and Canyon.

A Taste of Camino de Santiago Bike Tour

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Aspen's Glacial Valleys Bike Tour - 4-Day Getaway

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Austria & Germany Bike Tour

Austrian Alps & Italy's Dolomites Bike Tour

Bali Multi-Adventure Tour

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Basque Country Multi-Adventure Tour

Belize & Guatemala Multi-Adventure Tour

Bend Oregon Multi-Adventure Tour

Crater Lake, Smith Rock & the Deschutes River

Berlin to Prague Bike Tour

Berlin to Prague Easygoing E-bike Tour

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Celebrating 40 Years!

Guided, small group bike tours since 1984.

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Norway Intermediate Bike Tour

Bryce & Zion National Parks Bike Tour

Why bicycle adventures.

We invite you to join our family. After 40 years of guiding extraordinary bicycle vacations, we have learned that bigger is not better. How do we know that? Easy… Our guests and guides tell us so. It’s the little things that small tours do that just aren’t possible with large group tours. Whether it’s getting to know everyone through shared conversation at dinner, choosing your dinner off the menu, staying in boutique accommodations or having your favorite post-ride refreshment waiting for you at the end of the day. But the best part is having guides that actually get to know you so that each trip feels like your own personalized vacation.

Enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides, healthy lunches, fine dining, copious brew pubs, good wine lists, spectacular scenery and nearly ubiquitous van support!

A great way to experience a unique part of our world by leaving much of the planning and execution to a group of knowledgable, experienced, and helpful guides.

Great trip! Beautiful scenery, guides are very supportive and accommodating to the various levels of riders. Everyone is encouraged to ride to their comfort level.

It was a great introductory cycling trip for a family of 5 with ages ranging from 7 to 40+. All the kids made friends and loved being together.

It is an amazing way to explore a new place, the routes take to you to best spots, on the best roads, the guides are always there to make sure you are doing OK.

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Adventuring Together: The Top 5 Bike Tours for Riders and Non-Riders Alike

Embarking on a cycling tour can be thrilling, but what if your partner isn’t as keen on riding as you are? Fear not! Bicycle...

• Cycling in USA
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Your cycling holiday or bike tour in America

USA Bike Tours offers over 140 most spectacular cycling tours and cycling holidays in all parts of the United States of America and Canada, the whole year through. Long or short, guided or self-guided, basic or deluxe – you will always find the tour that fits you best! We selected the best and most beautiful tours. To guarantee high quality equipment, most scenic routes, excellent accommodation and dedicated support.

Experience The USA the best way – from the seat of a bicycle

Giftcard Are you looking for an original gift for a bicycle enthusiast? Surprise someone with a ‘USA Bike Tours Gift Certificate’ and let them choose any tour on our website. It is the perfect way to give someone an experience of a lifetime. You can purchase the certificate by sending an e-mail to: [email protected] .

Our Favorites

Stephen B. Mount Rushmore and Badlands Tour “USA Bike Tours provide a highly professional and attentive service. Things don’t always go to plan, but they sure know how to respond when needs arise.”

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Explore some of the world’s highest tides of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia , ride through a 36 km car-free route through the streets of 7 Montréal borough in The Tour de l’Île de Montréalto, experience quintessential French influence in Quebec City , soak in the  the rural charm of wine country in Niagara , or roll through the countryside between Ottawa and Montréal .

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The Best Bike Trips in the U.S. You Can Book Right Now

We found the safest bike tours along America’s most spectacular routes so you can check another ride off your bucket list!

Currently Covid cases are at an all-time high in the U.S. Before you book any trip, check for travel restrictions and mandates in states and counties you’ll pass through and understand they may still be in place when it’s time for your trip. If so, respect these restrictions and their communities by rescheduling for a safer time.

Riding your bike can be a fantastic escape from unprecedented stress—as many of us learned (or relearned) in 2020. And riding it someplace beyond your locals adds even more magic. But during a pandemic, everything from traveling to get someplace new to being part of a group is complicated. We debated skipping our annual travel awards, but ultimately decided to focus on stateside trips (potentially eliminating or reducing air travel) run by companies instituting rigorous safety protocols.

Our editors vetted hundreds of tour outfitters and analyzed their itineraries for things like average tour size, traveler reviews, value, and quality of the rental fleet. Each company we chose to feature established practices to combat COVID (everything from providing masks to testing staff regularly to sanitizing equipment), and many have eased their cancellation policies, decreased group sizes, and bolstered their self-guided and private trip options. Of course, it’s still up to you to travel responsibly: Ride within your limits to avoid taxing local health systems, check for travel restrictions in states and counties you’ll pass through, and if you’re sick, stay home. And if your personal situation, local conditions, or sense of caution keep you at home this year, we hope you use this list to shop for the trip you’ll do during a better time.

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Whether you want to pedal through Montana’s Big Sky Country, tackle Malibu’s toughest climbs, meander Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast, or travel the Underground Railroad route by bike, these are the 26 most spectacular cycling getaways in the U.S. this year.

BEST FOR FOODIES

Mendocino gravel, the outfitter, the cyclist’s menu.

Created by husband and wife Zander and Heidi Ault (a farm-direct chef and a former pro mountain bike racer), this six-day, five-night tour seamlessly marries stellar gravel riding with phenomenal eats. Routes explore a playful 10-mile stretch of coastline and tranquil roads and trails through more than 50,000 acres of Redwood forest (daily mileage runs 30 to 70). Breakfast spreads, picnic lunches, and sumptuous evening meals all lean into local providers (fresh-caught seafood, community-grown greens, and craft brews) and group bonding (tours are capped at eight travelers; 10 for private) is the goal. Days wind down with happy hours overlooking the coast ahead of comfortable overnights at the MacCallum House Inn.

6 days | 250–300 miles | $3,650 | Intermediate/Advanced

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Berkshires small group bike tours | farm to fork fitness adventures.

Spend an easy morning riding between three on-farm tasting experiences in the world-renowned foodie destination before enjoying a farm-to-table lunch.

1 day | 40–60 miles | $140 | All Levels

BEST GRAVEL

Montana gravel tour, the cycling house.

Head into northwestern Montana’s backcountry on this doubletrack and dirt road adventure. This six-day trip is fully supported, features a mix of challenging climbs and zippy descents, and offers customizable routes (daily mileage range: 20 to 55) to please less-experienced gravel riders and veterans—like the climb up to the Morrell Mountain Lookout at 7,700 feet and sections of the legendary Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. A home base at the Double Arrow Lodge in Seeley Lake means you only unpack once, and locally sourced meals prepared by Cycling House chefs keep you fortified throughout.

6 days | 160–215 miles | Starts at $2,995 | Intermediate

Sierra Gravel Camp | Dirt Gypsy Adventures

This mixed-terrain camp (gravel, fire roads, asphalt, and singletrack) offers some of the best off-road riding in and around Northern California’s Tahoe National Forest—along with swimming holes, beer tastings, and farm-to-table dinners.

5 days | up to 295 miles | $1,975 | Intermediate/Advanced

BEST FALL COLORS

Lake champlain valley fall foliage.

Enjoy Vermont’s famous foliage by bike on this inn-to-inn adventure across the gently rolling valley between the Green Mountains and New York’s majestic Adirondack peaks. Daily rides wind through a breathtaking canopy of red, amber, and gold, while topping out at 54 miles—giving you time for off-bike exploring. Picnic lunches, covered bridges, and a seemingly endless number of New England’s iconic red barns add to the allure. Lodging includes historic hotels and charming country inns.

6 days | 160–275 miles | $2,559 | Intermediate

Mississippi Natchez Trace Guided Tour | VBT

The South has some of the country’s most spectacular, and underappreciated, fall foliage. This guided trip gives you a generous glimpse along the historically significant Natchez Trace Parkway, a designated bike route that loosely follows the original 500-mile Native American footpath that connected Natchez, Mississippi, with Nashville.

6 days | 95–140 miles | $1,995 | Recreational/Intermediate

BEST CULTURAL HISTORY

Underground railroad route, adventure cycling association.

The Underground Railroad was the secret network of homes and churches that helped enslaved people reach free states and Canada. This route from Mobile, Alabama, to Owen Sound, Ontario, pays homage to that perilous journey and is part of the ACA’s 50,000+ mile route network. While there is a guided tour offered on the route, it is most frequently traveled by self-guided cyclists who rely on the ACA’s detailed maps and GPX data for guidance. There is no fee to ride the route other than to purchase the map set or GPX data, or use their Bicycle Route Navigator app. (Adventure Cycling members also get a discount on paper maps, among many other benefits).

2,016 miles (shortest leg 378 miles) | Intermediate/Advanced

Bike/Hike New Mexico | Great Freedom Adventures

Dive into New Mexico’s rich Indigenous culture and history on foot and by bike. Ride highlights include the High Road to Taos and Enchanted Circle, a National Forest Scenic Byway.

6 days | 50–130 miles (+15 walking) | $3,190 | Intermediate

BEST FOR FAMILIES

Mt. rushmore family tour, bicycle adventures.

This six-day itinerary pairs riding time with activities that kids (and parents) will enjoy. Options for tagalong bikes and trailers make it accessible to even the smallest riders, and van support keeps them close when legs tire out. Groups max out at eight; small enough to accommodate mood swings and last-minute plans. The route ticks off educational landmarks, too: South Dakota’s Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, and Crazy Horse. Plus, families get ample bonding time in the afternoons and evenings to relax and unwind.

6 days | 110 miles | $2,566 | Recreational/Intermediate

South Rim Grand Canyon | Western Spirit

Families who are serious about biking will love this all-day on the bike, nights under the stars, exploration of one of America’s most iconic natural attractions.

5 days | 75–95 miles | $1,295 | Intermediate

BEST NATIONAL PARK TOUR

Yellowstone to glacier, rei adventures.

You’ll hit two of America’s most stunning national parks on this 10-day, fully supported journey through Big Sky Country. Ride days range from 34 to 80 miles, and nights are spent both under the stars and in comfortable hotels. Sky-high geysers, wildlife encounters (bison and mountain goats among them), and craft beer samplings will round out your experience. Climbers will like the 10 miles of switchbacks up to the Continental Divide–Pipestone Pass. And there are plenty of off-bike thrills as well, including lake swims and whitewater rafting. The bucket-list highlight: the ride to Logan Pass at 6,646 feet up Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park.

10 days | 455 miles | Starts at $3,999 REI members ($4,268 non-members) | Intermediate/Advanced

Maine Bike Tour | Backroads

Immerse all of your senses on this trip through and around Acadia National Park. Pine forests, fresh lobster dinners, and time to wander museums and local shops round out the laid-back experience.

5 days | 90–160 miles | $3,199–$3,599 | Intermediate/Advanced

BEST MOUNTAIN BIKING

Fruita singletrack, western spirit.

A mix of steady climbs and rollicking descents on this epic dirt-culture experience will keep your quads guessing. The riding is challenging, but you’ll be rewarded with near-constant panoramic views of the Colorado River Valley and La Sal Mountain range. Guides sweat the small stuff (Western Spirit has set the standard in lavish camp cuisine for more than 30 years) so you can squeeze all the stoke from some of Colorado’s premier singletrack, including the famous Kokopelli Trail, the Western Rim, and the purpose-built Book Cliff Trail System.

5 days | 100 miles | $1,295 | Intermediate/Advanced

Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Tour | Escape Adventures

At the end of each exhilarating day riding premium Sawtooth Mountain trails, you’ll be met with a freshly prepared meal and a bubbling hot spring to unwind in.

5 days | 70–115 miles | $1,349 | Recreational/Intermediate

BEST WOMEN-ONLY

Finger lakes wine country.

This women-only tour of New York’s Finger Lakes region—the birthplace of the women’s suffrage movement—includes stops in Susan B. Anthony’s and Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s hometowns. Enjoy a mix of rolling and flat terrain with rides that range from 13 to 50 miles and stops to sample the dry Riesling and other wines the region is famous for. There’s also time to explore museums and parks that tell the story of how American women fought for the right to vote.

4 days | 125–140 miles | $1,640 | Intermediate

Viva Southwest Las Vegas/St. George Mountain Bike Skills Camp | Sacred Rides

Forget light spins and wine sipping: This is for mountain bikers who want a solid week of coaching on some of the best trails Las Vegas and southwestern Utah have to offer.

6 days | ~75 miles | $2,595 | Advanced

BEST FOR NEW RIDERS

San juan islands bike tour, trek travel.

Explore this idyllic Washington State archipelago with a pair of knowledgeable guides, doable mileage (daily average: 20), and a bike that suits you best (choose a Domane SL7 Disc or a Verve+ e-bike). Wide open views of rolling farmland, the Pacific Ocean, and the majestic Cascades will distract you from any first-trip jitters. Multiple daily route options and a support van let you comfortably ride at your own pace. Fuel up on local cuisine at some of the islands’ most acclaimed restaurants, and overnight at boutique inns.

6 days | 120 miles | $3,499 | Recreational/Intermediate

Savannah to Charleston | Sojourn

Manageable daily mileage and tree-lined routes make this great for first-timers.

7 days | 60–130 miles | $3,765 | Recreational

BEST PRO TRAINING GROUNDS

Malibu challenge bike tour.

DuVine is known for crafting incredible cycling experiences, and their four-day trip in and around the Santa Monica Mountains is no exception. You’ll hit iconic local climbs like Latigo Canyon, Stunt and Piuma Roads, and the twisty hairpin turns on Decker. You’ll grab espresso at Pedalers Fork, a well-loved bike-themed eatery in Calabasas. And you’ll stay at the luxe Four Seasons Westlake Village while dining on farm-to-table meals accompanied by selections from California winemakers and breweries. DuVine can also customize a private tour by extending the trip length or increasing your daily mileage.

4 days | 165–185 miles | $3,995 | Advanced

Texas Ride Camp | Trek Travel

Ride the ranchlands and rolling terrain of Texas Hill (and wine!) Country, which has long been a secret winter-training hotspot for pro cyclists.

7 days | 290–350 miles | $1,799 | Advanced

BEST FOR WINE/BEER LOVER

California wine country.

When your meals are prepared by a Michelin-star chef (avid cyclist Matthew Accarrino) in Sonoma County, paired with hand-selected local wines, and served after you’ve ridden anywhere from 22 to 82 miles, you know you’ve hit the jackpot. Routes snake along manicured vineyards and offer up plenty of robust climbs. Trips start and end in Healdsburg, a cozy hamlet with great spots for off-bike exploring. Groups max out at 12, making for an intimate vibe. Included luxuries like postride massages and laundry service for your kit add to the pampered feel.

5 days | 210 miles | $3,450 | Intermediate

Asheville Craft Beer Bike Tour | Outfitter Bicycle

This self-guided road tour includes stops at premier craft breweries in and around Asheville, North Carolina—including the bike-focused Oskar Blues in Brevard. Daily routes range from 8 to 75 miles, with a mountain bike option on day five.

6 days | 60–250 miles | starts at $1,595 | All levels

BEST BEACH-ADJACENT TOUR

Florida gulf beaches & rail trails bike tour, discovery bicycle tours.

Flat rail trails hug Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast and meander through state parkland for this weeklong trip. New riders will appreciate the super-chill pace and mostly traffic-free route. Off-bike options include kayaking, cultural visits (Salvador Dalí and Ringling Museums), and even an MLB spring training game. Sleep each night in a beachside hotel.

6 days | 140–210 miles | $2,495 | Recreational

Maui Biking | Great Explorations

Ride 25 to 65 miles each day, with options to customize: whale watching, daily yoga, and the option to tackle the 38-mile climb up the Haleakala volcano.

7 days | 260–375 miles | $2,750 | Intermediate

BEST CITY EXPERIENCE

Experience harlem tour, i bike harlem.

Get an intimate look at one of New York City’s most influential neighborhoods on this afternoon outing that introduces guests to the people and places that make the area a landmark district. You’ll ride through the heart of this vibrant section of northern Manhattan, and visit sites significant to Black culture and history, including churches, jazz clubs, speakeasies, museums, famous residences, and restaurants.

4.5 hours | 10 miles | $87 | Moderate

Baltimore, Richmond, Charlotte | Bike & Brunch Tours

All levels are welcome on these morning or afternoon tours that highlight Black history and community in one of three East Coast cities. Brunch is optional (and extra), but the temptation to grab a meal at a hidden local gem will be hard to resist.

3 hours | Up to 10 miles | $28–$43 | Recreational/Intermediate

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Cycling Tours & Bike Trips in USA

Life is about the journey, not the destination and that couldn't be more true than on a cycling tour in USA. Travel on countless routes lasting from 4 days up to 16 days, and with 42 USA bike tours listed you're sure to find one for you. Click here to see all cycling holidays .

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42 usa bicycle tours with 11 reviews.

Cycling Maine's Coast & National Park

Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes Bike Tour

San Juan Islands 6 Day Bike Tour

Nevada Trails to Rails small group beginner and intermediate bike and hike 7 day tour- max of 8 guests.

This trip was an incredible way to access and ride an entire blossoming network of trails in and around Ely whihc are otherwise rather hard to navigate without a guide. The food way amazing! The staff were incredible - helpful, very experienced and knowledgeable. I couldn't recommend Bindlestiff more highly.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Moab Hub Tour – Spring

• Hiking & Trekking

Ultimate Active Alaska

USA Road Trip — Highway 1, Yosemite & Utah

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Picture yourself on a sunny morning, mounting your bike and setting off for a two-wheeled adventure. You feel the wind in your hair, hear the birds singing, and soak in the scenic views as you pedal along. Stopping for a rest, you indulge in local delicacies, taking in the culture while you review the afternoon's itinerary.

This is the magic of bike tour vacations...and it’s not just for experienced cyclists.

With the right guidance and preparation, even beginners can experience the joys of exploring the world on two wheels. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with the essential information you need to embark on your first bike tour, including the different types of bike tours for newbies, how to prepare, and the best destinations to explore.

Short Summary

Experience the joy of bike touring with incredible physical and cultural benefits!

Discover beginner-friendly tours, from guided to self-guided, boat & e-bike tours.

Prepare for your first tour with the right training plan, nutrition & safety tips for a successful journey!

Why choose a Bike Tour?

So, why choose a bike tour in the first place?

As a novice cyclist, you might be wondering if bike touring is the right fit for you. But rest assured, there are plenty of benefits that make bike touring an incredible experience. For one, the physical exercise and cultural immersion you’ll get from a bike tour are unmatched. It allows you to cycle through picturesque landscapes, explore charming villages, and connect with nature in a way that simply isn’t possible with other forms of travel.

Plus, you’ll be burning calories and improving your cardiovascular health along the way.

Not only will you be immersed in new cultures and destinations, but you’ll also have the opportunity to learn valuable cycling tips and make lasting connections with other cyclists. Our bike tours bring together riders of all levels, allowing beginners to learn from more experienced cyclists and share in the camaraderie that comes with tackling longer rides together.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to hop on your bike and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Types of Bike Tours for First-Timers

Now that you’re ready to dive into the world of bike touring, let’s explore the different types of tours available for beginners. Each type of tour offers a unique experience, catering to various preferences and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a structured, guided experience or prefer the freedom of self-guided exploration, there’s a tour out there for you. All of our tours include support services like accommodations, meals, and luggage transfers allowing you to focus on enjoying the ride without worrying about logistics.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into four types of beginner-friendly bike tours: guided tours, self-guided tours, bike and boat tours, and e-bike tours. We’ll discuss the advantages and challenges of each type, helping you choose the perfect tour for your needs and preferences.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are an excellent option for beginners who prefer a more structured experience. With a guided tour, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will lead you through the planned route and provide valuable insights into the local culture, history, and landscape.

One of the main advantages of guided tours is the support they offer, both in terms of route planning and on-the-road assistance. Your guide will help you navigate the terrain, ensuring you stay on track and avoid any potential pitfalls. Plus, with a group of fellow riders, you’ll always have someone to share the experience with, making guided tours a social and engaging way to explore new destinations.

Self-Guided Tours

If you’re craving more independence and flexibility, self-guided tours might be the perfect choice for you. These tours allow you to explore at your own pace and chart your own course, offering that extra sense of adventure that’s hard to replicate with a guided tour.

However, self-guided tours do require more in the way of navigation skills, as you’ll be responsible for finding your way. Map reading and the ability to use a GPS device will come in handy!

Top tip for less experienced riders: Make sure to pace yourself properly and follow the safety guidance provided to get the most out of your tour.

Learn more about guided vs self-guided tours here .

Bike and Boat Tours

For a truly unique and exciting experience, consider embarking on a bike and boat tour. These tours combine the thrill of cycling with the relaxation of cruising, offering a one-of-a-kind way to explore coastal regions and waterways. Imagine cycling through quaint villages and bustling cities during the day, then returning to your boat – which serves as a floating hotel – at night, as it transports you to the next stage of your journey.

Bike and boat tours are available in various formats, including guided tours with an experienced guide, self-guided options for those who prefer more independence, and even e-bike tours for a more leisurely ride. No matter which type you choose, a bike and boat tour promises an unforgettable adventure that combines the best of both worlds.

E-Bike Tours

E-bike tours are a fantastic option for beginners who want an easier ride without sacrificing the benefits of traditional cycling. E-bikes are pedal-assist bicycles with an electric motor that provides additional power to each pedal stroke, making it easier to tackle various terrains and distances. This means you can enjoy the same sense of adventure and exploration as traditional cycling while expending less effort.

E-bike tours are available in various formats, including guided, self-guided, and bike and boat options. E-bikes allow you to experience the joys of bike touring without the physical strain that can sometimes come with traditional cycling on road bikes. E-bike tours are perfect for those who are new to cycling or simply want a more leisurely experience, and many of our tours now offer an e-bike option.

Learn more about e-bikes here .

Preparing for Your First Bike Tour

Before embarking on your first bike tour, it’s helpful to prepare yourself both physically and mentally. Building your cycling fitness, incorporating cross-training activities, and ensuring proper nutrition and hydration will all contribute to a more enjoyable and successful experience.

In the following sections, we’ll provide some guidance on how to get your body and mind ready for your first bike tour. We’ll discuss cycling workouts, cross-training, and nutrition and hydration strategies, all designed to help you make the most of your cycling adventure.

Cycling Workouts

Building your cycling fitness will help to make your first bike tour more enjoyable while reducing any pre-vacation anxiety. A progressive training plan that includes easy rides, interval training, and longer weekend rides can help you develop the stamina and strength necessary for a successful tour.

Interval training can be very effective for increasing your total workload. It alternates between periods of higher and lower intensity, allowing you to optimize your results. Combining long, slow rides with short, hard, fast ones will also aid in building endurance and sustaining a steady pace throughout your tour.

Cross-Training

In addition to cycling workouts, incorporating cross-training activities can help enhance your overall fitness and prevent injury. Activities such as swimming, yoga, or strength training can build endurance, strength, and flexibility in your core, legs, and upper body, and help to prepare you for your tour.

Try incorporating cross-training activities on alternate days or during your rest days to maximize their benefits and keep your training routine fresh and engaging. A well-rounded fitness program will not only improve your cycling performance but also help you enjoy the ride even more.

Nutrition and Hydration

Proper nutrition and hydration will also help to improve physical performance ahead of your first bike tour. While on the tour, each morning you'll enjoy a nutritious breakfast to provide you with the energy needed for the journey ahead.

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining your energy levels and preventing fatigue. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your ride, and consider incorporating sports drinks or energy bars for an extra boost during longer rides.

Top Beginner-Friendly Bike Tours

Now that you’re prepared for your first bike tour, it’s time to explore some of the most beginner-friendly destinations in Europe.

Europe is a fantastic region for beginner cyclists, offering picturesque routes in countries like France, Italy, and the Netherlands. Well-maintained bike paths and diverse landscapes – from rolling countryside to dramatic coastlines – make Europe an ideal destination for those new to bike touring.

Some of the most exciting European destinations for beginner cyclists include the River Loire in France, the Danube Bike Path in Germany, and the Catalonia region in Spain. Each of these destinations offers a unique cultural experience, stunning scenery, and a welcoming cycling community that will make your first bike tour an unforgettable adventure.

Here are a few of our best European picks for beginners:

Amsterdam to Bruges: Cycling through South Holland and Zeeland

https://www.biketours.com/holland/amsterdam-bruges-cycling-south-holland-zeeland/

Bicycle Paths of the Dolomites

https://www.biketours.com/italy/bicycle-paths-dolomites/

Tauern Bike Path (Krimml-Passau)

https://www.biketours.com/austria/tauern-bike-path-krimml-passau/

German Rivers, Wines & Cycle Paths

https://www.biketours.com/tours/german-rivers-wines-and-cycle-paths-by-bike-and-boat/

Burgundy Wine Trails: Beaune to Macon on the “Voie Verte”

https://www.biketours.com/france/burgundy-wine-trails/

Danube Waltz Bike and Boat Passau - Budapest - Passau

https://www.biketours.com/austria/danube-waltz-bike-boat-passau-budapest/

Tips for a Successful Beginner Bike Tour

To ensure a successful and enjoyable bike tour, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.

In the following sections, we’ll provide more detailed advice on pacing yourself, planning your route, and adhering to cycling etiquette and safety guidelines. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your first bike tour with confidence.

Pacing Yourself

One of the most important aspects of a successful bike tour is learning to pace yourself.

As a beginner cyclist, it’s crucial to manage your energy and avoid overexertion by starting slow, taking breaks when needed, and listening to your body.

Remember that it’s okay to take your time and enjoy the ride – after all, bike touring is about the journey, not just the destination. By pacing yourself and gradually building your mileage, you’ll be more able to tackle long rides and truly savor the experience of exploring new destinations on two wheels.

Navigation and Route Planning

Understanding your route is essential for a smooth and enjoyable bike tour. At BikeTours.com, we give you everything you need to prepare for your daily route, considering factors like distance, terrain, and points of interest along the way, so you can make the most of your ride.

Etiquette and Safety

Following cycling etiquette and safety guidelines is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the road. Some key tips include signaling turns, obeying traffic laws, and wearing appropriate gear, such as a helmet and reflective clothing. Additionally, investing in essential bike accessories can enhance your overall cycling experience.

Additionally, be mindful of other road users, and respect their space and right-of-way. By adhering to these etiquette and safety rules, you’ll not only ensure a safer ride for yourself, but also contribute to a more pleasant experience for your fellow cyclists and road users.

In conclusion, bike touring offers beginner cyclists an incredible opportunity to explore new destinations, improve their fitness, and connect with nature and fellow riders. With the right guidance and preparation, you too can embark on your first bike tour and experience the joys of exploring the world on two wheels.

Whether you choose a guided, self-guided, bike and boat, or e-bike tour, there’s a perfect adventure out there for you. So gear up, start training, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable bike touring journey that will leave you craving more.

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Bicycle Touring Guide for Beginners: Everything You Need To Know

The idea of planning and preparing for your first-ever bike tour might seem a little intimidating at first. I completely understand — I was very intimidated when I left for my first-ever tour ( from London to Istanbul ), but I quickly discovered that I needn’t have been worried!

In this bicycle touring guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know in order to plan and prepare for your first cycle tour, including how to choose a bike for touring, what gear you’ll need, how to budget, ideas on where to go, tips for life on the road and more.

I’ll also be responding to worries that novice cycle tourists often have, such as whether you need to be really fit and whether you need to know a lot about bikes in order to tour.

Let’s dive in!

What is bicycle touring?

Simply put, bicycle touring is travelling by bicycle.

It’s a type of adventure travel that combines cycling with backpacking. You’ll cycle for days, weeks, months or even years, with your luggage attached to your bike. In doing so, you are self-sufficient and your journey is self-powered.

Cycle touring vs bikepacking

The phrases “cycle touring” and “bikepacking” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to travelling by bike, but it’s the terrain and type of bike used that sets them apart.

Cycle touring is typically done on-road or along bike paths, using a touring, hybrid, or even a road bike.

Bikepacking refers to off-road adventures along dirt roads and/or in the mountains, on a bike with fatter tyres, such as a mountain or fat bike.

For the purpose of this guide, we will focus on cycle touring , but a lot of the information here will also be useful to those who are interested in bikepacking.

Why should you go on a bicycle tour?

There are few better ways to explore the world than by bicycle.

Most tourists will travel from hotspot to hotspot, but on a bike, you’ll get to uncover things that most people miss. You’ll really connect with your surroundings and notice the fine details of the region you’re travelling through.

In a car, you see so much yet experience so little. There’s no real connection to what’s just outside of your window; you’ll see but a timelapse of the world around you. On foot, you soak up each individual step, but with this comes confinement and small distances covered each day.

That’s where bicycle touring, for me, wins every time. On a bicycle, you’ll cover substantial distances, yet you’ll still be slow enough to really see and experience everything around you. If it’s raining, you’re soaked. If it’s hot, you’re sweating. There’s no AC to turn on, no roof over your head. Dirt, dust and insects will stick to your sweat-clad skin. You must grind up the hills, but then you’ll have the joy of coasting down them.

Not only this but bicycle touring is a cheap way and eco-friendly way to travel!

READ MORE: 10 Reasons Why You Should Try Bicycle Touring

How to choose a bike for touring

Touring bikes are specifically designed for long-distance, weight-bearing cycling. They have a longer wheelbase than regular bikes, providing more stability and comfort while carrying a load, and have several attachment points for racks and bags.

When choosing a touring bike , think about the demands of your ride:

Duration : For short tours — perhaps a week or two — just about any bike will do. If you’re planning a longer trip, there’s a stronger case for using a higher quality bike that won’t fail under strain.

Location : If you are touring in a remote location, where access to bike repair is infrequent, it’s a good idea to invest in a quality bike that is unlikely to break down and leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Terrain : If you’ll be sticking mostly to roads, you can really use any bike, although skinnier tyres will enable you to go faster. If you’re planning on going off-road and riding over dirt paths and mountainous terrain, you’ll want a bike with wide tyres and good suspension.

That being said, you don’t need  a touring bike. A nice bike is just that: nice but not essential. People have toured great distances on bikes that didn’t look up to the job. I cycled across Europe using a second-hand bike from a charity shop, and Thomas Stevens cycled the world on a penny-farthing in the 1800s!

Your budget needn’t hold you back . You really don’t need to splurge on an expensive new bike, unless you want to. As long as your bike has fitment points so you can attach a rack and panniers, decent gears and tyres and a comfortable saddle, there’s no reason why you can’t tour on it. Just keep in mind that long rides over challenging terrain may be a strain on your cheaper, older bike.

If you’re planning on a long tour over challenging terrain and want to invest in something designed for such an expedition, take a look at the following touring bikes:

• Fuji Touring
• Cube Touring Bike
• Trek 520 Disc
• Kona Sutra Adventure Road Bike
• Ridgeback Panorama

What gear and equipment do you need for a bicycle tour?

At its heart, bike touring is all about minimalism and simplicity. The mantra of “it’s better to have it and not need it” is not the way to go. You need to be selective with what you bring as you’re the one who must grind the weight of your luggage up those hills!

Here is what I recommend you bring with you on your bicycle tour:

• Panniers — I love these ones
• Inner tubes
• Tail lights
• 2 cycling shorts
• Non-cycling pants
• Long sleeve layer
• Jumper/fleece
• Waterproof jacket
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 5 pairs of socks

Camping gear

• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat — I love this  Forclaz mat  
• Travel pillow
• Gas cylinder
• Portable stove
• Plates/cutlery
• Matches/lighter

Miscellaneous

• Wallet and money
• Refillable water bottle
• Soap & shampoo
• Toothbrush & paste
• Hairbrush & hair ties
• Travel towel
• Battery packs

(A side note: you don’t need all of this stuff. You can pick and choose what would provide comfort and value to you during your tour.)

READ MORE: A Complete Bike Touring Gear Guide and Kit List

How do I carry all my gear?

Panniers are a type of bag that sit on your bike and store all your stuff. They’ll mount over your wheels, either at the front, back, or both. You’ll need to fit racks onto your bike, and then clip the panniers onto these racks.

Pannier racks

Choosing a pannier rack for your bicycle is about as exciting as watching paint dry, but strong racks are  essential  when preparing for a long-distance bicycle tour. You’ll be clipping your panniers and bike bags onto them so they need to be hard-wearing and capable of carrying your luggage.

Every bike is different and there are many variables to consider when choosing your racks:

• Does your bike have disc brakes or rim brakes? Your rack might need extra clearance if you have disc brakes.
• Does your bike have mounts to attach the back rack to, or will you need to use clips?
• Does the rack give you plenty of heel clearance? Essential if you actually want to be able to pedal when the panniers are attached!

You’ll also want to consider the material your racks are made from:

• Aluminium: very lightweight but less durable.
• Chromoly: heavier than aluminium but durable and strong.
• Steel: heavier than chromoly but very durable and can be welded if they break.
• Titanium: lightweight but expensive.

Make sure to check your wheel size and dimensions to get the one best suited to your bike. If you don’t know much about bikes, I’d advise getting racks fitted at your local bicycle shop.

Panniers and bike bags

Panniers/bike bags are where you’re going to store all your gear, and they’ll clip onto your pannier racks.

Ortlieb  is one of the most popular panniers and bike bag brands as their bags are known for being waterproof and durable. That being said, Ortlieb isn’t the cheapest at £100+. You certainly don’t need to fork out for Ortliebs, unless you want a really great pair that’ll last you a long time, but it’s worth getting good quality, waterproof panniers that will last.

If you’ll be camping on your tour, you’ll likely need front panniers as well as back panniers, as camping and cooking gear can take up a lot of space. If you’ll be staying in hotels or similar on your tour, you may well be able to get away with back panniers only. It all depends on how much gear you’ll be carrying!

I use these  back panniers from BTWIN  and they serve me very well. They’re waterproof, durable and have plenty of space.

I had some cheap front panniers which, quite frankly, sucked, and they broke quickly. This is why I advise investing in some good quality panniers.

Some great options for panniers include:

• Ortlieb 20L Back Roller Classic
• Arkel 22.5L Panniers
• Thule Shield 25L Pannier Pair

READ MORE: The 8 Best Panniers For Touring in 2022

How to pick a destination for your first bike trip

It seems that many people think that travelling by bike needs to be adventurous. Sure, there are particularly intrepid individuals out there who are enthused about navigating the steppes of Central Asia or sweating their way across the Sahara desert, but these are far and few between.

Bicycle touring can be thought of as a “cycling holiday” — you’re doing this to enjoy yourself, after all!

When deciding where to go for a bicycle tour, you’ll want to consider the following:

Time: Most of us can only take a short while out of work at a time, or have commitments that can’t be abandoned for too long. If you don’t have much time, why not start local? Just get out of your house and start cycling — a weekend tour can still be a great adventure! If you have two weeks or longer, you have a lot more choice on where to go.

Season: The weather can have a massive impact on how much you enjoy your tour. Choosing to cycle across Asia during the monsoon season or northern Canada during winter could be miserable.

Style: Does your chosen destination fit your cycling and travel style? Think about what you want to get out of your cycle tour, what sights you want to see and how comfortable you are cycling in remote places.

Experience: When planning a bike tour, you should use your previous riding experience to figure out how much distance and how much incline you’re capable of covering. For example, if you’re not in the best shape, touring the steep inclines of the Pyrenees might not be such a fun experience for you.

Ideas on where to go bicycle touring

Here are some great destination ideas for first-time bike tourers:

Western Europe

Many first-time bike tourers select Europe as their first adventure. It’s a great continent to cycle in: bike paths are decent, amenities are great and distances between cities and towns are much smaller than in other parts of the world. Not only this, but Europe is diverse with beautiful scenery and fascinating cultures, and is home to a great community of cycle tourists.

There’s a huge network of dedicated bicycle routes that span across Europe, known as the EuroVelo routes. These are perfect for first-time cycle tourists, as they make planning easy. Just pick a route and follow it!

I would say that Western Europe is more beginner-friendly than Eastern Europe, as (typically) bike paths are better maintained, infrastructure is more set up for cyclists and campsites are everywhere.

I personally cycled EuroVelo 6 one summer and had a fantastic time pedalling along rivers and visiting capital cities. If you’d like to cycle along the Mediterranean coast, taking in Spanish beaches, the canals of Venice, beautiful Croatia and more, have a look into EuroVelo 8.

If you’ve got a week for your cycle tour, Passau to Vienna is a great choice.

If you have 2-3 weeks, I would recommend following the Loire River in France (the Loire a Velo ), or the EuroVelo 15 , which follows the Rhine River through Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.

South Korea

The South Korean government has invested massively in cycling, meaning the country now has thousands of kilometres of dedicated bicycle paths. The most famous of their bike routes is the 4 Rivers Path , a 633 km-long path connecting the major Korean cities of Seoul and Busan. It’s an ideal option for a beginner’s bicycle tour.

If you want to see more of the country, you could even make up your own route, as South Korea has an excellent road network with many secondary roads that usually see little traffic.

Camping culture in South Korea is huge and there are lots of free campsites scattered everywhere, usually in scenic areas, such as by the beach or a lake. South Korea is also one of the safest countries in Asia, making it ideal for solo cyclists who might worry about cycling alone.

Japan is a dream destination for many, but many people are put off from visiting due to the high costs. However, there is a budget way to explore Japan, and this is — you guessed it — by bicycle touring.

Wild camping is legal in Japan, meaning you can pitch your tent for free as your travel around the country. Public baths are everywhere and cheap, meaning you can wash easily on the road, too.

Roads in Japan are generally well-maintained, aside from the occasional pothole. Long cycling paths are not as common as in South Korea, but it’s possible to cycle on minor roads, which are usually very beautiful and not too heavily trafficked.

Like South Korea, Japan is also incredibly safe, making it a great option for solo cyclists.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a very popular destination for cycle tourists; it has a warm climate, there’s so much to see and do, and it’s very budget-friendly . It’s feasible for you to eat out every day and stay in guesthouses, rather than camp and cook your own meals. With this in mind, you could think of Southeast Asia as a luxury destination for touring!

The landscapes are spectacular in this part of the world. You could cycle down the coast of Vietnam, tour through peaceful Laos or pedal along the mighty Mekong River.

How to budget for a bicycle tour

One of the perks of cycle touring is that it’s typically cheaper than your average getaway. Your cooking and camping gear have you covered for food and accommodation, and your bicycle is your transport.

That being said, your daily bicycle touring costs will vary massively depending on your touring style and which part of the world you’re in.

Cycle touring is doable on any budget, but if you’re cycling on a shoestring, it may require a strong sense of adventure and the will to adapt to some discomfort.

If you choose to wild camp, cook your own meals and skip paid attractions, you could potentially tour on a mere $5-10 per day.

On the other hand, you could easily burn through over $100 a day if you choose to eat out and stay in hotels while touring expensive places like West Europe, North America and Australia.

Most tourers’ daily budget falls somewhere in the middle. For example, I prefer to tour by staying at campsites and cooking my own meals. This way, I always have a place to pitch my tent with access to toilet and shower facilities. I also allow myself some luxuries, such as the occasional meal out, fancy coffee from cafes, and some paid attractions. Touring this way, I spent roughly €30 per day while cycling across Europe.

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to camp but is worried about the costs of staying in hotels, consider touring somewhere like Southeast Asia, where accommodation and eating out are super cheap. You could expect to pay roughly $20-30 per day in Southeast Asia by eating delicious street food and staying in budget guesthouses.

As well as your daily touring costs of food, accommodation etc, you’ll want to factor in potential bike repairs and kit replacements. Leave yourself a buffer, in case a hole rips into your tent or your bike needs professional repair.

Finding bike-friendly accommodation

Unless you’re planning a short trip, it’s not practical to plan accommodation in advance. Weather, equipment, your energy levels and other factors can all influence the distance you cover each day. You might also find an unexpectedly nice town and want to spend some time there. With this in mind, it’s best to remain as flexible as possible when it comes to where you lay your head at night.

Campgrounds

Campgrounds offer a safe place to pitch your tent, along with a toilet and shower, and usually WiFi and electrical outlets, too. They’ll even sometimes have laundry facilities, cooking stations and more. Campgrounds can be a great place to stay at a really reasonable price.

In Europe, Australia and New Zealand, you’ll find that campgrounds are everywhere and usually good value for money. In Japan and South Korea, there are many free campgrounds where you can stay.

Watch out for privately-run campsites in the US, as they can charge a lot of money for a small patch of grass. They usually prioritise RVs and may even turn cyclists away!

You won’t really find campgrounds in developing countries, such as in the Middle East or South Asia.

Sometimes you just need a break from camping! Hostels are generally the cheapest way to get a bed for the night, if you don’t mind sharing a room with other people. They’re most commonly found in cities or larger tourist towns — it’s unlikely you’ll find hostels in super rural areas.

In expensive places, such as West Europe or Australia, hostels can be as low as $10, although they’re usually closer to $20. In cheaper places, like Southeast Asia, they can be as low as $4 per night (yes, really)!

If you’re touring in places like Western Europe, the USA or Australia, then nothing will blow your budget faster than staying in hotels. However, if you’re sick or have been riding in bad weather for a few days, a hotel room with an actual bed and a private bathroom can be a real morale booster.

If you do stay in hotels, make sure there is somewhere secure to lock your bike up. Cycle tourists are not usually well catered for at hotels — I had to lock my bike to the fence in a hotel garden in Austria as there was nowhere else to put it.

In continental Europe, you might spot a type of hotel called a pension . Pensions are usually much more budget-friendly than a full-scale hotel and are more like a guesthouse or bed and breakfast. Pensions near bike paths in Germany and Austria often have signs outside to let cyclists know their bikes are welcome: “Radfahrer Wilkommen.”

In less expensive places, such as India or Southeast Asia, it’s affordable to stay in budget hotels every night.

Wild camping

Wild camping is a great way to save money and enjoy nature. It also offers complete flexibility, as you can pitch your tent just about anywhere — a real lifesaver in areas where tourism isn’t common.

You’ll want to find a secluded spot if you choose to wild camp, away from roads and out of sight of people.

Bear in mind that wild camping is prohibited in many countries, although many cyclists do it anyway and don’t get caught. Most people have a relatively relaxed attitude to wild campers, and so may or may not ask you to move on if you’re caught. Just make sure to be discrete: find a secluded spot, wait until dusk to set up camp and be gone by early morning.

If you’re new to wild camping, it’s normal to have some worries at first. I used to be afraid that an unpleasant stranger would come by or the police would show up to ask me to move on. However, as long as you remain hidden and are discrete, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter any problems.

WarmShowers

If you’re not familiar, Warm Showers is a free worldwide hospitality exchange for touring cyclists. It’s a fantastic community — cyclists offer to host other cyclists for a night. You’ll be given a place to sleep and a shower, but it’s likely you’ll also be given food and a beer. Warm Showers states that they have hosts in over 160 countries!

Unconventional options

Churches, police stations, gas stations, farmer’s fields and more are often viable options when looking for somewhere to spend the night. It depends on the country and the laws they have on camping, but in many places, people will be happy to help cyclists and provide somewhere for them to pitch their tent.

People across the world are hospitable and kind — particularly when they see a weary-looking cyclist with lots of gear strapped to their bike!

As an example, myself and two other cyclists pitched our tents next to a gas station in Turkey one night. The security guard gave us coffee and snacks, and a passing farmer even gifted us some watermelon and tomatoes.

Overcoming worries and doubts

If you’ve never been on a cycle tour, you may feel overwhelmed and have doubts about whether you’re capable or not.

Let me tell you: if I can do it, then so can you. With no touring experience, little knowledge of bike mechanics and a not-so-great level of fitness, I cycled from London to Istanbul over the course of 3 months.

I am not particularly brave or strong-willed. I just took it one day at a time.

What if I know NOTHING about bike mechanics?

Don’t worry! I didn’t know much about bike mechanics before committing to my first 3-month cycle tour.

That being said, it would be extremely helpful to know a few basics in case of a breakdown. At a minimum, you should know how to pump your tyres and how to repair a flat tyre.

If you really do know nothing about bike repair, it would be wise to choose a destination where you’re not going to become stuck if your bike breaks down. A popular route like the western part of EuroVelo 6 is dotted with bike repair shops, as well as other bike tourists who would probably be happy to help if you’re in a tough spot.

How do I train for a bicycle tour? Do I need to be really fit?

As the saying goes, “train for the tour or let the tour train you.”

You do not need to be really fit. Training can be done on the road, as long as you’re willing to take things slowly at first. You don’t need to cover massive distances each day if you don’t want to, and no one will judge you if you need to get off your bike and push sometimes.

Ignore the self-important types who think you’re not a proper cyclist just because you only cycled 30km and pushed your bike up that hill.

That being said, having good fitness will make your bike tour much more enjoyable.

Try to cycle 3 or 4 times a week, including one whole day of cycling over varied terrain. This will help to improve your fitness, as well as prepare your body for long days in the saddle.

I’m still not sure if bicycle touring is for me…

If you’re nervous about committing to a big tour, why not have a practice run? You could head out somewhere local one morning, camp that night and then head home the next day. This will give you a feel of what bicycle touring is like.

Alternatively, there are companies such as Spice Roads , Grasshopper Adventures and Bike Adventures that offer fully supported, guided cycle tours. All the logistics will be taken care of for you, so you can enjoy cycling without worrying about getting lost or finding places to stay. This is also a great option if you simply don’t feel comfortable touring on your own due to safety concerns.

What’s the best travel insurance for a bicycle tour?

It’s harder than you would expect to find a decent travel insurance policy that covers bicycle touring. And, unfortunately, most policies that do cover bicycle touring do not cover damage to or theft of your bike.

If you’re a UK resident, Adventures Insurance is probably the best option.

As the name would suggest, they specialise in insurance for more adventurous pursuits — including cycle touring. They cover personal liability and medical expenses while cycle touring, and even allow equipment up to £1,000 to be covered, with a single item limit of £600. However, the maximum duration of your cycle tour must be 3 months.

If you’re not a UK resident or will be touring for longer than 3 months on one continent , I would recommend World Nomads , whom I personally use for most backpacking and general long-term trips.

You can read World Nomads’ policy on cycling-related travel  h e re , but here are the basics:

• Cycle touring is covered but the tour must be on one continent only — no cover is available for intercontinental cycle touring.
• You’ll need to tick  ‘cycling / biking – independent cycle touring’  when buying your policy. This is an optional extra, so be sure to select it.

READ MORE: 5 Best Cycle Touring Insurance Providers

Tips for life on the road

1) Take every opportunity to refill your water bottles.

2) Drink before you are thirsty and eat before you are hungry.

3) Carrying your own toilet roll is  essential.  Trust me.

4) Double-check your camping spot before you head off for the day. Cycling back for something you’ve forgotten is the worst!

5) Especially for longer tours, build in a luxury day every so often. A nice hotel room and a warm bath are so welcome after weeks of camping.

6) Be sure to take rest days and make time for sightseeing.

7) Be conservative with the mileage at first; no amount of training can adequately train you for hours in the saddle day after day.

8) Find the little roads. They’re usually much nicer to cycle on than the more direct but busier roads.

9) Stock cubes can add flavour to almost anything and are great to mix into a perhaps otherwise flavourless camp meal.

10) Be prepared to get dirty! Sweat + sunscreen + cycling is an unpleasant combination. Tiny insects and layers of dust/dirt will stick to your skin.

11) Learn the mistakes drivers make, and assume everyone is going to make them every time.

12) Numbness in any part of your body should be treated as a warning sign that something needs to change in your bike fit or cycling posture. Numbness can lead to serious problems and should be treated seriously.

13) It’s not a race. Who cares if you only cycle 10km a day? As long as you’re enjoying yourself, that’s all that matters. As Jimmy Buffett said, “go fast enough to get there but slow enough to see.”

14) A lot of the challenges are mental. The going can get tough at times, but the pros of touring have always outweighed the cons for me.

15) The most important bike touring tip of all:  have fun!

READ MORE: 40 Random Yet Helpful Bike Touring Tips

I hope this bicycle touring guide for beginners has been useful and has provided a good foundation of knowledge to help you plan and prepare for your first cycle tour.

Please feel free to post any questions you may have in the comments section below; I’ll be more than happy to answer!

Happy cycling, Lauren

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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Really great info here, thank you!

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DuVine’s guides speak the language and know the roads and regions like the backs of their hands.

They also happen to be former pro cyclists, winemakers, and PhD scholars. They can trace their heritage from the Champagne merchants who introduced bubbly to the United States. They’ve worked in Michelin kitchens and as Editor-in-Chief of a cycling magazine. But above all, they’re local—which translates into personal connections worth sharing.

It’s a given that guides are leaders on and off the road, preparing picnics, fixing flat tires, and cheering you on through challenging rides. But a DuVine guide does more. They’re your compassionate and intuitive companions, carefully selected, trained, and trusted to make spontaneous detours. They’re your personal paparazzi, your support van chauffer, and the ones who slip champagne in your room—and by the end of your tour, they’re family.

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Bicycle Touring 101 | How to Start

A beginner's guide to bicycle touring: what it is and how to get started..

Credit: @heybrotrip

Mention "bike touring" and most people think Easy Rider. We ain't talking about motorcycles here though. We are going to go over an epic mode of travel - manual bicycle touring.

What is Bicycle Touring?

Bicycle touring is a type of adventure travel that combines cycling with backpacking.

Unlike regular cycling, where you pedal for miles and return home later that day, bicycle touring allows you to travel from point to point and set up camp for the night. After some shut-eye, you pack up your tent, hop on your bike and head out for the next leg.

You can plan your own trip or join a guided tour which often offer food and lodging. A bicycle tour can last for as long as you want. Some people like to take off for a weekend cycling, while others enjoy a month-long break from life to cycle across the country. If you really want an adventure, there are year-long tours like the perfect weather tour , a continental US tour that is designed so you are always biking in 70-degree weather.  

Your daily mileage depends on your fitness level, your trip goals, and the terrain. As long as there are not too many hills and you are reasonably fit, then 50 miles a day is a good benchmark for most cyclists. Moderate mileage is the beauty of bike touring - it is not as slow as hiking and not as fast as road tripping.

Cycle Touring vs Bikepacking

"Cycle touring" and " bikepacking " are often used interchangeably. Both are long-distance forms of travel on a two-wheeled manually powered bicycle. Note these terms sometimes reference different modes of transportation though. It is the type of bicycle and the type of road the bicycle is travelling that sets them apart. There is obviously a lot of overlap and the differences are negligible. Just want to clarify the terminology nonetheless..

Cycle touring is generally more on-the-road with road bikes that have thinner tires. The emphasis is more on distance as you cycle from one town or landscape to the next, possibly for months at a time.

Bikepacking is generally more off-road on a fatter-tired bike, often a mountain bike with shocks. You'll climb mountains and follow dirt trails deep through the woods, possibly for a few days.

About Kelly Hodgkins

About greenbelly.

After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Chris Cage created Greenbelly to provide fast, filling and balanced meals to backpackers. Chris also wrote How to Hike the Appalachian Trail .

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Bike Tour Guides

Bike tour managers.

Kasia Martin

Kasia is the Director of Bike Tours here at Wilderness Voyageurs. Kasia hails from Boulder, Colorado, where she worked in the high tech field and like a good Boulderite, she commuted to work year round on her bike.  She has an infectious smile, and is well known for her communication and commitment to both details and having a good time. Kasia manages the entire Wilderness Voyageurs bike tour department!

Lori Liskovec

Lori is a native of Elmira, New York. She enjoys bike touring – near and far, yoga, cooking, and flower gardening. She credits her love for cooking to the long winters in upstate New York, when she spends way too much time experimenting with recipes! You’re likely to meet her on the Erie Canal. If you do, you’re in for a treat – Lori crafts the fanciest support stop snacks of the whole staff. She likes to create healthy, delicious food, making sure to highlight local favorites and seasonal treats …. after all, “food is fuel!”

Mark Piccone

A native of upstate New York and retired Army helicopter pilot, Mark came to Wilderness Voyageurs in 2020 with six years of bike tour guiding experience. Following his military service, Mark bounced around the U.S. teaching high school, working as a personal trainer and running coach, and fixing bikes at the local bike store as a mechanic. When he’s not leading tours, Mark enjoys training for triathlons and traveling with his wife.

Jesse Wilson

Jesse comes from a long career of outdoor guiding and management! He joined team Wilderness Voyageurs in 2021 as a guide and tour manager!

Nic has always been a professional guide — first on rivers, then rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking and road cycling. She has over 20,000 touring miles in the saddle (38 states plus Canada) on short trips, long trips & six times across the country. She’s also been a writer almost as long, focused on outdoor adventure & fitness and author of five guidebooks. When she’s not on the bike, Nic performs tour manager duties from her dog sits in Santa Fe or from the road in her camper van.

Rachel Luden

Rachel is an all-around outdoorswoman, and someone you definitely want in your adventure crew! An avid trail runner and cyclist, Rachel started her career with Wilderness Voyageurs as a whitewater raft guide. After working as a guide for a few years, Rachel went to nursing school and worked as a traveling nurse all around the country. She’s recently transitioned back into the outdoor industry as a bike tour guide and tour manager for Wilderness Voyageurs. On her time off, Rachel enjoys gardening, making crafts, doing yoga, backcountry skiing and hiking in the woods with friends.

Karen Gates

Karenhas been riding bikes for years. When she was just a little tyke, she would take her uncle’s English Racer up to a cement block, climb onto the bike from the block, and ride to the end of the driveway. She couldn’t turn it around so she’d fall off to the side and walk it back to the cement block. She can make turns now…but only to the left. She is happily retired from an airline where she would take cycling vacations–she’s ridden tours in France and the US and has participated in the FL AIDS ride from Orlando to Miami.

Alexis Viene

Alexis recently discovered her love for cycling on the gravel roads of the Midwest. She spends most of the year in Kansas City, where she was born and raised. She works as a technology coordinator for a school, which allows her summers off to pursue her first passion — travel! When she’s not planning her own adventures, she’s managing bike tours and helping plan amazing adventures for our guests.

Jason Andelman

Jason is from the Washington, D.C. area and currently lives in Arlington, VA with his wife and two teenage daughters. His background is in culinary work, and he was a pastry chef for a number of years before opening his own chocolate shop. He recently sold the chocolate business after 16 years and is now shifting gears (pun intended) career-wise. He currently works part-time at a local bike shop, does a little bit of freelance cooking and will be guiding a variety of tours for Wilderness Voyageurs! He is active in the outdoors, mainly with cycling (road, gravel, and mountain) but he also loves backcountry skiing, hiking, flyfishing, cooking, and watching Nats baseball.

Tammy Schurr

Tammy is passionate about bike travel and is grateful for the connections she made with the people and the places her two wheeled travels have afforded her. She’s equally passionate about sharing the adventure of bicycle travel with others including adults and families. After leading bicycle tours throughout the US and Canada the last 20 years Tammy became a tour manager to continue supporting others to ride, connect and explore on two wheels.

Gary Smith remembers his first 10-speed Flamboyant Lime Schwinn Varsity bike a long time ago. Many bikes later and bike adventures in over 28 states and 5 continents, Gary now enjoys more biking time as a retired Pennsylvania State Park employee. Decades of inquisitiveness have filled his head with history, trivia and some very dry humor. He can help you enjoy your bike exploration adventure! Gary also travels domestically and internationally by faster conveyances as a volunteer bone marrow courier for the National Marrow Donor Program (Be The Match). He donated his marrow in 2000 and his recipient in Sydney, Australia is now 21 years+ leukemia free.

Colleen O’Neil

Colleen is an Ohiopyle local who came to work at Wilderness Voyageurs after high school. She grew up riding her bike on the Great Allegheny Passage, swimming in the Yough and running the trails around the state park. Colleen took her cycling hobby to new level when she rode the Great Divide Mountain Bike Race in 2017. In the off-season, she and her husband Montana put all their things in storage and travel somewhere warm to ride their bikes.

Paul Kingsbury

Paul lives in Elmira, NY where he’s owned a bicycle shop for nearly 40 years. He’s a lifelong cyclist with a passion for touring and helping others on tour. He’s led tours and managed mobile mechanical support for tours large and small for over a decade. The Finger Lakes and Erie Canal areas of New York State are his backyard. Living in the area, knowing the roads around the Lakes, and traveling the Canal for so many years makes him a bit of an expert on the area. Ask him anything, if he doesn’t know the answer he’ll make up something good!

James Oerding

James remembers building tree houses next to a BMX track as a youth in High Ridge, MO, but can’t seem to recall growing up.  After a journalism degree landed him in logistics, and a teaching certification landed him coaching tennis; he has come full-circle to rehabbing old houses and riding bikes, and you can’t slap the smile off of his face. A bicycle advocate who has a preternatural sense to wander, has no tolerance for boredom and wasn’t born to follow.  It’s easy to see why he loves being a bicycle tour guide.

Teri fell in love with cycling 26 years ago when she bought her first road bike. But after discovering self-contained bicycle travel and rail trails, she knew she’d bike forever. She’s an artist, and cycle travel allows her to take time to meditate on her work while seeing the world in a whole new way – with the added bonus of staying fit!

Dave Cutcliff

Dave currently lives in Hershey, PA and has been guiding for WV since 2015. His passion for sport has been evident his whole adult life. After rowing in HS and College, he took a 25 year break from rowing because of various moves and participated in various other sports. He took up rowing again in 2000 and continued until 2015, when he got into biking. He has since done self guided tours with his wife and friends in both England and Sweden, as well as doing a cross country ride in 2017 with two friends. In his spare time, he enjoys kayaking, running, golf and skiing. He also works part time at a local Mountain near Hershey.

A Pennsylvania native, Chris came to Ohiopyle to learn to be a raft guide in the summer of 2017 and stayed to guide bike tours. Aside from cycling and whitewater, his areas of interest include farming, foraging, construction projects relying on re-used and re-purposed materials, backpacking and crockpots. He’s lived in Missoula, Montana, where he enjoyed swimming in the Clark Fork and gazing at snow-capped peaks. But he always finds himself coming back to the Appalachian hills and mountains. Chris views life as an opportunity to “live deep and suck all the marrow out of life.”

Montana Miller

Montana started selling chips in the Wilderness Voyageurs store in 2009, and now takes care of our fleet of tour bikes. Most winters he rides self-supported bike tours with his wife Colleen, where they’ve cruised around Vietnam, Mexico, the mountain west, Laos, and New Zealand. His main passions are riding his mountain bike off large rocks, sunshine, garishly printed shirts, fixing his Jeep, metal work and holding his fuzzy yellow cat upside down. He also enjoys a cocktail or three.

Dave’s childhood interest in tearing apart bicycles and lawnmowers to make them run better led him to a career in Mechanical Engineering, designing and developing machines. His adventurous spirit has led him on many bicycle touring adventures including several international trips and a recent trek cross-country USA. Dave also enjoys skiing, running, tennis, kayaking, backpacking,  and restoring his 160 year old farmhouse. Dave’s friendly attitude will help you enjoy life-in-the-moment with his natural curiosity about his surroundings.

Steve Kauffman

Steve is a kayaker, ski racer, raft guide and bike tour guide at Wilderness Voyageurs. A graduate of West Virginia University, Steve spends his winters as a ski patroller at Canaan Valley Ski Resort in West Virginia.

Mike Beller

Mike is a life-long biker and grew up riding in New York’s Hudson Valley.  Since riding his bike to elementary school, through commuting to work 100 miles per week, his biking adventures have taken him up and down the East Coast and to many of Wilderness Voyageurs’ destinations. Mike enjoys meeting and riding with bikers of all skills; learning from more experienced bikers and coaching and encouraging newer bikers to meet their goals and have fun. He enjoys planning bike trips for friends and family and he volunteers at local food banks and one of DC’s community gardens supplying fresh organic produce to those in need.  Mike’s natural curiosity and engaging personality make him an entertaining and fun guide.

Before coming to Wilderness Voyageurs, Kathy was a Park Ranger at West Virginia’s North Bend State Park. Kathy loves hiking, cycling and the outdoors. She decided to bring her big smile and expertise to our bike tours in 2017!

Angelo Ross

Whether it’s bikes, skis, skateboards, or running shoes, Angelo tries to propel himself forward (and occasionally backward) every day. Angelo is a retired high school biology and ecology teacher, and a purveyor of semi-useful factoids. He is the Training Director for Seven Springs, Hidden Valley, and Laurel Mountain Snowsports Schools, a member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America Education Staff, and a member of the National Ski Patrol.

Lea Chidlow

Lea guides the GAP4 and GAP5 trips for Wilderness Voyageurs Bike Tours. Growing up just outside of Pittsburgh, Lea’s favorite place to explore as a child was Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania. Who knew she would someday have the opportunity to bike between home and her favorite place to play while introducing new friends to the history and beauty of the area? Being a local to the trail on which she guides, gives Lea a unique perspective of the narratives and people of the communities through which the Great Allegheny Passage rolls. Hiking, exploring and biking have always been her top three choices of recreation and sharing these activities with friends, old and new, is her definition of a good time.

Tom Sherburne

Tom joined WV in 2018 after 20 years in the outdoor industry as founder and CEO of Shred Ready kayak helmets and running Southern Outdoor Center, a kayaking instruction business for Auburn University.  Prior to those ventures he was an Adjunct faculty in Psychology at Auburn University. When Tom is not guiding you can find him on the slopes, backcountry skiing, on the MTB trails or on the rivers around Salida Colorado.  He enjoys MTB, touring and commuting on his bike and has completed several self-support bike tours including the Maah Daah Hey trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Natchez Trace.

Josh Lawrey

Josh is a valuable guide here at Wilderness Voyageurs. Josh received his Bachelor and Master degrees in Parks and Recreational Resource Management and Environmental Education at Slippery Rock University. He served as Assistant Director for SRU Outdoor Adventures for two years, guides the Lower Yough, Upper Yough, and Cheat Rivers, and is one of our expert kayakers. He’s also put in guiding time on the Rio Grande in Texas, various rivers in Maine, and two seasons in Costa Rica on the Pacuare River. Josh also loves riding his mountain bike and can name ANY bird you see or hear.

Jim has been interested in bikes ever since he was a child when he found his Schwin Varsity provided both his transportation and escape. Now that he is retired and his kids are out on their own, he has the opportunity to learn more from the experienced riders and do more with biking, sometimes without a plan. In his spare time, his other interests include, skiing, golfing and woodworking.

Philip Christopher

Philip’s first cycling job was during middle-school delivering newspapers. During college and throughout his career as a software engineer, Philip continued to cycle for fun and exercise. He went on numerous self-supported bike trips with friends and later with family and new “bicycling friends” on guided tours. Traveling by bicycle became a favorite way to travel off the beaten path at a perfect pace. It became a lifelong pastime and passion. As a devoted fan of vacationing by bicycle, Philip is thrilled to share this passion with Wilderness Voyageurs guests to provide fun and memorable vacations.

Heather Reynolds

Heather is a Michigan native who moved to Ohiopyle in the spring of 2019. Her journey as a bicycle enthusiast began when she bought a shiny red road bike for her 16th birthday instead of a car, often preferring to pedal everywhere around town. After completing her first 200-mile bike tour alone up the west coast of Michigan, she knew she was hooked. She loves sharing her passion for bicycle touring with others and has tons of exciting travel stories to offer. Heather is warmhearted, loves inspiring others, and is a strong advocate for living in the moment.

Alex Ferguson

Alex makes his bed in many different places along the Missouri River valley. He grew up cycling on the Katy Trail, and many curvy and hilly areas of South-Central MO. The majority of his cycling is done on the mountain bike trail, though he does frequent the road bike per its convenience. For the past few years, he has spent countless days and nights paddling SUP’s on the MO river. Alex is an artist and musician in his hometown of Washington, MO, where he owns a woodworking shop and studio, building fine handcrafted Ukuleles. “Guiding the Katy is an amazing opportunity to share such a beautiful piece of the country with others. Missouri is a true hidden gem!”

Jody has a love for all things outdoors. She remembers getting her first 10 speed as a child for Christmas and has been biking ever since. You will find her biking on the GAP throughout the summer. She also has a passion for hiking, skiing, sailing and kayaking. In the winter she is a Ski Patroller at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. She and her husband spend winters and summers in the Pennsylvania mountains and spring and fall in St. Petersburg Florida. Jody loves meeting new people and sharing biking experiences with others.

Born and raised in Cincinnati, OH, TJ learned that a bicycle represented freedom and adventure when his father took him on his first “bikepacking” adventure at eight years old. From then on, he’s always looked to plan the next adventure or challenge. After raising his kids and completing a career as a process engineer, TJ “retired in his forties to relive his twenties” Now, living nomadically with his partner (Terri), he finds great pleasure in hiking, biking, disc golf, food, drink, paddling, and campfires with friends all over the North american continent. Be careful about asking him about his last or next adventure because he might not shut up…

Richard Mitchell

Rich and his family live in Lancaster County, PA – his photo shows some of the rolling hills of this agriculturally focused area! After graduating from Penn State, Rich listened to the logical part of his brain (really his wallet) and went into a technology career. However, his heart has always been with being outdoors and active- triathlons, skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, traveling, and motorcycling are all activities Rich loves. Additionally, he now teaches scuba diving, is starting an apiary, does trail runs with his dog, and guides bicycle tours for Wilderness Voyageurs.

Ralph Parks

A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania native, Ralph has always enjoyed riding and repairing bikes. His favorite place in Western PA is Ohiopyle. His desire to become a tour guide started after doing the Pittsburgh to Washington D.C. trip. He found it very satisfying to schedule and organize his trips. After seeing the Wilderness Voyageurs vans and trailers in Ohiopyle he knew his calling was to become a tour guide for WV. His hobbies include working on his house in Deep Creek, skiing at Wisp and spending time with his family.

P.A. (Patty Ann) McLaughlin

P.A. hails from the great state of PA. currently living in her hometown of Pittsburgh. Being outdoors is her passion – she is a self-proclaimed “Outdoor Adventure Specialist” for all seasons. An accomplished skier, she spent many winters as a trainer for the National Ski Patrol and discovered her love for teaching and is now a ski instructor at a regional resort. She also plans ski trips for groups because she loves to travel. When learning to ride her first two-wheel bike she remembers being covered with bruises and road rash for an entire summer. Biking has become her go-to fair weather activity along with paddleboarding. At just 5’2”, what she lacks in height she makes up for in energy and enthusiasm for sharing the outdoors with others. Her employment video for WV was on the benefits of smiling and she looks forward to sharing the bikeways and smiles with you on your next bike trip! Happy Trails!

James Gonzalski

James has laid roots in Atlanta, GA where he lives with his partner, Alison, plus their dog, cat, and a couple turtles. Following college at Georgia Tech where he studied Computer Engineering, James spent 15 years at a great job in IT consulting. A relative newcomer to the sport of cycling, James only caught the bug in 2010. While living in the DC area for a few years he met his first cycling love: the Great Allegheny Passage plus C&O Canal trails. In 2016, James embarked on an “epitaph-worthy” bike trip from Seattle to Boston, made possible by tremendously supportive and generous family and employers. James is looking forward to bonding over bicycle tourism with Wilderness Voyageurs’s guests.

Matt Kitterman

Matt is a cycling enthusiast who enjoys all forms of non-motorized outdoor recreation. His hobbies include DIY home projects, gardening and 3D modeling. He enjoys sharing new experiences with people on bicycles. He is a snappy dresser.

Frank’s connection with Wilderness Voyageurs began decades ago working on and around the Youghiogheny River as a photographer and river guide. A lifelong cyclist and experienced bike mechanic, his guiding experience began in the 80’s hosting “Discovery Bike Tours” in Pittsburgh. He enjoys meeting people and sharing his love of the natural world, history and geography with fellow cyclists. One of several organizers of the annual “Tour De Donut” ride in New Wilmington, his interests span biking, hiking, kayaking, traveling and learning. A certified drone pilot, he is the also the owner of Top Pix, LLC.

Bill Rosche

Bill “Major” Rosche has enjoyed long bike rides his entire life. During his 30-year career as a Marine, he logged challenging rides in Africa, Asia, Hawaii and Europe including Ironman Japan in 2008. On The Mainland he has mountain biked and completed Century rides in some of the most scenic areas of the United States. An avid hiker and paddler, The Major has trained as a Wilderness First Responder, Leave No Trace Instructor and American Red Cross Lifeguard. When not riding or guiding bike tours, he does repairs and improvements for Falls City Pub and the Wilderness Voyageurs campus. Among his notable outdoor achievements are rowing The Grand Canyon, winter mountaineering on Mount Ranier and hiking from Death Valley to Mount Whitney. He gets outside as often as possible and his favorite riding is on the steep and scenic back roads of the Laurel Highlands in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Chuck Branchman

Chuck Branchman is from the cool (literally) little town of Frostburg, Maryland. He lives right on the GAP and loves to show guests around his stomping grounds. On top of that, he enjoys traveling around to other locations and guiding tours across the United States. Chuck is very passionate about biking and loves to introduce new folks into this sport and help guests have blast while on tour with him! Apart from biking, he’s also an avid hiker so he’d love to chat all things biking and hiking with anyone. He’s married with 3 adult children, who he adores. “Let’s have a blast on tour together with tons of laughs, peddling and, of course, eating some awesome food!”

Steve Francis

Steve is a semi retired physical therapist who enjoys being outdoors. Along with tandem biking with his wife, you’ll find him paddle boarding on the river or hiking in the woods. He and his wife, who raised their children in Virginia, just recently moved to southern New Jersey to be closer to parents.

Rob Horschman

Rob joined Wilderness Voyageurs in 2022 bringing with him four years of experience leading bike tours in Central America When he is not riding his bike you might run into him on the ski slopes where he works as a ski patroller. Originally from Rochester NY, he has made his home in Atenas, Costa Rica, Asheville NC, and Bethel Maine. Rob has also worked as a paramedic and a high school Spanish teacher. He enjoys playing his saxophone, paddling rivers and lakes and traveling. Rob has two sons, Henry, at college in Charleston SC, and Nico who lives and works in Manhattan.

Pat recently retired and was looking for something fun, active and outside to fill his days and being a bike guide sounded like the perfect fit. Whitewater kayaking and rafting brought Pat to Garrett County, Maryland. He taught whitewater kayaking for about thirty years but has always had an interest in cycling (mountain and road.) Living in the tri state of Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia has given him a whole new appreciation for the joy of riding. The low traffic roads and incredible views here make every mile a new adventure. Pat loves working on bikes and if you saw his basement, you would think you walked into a bike shop. He loves being around people and especially playing outside as a group. You may see him out for a local road ride or floating down a river, hiking on a local trail or riding his mountain bike somewhere around the country. Either way he’s always up for an adventure!

Mark Bortman

Mark first started leading bicycle tours back when he was in college many (many) years ago. Then life happened. Now, after having lived in 5 different countries on 4 different continents, raising 2 terrific children and starting a solar panel installation business, he is able to get back to his passion of riding bikes, meeting new people and seeing great sites. Philadelphia is his home base, but he won’t pass up an opportunity for a house swap, especially if it is somewhere he’s never been.

• Last Minute

Guided Cycling Tours

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Bosnia and herzegovina, czech republic, liechtenstein, netherlands, north macedonia, switzerland, türkiye/turkey, united kingdom, bike & boat, multi-activity, vessels & boats, advanced search, guided cycling trips, experience the highlights of europe on a guided cycling tour.

A guided cycling trip in Europe is ideal for those of you who enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded travellers and appreciate the local knowledge shared by experienced guides.

Your multi-lingual local cycle guide is with you from the time your cycling tour commences until it concludes. They’ll help adjust your bike correctly, provide you with daily trip briefings, and work tirelessly to tailor the trip to your interests while also ensuring that your cycling holiday runs smoothly for everyone.

On a guided cycle tour in Europe you’ll share memories and laughs with enthusiastic cyclists from around the world who also appreciate the benefits of exploring Europe by bike.

Depending on the chosen ride, group sizes generally vary from 6 to 22 people, and somewhat larger on boat based departures. While you are cycling with others, you will still have the flexibility to go off exploring on your own.

Explore Europe with others, on a guided cycling trip.

Find your Guided Cycling trip

Croatia Bike & Sail

Amsterdam to Bruges Bike & Barge - Comfort

Introductory

Bruges to Amsterdam Bike & Barge - Deluxe

Provence Bike & Boat

Introductory to Moderate

Bruges to Amsterdam Bike & Barge - Comfort

Veneto Bike & Boat

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Essential information, popular guided cycling destinations.

Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.

Our aim is to provide you with the most affordable and comprehensive range of European walking and cycling experiences in a style that allows you to explore Europe your way.

Here’s 10 reasons why you should travel with UTracks.

Our human-powered trips minimise your impact on the environment, taking you out of main cities and contributing to a more even distribution of wealth and resources. We are proud of our Responsible Travel policies, which are currently leading the industry in a variety of ways and are continuously being assessed and improved. By supporting local communities, minimising waste, ensuring that the mules we use on our Mont Blanc trips are properly looked after, adhering to a ‘paddock to plate’ philosophy where possible and offsetting air travel, we are doing our bit to minimise the impact of tourism on the countries we travel to.

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Introductory to moderate level, moderate level, moderate to challenging level.

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The exact inclusions and equipment for each of our adventures is listed once you've found the trip you want. Our trips are generally more inclusive than others in the market place in line with our philosophy of minimising 'extra payments' displayed outside of the main trip price as well as out of pocket expenses once you reach your destination.

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So much more than just riding a bike

Discover the UK by bike. Our beautiful country with stunning landscapes, endless coastlines and bursting with ancient history, welcomes you

Travel with the specialists in self-guided UK cycling holidays. Make the most of the UK with a selection of inspiring itineraries that include local, family-run hotel accommodations. We take care of your luggage transfer while you cycle through breath-taking British scenery. With our excellent navigation app all routes are easy to follow. Cycling in the UK is growing, so come back regularly to find new routes & destinations.

Experience the UK bike tour of your dreams. The only thing you will have to do is:

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Look forward to seeing you on the trails,

Team UK Bike Tours

UK Bike Tours is proudly part of European Bike Tours , which has local offices in the countries where we operate ( The Netherlands , Belgium , France , Italy , Spain and the UK ). Our dedicated local experts are specialists in organising self-guided cycling tours. 

Where do you want to explore?

If you’re after an instant holiday feeling, the UK’s islands give just that. Starting with the special journey to get there, island life is usually relaxed and the pace slower. You’ll enjoy a constant sea breeze, beaches, coves, cliffs and stunning ocean vistas. 

Experience the grandeur of Britain's peaks and valleys on a cycling holiday. Whether you’re cycling in the Scottish Highlands or English Lake District , the rolling hills, lush valleys and charming mountain resorts are the perfect backdrop for your trip. 

From the glacial waters and mountains of the Lake District , to the rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands , the United Kingdom is bursting with nature. Discover these beautiful landscapes for yourself on a wonderful cycling holiday.

Explore Britain's scenic coastal cycling paths on an unforgettable bike holiday. Our coastal bike tours take you through a varying landscape of inland heaths and downs , rolling hills, lively fishing ports, friendly seaside towns and of course tumbling coastlines. 

Discover our best selling trips

Expert Team

We are local experts who offer self-guided cycling holidays in the UK covering all levels of ability and all ages from 8-88 years old. We will take care of everything: accommodation, bike rental, itineraries and luggage transport. 

Trip Notes & Maps

All of our trips are carefully designed by our team to provide you with the best cycling routes . We offer easy-to-use, up-to-date route notes and maps. Enjoy cycling on comfortable and peaceful routes!

Sustainability

Cycling is amongst the lowest-impact way to travel. As you explore off-the-beaten-track, you help support local communities and minimise the damage that mass-tourism can make.

We know that taking a self-guided trip for the first time can generate insecurity, but with our app you can follow from your mobile and in an intuitive way the daily routes of your cycling trip. Our mobile app will also show you points of interest along your route. 

Popular tours

• Cotswolds by Bike
• Hadrian's Cycleway
• The Cyclist's Coast to Coast
• Yorkshire Wolds Cycleway
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UK Bike Tours 20 Wild Boar, St Luke's Road Kirkby Stephen CA17 4HT Cumbria United Kingdom [email protected]  +44 (0)1768 807617

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Tour de Staten Island bike tour set for April 21: Here’s what riders need to know

• Updated: Apr. 15, 2024, 11:21 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 14, 2024, 12:06 p.m.

Registration is now open for the 12th Tour de Staten Island, which will take place on April 21. The event, which begins in Stapleton, is organized by Transportation Alternatives. (Staten Island Advance/Annalise Knudson)

• Mike Matteo | [email protected]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Get on your bike and ride! The Tour de Staten Island returns Sunday, April 21.

Organized by Transportation Alternatives, a group that works to make the streets of New York City safer, this ride-at-your-own-pace, non-competitive bike tour will take riders around the landmarks and vistas of Staten Island

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Trek Travel Guide Applications

Become a guide.

Interested in bike tour guide jobs? Click the articles below to read through all the details on what it takes to be a Trek Travel Guide! Apply as soon as possible to get the process started. Our applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and the 2024 season will be here before you know it!

Please note: Our Selection Process is fully virtual and our Training Event will be a combination of virtual learning and a week of in-person training in Madison, Wisconsin or Girona, Spain, depending on an applicant’s continent of residence. Guides will only work in their continent of residence.

Helpful Resources

So you want to be a guide? We can’t wait to hear from you! You can find all the answers to your questions about our bike tour guide jobs by reading the pdfs below. Contact [email protected] if you have questions.

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Life of a guide, job details, requirements to apply, application process, trek travel blog.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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