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Photo Guide of Kentucky Bourbon Country

Three cyclists ride across iron bridge

Bluegrass. Bourbon. Horse Country. Experience the understated beauty of Kentucky Bourbon Country in this day-by-day photo guide taken by our talented guest, Bob Joy.


Day 1: Ride the Legacy Trail and explore downtown Lexington:
Take your first pedal strokes through horse country on the Legacy Trail Bike Path. You’ll wind your way past the Kentucky Horse Park and into rolling fields of beautiful horse farms. Your ride ends at Evans Orchard Cider Mill, where you’ll shuttle back to Lexington to walk around downtown to do some exploring before joining your group in the bar at Lockbox for a fun social hour and dinner.

Bike Tour in Kentucky

Day 2: Tour MeadowCreek Farm and enjoy a tour and bourbon tasting at Limestone Branch Distillery:
Start your day at MeadowCreek Farm, just outside the town of Lebanon. The farm is home to several impeccably pedigreed horses with impressive wins on their resumes and you will have the chance for some up-close views of these amazing creatures! After the tour, your guides will shuttle you to Limestone Branch Distillery. Ride a loop through the hills around Lebanon on quiet country roads before enjoying a tasty picnic lunch. After lunch, you’ll get a guided tour of the distillery and a bourbon tasting.

Bike Tour in Kentucky's Bourbon Country

Day 3: Explore Shaker Village and take a guided hayride tour:
Today you’ll explore the many offerings of the Shaker Village area. The morning’s ride will take you northwest, on roads through open farmland in the Salt River watershed. Upon your return to the village, the rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you like. Choose to ride a bit more, to the small town of Burgin, or set out on a hike through the Preserve which features over 30 miles of trail through native prairies, woodlands, fields, and canebrakes. Or you may opt to take one of the many tours offered daily to learn about the Shakers who lived here around the turn of the nineteenth century. In the late afternoon, you will join your travel companions for a drink and narrated hayride, which will introduce you to the rich history of the village.

Bourbon Trail Bike Trip

Day 4: Ride to Versailles, visit Woodford Reserve, and arrive at the Kentucky Castle:
Ride alongside the Kentucky River and through several of its tributary drainages on the morning ride as you cross unique bridges and pass through forests and small farms. When you arrive in downtown Versailles, you’ll have a number of fresh and delicious lunch options to choose from. Then hop back on your bike for a short ride to Woodford Reserve Distillery, one of Kentucky’s oldest and most highly acclaimed distilleries.

Bourbon Tasting in Kentucky

Day 5: Tour Castle & Key Distillery, enjoy lunch overlooking Glenn’s Creek, and toast your week at the Kentucky Castle
You’ll start your day riding your way to Castle & Key, a small boutique distillery that has recently undergone a careful restoration. The distillery was built in In 1887 by legendary distiller Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. and features a castle, a classical springhouse, and sunken gardens. On a guided walk through the property, you’ll learn about the owners’ from-scratch process of distilling spirits. Enjoy a tasting of their craft then head just down the road to The Stave for lunch. Here, a menu of modern twists on favorite Kentucky dishes awaits while you relax on the patio that overlooks Glenn’s Creek.

Cycling Tour in Kentucky

Day 6: Cycle past the immaculate grounds of the Keeneland Race Track:
Enjoy one final spin through the green pastures of the storied grounds of the Keeneland Race Track, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and once voted the #1 thoroughbred racetrack in North America.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail Bike Tour

Many thanks to our guest, Bob Joy, for contributing the photos for this post!

See the the Kentucky Bourbon Country trip

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Our Top 5 Places to Get Back to Travel

Are you itching to plan an amazing trip this year but having a hard time narrowing down to just one place to go? As travel restrictions continue lifting around the globe and people are getting back to travel, we asked our expert trip designers where they recommend treating yourself to your first trip back. Here are their top 5 picks.


Croatia

Views of the sparkling blue Adriatic are never far away as your ride along the Dalmatian Coast, explore islands and historic towns, and dine on local specialties. This trip is ideal for anyone looking to savor sunshine, beautiful water, luxurious accommodations, and fresh, sea air as you ride.

See our Croatia Trip

Trek Travel Classic Climbs of the Dolomites Bike Tour

The Dolomites

While there are countless incredible destinations in Italy, the Dolomites are a true hidden gem, tucked in the northeast corner of the country. Here, you’ll be enchanted by a warm, inviting culture and awestruck by the jagged mountain peaks and lush alpine valleys. Ideal for riders who love to climb, this beautiful region of Italy is known by Giro d’Italia fans for climbs including Passo Sella, Stelvio, Mortirolo, and Gavia.

“If I could pick just one Trek Travel trip to experience this summer, I would most want to go to the Dolomites for either our Classic Climbs of the Dolomites or Discover Dolomites trip. The quiet of the mountains, the jaw dropping views, the perfect temperature, and the epic riding seem to be the ideal cure after a challenging year. Plus, I can’t think of a better way to start experiencing the world again than being in some of its most beautiful natural landscapes.
-Ioanna, Trip Designer

See Classic Climbs of the Dolomites

See Discover Dolomites

Vermont

There’s no denying that Vermont is spectacularly beautiful in the fall, but if you are looking for a stunning summer destination in North America, this is your spot. From the banks of Lake Champlain to the verdant forests of the Green Mountains, this New England getaway offers riding for all abilities, water sports like kayaking or paddle boarding, and a delicious farm-to-table food scene.

See Vermont Trips

Asheville

You don’t need to travel far to have it all. Settle in to this foodie town and enjoy their impressive craft beer scene after days spent riding the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Southern Appalachians. We love this trip because you get to experience the downtown vibe of Asheville and can still reconnect with nature during your rides.

See Asheville Trips

Provence

This quintessential region in France will transport you to another time, when the rhythm of life was relaxed and sweet. Soak in sweeping views of vineyards and poppy fields as you pedal our favorite local routes including the Gorges de la Nesque. Cap off beautiful rides with wine tastings to experience regional Rhône valley wines.

See Provence Trips

Vacation Rental Recommendations

Infinity pool and lounge chairs at the Belmond hotel

With our A La Carte experiences, you can book your own lodging and still have our team provide routes, bikes, guides, and more. If you are looking to arrange a private vacation rental to share with your travel companions, we’ve got a list of recommendations in some of our favorite destinations. Once you’ve settled on a place, our team can put together routes directly from your doorstep.

Learn about A La Carte

New Mexico Vacation Rentals

Taos Vacation Rentals

Courtesy of AirBnB

Taos

Sleeps: 2-6 Guests
This is a great space to share with one or two other couples as there is a main house that sleeps four guests and a guest house available to sleep an additional two guests. The space is traditional and clean, with lovely southwestern touches. There is a green space in the yard with a hot tub and mountain views. It is one and a half miles from the plaza and one mile from El Monte Sagrado.

New Mexico Vacation Rental

Courtesy of AirBnB

Taos

Sleeps: 1-2 Guests
This cozy little studio features light, breezy décor and a spacious floorplan. While a bit further out of town, it offers a secluded and peaceful retreat for a couple looking to enjoy some time away.

Santa Fe Vacation Rental

Courtesy of AirBnB

Santa Fe

Sleeps: 2-3 Guests
The unique décor in this clean and spacious vacation rental blends southwestern flair with mid-century modern elements. There is parking for two vehicles, and the home is just one mile from downtown, making it an easy bike ride to the Plaza.

Santa Fe Vacation Home

Courtesy of AirBnB

Santa Fe

Sleeps: Up to 10 Guests
This upscale, luxurious vacation home is a great to split amongst groups of up to 10 people. With a stunning pool and outdoor space for entertaining or relaxing, there is no shortage of space to spread out. There are even two beautiful kitchens. This private property is located west of Santa Fe with views of Santa Fe National Forest.


Vermont Vacation Rentals

Stowe Village Vacation Home

Courtesy of AirBnB

Stowe Village

Sleeps: 2-4 Guests
This bright and modern space is cozy yet spacious enough for close friends or family to share. It is ideally located right in the village and in the heart of everything Stowe has to offer.

Stowe Vermont Vacation Rental

Courtesy of AirBnB

Stowe

Sleeps: 4-6 Guests
Just outside of Stowe Village and within walking distance to lots of shops and restaurants, this clean, modern, and spacious unit is ideal for a small group to enjoy together. Guests love the upstairs patio space with grill to cook after a day in the saddle.

Vermont Vacation Rentals

Courtesy of AirBnB

Lake Champlain

Sleeps: 1-2 Guests
This cozy lakeside apartment is situated above the garage of French country home with lovely views of Lake Champlain. It includes access to a private beach that is shared with the main residence. Just a 12-minute drive from your stay, you’ll find quaint, downtown Vergennes.

Burlington Vacation Rental

Courtesy of AirBnB

Burlington

Sleeps: 2-4 Guests
This quaint little home is situated perfectly in the city, close to all Burlington amenities. It is fully furnished and offers a charming yard space to enjoy in the evenings after your days out riding.


Oregon Vacation Rentals

Oregon Vacation Rentals

Courtesy of AirBnB

Bend

Sleeps: 2-6 Guests
This bright and airy home is perfect to share with friends or family for a trip to Bend. It is situated just a block from the cafes, shops, and breweries on Century Boulevard. If you’re looking to bike Mt. Bachelor during your stay, this property has an ideal location to start from.

Bend Vacation Rental

Courtesy of AirBnB

Bend

Sleeps: 4-8 Guests
This riverfront property offers beautiful views of the Deschutes River and a convenient location just a 10-minute walk from downtown. If you’re traveling with a group, this property offers something for everyone from a sauna, to stand up paddle boards, and more.


North Carolina Vacation Rentals

Asheville Vacation Rentals

Courtesy of AirBnB

Asheville

Sleeps: 6-16 Guests
This modern, architectural home is spacious enough to sleep a large group of friends or family for your own cycling private adventure. You can enjoy the rooftop hot tub or walk to some nearby restaurants and Archetype Brewery.

Asheville NC Vacation Rental

Courtesy of TownsProperty.com

Asheville

Sleeps: 2-6 Guests (per unit)
This beautiful, recently constructed building houses two gorgeous rental units, located on the grounds of the historic Patton Parker House. The space was built to match the style of the historic home. There are great views of downtown Asheville and the mountain skyline from the front porch of each unit. The location is great for riding in and out and walkable to the Charlotte Street Business District.

North Carolina Vacation Home

Courtesy of AirBnB

Asheville

Sleeps: 6-16 Guests
Tucked away from the bustle of downtown, this cozy home has an amazing location for riding just off Elk Mt. Scenic Highway, which gives easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The spacious home has a pool and hot tub with epic views.

Asheville North Carolina Vacation Rental

Courtesy of AirBnB

Asheville

Sleeps: 1-2 Guests (per cabin)
This listing is one of three cozy, modern cabins all located on the same property off Shope Creek Road in east Asheville. The Scandinavian inspired getaways offer access to good riding and are located along a quiet paved road that leads to the Shope Creek hiking trails.


Found your perfect vacation home? Now our team can help you with gear, guides, routes, and more to create your own cycling vacation!

Let’s start planning!

See A La Carte options

Travel in 2021

River front with Mountains in the background

People across the globe are itching to get out and explore the world. But what will travel look like in 2021? Our founder and president, Tania Burke, shares what she’s expecting to see in the travel industry this year and talks about how our team is preparing to show you the world by bike in 2021.

Rocky mountain bike tours with Trek Travel

As I reflect on 2020, I want to thank our entire Trek Travel family of guests, guides, and team for their amazing support during challenging times. We were able to provide experiences of a lifetime to many of our guests. I want to thank you for traveling with us as we adapted and ran different but exceptional, safe trips. Looking forward to 2021, there are many reasons to be hopeful and plenty to get excited about. I thought I would share a few of my thoughts on what travel might look like in 2021.

What to expect in 2021

With the vaccine rollout, I am hopeful that more people will have the opportunity to travel again soon. As things improve, we will see a travel boom because of pent up demand. While I don’t know exactly when that is going to happen, I do know Trek Travel will be ready to welcome you when the time is right. We have been carefully following the news and studying industry trends to get a sense of what travel is going to look like in 2021. Here’s what I am anticipating:

Domestic travel will continue to be hugely popular. North American bookings are the best we have ever seen them as many travelers in 2021 feel most comfortable with a trip closer to home. That may mean driving distance for some or a short domestic flight for others. We saw this trend pick up in 2020, and it is continuing through 2021. As a result, we have added new dates and destinations to our North American trips, and have a few more in the works!

International travel is on the horizon. I am optimistic for travel in Europe starting late spring or early summer, depending on vaccinations and the regulations and requirements from each destination. Our guests are really excited to join us on our European trips, so we anticipate they will sell-out quickly, especially in late August through early October. I recommend that guests booking international trips stay flexible to changing their dates or destination if needed. Our cancellation policy offers the ultimate flexibility, so we can take care of our guests no matter how plans change.

Active travel and bike tours will be one of the most popular ways to travel. You may have heard that there is a “bike boom” happening. One of the unexpected results of the pandemic has been more people rediscovering the joy of outdoor adventures, including biking. I believe we’ll see an influx of new guests who are interested in a cycling vacation for the first time. I am excited to show people new to biking how much fun it is to see the world by bike. To accommodate the wide range of rider levels of these new guests, we have trips designed for every type of rider and offer e-bikes on almost all trips for those who want an extra boost. Wide open spaces, fresh air, and destinations off the beaten path will make active travel a hugely popular choice for 2021.

Travel in small groups or on private trips will surge. We saw an uptick in interest for our Private, Semi-Private, and Custom trips starting in 2020, and as more people start to travel in 2021, we have seen growth in small groups interested in private and semi-private trips. Other guests, who still want to enjoy the commraderie of our group trips, have appreciated that we limit the number of guests on our trips to 20 or fewer, and take an average group of 10 people on a typical trip. In 2021, we’re also seeing an interest in private accommodations and trips that stay at just one hotel. Guests have been particularly excited about our glamping trips, which feature private safari-style tents.

Costa Brava Cycling Vacation Bike Tour in Costa Brava, Spain Biking Costa Brava

Preparing to Travel in 2021

When borders open again and travelers can move safely around the globe, we expect a travel boom. The pandemic has really shown us all the value of human connection and social interaction, so we know people are eager to get back out and connect with one another. We also expect the bike boom will turn into bike travel boom, too.

How Trek Travel is Preparing to Show You the World by Bike
Our team has been working diligently over the last year to monitor the latest recommendations on travel safety, so that we can run trips responsibly.

  1. We have enhanced hygiene standards on all of our trips, which includes deep cleaning all equipment every day. Read more about our safety protocols»
  2. We know that in uncertain times, plan A might not always work out, so we want to make it easy to switch dates or destinations if needed. Our cancellation policy has been upgraded to be more flexible than ever. Learn more»
  3. We have always valued small group travel. Trek Travel trips average 10 guests per trip, with a max of 20. Small group travel allows ultimate flexibility for comfortable distance at meals, route and safety talks, and transports.

 
Tips for Travel in 2021

  1. Book before the travel boom – To make sure you have the widest availability for dates and destinations, I’d encourage you to book your trip early. You’re also likely to enjoy better deals the earlier you book!
  2. Get excited – Travel, maybe now more than ever, offers the chance to reset, refresh, and rejuvenate. I think we could all use a little of that after the past year. So get excited about your trip! When you join us on a Trek Travel trip in 2021, you will enjoy amazing rides, great guides, and unforgettable meals that will leave you with lifelong memories.
  3. Travel smart – Before hopping in the car or heading to the airport, I’d suggest making sure you’re up to date on the latest recommended safety measures, so you can travel with peace of mind. Checking out the CDC’s COVID-19 travel information is a great place to start. If you have any questions, please give us a call, too!
  4. Stay flexible – Remember that as the world continues changing, your travel plans might need to change too. I suggest carefully reading cancellation policies when booking any travel (flights, hotels, tours, etc.) in 2021, so that you are familiar with when you have to make a decision to change plans if necessary. It also doesn’t hurt to have a backup plan in place from the start. Maybe you plan a European trip but know exactly where you’re headed in the US if the European borders aren’t open by the time you’re looking to travel.

Asheville bike tours with Trek Travel

Thanks for reading! I hope to see you out there this year! And if you’re not ready to travel yet with us in 2021, contact our trip consultants to join our exclusive, early-access list for 2022 dates by emailing sales@trektravel.com.


Best,
Tania Burke

Explore our destinations

See all trips

Trips Just a Drive Away

cyclists riding on a paved road through a rock wall pass

Whether you live near LA on the West Coast, New York City on the East Coast, or somewhere in between, we have a range of cycling trips less than a half day’s drive from nearly all major cities. Join us to explore our country’s national parks and incredible wildlife or to relax and rejuvenate in charming wine regions and beyond. Explore trips by driving distance from the city nearest you.

Driving trips from major US cities


Driving from New York City, New York

Looking to escape the big apple for a cycling vacation? Drive to a nearby East Coast adventure and step into a whole other world, riding along the shore of Vermont’s Lake Champlain and finding tranquility at a luxurious escape in the Smoky Mountains.


Driving from Los Angeles, California

Discover the beauty of California with us on cycling trips just a drive away in sunny Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, and more. Or venture out a little further to discover desert landscapes of Utah and New Mexico or the lush greenery of Crater Lake in Oregon.


Driving from Dallas, Texas

Head east from Texas on a road trip towards to rolling mountain views in the Appalachian range or head out west to uncover the delights of the American southwest, from delicious cuisine to beautiful desert riding.


Driving from Chicago, Illinois

Leave the windy city behind you as you discover the rolling green hills of Bourbon Country or the unique terrain and wildlife in the Badlands and beyond. No matter which destination you choose, a fun road trip awaits to get there!

Explore the Bourbon Trail on a bike tour through Kentucky with Trek Travel


Driving from Denver, Colorado

Pack up the car and hit to road from Denver to discover the natural beauty of the west. From desert landscapes in New Mexico to the unforgettable Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, explore a range of driveable destinations from Denver.

Glamp in the Badlands and Black Hills with Trek Travel and Under Canvas®


Driving from Seattle, Washington

Discover the Pacific Northwest and beyond with these trips that are just hours from Seattle, but will whisk you worlds away. With the quaint charm of the San Juan Islands or the awe-inspiring beauty of Crater Lake, there’s no shortage of places to discover by bike.

Trek Travel Washington's San Juan Islands Cycling Vacation

A 2020 Biking Bucket List

2020 will be here before we know it, so our team gathered around to set some goals and compile an awesome bucket list of things to try on their bikes in the new year.

Where will two wheels take you in 2020? Check our some of our goals and hopefully find some inspiration for your own riding next year.

Top 5 Reason to Visit Croatia

1. Cycle in a new country every year

Team member Bryna is picking out her next trip currently!

2. Try Bike packing for a weekend

Team member Ashley is planning her first bike-packing trip in 2020.

3. Ride as many miles as the year – 2020

One of our guests inspired team member Dave to try this goal!

4. Try Mountain Biking

Team member Katherine wants to test out some mountain biking trails in Wisconsin (and beyond).

5. Save up for a new bike

Team member Lindsay is looking forward to a new ride in 2020.

6. Choose to bike instead of using a ride share

Cut your ride shares by 20% to save money and the planet. Our team members are trying to choose to bike for errands and rides that are less than 3 miles from home.

7. Explore new parts of your town by bike

Team member Joe has a list of new rides to try in Madison.

8. Tackle the Etape du Tour

Team member Penny wants to head to France for this feat in 2020.

9. Commute to Work By Bike

This is a company-wide goal at Trek Travel for all employees! Not only does it provide great exercise, but it is also environmentally friendly.

10. Compete in a bike race

Team member Emily wants to tackle three Olympic distance triathlons!

11. Join a charity ride

Team member Erika wants to try the Trek 100 for the first time.

12. Pick your 2020 Trek Travel Trip

Tell us where you’re traveling next or share your bucket list ideas on social media by adding #theworldcalls or #trektravel to your posts!

Costa Brava Cycling VacationBike Tour in Costa Brava, SpainBiking Costa Brava

What are you waiting for?

Tackle the Bucket List

 

Trek Travel Expands to New Destinations in 2020 – TravelPulse.com

Trek Travel, a leading active vacation tour operator specializing in bicycling vacations, unveils a globetrotting roster of 2020 Bike Tours that invites adventurers to explore even more of the world, two wheels at a time.

From cycling the famed Tour de Spain course and hiking Merano, Italy’s backcountry to visiting horse farms and sampling world-class bourbon in the Bluegrass region of Central Kentucky, Trek Travel combines access to undiscovered routes with intimate cultural experiences and an unparalleled level of hospitality – – all atop the world’s best Trek bikes.

Read the full article on Travel Pulse »

You Can’t Beat Firsthand Experience

Each year we take to the field to see our trips for ourselves. Our team prides itself on being able to guide you, our guests, to the right trip—whether it be an avid climbing adventure through the Alps or a weekend trip to California Wine Country.

But all that knowledge has to come from somewhere. That’s why we make a point to send our team into the field to gain firsthand experience on a variety of trips. From the food to the rides to the accommodations, our team can provide thoughts and recommendations based on what they’ve seen for themselves.

 

Ashley: Trip Design Coordinator

Where did you go? Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons

Favorite ride of the trip? This is difficult…I only rode twice while I was there, but I have to say each ride was equally beautiful in their own ways. My first ride was an amazing introduction to the sights of the Tetons. My second ride was a bit more challenging with some hill climbs but incredibly worth it to see views of the mountains and wildlife.

What was your favorite trip WOW? The views – although they are always changing, they never end! From the craggy mountain peaks to the turquoise waters, it seems like this place is too good to be true. It doesn’t hurt that the wildlife isn’t too shy either–I saw countless elk, mountain sheep, and two black bears!

Would recommend this trip to guests who…? This trip is a great option for those fellow nature junkies who truly want an iconic experience in a National Park. It is a great mix of cycling the long wildlife corridor roads and hiking the more remote and special places of the parks.

 

Luke: Trip Consultant

Where did you go? Tuscany, Italy

Favorite ride of the trip? Day 5 San Quirico to Montalcino Loop was awesome. Loved it so much I did it twice!

What was your favorite trip WOW? Lunch on Day 4 at Da’Roberto’s.

Would recommend this trip to guests who…? Love beautiful views, appreciate good food and wine, want a few cultural experiences, and enjoy challenging riding.

Sherrie: Trip Consultant

Where did you go? Zion Long Weekend

Favorite ride of the trip? My favorite ride was on the last day from Springdale to the Temple of Sinawava. It was a super peaceful and serene ride.

What was your favorite trip WOW? Riding into Zion National Park past the Checkerboard Mesa and then hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail for some incredible views looking down onto Zion National Park.

Would recommend this trip to guests who…? Are looking for a weekend getaway and want to explore one of America’s great National Parks. This trip is for the adventurous guest who is looking to ride but also hike some throughout the weekend.

 

Essie: Guest Services Coordinator

Where did you go? Asheville to Brevard

Favorite ride of the trip? Day 4, had the most beautiful ride up Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. It is a gorgeous ride with panoramic views and many lookout points. At the summit, you can see Tennessee in the distance.

What was your favorite trip WOW? We had two brewery stops on the trip, and I do not drink beer. The guides surprised me with high-quality gin and tonic, so I was able to have a drink along with everyone else!

Would recommend this trip to guests who…? Anyone who loves great views, and wants to see the beautiful Appalachian mountains.

 

Find your next cycling vacation.

See the trips

 

The Most Adventurous Ways to Experience Colombia

After decades of civil war, a new peace deal has finally opened the country’s remote interior to handy travelers, making Colombia the hottest adventure destination on the planet. You can go fishing for peacock bass—arguably the world’s toughest fighting fish Opens a New Window. —which requires an adventure Opens a New Window. in its own right just to get to them, or prowl for payaras (vampire fish). And there are plenty of other exploits to be had—if you explore Colombia by some untraditional means. See what we mean.

1. Cycling: Coffee Country
For the past five seasons on the cycling circuit Opens a New Window. , Colombia has racked up more Grand Tour podiums (11) than any other country—which speaks not only to the caliber of Colombia’s riders but also to the world-class terrain they have for cycling. And though Colombia is best known for its monstrous climbs, including Letras Pass, the world’s longest road climb at 51.5 miles, there’s far easier terrain in the country’s Coffee Triangle, a rolling green landscape dotted with haciendas and chic guest-houses. The biking culture here is huge, and riding through it is like touring a coffee version of Napa. Even better, an increasing number of operators run tours, including Trek Travel, which launched a six-day trip through the area for 2018.

Read the full article on Men’s Journal»

Trek Travel’s Blackberry Farm Bike Tour

Riding bikes in the great Smoky Mountains is a treat in itself. But finishing each day at Blackberry Farm, the best spot in the country for foothills (or Appalachian) cuisine, makes this trip worth the splurge. Blackberry Farm, located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in eastern Tennessee, has expansive gardens, its own butcher, charcuterie kitchen, and on-site cheesemaker. It’s a glutton’s dream come true, and experiencing the place between bike rides is the ideal way to maximize your calorie intake while on the property. (Side note: I know the man who built the on-site mountain bike trails, and they’re a dream to ride.)

Read on»

Private

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.

Luxury:

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.

Explorer

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

Combined

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

Level 1:

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).

Level 2:

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).

Level 3:

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).

Level 4:

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

Gravel: 3-5 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.

Ride Camp:

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

Pro Race:

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