2024 - Trek Travel

Letter from Tania Burke

Posted on May 13, 2024 - 7:05 pm by Trek Travel

Dear Trek Travel Guide Applicant,

I started guiding over 20 years ago because I wanted to do something I truly had a passion for. I love to hear guests tell us their trip was the best trip they have ever been on. I especially love the smiling faces, hearing hearty laughter and watching them enjoying the simple pleasure of being outdoors in the most beautiful places on earth.

Our Guides are the cornerstone of our Business and are solely focused on providing the vacation of a lifetime. They have an intoxicating zest for life. They’re insightful, quirky and, from cartoon designers to engineers and lawyers, they come from a variety of backgrounds that have shaped their charismatic personas. They are magicians, able to transform from grease to grace.

One moment they are wrenching on bikes or appearing exactly when needed with a beverage, and the next they are eloquently explaining the intricate history of each hilltop village or confidently pairing two-star Michelin meals with the perfect local wine. With intimate knowledge of the landscape, they can suggest the best route to match any ability. What sets them apart from the rest is their infinitely accommodating, fun and flexible attitude. They live by the motto Your Day, You Decide and will attempt anything to ensure that every trip is a trip of a lifetime. These are the guide qualities and skills we look for:

Professionals
Excellent Communicators
Seasoned Travelers
Exceptional Bike Mechanics
Natural “Connectors” with all personality types
Master a Foreign Language

Fun, Passionate and a Dynamic Zest for Life
Flexible
Avid Cyclists
Safety-focused
Resourceful and Solution-Oriented
Culturally Aware and Involved

Guide life is unique, rewarding and not an easy job. Please read through our Guide position information to determine if this is the job for you. If the answer is YES we look forward to hearing from you.

Good Luck!

Tania Burke

Top Active Vacation Destinations 2025

Posted on April 30, 2024 - 9:19 am by Trek Travel

Plan your 2025 travel with our guide to the best active vacation destinations. From the scenic trails of Europe to the coastal rides in North America, get ready to explore!

Whether you’re looking to pedal through the quaint villages of Europe, hike along breathtaking coastal trails, or indulge in other cultural activities, our comprehensive guide covers the best destinations for your 2025 vacation. Ready to find the perfect adventure for your taste and fitness level? Dive into our guide and start planning today!

Featured Destinations

Croatia: Explore the Istrian Peninsula

Take a cycling tour through Croatia’s breathtaking Istrian Peninsula. This tour offers a blend of picturesque coastal roads and historical towns, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of the old world mixed with physical activity.

See the tour

A view of a colorful perched village in Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre: Italian Riviera Hiking Adventure

Traverse the iconic trails of the Italian Riviera, from the enchanting village of Portovenere to the vibrant scenes of the Cinque Terre. This hiking tour is ideal for those who want to soak in spectacular coastal views while meandering through colorful villages.

See the tour

A couple pose with their bikes in front of rows of grape vines

California Wine Country: Vineyard Vistas

Pedal at your own pace through the serene vineyards and rolling hills of California’s Wine Country. This tour combines leisurely biking with gourmet experiences, making it a perfect choice for connoisseurs of fine wine and scenic rides.

See the tour

Two cyclists on a gravel roadway with hills in the background

Scotland: Galloway Gravel

Explore the gravel cycling capital of the UK in Galloway and experience miles of scenic forest, riverbanks, and coastal trails This tour is tailored for those who crave adventure beyond the usual roads.

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Amsterdam to Bruges: Tulips and Windmills

Glide through the flat, picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands and Belgium. This relaxed journey is great for first-time cyclists and e-bike enthusiasts wanting to enjoy Europe’s urban and rural beauty.

See the tour

A cyclist overlooking a view of rolling hills

Portugal: Ride Camp Training

Experience the Algarve’s hidden trails and temperate climate, making it an ideal spot for off-season cycling. This trip is a great option for riders looking to improve their skills in a scenic setting.

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Vermont: Autumn Colors

Marvel at Vermont’s stunning autumnal palette from the saddle. This tour captures the essence of New England charm and is best for those who enjoy a fall ride under colorful canopies.

See the tour

Single cyclist on gravel road with mountains in the background

Provence to Girona: The Ultimate Gravel Journey

Push through the historic gravel paths from Provence to the Pyrenees. Adventurers and gravel enthusiasts will find this challenging terrain both invigorating and rewarding.

See the tour

Tuscany: The Heart of Italy

Cycle through the heart of Italian culinary tradition and stunning landscapes. This tour is a dream for foodies and those who wish to experience Tuscany’s renowned culture and cuisine.

See the tour

Cyclist on dirt road riding past a lake and mountain

Black Hills: America’s Gravel Frontier

Adventure through South Dakota’s historic landscapes on gravel paths, from the mysterious Spearfish Canyon to the iconic Mount Rushmore. If you’re looking for a twist on a classic summer vacation, this is your bike tour.

See the tour

Whether you’re cycling, hiking, or gravel biking, these tours are designed to deliver an immersive experience that goes beyond ordinary travel, leaving you with memories and stories to cherish for years to come. Don’t just explore; immerse yourself in the vacation of a lifetime!

Ready to book your next adventure? Start planning today and prepare for an active 2025 filled with new experiences and breathtaking landscapes!

2025 tours

Guest Feature: Fabulous Flanders 2024

Posted on April 26, 2024 - 7:09 am by Trek Travel

Crowd gathered in the street to watch bike race

From conquering the cobbles of Flanders to experiencing the thrill of Paris-Roubaix from the best seats in the house, the 2024 Spring Classics was a journey like no other. Our guest, Patrick Gabrion, wrote about his experience on this year’s Spring Classics bike tour in his blog, Pedal2Page. See the featured posts below!

Part 1: Trek Travel & My New Friends

Right from the start, I realized my cycling trip was going to be special — not even close to anything I’d experienced in the past. The entire time we were based at Hotel Harmony in Ghent, one of Belgium’s oldest cities and the historic capital of Flanders. The location alone certainly set the tone.

Read now

A landscape shot of cobbles in Belgium with a windmill in the background

Part 2: Cobbles & Climbs

While intimidating in one sense, these bone-jarring stones were a major reason for deciding to embark on this Trek Travel cycling vacation. Like a moth to a flame, I just needed to experience them for myself — no matter the possible danger.

Read now

A group of people watching the Tour of Flanders 2024

Part 3: Tour of Flanders

It’s one of the five Monuments, the most prestigious single-day races in men’s professional cycling. I’ve viewed it countless times on television, but now I was actually there in person for the first time.

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The team bus for the Lidl-Trek Pro Racing Team at the 2024 Spring Classics

Part 4: Trip Highlights

There were three other highlights that truly elevated my whole five-day cycling vacation, increasing the “wow” factor to an even loftier level. I’m totally convinced that these particular occasions were additional examples of why Trek Travel earns top marks for its guest services and hospitality.

Read now

Part 5: The Belgium Experience

Where does one begin when summarizing such a fantastic five-day cycling experience? It is something I’ve attempted to accomplish through my previous four blog postings — hopefully, with some success. But to bring things to a close, I’d like to offer a few final thoughts.

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Riding Towards a Greener Future: Trek Travel’s Sustainability Initiatives with ecollective

Posted on April 19, 2024 - 7:27 pm by Trek Travel

Protecting our planet for future generations to explore and enjoy is more than a responsibility—it’s a core value of our business. Driven by this, we actively seek opportunities to minimize our environmental footprint, both in our offices and on our trips around the globe. We continually take proactive steps to ensure that our vacations of a lifetime are as gentle on the planet as they are memorable for our travelers. To advance our sustainability efforts, we have partnered with ecollective, a leader in environmental impact strategies. This collaboration is centered on a strategy to assess and reduce carbon emissions across our operations. Earlier this year, we conducted a comprehensive greenhouse gas inventory for 2023, which is a critical step towards understanding and mitigating our environmental impact. We are excited to share the results of this inventory soon, along with our reduction goals for 2024.

As we move forward with our sustainability strategy, we want to highlight three current initiatives that underscore our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint. These steps are part of a broader effort to integrate sustainability into every aspect of our travel experiences, from where you stay to how you explore.

Ecollective Hotel Survey

Understanding the environmental impact of our on-trip accommodations is crucial. That’s why we’re introducing a comprehensive Hotel Survey in collaboration with ecollective. This initiative evaluates our hotel partners based on their carbon emissions and energy usage, helping us rank our accommodations, empower and educate our hotel partners, and guide guests in making sustainable travel choices. More information will be available soon.

Educating Through Carbon Labeling

Knowledge is power, and empowering our guests to make informed choices is a step towards a more sustainable future. Rolling out in 2026, our trip itineraries will feature carbon labeling, providing clear, accessible information about the carbon impact of each journey. This transparency will allows travelers to understand their environmental impact and choose adventures that align with their values. It will also guide our trip designers in creating adventures with smaller carbon footprints.

Recycling with Liberty Tire Recycling

Recognizing that sustainability initiatives extend beyond reducing carbon emissions, we are also excited to announce a new tube and tire recycling program for our US-based trips, in partnership with Liberty Tire Recycling. This initiative ensures that these consumable components of your biking equipment are recycled properly–reducing landfill waste, and promoting the use of recycled materials in new products.

Discover the Best Hiking Tours in Europe

Posted on March 27, 2024 - 8:39 am by Trek Travel

Europe’s diverse landscapes offer an array of breathtaking vistas, from the rugged coastlines of Italy to the serene highlands of Scotland, making it a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Our curated list explores some of the best hiking tours across this varied continent, taking you through Italy’s Cinque Terre, the wilds of Scotland, the charming trails of Portugal, and the emerald landscapes of Ireland.

Cinque Terre: Italy’s Coastal Splendor

Set out on an exploration of Cinque Terre, where you’ll discover five stunning villages nestled along the Italian Riviera. Known for its steep terraces, vibrant houses, and stunning sea views, the Cinque Terre hiking tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Hikers can enjoy the Mediterranean breeze while exploring vineyards, olive groves, and local cuisine that makes Cinque Terre a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Scotland: Into the Wild Highlands

Scotland’s hiking tour invites adventurers into the heart of its iconic highlands. Step into a world where every glen and loch has a legend, from the hidden trails of Edinburgh to the coastal allure of St Andrews, and the breathtaking expanses of the Cairngorms National Park. Experience the warmth of Highland hospitality as you uncover Scotland’s natural wonders and historical paths.

The south coast of Portugal, with the Mediterranean Sea and orange cliffs

Portugal: Coastal Trails and Country Paths

Discover the soul of Portugal on a hiking tour designed to inspire. Traverse from the tranquil beauty of Alentejo to the awe-inspiring cliffs of the Rota Vicentina. Along the way, the historic towns of Lagos and Sagres offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past, while the warm embrace of local culture enriches your journey. After a day on the trail, relax in distinctive accommodations that are as unique as the landscapes you’re exploring.

Ireland: A Journey Through the Emerald Isle

This Ireland hiking tour is a magical journey through landscapes that seem to spring from myth. Travel the west coast from the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher to the spirited town of Dingle. Experience the magic of Ireland’s natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant culture. With unique lodging and exquisite local cuisine, your journey through Ireland will be as memorable as the tales that fill its air.

Europe’s hiking tours offer something for everyone, whether you’re seeking coastal views, mountain adventures, or cultural experiences. Each tour promises unforgettable landscapes, rich history, and the chance to connect with nature in some of the continent’s most iconic destinations. So lace up your hiking boots and prepare to step into adventure.

Hiking + Walking Tours

Trek Travel Unveils New Hiking and Walking Tours

Posted on March 27, 2024 - 6:55 am by Trek Travel

For Immediate Release March 27, 2024 (Madison, WI): After 20+ years of recognition as a top cycling tour operator, Trek Travel is thrilled to announce the launch of its new Hiking and Walking Tours, commencing in the Fall of 2024. Renowned for creating unforgettable cycling vacations, Trek Travel has been celebrated by Travel and Leisure as a top global tour operator. This expertise and passion for adventure are now being extended to include hiking and walking tours, offering customers a new way to see the world with Trek Travel.

Trek Travel’s inaugural launch features four extraordinary destinations, with plans to unveil additional itineraries later this year. Each destination promises a unique experience for all outdoor enthusiasts:

Cinque Terre Hiking and Walking Tour: Experience Italy’s stunning Ligurian Coast, from Portovenere through Cinque Terre to Santa Margherita, with gourmet meals and luxurious boutique hotel stays. Learn More.

Scotland Hiking and Walking Tour: Discover Edinburgh’s hidden trails, the coastal charm of St Andrews, and the Cairngorms National Park’s natural beauty, all while enjoying Highland hospitality. Learn More.

Portugal Hiking and Walking Tour: Journey through the Alentejo region and along the Rota Vicentina, exploring the history and beauty of Lagos and Sagres, complemented by distinctive accommodations. Le arn More.

Ireland Hiking and Walking Tour: Traverse the west coast from the Cliffs of Moher to Dingle, experiencing Ireland’s natural wonders, history, and culture, with unique lodging and cuisine. Learn Mor e.

Tania Burke, president of Trek Travel, stated, “For the past 20 years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to perfecting your cycling vacations of a lifetime. We’re bringing that same magic, expertise, hospitality, and commitment to our new adventure hiking and walking tours. As we step into this new journey, you can have confidence in our continued focus on providing a vacation of a lifetime, no matter how you travel with us.”

Trek Travel’s Hiking and Walking Tours are imbued with the same qualities that have made their cycling vacations legendary – exceptional guides, luxury accommodations, expertly curated itineraries, unmatched flexibility, and unparalleled hospitality.

As Trek Travel steps into this new adventure, they carry with them two decades of experience in crafting travel experiences that are not just vacations but trips filled with lifelong memories. Join Trek Travel on their Hiking and Walking Tours to explore the world in a new way, where every step is a moment worth remembering.

For more information and to join these incredible journeys, visit Trek Travel’s website: trektravel.com

Gravel Cycling Tips for Beginners

Posted on February 20, 2024 - 5:38 pm by Trek Travel

Two cyclists in front of a lake with sailboats

Starting your first gravel bike ride opens the door to the exciting journey into a world where adventure, exploration, and cycling meet. To help beginners navigate this new terrain, here are essential tips from our friend the Gravel Cyclist, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable introduction to gravel cycling.

Cyclists riding through Big Water of Fleet Viaduct with 70 foot high granite arches

Master Clipping into the Pedals

Ensuring your feet stay securely attached to the pedals over bumpy terrain is crucial for when you are riding gravel. Practice clipping into the pedals in a safe, controlled environment to build confidence and muscle memory before your trip. We guarantee this will make your rides smoother and more enjoyable.

Two gravel cyclists and their dirty socks.

Choosing the Right Shoes

Footwear can make a significant difference in your gravel riding experience. The best shoes for gravel cycling are designed for off-road use and feature recessed cleats. They provide stability over mixed terrain and comfort if you need to hike-a-bike, enhancing your overall ride experience. See our top picks for gravel biking shoes at trekbikes.com

Woman riding gravel on the Girona Gravel bike tour

Climbing, Descending, and Cornering

Navigating the loose and uneven surfaces of gravel roads requires adept skills in climbing, descending, and cornering. Techniques like staying seated during climbs to maintain traction, braking prior to turns, and adopting a lower center of gravity on descents are vital for handling the challenges of gravel riding.

Navigating Dynamic Conditions

Gravel roads are known for their ever-changing conditions. Developing solid gravel bike handling skills is essential for safely navigating through rough patches, sand, and other obstacles you’ll encounter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gravel cycling experience.

Staying on the Right Side of the Road

Even though traffic is often minimal on gravel roads, it can appear when you least expect it, so safe riding practices remain a top priority. Keep to the right side of the road at all times, but particularly when approaching blind corners and the crest of a hill.

Understanding the Effort Required

Gravel cycling is more physically demanding than riding on paved roads. Recognizing that gravel rides require about 25% more effort and time compared to similar distances on pavement is important for planning and enjoying your gravel cycling adventures.

Gravel cycling for beginners is an exhilarating adventure that blends the physical challenge of cycling with the beauty of off-the-beaten-path exploration. By focusing on these key tips and preparing adequately, you’ll not only enhance your gravel cycling skills but also ensure each ride is both safe and enjoyable. Welcome to the diverse and captivating world of gravel cycling, where every ride invites discovery and adventure.

Gravel bike tours

The Top Romantic Bike Tours to Explore in 2024

Posted on February 8, 2024 - 6:51 pm by Trek Travel

A bottle of champagne on a table on the balcony of a room at the hotel La Gavina

In a world brimming with breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems, what could be more enchanting than exploring it all from the seat of a bicycle? We have carefully selected a collection of romantic bike tours that promise not just unforgettable journeys, but experiences that deepen bonds and spark flames of adventure in everyone.

Mallorca Island

Set sail for romance on the idyllic shores of Mallorca, where azure waters meet golden beaches and rugged mountains embrace quaint villages. This Mediterranean paradise serves as the perfect backdrop for couples seeking both serenity and adventure on their journey together. Michelle, a delighted guest, reflects on her experience: “Our Trek Travel experience in Mallorca exceeded all expectations, providing the perfect setting for our honeymoon. It was truly unforgettable.” This tour stands out as an exemplary choice for those celebrating love, offering a harmonious blend of Mallorca’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

two cyclists standing in the hills of Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Barbara Wine Country

Imagine toasting to your love amidst the rolling vineyards of Santa Barbara, a region synonymous with fine wine and breathtaking scenery. This tour offers a harmonious blend of leisurely rides through wine country, gourmet dining experiences, and moments of relaxation at luxurious accommodations. Cathy, who celebrated her anniversary on this trip, shares, “It was very memorable! The fun rides, great food, and new friendships made our anniversary celebration special.” This tour encapsulates the essence of romance, blending adventure with the intimate pleasures of wine country life.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, with its storybook châteaux and verdant vineyards, offers a mesmerizing backdrop for a romantic cycling adventure. This tour invites couples to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region, with leisurely rides that allow for ample exploration and discovery. The enchanting landscapes, combined with exclusive wine tastings and elegant dining, make the Loire Valley Wine Country tour a quintessential choice for couples seeking a blend of romance and cultural enrichment.

two people making a toast with their wine glasses as they overlook wine country in California

California Wine Country

Celebrate your love in the iconic California Wine Country, where every turn reveals stunning vistas and every stop offers a taste of the region’s renowned wines. Betsy, commemorating her 35th wedding anniversary, recalls, “The Napa luxury tour was a blissful blend of challenge and comfort, revealing the hidden treasures of California wine country.” This tour is a tribute to couples seeking an immersive experience in the lap of luxury, with challenging rides, exquisite wine tastings, and stays in luxurious accommodations.

Puente Nuevo Ronda Trek Travel Bike Tour

Andalucia

Dive into the heart of Spanish romance in Andalucia, where the spirit of adventure meets the warmth of local culture. This tour is a celebration of Andalucia’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and passionate traditions, including the mesmerizing Flamenco performance that embodies the essence of Spanish romance. Joaquin, a guest, was captivated, saying, “The Flamenco spectacle was so enchanting.” Andalucia offers a deeply romantic and culturally rich experience, perfect for couples seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.

Ready to set off on a romantic journey? Discover these destinations and more with Trek Travel, where every tour is meticulously crafted with love, adventure, and unforgettable experiences in mind.

See all trips

Featured Destinations

Croatia: Explore the Istrian Peninsula

Cinque Terre: Italian Riviera Hiking Adventure

California Wine Country: Vineyard Vistas

Scotland: Galloway Gravel

Amsterdam to Bruges: Tulips and Windmills

Portugal: Ride Camp Training

Vermont: Autumn Colors

Provence to Girona: The Ultimate Gravel Journey

Tuscany: The Heart of Italy

Black Hills: America’s Gravel Frontier

Part 1: Trek Travel & My New Friends

Part 2: Cobbles & Climbs

Part 3: Tour of Flanders

Part 4: Trip Highlights

Part 5: The Belgium Experience

Ecollective Hotel Survey

Educating Through Carbon Labeling

Recycling with Liberty Tire Recycling

Cinque Terre: Italy’s Coastal Splendor

Scotland: Into the Wild Highlands

Portugal: Coastal Trails and Country Paths

Ireland: A Journey Through the Emerald Isle

Master Clipping into the Pedals

Choosing the Right Shoes

Climbing, Descending, and Cornering

Navigating Dynamic Conditions

Staying on the Right Side of the Road

Understanding the Effort Required

Mallorca Island

Santa Barbara Wine Country

Loire Valley

California Wine Country

Andalucia

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