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Guest Feature: Fabulous Flanders 2024

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!

A group of cyclists riding in Belgium

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.


Private

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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 Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level 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: 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 - Discover:

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