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10 Best Bike Tours for 2022

Posted on May 3, 2022 - 11:15 am by keith_ritter

view of Bryce and Zion canyons from above

Many people are looking at 2022 as the chance to get back to traveling. Because we know times are still uncertain, our flexible cancellation policy and no-risk deposit make it easy to book a trip now but change plans later if necessary. To help inspire your travel planning, we’ve rounded up some of our best bike tours for 2022, which continue to feature our enhanced safety protocols so you can travel with peace of mind. Our recommended trips include destinations that are selling out fast, some new options we can’t wait to explore, and some of our all-time favorite places to see by bike.

Where will you ride with us in 2022?

Acadia

Rider Level: 1 / 2 | Travel: June & July

Bike Mount Desert Island, home to Acadia National Park, and discover Rockefeller’s serene carriage roads and the idyllic viewpoints like Jordan Pond along the way. You’ll admire Acadia from the water as you sail on a historic schooner and enjoy East Coast staples such as Maine lobster and treats full of fresh blueberries.

Andalucia

Rider Level: 3 / 4 | Travel: Sept & Oct

Ride around the limestone formations and in the unspoiled forested terrain of the Natural Parks of Sierra de Grazelema and experience the cultural and historical crossroads of Southern Spain between Granada and Ronda. Unmistakable flavors, sounds, and incredible cycling await you.

Croatia

Rider Level: 2/3 | Travel: July, Aug, Sept, & Oct

Savor views of the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea as you ride along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Combine the unforgettable riding with our world-class, luxury accommodations, added excursions, and local dining and you’re sure to enjoy the cycling vacation of a lifetime here.

Kentucky Bourbon Country

Rider Level: 2/3 | Travel: Aug & Sept

Endless miles of shaded country roads lead you past world-class horse farms and straight to fine bourbon tastings. You will flow from the bustle of downtown Lexington to quiet, starlit lights at a well-preserved historic Shaker village, on to your own room in a castle near Versailles.

New Mexico

Rider Level: 3 | Travel: June, Sept, & Oct

Discover The Land of Enchantment as we explore Santa Fe and Taos. During the trip through America’s Southwest, we’ll pass through four different Native American Pueblos and ride along a segment of the famed High Road to Taos.

Norway

Rider Level: 3 | Travel: June, July, & Aug

Pedal against the icy blue backdrop of the gargantuan Nigardsbreen and Bergset glaciers as we uncover this undiscovered cycling destination. We’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the fjords and unforgettable Nordic cuisine.

Portland to Bozeman

Rider Level: 4 | Travel: Aug

Get ready for an avid cycling adventure from the Pacific Northwest to the Rocky Mountains and Big Sky Country. You will begin in Portland and head eastward through the Columbia River Gorge, along the Lewis and Clark Highway, and over the Rockies at Lolo Pass before finally meandering to Bozeman.

Puglia

Rider Level: 2 | Travel: Sept & Oct

The “heel of Italy’s boot” will captivate you with its dramatic beaches and quiet roads lined by majestic olive trees. Indulge yourself as you enjoy private olive oil and wine tastings, private historic walking tours, delicious cuisine, and luxurious accommodations.

Under Canvas

Rider Level: 2/3 | Travel: June, July, & Aug

Join us in the Black Hills of South Dakota or Glacier National Park to glamp in luxury safari-style tents, ride through stunning scenery, and search for wildlife. We’ve partnered with Under Canvas to offer a unique chance to sleep under the stars and explore America’s beautiful national parks.

Utah

Rider Level: 1 or 3 | Travel: June, Sept, Oct, & Nov

Whether you want a weekend getaway or a week-long trip, our Utah bike tours will show you the beauty of the American Southwest. From Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon, ride past stunning red rock formations, hike to photo-worthy views, and dine on delicious cuisine.

Didn’t see the dates you were looking for? With our custom and a la carte options, you can enjoy our best trips on your schedule. Some destinations also include self-guided trips, which offer even more flexibility to enjoy the trip at your pace.

See all 2022 trips

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How to Travel Sustainably

Posted on April 22, 2022 - 5:00 am by keith_ritter

In honor of Earth Day, we are looking at ways that we can all travel a little more sustainably to make sure the planet is beautiful for future generations to explore.

As you prepare to travel this year, now is a great time to learn about ways to travel sustainably, so that you can plan for your next excursion with the environment in mind. Informed decisions and actions are the best way each of us can make a difference. No single person can change the world by themselves, but if everyone as individuals make small changes, then a lot can be achieved as a collective to protect our planet.

Here are some of our top recommendations for how to travel sustainably.

Trek Travel Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Park Bike Tour

Consider transportation to your destination

Transport is a large contributor to global emissions, so well-planned travel, especially if going abroad, can drastically reduce the impact on the environment.

If you are planning a domestic trip, ask yourself if you can use public transportation most or part of the way there. If you are traveling with friends or family, can you carpool in one vehicle? Not only is this better for the planet, it will also save costs on gas and parking!

International travel will almost always involve airplanes, so here are a few tips that can make a difference when flying.

● Fly with as few stops as possible, this means fewer emissions emitted through take-off and landing when more fuel is used. It also means you’ll get to your destination quicker, which is a win-win!
● A mix of flights and public transport like trains will also reduce emissions.
● Travel with less luggage because this reduces the overall plane weight and fuel burnt. An added bonus for you, packing light can also save you money on baggage fees!
● Some airlines offer a carbon offset for a small extra fee (usually the cost of a coffee), where the airline commits to helping reduce emissions in some form, such as planting trees. If your airline doesn’t offer the option, you can carbon offset your flight on your own! There are multiple websites that will help you calculate your impact and offer ways to offset through donations to sustainable initiatives.

Book your vacation with companies that have sustainable practices in place

Sustainable practices can be incorporated in many different ways. The aim is to maintain the qualities of the area you are visiting, both culturally and environmentally. Sustainable tour operators like Trek Travel will look to use eco-friendly hotels, locally run restaurants, and experiences that make the tour interesting and beneficial for both the traveler and the locals.

If you aren’t booking with a tour group, make sure to conduct your own research to see if the hotels you are considering for your trip have practices in place to help protect the planet. The EPA has resources to help find green hotels. And when you choose restaurants, look for places that source locally because this reduce the emissions needed to transport food.

Whether booking with a tour operator or on your own, consider traveling outside of peak vacation time as this reduces foot traffic that can damage a local environment.

Sustainable actions while on holiday.

When it comes to travel, sustainability is not just related to protecting the environment but also protecting local culture and traditions. Traveling around your destination by public transport, on foot, or even better, by bicycle is a great way to see the area, connect with locals, and minimize your environmental impact. Here are other actions you can take on your trip to make a difference:

● When possible, opt-out of having housekeeping clean your room daily.
● Pay attention to your electricity use. Always turn off lights and unplug your charging items before leaving the room or as soon as the items are done charging.
● Pack a small, lightweight reusable bag with you to skip plastic bags if you decide to shop at local markets or boutiques. This is easy to pack, and it’ll come in handy more than you’d think!
● Bring your own water bottle and coffee cup to avoid needing the plastic water bottles in the hotel fridge or a disposable coffee cup at breakfast.
● Purchasing locally-made souvenirs make great authentic gifts for friends and family back home, while also supporting the community you are visiting for generations to come!

These are just a few tips on how to travel sustainably. They may be small changes but added up can have a big impact on protecting the environment and unique culture around the world, enabling generations to continue exploring!

Trek Travel has launched a series of green initiatives in our office and on our trips.

Learn more

All the Small Things

Posted on April 20, 2022 - 9:00 am by keith_ritter

A Trek Travel guide lifting bikes from the Trek Travel van.

Sometimes magic comes in unexpected packages, like not having to worry about bringing pedals or a helmet (we’ve got you covered), or in the photos we collect and share with you after every vacation. It’s all part of our relentless, driven mission to make you smile from start to finish. Read on for the 10 little things that help make your bike tour the cycling vacation of a lifetime.

Exceptional Guides

They’re more than just experts in riding, they’re Trek Travel Certified mechanics and trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won’t believe. Think of them as your personal concierge, there to provide what you need before you even know you need it.

Guaranteed to run

Trips that are marked guaranteed are just that—guaranteed to run. If you’re going, we’re going. For trips of one or two guests, pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run.

Bike fit

Whether it’s the all-new, smooth and race-ready Trek Domane with electronic shifting and disc brakes or the fan-favorite Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, you can be sure your bike fit will be dialed before the first ride.

Free Wifi

Sometimes part of vacation is going off the grid, but in those moments when you want to plug back in it should be easy and hassle free. That’s why we take care of wifi for every guest in each hotel we visit.

Trek Bike Discount and a Digital Photo Album

Once you return home, continue your cycling journey with a new Trek bike and relive your favorite moments with a trip-specific digital photo album.

Pedals

We all know packing for a vacation can burst the seams on your favorite piece of luggage, but now you can lighten the load. Shimano R540 road pedals or Shimano M520 mountain pedals are included on every trip, so go ahead and leave yours at home.

Safety First

Did you know that daytime lights can reduce the risk of accidents by up to 50%? That’s why we include a Bontrager Ion head light and the Flare daytime tail-light on all our bikes and all our trips, so you can enjoy the scenery without the worry.

Jerseys

Look sharp on and off the bike. With most trips, you’ll receive a complimentary Trek Travel jersey perfect for storing snacks and meant to keep you comfortable no matter the terrain.

Advanced and Pre-loaded Routes

Whether you’re looking to really put in the miles or to go on a more leisurely spin, each day’s routes will be pre-loaded onto your Garmin so you never have to wonder, “Was that my turn back there?” Or if you prefer to bring your own device we’ve teamed with RideWithGPS to provide downloadable GPS routes ahead of time for all our trips so you can get the lay of the land before you even leave.

Team Access

As the official partner of Lidl-Trek, our trips are the best the industry has to offer, with VIP access and exclusive viewing spots. Watch the big attacks, meet the pros and drink in the drama. TV just can’t capture the electricity of a race. Luckily, that’s what we’re here for.

Trek Travel’s History at The Tour de France

Posted on February 25, 2022 - 10:00 am by keith_ritter

Over the course of nearly two decades, we have taken hundreds of guests to the Tour de France to experience epic race moments in person. We learned a lot along the way and made countless incredible memories.

Always Evolving

Each year, the changing route of the Tour de France means that we’ll incorporate different rides, climbs, and destinations into our trips. No two years will ever be quite the same! Luckily, since we have been running Tour de France trips for nearly two decades, we have in-depth regional knowledge of all the mountain areas, climbs, and key locations to view the race. We also have great relationships with hotels in all the right spots, ensuring we can offer our guests the best handpicked hotels with close proximity to the race action and featured climbs.

We have always been able to offer incredible experiences year after year, but in 2011, Trek Travel became an official Tour Operator of the Tour de France, a designation that means we can offer our guests privileged access to the great moments of the race, including access to VIP areas at the stage starts, finishes, and along the racecourse. Some trips also include opportunities to ride on the racecourse ahead of the pros when the road is closed to the general public. Finally, we can include opportunities to ride across the finish line and take photos on the official podium.

Over the years, we have also developed a close relationship with Team Trek-Segafredo, enabling our guests to go behind the scenes to see how a pro team lives and works during a grand tour. Opportunities may include meet and greets with team members and autographs or photos with the pros, chats with team mechanics as they prep the next day’s bikes, guided tours of the team bus, watching the riders warm up in the team bus area of stage start, and, occasionally, staying in the same hotel as the team.

Epic Race Moments

Each and every Tour de France trip has the possibility for epic adventure and the chance to witness historic race moments. From famous accents up climbs like Mont Ventoux and Alpe d’Huez to thrilling finishes in Paris, our guests have seen cycling history made, time and time again. One particularly awesome moment for Trek Travel guests was when Jens Voigt waived to them at Chalet Renard during the middle of his race. Another awesome memory is watching Andy Schleck win on Galibier from a VIP viewing tent. Sometimes you might find a celebrity or two present at our viewings but the best memories of the Tour de France are not only these epic race moments but also the time spent getting to know your guides and fellow guests and making these lifelong friendships.

Introducing the new Tour de France Femmes

This year Trek Travel brings you the all-new women’s Tour de France with our Tour de Femmes Ultimate VIP Team and Race Access bike tour, where you will witness the Trek Segafredo Women’s team battle for the yellow jersey in Alsace.

“This is going to be a historic day for the cycling world,” said Tania Burke, CEO of Trek Travel. “As a female-owned business, it’s important that Trek Travel supports women in our sport. We are so grateful for our relationship with the Trek Segafredo Women’s Team as it gives our guests the exclusive opportunity to experience the race up close and personal with women’s pro racing biggest stars. This will be an unforgettable and inspiring trip for our guests.”

Here you will revel in the excitement of having ultimate access, getting you behind the scenes with the team and in front of the action at our premium stage viewings. With Official VIP race access passes, you’ll get to ride over the finish line and see the finale mountaintop finish of Stage 8 on the formidable Super Planche des Belles Filles and bear witness to the departure of Stage 6 in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges. Of course, it wouldn’t be a full Trek Travel experience if it did not include all of our signature details. You’ll stay in one handpicked, 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel in the beautiful historic center of Colmar, la belle ville of Alsace, where you’ll be perfectly positioned to enjoy all the excitement of the race and the best riding in the region. The Tour de France Femmes is truly history, or herstory, in the making.

Trek Travel at the Etape du Tour

Trek Travel and our President, Tania Burke, are no strangers to the Etape du Tour. This incredible citizens’ ride allows amateur riders to ride a full stage of the Tour de France just days from the pros. Tania first rode the Etape back in 2006, and has ridden it 14 times since. Likewise, our team of guides and trip designers know exactly what it takes to plan the perfect trip to experience the Etape.

Join us at the Tour de France

See Trips

Our Top 6 Reasons for Travel Protection

Posted on February 1, 2022 - 1:13 pm by keith_ritter

A group of gravel cyclists pose in front of a rolling landscape

Many travelers think their health insurance or free credit card insurance will completely cover their out of pocket expenses. However, that’s often not the case. Here are our Top 6 Reasons to consider travel protection for your next cycling vacation.

1. You’re Embarking on an Active Adventure

As an active traveler, you’re likely to be active prior to your trip. What happens if you sprain an ankle running, break a leg skiing, or have an accident however minor before your trip that prohibits you from riding a bike? The good news is, your trip cost will likely be covered by travel protection.

2. Healthcare Overseas

We recommend checking with your insurance provider to see if you’ll be covered while traveling overseas. If an injury or sickness happens while you’re traveling, it’s good to know you’ll be covered. In addition to your regular health insurance, travel protection typically offers coverage for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

3. Travel Assistance Services

If something goes wrong during your travels, your trip insurance will provide 24/7 travel assistance service. This service will provide assistance with medical emergencies, lost passports, tickets, and more.

4. Family Trouble

It can be difficult to plan vacations with ill or elderly family members at home. Some policies may even cover family members that are not part of your travel plans.

5. Baggage Protection

No one likes a lost bag. While you wait for your luggage to arrive, trip insurance will pay for the items you’ll need in the meantime. It’s great to know that inconvenience of losing your bag will not cost you more money.

6. Peace of Mind

Traveling can be stressful, and cancelling a vacation can be a nightmare. Having travel protection gives you the peace of mind to know that if something does come up, you will likely be covered.

Please call us at 866-464-8735 to discuss the benefits of trip insurance for your existing or upcoming trip, and learn more about our travel protection plan.

Travel protection

Trek Travel with AutoCamp in Palm Springs & Joshua Tree and California Wine Country

Posted on January 20, 2022 - 7:22 am by keith_ritter

Join Trek Travel and AutoCamp in Palm Springs & Joshua Tree and California Wine Country for a unique experience like nothing else.

Always Evolving

If you haven’t taken a look at our portfolio of vacations lately, it’s time to do some clicking. Trek Travel is always looking for new ways to wow our guests and get them closer to the world-class experiences they’ve come to love. While we already go to incredible destinations around the world such as Japan, Norway, and Chile, we strive to find exciting new ways to travel closer to home, as well.

That’s why we’re overjoyed to announce our partnership with AutoCamp, a unique and acclaimed provider of experiential travel featuring custom Airstream suites, to bring our guests two completely new options in Palm Springs & Joshua Tree and California Wine Country. Even if you’ve seen these two exceptional standouts in the Trek Travel portfolio before, you haven’t seen them like this. With a combination of exceptional rides, food, friends, wow moments, and the addition of mid-century modern elegance with private accommodations in a luxury Airstream, this is the epitome of boutique camping. Whether it’s relaxing by the campfire as the sun sets under a canopy of towering redwoods in the Russian River Valley or rising to greet the day in the middle of the Mojave desert, exploring Joshua Tree National Park before heading to the chic town of Palm Springs, these are two trips you won’t want to miss.

Palm Springs & Joshua Tree AutoCamp Bike Tour

A mid-century oasis in the desert

AutoCamp’s newest offering in Joshua Tree gets you closer to the heart and soul of the Mojave Desert and the famed Joshua Tree National Park. The property was mindfully designed for minimal impact on the surroundings, incorporating ecological water usage, solar power, and dark sky-compliant lighting to enhance the clear view of the stars. With a seasonally heated pool, outdoor bar, and plenty of opportunities to get cozy around a campfire, AutoCamp Joshua Tree is the new premier outdoor spot in the desert.
As you walk into your Airstream suite, you’ll rethink what you know about camping. From the bedroom with luxury linens on top of a queen-sized bed, to the spa-inspired bathroom with a walk-in shower and vanity sink, each aspect of the Airstream is thoughtfully designed.
After an amazing ride through Joshua Tree National Park and the expansive views of the Coachella Valley, cool off in the pool and sip a refreshing cocktail at the poolside bar. In the evening you can enjoy the majesty of a desert night around the community fireplaces, as you reflect on the day’s events.

See Trip

California Wine Country AutoCamp Bike Tour

The richer side of Wine Country

You may already know the famed Napa and Sonoma varietals of California Zin and Chardonnay, but the Russian River Valley is a hidden gem amongst the giants. Here, 800 acres of famed California redwoods give way to a different type of grape that’s more sumptuous, dark, and robust. You’ll sip and savor them as you pedal through the valley to the Pacific coast, and visit historic wineries, including the Soda Rock Winery, whose mossy stone walls have been standing since 1869.
AutoCamp’s Russian River Valley location will have you camping underneath the majestic Sonoma redwoods. Your Airstream suite is perfectly secluded, and only a five-minute drive to hiking trails and the charming town of Guerneville. Have the full camping experience by picking up local foods from the Main Street stores of Guerneville, and create a meal over your private campfire. And of course, a stay in the Russian River Valley isn’t complete without a swim (or leisurely float) in the famed river!

See Trip

These trips aren’t like anything you’ve ever done before. Guaranteed. With Trek Travel, wows are never extra. And with AutoCamp , neither are the incredible memories you’re sure to make.

Learn more about our Special Edition tours here and book your next adventure with us today.

See all our California trips

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Our 2022 Top 5 Cycling Vacations

Posted on January 5, 2022 - 2:50 pm by keith_ritter

Each year, we take thousands of guests on our trips to show them the world by bike! This year, we want to share our five most popular trips in 2022. These bike tours have received the most bookings and rave reviews from our guests, and we highly recommend them to anyone looking to embark on a cycling vacation of a lifetime in the coming year.

5. Glacier National Park

This tour takes riders on a journey through Glacier National Park, a boat ride on the shores of Grinnell Lake and hiking through stunning alpine landscapes. The terrain and breathtaking views make this tour a must-do for any cyclist or nature lover. One of the highlights of our Glacier National Park bike tour is the opportunity to ride the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a Trek Travel Great Ride. This 40-mile stretch of road winds its way through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and lakes.

See the trip

4. Portugal

Experience the best of what Portugal has to offer on our bike tour of the Alentejo Wine Region. This trip features unique excursions such as visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Evora and Elvas and taking Jeep tour of a Cork Forest. One of the most memorable experiences of this trip is a private visit to a former 18th century quinta, where guests can participate in a cooking class and wine tasting. You’ll learn about Portuguese cuisine and wine in a beautiful and intimate setting. So, if you’re looking to explore the beauty and culture of a region on and off of the bike, this tour is a must-do!

See the trip

3. California Wine Country

Are you a wine lover looking for the ultimate cycling adventure? Look no further than our California Wine Country Bike Tour! Spend a week immersing yourself in the beauty and culture of Sonoma, all while enjoying luxurious accommodations and unparalleled adventures. You’ll understand why this is our third most popular trip as you pedal on roads surrounded by sun-drenched vineyards and pass through the famous Armstrong Redwoods. Visit local wineries, taste their favorite varietals, and indulge in the culinary culture of this foodie paradise. If you’re ready to indulge in the finer side of life in California Wine Country, don’t miss out on this amazing tour in 2023.

See the trip

2. Croatia

It’s no surprise that Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast is one of the most popular trips of the year. This luxury destination is beloved by Europeans and travelers from all over the world. The clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea provide an ever-present and inspiring view, and our world-class, luxury accommodations and special excursions add to the indulgence. From a private chartered boat and private feasts, to a special walking tour to the unspoiled coastlines of Korcula, every moment of this tour will be a surprise. Add this once-in-a-lifetime cycling vacation to your travel plans!

See the trip

1. Tuscany

Tuscany is our most popular region of 2022, and for good reason — it is the ultimate Italian cycling experience. The quiet, rolling roads of the Tuscan countryside offer gorgeous terrain that’s a joy to pedal for cycling experts and novices alike. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a Chianti Classico in Radda and even perfect your cucina Italiana at a private pizza-making class. Along the way, you’ll discover the breathtaking scenery of the Val d’Orcia and the walled town of Montalcino, the birthplace of the revered Montalcino red wines. From riding along quiet roads lined with cypress trees in the beautiful Tuscan landscape to experiencing the rich history and culture of Italy, this tour has it all. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the best of Tuscany in the new year!

See the trip

Here’s to a great new year and new adventures! Join us in 2023!

See New Trips

2021: A Year in Review

Posted on December 18, 2021 - 11:08 pm by keith_ritter

group of people posing in front of mountain view in their bike jerseys and helmets

Each year, we take thousands of guests on our trips to show them the world by bike! This year, we want to share with you a review of 2021 with some fun numbers we have collected, along with a selection of the great ‘WOW’ moments our guides have created for our guests.

2021 in numbers

Can you believe across all of our Classic guided trips, our guests biked 639,984 miles (1,029,954 kilometers)?!

Across the world in 62 destinations, we took our guests on hundreds of trips. From visiting Michelin Star restaurants 21 times to drinking about 1,426 bottles of wine and taking 325 boat rides, our guests know how to travel in style! It’s a thrill to know our guests saw beautiful, natural landscapes across 26 mountain ranges and 11 National Parks. Not to mention, with 44 UNESCO World Heritage Site visits, our guests explored and learned about our destinations that are so rich in cultural and historical significance. And by adding 1,000 e-bikes to our fleet this year, we were able to take more guests to see these vast and epic places; they saw more by bike than they ever imagined possible.

Top 5 Trips

Where did most people enjoy traveling with us this year?

Counting down our top five most traveled trips this year, our number five fan-favorite trip for all levels of riders includes riding through the iconic National Parks of Utah on our Bryce & Zion bike tour.

Glacier National Park bike tour sits at number four, a trip that highlights one of the most scenic roads in America, Going to the Sun Road, which is also in the top spot on our Top 20 Great Rides collection.

At number three, we have the San Juan Islands, a multisport paradise in Washington state where besides biking, you can sea kayak, spot Orca pods, and enjoy the freshest seafood.

Asheville takes number two with its beauty of rolling green Southern Appalacian mountains. You will ride the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, along ancient waters, and breathtaking views.

Our number one most travelled destination in 2021 was our Vermont bike tour where guests love to celebrate the beauty of the changing seasons in Champlain Valley and Green Mountains. Guests enjoy unforgettable rides around Lake Champlain, past hillside farms, across covered bridges, and up into the vibrant forests of the pristine Green Mountains.

Our European honorable mentions include Croatia and Tuscany as two of our most beloved trips abroad. You will experience the most delicious and luxurious European dishes, learn how to make a few yourself, and ride past infinite vineyards and turquoise seas.

How we got here

As we look back on 2021, we feel gratitude that we were once again able to show people the world by bike, as we began running trips in North America. We kicked off our year with a Greenville Ride Camp at the beginning of March. As European borders began to reopen in June, we brought our first guests on a very special custom Cinque Terre, Italy trip and to our Croatia & Dalmation Coast bike tour.

Epic Moments

Our guides always love to make our guests feel extra special on trips, ensuring that their once-in-a-lifetime experience has that ‘WOW’ moment to create lasting, fond memories. Here are a few memorable moments from the year:

Rocket Anne
Guides Kyle and Lark had a very sociable group on one of our Asheville trips this year. All the guests quickly became friends on their vacation and had nicknamed one of their fellow travelers Rocket Anne for how fast she would finish the routes. At the end of the trip, our guides presented Anne with an awesome shirt with her nickname printed across it!

Awards night
Meanwhile in Utah, Colton and Anna had such an eager crew of riders who were way ahead of schedule on multiple days. Our guides offered up some scenic hiking ideas with the extra time and took the guests for some picturesque views of Bryce Canyon and Petrified Forest State Park. At the trip’s last dinner, Anna and Colton presented their guests with paper plate awards who, in turn, went wild over these whimsical, personalized tributes.

A Moonlight Performance
Brittany and Melissa discovered one of their guests was a singer on a Vermont trip. They hunted down a guitar and brought it to the s’mores campfire night where the guest proceeded to sing to them with glee. Even more exciting, another guest spontaneously jumped in on a song and the two of them harmonized for the whole crew.

Stormy Days Filled with Love
One day in Portugal, Nick and Mafalda ran into strong rainstorms which threatened the day’s plans, but instead of sitting around, our guides took their guests out to lunch on a free day. Mafalda proceeded to make up wonderful cards with words and expressions on them in several languages for their guests since they were on a month-long excursion. Their guests absolutely loved them and were really touched by their thoughtfulness.

The museum tour in Vermont
Steve, Brittany, and Skelly learned that the parents of two of the guests had donated pieces to the Shelburne Museum, a museum of art and design. Those two guests and their spouses had decided they did not want to ride on the last day. The team decided that one guide would escort these guests to the museum in Shelburne to see the works of art before meeting up with the rest of the group for lunch in Waterbury. It was a beautiful surprise for the guests.

Safety First

Here at Trek Travel, we are always looking out for your health and well-being and in 2021 with our enhanced standards, we led the way in keeping your care as priority number one. By strictly maintaining our safety and hygiene protocols, Trek Travel is fully committed to ensuring you feel comfortable and secure during your travels with us.

Here’s to a great new year and new adventures! Join us in 2022!

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2022 Bicycling Travel Awards

Posted on December 14, 2021 - 9:56 pm by keith_ritter

A view of tree covered mountains and low-lying clouds

Trek Travel is honored to have our Classic Climbs: The Tour bike vacation included in 2022 Bicycling Travel Awards in their Climber’s Dream Trip category. Focused on the most famous climbs of the Tour de France, this trip takes you to the French Alps, the Pyrénées, and the revered Mont Ventoux.

Caitlin Giddings writes that travelling by bike is the best way to experience the history, food, and culture of a region. And in the case of a climber’s ideal vacation, also spectacular riding in challenging, breathtaking terrain.

After more than a year and a half of day-to-day anxiety and travel uncertainty, she says we’re “ready for a two-wheeled escape where our biggest concerns are the simple essentials: where to rest, find water and food, and ride next.” Trek Travel’s trips check all the boxes to provide you with everything you need and more, with carefully planned routes, hand-picked accommodations, and the best of local dining so you get to experience much more than just the essentials.

Trek Travel agrees that the world is best seen by the seat of a bicycle, now more than ever.

Read the full article at Bicycling.com»

See trips from Trek Travel’s Classic Climbs Collection

Classic Climbs: The Tour with Trek Travel

Classic Climbs: The Tour Bike Vacation

Classic Climbs: The Alps Bike Tour

Classic Climbs: The Dolomites Bike Tour

Classic Climbs of Slovenia bike tours with Trek Travel

Classic Climbs: The Slovenian Alps Bike Tour

Explore all Avid-level bike tours with Trek Travel

See our Avid Bike Tours

For the best bike tours in the industry, browse our trips

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Your favorite Trek Travel picnic recipes from your awesome guides

Posted on November 23, 2021 - 10:55 pm by keith_ritter

Looking for some quick recipes this holiday season? Trek Travel has you covered! Our guides have been known to create beautiful picnic displays with delicious, easy, and homemade snacks that our guests cannot get enough of! Now, they want to share some of their favorite recipes with you to wow your family and friends!

Kale Salad

As seen on our Yellowstone & Grand Teton trip by Claire Reierson

1 bunch of kale, stemmed and sliced into ribbons
1/3 cup dried cranberries (or cherries)
1/3 cup walnuts
1/3 cup feta cheese
2 tbsp chopped shallots
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Dash of salt & pepper

1. Place kale in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine shallots, olive oil, red wine, vinegar, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Whisk well.
3. Pour dressing over kale. Gently toss until all kale is coated. Top with cranberries, walnuts and feta cheese. Enjoy!

Very Berry Salad

As seen on our Andalucia trip by Carlos Moreno

14 oz pack of mixed baby spring greens (spinach, arugula, lettuces, chard, radicchio)
8 oz strawberries, cored and sliced thin
8 oz blackberries
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
1/2 cup feta, crumbled
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp dijon mustard
Dash of salt & pepper

1. Place spring greens in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Whisk well.
3. Pour dressing over greens. Gently toss with berries, almonds, and feta.

Roasted Chicken with Dates and Olives

As seen on our Palm Springs trip by Megan Waldbillig

Boneless/skinless chicken thighs, about 6
Olive Oil
Herbs de Provence
Lemon zest
Honey
Dash of salt & pepper
1 leek
Pitted green olives, one small handful per chicken thigh
Dates, one small handful per chicken thigh
Caper berries

1. Preheat oven to 415 degrees F.
2. Use a 9×13 baking dish (glass recommended). Season boneless/skinless chicken thighs with olive oil and herbs de Provence, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Generously drizzle honey all over seasoned chicken.
3. Cook for 35 minutes or until the chicken thighs have an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
4. Meanwhile, thinly slice 1 leek set aside and then chop pitted green olives and dates.
5. When chicken is halfway done, take it out and flip thighs. Add all of your leek slices, dates, and olives.
6. Once fully cooked, sprinkle with caper berries.
7. Slice chicken thighs when cooled and serve, or refrigerate and eat chilled with salad the next day.

Grilled Veggie Quinoa Salad

As seen on our Santa Barbara Long Weekend trip by Megan Waldbillig

1 cup quinoa
Homemade chimichurri (recipe below)
Veggies of your choice (Megan uses summer squash, bell peppers, red onion, and asparagus, or broccolini and shishito peppers)
1/2 cup – 1 cup dried fruit of choice (Megan uses a blend of dried cranberries, cherries, and blueberries)
Dash of salt & pepper

1. Make 1 cup quinoa, let cool.
2. Make homemade chimichurri in a separate bowl. Blend in a food processor: 1 full bunch curly parsley, half pack of fresh oregano, handful of cilantro stems if desired (sometimes Megan throws in a small handful of other herbs too!), 5 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup white or red wine vinegar, 1 tsp crushed red peppers, 1/2 sliced red onion, juice of 1/2 lemon, 1/2 cup plus olive oil.
3. Grill your veggies. Let cool. Then chop. Mix with quinoa.
4. Add in 1/2 cup or more chimichurri.
5. Add dried fruit.

Melon With Serrano Ham

As seen on our Tuscany trip by Carlos Moreno

*A Trek Travel favorite since the beginning*

5.5 oz (150 g) serrano ham or prosciutto, thinly sliced
1/2 melon (crenshaw, galia, honeydew, cantaloupe, or other melon)
1 bouquet of parsley

1. Slice the melon in slices.
2. Wrap one slice of Serrano ham around each melon slice.
3. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.

Avocado Goat Cheese

As seen on our Glacier National Park trip by Megan Waldbillig

Avocados
Goat cheese
Honey
Dash of salt

1. Halve and slice avocados.
2. Crumble your favorite goat cheese on top of the halved avocados.
3. Add a heavy drizzle of honey on top.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste.

Gingered Fruit Salad

As seen on our New Mexico trip by Andrea Fair

1 small watermelon, chopped into 1 inch cubes
1 quart blueberries
1 quart strawberries, halved
5-7 fresh mint leaves
Crystallized ginger*
(Serves ~20 people. Adjust ratios as you see fit.)

1. In a medium-size bowl, toss together the watermelon, strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Finely chop the mint. Coarsely chop the crystallized ginger.
3. Mix the mint with the fruit and, just prior to serving, mix in the ginger! Garnish with a large bunch of fresh mint.

Note: Prepare this a day early by putting the watermelon in a bowl first, then layering the strawberries and blueberries on top. Cover and refrigerate. As per above, add the mint and ginger at the last minute.
*Crystallized ginger can usually be found by the clear, plastic container-packed bulk nuts and candy section in grocery stores. Typically near the produce department.

Banana Bombs

As seen on our Provence trip by Thomas English

Bananas
Oreos
Melted chocolate or Nutella

1. Spread melted chocolate or Nutella on top of one Oreo.
2. Add a slice of banana.
3. Bon appetit!

While preparing some easy and fun dishes, start cooking up your 2022 Trek Travel vacation plans with your family and friends!

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Kale Salad

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Avocado Goat Cheese

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