Last year, RewardExpert released its 2017 ranking of the Best Destinations to Explore by Bike, comparing 53 of the largest cities in the country and evaluating them on 13 key metrics across four categories: biking infrastructure, city profile, bike-share index, and biking safety. Top of the list – Minneapolis, with 170 bike share stations and 130 miles of bike lanes through Nice Ride Minnesota. Topping RewardExpert’s Up & Coming Cities list was Memphis, with plans to implement a bike-share program this year to use in the city’s already-expanded bike lanes.
Below you’ll find a dozen bicycling routes and tours around the U.S. that will you get in the saddle and traveling on two wheels. Of course, this is just a sampling of places to ride – pretty much wherever you go, there’s likely a chance to hop on a bike.
Asheville (North Carolina): Riding along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll pedal the mountains of western North Carolina where you’ll find the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. On the Asheville to Brevard trip with Trek Travel, pass rivers and waterfalls as you ride the scenic roadways and enjoy the indulgences between Asheville, “Beer City USA,” and the mountain town of Brevard.
Glacier National Park (Montana): Named one of the best bicycling routes by several cycling publications, Going-to-the-Sun Road is not to be missed when riding in Glacier National Park. Trek Travel, which features Trek Bikes and electric assist bikes, offers a tour that highlights various areas of the park, and even includes rafting on the Flathead River. Just 25 glaciers remain in the park, and seeing them by bike gives you more time to reflect upon them.
Trek is the best operator I know of that does a trip for the Etape du Tour, a mass participation ride held annually that recreates an exact replica of a full Tour de France stage in the current year’s race, with thousands of enthusiasts attacking the course.
This year’s route included famous climbs in the heart of the Alps such as the Col de la Croix Fry and Col de la Colombière. Typically held on a rest day in the actual race, this “replica Tour,” is extremely popular, hard to get into, and usually picks a climbing focused stage. The easiest, most luxurious and most turnkey way to participate is on Trek Travel’s 6-day trip that warms up with local rides before tackling the race in day 5. This year’s was 105 miles with four notable climbs. The trip uses the highest level of fancy hotels in Trek’s scale and equips each participant with a pro-worthy Domane SL 7 carbon road bike with Di2 electronic shifting. The 2019 info will be announced here.
This spring I had the chance to visit Joshua Tree National Park where two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together. The sky seems to go on forever and despite being in the desert, the variety of plants and landscapes is inspiring.
“If the plant bears any helpful or even innocent part in the scheme of things on this planet, I should be glad to hear of it.”
We talked to the rad women of Trek Travel and gathered together a list of their go-to gear for spring riding. Here are their top picks, tried and true from the icy thaw of Madison to the mud and grit of the Spring Classics.
Updated March 26, 2020
ASHLEY | TRIP DESIGN COORDINATOR
“I keep tissues in my seat pack. Mornings and late evenings are still a bit chilly and there’s no escaping the inevitable nose-drip!”
“I would say the Patagonia Houdini Jacket. Basically everyone I know has one, and we all stop and put them on or take them off at the same time when we are riding in a group. Kinda funny! I love this thing— it is super light, packable, well-fitting, and good looking. It’s a staple of any adventure-riding wardrobe I would say! Especially great for spring and fall since it’s not that heavy- just warm enough to take the edge off on long descents or as that last layer when you are finishing a day-to-night ride and the temps start to drop.”
ERIKA | CONTENT COORDINATOR
“One of my favorite things about spring is breaking out the fun socks! Gone are the days of wool socks and boots. We are celebrating warmer weather, people! Get out your fancy socks! Some of my favorites are made by Ten Speed Hero, like their Pink Sprinkles socks. ‘The colorful sprinkles on these socks bring to mind the delight that we experienced as children,’ TSH says, which directly relates to the delightful feeling of riding a bike. And when those brightly colored socks get covered with grit and salt from the Wisconsin roads, that’s when they really shine.”
The Pink Sprinkles socks are no longer available, but check out their awesome current socks at TenSpeedHero.com
TANIA | PRESIDENT
“My new helmet! I don’t wear a lot of pink, but this helmet looks awesome and is a great spring color!”
With Custom Trips, the sky is the limit. Whether you’re exploring a new part of the world or throwing the birthday party of the decade, bespoke vacations let you travel your way and turn your dreams into reality. Our Private Trip Coordinator, Bryna, shares some of her most memorable from 2017.
1. Munich to Salzburg
Because who doesn’t love riding across the border? This trip was the perfect Bavarian holiday spent wandering through charming villages, across expansive alpine views and over mountainous roads from Munich, Germany all the way to Salzburg, Austria in a week’s time.
Trip Highlights
• Picturesque cycling through the majestic Alps, crystal blue lakes and rolling hills carpeted in wildflowers
• Michelin-starred cuisine, Bavarian beers and local Austrian wines
In one word: unforgettable. This custom trip offered guests the opportunity to ride across France, while enjoying the stunning landscapes, sights and quintessential French cuisine. The best part? This trip ended with a bang. A huge birthday celebration where a whole new group of friends joined for the main event. In order to accomadate everyone, we put together a few “trip packages” for those that traveled the full trip, those that were coming only for the party, and for those joining the party but also wanted a couple nights of accommodation to explore the region. One of my favorite things about Custom Trips is seeing a group of friends come together, whether it be for a fun-filled getaway or a special occasion, and this trip was the epitome of that.
Trip Highlights
• Private wine and chocolate tasting
• Visiting a local truffle farm and enjoying a special truffle lunch
• Multiple Michelin-starred meals
• Birthday celebration complete with champagne, music, a dance floor and some killer dance moves at the beautiful Hotel Le Cep
3. Quebec
We believe the world is best seen from the seat of a bicycle, and nothing gets us more excited than when the bicycle takes us to a new corner of the world. Custom Quebec was fresh territory for us, and we can now say, “There’s only one Quebec City.” The cycling, sites and myriad of activities are second to none.
Trip Highlights
• Cycling the Isle-aux Coudres
• Hiking in the Charlevoix Unesco World Biosphere Reserve
• Kayaking on the grand St-Lawrence river, a river and estuary which runs from the Great Lakes to the Pacific Ocean
• Private, guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage site, the Historic District of Old Quebec
BONUS: Texas
Did you know we do corporate trips? Custom Texas was just one of a few company trips we designed this year. What we loved about this one in particular was that it was 100% multisport. While Trek Travel is known for cycling, we love all things active! This trip was based out of one hotel in Austin and included kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, hiking, swimming, a boat cruise and an unforgettable farm-to-table dinner because you have to fuel up! There was even an option for mountain biking. Talk about having it all!
So the moral of the story is, throw a dart at the map. We’ll take care of the rest!
Andalucia is a perfect destination for a cycling vacation of a lifetime. If you find yourself with a flight to Andalucia for a Spain bike tours, consider any of the following cities before or after your trip. From the flamenco caves of Granada to the northern Pyrenees and coastal cities of Catalonia, you will be enchanted by Spain.
Like any country, the landscape and culture is unique wherever you go in Spain. Andalucia, or Andalusia, is a region in southern Spain known for its warm weather, agriculture, sherry, Jamon Ibérico, flamenco, bullfighting and Moorish architecture. It’s an incredible experience for a cycling vacation with a variety of climbs and rolling hills, stunning views, friendly people and endless tapas throughout your ride that continue into the night alongside a glass of sherry or local vino. Just a train ride away you’ll find a handful of popular and to-be-discovered cities throughout Spain that are also worth a trip.
Before: Seville, Spain
On Trek Travel’s cycling vacation, we begin in Seville, Andalucia’s capital city, where we meet up with the guides to start the bike tour. If you arrive at the end of April, you could catch the beginning of Feria, one of Spain’s biggest festivals. On the night of the festival, follow the crowds along the river to the grounds that house hundreds of decorated casetas, or little houses, for private gatherings that celebrate well into the night and into the following morning. During the day, be sure to enjoy the local tapas bars and explore the history and architecture of Seville. Lonely Planet named Seville the “Best city to visit in 2018.”
Empty streets of downtown Sevilla. The entire city made their way to the Feria de Abril festival.
Plaza de España in Sevilla
During: Ronda to Antequera, Andalucia
If you’re a lucky guest on the Trek Travel trip, hop in the van with the guides and drive into the hills to a lovely olive oil farm. Your first ride will lead you down into a valley and up through the hills towards the hidden gem of Ronda. Ronda is a historic mountaintop city overlooking a gorge that includes the diverse “old town” and “new town”, separated by an iconic stone bridge. The “old town” houses residents who’ve lived there for centuries, and across the bridge you’ll find shops, tapas bars, flamenco dancing, the oldest bull fighting ring in Spain and more. The whole city is quite small and very walk-able. Ronda is extremely charming and a gem of the South.
The hills of Andalucia bring slow climbs and views of pueblos blancos, or white villages, dotted throughout the landscape
A hidden gem in Andalucia, Ronda is a historic town that overlooks a breathtaking gorge
After (Southern Spain): Granada
After the Trek Travel trip, consider taking a train to experience Granada. Granada features the Moorish castle Alhambra which overlooks the old neighborhood of Albaicín. Sit down and have a beer or glass of wine here and you’ll also receive a small plate of tapas – whatever the kitchen is serving up that day. You might never have to pay for food here, as long as you have a drink ordered. Be sure to get tickets in advance to tour the Alhambra, it’s a popular tourist sight, but you’ll find the city itself is filled with friendly, charming locals. You can’t miss the flamenco in Granada either – here, step into a cave, sit down with a drink and enjoy the dancers and musicians perform the traditional flamenco.
The view from Generalife at Alhambra and a hot air balloon floating over the city of Granada
After (Northern Spain): Barcelona, Girona and San Sebastian
If you’re looking to head north, book a train to Catalonia to find a variety of cities to fall in love with. Travel to Barcelona for its seaside cityscape, world-class dining, museums and famous architecture. Or hop on a quick train just north of Barcelona to Girona in Costa Brava for cobbled streets, medieval architecture, a cycling scene and endless pintxos. Girona is just 20 minutes from the coast where you’ll find unbelievable views of the Mediterranean sea, and roads that are perfect for a scenic bike ride. San Sebastian is only a train ride away and nestled into the northern edge of Spain on the border of France. San Sebastian is in the Basque region, home of some of the best seafood and beaches in the world. It is a foodies delight, with enough Michelin star restaurants and world-class pintxos and cidre to keep you full for your entire stay.
Wherever you choose to travel to in Spain, you will not be disappointed. This warm and welcoming country will keep you busy with activities or relaxation and make you want to come back for more.
Old town in San Sebastian and one of the best beaches in the world, La Concha
Plan your cycling vacation to Andalucia with Trek Travel
We’re proud to introduce the newest, most advanced way to ride longer, farther and faster than ever before. Because we know that travelers like you enjoy a unique, memorable and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Read on for our top 6 e-bike tours —from the vineyards of California to the rolling hills of Tuscany.
Saturate your senses in one of the world’s premier cycling regions. Napa and Sonoma Valleys provide an uncommon blend of panoramic views, flavorful wines, and elegant country living along quiet back roads. Pedal through sun-drenched vineyards and famed centuries-old Armstrong Redwoods, easily climbing every hill in your path. You’ll eat well, drink even better, and savor all the rich flavors that have made this area famous.
A breathtaking blend of great cycling, awe-inspiring scenery and the finest food and sumptuous hotels await the discerning traveler. Pedal along Cyprus tree-lined lanes and lush vineyards into the heart of the Chianti wine region where time appears to stand still and vibrant local markets await your arrival. Here you’ll feast on Michelin-starred Tuscan cuisine and perfect your pizza spin with our expert pizzaiolo, all while staying in hotels known for centuries as the height of luxury. Sun-drenched landscapes, the warmth of the Tuscan locals, and the region’s incredible cuisine and wine are the recipes for an unforgettable and magical Tuscany e-bike tour.
“Although he is the cyclist, I enjoyed the trip as much, if not more! Even though my skill-level was nowhere near the rest of the group, I was able keep up with (and at times, pass up) the others when I used the electric assist bike. I was so happy to not have missed the Tuscan landscapes while riding, which are as beautiful as you see in any postcard or painting. The off-bike experiences were phenomenal.”
– Dawn
While some other destinations exist, Provence blossoms. Here, the world is in full bloom, from rich, fragrant, local recipes that awaken your senses to the countryside alive with color, to stunning vistas across lavender fields and the towering Mont Ventoux. It may sound cliché to say that one place “has it all,” but in the case of Provence it’s true. Especially if “all” includes Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class bike rides at whatever pace you choose and the comfort of a luxurious farmhouse that’s been converted to a Relais & Chateaux property, which will serve as your home for the duration. It’s pure luxury on and off the bike.
From historic Dubrovnik to the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, there are more reasons to love Croatia than we can count. A perfect cycling tour along the Dalmatian Coast, where from the start, you’ll lose your heart to captivating, historic Dubrovnik, whose centuries-old city walls and fortresses surround an enchanting, romantic Old Town. As you move along to the unforgettable port of Split, you’ll visit sun-kissed islands and ride along ancient stone terraces carpeted in lavender without breaking a sweat. Enjoy the unspoiled beaches of Korcula, discover tiny hamlets ringed by olive trees and vineyards, and explore deserted coves near chic, glamorous Hvar Town.
The gentle hills made even gentler by electric-assist and the soothing ocean breezes of southern Spain beckon us to return. From nights in a seaside Iberian villa to days spent cruising the Empordà plain, this Mediterranean paradise offers a perfect mixture of lively culture, fabulous cuisine, and varied terrain for all levels of riders. This is Spain. And that’s something special all its own.
“My husband is an avid cyclist and I was initially hesitant to do this trip. However, the electric-boost bike allowed me to keep up with him and now I am the biggest cheerleader for Trek Travel bike tours! I am already planning our next adventure!”
– Lisa
You don’t just visit Andalucia. You feel it. Home to flamenco, gazpacho, and the kind of glamour that Spain is known for, this cycling vacation is the perfect getaway and the perfect opportunity explore by e-bike. You’ll drink in the rich splendor of this elegant and charming region – from the sun-drenched “pueblos blancos” to tranquil mountain passes and limestone peaks. This is a place so immersive, so distinctive and so sophisticated, it makes regular life look entirely too regular.
Find your rush with exotic adventures that go beyond the bike and show you a whole new side to some of the most exotic locales around the world. Here are our top 5 trips for the those who want to bike, hike, and explore the wild world.
Exotic, beautiful and exhilarating, our Costa Rica vacation is full of tropical rides with exciting stops along the way. You’ll raft down the incredible Rio Balsa, relax in the pool with a view of Arenal Volcano, discover the ancient secrets of chocolate on a rainforest chocolate tour, enjoy a boat cruise across Lake Arenal, zip line through the Cloud Forest, take a surfing lesson and watch a Pacific Ocean sunset from the back of a horse. It’s about as adventurous as it gets in one of the most picturesque places on earth.
From the majestic living glaciers and steep fjords of the Kenai Peninsula, north to the lonesome gravel roads of the interior outpost of Talkeetna and skyward to 20,310’ Mt. Denali, this is one experience sure to blow your mind at every turn. Explore the wonders of one of the last great American ski towns around Alyeska Resort, hop a train and marvel at the 360 degree views under the shadow of the massive Chugach range, raft the glacially fed Susitna River then pedal your bike through the alders along the Chase Trail past grizzly and moose tracks. And that’s just the start.
Ecuador is like no other place on Earth and our multisport journey from the Andean highlands to the Galápagos Islands will show you why. South America’s fourth-smallest country boasts the world’s greatest biodiversity per square mile. As you travel by bus, bike, foot, boat and plane, you will encounter species of birds, plants, reptiles and amphibians that will educate, inform and take your breath away. From the Guango Cloud Forest Reserve to Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos this trip is groud zero for adventure and ecodiversity.
Embrace the wilds of Wyoming in the shadow of the majestic Teton Range. You’ll get to know the open countryside and resident moose as you ride under the banner of stunning views that make the peaks of Grand Teton National Park famous. You’ll hike to hidden alpine lakes and waterfalls, learn the stories of this unique and amazing landscape from local wildlife experts and journey northward to Yellowstone National Park to bear witness to the wonders of Old Faithful and Yellowstone Falls. And did we mention whitewater rafting the famous Snake River Canyon?
Glacier National Park isn’t just another protected wildlife site in northwest Montana. It’s one of Mother Nature’s most prized possessions, crammed end-to-end with snow-capped peaks, blue skies, moose, big-horn sheep, mountain goats, aspen trees and inspiration. As you ride the smooth pavement of Going-to-the-Sun Road, your soundtrack will include the echo of Bird Woman Falls and the vast silences of the hinterland. There’s no better time to visit this undiscovered country, because only 25 glaciers remain, and with every passing day, they get a little smaller.
With each new region comes new art to explore whether it’s one-of-a-kind architecture or a kingdom of mosaics. Here are our top 5 trips for those who seek out beauty and art around the world.
While the landscape itself will take your breath away, you’ll also have the chance to visit the Castell de Dalí, a renovated medieval castle and gift from Costa Brava-born artist Salvador Dalí to his wife, Gala. It infuses Salvador Dalí’s creativity right down to the finest details and its goal was to provide Gala with a quiet and secluded place. Over time it also became Salvador Dalí’s last studio and finally the mausoleum of his muse.
Take a stroll through Fusterlandia, the home of Cuban artist Jose Fuster (“the Picasso of the Caribbean”), whose artistic mission is to transform his community through a kingdom of mosaic creations. Started 20 years ago and now an ongoing project, Fusterlandia covers several suburban blocks of fantastical public art that you have to see to believe.
Not only known for its wineries and lush vineyards, California is also home to an abundant art culture, with galleries seemingly on every corner featuring local artists and one-of-a-kind pieces that’ll make you wish you brought an extra suitcase.
In the small town of Abiquiú you can explore the historic plaza galleries and museum, check out Bode’s eclectic General Store, or (with advanced reservations) take a tour of Georgia O’Keeffe’s home and studio.
Take a 90-minute cycling tour of some of Palm Springs most beautiful and architecturally significant houses. Conducted by the highly-rated architecture tour guide Trevor O’Donnell, we’ll learn the background of homes like the Kaufmann Desert House, a 70-year old masterwork of design and construction, and hear tales that bring the homes alive through their interesting history.
Focus on nothing but rides, rest and relaxation in world-class destinations during the best riding season on the calendar. You’ll leave with legs that are ready for anything. Here are our top 5 trips for the avid cyclist.
L’Etape du Tour isn’t just a ride. It’s a proving ground with your name scribbled in chalk. Take on famed routes of the Tour de France in this bucket list gran fondo-style event. Before you sign up, hear from a first time finisher of L’Etape du Tour about how tackling the legendary climbs and descents was made better with the support of Trek Travel.
Everyone’s favorite Ride Camp in a favorite location for 2020. Pedal the same roads as George Hincapie, Christian Vande Velde, Taylor Phinney and practically every other pro as you gaze out on the crystal blue Mediterranean Sea and explore one charming Spanish village after the next. You’ll test your legs on the steeps of the Pyrenees, ride along the shores of Costa Brava and up your fitness in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Santa Barbara to Myrtle Beach
The goal: ambitious. The distance: 3,426 miles. The training: intense. The opportunity: unrivaled. If you’re ready for the bike trip—and challenge—of a lifetime, take on this bicycle tour that stretches from the Pacific to the Atlantic across the southern tier of our beautiful country.
The landscape of the famed Dolomite mountain range offers epic riding as you climb the jagged peaks and legendary roads made famous by the Giro d’Italia. Experience the passion of Italian cycling beneath clear blue skies, as you ride past proud pale mountains and through lush green alpine pastures. This cycling trip offers the very best of the dramatic Dolomites and Italian Alps.
With daily routes through France and Spain, averaging over 60 miles and 7,000 vertical feet, this cross-country bike trip offers avid cyclists an invigorating combination of riding and cultural experience. Though the riding is challenging and the terrain is surely spectacular, the unassuming charm and hearty cuisine of the Basque & Catalan people serve to keep cyclists well-fueled and refreshed, as this bicycle tour traverses a true cycling paradise.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for 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 Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.
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.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
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