Bicycling

Although the Dutch didn’t invent the bicycle, almost everyone in the country (including the king) rides one; the cycling infrastructure in both villages and throughout the countryside is superb. Cycling from the cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam to the charming village of Bruges, Belgium, you will experience the best of these two countries. From the Unesco World Heritage site of the Kinderdijk windmills to the chocolate makers in Bruges, this is a unique journey in Europe.

We first started coming to this region in the early 1980’s, attracted by quiet country roads to bike and wonderful scenery, with castles seemingly around every corner; the Dordogne retains this charm and now has superb hotels and restaurants. In addition, the prehistoric caves of Font de Gaume & Lascaux, and pilgrimage site of Rocamadour and others make this a unique place in all of the world.

From the Old World charm of Prague and the Czech Republic, this journey will include the Unesco World Heritage site of Cesky-Krumlov and idyllic countryside of southern Bohemia; in Austria, follow the Danube River, where you can choose between gentle bike paths or venture into the nearby moderate hills where vineyards tempt. Finish in Vienna, one of Europe's most important artistic centers. This tour is the AVID version of our Prague to Vienna trip, where you'll ride 'door to door'. You should be fit and enjoy riding longer distances with hills.

Dare to be adventurous. Experience the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks during the day while enjoying the warm, luxurious comfort of mountain lodges at night.

Burgundy was once the richest of the ancient duchies in France and continues to exhibit wealth brought about by the popularity of its wine. Cycling small vineyard lanes and quiet country roads, where the only traffic you'll encounter might be a tractor bringing in the harvest, is the best way to see the countryside here. Picturesque villages are filled with wine cellars inviting degustations and tiny restaurants with winemakers' lunches where you'll enjoy food that is superbly prepared. We have been cycling in Burgundy for over 15 years now, and know the region intimately. From the many Flemish-style chateaux to the extraordinary Hospice de Beaune, the treasures of Burgundy are numerous.

Like the bouquet of a spicy Zinfandel, the wine country of California, north of San Francisco, opens up to reveal many delights and pleasures. Napa Valley and Sonoma County are synonymous with great wine and fine food and dining. By bike, discover shady back lanes, towering redwood groves, a surprising Russian history and delightful pedaling – past vineyards and wine chateaus of every conceivable design.

From the Old World charm of Prague and the Czech Republic, our journey will include the Unesco World Heritage site of Cesky-Krumlov and idyllic countryside of southern Bohemia; in Austria, we’ll follow the Danube River, where you can choose between gentle bike paths or venture into the nearby moderate hills where vineyards tempt. Our trip finishes in Vienna, one of Europe’s most important artistic centers.

Although the Dutch didn’t invent the bicycle, almost everyone in the country (including the king) rides one; the cycling infrastructure in both villages and throughout the countryside is superb. Cycling from the cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam to the charming village of Bruges, Belgium, you will experience the best of these two countries. From the Unesco World Heritage site of the Kinderdijk windmills to the chocolate makers in Bruges, this is a unique journey in Europe.

The pine-scented coastal region of Catalonia has long attracted artists (Salvador Dali, among others), writers, and those in search of beauty, tranquility, and inspiration. With its multitude of villages, sunny weather, seaside splendor, art, culture, and gastronomy & wine, this corner of Spain offers everything we look for when traveling. Did we mention the cycling is superb? In fact, many pro teams live and train here when not competing. While most of our routes are more moderate in length and difficulty, avid cyclists will have lots of options should they choose. From Figueres, to Callela de Palafrugell to Girona, we have created an itinerary that shows you the very best of this region.

Cycling in Northern Provence is a sensual experience. As you move slowly through the landscape smell the wild thyme and rosemary. Stop to admire the texture of olive trees against old stone walls. Taste fresh chèvre mingled with piquant tapenade. Listen to the splash of fountains in village squares lined with rustling plane trees. Cycle slowly and savour!

Although the Dutch didn’t invent the bicycle, almost everyone in the country (including the king) rides one; the cycling infrastructure in both villages and throughout the countryside is superb. Cycling from the cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam to the charming village of Bruges, Belgium, you will experience the best of these two countries. From the Unesco World Heritage site of the Kinderdijk windmills to the chocolate makers in Bruges, this is a unique journey in Europe.

Pamplona to Santiago de Compostella For any traveler interested in history, art, & culture, the Camino de Santiago certainly ranks as one of the most spectacular trips in the world today. From the 10th Century to the present day, pilgrims have come (by foot and now bicycle) from near and far to experience this enigma of Spain. For riders of this trail, you can choose between a paved or off-road route as it threads its way across Spain. The scenery is breathtaking with lots of cultural and historical sights along the way.