Ride and Seek Bike Tours

Cycling between Bogota and Cartagena offers you the chance to see Colombia’s cultural and geographical diversity, from the bustling urban landscapes to tranquil countryside, and from the coffee plantations to the Caribbean coastline. Along the way, you’ll encounter warm and welcoming locals, taste traditional Colombian dishes, and gain insights into the country’s rich history and heritage.

Embark on our challenging Colombian cycling tour with plenty of climbing and the iconic Alto de Letras climb. However, beyond the hills, experience cultural immersion in Bogota & Medellin, colonial charm in Villa de Leyva, coffee delights in the Coffee Triangle, and coastal beauty in Cartagena. This well-rounded adventure combines diverse landscapes, history, and thrilling cycling experiences.

Our historical theme is centred around the life and legacy of Simon Bolivar, known as “El Libertador,” who played a key role in the liberation of Colombia from Spanish colonial rule. His legacy is deeply ingrained in Colombia’s history, culture, and identity, as he remains an enduring symbol of freedom and unity, shaping the nation’s values and aspirations.

Colombia boasts a rich cycling heritage and has become a safe and popular travel destination for cyclists. The country has produced numerous world-class cyclists – think Nairo Quintana, Egan Bernal, and Rigoberto Urán – and has a passionate cycling culture.

Highlights

• The Andes Mountains: Colombia’s stunning Andean region provides a plethora of challenging climbs and rewarding descents, offering some of the most scenic cycling routes in the world.
• Lake Guatavita Loop: A legendary site with ties to El Dorado and Colombian indigenous cultures.
• Climb to Alto de Letras: one of the longest climbs on Earth, spanning over 80 kilometers with an ascent of more than 3,600 meters. A true bucket-list challenge.
• Visit the Casa de Narino: the Presidential Palace, where Bolivar lived during his time as President
• Discover Medellin: A city with a captivating charm, from its lush landscapes to dynamic urban culture, warm people, exciting nightlife, and a remarkable transformation
• The Ciclovía: Medellín has embraced cycling culture hosts a weekly Ciclovía, where major roads are closed for cyclists and pedestrians.
• Local Hospitality: Colombian culture is famously warm and welcoming. Did we mention that cycling is also hugely popular too?
• Zona Cafetera: In search of the perfect coffee – Colombia’s coffee region and a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Explore Cartagena: It’s enchanting old town, vibrant streets, historic fortifications, beautiful beaches, and delightful Caribbean cuisine for an unforgettable adventure
• Santa Marta: Finish the tour on Colombia’s Caribbean coast and visit the Cathedral Basilica of Santa Marta where Simone Bolivar was interred when he died in 1830.

Norway has come out on top in the last three end-of-season surveys we have sent out as the country you wanted us to cycle in. This one has been bubbling away for a long time, and we have discussed a number of iterations of how a Norway tour would look. With a couple of the team having run tours in Norway already, we had a good base from which to design a tour, but it was a chance meeting with an ex-pro cyclist from France who now calls Norway home that we found a formula we were happy with.

That formula is a two-stage tour that starts above the Arctic Circle in the spectacular Lofoten Islands and then takes us from Trondheim to Bergen. The Norsemen provides the historical context for your Norwegian adventure.

Stage 1: Lofoten Islands As you embark on a cycle ride through the mythical landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, you are transported back in time to the days of the fearless Norsemen. The rugged coastal terrain and majestic mountains mirror the spirits of these seafaring warriors who once roamed these very shores. Early in your journey, we arrive in Svolvær, where the modern world meets ancient legends. Pedalling along the winding coastal roads, you pass charming fishing villages where weathered wooden boats rest in the embrace of tranquil fjords. The scent of the salty sea breeze invigorates your senses, evoking memories of Viking ships navigating the vast ocean.

Your ride takes you through dramatic landscapes, surrounded by towering cliffs and the distant call of seagulls. Each bend in the road reveals a new breathtaking vista, and you imagine the Norsemen gazing upon these same vistas with a mix of awe and reverence. In Henningsvær, a picturesque village seemingly floating on the water, you pause to admire its timeless beauty. The ancient fisherman huts, called rorbuer, still stand as a testament to the resilient spirits of those who once braved the tempestuous seas. As the midnight sun hovers on the horizon, you are captivated by the enchanting play of light and shadows. The ethereal glow of the sunlit peaks transports you to the realm of Norse mythology, where gods and giants once shaped the world.

Stage 2: Trondheim to Bergen Your cycle ride from Trondheim to Bergen takes you through a historic path that resonates with the echoes of the Norsemen’s footsteps. Leaving Trondheim, the city of ancient kings and vibrant history, you venture into the rugged landscapes of the Norwegian heartland. The road winds through rolling hills and dense forests, evoking images of Viking explorers navigating the vast wilderness in search of new lands and riches. As you pass through quaint villages, you can’t help but imagine the Norse communities that once thrived here, living off the land and the sea’s bounty.

The climb up Trollstigen, the Troll’s Path, challenges your mettle just as it did the warriors of old. As you conquer this winding mountain road, you feel a sense of triumph akin to the victorious Norsemen returning from their expeditions. Descending towards the Geirangerfjord, the breathtaking beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage site reminds you of the Norse legends that often involved these dramatic landscapes. The cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs seem like the backdrop of ancient sagas, where gods and heroes weaved tales of valour and heroism.

Continuing south, the Hardangerfjord greets you with its picturesque orchards and serene waters. The Norsemen were skilled navigators, and you appreciate their mastery of these treacherous fjords as you pedal along the water’s edge. In Voss, known for its adrenaline-pumping activities, you can’t help but feel a kinship with the adventurous spirit of the Norse warriors. The thrill of conquering nature’s challenges echoes the daring feats of those who embraced the call of the wild.

Finally, you arrive in Bergen, a city steeped in history and maritime heritage. The colourful houses of Bryggen Wharf are a reminder of the bustling trade and exploration that once defined this Hanseatic port. Both rides immerse you in the world of the Norsemen, allowing you to connect with their spirit of exploration, resilience, and appreciation for the awe-inspiring beauty of the Nordic landscapes.

Pedal across borders, reliving battles and culture, unveiling the enduring narrative of conquest and coexistence.

Embark on an immersive two-stage cycling odyssey from Cordoba to Fez, delving into the heart of the Reconquista’s legacy. Stage one begins in Cordoba, Spain, leading through iconic towns like Granada and Antequera, each echoing the Reconquista’s historic drama. Pedal through shifting landscapes, crossing the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry.

In stage two, explore Morocco’s enchanting terrain, tracing the Reconquista’s footsteps through Tangier. Journey onwards, reaching Fez, a city steeped in medieval history. This extraordinary expedition fuses cycling with cultural exploration, unveiling the intricate tapestry of the Reconquista across two nations, igniting the spirit of discovery.

Highlights Cardoba to Tarifa

• Cordoba: Explore the Mezquita-Catedral. A symbol of the religious transition from Islam to Christianity, as it was initially a mosque before being converted into a cathedral.
• Tapas Bars: Indulge in a tapas crawl, savouring traditional dishes like salmorejo, grilled octopus, and Iberian ham.
• Sierra Nevada: Enjoy challenging cycling through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which acted as a natural boundary between Christian and Muslim territories during the Reconquista.
• Granada: Discover the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex built by the Nasrid dynasty, representing the Muslim rule in the region.
• Flamenco in Sacromonte: Experience flamenco in the historic Sacromonte caves, where the art form has deep roots.
• Ronda: Reflect on the strategic importance of Ronda as a fortified settlement during the Reconquista and marvel at its dramatic position atop cliffs, the blend of Moorish heritage, and stunning vistas.
• Culinary Delights: Sample Andalusian cuisine, including tapas, gazpacho, and local specialties.
• Scenic Routes: Experience the stunning countryside as you ride through olive groves, vineyards, and farmlands.
• White Villages (Pueblos Blancos): Explore charming white-washed villages like Ronda and Grazalema, each nestled in picturesque landscapes.
• Tarifa: Conclude your journey in Tarifa, where the Reconquista effectively ended with the capture of the city in 1292.

Highlights Tarifa to Fez

• Tangier: Start your cycling journey in Tangier, a city with a mix of Moroccan, European, and African influences.
• Riads: Stay in traditional riads, Moroccan-style guesthouses known for their intricately designed courtyards, mosaic tiles, and serene atmosphere.
• Chefchaouen: Enjoy a picturesque ride to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s “Blue Pearl”.
• Meknes: Visit Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, and explore its historic medina and grand city gates.
• Berber Whiskey: Sip on Moroccan mint tea, a fragrant blend of green tea, fresh mint, and sugar, commonly enjoyed throughout the day.
• Volubilis: Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the well-preserved mosaics, arches, and columns.
• Scenic Cycling: Pedal through rolling hills, olive groves, and picturesque valleys, taking in the beauty of Morocco’s natural scenery.
• Wellness & Relaxation: After a day of cycling, relax in hammams (traditional bathhouses) or enjoy wellness treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind.
• Diverse Cuisine: Savor tagines, couscous dishes, and Moroccan salads, enjoying the unique blend of sweet and savoury elements.
• Fez: Explore the sprawling medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its iconic tanneries.

Traverse diverse terrains, from challenging ascents to scenic routes, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes. This adventure promises a week of exploration, showcasing the remarkable gravel paths that make the Mont Ventoux region a cycling paradise.

Our Provence Gravel Explore is anchored by two cycle-friendly hotels and cherished partners in exploration. Connecting the dots between these bases and weaving in loops promises a rich tapestry of gravel riding adventures. With these accommodations as hubs, riders can immerse themselves in the diverse and scenic landscapes that define the best of our captivating region.

Highlights

• Traverse the stunning Gorges de la Nesque, a gravel rider’s paradise with breathtaking scenery.
• Conquer the iconic Mont Ventoux via gravel trails, offering a unique perspective on this legendary climb.
• Discover the charm of the Luberon and its quintessential Provencal charm
• Sample local wines combining the joy of cycling with exquisite culinary experiences.
• Enjoy hearty, rustic cuisine in Bédoin, refuelling with local flavours after tackling Mont Ventoux’s gravel trails.
• Explore the enchanting Dentelles de Montmirail region, navigating gravel paths through picturesque vineyards.

Setting off from our base near Mont Ventoux, we conquer the Giant of Provence before tracing the Vercors, believed to be part of Hannibal’s journey over the Alps. Our destination? The legendary 21 switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez, where riders can join or depart. The return journey follows the historic Route Napoleon via Sisteron, immersing cyclists in its storied past. This route not only offers exhilarating cycling challenges but also invites riders to connect with the rich tapestry of history woven into the landscapes of Provence and the French Alps. Join us for a journey that promises both physical exhilaration and a deep appreciation for the historical context of the regions we traverse.

Our ultimate loop ride, from Mont Ventoux to Alpe d’Huez and back, builds on a decade of our Hannibal tour legacy. This fusion of history and epic cycling creates an unparalleled adventure. Riders journey through time, pedalling across landscapes steeped in ancient lore and modern cycling legend.

Highlights

• Conquer the iconic Mont Ventoux, a challenging ascent renowned among cyclists for its steep gradients and stunning vistas.
• Tackle the famous 21 switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez, an iconic climb steeped in cycling history and offering breathtaking panoramic views at the summit.
• Indulge in exquisite Provençal cuisine and local wines along the route, savouring the flavours of the region’s rich culinary heritage amidst picturesque vineyards and charming villages.
• Experience the stunning landscapes of the Vercors, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and lush forests providing a breathtaking backdrop for your ride.
• Explore the historic town of Sisteron, nestled between the Alps and Provence, known for its ancient citadel and picturesque old town.
• Traverse the scenic Gorges de Méouge, where the turquoise waters of the river wind through rugged cliffs, offering exhilarating cycling routes amidst stunning natural beauty.

Split into 3 stages, each a week-long, the 3 Islands Tour is a journey through the history, food, architecture, and traditions of these Mediterranean jewels — two iconic Italian islands and one French island. The exceptional diversity of the islands is represented through the numerous civilisations and cultures that have left their mark, the amazing gastronomic variations, the strikingly rugged interior landscapes paired with stunning coastlines of white beaches and emerald waters, and locals with an incredibly strong sense of place. The Mediterranean charm is truly at the heart of this tour.

We ride from North to South beginning with Corsica, home of Napoleon. Its mountainous north contrasts beautifully with idyllic beaches and fishing villages. From here we head to Sardinia, a land of towering cliffs, beach coves, and unique history. Then, finally, to Sicily where rolling farmland, volcanoes, and stunning coastline is littered with classical sites in exceptional settings.

We will ride down the west coast of Corsica which is the more picturesque and less busy side. We will end the first week in the stunning village of Bonifacio. From here, we will sail across to Italy and Sardinia. Our cycling tour through Sardinia will take us along the west coast as it holds more Phoenician significance and it is also our preferred cycling route. Our destination is Cagliari from where we will catch the overnight ferry to Sicily and its atmospheric capital: Palermo. The cycling tour through Sicily will focus on the southern part of the island as we head towards Catania which marks the end of our ride.

Join us on a ride of historical proportions as we ride the classic climbs of the Pyrenees and Alps from Biarritz to Alba. Cycling on some of Europe’s most iconic and picturesque bike touring routes through France, and Italy, this epic journey also takes on the most iconic leg of Hannibal’s journey.

Divided into two stages the Hannibal tour takes in some of the finest cycling you could ever wish to find. Picture postcard views abound as we traverse some of the iconic climbs of the Grand Tours, roll through the vineyards of the Languedoc, Provence, and then over the Alps into Piedmont, Italy.

Experience total immersion in the landscape, history, and culture of the places we visit as we ride this inspirational iconic trail on the road less travelled. Discover from the saddle why crossing the Alps in 218 BC was a major turning point in history.

This was the clash of the ancient superpowers. If Hannibal had been victorious against Rome our world today would be completely different. The Western world wouldn’t have Rome at its origins, rather a Middle Eastern colony based in North Africa!

Embark on a transformative journey tracing the footsteps of Sultan Suleyman along the Sultan’s Trail. This historic route winds through eight countries, shaped by diverse civilizations, offering a tapestry of history, nature, and culture. Delve into ancient cities, traverse majestic landscapes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of cultures along the way.

From bustling markets to tranquil countryside, each step unveils new surprises and insights. Completing the Sultan’s Trail not only fills your passport with stamps but also earns you the prestigious Ferman Register certificate, symbolizing your accomplishment in traversing this remarkable path. Prepare for an unforgettable cultural adventure, where every mile is infused with the legacy of empires and the spirit of exploration. Join us as we journey through time and space, discovering the endless variety and richness of the Sultan’s Trail.

The Sultan’s Trail follows historical routes once traversed by Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. This trail, spanning diverse landscapes and cultures across Central Europe and the Balkans, holds significant historical and cultural importance. It not only commemorates Sultan Suleiman’s legacy but also promotes cultural exchange, fostering understanding and unity among the countries along its route while celebrating their shared heritage.

Highlights:

• Ride through 8 countries, from the West to the East and feel the traces that the many different civilizations left on this route.
• Collect stamps in your Pilgrim’s passport on the way and hand it in, in the Tatar village of Sazlibosna to get your Sultan’s Trail certificate.
• Relax and recharge in the famous thermal baths and spas in Budapest, the City of Spas.
• Enjoy the beautiful wine areas between Novi Sad and Belgrade in Serbia, and Osijek and Szekszárd in Croatia.
• Climb the beautiful Serbian mountains and find the Monastery Manasija, with its immense walls and towers.
• Get mesmerized by the magnificent landscapes of and around Stara Planina.
• Have a taste of Rakija, but be careful with this high-in alcohol fruit spirit that’s rich!
• Explore the Bulgarian city of Plovdiv, the European Capital of Culture, in 2019 and one of the oldest cities in Europe.
• Find good coffee around almost every corner in Bulgaria.
• Admire the work of architect Koca Mimar Sinan Aga in Edirne (the previous capital of the Ottoman empire), his personal playground and the Süleymaniye mosque in Istanbul.
• Get surprised by the outstanding Ottoman hospitality.

A big thanks to the academic council of the Sultans Trail Foundation for trusting us to bring this tour to life. The route commemorates Sultan Suleiman's legacy by embracing the shared heritage of the countries we pass through.

Cycle through European History

This epic Central Europe bike trip includes 5 capitals and 5 distinct cultures connected through a historic period that changed the world. It begins in Berlin where the breaking down of the Wall heralded the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War. The route travels back and forth from east to west, crossing the Iron Curtain — the divide between communism and democratic capitalism, between the Soviet Union with its oppressive Red Army and the West and its allied states. The history on this tour is still palpable and unlike our other historic epic adventures, is still remembered by many of us. Take it on as a full Epic over 18 days or break it down into two parts – Berlin to Prague over 7 days or Prague to Budapest over 12 days.

Highlights

• Berlin Wall and its Checkpoint Charlie, which served as a symbol of the Iron Curtain as a whole.
• Connect 5 fascinating European capitals by bike, each with their own culture and unique cuisine.
• Cycle along the rivers and canals that thread their way through the forests that cover much of Eastern Germany.
• Follow the Oder-Neisse River along the Polish border to Görlitz, one of Germany’s most beautiful cities.
• Roll through the castle and fortress filled Czech Middle Mountains along the banks of the Elbe River.
• A rest day in Prague, a city that rivals Paris with its beauty and 1000-year history.
• The Renaissance town of Telč, a jewel of the Czech Republic and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Sampling the world’s best beers, where almost every town has its own brewery; German wheat beers, Czech Pilsner, Austrian Lager and Hungarian ales.
• The now quiet and abandoned cold war fortifications and watchtowers that dot our route as we cross the former Iron Curtain.
• A rest day in beautiful Vienna recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site and often described as an open-air museum.
• Cycle along the Danube Bend region, one of its most scenic, where it enters steep hills, creating stunning meanders with quaint villages hugging its banks.
• Finish in Budapest, an architectural and historical treasure trove, majestically laid out along the Danube.

The Samurai Tour travels through three distinct parts of Japan and immerses us in its spectacular history, culture and landscape.

The Honshu Stage explores the enchanting Noto Peninsula and the Japanese Alps. The Shikoku Stage takes us across the smallest of Japan’s main islands to truly discover the road less travelled. The Mt Fuji Stage travels across Japan through the Alps, around Mt Fuji, to the shores of the Pacific.

Our routes follow ancient and meandering roads, which tend to be smooth, narrow and with very little traffic. The Honshu (the main island) stages offer a smorgasbord of culture and history, from castles and classic gardens to landscapes and towns left mostly unchanged for over 400 years. The Noto & Izu peninsulas evoke the ancient Samurai warriors of days gone by. The Japanese Alps, with its heavy winter snowfalls, prevented some villages from modernising are frozen in time. These living ancient villages are now UNESCO protected and allow us to see how life was lived for hundreds of years and the architecture that made life in such a challenging environment not only possible but highly productive and comfortable.

Kyoto, famous for its temples and garden, is where we spend our rest day between the Honshu and Shikoku Tour. On the Shikoku Island stage, we will cycle through the magnificent Iya Gorge and tackle Mt Ishizuchi, Western Japan’s highest peak at 1982m (6503ft). Enjoy thrilling descents, pass terraced rice paddies, traditional thatched-roof houses, and ancient villages clinging to the mountainsides.

The tour culminates with the spectacular Shimanami Kaido, a series of suspension bridges that connect small islands, offering stunning views of the inland sea and linking Shikoku back to Honshu.

Shikoku is also famous for its pilgrimage of the 88 temples associated with the Buddhist priest Kuka, known as Kobo-Daishi. Modern-day pilgrims, called ‘Henro’ by the locals, still tackle the 1200-kilometre route, many of them sporting traditional white clothing, sedge hats and kongō-zue walking sticks.

Throughout the tour, you’ll stay in a mix of Western-style hotels and traditional Japanese Inns, known as Ryokans. These mountain inns may be different from what you’re used to, with rice-straw mat floors and futon beds, but their charm and authenticity are unparalleled. Most of them also have natural hot spring baths, perfect for relaxing your muscles after a day of exhilarating cycling.

Highlights

• Explore the ancient Samurai roads and learn about this fascinating period in history.
• Indulge yourself in the natural hot springs offered by most of our accommodations.
• Discover the unique tastes of Japanese cuisine that are distinct and varied across the islands.
• Experience the delights of Japanese style inns that offer a very different hotel experience to what you might be used to.