Backroads: The Premier Adventure Travel Company

As an avid traveler seeking adventure, you want to experience the world in an authentic way. You crave active and immersive travel that connects you with the natural surroundings and local culture. Backroads, the premier active travel company, offers luxury biking, walking and multi-adventure tours in destinations around the globe. For over 40 years, Backroads has perfected the art of crafting active travel experiences into journeys of a lifetime. With Backroads, you can pedal through the vineyards of Tuscany, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, kayak the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia or bike the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. Their expert local Trip Leaders and support teams handle all the details and logistics so you can simply enjoy the thrill of adventure and discovery. Whether biking, walking, paddling or multi-adventure, Backroads delivers an unparalleled active travel experience on roads less traveled. Let Backroads take you on your next extraordinary adventure.

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An Introduction to Backroads: How It All Began

Backroads was founded in 1979 by Tom Hale and Jonathan Carduff, two high school friends who shared a passion for cycling and adventure. They launched Backroads as a bike tour company, offering trips in California’s wine country. Over the past 40+ years, Backroads has grown into a leader in active and adventure travel, offering biking, walking, hiking and multi-sport tours around the world.

Backroads aims to provide inspiring outdoor adventures for people of all abilities. They offer easygoing to challenging tour options graded by intensity level. Tours explore scenic backroads and trails, with stays at comfortable inns and hotels along the way. Local guides provide insight into the natural surroundings and regional culture. Most tours are van-supported, so you can ride or walk as much or as little as you like each day.

Backroads tours visit destinations on six continents, including Europe, Asia, South America, New Zealand, and more. Some highly-rated trips include cycling through Tuscany, walking in the Cotswolds, biking in Vietnam and Cambodia, hiking the Inca Trail, and multi-sport adventures in Utah’s national parks. With a variety of tour lengths, styles and activities to choose from, Backroads has something for everyone.

For over 40 years, Backroads has led the way in adventure travel, providing guests with opportunities to connect with nature, challenge themselves, learn about new cultures, and bond with fellow travelers. Their commitment to quality, service, and community shapes every Backroads experience.

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Why Choose Backroads for Your Next Adventure

When planning your next adventure travel experience, consider Backroads for an unparalleled active getaway. Backroads designs award-winning biking, hiking and multi-adventure tours led by experienced guides to provide an authentic experience of the local culture.

Why Choose Backroads

Backroads trips offer a perfect combination of activity and leisure. Their tours incorporate scenic routes with stops at notable landmarks, all at an unhurried pace so you can truly immerse yourself in the surroundings. With Backroads, you’ll enjoy:

Small Group Camaraderie – Backroads limits group sizes to an average of 14 guests so you can bond with like-minded travelers.
Top-Notch Gear – Backroads provides high-quality bikes, helmets and other equipment so you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.
Luxurious Accommodations – Backroads handpicks comfortable lodgings, from charming inns to luxury hotels, located in stunning settings. Many meals are also included.
Safety and Support – Two expert guides accompany each tour to handle logistics, provide support and ensure your safety so you can adventure with confidence.
Custom Options – Can’t find your perfect trip? Backroads will customize a private tour based on your specific interests, schedule and budget.

Whether biking through vineyards in Italy, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or kayaking in Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, a Backroads adventure will create lifelong memories. Their commitment to active travel, quality and service excellence has made them the leader in adventure travel for over 40 years. For your most rewarding adventure yet, choose Backroads.

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The Backroads Difference: What Sets Them Apart

Customized Itineraries

Backroads creates unique itineraries tailored to your interests and activity level. Their travel experts handcraft each trip to showcase the best of the destination through routes that avoid crowds and reveal hidden gems. Itineraries highlight cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, culinary encounters, and opportunities to connect with local communities. Whether you prefer a rigorous multi-sport adventure or a leisurely exploration focused on food and wine, Backroads has an itinerary for you.

Exceptional Guides

Backroads guides are experienced, certified professionals passionate about the locations they lead trips in. Guides handle all the details and do everything possible to ensure your comfort and safety. They share insights into the local culture and environment that you wouldn’t discover on your own. Guides become your hosts, concierges, and new friends, enriching your travel experience through their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Premium Accommodations and Dining

Lodging and meals are an essential part of any travel experience. Backroads selects comfortable, conveniently located hotels, inns, and lodges that capture the spirit of the destination. They choose dining options known for high quality, locally-sourced ingredients and authentic regional cuisine. All meals during your Backroads trip, from snacks to multi-course dinners, are included in the trip price. Whether enjoying an elegant restaurant or a simple picnic in the countryside, you will savor the flavors of the local food and wine.

Top Equipment and Support

Backroads provides high-quality bikes, e-bikes, and equipment sized specifically for each guest. Their support vans are always close at hand in case you need a lift or want your gear transported ahead. The staff handles bike assembly and repair, luggage transport, and any other needs that arise during your trip so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

Backroads’ commitment to meticulous planning, exceptional guides, premium amenities, and full support allows you to immerse yourself in the adventure and culture of your destination. Their goal is for you to return home with memories that will last far longer than your vacation. By eliminating hassles and handling details, Backroads enables you to discover the essence of a place and connect with loved ones in a meaningful way.

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Amazing Destinations: The World Is Your Playground

Exotic Locations Around the Globe

Backroads offers over 50 destinations across 6 continents for adventure seekers looking to explore the world. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the Great Wall of China, Backroads provides guided tours to some of the most iconic places on the planet.

Majestic Natural Wonders

For those looking to experience the power and beauty of nature, Backroads offers tours to stunning natural landmarks like the Galápagos Islands, Iguazu Falls, and New Zealand’s scenic South Island. You can gaze at the thundering Victoria Falls in Zambia, spot giant tortoises in their native habitat, or kayak through glacier lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Cultural Immersion

Backroads aims to provide an authentic experience of the local culture in each destination. You can explore colorful markets in Marrakesh, learn about Mayan history from a local guide at Chichén Itzá, or take a tango lesson in Buenos Aires. Backroads tours often include meals at popular local restaurants, interactions with artisans and craftspeople, and opportunities to learn about regional culinary traditions, music, religion, and more.

Adventure Activities

For thrill-seekers, Backroads offers active tours featuring cycling, hiking, paddling and more in some of the world’s most stunning outdoor destinations. You can bike through vineyards in Tuscany, hike the scenic trails of the Canadian Rockies, or paddle the rivers of Costa Rica’s rainforest. With a variety of activity levels to choose from, both novice and expert adventurers can experience an active getaway perfectly suited to their abilities.

From the exotic to the extreme, Backroads provides access to amazing destinations all over the world. With nearly 50 years of experience crafting luxury adventure travel tours, Backroads offers unparalleled expertise and service to help you explore the planet in style. The world is your playground with Backroads.

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Choosing Your Perfect Backroads Trip

Identify Your Interests

To choose the perfect Backroads adventure for you, first determine what types of activities and experiences you find most appealing. Do you prefer cycling, walking, or multi-sport trips? Are you interested in culinary tours, family trips, or private custom tours? Backroads offers small group trips focused on over 60 activities in destinations around the globe.

Select a Destination

With operations in over 60 countries, the options for where to travel with Backroads are extensive. You may want to consider destinations featuring stunning natural scenery, cultural attractions, or that offer a specific activity. For example, choose Tuscany for cycling, New Zealand for walking, or Costa Rica for multi-sport. Backroads’ travel experts can provide recommendations based on your interests.

Choose a Trip Length

Backroads trips range from 3 to 21 days to accommodate any schedule. Shorter getaways of 3 to 5 days are ideal if you only have a limited time to travel. The most popular trip lengths are 1 to 2 weeks, allowing enough time to immerse yourself in the destination without feeling rushed. For a more in-depth experience, consider a longer 2 to 3 week journey.

Consider Your Accommodations

On most Backroads trips, you’ll stay in comfortable hotels, inns, lodges and resorts handpicked for their amenities, service, and proximity to activities. Some itineraries feature deluxe or luxury accommodations for an upgraded experience. You also have the option to camp on multi-sport trips for a more rugged adventure. Accommodation upgrades are available on most trips.

Travel Solo or with Friends/Family

Over half of Backroads travelers join trips on their own. Solo travelers appreciate the camaraderie of an instant group of like-minded new friends. Of course, many guests also travel with friends, family, or as a private group. Backroads aims to accommodate different paces and interests, so you can spend as much or as little time with the group as you like.

With the world as your playground, a Backroads adventure is a perfect way to reconnect with loved ones or forge new friendships while engaging in meaningful activities together. By determining your interests, selecting a destination, choosing a trip length, considering your accommodations, and deciding whether to travel solo or with others, you’ll be on your way to finding your ideal Backroads escape. The hardest part will be deciding where to go first!

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Preparing for Your Backroads Adventure

To prepare for your Backroads adventure, there are several important steps to take. Following these recommendations will help ensure you have a safe, enjoyable experience.

Book Your Trip in Advance

Backroads trips often fill up quickly, so booking 4 to 6 months ahead of your desired travel dates is recommended. This will guarantee your spot and allow ample time to prepare. You can book on Backroads’ website or by calling their travel specialists.

Obtain Proper Documentation

Make sure you have a valid passport and any required visas for your destination. Backroads will provide details on entry requirements in your pre-trip information. Allow at least 4 to 6 weeks to obtain a passport and the recommended time to acquire visas.

Get in Shape

While Backroads adventures are designed for casual cyclists and active travelers of all abilities, a basic level of fitness will enhance your experience. Start an exercise routine in the months leading up to your trip that includes cardio exercise, strength training, and flexibility work. Even taking short walks or hikes regularly can help. The fitter you are, the more you’ll be able to enjoy all activities.

Pack Essentials

Carefully review the packing list provided by Backroads to ensure you bring all essential gear like a helmet, cycling shoes, rain jacket, and comfortable clothes for cycling and walking. Don’t forget everyday items like medications, chargers, camera, and cash. Pack clothing that can be layered and used for multiple purposes. Keep in mind that luggage space on Backroads trips is limited, so pack efficiently.

Attend a Pre-Trip Meeting

Backroads hosts pre-trip meetings via phone or webinar about 2 weeks before your departure date. They review important details about your itinerary, accommodations, transportation, and gear. Ask any last-minute questions you may have. These meetings are very helpful for feeling fully prepared.

With some advance planning and preparation, your Backroads adventure will be an unforgettable experience. By following these steps, you’ll embark on your trip with confidence, ready to make the most of all the activities and discoveries along the way. The rewards of the open road await!

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Accommodations and Dining: Comfort and Culinary Delights

Backroads provides comfortable, high-quality accommodations that capture the essence of the local culture. You’ll stay in boutique hotels, eco-lodges, historic inns, and even private villas, ranging from 3 to 5 stars. All rooms have en suite bathrooms, and many offer additional amenities like balconies, fireplaces, and stunning views.

Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels are stylish, intimate properties with a unique character. They offer personalized service and upscale amenities like spas, gourmet restaurants, and cocktail lounges. Some boutique hotels Backroads uses are the Post Hotel in Lake Louise, Canada and the Hotel Santa Caterina in Amalfi Coast, Italy.

Eco-Lodges

For those who prefer an authentic nature experience, Backroads offers eco-lodges. These sustainable properties are in remote, scenic locations and offer a chance to unplug from technology. Accommodations are simple yet comfortable, with amenities focused on the surrounding natural environment. Some eco-lodges Backroads uses are the Pacuare Lodge in Costa Rica and the Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in Kenya.

Historic Inns

Backroads chooses historic inns known for their charm, architecture, and cultural significance. These lodgings have been meticulously restored to preserve their heritage while providing modern comforts. Amenities celebrate the inn’s history and location. Some historic inns Backroads uses are the Hotel Les Mars in Healdsburg, California and the Hotel d’Europe in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Dining is also an important part of the Backroads experience. Most meals are included in your trip price and feature fresh, locally-sourced ingredients prepared in the traditional style of the region. Backroads aims to give you an authentic taste of the local culinary culture at every destination. Whether enjoying a picnic lunch in the countryside, a bistro dinner in Paris or tapas in Barcelona, your taste buds will be delighted and satisfied after every Backroads dining experience.

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Family Adventures: Trips of a Lifetime for All Ages

Customized Family Itineraries

Backroads offers a variety of family biking, hiking and multi-adventure tours designed for families with kids ages 4 and up. Their family tour leaders are experienced in keeping children engaged and excited. Each tour is tailored to the interests and skill levels of your family. Whether you prefer easygoing explorations or more active challenges, Backroads has an itinerary for you.

Age-Appropriate Activities

Backroads designs kid-friendly activities for all ages. For younger kids, there are scavenger hunts, swimming, kayaking, craft projects and games. Older kids and teens can go rock climbing, whitewater rafting, zip lining and more, depending on the destination. The pace is geared toward families, with shorter days and more time for relaxing. All equipment is provided, so you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about lugging gear.

Deluxe Accommodations and Dining

Backroads chooses comfortable lodging and dining options for families, from stylish hotels to private villas. Most meals are included, featuring kid-approved fare as well as gourmet options for adults. Their trip leaders can also accommodate special diets if needed. At the end of each activity-filled day, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with your family and new friends, sharing stories from your adventures.

A Backroads family adventure is the perfect opportunity to strengthen your family bonds through a shared experience exploring the world. You’ll return home with memories that will last a lifetime. Their dedicated family trip leaders ensure your vacation is fun, rewarding and stress-free. If you’re looking for an extraordinary family getaway, a Backroads family biking or multi-adventure tour should be at the top of your list.

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FAQs About Traveling With Backroads

What types of trips does Backroads offer?

Backroads offers a variety of guided and self-guided active travel adventures worldwide. Their trips include:

Biking tours: Road biking, mountain biking and bike & barge tours in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
Walking & hiking tours: Guided walking tours in Europe, South America, New Zealand and more.
Multi-adventure tours: Trips that combine biking, walking, kayaking, sailing and other activities. These multi-sport tours are available in locations like Croatia, Vietnam, Morocco and others.
Family trips: Backroads designs family-friendly biking, hiking and multi-adventure tours for all ages and ability levels.

Do I need to be an expert cyclist or hiker to join a Backroads trip?

No, Backroads trips are designed for people of all abilities. They offer trips for casual cyclists and hikers as well as more advanced options for experienced travelers. Most guests are recreational riders or hikers who exercise occasionally at home. Backroads provides top-notch equipment like comfortable bikes with multiple gearing options as well as helmets, and they set a pace that allows you to enjoy the scenery.

What is included on a Backroads trip?

Backroads all-inclusive trips include:

Expert trip leaders: Friendly, knowledgeable guides who handle all the details and support your needs.
High-quality gear: Comfortable bikes, helmets, walking poles, etc. depending on your activity.
Accommodations: Carefully selected hotels, inns and lodges. Most offer historical charm, natural beauty, premium amenities, and convenient access to your activities.
Most meals: Hearty breakfasts, lunches, snacks and dinners featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Fine regional wines and beers are included with some dinners.
Support vehicles: For luggage transport, mechanical assistance, snacks, water, lifts between activities and emergencies.
Unique extras: Wine tastings, cultural visits, scenic tours and more, depending on your itinerary.
Pre-trip planning: Assistance from Backroads specialists to prepare for your adventure.

In summary, Backroads aims to handle all the details so you can just show up, gear up and enjoy your dream active vacation. Their goal is to make adventure travel as rewarding and carefree as possible for people of all abilities.

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Conclusion

As you have seen, Backroads offers unparalleled luxury adventure travel experiences for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural wonders of the world. With over 40 years of experience curating active travel itineraries, Backroads provides the highest quality guides, equipment, and accommodations to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Whether biking through Tuscany, hiking the Inca Trail, or kayaking Halong Bay, Backroads aims to inspire your sense of adventure and foster meaningful connections with both your surroundings and your fellow travelers. By crafting these meticulously-designed adventures in a sustainable and socially-conscious way, Backroads enables you to embark on the journey of a lifetime while giving back to the communities and environments you explore. For your next luxury adventure, look no further than Backroads, the premier active travel company. The world awaits.