cycling trips for singles

• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Solo cycling vacations

Small group cycling vacations for solo travelers.

Singles cycling trips

Have you ever thought about pedaling around Poland, cycling around Cyprus or seeing Burma by bicycle? Our highly popular  Cycling trips  offer small group cycling vacations to some of the world's most wonderful locations which are ideal for seeing on two wheels, and make great singles cycling vacations as you can enjoy all the thrill of solo travel but without traveling alone.

Led by our knowledgeable and expert cycle trip leaders, Explore group cycling vacations offer trip options for every level of cyclist. No matter whether you're a keen cyclist who'd like to take a solo cycling vacation to an exciting new destination, or you enjoy the occasional bike ride, but would like to discover a new part of the world in one of the most exhilarating ways, we're sure you'll find a cycling trip to suit you.  

Group cycling vacations at your ideal pace

It's your adventure - so choose the pace of your cycling vacation that's just right for you. Our group cycling tours take a variety of paces, in cycling grades from Easy to Moderate to Challenging, so there's a cycling vacation for solo travelers of any level of experience or fitness.

You'll find detailed information about each of our cycling trips on the individual trip page, including the duration, itinerary and cycling grade, so you can find your perfect cycling adventure. Whichever one you choose, you can look forward to being guided by our expert cycling trip group leaders, and sharing your experience with like-minded and friendly people who may be couples, families, or fellow solo travelers.

Oh, and don't worry about having to bring your own bike - we'll provide one for you. Along with your daily activities, travel and some or all of your meals, it's already included in the cost of your trip!  

Tour a new destination on two wheels

Europe is especially bicycle-friendly, and we offer a wide choice of European group cycling vacations so you can discover a new destination, or see one of your favorite countries in a new way. Take a leisurely paced  cycling trip in France  down the  Canal Du Midi , seeing ancient Roman cities and the stunning Corbières region along the way or feel the sun on your face as you cycle the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia.

Or, if you'd like to take a solo cycling vacation in Europe that's close to home, our best-selling  Cycling Coast to Coast  offers you the opportunity to see some of the UK's most stunning scenery - and maybe even complete a lifelong challenge.

Should you wish to venture even further afield on your singles cycling vacation, we've an exciting range of group cycling vacations to Central and South America. Vibrant and historic Cuba is one of our most popular destinations of all for solo travelers, and you can decide whether you'd like to take a relaxed trip to see  Highlights of Cuba by Bicycle  or  Cycle Cuba  at a keener pace.

Asia is a particularly fascinating continent to see by bike, and on our cycling tips such as  Cycle Saigon to Hanoi , Cycle Kerala , and Cycle Burma , we'll take you through regions typically unseen by tourists and make the most of the opportunities offered by traveling by bike. Wherever you choose to take your cycling adventure vacation with Explore, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

Our most popular solo cycling tours

Cycle southern spain - murcia.

Cycle Jordan

Cycle the Dalmatian Coast

Cycle Saigon to Hanoi

Cycle Cuba!

Cycling the Baltic States

Other solo vacation ideas

Solo vacations, solo adventure vacations, solo walking vacations, solo vacations for over 30s, solo vacations for over 40s, solo vacations for over 50s, solo vacations for over 60s.

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Top 10 trips for solo travelers

7 questions answered for your first cycling trip

Solo travel guide for women

5 ways to prepare for your first cycling trip

10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

Our new website is live! Complimentary champagne when you book before 30 June

• Our Destinations
• Popular Holidays
• Self Guided
• Short Breaks

Destinations

• United Kingdom

All Destinations

Our top picks, regions in france, loire valley, regions in italy, campania & amalfi, emilia romagna, south tyrol, regions in the uk, regions in spain, regions in portugal, douro valley, holiday types, cycling holidays europe, luxury cycling holidays, e-bike holidays, beginners cycling holidays, bespoke cycling holidays, châteaux cycling holidays, eco-friendly cycling holidays, family cycling holidays, bike and boat holidays, self guided cycling holidays, group cycling holidays, guided cycling holidays, last minute cycling holidays, new cycling tours, short break cycling holidays, single centre cycling holidays, solo cycling holidays, self-drive holidays, our top picks.

• About Cycling for Softies
• Our Sustainability

Book With Confidence

We want to inspire complete confidence in you so that when you book with Cycling for Softies, you enjoy peace of mind.

Cycling for Softies holidays have all been crafted by people who loves cycling and exploring as much as our guests do.

Our Experts

Meet the Softies experts who are on hand to tailor make your perfect luxury cycling holiday in the glorious wine regions of Europe.

Our Sustainability Practices

Our approach to sustainability.

We’re committed to preserving the places we love to visit on our holidays.

World Bicycle Relief

Read about our partnership with World Bicycle Relief and the amazing work they do.

ATG Sustainability Report 2024

Our commitment to being an industry leader in sustainability performance.

Holiday Information

Once your cycling holiday is booked, our client services team are on hand to help with every step along the way.

Our experts share their wisdom on some FAQs asked in the run-up to a Cycling for Softies holiday.

Ride With GPS

Learn more about your digital tour guide. Explore the wine regions of Europe at your own pace thanks to Ride With GPS.

• Most Popular
• View All Posts

January 26th 2021

Best Cycle Routes in Europe

August 24th 2018

Best Cycle Routes in France

September 16th 2020

Best Cycling Routes in Italy

August 11th 2021

Tuscany Cycling Routes

March 5th 2021

Cotswold Cycling Routes

November 21st 2018

Bordeaux Cycling Routes

February 2nd 2018

Normandy Cycling Routes

February 2nd 2022

Provence Cycling Routes

November 12th 2021

Loire Valley Cycling Routes

July 8th 2022

Alsace Cycling Routes

Popular posts.

August 25th 2020

Best Cycling Holidays in Europe

January 31st 2020

Best Easy Cycling Routes in Europe

February 13th 2017

Romantic Cycling Holidays

November 25th 2016

Tuscany and Umbria E-Bike Tours

October 31st 2016

10 Tips for Cycling Holidays with Kids

November 11th 2021

Best Self Guided Tours in Europe

Our bike tours for single travellers are the perfect way to travel solo and meet like-minded people. Explore with your expert guide, following one of our carefully curated itineraries.

Solo Bike Trips

Bike tours for single travellers.

If you are a single traveller looking to go away on a cycling holiday, then we can introduce you to a choice of itineraries that are ideal for solo cycling holidays.

If you would like to join up with a group of like-minded cyclists to spend your holiday with, then why not try one of our guided tours? Our Bike & Boat holidays are a brilliant sociable option, where you will board your floating hotel and wind your way down Europe’s most scenic rivers to a new cycling destination each day. Relaxed, sociable evenings can be spent dining as a group on board the boat, whilst during the day you can set off on a solo cycle or explore with the group.

All of our guided group tours come with knowledgeable, local guides who can introduce you to the best spots in a region and provide expert knowledge and insight.

Call our experts to find out more about solo cycling holidays in the wine regions of Europe today.

Why Book With Us?

• 40 years’ creating tailor-made holidays
• Crafted by experts who love cycling
• Boutique hotels and gourmet dining
• Local support in destination
• Luggage transferred between your hotels
• Fully serviced hybrid and e-bikes
• ABTA & ATOL protected

Inspiration for Solo Cycling Holidays More Inspiration for Solo Cycling Holidays

September 18th 2023

Best Cycling Holidays for Singles

August 12th 2022

Best Cycling Destinations UK

April 20th 2022

15 Best Cycling Destinations in Europe

We can tailor-make a holiday to suit you….

We have a team of experts on hand to help you choose the perfect holiday. From a luxury cycling holiday weekend in Tuscany to a big adventure in through the Loire Valley, we’re whatever you want your holiday to be.

A Family of Six Expert Travel Companies

Stay in touch.

Sign up here to receive all the latest cycling news, cycling holiday inspiration and our best offers, directly into your inbox.

" * " indicates required fields

All details provided by you will be held in accordance with our Privacy Policy

Book your next cycling holiday

To peruse our tours and guides from the comfort of your home, simply fill out the form below to access our digital Cycling for Softies brochure.

Tailwind on every ride? – See e-bike trips

European Classic booking fast – see the trips

• Request a Catalog
• 866-464-8735

Select Date Range

Popular searches.

California Wine Country Bike Tour

Croatia and The Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour

Mallorca 7-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Tuscany Bike Tour

Self-Guided Bike Tours

Explore favorite destinations at your pace on a self-guided bike tour. we handle hotels, itinerary, and suggestions; the rest is yours to enjoy..

World-class cycling your way. Ever wanted to take adventure into your own hands without worrying about the nuts and bolts of making it happen? Now you can do just that. Our self-guided bike tours combine the freedom to explore your favorite destinations your way with the best parts of any Trek Travel itinerary—curated routes and itinerary suggestions at your fingertips, world-class Trek bikes, and the best accommodations along the way. You just have to wake up and go. View Self-Guided Bike Tours Travel Info

Showing Trips

Destinations

Rider level, hotel level.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group 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.

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.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

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.

Activity Level

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).

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).

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).

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.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

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.

Single Occupancy

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

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

• FIND YOUR NEXT BIKE TOUR
• BIKE TOUR CALENDAR
• SOUTHERN US
• MULTI-SPORT TRIPS
• NATIONAL PARKS
• NEW ENGLAND
• SOUTH AMERICA
• SHORTER BIKE TOURS
• WARM WINTER TRIPS
• SPRING TRIPS
• SUMMER TRIPS
• WHY TRAVEL WITH SOJOURN?
• SOJOURN TEAM
• PAST GUESTS -COMPASS CLUB
• MEDIA CENTER
• THE EXPERIENCE
• GUEST REVIEWS
• RIDE STRONG VERMONT
• INTERNATIONAL GROUP TRAVEL OFFER
• BIKES & EQUIPMENT
• TRAVEL INSURANCE
• SOJOURN WEB STORE
• TERMS & CONDITIONS
• REFER A FRIEND
• EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT
• TRAVEL ADVISOR PROGRAM

Popular for Solo Travelers

Bike | hike | kayak | culinary & historical exploration.

Whether you love the thrill of setting off on an adventure on your own or are always keen to make new like-minded friends, you will feel right at home on a Sojourn bike tour. Our expert team of tour leaders is unmatched at creating a fun camaraderie, which is why so many of our solo travelers end up with new lifelong travel companions and friends! Don’t let traveling alone hold you back from experiencing the trip of a lifetime.

Palm Springs & Joshua Tree National Park Bike Tour

Palm Springs CA

Bike through the stunning landscapes of Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. Enjoy great cycling routes, extraordinary hiking, and distinctive accommodations. Explore the park's unworldly boulder formations and hike the acclaimed trails offering the right mix of Joshua Trees, cacti, history, and the most spectacular views of the desert basins on this freshly redesigned four days/ three nights trip.

Give us a Call: 800-730-4771

Bike Tour Savannah and Charleston

Savannah, GA / Charleston, SC

On our Savannah to Charleston bike tour, cycle along a 200-mile stretch of coastal South Carolina and Georgia and enjoy Southern hospitality. This relatively easier cycling trip will take you through and around the historic Savannah, GA, Gorgeous Beaufort, and Charming Charleston, SC. Explore a region with an aristocratic charm draped in southern hospitality, fascinating history, charming Victorian and Antebellum architectures, delectable cuisine, and a quintessential scenic character.

California Wine Country Bike Tour

Healdsburg, California

With more than 425 wineries, miles of stunning Pacific coastline, and a towering Redwood Forest, California's Sonoma Wine Country and Coast is a travel paradise. World-class wineries and vineyards await and we visit the magnificent Russian River, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valleys, each distinguished by their unique terrain and wines.

Cape Cod Bike Tour – Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts

Experience one of New England’s most beloved seacoast vacation destinations on our Cape Cod bike trip.Artists have long been drawn to the Cape’s landscapes and soft light. Unspoiled sand dunes line beaches for nearly 30 miles along the Cape Cod National Seashore. Charming villages feature historic homes and picturesque harbors that still host working fishing fleets. Country roads and the Cape Cod Rail Trail invite exploration by bicycle.

Vermont to Quebec Bike Tour

Burlington, Vermont

Set out on an unforgettable Quebec bike tour in the charming lakeside city of Burlington, Vermont. The trip takes you through a picturesque expanse of farmland stitched together like a quilt on the Champlain Islands into Canada. Board the ferry across the majestic St. Lawrence River to the storied Chemin du Roy. This historic route, once the main road between Montreal and Quebec City, is now a cyclist's dream. Get closer to the heart of French Canada as you ride along the north shore of St. Lawrence. As we savor the region's culinary heritage, pause to enjoy the craftsmanship of an organic fromagerie. Explore Quebec City's storied cobblestone streets and walls on a walking tour. Discover a cycling paradise in the rural tranquility of Ile d'Orleans.

Texas Hill Country Bike Tour

San Antonio, Texas

On our Texas bike tour, explore one of the best places in the country for scenic and peaceful bicycling - The Hill Country. Tour the historic and beautiful LBJ Ranch by bike. Cycle to the legendary country music hamlet of Luckenbach. Visit famous historic sites, including the Alamo, El Mercado, and La Villita, and ride the Mission Trail.

New York Finger Lakes Bike Tour

Rochester, NY | Syracuse, NY

Home to breathtaking scenery and world-class wineries, this tour features gorgeous rolling terrain that showcases expansive vistas of farmland, vineyards, and narrow fingers of the lakes for which this region of Upstate New York is named. Cyclists who enjoy scenic rides on lightly traveled roads through rolling countryside will be enthralled by our routes in the Finger Lakes region. Vineyards compete with cows and other crops throughout the tour as Yates County is the largest grower of wine grapes outside of California, boasting over 5,000 acres of lush plantings.

• View All Trips

What’s Included

• OPEN POSITIONS

STAY CONNECTED:

Featured in.

• Enter Email Here... *

• Hawaii’s Big Island

San Juan Islands

• ————-
• Loire, France

Provence, France

Puglia, italy.

• Pyrenees, France

Tuscany, Italy

• Self-Guided Cycling Tours
• Guided Bike Tours
• Guest Reviews
• Local Cycling Guides

PRIVATE TOUR SPECIALISTS SINCE 2004

World class cycling destinations, personalization and flexibility: your dates and duration, five-star service and support, your group, your way.

Since 2004, our unique blend of custom itineraries and personal service has been delivering perfect cycling vacations for those who want to explore on their own terms.

Our Self-Guided tours are great for singles, couples and smaller groups who enjoy exploring independently with support in the background. Our Private Guided tours are great for larger groups looking for full time support. With all our tours, you choose your start date, the length of your tour, and your preferred style of accommodation.

All our tours are private . During your transfers, bike fitting, and route briefings, your guide is focused on just you rather than having to cater to a large group. Each day, we provide several ride options from leisure to challenge.

Our tours are Climate Neutral . We believe it is our responsibility to help protect the beautiful areas that our tours visit as well as the climate that supports them. For this reason, all our tours are carbon neutral. We also donate 10% of our profits to non-profit organizations in the communities in which we operate.

d Design Your Tour

Tell us about your perfect tour so that we can customize an itinerary.

Where do you want to go?

• All Regions
• North America

Hawaii's Big Island

Loire Valley, France

The Pyrenees, France

Catalonia, Spain

Southwest Ireland

Douro Valley, Portugal

Istrian Peninsula, Croatia

Where do you want to stay?

Simple B&Bs and more modest hotels but all well-kept with en suite facilities

Nice B&Bs and more modest inns or hotels. The B&Bs typically include welcome drinks and great breakfasts.

Smaller hotels or luxurious B&Bs with very personal service often including wine tasting

Some of the nicest full-service hotels in the area. Typically include spa facilities and a restaurant.

Some of the nicest full-service hotels in the area. Typically include a pool and a good restaurant

When, how many days and how many in your party?

Let us know when you would like to travel, how long you would like your tour to be and how many people might be in your party.

What else should we know?

Tell us more about you and what you're interested in! While completely optional, providing us with more information helps us design the perfect tour for you.

Where should we send your custom itinerary?

Thank you for providing us with your tour preferences. The next step will be for us to contact you with a prepared itinerary which we can further customize. We will be in touch soon!

Thank you for your submission. We will be in contact very soon!

how are we different?

In short, more customized itineraries and more personalized service.

Our destinations in brief

April through October

For all riding levels. E-bikes available.

A cycling tour in Provence delivers history, culture, and varied landscapes dotted with medieval villages, abbeys, and castles. It's a bike trip you'll never forget, from the lavender fields to the food and wine - including Châteauneuf‐du‐Pape - awaiting you daily. More ...

Design My Trip

June through September

For Intermediate riders and up

Tour the majestic natural border between France and Spain on your bicycle! Cycling in the Pyrenees is complete with rugged mountains, epic climbs and descents, and an annual visit by the Tour de France. You're still in France, so enjoy the food and wine along the way. More ...

- Holland -

Dutch sampler.

The bicycle rules! Charming historic towns and villages are all connected with a world-leading cycling infrastructure. Take in the Dutch landscape with its waterways, seasonal flowers, and windmills. Enjoy the separation between bicycles and cars. More ...

- Ireland -

The west coast.

Ireland's rugged natural beauty of rolling green hills, moss-covered moors, and sheer ocean cliffs make it a unique cycling destination. Ride by Bronze-age stone circles, medieval castles and ancient monasteries. More ...

March through November

Cycling in Puglia along Italy's majestic Adriatic coastline within its less traveled heel is full of timeless beauty and very diverse architecture. 1,000 year old olive groves and unique hilltop villages make cycling in this portion of Italy a bucket list experience. More ...

For intermediate riders and up*. E-bikes available

A Tuscany cycling tour is one medieval village to the next, rolling golden hills, and unsurpassed food and wine. This region is a must see when cycling in Italy, from its Unesco heritage sites to its rich history, art and culture. More ...

- Portugal -

The douro valley.

Spring, Early and Late Summer, Fall

For intermediate riders and up

Granite bluffs, terraced vineyards, and whitewashed villages, the Douro Valley in Portugal’s north has some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe – and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the region along quiet lanes that snake their way up and down the steep-sided valleys. Visit medieval houses, grand churches, quaint villages, and excellent museums. The area is also one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world, with wine – especially Port wine – having been produced here for over 2,000 years. More ...

With a sunny climate and stunning landscapes, Catalonia offers some of the best bike riding in the world. The quiet, bike-friendly roads snake past ancient villages, through forests and along the Mediterranean coast. The backdrops include rugged mountains, rolling farmland, and the sea. More ...

- United States -

Hawaii's big island.

Hawaii bike rides are like no other. You'll experience cycling in Hawaii's highlands and tropical Kona coast lowlands. Active volcanoes will rarely be out of sight. Of course, a cycling trip in Hawaii must include the island's coastal beauty, beaches, and water activities. More ...

OREGON'S COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

This Oregon cycling tour delivers the Historic Columbia River Highway paralleling the stunning Columbia River Gorge, consistently rated as one of the best rides in the USA. Combine this bike ride with a Willamette Valley tour to experience what cycling Oregon has to offer. More ...

OREGON'S WILLAMETTE VALLEY

For beginner and intermediate riders. E-bikes available.

Snow capped volcanoes including Mt. Adams and Mt. Hood, world class wine country cycling, very gently rolling farmland. A quieter alternative to California Wine Country cycling, Oregon is a must do bike tour destination in the USA. More ...

SAN JUAN ISLANDS

San Juan Islands cycling features rolling farm land, hidden coves, island living and abundant wildlife. Experience several islands, and ride along roads where speed limits rarely exceed 40. Gaze out at the mainland coast and the Olympic peninsula with its snowcapped mountains. Enjoy small towns with a unique friendliness rarely found elsewhere. More ...

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations
• Central & South America

12 Unforgettable Vacations That Are Best Done by Bike — Even for Beginner Cyclists

Discover these epic bicycle tours from Croatia to Chile.

There’s no better way to see the world than on two wheels.

You don’t have to be a Tour de France rider to enjoy a long, scenic cycle, either. Everywhere in the world — from the United States to France to Japan — you’ll find excellent bike tours that cater to beginners.

Cycling has been a favorite pastime for people around the globe since the 19th century. The bicycle was invented by Karl Freiherr von Drais in Germany; it was a rather cumbersome “running machine” that didn’t involve pedals, steering, or brakes. When the “modern” safety bicycle was invented by John Kemp Starley in England, it allowed for a free, stable ride — and just like that, cycling started to become a beloved hobby.

Today, along with hiking, mountain climbing, and camping, cycling is one of the most popular outdoor activities for travelers. There are many excellent biking destinations that are perfect for cyclists young and old, experienced and inexperienced. You can take a ride through the mountains in Switzerland or even hop from island to island in the Philippines, Japan, or Croatia with your bike in tow. Ahead, find beautiful biking destinations to plan your vacation around.

Puglia, Italy

In Puglia there are numerous bike tours where you can set your own pace based on your cycling experience and trip type. There’s truly something for everyone — from beginners to advanced cyclists. Give yourself about 10 days to cycle as much of the heel of Italy's boot as possible, patching together an epic route out of country roads and uncongested coastal trails. Along the way, you'll pass through villages, along olive orchards, and by UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Many cyclists start among the historic surrounds of Sassi di Matera and pedal towards the coast.

Burgundy and Champagne, France

Sign us up for a trip that involves some easy-going cycling, then rewarded with delicious wine. This region of France is famous for its grapes and cuisine, but it’s also a wonderful place to take in the fresh air and pedal your way through the countryside. Paved and dirt cycle paths cut through sprawling vineyards from Reims, aka "the gateway to Champagne. They wind across Épernay and to the start of the Canal entre Champagne et Bourgogne, which will lead you into the heart of Burgundy. Go ahead and stop at a few vineyards to sample wines along the way; it’s highly encouraged.

Connemara, Ireland

You can see the best of the Emerald Isle by taking one of the many guided or self-guided bike tours in this western region of Ireland. The Connemara Lazy Days tour is particularly popular for beginner cyclists who want a good ride without too much effort. The route loops around part of the Renvyle peninsula, the scenic moorlands and heather-cloaked hills of the Inagh Valley, and fishing villages, typically starting and ending in Clifden, a market town on the coast. The tour entails traveling short distances by bike while enjoying the region’s culture and attractions.

Land’s End, United Kingdom

Cycling from Land’s End in Cornwall, England, to John o’ Groats in Scotland is a classic ride that’s probably for a slightly more experienced rider but makes for an excellent trip nonetheless. This scenic, 1,000-mile trip typically takes between two and three weeks and you’ll see some of the very best United Kingdom vistas along the way. Highlights of the journey include cycling through the beautiful Cheddar Gorge (birthplace of the cheese), numerous castles and abbeys, and city stops in Bristol, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

Lake Constance, Austria

You can actually start a bicycle tour around Lake Constance from either Austria, Germany, or Switzerland, depending on your preference. This massive lake isn’t just beautiful, but it also makes for a highly customizable ride. You can break up the trip into challenging long rides or several short days with stops in the many beautiful lakeside towns. This route, comprised of both paved cycle paths and quiet roads, is easy and flat. You'll get epic mountain views, though, thanks to its proximity to the Alps.

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

If you’re not into going long distances, try an island-hopping cycling tour where you pedal across the land, then take a boat to the next isle to do it all again. Start in Split or Dubrovnik and pedal your way through the old cities, then hop over to Hvar, Brač, or Korčula. Croatia also has the 100-mile Ćiro trail that connects the country and nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina, if you’re looking for more of a challenge.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

If you’re looking for a cyclist’s paradise, look no further than Amsterdam. The bike-friendly city has always been welcoming to car-free living, so even the most inexperienced of cyclists can get around easily on two wheels. Of course, since many locals commute by bike, be sure to stay out of the way if you’re in the mood for a slow, scenic ride. Or, better yet, take a guided tour with a local who will take you for a drink at the pub and show you museums along the way.

Colchagua Valley, Chile

Cycling and wine tasting isn’t just for the French. This beautiful region of Chile is also famous for its wines and is an excellent spot for cyclists to take a leisurely, scenic ride with stops for vino along the way. Depending on the kind of vacation you want, you can opt for a more active bike ride or plan for a few short stints that allow for extra wine tasting. There are a few different routes you can take out into the grapevine-covered countryside, mostly following roads, but Santa Cruz is a good place to start no matter which way you go.

Palisade, Colorado

If you haven’t been to the Fruit and Wine Byway , now’s your chance to start planning a trip. The beautiful, 25-mile East Orchard Mesa Loop, one of three planned routes along the byway, through Colorado’s little-known wine country and peach groves might be the best late-summer excursion any cyclist could plan. Travel through the fragrant orchards and lavender fields and breeze along the legendary Colorado River, stopping frequently at tasting rooms on the route.

Travelers Rest, South Carolina

Travelers Rest is becoming a go-to place for cycling enthusiasts to visit (and to live). The Blue Ridge Mountains offer the perfect challenge for advanced bike lovers, but there are also some short and relatively flat trails that are simple enough for even the novice rider to enjoy. There are dozens of routes to pick from, from multi-use greenways to bike-friendly roads that will put you in the vicinity of vineyards, boutique hotels, quaint towns, and lots of cultural points of interest.

Onomichi, Japan

Starting in Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture, you can take the path of the Shimanami Kaidō (also known as the Nishiseto Expressway), which connects the city with Imabari in Ehime Prefecture. This 40-mile road in western Japan traverses ocean straits on colossal bridges that connect some of the Geiyo Islands. It was built with cyclists in mind, thanks to segregated cycling and pedestrian lanes.

Visayas Islands, The Philippines

The islands of Cebu, Bohol, Negros, Guimaras, and Panay are all easy places to use two-wheeled transportation to see some incredible sights. Bike tours along the coastlines are some of the area’s most popular excursions, especially since the roads are paved and fairly flat. For the full tour, island hop by ferry with your bike in tow.

Related Articles

• Register | Login

Cycling Holidays for Singles or Solo Adventurers

Solo travellers.

• Relaxed, hassle-free cycling on dedicated paths, from Passau to Vienna
• Visit the châteaux of Chenonceau and Chambord in the stunning Loire Valley
• Cruising through the vineyards of Germany’s most famous wine-growing regio

Sometimes the need to get out there is overwhelming, but there is nobody around to share the adventure. No problem! Below, you can find the very best cycling holidays we offer that are perfect for singles or solo cyclists.  Wake up when you want, eat where you want and stop to rest where you want - solo cycling provides the ultimate in freedom. However, it is good to know that Macs Adventure has your back wherever you go.

Featured Adventures - Solo Travellers

Classic Danube Cycle Path: Passau to Vienna

Cycle The Highlights of Puglia

Cycle Sicily's South

Cycling in the Heart of the Cotswolds

Follow us on social media.

• twitter-x-logo@2x

• Email [email protected]
• Toll Free 1.888.805.0061

Destination

• N. Macedonia
• Machu Picchu
• Easter Island

Solo Adventure Travel With BikeHike

Why wait for someone to travel with you when you can solo travel with a like-minded group? 

Solo travel does not mean you have to travel all alone. If you would like to experience a trip with a group of like-minded people but are a single traveler, joining a pre-scheduled group departure may be a great option for you.

BikeHike Adventures offers single travelers the opportunity to join travel groups on hiking and biking tours, meet new people, and share the vacation of a lifetime in destinations such as Central America, South America, Asia, Africa, and Europe. 

On these selected tours, BikeHike Adventures does not charge a supplement to single travelers wanting to join a group adventure. Instead, we pair you with another traveler of the same gender. If we can't find you a roommate, you get your own room at no additional charge. A single private room supplement fee is only required if you specifically request a confirmed private room for the duration of the trip. 

Joining a pre-scheduled departure as a single traveler gives you the chance to engage with the world on a level not possible when traveling alone. 

Discover our list of top singles travel tours below:

Solo Travel FAQ:

The majority of meals are included in BikeHike Adventures’ itineraries. The meals that are included in an itinerary are in a group setting. At these meals, the group will be eating together at a small restaurant or in a family home, leading to a family-like atmosphere during meals. Your BikeHike guide will also be with you during most scheduled meals. During meals that are not included in the itinerary, you are free to choose where you would like to dine. You can choose to join with others and decide to dine together somewhere or, if you desire some solo time, you are also welcome to do your own thing.

Solo travel just not have age limits. While an individual of any age can experience the thrill of international travel by joining a BikeHike Adventures tour, our single travellers typically can range in age from 30 through 65. However, the majority of singles travelling will be in their 40s and 50s. 

Typically, about 25% of a BikeHike Adventures’ participants are travelling single. BikeHike Adventures does not charge a single supplement fee, making BikeHike’s trips a popular choice for the single adventure traveller, no matter what his/her destination of interest.

As a solo traveler with us, you will meet new people, see the world, and share unforgettable memories!  

While you can join any of our adventure tours solo, we've created a curated list below of  trips popular with single travelers . 

• Central America
• Multisport Adventures
• Aug 05 - Aug 16, 2024
• Aug 31 - Sep 11, 2024
• Nov 09 - Nov 20, 2024
• Dec 19 - Dec 30, 2024

• Biking Tours
• Nov 22 - Dec 01, 2024
• Jan 31 - Feb 09, 2025

• Jun 15 - Jun 23, 2024
• Oct 26 - Nov 03, 2024
• Nov 23 - Dec 01, 2024
• Dec 21 - Dec 29, 2024
• Feb 01 - Feb 09, 2025
• Mar 08 - Mar 16, 2025
• May 17 - May 25, 2025

• South America
• Jul 12 - Jul 21, 2024
• Sep 06 - Sep 15, 2024
• Nov 08 - Nov 17, 2024
• Dec 20 - Dec 29, 2024
• Mar 28 - Apr 06, 2025
• May 16 - May 25, 2025

• Jul 09 - Jul 20, 2024
• Oct 08 - Oct 19, 2024
• Apr 15 - Apr 26, 2025

• Foodie Tourism
• Sep 14 - Sep 21, 2024
• Oct 06 - Oct 13, 2024
• May 18 - May 25, 2025
• Jun 08 - Jun 15, 2025

• Hiking Tours
• Jul 13 - Jul 20, 2024
• Aug 17 - Aug 24, 2024
• Sep 15 - Sep 22, 2024
• Oct 13 - Oct 20, 2024
• Jun 15 - Jun 22, 2025

• Jul 27 - Aug 03, 2024
• Aug 24 - Aug 31, 2024
• Sep 22 - Sep 29, 2024
• Oct 20 - Oct 27, 2024
• Apr 20 - Apr 27, 2025
• Jun 22 - Jun 29, 2025

• Sep 07 - Sep 14, 2024
• Oct 05 - Oct 12, 2024
• Apr 06 - Apr 13, 2025

• Oct 14 - Oct 20, 2024
• Oct 21 - Oct 27, 2024
• Oct 28 - Nov 03, 2024
• Nov 04 - Nov 10, 2024
• Nov 11 - Nov 17, 2024
• Nov 18 - Nov 24, 2024
• Nov 25 - Dec 01, 2024
• Dec 02 - Dec 08, 2024
• Dec 09 - Dec 15, 2024
• Dec 16 - Dec 22, 2024
• Dec 23 - Dec 29, 2024
• Dec 30 - Jan 05, 2025
• Jan 06 - Jan 12, 2025
• Jan 13 - Jan 19, 2025
• Jan 20 - Jan 26, 2025
• Jan 27 - Feb 02, 2025

Singles + Solos Bike Tours

Calling all intrepid adventurers, cycling enthusiasts, independent spirits, and lovers of luxury: if the open road calls and you don’t have a travel buddy, find your place on a DuVine cycling tour. Our bicycle vacations don’t just accommodate singles and solos—we welcome them!

We spoke with four travelers about their experience riding solo with DuVine: Lecia Barker, who joined us in  Tuscany  and  Chile  in 2017; Maria Rodriguez, who traveled to  Tuscany  in 2016; Dede Sokolski who rode  Verona + Lake Garda  in 2017; and—with four solo trips under her belt—Ann Brinkerhoff, who has visited  Tuscany , Piedmont , and  Santa Barbara with DuVine.

Intimate groups. Intuitive guides. Local connections.

Want to travel alone but don’t want to be alone? Join the DuVine family! Hands-on activities like cooking classes help break the ice, and small group sizes nurture a bond between DuVine travelers, whether they’re part of a couple or traveling by themselves. It’s common to hit it off with like-minded travelers, leading to lasting relationships that can blossom into lifelong friendships. “On both of my trips, I felt like there were interesting people. I made new friends, people I’d want to spend time with again,” says Lecia.

Our fun-loving local guides invite you into their community and introduce you to friends along the way—the fruit seller on the side of the road, the chef at their favorite neighborhood restaurant, or even their own Italian grandmother. One of our favorite elements of group travel is sharing the love and welcoming DuViners into the fold of our communities. “Traveling on my own, I would never have met all of these wonderful people,” says Ann. “The guides’ close relationships with the locals are absolutely invaluable.”

Indulge your inner explorer (without the backpack).

One of the advantages of solo travel is the freedom to follow the beat of your own drum. As a single traveler with DuVine, you get the best of both worlds: opportunity for adventure and flexibility to explore—plus the expertise and support of local guides when you want it. One of Lecia’s favorite memories from her Chile tour was an impromptu hike she took with a fellow traveler. “It was raining heavily, and Marie and I were the only two people brave enough to take a hike through the rainforest,” Lecia explains. “Our expert guide had grown up in the Araucania region with many Mapuche friends, and despite the pouring rain, he took us out and taught us all about the statues, waterfalls, and flora en route.”

Want to learn how to make fresh mozzarella? We’ll call up a local cheesemaker. Love Brunello wine? We’ll arrange a wine tasting. “The guides make it an adventure of a lifetime,” says Ann. “With DuVine it’s not just cycling,” agrees Maria. “The trips really allow you to absorb the culture, enjoy the scenery, and explore without sacrificing five-star accommodations and top-notch service.”

Take the stress out of solo travel.

Traveling alone can be intimidating and stressful, with its moment of uncertainty. By handling the nitty-gritty details for you, we allow you to focus completely on the pleasures of exploring the unknown. “My experience with DuVine was amazing. The tour guides made me feel so at ease and looked after,” said Maria, who was nervous about traveling to Europe from Australia for the first time and joined DuVine for her first-ever cycling tour.

Rather than struggle with a language barrier, your needs are understood and communicated by your guides. “For me personally, I have many serious food allergies and my guides took great care to make sure I was taken care of at every meal,” explains Dede. “I didn’t have to worry about that at all.” One of the challenging parts of solo travel for Ann is knowing how to prepare. “DuVine’s well-designed itineraries and excellent communication before the trip make packing and planning for these vacations very easy,” says Ann. Our meticulous attention to detail, carefully hand-crafted itineraries, and superior customer service help make your solo travel experience smooth.

Grow as a cyclist and as an individual.

Traveling isn’t just for exploring the world around us; it’s also for learning about ourselves. Single and solo travel provides an amazing opportunity to try new things, increase self-awareness, and strengthen self-confidence. At DuVine, we cultivate a supportive environment to grow as an individual and as a cyclist. “You meet so many interesting people on these trips, getting out of your comfort zone and opening yourself up to new and exciting adventures,” says Dede. “I’ve been on other cycling trips with different companies, but DuVine is the first one to inspire me and give me the confidence to be a better cyclist. I never felt that way before. I just upgraded my hybrid bike for a road bike and hope to train for a more difficult trip soon!” Whether you’re traveling by bike for the first time or a seasoned cyclist, traveling solo with DuVine gives you the chance to expand your horizons.

Single + Solo Travel 101

Words of wisdom for autonomous adventurers:

Ann : Traveling solo doesn’t have to be hard work. Enjoy your vacation! Put yourself in good hands and skip the hours of stressful travel planning.

Lecia : I have some trepidation about traveling alone in some parts of the world, particularly as a woman, but I have felt very safe on DuVine trips. Without a tour, I’d be unlikely to venture out alone. Know your limits and find a style of solo travel that works for you.

Dede : Traveling by yourself is not for everyone, but I have really enjoyed it.  If you’re curious about it, don’t be afraid to dive in. You’ll be amazed at how much you learn.

Maria : Travel light! I ended up buying a new suitcase and giving away things to hotel attendants and new friends so that I could go shopping. Go with the flow, keep smiling and everyone will be nice to you!

Ready to travel?

• Classic Tuscany Bike Tour
• Chile Lakes + Volcanoes Bike Tour
• Verona + Lake Garda Bike Tour
• Santa Barbara 4-Day Bike Tour
• Piedmont Bike Tour

Up Next: Big in Japan: Andy Bikes Asia

Recommended articles.

Our Newsletter:

• Search Search

Destinations

• Czech Republic
• Switzerland
• View all of Europe
• Ecuador + Galápagos
• View all of Latin America
• Hudson Valley, NY
• San Juan Islands, WA
• Shenandoah Valley, VA
• View all of United States
• South Africa
• View all of Africa

Tour Collections

• Cycle + Sail
• Private + Custom
• Private Tours
• Villa Bike Tours
• Travel Services
• Travel Protection
• Packing Lists
• Cycling Apparel
• Terms + Conditions
• DuVine Difference
• Tour Guides
• What’s Included
• Bikes + Gear
• Sustainability
• Peloton Loyalty Club
• Brochure Request

Want some DuVine inspiration?

Sign up for our newsletter:.

• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Solo cycling holidays

Small group cycling holidays for solo travellers.

Singles cycling trips

Have you ever thought about pedalling around Poland, cycling around Cyprus or seeing Burma by bicycle? Our highly popular  Cycling trips  offer small group cycling holidays to some of the world's most wonderful locations which are ideal for seeing on two wheels, and make great singles cycling holidays as you can enjoy all the thrill of solo travel but without travelling alone.

Led by our knowledgeable and expert cycle trip leaders, Explore group cycling holidays offer trip options for every level of cyclist. No matter whether you're a keen cyclist who'd like to take a solo cycling holiday to an exciting new destination, or you enjoy the occasional bike ride, but would like to discover a new part of the world in one of the most exhilarating ways, we're sure you'll find a cycling trip to suit you.  

Group cycling holidays at your ideal pace

It's your adventure - so choose the pace of your cycling holiday that's just right for you. Our group cycling tours take a variety of paces, in cycling grades from Easy to Moderate to Challenging, so there's a cycling holiday for solo travellers of any level of experience or fitness.

You'll find detailed information about each of our cycling trips on the individual trip page, including the duration, itinerary and cycling grade, so you can find your perfect cycling adventure. Whichever one you choose, you can look forward to being guided by our expert cycling trip group leaders, and sharing your experience with like-minded and friendly people who may be couples, families, or fellow solo travellers.

Oh, and don't worry about having to bring your own bike - we'll provide one for you. Along with your daily activities, travel and some or all of your meals, it's already included in the cost of your trip!  

Tour a new destination on two wheels

Europe is especially bicycle-friendly, and we offer a wide choice of European group cycling holidays so you can discover a new destination, or see one of your favourite countries in a new way. Take a leisurely paced  cycling trip in France  down the  Canal Du Midi , seeing ancient Roman cities and the stunning Corbières region along the way or feel the sun on your face as you cycle the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia.

Or, if you'd like to take a solo cycling holiday in Europe that's close to home, our best-selling  Cycling Coast to Coast  offers you the opportunity to see some of the UK's most stunning scenery - and maybe even complete a lifelong challenge.

Should you wish to venture even further afield on your singles cycling holiday, we've an exciting range of group cycling holidays to Central and South America. Vibrant and historic Cuba is one of our most popular destinations of all for solo travellers, and you can decide whether you'd like to take a relaxed trip to see  Highlights of Cuba by Bicycle  or  Cycle Cuba  at a keener pace.

Asia is a particularly fascinating continent to see by bike, and on our cycling tips such as  Cycle Saigon to Hanoi , Cycle Kerala , and Cycle Burma , we'll take you through regions typically unseen by tourists and make the most of the opportunities offered by travelling by bike. Wherever you choose to take your cycling adventure holiday with Explore, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

Our most popular solo cycling tours

Cycle southern spain - murcia.

Cycle Jordan

Cycle the Dalmatian Coast

Cycle Saigon to Hanoi

Cycle Cuba!

Cycling the Baltic States

Other solo holiday ideas

Solo holidays, solo adventure holidays, solo walking holidays, solo holidays for over 30s, solo holidays for over 40s, solo holidays for over 50s, solo holidays for over 60s.

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Top 10 trips for solo travellers

7 questions answered for your first cycling holiday

Solo travel guide for women

5 ways to prepare for your first cycling trip

10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

Cycling tours

No big bus windows. No phone screen. No maps, walls or guidebooks. Just your wheels, the wind and the open road. That’s how we roll.

From pedalling through peaceful villages in  Vietnam  and  Japan  to cruising down epic, ever-changing landscapes in  Jordan  and  Tanzania , our cycling tours allow you to really immerse yourself in a place and not just travel through it. Powered by nothing but your legs (and maybe a slice of biscotti and a couple of extra-strong cafés au lait), there’s a nice simplicity to cycling as well as plenty of adventures waiting for you off the saddle. Intrepid style cycling isn’t the Tour de France – you don’t get prizes for coming first and the lycra bodysuits are definitely optional – but we promise it’s a totally unique way to experience the world.

On most of our trips we use hardtail mountain bikes armed with front suspension. Depending on the country, we’ll use a mix of makes and models like Giant Talon and Trek X Caliber 5, but they’re pretty similar when it comes to form and function. Our bikes are serviced regularly by local experts who know their stuff, and any pesky broken chains or flat tyres can be fixed in a jiffy. You can usually bring your own bike, too (check our FAQs for the logistical info).

Riding a bike is good for you (even factoring in the odd gelato or Tuscan cellar door pitstop). But it’s also good for the environment. Like all our trips, our cycling tours are 100% carbon offset. Most of the transport is powered by the greenest energy of all: yours. We’ve been certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid, you’re traveling to improve the planet.

There’s something special about Intrepid travelers. You travel differently; you travel with purpose; you seek to leave a positive impact and give back to the people and places you visit. By traveling on an Intrepid cycling trip, you’ll directly support our  Intrepid Foundation cycling partner, World Bicycle Relief . Donations provide school children, health workers and farmers in rural low-income communities with durable bicycles, research and mechanics training.

We run risk assessments on all our cycling trips and our leaders are specially trained to run cycling adventures, so you can rest assured you’re well taken care of. Our leaders are also trained in basic first aid, and we’ve got a support vehicle that follows the group in case of injury, inclement weather, unexpected and hazardous road conditions, or if you’d like to give your legs a rest.

The beauty of small group travel means our groups are small enough to allow you to ride at your own pace, but big enough to connect with others and create a good social vibe. Our maximum group size is 12 people, which we’ve found is a great number to let you get to know your fellow cyclists and also benefit from your leader’s knowledge and experience.

We think the best folks to show you around the heart of a destination is someone who lives there. That's why we work exclusively with local cycling leaders, which means you’ll really get to know the places you’ll be visiting. Our leaders are not just cycling enthusiasts, they’re also your travel guru, teacher and enthusiastic purveyor of local experiences.

Our local leaders are all cycling junkies, but they go through some pretty rigorous training before being allowed behind the handlebars of an Intrepid cycling tour. Each leader has undergone on-road supervision and knows how to do safety checks, basic repairs and emergency first-aid. But they’re still regular Intrepid leaders, which means they know the best local bars, cafes and hidden spots (not to mention handling all the logistical stuff). You just focus on the ride.  

One of my favorite trips is  Cycle Tuscany . We ride from the Apuan Alps down to the coast, followed by a dip in the Mediterranean and a picnic of fresh focaccia and tomatoes. We continue through rural villages, protected wildlife parks and sandy beaches all the way to the medieval jewel of the walled city of Lucca – and that's just in one day. Top tip for an Intrepid cycling trip: bring patience, an open heart and an open mind. Oh, and trust your legs!

Filter by rating

Cycle Croatia

Cycle the Danube

Cycle Morocco

Cycle Japan

What’s the range of cycling tours available?

Our cycling tours span the gamut of two-wheeled challenges: from a leisurely ride through Vietnam to cycling across landscapes of Cuba. Some of these trips include cycling as just one of a number of active adventures, others are more cycling focussed (ie. You’ll be riding almost every day).

Should I bring my own bike on a cycling trip?

To take the hassle out of preparing for your trip, we've included bike hire on all our dedicated cycling tours. Alternatively, you can bring your trusty bike from home. If you're bringing your own bike, make sure you let us know when booking so we can make sure your bike is appropriate for that particular tour. As always, check your Essential Trip Information. 

Bringing your own bike  – If you are a dedicated cyclist or just want to take your bike on a holiday, you can usually bring it along for the ride. You’ll need to box it up for transport on the plane.

The easiest way to do this is to go to your local bike shop and ask if they will do it for you (a fee may apply). They often have boxes on hand from old stock and have the tools to remove the pedals and secure your handlebars.

Airline fees will also apply, so check with your airline about costs. It's worth remembering not all trips will be able to accommodate your own bike, so let us know what you're planning at the time of booking. 

Hiring a bike  – The bikes we use are from proven brands, very well maintained, typically less than 3 years old (most are newer) and specifically chosen to suit the terrain you'll be cycling on the trip. They come in a full range of sizes from extra small to extra large and usually have front suspension, flat bars, and 27 gears.

The only thing you need to do is advise us of your height at the time of booking. We’ll handle the rest. If you'd like, you can always bring your own saddle (seat) or gel over-cover for comfort. If you want to use cleats, bring your pedals and shoes, too. 

How do I fly with my bike?

All airlines will have their own rules and fees when transporting bikes. Make sure you contact the airline (preferably) before you pay for your flights to see what charges and requirements they have.

Before you depart, you must box your bike for transport. See our section ‘taking your own bike vs. hiring one’ for more information.

What do I have to carry while I ride?

On all of our cycling tours your accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage is transferred from one point to the next. All you have to carry is water, any snacks or gadgets you may want and a few layers to keep you dry and warm. A small, lightweight backpack may come in handy.

Do I need to pack anything special?

Helmets are compulsory on our cycling tours, so you can either bring your own or (to save on luggage space) buy one at a local bike shop once you arrive in-country. We also recommend you bring your own water bottle/hydration pack and closed shoes. You may also wish to bring Cycling shorts and (if you ride regularly at home) your own saddle and pedals. Many of our clients who do not ride regularly find a gel seat cover helpful in making the ride more comfortable. For more info on packing, check out the What to Pack section of your Essential Trip Information.

How fit do I need to be to do a cycling tour?

All you need to enjoy our cycling trips is the ability to ride a bicycle and a passion for seeing a destination on two wheels. That’s about it.

While there are occasionally longer days on some itineraries, the vast majority of our cycling days are between 19-37 miles and are done at a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery or just take a break. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness will get by with no trouble. Be sure to check the physical rating and description in the Essential Trip Information to make sure the trip suits your fitness level and skills.

Our cycling trips are done predominantly on sealed roads (with the odd unsealed section), but none of the trips require any specialist cycling skills. We’ve also researched extra riding routes in each of the destinations we visit, so if you want to stretch your legs a bit more, you can.

My partner is fitter than me, should I still book this trip?

To make our trips more accessible for cyclists of varying fitness levels and skills, most of our trips will have a support vehicle that follows the group. You can jump into the support vehicle any time you feel like taking a short (or long) break from riding. Many of our cycling trips also include the option to use an e-bike, an electric motor-assisted bike that’ll get you up any hill or allow you to zip along the flats with minimum effort.

What sort of safety precautions do you take?

We run risk assessments on each and every one of our cycling trips to make sure they’re up to scratch and your cycling leaders have personally ridden every inch of the itinerary in advance. We’ve assessed the road conditions, the level of traffic and any potential blackspots.

Our leaders are trained in cycling health and safety, as well as basic first aid, and we usually have a vehicle following us if an evacuation ever becomes necessary. We’ve also made sure our cycling tours depart during the milder months when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold, so the ride should be as pleasant (and safe) as possible. 

Do I need special insurance for a cycling trip?

Not as a rule. Any injuries you might suffer while riding should be covered by the more reputable comprehensive policies (we can recommend some good brands if you’re unsure of what to get). It’s always important to double-check the fine print before departing on your trip and be aware that, like all Intrepid trips, travel insurance is compulsory on our cycling itineraries.

Turkey’s most underrated experience: mountain biking in Cappadocia

Keep the wheels turning: How bicycles are empowering rural communities around the world

What to expect on a cycling trip in Southern Thailand

All your questions answered: 10 things to know about Intrepid’s cycling trips

5 reasons you should do a Sonoma bike tour

7 great things to do in Arizona

Breaking down the myth of ‘Wellness Travel’

5 of the best things to do in Northumberland National Park

More From Forbes

Why your best hiking or biking trip might be self-guided active travel.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

You don't always need a guide to appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors and the thrill of ... [+] active travel in top spots such as Icleand.

Sometimes when we travel, having the best guide can make all the difference. Sometimes the best guide is you.

Self-guided active travel has been booming in popularity, and not just because it’s cheaper—and it is much more affordable, even at the luxury level. There are a number of other reasons besides price why if you enjoy hiking or biking trips, you might want to consider going self-guided.

But first a definition: Self-guided is not the same as DIY (Do It Yourself) and in this case does not mean just going it alone like a backpacking or bikepacking or camping trip. These are the same kinds of supported, itinerary-based active trips with hotels and great food that have boomed in popularity in recent years through companies like Backroads, Butterfield & Robinson, Vermont Bicycle Tours (VBT), DuVine, REI Adventures, Sojourn and many others. They include detailed daily directions, hotels, meals and special attractions along the way (winery visits, museums, etc.) and perhaps most importantly, baggage transfers from one hotel to the next so you don’t have to carry more than a day pack (if the itinerary involves moving, which most do).

With well marked trails connecting charming towns in one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth, ... [+] the Dolomites are a top spot for self-guided hiking and biking.

In short, these self-guided trips are just like fully guided trips except for three things: no guide, no other guests besides the ones you choose to travel with, and no obligation to choose pre-set departure dates to join a group. They are ideal for both couples and groups of friends or families who want to spend more time together. And did I mention they cost less?

Self-guided travel has been more popular in Europe for decades, and one of the biggest and best-established companies in the space is UK-based Macs Adventure , whose motto is “Active Travel Led By You.” Unlike other companies that offer self-guided as an option, it is all they do, for the past 20 years, with a broad array of walking and biking trips all around the globe, hundreds of them. Addressing the growing U.S. market, Macs opened an office in Denver that ramped up from 11 to more than 40 employees in less than 12 months, and last year, 2023 trips by Americans jumped 70% over the previous year. Last September was their busiest month ever in terms of travelers. Walking and hiking trips have always been more popular, but cycling grew 90% last year over the previous year and is closing the gap, and Macs now also offers e-bikes which are proving popular.

Samsung Makes Surprise Free Offer For Galaxy S24 Ultra Buyers

Google pixel deadline—10 days to update or stop using your phone, apple confirms iphone upgrade with 2 key new features is here in days.

Tourissimo is an active travel expert in in all things Italy, and can set up a dream self-guided ... [+] trip through their favorite spots.

“Traditionally, adventure tour travel involved integrating with a group of strangers. As Americans seek to travel for personal discovery (which include celebrating major milestones, personal and spiritual growth), it’s much more meaningful and adaptable when you’re traveling on your own, and not with a group of strangers who are unlikely to share your priorities or values,” said Campbell Levy, spokesperson for Macs, in an email. “Personalized, authentic and immersive experiences are desired today, and self-led perfectly delivers this. And yes, price. Self-guided trips are definitely less expensive, making them more accessible to a broader range of travelers.”

Price is important in travel, but it’s hardly the only appeal of self-guided. I love cycling and you might love cycling, but we probably don’t share the same passions for culture, food, museums, or history. Self-guided allows travelers to be more independent with their time off the bike or hiking trail, to do more of what they enjoy and further customize the experience. Also, some people don’t want to travel with strangers, and self-guided is great for groups of friends or families.

Sometimes a day pack and good instructions are all you need for a memorable hikng trip

It also caters to people who are like minded about fitness, like a group of people who all hike roughly the same pace and mileage. Every guided active trip I have gone on has been very clear and honest about the physical expectations, but almost every time, paying guests ignore this. When I did the Tour du Mont Blanc, an iconic but strenuous long-distance hike through three countries in the Alps, there were people signed up who simply could not manage the physical effort required, forcing the guides to split up, disadvantaging everyone on the trip. Unlike a van supported bike ride, many hiking trips don’t cross roads often and offer no way to cut the trek short once you’ve started.

“Self-guided tours are cheaper than fully-supported tours, but price is not the main motivation for all guests, especially the ones who come to us,” said Heather Dowd, co-founder of Tourissimo , an active travel company based in Turin with a U.S. office, specializing in hiking and cycling trips in Italy, a favorite destination of American travelers. “They tend to be a bit more independent and want to have that time on their own during the day for discovery and adventure while still having the harder logistics (route planning and luggage, etc.) taken care of. They also like that there is someone they can call to assist them in the event of an emergency.”

Macs Adventure is the leading self-guided active travel specialist, and offers several itineraries ... [+] for the Tour du Mont Blanc, one of the world's most iconic hikes.

Macs Adventure has several different trip categories from more budget-oriented to In Comfort and In Style, the most upscale, but as a whole, their trips are quite affordable. For instance, the 8-day Best of the Bernese Oberland in Style through the Swiss Alps has one of their highest accommodations levels and at $3,585 per person is very reasonable in this sector, but quite pricey for the company, which has weeklong trips starting at under a thousand dollars. Cycle the Loire Valley in Style is a 6-day trip with their highest level of luxury accommodations, using 4-star Châteaux hotels, and runs just $2,965. Other categories include Discovery Trips that cover more ground using trains and/or ferries and Pilgrimage Trips for more spiritual journeys.

They also have a focus on “Classic Routes” around the world which are offered in sections or as a whole, with some much longer trips than most active travel companies offer, such as the entire Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in Spain, 40-days, along with more than a dozen different sections or variations of the Camino in Spain and Portugal. One of the most popular categories is the Tour du Mont Blanc, often considered the best multi-day hike on earth—I’ve done it and it is absolutely fantastic, a Bucket List for avid hikers. The 12-day Complete Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort, the highest level of accommodations they offer on this route (some sections have no luxury hotels no matter who you go with) is $3,960, while the Complete Tour du Mont Blanc in mountain huts is $3,145 for almost two weeks of travel.

Self-guided can still be luxurious: Butterfield & Robinson uses luxury hotels like the legendary ... [+] Palazzo Avino in Ravello on Italy's Amalfi Coast

Campbell mentioned celebrating major milestones, and that’s exactly what my wife and I did when we booked a self-guided cycling trip in Burgundy with Butterfield & Robinson for our 20 th wedding anniversary. B&R is known as the inventor of luxury guided active travel way back in 1966 and is atop the category in terms of white glove service, posh hotels, VIP experiences and amazing food. They are a fantastic company with a very high repeat rate and loyal customers, but all of that comes at a price, and in my case, the affordability of self-guided was important. B&R is the only company in the top luxury tier of active travel offering a self-guided option , and besides price it appealed to us for several reasons. Burgundy is a classic cycling dream destination, but our anniversary did not coincide well with the scheduled group dates. Also, while it is enjoyable to meet new people and I’ve had a lot of fun on active group trips, for this we wanted a more romantic experience. But we got the same great luxury lodging, food and special experiences along the way.

As an example, the B&R Self-Guided Burgundy trip includes an expert-led wine tasting at the luxury hotel the first night, a meet up with a local guide for a guided tour of medieval Beaune the second day, another private expert-led tasting in a wine cellar the third day, and a farewell dinner at a fancy hotel restaurant off the regular a la carte menu, all included. The only thing missing was someone actually riding with us, and other guests. The first day we were met at our hotel by a local B&R guide who delivered the bikes, did the fitting and gave us an orientation. Today, with GPS loaded routes in bike computers doing self-guided is easier than ever. They pick up and move your luggage every time you change hotels and have 24/7 emergency support available.

Many self-guided active trips are in wine regions like my anniversary ride in Burgundy, and there's ... [+] no skimping on wine tasting

Butterfield focuses their offerings on the places best suited to self-guided travel, with two dozen hiking and cycling trips in Slovenia, Switzerland, Tuscany, Vietnam, Provence, Spain, Croatia, the Dolomites and several others regions of Italy. Perhaps the most iconic trip in cycling is a week in Tuscany, and in this case, B&R’s self-guided version is a thousand dollars per person less ($5,695 vs. $6,695). It’s still pricy, it’s still luxury, but that’s two grand a couple you can use to splurge on anything from daily massages to jewelry while having the same quality active experience.

Among U.S. companies self-guided is still a bit of an obscure niche with some smaller players in it, mainly at the budget end. One exception is Vermont-based Country Walkers , another large well-known active travel company that offers a self-guided option to its “regular” guided trips. It’s all walking and generally a little less physically challenging, and as their website explains, “When you hit the trail on a Self-Guided adventure, you’re armed with route notes written by insiders who know the area. Without a large group of traveling companions, you’ll be able to blend in with locals, make new friends, and discover the highlights that guidebooks miss. Want to know the best local spot for dinner? Check your route notes…” They offer 10 self-guided trips in Scotland, Portugal, Maine, Switzerland, Canada, Ireland, Italy, France and England, with 6-7 day itineraries from $2,345 to $5,195 with most in the $3-4,000 range, and in general these are about $1,000 less than their similar guided trips.

A couple on their own trip with Macs Adventure, riding E-bikes through the olive groves of Tuscany.

Country Walkers’ sister company, Vermont-based VBT Biking Vacations , also offers elf-guided trips across Europe and the U.S., with E-bikes available. A 6-day Italy trip in the Dolomites is $3,795 while the guided option is $4,695.

“We've been getting more and more requests for self-guided tours. It’s not our main product, and a typical self-guided tour isn't really our style. So, what we offer is what we called “Co-pilot Tours,” said Tourissimo’s Dowd. “These are private, unsupported tours, but you're not completely on your own. You get the same attentive customer service before the trip, and at the start you are met by a Tourissimo guide who introduces you to the program and assists with bike fitting. You’re on your own for the rides, but we can arrange meals and activities. Some people have taken one of our fully-supported itineraries and asked for it to be run as self-guided. So, they get all of the services of the fully-supported tour, but without a 24/7 guide and support van. Our Co-pilot tours are cheaper than fully supported tours, but they are not as cheap as other self-guided programs.”

I’ve done both hiking and biking trips with Tourissimo , and highly recommend the company, whose focus is on showing their Italy to visitors, with a deep dive into local food wine, usually including cooking class, and curated family-owned small hotels (in castles and wineries and such) that would be very hard to find on your own.

“Why go self-guided on a Co-Pilot tour?” asked Dowd. “For the independence and adventure, with the harder details taken care of so you can focus on the riding and the fun.”

“Why not go self-guided? Many of our guests choose our full-service tours to enjoy being fully letting go while on vacation. They know the guides are looking out for them and they don't have to make any decisions. Several of the people on our last hiking tour mentioned that they loved the fact that for the week they didn't have to make any decisions. It's freeing and relaxing.”

Either way, active travel makes for a fantastic vacation.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

Holidays for the Mature Solo Traveller

Best Small Singles Holiday Company - winners since 2014!

First Booking?

We know that making the decision to travel by yourself for the first time can be a hard one for many people but when you take the plunge and book a holiday with One Traveller, everything else just falls in to place.

Our Holidays

Our holidays are social occasions, giving you the chance to make new friends and explore the world with like-minded solo travellers. Our dedicated Tour Managers are always on hand, and will help bring your holiday to life.

View Our Holidays

Request a Brochure

Request one of our latest brochures, to have a better look at our range of solo holidays or read the One Traveller Newspaper to keep up to date with the latest news and holidays.  You can also view them online.

Request A Brochure

Welcome from One Traveller to all solo travellers!

One Traveller solo holidays are about like-minded, mature individuals who, by choice or by circumstance, want to enjoy unique holidays throughout the UK , Europe and Worldwide.

One Traveller is a family run company and was started in 2007 by a highly experienced Tour Manager , who specialised in escorting solo travel holidays. One Traveller has since gained the reputation as the UK’s number one solo holiday specialist for the over 50s .

All One Traveller holidays have many meals, excursions and extra touches included in the headline price. Every guest gets their own room in our hand-picked hotels, with no single supplement to pay.

Whether you are a mature single or just want some time to yourself, we understand that the first step towards taking a solo holiday may feel like a giant leap, so we're here to ensure you have the perfect journey from start to finish. We’ll look after all those small details that really matter, making the perfect holiday for the solo traveller.

Watch our video and find out more about booking a One Traveller holiday from our guests

View our news section where we keep you updated on the latest travel trends, destination spotlights, and insider tips to make your holiday unforgettable.

Join us for curated content, engaging stories, and personalised recommendations, elevating your travel experiences with unmatched authenticity.

Our guest portal, exclusive to One Traveller guests, offers secure access to all holiday documents and convenient booking management.

JavaScript Disabled: You must have JavaScript enabled to utilize the functionality of this website.

Legacy Browser Detected: Please update to a new browser

• Regions  
• Russia  
• Moscow  

Cycling routes in

Find the right bike route for you through Moscow, where we've got 1,235 cycle routes to explore. The routes you most commonly find here are of the hilly or uphill type. Most people get on their bikes to ride here in the months of May and June.

Find cycle routes in Moscow:

Flat routes | Hilly routes | Uphill routes | Downhill routes | Quick rides | Long tours | Top rated routes

Join the fast growing global cycling community

Are you ready for the full cycling experience.