Highlights: 

• Cycle from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc and soak up one of Vietnam’s most spectacular views – the towering limestone karsts that rise over the rice paddies.
• Ride one of Vietnam’ most spectacular highways to Nha Trang, hugging the granite cliffs and looking out across the sea to the many islands and lagoons. Then, chill out in the coastal town once referred to as the 'Cannes of the Orient'.
• Discover Mai Chau – a town in a beautiful valley surrounded by green mountains – and enjoy the local hospitality and homecooked meals in your stilt-house homestay in the village of Poom Coong.
• Make the most of your time in Hue, Hanoi, Hoi An and Ninh Binh with your expert local leader, their unmatched guidance and the super friendly locals!
• Swap your bike for a boat and explore the nearby islands from Nah Trang. Starting on the main boat, you’ll then take a small basket boat to shore and visit a fishing village, go snorkeling in the turquoise waters and feast on a fresh seafood buffet.
• Cycle from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc and soak up one of Vietnam’s most spectacular views – the towering limestone karsts that rise over the rice paddies.
• Ride one of Vietnam’ most spectacular highways to Nha Trang, hugging the granite cliffs and looking out across the sea to the many islands and lagoons. Then, chill out in the coastal town once referred to as the 'Cannes of the Orient'.
• Discover Mai Chau – a town in a beautiful valley surrounded by green mountains – and enjoy the local hospitality and homecooked meals in your stilt-house homestay in the village of Poom Coong.
• Make the most of your time in Hue, Hanoi, Hoi An and Ninh Binh with your expert local leader, their unmatched guidance and the super friendly locals!
• Swap your bike for a boat and explore the nearby islands from Nah Trang. Starting on the main boat, you’ll then take a small basket boat to shore and visit a fishing village, go snorkeling in the turquoise waters and feast on a fresh seafood buffet.

Is this trip right for you?:

• To complete this trip, it’s important that you’re both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
• This trip covers quite a distance – you’ll be cycling for up to 85 km a day on varied terrain, so you’ll need an adequate level of fitness.
• You'll be spending one night in a homestay and another on an overnight sleeper train. While the accommodation is shared and basic, this is a great opportunity to interact with the locals and get a real sense of Vietnamese daily life.
• If you feel like doing all the riding but with less effort, you'll have the option of hiring an electric bike.

Important notes:

• Please provide your height at booking to ensure the right-sized bike. Without it, we can't guarantee a suitable bike. 

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.

• Provide your full name exactly as on your passport for train tickets. Amendments within 50 days may incur fees.
• Available on request, excluding Day 3 (Homestay) and Day 5 (Overnight Train). Subject to availability. Helmets and closed-toed shoes are required. Bring your own helmet as we cannot hire them locally.
•  Available at extra cost and on request, subject to availability. Confirm at booking.
•  If traveling during Tet (late January/early February), your itinerary may change. Details will be provided by your travel agent at the time of booking. 

Highlights:

• Led by an experienced cycling leader whose role is to ensure a smooth, enjoyable journey.
• Walk and cycle through the ancient Angkor Wat complex – a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in South East Asia. Covered in lush greenery, you’ll explore various temples on two legs and two feet!
• Cycle through ever changing landscapes, rice paddies and small villages through Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand – the best way to explore local life is on the back of a bicycle, after all!
• Indulge in all your Southeast Asian favorites – this region is famous for its delicious cuisine for a reason! After days of cycling, you’ll work up an appetite for countless dishes of Bahn mi, pho, fish amok and pad Thai and your leader will know all the best spots.
• Explore the Mekong Delta with a full day of riding and then be treated to a homecooked meal by your homestay hosts – the best way to get to know the locals!
• Wake up at sunrise to see the local Buddhist monks from nearby temples who come to receive food from the villagers in exchange for blessings. Then, spend the rest of the day cycling through the small district of Kabinburi.

This trip is perfect for you IF:

• IF you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
• You’ll be cycling for up to 70 km per day on varied terrain, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit to enjoy and complete all activities. There will be a support vehicle on this trip if you need a break.
• The weather in South East Asia can be varied. Be prepared to get sweaty and for the occasional rain storm, which may require a change of plans.
• This trip is part of a longer itinerary. You might be joining travelers who have already spent some time together. If you have more time to explore, you might like to check out Cycle South East Asia trip

Important notes:

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.
• It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
•  A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. Please note that some room configurations have two single beds, although a double bed will always be requested.
•  If you plan to bring your own bike please advise us at time of booking as additional transport is required.
•  Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
• Cambodia Visa - The standard e-visa for Cambodia is not valid at Phnom Den border (on entry to Cambodia on Day 4 of this trip). Travelers of all nationalities must apply for visa on arrival, which usually takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes at Tinh Bien/Phnom Den border.
• Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for train and flight tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.

Highlights:

• Led by an experienced cycling leader whose role is to ensure a smooth, enjoyable journey.
• Explore three fascinating countries by bike
• Cycle through whitewashed villages and marvel at the sublime sapphire waters of the Adriatic Sea
• Visit the largest island of Dalmatia, with its cypress forests, orange and olive trees, and glowing white pebble beaches
• Filled with fragrant lavender, pines, fruit orchards and a towering limestone ridge, Hvar is truly stunning
• Enjoy a gelato or take a refreshing dip in the sea in sunny Korcula
• Traverse to the top of Srd Hil and appreciate the view of Old Dubrovnik, its harbor and the Adriatic Sea
• Witness Mostar's famous bridge divers hurl themselves from the stones of a bridge that has spanned the river here for centuries

This trip is perfect for you IF:

• While the cycling distances on this trip are relatively short (the longest ride is only 50 kilometres) the terrain of the Dalmatian Coast is naturally hilly and the climate often warm. You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the trip, but remember we will always have the support vehicle on hand if you need to take a break for an hour or a day.
• As our riding is done mostly on sealed roads with the occasional gravel cycle path.
• As there are cobblestones and many stairs in most European towns, and space in our support van is limited, it's strongly recommended that you leave any wheelie bags/cases at home and bring a backpack instead.
• You'll be spending your nights in hotels at each step on this tour, ranging from comfortable to basic levels. Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.

Important notes:

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.
• It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
•  A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 1 (Split) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
• Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking so that we can ensure a suitable sized bike is arranged.
• Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
• An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
• This trip is a combination of 2 trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travelers and leader will change.

Highlights:

• Take an active adventure through Central Europe, cycling leafy paths from the bohemian centre of Prague to the classical vibe of Vienna.
• Ride alongside the mighty Danube River downstream, passing by romantic riverside castles, picturesque villages and lowland forests surrounding the banks.
• Marvel at the spires and dome of Melk Abbey, perched on a rocky outcrop high above the waters of the Danube.
• The perfect mix of cosmopolitan cities, picture postcard towns and traffic-free cycling paths await, with local knowledge to get the best out of each European destination.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

This is the right challenge for you IF:

•  You are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
• As our riding is done mostly on sealed roads and – along the Danube River – dedicated bike paths with the occasional gravel section, there are no technical cycling skills required.
• As there are potholes and cobblestones in many European cities, it's recommended that you leave any wheelie bags/cases at home and bring a backpack instead. As this is an eight-day trip, a large backpack should be enough to carry all of your belongings.
• As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, solo travellers will share a room with other travellers of the same gender. Please note that a single supplement is available on this trip. Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. In some cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.
• This trip is a great way to see a lot in a short period of time and it can be part of a longer itinerary if you have more time to explore. You might like to check out Cycle Central Europe & the Danube trip.

Important notes:

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.
• It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
• A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
•  Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please either bring your own bike helmet from home (recommended) or purchase an approved and well-fitted one at the start of the trip (our leaders can usually assist you with this).
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
• An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.

Highlights: 

Cycling allows you to get closer to authentic Morocco, whether you're riding around the backstreets of Marrakech or stopping for tea with nomads in the Mgoun Valley.

Ride a camel through the dramatic red dunes of the Sahara Desert at sunset, then settle into your camp and enjoy a Moroccan feast under the stars.

Pedal through Morocco’s diverse terrain, from the lively medinas and the Mediterranean Coast to the iconic hairpins of the Dades Gorge.

• Step back in time to the Middle Ages on a guided walk through the secret shortcuts and twisting alleyways of Fes’ Medina with a local leader who knows all the best spots.
• End rewarding days in the saddle with hearty local meals, like the traditional goat dinner in Mgoun Valley and street food delicacies in Djemaa el-Fna.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Education for All. Donations help them support girls in the High Atlas Mountains through secondary school, bringing a generation of women out of the cycle of illiteracy, poverty and early marriage. 

This trip is right for you IF:

• To enjoy this trip, it’s important that you’re both confident and competent in riding a bicycle. An e-bike option is available. There are some long inclines, so a good level of cycling fitness is required. You always have the option to use the included support vehicle at any time for your comfort.
• Accommodation on this trip includes a mountain gite (a desert camp) and basic hotels.
• Transport on this trip includes an overnight train journey. Details on this mode of transport can be found in the Important Notes section.
• When travelling in Morocco, temperatures can get incredibly hot in summer and surprisingly cool in winter. Have a think about what time of year suits you best to travel.

Important notes:

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.
• It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
•  A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip apart from overnight train (1 night), desert camp (1 night), and gite (1 night), and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
•  Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking that we can ensure a suitable sized bike is arranged.
• An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
• Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
• Morocco gets very warm in summer (June, July, August) so our leader may opt to shorten or reroute rides to ensure travelers' health and safety is not compromised.
• There's an overnight train on Day 2 of the trip. The train has four-berth couchette compartments with upper and lower bunks on each side, so you may be sharing a confined space with people outside of your travel group. this train is occasionally cancelled at very late notice, meaning we take a minivan instead.

Highlights: 

• Cycle along the Loire River, passing by classic quaint villages and the verdant countryside in the north west of France.
• You haven’t seen chateaux until you’ve seen the ones in France. Marvel at the Chateau de Chenonceau, which spans the banks of the Cher River, and the acclaimed Chateau de Villandry, among others.
• Discover the Loire's charm on a river cruise and toast the moment with a glass of exquisite local wine.
• Consider the option of visiting a chateau turned museum, showcasing Leonardo da Vinci’s designs and how he spent his final years of life in the nearby town of Amboise.
• Explore the vineyards of Vouvray, near Villandry, for an optional tasting, and discover why this region is known for its aged chenin blanc wines.
• Complete your cycling journey in the township of Angers, with its history dating back centuries, and buildings to suit.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income

This trip is right for you IF:

• This trip covers quite some distance, with cycling for up to a maximum of 60 kilometres a day on varied terrain with a few hills. As well as obviously the ability to confidently ride a bike, in reality you only require a reasonable level of fitness to participate.
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
• There’s the possibility of a few hiccups along the way – a puncture here and there – but there’s no doubt this is an incredibly rewarding adventure.
• You'll be spending your nights in hotels all the way, ranging from comfortable to basic level, but they'll always be authentic and a great opportunity to interact with the locals and fellow travellers.
• The weather in this region can be varied depending on the season. Be prepared to get sweaty and for the occasional rainstorm, which may require a change of plans.

Important notes:

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.
•  It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
•  A Single Supplement is available on this trip, please ask your booking agent for more information.
•  An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
•  Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We cannot rent bike helmets so please bring your own bike helmet from home, or purchase one at one of local bike shops in Blois (which are open both Saturday and Sunday)."
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
• Due to frequent negative client feedback the start city of has changed from Tours to Bloise in 2023.

Highlights:

• Cycle through the same landscapes that inspired some of Vincent van Gogh's greatest masterpieces, like ‘Irises’ and the iconic ‘Starry Night’.
• Pass by fragrant fields on the way to the spectacular three-tiered city of Pont du Gard – this Roman aqueduct is a UNESCO World Heritage site and if it’s quiet, you’ll even get to ride the bridge!
• Search for wild white horses outside Camargue as you cycle to the Mediterranean Sea. The lakes of Camargue are also a bird spotters paradise, home to more than 400 species of birds.
• Encounter rich Roman history and architecture in the historic towns of Arles and Orange. You’ll see Van Gogh’s Cafe Terrace, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Roman Amphitheatre and one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in Europe.
• Stop in at famous vineyards outside Avignon and savor the delicious, regional French wines of the area. You deserve a reward after days of riding, don’t you?

This trip is perfect for your IF:

• This trip covers quite some distance and you’ll be cycling up to 60 km a day on varied terrain with a few hills. As well as the ability to confidently ride a bike, you'll need a moderate level of fitness to enjoy all activities.
• On this trip, you have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
• There’s the possibility of a few hiccups along the way – a puncture here and there – but there’s no doubt this is an incredibly rewarding adventure.
• If you feel like doing all the riding but with less effort, we have the option of hiring an electric bike (e-bike) on this trip.

Important notes:

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.1. It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
•  A Single Supplement is available on this trip, please ask your booking agent for more information.
•  An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
• Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
• We are unable to offer private transfers from/to Nice Airport. Please refer to the Joining/Finishing Point Instructions for further information about arriving/departing for this tour.

Highlights: 

• Pedal through the rolling green hills and vineyards of Tuscany, stopping to sample the local cuisine and indulging in a glass (or two) of vino along the way.
• From Lucca's tree-lined city walls, you’ll follow the gentle Serchio River on your bike to the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa – take the classic shot in front of the tower or hunt down the best local cafe and people-watch.
• Retrace the steps of Leonardo da Vinci around his home city, Vinci. Surrounded by olive groves, your cycle will take you past Casa Natale di Leonardo then returns you to the village where you can explore at your own pace.
• Stay in picturesque Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, where you’ll spend your day cycling up and down the valleys, maybe stopping at the famous Fronte della Rocca for one of their cakes and coffees that have been enjoyed since 1885.
• Get away from tourist crowds and experience the authentic Italy – on two wheels and two feet, you’ll have the best chance to connect with locals, ride through rural areas you otherwise wouldn’t visit and have the insights from a local leader who knows all the best spots.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

This trip is perfect for you IF: 

• To complete this trip, it’s important that you’re both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
• While the cycling distances on this trip are relatively short, the stunning terrain of northern Tuscany is naturally hilly so you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the trip – but remember, we will always have the support vehicle on hand if you need to take a break for an hour or a day.
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed).
• As our riding is done mostly on sealed roads with the occasional gravel cycle path there are no technical cycling skills required – but given the hills involved we do suggest practicing riding downhill so you’re comfortable with this once the trips begins.
• If you feel like doing all the riding but with less effort, we have the option of hiring an electric bike (e-bike) on this trip.

Important notes:

• International flights are not included, but we can provide a quote on request. The final itinerary will outline what's included, such as local transportation, meals (e.g., 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), and specific hotel details. For more information, feel free to reach out.
•  It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
• A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. The Single Supplement does not include night 7 in Pisa, which will be twin share.
• An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking.
• Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back marker.
•  As space in the support vehicle is very limited we request that travelers bring only a small bag, no more than 20kgs with them.
•  Due to frequent unscheduled closures we have removed the Verrucole Fortress visit.

Highlights:

• Cycling allows you to get closer to the real Japan – from bicycles to Pokemon, serene temples to the organised chaos of the big cities, this classic adventure has it all.
• Choose to end rewarding days in the saddle with amazing Japanese feasts of sushi, unagi, tempura or even fugu, all washed down with a traditional sake or Sapporo beer.
• Ride both bikes and trains for the ultimate change of pace.
• Cycle through peaceful landscapes that show a land far from the big city lights of Tokyo.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

This trip is right for you if:

• While the cycling distances on this trip are relatively short (anywhere from 10 to 80 km / 6 to 50 miles of cycling each day) the terrain of the Gifu Prefecture is naturally hilly and the climate can vary dramatically. Most people with a reasonable level of fitness will enjoy the trip, but you will always have the support vehicle on hand if you need to take a break for an hour or a day.
• To complete this trip it is important that you are confident and competent in riding a bicycle, both solo and in a group environment.
• While we always aim to ride to our next accommodation, outside of the main cities a support vehicle will also be with you at all times. In Japan, we can fit a maximum of four cyclists in the support vehicle.
• On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back-marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back-marker.
• If you feel like doing all the riding but with less effort we have the option of hiring an electric bike (e-bike) on this trip. Limited sizes are available so book quickly!
• When we aren't cycling on this trip, we primarily use public transport, which is efficient and convenient in Japan. Please pack light and compact as you will be expected to transport your luggage between train stations and to hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs in crowded areas.
• Double rooms in Japanese hotels can be smaller than you may be used to (e.g. 20 sqm). Every effort will be made to accommodate double room requests. However, during busy periods, there may be occasions when we are unable to offer a double room, so a twin room will be provided.

Important notes:

• It is very important that you provide your height at time of booking so we can ensure that you have the appropriate sized bicycle when your trip starts. If you do not provide your height ahead of arrival we cannot guarantee a suitably sized bike for you.
• A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 5 and Day 7 where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. 
• It is essential that you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. Luggage size restrictions apply.
• Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. Please bring your own bike helmet from home. Helmets can be purchased in Kyoto if needed.
• An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available, and they are an 'on request' basis only.

Cycle the NSW South Coast from cosmopolitan Wollongong to charming Kiama, enjoying spectacular views, ancient rock formations, pristine beaches and fascinating heritage along the way. Just a stone’s throw from busy Sydney, the South Coast is an ideal place to ride. From the protected coastal bike path to laidback Thirroul, to the inspiring views atop the Illawarra Escarpment and the largest Buddhist monastery in the Southern Hemisphere, this trip has something for everyone at a pace everyone can enjoy. And there’s plenty to do off the bike as well!

Itinerary:

Day 1: Wollongong
Welcome to Wollongong, the coastal heart of the Illawarra region. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. You can arrive at any time before this as there are no daytime activities planned. Just an hour south of Sydney, Wollongong – or “The Gong” as it is known locally – has become one of the premier destinations on the South Coast. If you arrive early, you may want to meander through the Wollongong Botanic Garden or get close to Australian and exotic fauna at Symbio Wildlife Park. Or simply relax in one of the many outdoor saltwater pools. After our meeting, you may choose to go out for an evening meal with the group. If you are driving, take the Grand Pacific Drive through the Royal National Park. You’ll get a true highlight travelling across the breathtaking Sea Cliff Bridge that juts out into the Pacific Ocean as it follows the contours of the sandstone cliff face. It’s a small detour but well worth the effort.

Accommodation

• Hotel (1 Night)

Included Activities

Optional Activities

• Wollongong - Wollongong Botanic Garden - Free
• Wollongong - Symbio Wildlife Park - AUD39
• Wollongong - Illawarra Museum - Free

Day 2: Thirroul & Wollongong
Your first morning is a relaxed one. After breakfast and getting acquainted with your bike you’ll have the chance to further explore this beautiful area on a guided ride from Wollongong Harbour to the laidback coastal town of Thirroul. This route follows a dedicated bike path, hugging the coastline past a chain of sandy bays, including Wollongong North Beach (the city’s favourite place to swim or surf), as well as Brighton, Bulli and Sandon Point beaches. The trail is paved the whole way and with almost no roads to deal with, making it the perfect introduction to riding. We’ll take our time enjoying the coast and views of the towering Illawarra Escarpment. In Thirroul there is ample time to explore, feel the sand between your toes on the pristine beach, swim in a saltwater pool or grab a bite to eat at a local café. After lunch cycle your way back to Wollongong, then perhaps enjoy dinner as the sun goes down over the South Pacific Ocean.

Accommodation

• Hotel (1 Night)

Included Activities

• Wollongong - Wollongong to Thirroul bike path

Optional Activities

Meals

• Breakfast

Day 3: Lake Illawarra (Windang)
Today’s ride is a little longer and includes a lot more climbing – but is well worth it! Your first stop of the day is Wollongong Harbour and a quick visit to the Flagstaff Point Lighthouse before turning inland and engaging your easiest gears as you spin up the Illawarra Escarpment and the Kembla Heights viewpoint. Catch your breath and enjoy stunning views over Wollongong and the ocean before a well-earned freewheeling descent to visit Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Relax in the peaceful surroundings then head to the north shore of Lake Illawarra, following a flat bike path all the way to peaceful Windang. After a long but rewarding day in the saddle, put your feet up or just kick back and relax by the lake. If you are still feeling active there are plenty of short walks nearby. Wander the beach or cross the bridge and hike to Windang Island at the mouth of the lake to view the famous Windang Island Wheels that have been sitting on the beach for over 100 years.

Accommodation

• Motel (1 Night)

Included Activities

• Wollongong - Nan Tien Temple
• Wollongong - Kembla Heights viewpoint

Optional Activities

Meals

• Breakfast

Day 4: Kiama
After breakfast leave Lake Illawarra behind and head towards the coast on a winding, fascinating ride. Cruise through lovely Shellharbour, then detour down to the famed Mystics Beach (Minnamurra Beach), a local surfing haven. After pausing to enjoy the view, continue south to the small town of Bombo and the stunning Bombo Headland. Stop for a quick photo op at the impressive Cathedral Rocks, then park your bike and hike the circular walking trail along the headland. Admire the unique heritage-listed Bombo Headland Quarry Geological Site, where hexagonal columns of basalt jut up out of the ocean, and the sheltered Boneyard Beach. Continue to the gorgeous seaside town of Kiama. Ride past the picturesque sea baths along the harbour and the awesome Kiama Blowhole and lighthouse. The views over the ocean and back over Kiama town are truly spectacular. Tonight, perhaps visit one of the many excellent restaurants in town or enjoy the freshest of fish and chips overlooking the harbour – the choice is yours.

Accommodation

• Motel (1 Night)

Included Activities

• Kiama - Mystics Beach
• Bombo - Cathedral Rocks
• Bombo - Bombo Headland Quarry Geological Site
• Kiama - Kiama Blowhole & Lighthouse

Optional Activities

Meals

• Breakfast

Day 5: Kiama
Today is your final day in Kiama and while there is no cycling there are plenty of options to enjoy prior to checking out. Opt to hit the waves at Kiama Surf Beach or nearby Kendalls Beach, chill out in the peaceful Bonaira Native Gardens, check out the vibrant arts scene or – for a deep dive into local Indigenous culture, as well as the history of European settlement – take the Kiama Historical Walk. For those staying on, the nearby Kiama Coast Walk, considered one of the best walking trails in Australia, is well worth the effort. Between May and November, you may even be lucky enough to witness whales migrating along the coast.

Included Activities

Optional Activities

• Kiama - Kiama Historical Walk - Free
• Kiama - Kiama Coast Walk - Free
• Kiama - Bonaira Native Gardens - Free