Backroads
For more than 30 years, this California-based company has offered guided bike trips throughout the world. Their philosophy is simple. Guests enjoy the beauty and tranquility of riding while trained guides take care of all the logistics. Luxury is the name of the game and guests are spoilt with gourmet picnics, unique accommodation and custom designed activities with locals. Choose luxury trips that stay in five-star accommodation or opt for the casual trips which offer the same experience in more modest four star hotels and small inns. European destinations include Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Czech Republic, Ireland, Turkey and Germany. Unlike most companies they also offer 'single and solo' specific trips that give single travelers the chance to meet like-minded individuals in a group setting. Single travelers don't have to pay the room supplement if they are willing share their room. If no roommate is available and you sign up 60 days in advance, you will receive your own room free of charge. In 2010, single and solo trips are offered in Europe in Tuscany and Provence.
Backroads
801 Cedar St.
Berkeley CA 94710
(800) GO ACTIVE or (510) 527-1555
http://www.backroads.com
Ciclismo Classico
For all things Italian, trips with Ciclismo Classico are a must. With more than 30 trips in Italy, they offer something for every type of rider and traveler. Unique trips include an eight-day olive harvest bike tour, a one-day gelato tour by bike and an eight-day tour following in the footsteps of the Giro d'Italia. Choose from a plethora of destinations such as Piedmont, Puglia, Sardina, Tuscany or cross Italy on an eleven day ride. Trips typically stay in four- and five-star hotels, small inns or family run bed and breakfasts. Bilingual and native Italian and local guides provide van support, prepare picnics and offer informative talks. Going single is encouraged and solo travelers don't have to pay a room supplement if they are willing to share a room.
Ciclismo Classico
30 Marathon St.
Arlington MA 02474
1 (800) 866 7314
http://www.ciclismoclassico.com/
Vermont Bicycle Tours
Vermont Bicycling Tours, otherwise known as VBT, offers affordable trips in North America, Europe, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Africa, Vietnam and Thailand. European destinations include Italy, France, Holland, Croaita, Ireland, Czech Republic, Spain and Slovenia. Trips typically stay in three- and four-star hotels and small inn, offer van support and trained guides. Choose to have VBT arrange your air fare and pre- and post-trip accommodation for a complete worry-free vacation. Land only packages are also offered for those of you who like to do your own planning. Single travelers are warmly welcomed on all trips and can choose to pay a supplement for their own room or be paired with another room mate. If for any reason VBT cannot find you a roommate, you will only pay 50 percent of the single supplement.
Vermont Bicycling Tours
614 Monkton Road
Bristol Vermont 05443-0711
(800) 245-3868 (1-800-BIKE-TOUR)
http://www.vbt.com
