Bike & Hotel Tour Reviews page 21
- Albania
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bosnia and H…
- Brazil
- Bulgaria
- Cambodia
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- England
- Estonia
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Holland
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Mexico
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Scotland
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Africa
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Thailand
- Turkey
- United States
- Vietnam
- ★★★★★ Peter Hitchen
Enjoyed very much. Well organised.
Rhine Bike Path: Mainz to Cologne
I felt that we were safe and in good hands should something have gone wrong - which it didn’t.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 20265
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Nancy Gillespie
Sixteen riders is too many to keep corralled
Grand Châteaux & Gardens of the Loire Valley
This trip could have been excellent, if only the number was smaller. Sixteen riders and two guides were way too many riders to keep together. We should have been divided into two groups.
The countryside was beautiful, and I enjoyed the stops at the many chateaus that dotted our route. The accommodations were very good. Chinon was probably my favorite, having a balcony overlooking the village square. Dinners were all good, one exceptional and the Salt and Pepper in Blois just okay.
The guides were nice, perhaps too nice; they did not take control of the group. There was no instruction on how to ride in a group and consequently, some riders were dangerous. Some stopped without warning and stopped whenever and wherever they pleased. As a result, of the sixteen riders, twelve fell at one point in the ride. Most of the problem was the inexperienced riders stopping without warning. An orientation from the guides on day 1 could have helped. Geez, even our four hour bike tour in Paris started with bicycle etiquette. And no guide advised the cyclist sucking on a lollipop and carrying a selfie stick the length of a golf club that she was a hazard.
The difference in fitness and skill level of the riders demanded two groups of cyclists, not one group of sixteen riders.
I’m an experienced cyclists with many tour companies around the world, thus I was extremely frustrated by the danger the inexperienced cyclists posed. Because of my competence and therefore invisibility, on day six, when I asked a guide if he knew my name, he replied incorrectly. Great reward for fitness and competence.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- Too many to count throughout the world: Vietnam twice, Portugal, Spain, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Patagonia, New Zealand
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Much easier
- Do you recommend this tour?
- No
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
- ★★★★★ Ann from Bend, OR
delightful part of Germany to explore
Munich & the Bavarian Lakes
We did a self-guided tour of Munich and the Bavarian Lakes in late August 2025. The trip was well-organized with on-point cue sheets and GPS and map for directions. The hotels were fantastic--large rooms, good breakfasts and great staff. The scenery was beautiful and the towns we stayed in had tons of Bavarian charm. Baggage delivery was well-managed and always arrived before the stated time.
Downsides were poor guidance at our introductory appointment. The coordinator--Jose-- miscommunicated the time of our intro and when we did work out a time to meet he was not very helpful. He didn't go over the routes and didn't help us with the bikes except when we insisted. We wanted to change out our pedals and he resisted helping us. He finally gave us a tool to help. My bike was too large for me even though I had given my height when I reserved. He didn't want to replace it with a bike that fit me and told me it might cost more to get a bit to fit me! I told him it was unacceptable to ride a bike that was too big for me as I could injure myself if I had to jump off. He finally agreed to get me a bike that fit. He gave us a pump that was broken and then didn't explain that the valves on the tires are set up to allow pumping at gas stations. Fortunately, at our first night's stop there was a Eurobike office next door to the hotel and we talked to Thomas-- managing that office. He was fantastic. Spent an hour with us explaining the bikes and giving us tips about the rest of the route and what to see and do.
The other downside which isn't a fault of the tour operator, but should be explained to Americans--is that about 1/3 of the regional cycle trails are gravel. Some are not well-maintained. Most of the rode biking in the US is done on paved roads so we were unprepared for so much gravel and I felt nervous going up and down the hills when it was hard to control the bike.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 8
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ David H.
Awesome introduction to France
Grand Châteaux & Gardens of the Loire Valley
I have done many cycling tours over the years, many with BikeTours.com. We have never used Chain Gang Cycling as a tour operator before and I know our group, which is an older group and not all the strongest riders, is probably more "needy" than the typical Chain Gang tour but they did a fantastic job of providing for all our needs. Our guides were excellent, we never got anyone lost.
BikeTours.com set up an excellent tour through a very beautiful and picturesque part of France. The average daily mileages were good for our group and the sights we saw along the way were amazing. Beautiful small country towns, rolling hills of farmland and forests, and incredible chateaus with magnificent gardens, lots of photo opportunities. We set up a few lovely picnic lunches on several of the ride days with the wonderful French baguettes and ham and cheese.
Our intrepid group of 16 riders managed the routes with a few hills with no real issues besides a couple of falls and a few bumps and bruises. Just part of cycling. We had lovely weather with the exception of one day where we got some rain. Lots of nice memories and new friends were made on this trip and we're already eagerly looking forward to our next BikeTours.com cycling trip in Poland in 2026!
- What was the date of your tour?
- Late August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 10
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
- ★★★★★ Nancy r
Spectacular!!!
Grand Châteaux & Gardens of the Loire Valley
My first trip to Europe and it far exceeded my expectations. The guides made the entire experience a dream come true. Everything was perfectly orchestrated-From the beautiful landscapes, castles and great food. Highly recommended-don’t miss it.
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
- ★★★★★ Krista A
Perfect!!
Grand Châteaux & Gardens of the Loire Valley
I loved seeing France this way! So much fun! The hotels and food were amazing! Our guides were the best!!!
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
- ★★★★★ Chris M.
Amazing Trip
Amsterdam to Bruges: Cycling through South Holland and Zeeland
Really amazing trip, as the paths in the Netherlands and Belgium are first-rate and a biker's haven. Pieter from our tour company was awesome. First-rate bikes and the GPS on this trip were flawless, which is the first time after completing six tours that I could say that. Additionally, we appreciated the selection of hotels on this tour. Definitely looking forward to another bike trip in Holland.
- ★★★★★ Gabby
Not as expected.
Venice to Florence: From Rialto Across the Sea to Ponte Vecchio
The route wasn’t as exciting as expected.
The basic bike offered is AWFUL, not suitable for these kind of trips. You have to pay for the “upgrade” one.
Customer service wasn’t good. They couldn’t accommodate any changes, even when requested 48 hours in advance.
Most hotels were disappointing although well located, with the exception of the first one in Mestre. It was in the middle of nowhere, it doesn’t make sense to start the trip from that place.
Not the best trip we’ve done for sure.- How many tours have you completed?
- 10 +
- Do you recommend this tour?
- No
- Countries included in this tour?
- Italy
- ★★★★★ mgkibben
Amazing opportunity
Along the Rhône River from Geneva to Lyon
This was a terrific way to see a beautiful part of Europe. Traveling by bike is always rewarding, but having all the logistics arranged made it that much more enjoyable.
The bike: I opted for the Trek FX 2 (hybrid, non-electric). This was a reasonable bike for some of the less groomed roads (I'd been disappointed not to have a road bike but I'm not sure a road frame would have handled some of the routes). Overall a decent ride.
The route: The GPS routing was good, but a bit outdated. Some of the trails selected had been washed out in the previous months and while there were detours on the paths, the GPS took a while to catch up once the trail was rejoined. There were a few times when the ViaRhona had a route sign but the GPS took an adjacent "sportier" route - which included a few two-tracks and steep grades. The day-to-day information on the route was helpful - especially when warning about significant climbs approaching the hotels.
The lodging: two of the three hotels were nothing short of lovely. Beautiful rooms, great amenities (restaurants, sitting areas), amazing location with beautiful views. The other three hotels were either good for location, but the rooms were just adequate.
Support: Pick up/drop off: Bruno was there at the time planned with all the information needed. Drop off couldn't have been simpler - just store it in the room the hotel had set aside. Communication leading up to the tour was consistent and responsive. There was a delay in receiving some of the more timely material. It came through WhatsApp on the day of travel and it would have been helpful to have had it sooner.
Overall, a great experience!
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- Several (with different companies)
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- France, Switzerland
- ★★★★★ Jim Grosd
Romantic Danube
Danube Bike Path 8 Nights (Upscale Lodging)
This was our fourth time riding this trip. One can never tire riding this beautiful cycle path, the beautiful countryside, small town’s and villages, farms, orchards, city centers and buildings that are hundreds of years old, castles, etc. We prefer to go with the “Upscale Version “, perhaps a reflection of our age. The hotels and locations were excellent.
We select the upgraded bikes and they were in perfect condition. We combined the “Tauren Krimml to Passau “ cycle route on this trip and enjoyed the ride immensely.
I have worked with “Bike Tours.com” for many years now and really appreciate the excellent customer service and support!
- ★★★★★ Joe M.
Off the beaten track.
Prague to Vienna via Cesky Krumlov
Great rural scenery, uncrowded roads, quaint historic towns. Nice itenerary.
- Countries included in this tour?
- Austria, Czech Republic
- ★★★★★ Michael F
Fantasic experince!!!
Danube Bike Path 7 Nights (Classic)
We enjoyed our trip from Passau to Austria. The local tour operator, Pedalo, did a great job interfacing with the hotels, moving our luggage and taking care of any issues with our bikes. Gave us everything we needed to succeed!
A few notes:
a) Be aware that the first two days are among the longer legs of the trip, so be prepared to leave early those days
b) The route goes on both sides of the Danube pretty much continuously, with a few diversions onto local roads from separated bike paths. You do not have to follow the recommended route if you want to check out something on the other side or save a few Euros from the bike ferries, but the planned route is a good one to follow. If you just follow the R1 / Danauweg signs toward the right towns you will be fine.
c) The hotels vary widely in quality and level of staffing. Check them out yourself during the booking process.We used regular bikes - if you choose e-bikes be sure you understand the range capabilities and where you can charge your bikes in the middle of the day if needed.
- ★★★★★ Christine D.
Exceeded all expectations!
Wild Atlantic Way Cycling
A bucket-list trip to Ireland was a college graduation gift for our daughter. We told her she could choose how we would spend our time. She chose a bike tour (I will be very, very honest, it was not how I would have chosen to spend the trip). We signed up for e-bikes. Despite my initial thoughts about a 7-day bike tour, that bike tour was the best part of our trip!!! Hands down, the BEST part of the trip! We had never ridden e-bikes, but the staff support and education were excellent. The transfers were smooth. The B&Bs were wonderful with wonderful hosts. The bikes and gear were well-maintained and of good quality. We used the app for navigation, which was easy to use and so helpful as our phones did not work off WiFi. The rides and suggested rides were perfectly paced to allow us freedom to explore, stop for lunch, get to our next town early, or to take a day a little more slowly. Experiencing Ireland by e-bike is really the ideal way. You move at a slow enough pace to drink in the amazing scenery, or stop and take it all in. The feel of the crisp, clean air on your face, the smell of the flowers and plants--it just intensifies the experience of exploring such a beautiful place. HIGHLY recommend! Worth every penny!
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- this was our first
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Ireland
- ★★★★★ Elaine Kubicki
Stunningly Beautiful
Bicycle Paths of the Dolomites (based in one hotel)
This was my third trip with Bike Tours and it did not disappoint! The setting at Hotel Laurin in Toblach, Italy was stunningly beautiful! Every ride surrounded you with mountain views. Most of the paths were paved and well marked. There were only a few moments of confusion regarding the path to take. Hotel Laurin was very accommodating and served excellent gourmet meals every night and a hearty breakfast in the morning. At the hotel, there were several saunas and a steam room as well as an outdoor pool that awaited you at the end of your ride. The only concern I had was the initial confusion around the maps and rides that were self-guided as well as how these particular e-bikes operated (the e-bikes were great once you figured out the mechanics of them). An orientation by the rental bike company, Fun Active Tours, that provided the maps and bikes, would have been most helpful; and, I was not the only guest who thought an orientation would be helpful. I also had a problem with my attempt to rent a helmet from Fun Active Tours that responded in a less than accommodating way. However, Bike Tours considered my situation and responded most helpfully. In all, it was a fabulous trip which I would highly recommend! Elaine Kubicki
- What was the date of your tour?
- June 3-8, 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- Three
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Italy
- ★★★★★ Sasha B
Great trip
Bolzano to Verona: Orchards, Mountains & Timeless Culture
I enjoyed the trip overall! Every day had beautiful scenery except for the last day. It was kind of boring. Some booked hotels did not have AC.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Italy
- ★★★★★ Carrie R
Amazing trip
Swiss Lakes by E-bike: Lake Geneva to Lake Lucerne
We were a family of 8 and we had the best time! We loved the route that was set up, we thought everyday was the highlight, then the next day would provide more. Loved being on our own schedule. The hotels picked were perfect, usually right on the water with great views. We enjoyed 2 hotels with spa/baths. It was a very hot week in Switzerland and most hotels did not have AC, which isn’t preferable, but the next week looked to be chilly and rainy, so I’ll take our perfect weather! We probably ate half of our dinners at the hotels and they were very good. The e-bikes were the best, everyone could get the amount of exercise they wanted. Batteries easily lasted all day. GPS and app were great and provided all the necessary info. They were comfortable. The luggage transport was seamless, usually arriving just after we did. The family thought it was one of the best trips we have taken and we travel a lot. We are already looking to do another. Great adventure!
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Switzerland
BikeTours.com staff reply from bozena_kusovac
Carrie,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! The way you describe your experience, together with the great photos, makes me want to take this tour straight away. We’re thrilled your family enjoyed the tour, and that it all came together as one of your best trips. We’d love to welcome you again for another adventure!
Bozena
- ★★★★★ Anne Jesse
Wonderful Tour to Little-Known Area
Alsace Wine Country
This is a wonderfully varied tour to an area that most Americans don't visit. The first two days are flat, along shaded canals and country roads. The next two days are hillier, through vineyards and historic towns. The final day has one last beautiful view over the Rhine River valley before descending to another flat day of riding along shady canals. The accommodations are wonderful and mostly in the center of town. The luggage service was reliable each day. The breakfasts were always well stocked. The bikes were well suited to the terrain with plenty of gears and strong tires.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- I have been bike touring for over 30 years and have bike toured in 58 countries.
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
Email
Mailing Address
Office Hours