From Salamanca, a World Heritage site, venture to the sleepy village of Lumbrales | Savor sweeping views as you bike into the Douro Valley and arrive at our ship
Multi-Day Tour | Escorted, Group
PORTUGAL'S DOURO RIVER CRUISE BIKE TOUR [BDUS] (8 days)
Backroads
Salamanca, Spain To Lisbon, Portugal
Valid for Departures Now Through: 31 Oct 2020
PORTUGAL'S DOURO RIVER CRUISE BIKE TOUR [BDUS] (8 days)
Day 1
Salamanca, Spain
Day 2
Salamanca, Spain
Day 3
Pinhao, Portugal
Day 4
Lamego, Portugal
Day 5
Resende, Portugal
Day 6
Entre-os-Rios, Portugal
Day 7
Porto, Portugal
Day 8
Lisbon, Portugal
Itinerary
| DAY | LOCATION(S) | HOTEL | MEALS | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Day 1
|
Salamanca, Spain |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Lunch, Dinner, Snack |
|
|
Day 2
|
Salamanca, Spain |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack |
Pedal in a vast natural park amid high plateaus and plunging gorges | Cycle to a fortified hilltop village for epic vistas into Portugal and Spain |
|
Day 3
|
Pinhao, Portugal |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack |
View the dazzling tiles in Pinhão, a mecca for wine lovers | Ride through the Alto Douro region, a World Heritage site |
|
Day 4
|
Lamego, Portugal |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack |
Ride along the river with a lovely backdrop of terraced vineyards | Enjoy lunch at a family-run quinta (winery) while admiring views of the riverside scenery | Visit Lamego, home of one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal |
|
Day 5
|
Resende, Portugal |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack |
A scenic ride takes you to small Portuguese hilltop towns before descending back to the river |Savor deckside views from aboard our ship |
|
Day 6
|
Entre-os-Rios, Portugal |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack |
Bike and cruise the final stretch of the Douro into Porto, where a private guided walking tour awaits | This alluring World Heritage city will charm you with its splendid architecture, winding alleyways and ever-changing views |
|
Day 7
|
Porto, Portugal |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack |
Bike along a wildlife-rich estuary, pine forests and the Atlantic Ocean |
|
Day 8
|
Lisbon, Portugal |
AmaWaterways AmaVida | Breakfast, Lunch |
Arrive back at our ship with superb vistas of Porto |
Tour Features
Experience(s)
Experiences have not been selected at this time
Description
The Douro River Valley—an idyllic place to venture off the beaten track. From Spain to Portugal, discover old-world Europe along this enchanting river. Jumbled hillside villages and sun-soaked vineyards. Churches clad in gleaming azulejos. Port wine in Porto. Experience one of Europe's best-kept secrets with us
About Us
Backroads offers deluxe biking, walking & hiking, multi-adventure and family vacations around the globe PLUS active river & ocean cruising, culinary tours, and snow adventures. All Backroads trips are fully escorted by 3 - 4 trip leaders and 2 support vans while guests travel at their own pace, enjoying exhilarating activities, cultural encounters, scenery, camaraderie and fun.
Insider Tip
At any pace, in any style, traveling with Backroads is not just about the bike or the boots. It’s a rich experience as we peel back the layers that make each destination unique.Terms & Conditions
Backroads Terms & Conditions - click here to view.
The trademarks VIRTUOSO, the Globe Swirl Logo and SPECIALISTS IN THE ART OF TRAVEL are registered trademarks of Virtuoso, Ltd. Virtuoso, Ltd. has a U.S. copyright registration for the Globe Swirl Logo, ©2000. All rights reserved. Virtuoso CST#2069091-50. California CST# 2069091; TA# 808 - Registered Iowa Travel Agency; Washington UBI # 601 554 183. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.
Reviews and Recommendations for Backroads
100%
of 103 guests
recommend
recommend
Virtuoso Verified Traveler
All reviews are from confirmed guests sharing exclusive insights
Sort reviews by
Recommended
Tuscany Backroads family adventure
By: mfaunt@msn.com
Reviewed on: 30 Jun 2014
Best family vacation ever! Backroads is our now "go to" vacation guide for family fun. http://makeitbetter.net/entertainment/outings-a-travel/6178-don-t-spin-your-wheels-the-best-bike-vacations
Travel Advisor:
Vivian Rubenstein
Recommended
A great Piedmonte trip
By: Dick
Reviewed on: 21 Sep 2013
I recently returned from a 6 day bicycle trip to the Piedmont region of Italy arranged and led through Backroads. This is my 10th Backroads trip,and one of my best. It has been my experience, with over 20 active vacations in the last 10 years, that the leaders and the fellow travelers make 70% of the trip. I have become confident that Backroads offers a consistently well thought out trip (with only 1-2 exceptions). This one, however, was a major winner. Go on it!!
Travel Advisor:
Birgit Navarre
Recommended
Great trip
By: Missy
Reviewed on: 07 Nov 2013
This was out second Backroads trip and it was great. We spent time in the Andes of Ecuador and then on the Galapagos. There were 8 guests and one guide. Loved the contract between the mountains and the tropical climate of the islands. The Andes were a pleasant surprise for us--beautiful, great food and great accommodations.
Travel Advisor:
Judi Chaitman
Recommended
An Incredible Trip with Backroads - Again
By: Rich8
Reviewed on: 25 Jun 2014
This is our 5th trip with Backroads and 2nd family trip. They provided the usual very reliable and outstanding experience. Our biking guide Nick was attentive, knowledgeable, fun and kept us all safe and happy. Our local guide Wayan made the trip special by immersing us in his culture. If you are looking for white sandy tropical beach island, there are lots of other places you can go besides Bali. What made the trip special was the people and the culture. Probably the friendliest people anywhere, always ready with a 'hello' in every village. Mindful and happy, the people and our local guides were a joy to be around. There was always a van nearby looking out for us. Meals and hotels were all good, especially the last stay and the first. Super family time that is priceless.
Travel Advisor:
Sam McClure
Recommended
LOVE Backroads!
By: Happy Camper
Reviewed on: 13 Aug 2014
Just returned from a solo/singles multi-sport (deluxe camping) trip in the Tetons and Yellowstone. The trip was amazing. I had been to this part of the country before but biking, hiking and kayaking through it and camping in the national parks gave me a completely different perspective. And Backroads is awesome. Every detail covered, every meal delicious. This is the way to camp.
Travel Advisor:
Lou deLisser
Recommended
Great Biking Trip
By: Ed
Reviewed on: 28 Aug 2014
We loved our biking trips with Backroads. The leaders were as friendly and helpful as possible. The biking was as expected and the route provided a good mix of small towns and the cultural sites so abundant in the area
Travel Advisor:
Linda Young
Recommended
Well organized, fun and challenging
By: EBD
Reviewed on: 18 Sep 2014
Loved this hiking trip to the Canadian Rockies. Backroads does an outstanding job of organizing the week---great hotels, staff. All you have to do is show up with the gear they suggest, be in shape for hiking and they take care of the rest. Our group of 15 was delightful.
Travel Advisor:
Michele Benigno
Recommended
Backroads Vietnam/Cambodia Trip
By: KevinPh
Reviewed on: 13 Feb 2015
Backroads is my favorite bike touring company. I have tried several over the years. Superb guides who work with local experts to bring you an in depth visit to an area that can only be done with the immersive element of biking or walking. Most impressed by the Vietnam crew.
Travel Advisor:
Gary Johnson
Recommended
Just right
By: Philippe
Reviewed on: 13 Feb 2015
Perfect trip. It was like a Swiss Version of Asia. Great work.
Travel Advisor:
Valerie Ann Wilson
Recommended
The best active travel company
By: Travel4evr
Reviewed on: 19 Jun 2015
Our family has traveled many times with Backroads. All the trips have been fantastic. They are very accommodating to varying levels of activity as well as interests. Details are handled, very relaxing and fun trips.
Travel Advisor:
Michele Grace
Recommended
family fun
By: joan&family
Reviewed on: 24 Jun 2015
We loved our Backroads Family cycling tour in Tuscany. We will travel with Backroads again and look forward to our next trip.
Travel Advisor:
Vicki Aubert
Recommended
Wonderful experience!
By: neg
Reviewed on: 05 Jul 2015
Our guides were excellent and all the sites and experiences were wonderful. Great people of the trip too!
Recommended
Ride #10
By: Teacher
Reviewed on: 12 Jul 2015
Backroads first time pairing with a river cruise ship was a huge success. We loved it. Learned so much about the Danube valley and all the countries along the way. Top notch job by the company and our leaders Cat and Martina.
Recommended
Never disappoints
By: Lois
Reviewed on: 14 Oct 2015
We have been on several Backroads trips and have never been disappointed. Cannot wait to do another!
Travel Advisor:
Sandy Bove
Recommended
Recommended
Great value/ terrific bundling of travel optios and requirements
By: Turk
Reviewed on: 25 Jul 2016
Avanti provides first class travel at reasonable prices.
Travel Advisor:
Alyse Cori
Recommended
Backroads Tour
By: Sue
Reviewed on: 02 Aug 2016
What an amazing company. The trip leaders and support person were so warm, knowledgeable, and upbeat. The bike routes, hotels, and meals were superior. I am planning to use them again for a future trip.
Travel Advisor:
Rose Field Passananti
Recommended
Awesome Guided Hiking Tour
By: Jim
Reviewed on: 10 Sep 2016
Backroads did an awesome job on organizing and leading a six day hiking tour in and around Yosemite National Park. All aspects of the trip were taken care of by the Backroads guides and their organization. The hikes they arranged were outstanding. Incredible scenery on every hike, plenty of options, and plenty of variety. The selection of three locations in/around Yosemite for the hikes was excellent. Each area is unique and each provides a different experience and scenery. All of the hotels on the trip were great (Tenaya Lodge, the Majestic, and Rush Creek). The food was excellent and plentiful. And the people in the tour group were very nice and friendly. I highly recommend Backroads. Many in the hiking group had previously traveled on Backroads, tours, so clearly they do a good job. I will definitely be using Backroads guided hiking services again.
Recommended
awesome bike trip
By: JB100
Reviewed on: 09 Sep 2016
Backroads was amazing! Michelin starred dinners, great guides, a private dinner at Moet and Chandon! Perfect!
Travel Advisor:
Marcie Kotler
Recommended
Travel made easy
By: Jenn78
Reviewed on: 26 Sep 2016
My Backroads trip was so well organized and the tour guides were friendly and helpful along the way. It was a great way to have a fun filled trip with none of the logistical hassle!
Recommended
Backroads
By: RolandExcellent trip
Reviewed on: 03 Oct 2016
The tour guide/driver was very knowledgeable and helpful. The trip agenda was excellent. We visited towns and villages that would not have been possible with a larger group or bus. Best tour we have been on
Travel Advisor:
Carolyn O'Meara
Recommended
Backroads Hiking
By: Happy Campers
Reviewed on: 06 Oct 2016
Great trip in every way!
Travel Advisor:
Natalie Rael
Recommended
our families most favorite vacations
By: sue65
Reviewed on: 29 Dec 2016
We just wrapped our 3rd Backroads trip, certainly not our last!! I just can't say enough about the logistical experts these folks are, how knowledgable, kind, and capable all the trip leaders have been. Oh, and the places you go don't stink either!!
Travel Advisor:
Frances Boyce
Recommended
Great service!
By: Dhoef
Reviewed on: 04 Jan 2017
Terri took care of all the details in booking our Backroads trip. She also kept records of all the information and had it available for us when we needed it.
Travel Advisor:
Terri Netzel
Recommended
Great Experience
By: Geoff
Reviewed on: 10 Jan 2017
the tour guides were so knowlegable, personable and user friendly. the company has advance teams and lots of resources so you are well taken care of from the time you arrive to the very end. the bikes they provided, hotels we stayed in, road trips, meals were all top notch and very comfortable and even better than I had expected. Would definitely be a repeat user.
Travel Advisor:
Shari Minsky
Recommended
Backroads Patagonia
By: Dick
Reviewed on: 28 Jan 2017
Excellent hiking. Good options.
Travel Advisor:
Alyse Cori
Recommended
New Zealand
By: Val
Reviewed on: 01 Mar 2017
fantastic. they did a great job - they were very organized. the guides were awesome and I would go on a backroads trip again!
Travel Advisor:
Gail Rosenberg
Recommended
Napa Valley Bike Tour
By: Amy
Reviewed on: 07 Jun 2017
I have done other Backroads tour and was disappointed in this tour. The guides are fantastic and of no issue. The tour was in Sonoma and we were biking on very busy roads. It was not what I expected and very stressful.
Travel Advisor:
Cristina Buaas
Recommended
Iceland Backroads Multisport
By: KJS
Reviewed on: 28 Jun 2017
Aaaaaamazing trip! Thank you Sam and Backroads! Couldn't have asked for a better trip! Leaders were wonderful!
Travel Advisor:
Sam McClure
Recommended
Outstanding trip
By: Edwin
Reviewed on: 09 Jul 2017
Yet another outstanding trip with Backroads. There is a reason this was trip #26 for us.
Recommended
Backroads
By: Barbara
Reviewed on: 17 Jul 2017
The Backroads trip to South Africa and Botswana was magical. Cycling to view the game was incredible; we've never experienced anything like it and recommend the trip to anyone
Travel Advisor:
Valerie Ann Wilson
Recommended
Bike trip Berlin yo Dresden
By: lynn
Reviewed on: 17 Jul 2017
We had a fantastic experience! It was our first Backroads trip and it couldnt have been better! Our guides (Ingo, Abdul and Anja) were amazing. All extremely knowledgeable, highly skilled and personable. They really added to making the trip perfect! All accommodations- from the bikes to the meals, hotels, speakers, routes and transportation were first rate!
Travel Advisor:
Kathy Moran
Recommended
Backroads
By: Anonymous
Reviewed on: 18 Jul 2017
This was my 11th trip with Backroads. They get better with every trip.
Travel Advisor:
Alyse Cori
Recommended
I highly recommend Backroads
By: Rachel
Reviewed on: 03 Aug 2017
We had a great experience biking and hiking in Glacier and Waterton National Parks with Backroads. The guides were outstanding, and they delivered top notch service. This was our second Backroads trip, and we are looking forward to a third.
Travel Advisor:
Marisa L. Cole
Recommended
Top notch company
By: Pete
Reviewed on: 05 Aug 2017
This was our first Backroads experience and I couldn't have been happier. The guides we had were wonderful, every detail was planned and I didn't have to worry about a single thing.
Travel Advisor:
Frances Boyce
Recommended
Backroads Croatia
By: hj
Reviewed on: 21 Sep 2017
Backroads was an incredible operator to work with. The guides made the entire trip seamless. Every detail was thought out, from transporting our luggage to making sure the kids had plenty of fun & adults had their time as well. There were different levels of activity and they made sure we were aware of the differences each day, made suggestions based on our abilities or our mood and were so thoughtful to our every need. My son was sick one day on the trip and they even called to hotel to check in on us to see how he was doing. I would highly recommend Backroads to other travelers and we can't wait to do another trip with them.
Travel Advisor:
Carol Brant
Recommended
Active travel at its finest
By: Nburd
Reviewed on: 31 Aug 2017
This was our first Backroads trip, and we loved it! Our tour guides, Paul and Francis, encouraged us, provided wonderful gourmet roadside picnics and rest stops. This type of trip is not for the faint of heart! We had to get up to an alarm every morning, and we fell into bed exhausted every night. However, the hotels were upscale and comfortable, the meals were fantastic, and the people we met and traveled with were some of the nicest we have ever met. We will certainly do this type of trip again!
Travel Advisor:
Michael Kempinski
Recommended
Backroads
By: Jon
Reviewed on: 07 Sep 2017
A phenomenal family adventure!
Travel Advisor:
Helen Papa
Recommended
Backroads is excellent
By: Bob
Reviewed on: 16 Sep 2017
Top notch active vacation.
Travel Advisor:
Laura Hartman
Recommended
Croatia Backroads Hiking trip
By: Rebecca
Reviewed on: 25 Sep 2017
Amazing, as usual! This was my sixth hiking trip with Backroads and I already have my seventh and eighth trips with them planned. Too many adventures to choose from and too little time!
Travel Advisor:
Alyse Cori
Recommended
Slim
By: Slim
Reviewed on: 21 Sep 2017
Second Backroads Trip and looking forward to going on another trip.
Travel Advisor:
Bowden Sarrett
Recommended
Backroads Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard bike tour
By: Maisie
Reviewed on: 21 Sep 2017
Backroads is a company my husband and I have been on many trips with. We had not been on a trip with them for quite a few years due to a lot of things going on in our lives. When we finally could do a trip, we found the level of their guides to be the same outstanding level. They work tirelessly from very early in the morning to late at night to insure that everyone's needs are met with a very happy attitude.
I was also impressed with the hotel and restaurant selections.
The bikes had improved by leaps and bounds since our last trip. No one ever lost a chain or had a flat. That's the first time that ever happened. They now have a GPS on the bikes as well. I would definitely recommend them to anyone wanting a bike, walking, hiking or multi sports tour.
I understand they now do cruises as well.
Travel Advisor:
Nancy Yale
Recommended
I d
By: Nicki
Reviewed on: 02 Oct 2017
I didn't take the tour
Recommended
Recommended
Highlights of Britain
By: Banjo
Reviewed on: 05 Oct 2017
Excellent tour with comfortable accommodation and good meals. The exposure to the British countryside was great and what we were looking for.
Would have liked more provided meals to obviate the need to hunt out somewhere to eat in a town that we were not familiar with.
One highlight among many, was the Scottish piper and dinner at the castle on our last night.
Our tour leader and driver provided good service.
Recommended
Incredible Guides, Great trip!
By: Mary Bell
Reviewed on: 24 Oct 2017
This was my first Backroads experience and I could not have been more impressed with our guides. We had so much fun! Our guides planned everything carefully, anticipating our every need and making sure we were enjoying ourselves. There were different hiking goals and abilities within our group and they accommodated each of us with alternative hikes and itineraries each day. They were knowledgeable about the history and the geology of the area we hiked in Utah and they answered every one of our questions. They were interesting and clever, but what was the most amazing was their patience and thoughtfulness.
Travel Advisor:
Sally May
Recommended
Croatia
By: nrb
Reviewed on: 08 Oct 2017
Backroads provides a wonderful combination of activity and culture in gorgeous settings and ( mostly) luxurious accommodations.
Travel Advisor:
Ewa Duranovic
Recommended
Duoro River
By: Andi
Reviewed on: 16 Oct 2017
Backroads did an incredible job!! Every detail was attended to by our guides.
We loved the Duoro River and all its beauty. The biking, the accommodations, the
food and all the support was perfect!!
It was an 11 out of 10!!
Travel Advisor:
Jennifer Weiss
Recommended
Sedona hiking trip
By: Rachelle
Reviewed on: 12 Nov 2017
Outstanding!
Every detail from our hiking route, snacks, meals, resorts, ...was taken care of. All I had to do was show up in my hiking gear and have a fabulous day. Our leaders were amazing....fantastic personalities! Went out of their way to ensure everyone was happy and well taken care of. Met so many wonderful people. Was an experience of a lifetime. Can’t wait until my next backroads trip:)
Travel Advisor:
Sheila Gallant-Halloran
Recommended
Bicycle trip to Israel
By: Grandmabike
Reviewed on: 29 Oct 2017
Fabulous! They were very attentive! Great input and guiding!!
Travel Advisor:
Rochelle Lieberman
Recommended
Israel
By: Rebecca Hernreich
Reviewed on: 29 Oct 2017
I havd done many trips with Backroads and love them.
Travel Advisor:
Rochelle Lieberman
Recommended
Backroads is the best!
By: Sharon
Reviewed on: 30 Oct 2017
Backroads makes your trip unforgettable, They provide an unparalleled level of service; are meticulous with the details, and manage everything seamlessly. Highly recommend Backroads.
Travel Advisor:
Sandie Harman
Recommended
California Wine Country
By: Zac
Reviewed on: 02 Dec 2017
Once again a consistently high quality, well planned and executed tour from Backroads.
Travel Advisor:
Brigitte Feinberg
Recommended
Yet another magical BR trip
By: Nancy
Reviewed on: 26 Nov 2017
I think this was my right trip with Backroads. I can’t rave enough about traveling with them. The hotels in the premier trips are
Magical. The guides are all bright, energetic and enthusiastic individuals. The local guides are wonderful extensions to the regular guides. What I love most is all of
The cultural stops and historical sites that they expose us to. I am learning and riding all day every day. I am an avid rider and they accommodate my riding as well as novice
Riders
Travel Advisor:
Susan Sparks
Recommended
Terrific
By: Toni
Reviewed on: 30 Nov 2017
Backroads is the best. Great planning, great execution. Hiking was terrific, and allowed as to acclimate to the high altitude before the most strenuous hikes. In depth information re history and culture of Peru and Macchu Picchu area. Great Backroads guides and fabulous local guide. Lovely group of traveling partners as well.
Travel Advisor:
Jamo Ladd
Recommended
Thailand
By: HQ
Reviewed on: 15 Jan 2018
They were incredible! They thought of everything and made sure we were taken care of at every turn. My daughter a health concern & they were amazing.
Travel Advisor:
Shonah Rabman
Recommended
Fantastic trip...again!
By: Kristy
Reviewed on: 10 Jan 2018
We loved this trip and would recommend it to anyone looking to explore Thailand!
Travel Advisor:
Shari Minsky
Recommended
Unbelievably Fantastic!!
By: JeannieM
Reviewed on: 08 Feb 2018
The Backroads team are AMAZING. From the moment we met the guides every whim addressed, every detail anticipated, every accommodation excellent, the activities were so fun, and the guides were the most congenial, funny, caring, knowledgable and fun group of people. Every day was different and fun. Every choice was met with support and encouragement. Every adventure was unique. Every guest was happy and received personal attention with a smile regardless of how big or small the need or request.
I've completed 3 Backroads trips - each has been unique and exceptional... each has been extraordinary.
Travel Advisor:
Candy Overland Davis
Recommended
Our "go-to" travel company
By: FL traveler
Reviewed on: 23 Mar 2018
Backroads is an amazing company, that continues to "up" their game, always providing the most knowledgeable, capable, well trained guides, who can think on their feet. We love traveling with Backroads in Asia, as they provide additional in-country personnel, so that every customer can be satisfied that this is "their" vacation. The chosen hotels and restaurants are always top shelf, and the itinerary allows us to get off the beaten track, and actually meet and travel alongside the "people". A great way to learn about and be immersed in local culture. We love Backroads!
Travel Advisor:
Sally Shekane VCTA
Recommended
Ride💪🏻, EAT!, Relaaaaax, Repeat.
By: InnerCompass
Reviewed on: 29 Apr 2018
Sorely in need of a reboot after a tumultuous 2 years, I reluctantly opted for my first Backroads trip: Arizona’s Tucson and Sonoran Desert - Red Rock and Blue Sky. I’m a sea level cruiser, not a distance cyclist. Yet, this excursion made me feel like a Desert Road Warrior. Upright handlebars and battery assist bike options made elevation and uphills a snap. Immersed in surreal nature and sweeping vistas, my self imposed intimidation faded to a distant memory. The tirelessly hard working Staff patiently accommodated, and miraculously anticipated, the needs of our group of 22 couples and solos. Be prepared to EAT! The words “picnic lunch” are a modest description for the health conscious smorgasbord provided daily en route, not to mention the “pre-ride snack buffet.” Premier accommodations put the “AH” in amazing for a completely fulfilling vacation. Thank you Backroads for introducing me to an LTR with the Open Road❣️
Travel Advisor:
Charissa Popp
Recommended
mallorca
By: spring break
Reviewed on: 26 Apr 2018
Fantastic. I love how detailed the planning is.
Travel Advisor:
Terri Netzel
Recommended
Backroads Nova Scotia
By: CDE
Reviewed on: 29 Sep 2018
Excellent staff, communication, support. It was a great trip to take with my adult son.
Travel Advisor:
Bowden Sarrett
Recommended
Absolutely Amazing!
By: Lori
Reviewed on: 25 May 2018
The whole experience was 5 Stars! Trip leaders were outstanding, food & hotels were better than imaginable and the hiking was breathtaking and fun. Overall it was far more than I expected and can't wait to go on another one!
Travel Advisor:
Martha Rhodes
Recommended
The BEST
By: Ruthie
Reviewed on: 02 Jun 2018
These were our 9th and 10th Backroads trips, so we are big Backroads fans :)
Travel Advisor:
Sally May
Recommended
Backroads An Awesome company
By: Maureen
Reviewed on: 03 Jun 2018
We loved traveling with Backroads. The guides were so well organized, kind and knowledgeable. Our path each day was well planned and they offered options for those wanting more/less activity. The food was delicious and healthy!
Seeing a foreign country on foot was a game changer. As a family we thought it was one of our best trips ever!
Travel Advisor:
Gabrielle Warncke
Recommended
The best travel company around!
By: Gigiburd
Reviewed on: 07 Jun 2018
We can’t say enough good about Backroads! We are avid cyclists who also love to travel the world. Backroads provides excellent quality bicycles and equipment. Their guides are friendly, helpful, and extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the areas they travel and the work they do.
From exquisite dinners at marvelous restaurants to first class accommodations to road snacks and first aid, Backroads has everything covered.
We always get our money’s worth of activity and fun, and we meet interesting people who are passionate about the same things we are. We believe Backroads is the best active travel company around!
Travel Advisor:
Michael Kempinski
Recommended
Walking southern France and the French Riviera
By: Shig
Reviewed on: 06 Jun 2018
We were the first group to go on this new Backroads trip. The three guides did a fabulous job exposing us to the local scenery and the local food. The walks were beautiful and there were several daily routes we could take depending on how far we wanted to walk. The hotels were spectacular.
Travel Advisor:
Julie Garcia
Recommended
Backroads
By: Micki
Reviewed on: 24 Jun 2018
Love Backroads trips, have done 15
Travel Advisor:
Natalie Rael
Recommended
5 Stars for BackRoads and Carol Fernandez
By: Alice and Scott Spencer
Reviewed on: 22 Jun 2018
BackRoads planned a magnificent experience for us on the Amalfi Coast. We were enthralled with the views, hikes, meals and camaraderie. It was beautiful, unforgettable, lifetime experience! Our guides, Caterina, Alexandra and Philipo were enthusiastic, kind and overall, fantastic.
Carol Fernandez is a terrific agent. She spent a lot of time helping us plan our trip to Italy which included days before and after our vacation with BackRoads. Ms. Fernandez assisted us in getting reduced airfares and quality hotels. She gave us good advice about locations, getting tickets in advance to special tours, and she kept track of our arrival and departure flights. Ms. Fernandez is experienced, knowledgeable, and truly interested in her clients.
Travel Advisor:
Carol Fernandez
Recommended
Fabulous
By: Pam
Reviewed on: 27 Jun 2018
Backroads is the best. The attention to detail, great guides, wonderful hotels and meals. Will definitely go on another backroads trip
Travel Advisor:
Cristina Buaas
Recommended
Backroads tour of Ireland
By: Peter Kierath
Reviewed on: 27 Jun 2018
Very well organized and managed tour.
Guide was really excellent - very friendly and great knowledge.
Accommodation and small bus could not have been better.
I enjoyed the tour of Ireland very much.
Recommended
Normandy-Brittany Cycling Tour
By: Kevin Thomas
Reviewed on: 27 Jun 2018
The guides are what make these trips fantastic. They set up your bikes and GPS and look after you along the way each day. They are calm, patient and friendly and by the end of the week you realize how hard they work. I thought I'd miss my own road bike but discovered their titanium bikes had electronic shifters and were a real treat to ride.
The daily routes took us along the shores (where D-Day had occurred) and being there made me really appreciate and think about the sacrifice that generation had made. The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial was dramatic and beautiful. Many of us were choked up as we gazed at the thousands of grave markers. I loved cycling through the country roads and small towns and seeing all the beautiful stone buildings. Mont Saint Michel and Saint Malo were remarkable as well. We stayed at beautiful casual chateaus and the daily meals were wonderful. It was enjoyable to get to know each of the folks who were also on the tour.
Travel Advisor:
Kim Davis-Smith
Recommended
Champagne Alsace
By: Phil T
Reviewed on: 10 Jul 2018
.We had a great experience Backroads. The trip was organized extremely well with great food, lodging, biking and leaders. I highly recommend Backroads travel
Travel Advisor:
Valerie Ann Wilson
Recommended
Fantastic Tour
By: Vneidell
Reviewed on: 09 Jul 2018
Backroads was wonderful. This was my first trip with them, and everything was taken care of. Our guides were delightful. Our daily schedule if hikes and food was exactly what I was looking for. I wanted to be active and eat well. I will definitely go on another tour with them in the future.
Recommended
Italy - Tuscany / Amalfi Coast
By: Tuscany
Reviewed on: 09 Jul 2018
Backroads was very organized, their website is easy to navigate and their guides were efficient and accommodating.
Recommended
Backroads Trip to Canadian Rockies
By: Kathleen W.
Reviewed on: 17 Jul 2018
This was our fourth trip with Backroads. The leaders were knowledgeable, friendly and organized. They really made the trip for us. Accommodations and food were perfect. We are already planning our next Backroads trip!
Travel Advisor:
Grace Shpiz
Recommended
Yosemite
By: LisaW
Reviewed on: 17 Jul 2018
Had a great time in Yosemite with awesome trip leaders Katy, Stefan and Tony. The group was great and the trip was perfect. The scenery didn’t hurt!
Travel Advisor:
Kathryn Schutz
Recommended
Italian Lakes
By: Susan
Reviewed on: 26 Jul 2018
Absolutely unbelievable! This was our second backroads trip and we will definitely do a lot more of them. Our leaders were amazing and the hotels and food were incredible! Laura was truly outstanding and great about what we should do every day. Everything was taken care of and it was such an easy way to travel. They take care of everything down to a clean bathroom every few hours. I would definitely recommend backroads! And we will do lots more of these trips!
Travel Advisor:
Michelle Jaykus Peck
Recommended
Hiking in Tetons
By: BR
Reviewed on: 29 Jul 2018
Well organized adventure travel with focus on Guest preferences.
Travel Advisor:
Frances Boyce
Recommended
Seventh Backroads trip - on to the next!
By: Rebecca
Reviewed on: 06 Aug 2018
Superb, as usual! Looking forward to my Backroads Japan hiking trip in a few months!
Travel Advisor:
Alyse Cori
Recommended
So fun
By: Stc
Reviewed on: 03 Aug 2018
We have taken many Backroads trips and they have always impressed us. The fact that everything is taken care of for you is great. And the guides have the best personalities.
Travel Advisor:
Dana Daza
Recommended
first class
By: Punch
Reviewed on: 04 Aug 2018
I really didn't comprehend how top-drawer Backroads was until I was immersed in this hiking trip in the Alps. I was just about the only participant who was a newbie. Everyone else had been on multiple excursions with them. The guides are almost impossibly kind, understanding, competent, and, in this case, athletic. Hotels are magnificent, food the same. But the very best thing about Backroads is the guides' good-natured willingness to accommodate the hike or bike to every single diverse person on their trips, no matter their interests or abilities. And the caliber of people who do Backroads trips is high. You will make friends; you will be impressed; you will do a Backroads trip again!
Travel Advisor:
Brenda Tolson
Recommended
Backroads - Cinque Terre and Chianti
By: Harris C
Reviewed on: 03 Aug 2018
Having never done a Backroads experience, my wife and I had no idea what to expect and hoped for a great time. Having recently returned from our journey I can say with full confidence this was the highlight of our vacation and one of the most fulfilling trips we have ever done. We had the most amazing time getting to do more than just see parts of Italy, but experience them - much of which I attribute to our wonderful guides, Luca, Eleonora and Ben. They went out of their way to accommodate our needs, get know us and ensure that they crafted our trip to everyone's ability and interests. They taught us about the history of the areas we traveled through and introduced us to the culture - by the end of our trip we almost felt Italian! I'm not sure what other guides are like, but if this is the standard for Backroads, they are definitely doing something right. I cannot express my appreciation for our guides enough as they truly went above and beyond to make our experience so great!
Travel Advisor:
Deborah Pulliam
Recommended
European vacation
By: Jen
Reviewed on: 18 Aug 2018
Great organization and tour leaders.
Travel Advisor:
Grace Shpiz
Recommended
Backroads is wonderful
By: Laurie
Reviewed on: 23 Aug 2018
Our experience with Backroads was wonderful. This was our fifth trip with Backroads. The trip leaders were once again amazing--extremely knowledgeable, kind, patient, funny, inspiring, and always concerned with safety. They spend a lot of preparation time and it shows. Every detail was handled perfectly. The hikes, hotels, transfers, meals were all stellar. I definitely recommend Backroads.
Travel Advisor:
Nathan Cripps
Recommended
Perfection!
By: Skl
Reviewed on: 23 Aug 2018
Backroads thought of everything! The locations and routes were amazing, our guides were outgoing and knowledgeable...what a great way to experience a new country! We’re already planning next year’s adventure!
Travel Advisor:
Kristen Fernandez
Recommended
Always a good experience
By: GK
Reviewed on: 23 Aug 2018
Always very fun and experienced.
Travel Advisor:
Cristina Buaas
Recommended
Backroads was great!
By: Dlm
Reviewed on: 30 Aug 2018
We did a family backroads trip. It was very active and very fun. Everyone has a great time and enjoyed learning about the culture and history of the Dolomites. I would highly recommend backroads.
Travel Advisor:
Julia Slatcher
Recommended
Top Notch Trip Leaders
By: MTC
Reviewed on: 04 Sep 2018
This is our 3rd trip with Backroads. Their organization, planning and ( most of all) the quality of their trip leaders makes traveling with them effortless and a pleasure.
Travel Advisor:
Jennifer Weiss
Recommended
Hiking in the Northwest
By: John
Reviewed on: 13 Sep 2018
Backroads, and particularly, its trip leaders are outstanding. A hiking trip we took in the San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park was well planned and extremely enjoyable due to the talents of the three trip leaders and support staff.
Travel Advisor:
Jennifer Royster
Recommended
Spain
By: ktausendfreund@cogeco.ca
Reviewed on: 03 Nov 2018
Excellent- can’t say enough positive things. Great tour guides, route, food and accommodations
Travel Advisor:
Linda Vaughan
Recommended
Italy
By: val
Reviewed on: 24 Sep 2018
this is our third trip with Backroads - they are a quality company - I believe they do everything they can to make sure we have a great experience. I love traveling with them!
Travel Advisor:
Gail Rosenberg
Recommended
Prince William Sound to Denali
By: ArtR
Reviewed on: 22 Sep 2018
This was our first trip with Backroads; many of our companions had traveled with them before. They made the best of the available time, with rafting on the Placer River, a terrific boat ride in Prince William Sound, and two days in Denali. The tour leaders were a total pleasure, the lodging was excellent, and all in all it was a great experience. We will travel with Backroads again.
Travel Advisor:
Cristina Buaas
Recommended
Biking in Spain
By: Susan F
Reviewed on: 01 Oct 2018
Backroads is an excellent travel provider. They offer amazing adventures in the US and Internationally. The itineraries provide wonderful cultural stops, top dining, and lodging.
If you have a chance to take a Backroads trip, you should do it. The leaders are very five-star!
Travel Advisor:
Sharon Strickland
Recommended
Backroads Review
By: Laura
Reviewed on: 01 Oct 2018
I have taken other Backroads trips but this was the best. Beautiful scenery, food and accommodations. Best was our amazing leaders who took great care of us. Wonderful accommodations and lots of good food and great (but hard) biking.
Travel Advisor:
Sharon Strickland
Recommended
backroads
By: travel
Reviewed on: 06 Oct 2018
I would highly recommend the company.
Travel Advisor:
Judi Chaitman
Recommended
Fabulous support and organization of trip!
By: Laura
Reviewed on: 14 Oct 2018
We loved our bike trip through Tuscany! Backroads and our guides prepared a flawless 5 and a half days, for biking, meals, sights, hotels, and information about the area. The support, especially with the electrical bikes and navigation systems, was very valuable and guaranteed a worry-free vacation.
Travel Advisor:
Nathan Cripps
Recommended
Biking with Backroads
By: Susan Rogel
Reviewed on: 20 Oct 2018
Our biking trip was planned perfectly! The routes were well planned, and the support was perfect! We loved our trip in Tuscany!!
Travel Advisor:
Rochelle Lieberman
Recommended
Recommended
Excellent for biking, hiking, and kayaking!
By: Bob A.
Reviewed on: 16 Nov 2018
Great not only for active younger people, but they give less strenuous options for older folks (I am 74) or those who are novices or don't exercise regularly.
Travel Advisor:
Laura Hartman
Recommended
Vietnam and Cambodia
By: Chris
Reviewed on: 17 Dec 2018
Without question, the eight days we spent with Backroads in Vietnam and Cambodia were life-changing: massive amounts of fun and unbelievably interesting. The guides were astonishing in their kindness and ingenuity. The logistics were seamless. It was a perfect trip
Travel Advisor:
Catherine Newton-Quinn
Recommended
all went well, but I won't remember this trip in a year
By: moo
Reviewed on: 30 Dec 2018
Went to places that I wouldn't get to, but half of our tour got sick one day. Not sure if it was the heat or the food or both. Should have hotels with air conditioning.
Travel Advisor:
Geordie McDonald
Recommended
Backroads Fan!
By: Janet
Reviewed on: 08 Jan 2019
This was my fourth trip with Backroads and not my last. Every trip has had fun and skilled leaders, the right amount of activities each day, and great people in the group.
Travel Advisor:
Didi Johnson