Gravel biking has surged in popularity as cyclists seek out new adventures beyond paved roads, craving the thrill of exploration and the beauty of untouched landscapes. Gravel bike tours are more than just cycling experiences; they are immersive journeys through some of the world's most breathtaking and lesser-known terrains. These tours cater to adventurers who yearn to explore off-the-beaten-path routes, with the freedom to traverse a mix of surfaces, from dirt roads and forest trails to gravel paths. The versatility of gravel biking means that every tour is a unique adventure, promising both the thrill of the ride and the awe of discovery.
Gravel bikes offer the freedom to ride wherever you'd like, mixing up trails with back roads - the perfect vehicle for any adventure
Back roads, trails, cycle paths? All of the above, please!
Selecting the perfect gravel bike tour depends on several factors, including your skill level, fitness, and what you want to experience. Consider tours that offer:
1. Girona and Catalonia, Spain: A Gravel Biking Paradise. Girona and Catalonia have long been celebrated as a cycling haven, attracting riders from around the globe with their stunning landscapes and challenging routes. For gravel biking enthusiasts, this region offers an unparalleled mix of terrains—from the rugged Pyrenees to the serene beaches of the Costa Brava. Gravel routes in Girona and Catalonia meander through medieval villages, lush forests, and volcanic fields, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and natural beauty. The area's mild climate makes it an ideal year-round destination for gravel biking, inviting riders to experience the warmth of Spanish hospitality, exquisite cuisine, and a vibrant cycling culture that's second to none.
2. The Algarve, Portugal: Coastal Trails and Country Roads.
The Algarve's diverse landscapes make it a dream destination for gravel biking. From the Atlantic coast's dramatic cliffs and golden beaches to the serene beauty of the Guadiana Natural Park, gravel bike tours in the Algarve promise adventure and breathtaking vistas at every turn. Cyclists can explore the region's historical sites, such as ancient Moorish castles and traditional Portuguese villages, adding a cultural depth to their journey. The Algarve's well-maintained gravel paths, combined with its sunny climate, offer perfect riding conditions to experience the thrill of gravel biking in a uniquely captivating setting. Click here for more information on our gravel bike tour in Algarve.
3. Tuscany, Italy: Rolling Hills and Historic Beauty.
Tuscany is a region synonymous with art, history, and stunning landscapes. Its rolling hills, dotted with cypress trees, vineyards, and olive groves, provide a picturesque backdrop for gravel biking. The region's white gravel roads, known as "Strade Bianche," are famous in the cycling world and offer a mix of challenging rides and scenic beauty. Cycling through Tuscany on a gravel bike allows riders to immerse themselves in the heart of Italian culture, with opportunities to taste world-renowned wines, savor traditional Italian cuisine, and explore Renaissance towns and villages. Tuscany's blend of natural beauty and rich history makes it an unforgettable destination for cyclists seeking the essence of gravel biking.
Preparing for a gravel bike tour goes beyond sheer excitement; it involves equipping yourself with the right gear and knowledge to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Here are some essentials:
Stop for a cafe mid ride during a gravel bike tour in Portugal
Embarking on a gravel bike tour requires not only the spirit of adventure but also a foundation of physical fitness and skill. Here's how to prepare:
Gravel biking brings us closer to nature and rural communities, making it imperative to ride responsibly and sustainably:
Incorporating these elements into your preparation, training, and conduct ensures not only a memorable and enjoyable gravel bike tour but also a responsible and sustainable adventure. By gearing up properly, preparing your body, and committing to eco-friendly practices, you’re set for an exceptional experience on the gravel paths.
Upgrade your riding experience on all Live Love Ride road bike tours with our new and electrifying Scott Addict E-Ride bikes, that are here to turbocharge your fun!
Imagine this: you're cruising through the sun-drenched vineyards of the Douro Valley or the olive groves of Andalucía, with a warm gentle breeze pushing your back, and the only sound is the gentle hum of your Scott Addict E-Ride. No more huffing and puffing – just pure, unadulterated cycling bliss. You'll conquer climbs, cruise the countryside and ride further than ever before.
Available on all our road bike tours, the Scott Addict E-Ride is like having a personal wind god gently nudging you up those hills. It seamlessly blends human power with electric assistance, amplifying your effort, not replacing it. Think of it as a magic key that unlocks hidden reserves of energy, allowing you to conquer climbs with a smile and enjoy the ride, not just endure it.
Check out the E-Addict's specs
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a weekend warrior, this e-bike levels the playing field. It allows riders of different fitness levels to pedal together, explore further, and create lasting memories – no one gets left behind!
Ths bike is packed with a MAHLE X-20 motor hub: a lightweight, powerful motor that provides seamless assistance, adapting to your pedaling input for a natural feel. It disengages above 25 km/h - 20 miles/h, so you can experience the pure joy of unassisted cycling when the terrain allows. The 236Wh battery battery ensures you have enough pedal power to conquer even the most demanding routes. Its integrated downtube battery, with its sleek design, keeps the weight low and balanced, enhancing handling and making the bike feel incredibly responsive.
But you'll still be riding a road bike, and experience the stiffness and lightness of Scott's carbon fiber technology, with fully internal cable routing, ensuring a racy, aerodynamic and comfortable ride -and the 24 speed SHIMANO electronic shift system will give you the feel of being in full control of a modern-age racing machine.
So, are you ready to ditch the doubt and embrace the zest for life? Join us on our 2024 bike group tours in Portugal and Spain, and experience the magic of the Scott Addict E-Ride.
We'll conquer climbs, cruise the countryside and create memories that will last a lifetime. With the Scott Addict E-Ride, that journey will be electrifyingly fun for everyone!
Contact us below for more info on where are these bikes available:
In the spirit of continuous commitment to our planet, Live Love Ride's "1 ride = 1 tree" initiative has once again left a green footprint in the heart of Portugal. This February, we are thrilled to announce the planting of 200 new trees in the majestic Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais, specifically in the Tapada da Urzeira area. This effort was made possible on the 16th of February, marking another milestone in our journey towards sustainability and environmental stewardship - an additional 200 trees will soon be planted in the upcoming months.
The selected location, Tapada da Urzeira, has been under the threat of ecological degradation due to the rampant spread of invasive exotic species. Our intervention, in collaboration with Portuguese NGP "Plantar Uma Árvore" and supported by the Protecção Civil Florestal de Cascais and the Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas, aims to rejuvenate this land. By reintroducing endemic vegetation and managing invasive species, we're not just planting trees—we're revitalizing ecosystems, promoting biodiversity, and significantly reducing fire risks.
Our palette of native species planted this year includes:
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to make this event a success. Your enthusiasm and hard work are the seeds of change that help our initiatives thrive!
A special thank you goes to our guests, whose participation in our bike tours directly contributes to these environmental efforts. Your choice to ride with Live Love Ride is a choice to support a greener, more sustainable future. Together, we are making strides in preserving the stunning landscapes we love to explore, ensuring they remain vibrant and accessible for generations to come.
An additional 200 trees will be planted in the upcoming months - stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to contribute to our green initiatives. Your ride can make a difference, and together, we ride towards a better tomorrow.
Join us in our next adventure and be a part of this meaningful journey. Live, Love and plant this idea!
Planning a cycling vacation in Europe is an exhilarating experience, especially when you're looking for luxury and adventure. At Live Love Ride, we understand the nuances that turn a good cycling trip into an unforgettable journey. Here's your ultimate guide to making your European cycling dreams a reality.
Choosing Your Ideal European Cycling Destination Europe's diversity offers a range of experiences for cyclists. From the sun-kissed coasts of Portugal to the rugged landscapes of Spain, every region has its unique charm. Consider what type of scenery inspires you, the cultural experiences you're interested in, and the level of challenge you're seeking. Explore our detailed guide on Portugal's cycling tours for more insights.
Timing Your Journey: When to Cycle in Portugal and Spain The best time to embark on your cycling journey largely depends on the region. Spring and early autumn are ideal for Portugal, offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Spain, meanwhile, is best enjoyed in late spring or early autumn. Read more about the best routes to explore Spain on a bike tour.
The Live Love Ride Advantage: What Sets Us Apart At Live Love Ride, we go beyond just planning routes. Our tours are curated to offer an immersive experience, blending cycling with cultural discoveries, culinary delights, and luxurious relaxation. "The attention to detail and personalized service were beyond expectations," says John M., a satisfied guest from our Andalusian tour.
Customizing Your Cycling Experience: Tailored Tours for Every Cyclist Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a leisure enthusiast, we tailor our tours to your preferences. We offer a variety of routes, from challenging climbs to serene coastal paths. Lisa G. shares her experience: "The custom route planning made my Portugal tour a dream come true! The support team was fantastic." Discover more about our personalized tours in our article on tailoring your cycling experience. Read more guest reviews here.
Conclusion: Ready for an exclusive exploration of Europe's best-kept secrets? Join Live Love Ride on a Portuguese or Spanish cycling holiday, and embark on an unforgettable adventure today!
Get in touch with us at ridewithus@liveloveride.pt or via the form below:
Dear Live Love Ride Family,
As the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible year we've had at Live Love Ride. It's been a joy to share unforgettable cycling adventures with all of you in the stunning landscapes of Portugal and Spain.
We want to take a moment to express our gratitude for being a part of our cycling community. Whether you've explored the picturesque vineyards of the Douro Valley, conquered the challenging routes of Andalusia, or discovered the hidden gems along the Algarve coast, your enthusiasm and love for cycling have made each journey truly special.
As we bid farewell to 2023, we're excited to share a sneak peek into what's coming in the New Year. Our team has been hard at work curating new routes, enhancing our services, and crafting unique experiences to make your next cycling holiday even more memorable.
🚴♂️ New E-Road Bike Fleet: Unleash the Power of Pedals! ⚡️🚴♀️ Get ready to experience cycling in a whole new way! We're thrilled to introduce our brand-new E-Road Bike Fleet, bringing a surge of power to your pedaling. Conquer hills with ease and extend your adventures further as you explore the breathtaking landscapes of Portugal and Spain. Our commitment to providing cutting-edge cycling experiences just got electrified - more news soon!
🌄 New Cycling Retreat Tours: Unwind in Two-Wheeled Paradise! 🌺🚴♂️ Get ready for an immersive escape with our new Cycling Retreat Tours in 2024! Experience the magic of Douro, Sintra, Algarve, Girona, and Mallorca with these three to four-day bike tours, all based from the same charm hotel.
No hassle with transfers between hotels – just pure cycling bliss, exploring the unique beauty of each region. Stay in the same comfortable retreat every night, creating a deeper connection with the surroundings. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind, savor local cuisine, and share stories with fellow cyclists in a relaxed atmosphere. More on these new tours soon!
🌳 400 Trees Planted Under Our 1Ride=1Tree Pledge: Growing Together! 🌍🌲 In the spirit of giving back to the environment we love to explore, we are excited to share that, with your support, Live Love Ride has planted 400 trees as part of our 1Ride=1Tree pledge. Your cycling adventures not only create memories but also contribute to a greener planet. Thank you for joining us in this eco-friendly initiative, and let's continue to pedal for a sustainable future.
🌟 Early Bird Special: 5% Discount on 2024 Group Tours! 🚵♀️🎊 We believe the best adventures are the ones you look forward to, and what better way to kickstart your cycling dreams than with an exclusive offer? Book any of our 2024 group tours by the end of 2023, and enjoy a fantastic 5% discount! Simply use the discount code "liveloveride" to book your group tour to apply - check our tour calendar here.
From the entire Live Love Ride team, we wish you a joyful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and, of course, plenty of cycling adventures. May the New Year bring you happiness, good health, and the excitement of exploring new horizons on two wheels.
Thank you for being a part of our cycling family. Here's to more unforgettable journeys together in 2024! If you want to reach out, just contact one of our travel consultants at ridewithus@liveloveride.pt!
Happy Holidays and Pedal On!
It's time to start day dreaming of all the great destinations you can ride in next year. Our 2024 group dates are live and ready to book - secure your spot until the 22/12/2023, and benefit from a limited, 5% discount on all our group tours!*
Check our group tour calendar for 2024 below or click to visit our group tour page
*Terms and conditions of “Book a 2024 group tour and enjoy a 10% discount”
The intervention is part of a recovery plan for an ecologically degraded land in Malveira da Serra, in Parque Natural Sintra Cascais (PNSC), due to the high and dense proliferation of invasive exotic species, promoted by the Civil Forestry Protection of Cascais and by the Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF), with the support from Associação Plantar Uma Árvore. The planting is aimed at recovering endemic vegetation and controlling invasive exotic species, to improve the environmental management of that area and whose management measures to be implemented aim to promote the regeneration of native forests and indigenous species, increase biodiversity and reduce the risk of fire.
Here's the list of trees planted earlier this week:
40 sobreiros ( cork-oaks);
40 carvalhos-cerquinhos (sedge oaks);
50 murtas (myrtles);
30 aroeiras (mastyc trees);
40 carrascos;
35 azinheiras (holm oaks);
15 lódãos
Thank you to all the volunteers that participated! And a big thank you to all the guests that joined our bike tours, helping us give back to nature - we'll keep on cherishing our ecosystem as much as we can, so we can continue to appreciate it's beautiful landscapes.
Photos of the event below:
If you are wondering if a group bike tour is the best way to spend a week in a sunny destination, you’ve come to the right place!
Is it better to ride solo or with a group? Is it safer? More social? In this blog post we’ll go through the main benefits of joining a group bike tour and help you figure out if that fits your profile as a cyclist and your wishes as a visitor eager to explore a new region.
First of all, what do we mean by “group bike tour”?
A lot of opportunities to take group pictures!
Live Love Ride’s group bike tours are prescheduled guided tours which any cyclist can join (click here to check our see our group tour calendar ). Simply choose the date that best suits your needs and join the group that'll be departing then! This is a great option if you happen to be a cyclist traveling solo or in a small group. We assure all prescheduled group tours are actually conducted regardless of the number of people who sign up ( depending on availability).
The fact that all group tours are guided is the first benefit we can point out: you'll permanently have a local guide sharing his/her extensive knowledge and deep love for the region, as well as supporting you and making sure no one misses out on the best lookout points for a photo - or that easy to miss coffee stop where you’ll get to replenish your energy stores with that particularly delicious local pastry.
Here are some of the most reported advantages of joining a group bike tour, as often listed by our guests:
During a week-long group bike tour you’ll meet new people not only from all walks of life but also of a wide range of ages and cycling abilities. You’ll be riding with a group of people who have, at least, one thing in common: their love for cycling! This will help you feel integrated from minute one and conversations will start spontaneously. As your social circle increases, you’ll probably return home with a new set of real life friends!
Social gatherings won't happen on the bike only: dinners, lunches and experiences are shared as well.
Besides, cycling is always less strenuous and more fun when shared. While you may feel close to exhaustion when riding alone, riding with a group will uplift you - and you may well end up laughing through those last miles of the day! Here we must mention our guides tend to have a joke up their sleeves to help ease out the perceived effort on some harder climbs.
With all routes designed in detail and checked out in advance, the tried and tested daily programmes and all the support specifically provided to groups (sag wagon, mechanical expert and guides), Live Love Ride’s open group tours normally flow undisrupted and provide unforgettable experiences of cycling comradery in the beautiful settings we operate.
If you feel like giving that "planner’s mind" of yours some rest, then a bike group tour run by Live Love Ride is indeed a wonderful option.
Live Love Ride’s knowledge of tour routes is detailed in part due to the frequency we cycle those same routes. This means that we tend to include only the safer, less travelled roads in our cycling routes, selecting the ones best suited for groups.
In addition, when riding with a group, you will be less likely to get temporarily lost along the way - and you’ll be able to focus your attention on the beautiful passing sights instead of a small GPS screen on your handlebar!
Joining a Live Love Ride group bike tour is an amazing opportunity to meet new people, develop friendships, delve deeper into the local culture, explore new cycling routes in a relaxed manner and, most importantly, create shared long-lasting memories with like-minded people!
In case our group bike tour open dates don’t fit your calendar or if you plan on cycling with your own group of friends, a private tour can also be arranged on the date of your preference - provided your group has a minimum of 4. Private tours can include guides or be organized for you in the self-guided format, a more independent way of travelling.
Need help? Get in touch with our travel consultants in the form below:
Bike Touring is a lot of fun, but it doesn't all have to be about cycling. Many bike tourers have taken to the roads to experience more than just the wind in their hair and go on a gastronomy tour. What better way to experience a country than to ride, eat, and drink your way through it? In this article, we'll tell you about some amazing European destinations for a cycling wine tour and what makes them so special.
Discovering the roots of the world's first demarcated wine region - Douro valley, Portugal
We believe nothing goes down better after a long day of cycling than a glass of wine. A wine region isn't just a place for wine tastings. It's also a great place for cycling trips. They are typically excellent places to cycle as traffic-free roads and beautiful scenery often surrounds them.
Food and drink always tastes better after a bike ride, and pairing some of the best wine regions with that taste appreciation is an excellent way to get the most out of local wine tastings. When you go to places, it's about embracing what a destination has to offer and when in wine country, you drink great wine.
It's important to know what you're looking for when it comes to the right destination for your bike tour in Europe. Here's what we believe sets the destination above others.
Portugal is known for not just great cycling, but it is also famous for making a pretty special wine. The Douro River National Park is an incredible place to visit. Being a UNESCO world heritage site, it's protected because of its history and its beauty. The region starts in the historic city of Porto, which is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It's surrounded by medieval villages, which you will be lucky enough to cycle through.
The region is famous for Port wine. It's a divine sweet taste and is typically served as a dessert wine. They have been refining the grapes for several century, and many people travel to the region to taste the incredible drink. The best way to enjoy the region is by watching the Rabelo boats deliver the wine to Porto, so that they can age in win barrels, while enjoying the famous local smoked meats after a long day of cycling. If you're looking for a great tour in the region, check out the link below.
Spain's wine regions are some of the most incredible in the world. The Basque Country is well sort after place for cycling and enjoying the local wines. As far as riding goes, you have quiet, smooth roads with so much history to enjoy. In the Bilbao region of Spain, you don't just get to enjoy the mountains, but you also get the privilege of being next to the coast as well. The cycling is great and works for all abilities. If you're fond of a climb or two, this is a great region to explore.
When it comes to food and wine here, you are spoilt for choice. You have over 500 wineries to choose from and multiple options as far as a wine museum tour goes. It's internationally known for its high quality wine which you have a huge variety to choose from. Famous wines such as La Rioja Alta, Viña Ardanza Reserva and Bodegas Corral, Los Corrales de Moncalvillo Maturana Tinta. You will not be disappointed with the taste of this region and many people regularly return. If you're looking for a great tour, check out the link below.
We're back in Portugal, but this time we're heading towards Lisbon. Alentejo is full of rich millennial history, culture, great cycling, and phenomenal wines. Cycling here is an incredible experience. The smooth rolling hills, the incredible views as you go from whitewashed villages to medieval castles. Cycling in Portugal is still an untouched gem, and they are seeing more and more cyclists every year. The roads are traffic free, and the atmosphere is great as cycling is the thing to do here.
There's only one thing in Alentejo that matches the quality of the cycling and that is the food and drink. The local cuisine is incredible and paired with the great wine tasting, it's the perfect way to enjoy Portugal. Many incredible wines come out of this region. The one you must taste is the white Quinta do Carmo. The best way to enjoy this region is by cycling through it and experiencing some of the local vineyards tours. Visiting a cellar has never been so appealing. If you're looking for a great tour, check out the link below.
The Loire Valley is a very popular region for not just wine lovers but also cyclists. It has one of the most incredible routes called the La Loire à vélo. This 900km route runs alongside the Loire Valley River, passes through medieval towns and villages, and boosts some of the most incredible Chateaus in the world, such as Château de Chambord, which was used in the Beauty and the Beast film. The cycle route is quiet, beautiful, and perfect for all abilities to use.
Then we come to the wine and food. All you will find in the Loire Valley is amazing local produce and excellent wines. The Loire Valley is known for its incredible Sauvignon Blanc, which is one of the most popular white wines in the world. The region is also known for incredible food, such as the Beurre Blanc paired with fresh fish. The best way to enjoy this region is to hop from town to town, enjoying visiting chateaus and wineries.
In the hills of Tuscany, you will find Chianti. Not far from Florence this region is a perfect way to get miles in and enjoy some great food and wine. As far as wine regions go, this is one of Italy's best. Cycling is great here, and although a fairly hilly place, the incredible views, quiet roads, and fast downhills make up for the hard work. There's a huge amount of roads to choose from, and the locals appreciate cyclists. Many riders flock here for the famous Giro de Italia stage, which is very popular for road cyclists.
When you have cycling to do, you require extra calories, and what better way to get them in than Italian food? The region has incredible pizza, pasta, and salads which will excite your taste buds, alongside some amazing wines such as the 2017 Chianti Classico Annata, a medium bodied wine with incredible aromas of cherry and currant. Although many people think of Rome when they consider Italy, the Tuscany region has much more to offer, with over 300 estates where wine is produced and a huge amount of variety of local food on offer.
When cycling in a wine region, it's easy to get it wrong and not make the most out of your holidays to make the most out of it, here are our top tips.
It's easy to miss out on great places when exploring a region without knowing what to look for. Investing in a guide or even getting some information goes a long way to ensure you see everything that makes a place special.
We recommend drinking in moderation. Having too much Pinot Noir feels like a good idea at the time, but it's easy to regret it the next day when not feeling too well. Wine always tastes best in small doses.
Before a wine region cycling tour, many people tend to worry about their fitness and if they will be able to handle the routes. You shouldn't. We highly recommend if you are unsure to hire an electric bike. You don't have to use the assistance, but it's there in case you need it.
Pairing a wine tasting holiday with a cycling tour is an excellent way not just to enjoy a beautiful region but also to appreciate the smell and taste of a region. What makes it even better is getting some exercise and earning your treats. The combination is becoming very popular recently, and we highly recommend it to anyone.
Want to join one of our bike tours? Contact us on of the form below:
One of the best ways to explore a holiday destination is by bicycle. You get to enjoy it at your own pace, get all those hidden gems you might miss on the typical tourist circuit, and you get to experience all the culture firsthand.
When it comes to picking the right bike tour for you, it can be challenging as there's a lot to think about. In this article, we hope to list all the choices you should consider when picking a bike tour - so you can get the best experience possible.
Bike tour in Mallorca - a favourite among cycling enthusiasts
The first thing you need to think about is the destination. Not all bike touring holidays are the same. What is it you want out of your holiday? Getting the destination right will go a long way to keeping you entertained on and off the bike. Here are some ideas of what people typically look for in a bike touring destination:
Road cycling in Portugal - Serra da Estrela Natural park
A great way to embrace a culture and enjoy a country is to go and visit local cultural and heritage sites. It's great because cycling to them typically avoids traffic and also makes it exciting going from site to site, unsure of what to expect in between. A great example is our Portuguese Historical Villages and Estrela National Park Tour.
Cycling in wine country is a great way to go if you're looking for a guilt-free holiday and want to taste a region. Typically, these destinations are very low traffic, the locals love guests, the food is incredible, and after you are done cycling, you get to taste local wines which feel earnt after a day out on the bike. An example is our bike tour of Andalucia Villages and Jerez Wine Country in Spain.
What better way to get to a beach than by bike? In many countries such as Spain and Portugal, some places are very difficult to get to by walking or by car. Using a bike and picking the right beach bike tour is an amazing way to access secluded beaches that most people can't get to. Our tour of Portugal's Silver Coast is a great way to find some hidden tanning spots.
For some of us, nothing beats a good climb. Heading to the mountains for a bike tour gives you the work of the incline, incredible views at the top, and a very exciting descent. What's not to like? An amazing destination for a climbing bike tour is Mallorca which has incredible climbs such as the Sa Calobra. Check out our Mallorca Bike Tour.
When looking for the right bike tour, it's also important to consider if you want to be on or off-road. They are very different and will give a totally different experience from one another.
Road biking is very popular, and many people go away to experience the smooth glass roads of places like Spain or Portugal. The work is much easier, and you will be chewing through the miles much quicker. You will typically share the road with cars and other vehicles, but much less skill is involved than mountain biking. The Portugal North to South tour is one of the best tours we offer, which is all on the road. It's great if you love road biking, and you get to see how Portugal varies across many of its different regions.
If you like riding off-road and are fond of a gravel bikes or a mountain bike, then an off-road tour could be perfect for you. The miles do come harder, and the work is more technical compared to road biking, but you can enjoy traffic-free riding and really get into nature. The Camino de Santiago French Tour is an excellent off-road tour we offer. It offers a lot of mixed terrains, and no mile is like one another.
When picking a bike tour, it's also important to make sure that you pick a tour that suits your ability. If you pick a bike tour that isn't right for you, then you will find yourself having a really tough time, and that's not what you want out of a holiday. When looking at a bike tour, the first thing you will want to look at is the profile of the tour. You are going to want to think about distance, elevation, and terrain.
When looking at distance, it's important to look at the number of miles you need to cover on each of the days. We recommend that if you haven't ridden the distances required before, train ready for the tour or pick something shorter. We offer lots of different rides and even some long-distance bike tour options.
Elevation or climbing is how hilly the ride is going to be. You might have a bike tour where you have a lot of rolling hills, or maybe you might have a tour with one or two big climbs. You are going to want to take a note of this figure as some rides can be short but very hilly, actually making them much harder work.
While looking at distance and elevation, it's important also to consider terrain. Road miles are much easier than off-road miles, and this can add to the level of ability that you might need for certain bike tours. We also recommend getting a little bit of experience riding off-road before going on an off-road tour.
It is worth noting that many people will go for tours that are out of their fitness level but use an electric touring bike instead. This makes the work much easier, and it means you can ride with stronger groups without the worry of holding anyone up. All of Live Love Ride's bike tours are e-bike ready.
Touring bikes come in all shapes and sizes. You get road bikes, hybrid bikes, and even mountain bikes. Depending on which tour you choose, you will get equipped with the right bike for the job. Road Bikes for the road, hybrids for mixed terrain or city riding, and mountain bikes for off-road. They will be equipped for the route intended.
It's worth considering what kind of bike you like riding before picking a tour. If you are not a fan of a racing bike with skinny tires, you might want to go for a tour where you can ride mountain or hybrid bikes instead, as they have a more upright riding position. You also have the option of upgrading to an electric bike if you want to as well. Most touring bikes are not electric so having the option with us is excellent.
Many touring bikes are just general do it all bikes, but ours are tailored to the routes. We believe it's not just about any bike, and bicycle touring should be done on the bike you need for the ride you're undertaking. Our bikes feature high-end components and parts such as hydraulic disc brakes for mountain bikes not your typical mechanical disc brakes or rim brakes and modern high-level Shimano group sets on road bikes. We use bikes which a typically bike shop would sell.
It's important to think about the level of the tour you want and if you would like a guide with you. Having a guide means they will be with you every step of the way from helping guide you on the correct route, telling you about the region you're in, and taking you to the best places for food and water. You also get a support vehicle and all the necessary water and snacks to keep you well fuelled - with the van, the guide can also shorten or increase the daily mileage, adapting it to your preference, and drive you to their favorite spots, restaurants and experiences mid tour. On our "premium guided" tours, you'll have access to an additional guide riding along with the group too, improving the service level throughout.
Opting for a self-guided tour means you will be given a Garmin GPS and access to the Live Love Ride app to navigate by yourself. Also, you'll require some basic mechanical knowledge, so you can change flat tires, for instance. However, even in our self-guided tours, all passenger transfers and daily luggage transfer from hotel to hotel are included, so you won't have to carry your luggage throughout the tour.
It comes down to what kind of traveler you are and what you want from your bike tour. We do recommend a guide although it costs a little more - it makes the experience very special. However, you can choose to join all our multi-day tours as either self-guided or guided tours - your tour, your choice.
When considering a bike tour, it's vital to pick the correct one for you so you can get the best experience possible. We highly recommend going for a tour that suits you in destination, the riding you want to do, and also your ability. We also highly recommend using a guide as it will make the experience unforgettable and the local knowledge you learn is incredible.
Want to join one of our bike tours? Contact us on of the form below:
