Great Explorations

French Pastries . When our minds turn to french pastry, it's hard to think of anything else. Pains au chocolat, croissants, baguettes . ...madeleines, macarons, soufflés ... . ...éclairs, crèmes brûlées, tartes tatins . Oops! We may be getting too carried away, what’s your favourite French pastry? . . . #frenchpastries #pastries #france #travelfoodies #bikingtrips #hikingtrips #guided #activevacation #greatexplorations #exploreyourworld See more

Italian Pasta . When we think of Italy, we think of pasta . And for good reason! As the homeland of pasta, Italy produces around 3.3 million tons of it each year, in approximately 350 different shapes, with the average Italian eating 60 pounds per year ! Mama mia! . Oh, and one more pasta fact for you: a singular piece of spaghetti is called a spaghetto ... . . . #handmadepasta #pasta #italy #travelfoodies #bikingtrips #hikingtrips #guided #activevacation #greatexplorations #exploreyourworld See more

Newsletter . Once in a while, we send out a newsletter to share news about upcoming trips or to tell you more about brand new trips we've freshly designed! . Interested in guided active adventures? Sign up for the Great Explorations' newsletter here: https://zcu.io/0gwx ... . . . #newsletter #bikingtrips #hikingtrips #guided #activevacation #greatexplorations #exploreyourworld See more

Thank you for your support! . We just wanted to say a big Thank You to all of you for following us. . A special thanks to those who have emailed or called during these unprecedented times. We are grateful and can't wait to get you back on the roads! ... . . . #thankyou #bikingtrips #hikingtrips #guided #activevacation #greatexplorations #exploreyourworld See more

Eastern Townships . For our North American travellers who’d prefer to stick closer to home , for the time being, our trip to the Eastern Townships in Quebec is well worth checking out ! . Don't just take it from us... read what our client had to say about their trip to the Eastern Townships ... . "Thank you so much for organizing such an awesome trip.and for getting me an e-bike. Without the e-bike, I don’t think that I would have been able to do the ride with my injury so the extra effort you made was greatly appreciated! This was my first guided cycling trip and I enjoyed everything about it. The routes, the B & B’s, the restaurant choices and Jean as a guide. His enthusiasm and knowledge for the area truly made the experience so much better than if we had done a self-guided trip. I have never been to Quebec before and now I have a much greater appreciation for both the beauty and the culture of the Province. Once again thank you for a truly wonderful experience. I will definitely be booking any further trips through your company!" -Heather A. Calgary, AB . . . . #biking #hiking #quebec #easterntownships #activevacation #guidedtrips #activetravel #travel #exploreyourworld #greatexplorations See more

Distinctive Hotels . As with everything else on our tours, you can trust all our accommodations choices to provide you with the perfect complement to your trip . From charming inns to luxury chateaux and unique hotels . . Don't just take it from us... read what our client had to say about their trip to Vietnam ... . "Really outstanding, unforgettable experience. Probably the best trip I’ve ever taken. Amenities were first rate and the country itself was incredible. ALL hotelsincluding those on the extensionwere of the highest quality. Loved the cooking class in Hoi An. Never had so much support on a ride. What a great group of people!" -James S. - Berkeley, CA . . . . #biking #hiking #multisport #activevacation #guidedtrips #activetravel #travel #exploreyourworld #greatexplorations See more

Extras . Cooking courses , local guided walking tours, wine tasting with a sommelier, dining experiences that are memorable, musical performances On our trips, all of the surprises are good ones ! . Don't just take it from us... read what our client had to say about their trip to Tuscany ... . "The trip exceeded my expectations on all levels. The location, hotels, food, extra activities all of this made for an amazing package and a great value. The guides were exceptional extremely knowledgeable about the area, thoughtful, helpful and so much fun to be with!" Lisa D. - Golden Valley, MN . . . #biking #hiking #multisport #activevacation #guidedtrips #activetravel #travel #exploreyourworld #greatexplorations See more

Never Sub-Contracted . We operate all of our own trips . We design our routes, own our bikes , have our own guides. You’ll never deal with the ‘middle man’ at Great Explorations which means everything will be as it appears . . Don't just take it from us... read what our client had to say about their trip to the Rockies ... . "What an ideal route for cycling! Our guides were a delight to travel with. They always delivered exactly what we needed trail insights, bike repairs, fantastic snacks and lunch, support during the ride, fun aprés excursions, good stories and friendship. They were always confident, knowledgeable and relaxed, so our group could just focus and cycling and having fun. Nice side excursions to waterfalls and canyons. Appreciated the van rides to special sights after cycling finished. About bikes: nice carbon frame, good ride quality and gearing for hills." - Susanne N. - Wilmette, IL . . . . #biking #hiking #multisport #activevacation #guidedtrips #activetravel #travel #exploreyourworld #greatexplorations See more

Bicycles & Equipment . We have invested a significant amount of time and money to ensure you have the best bicycle for your trip. Our relationship with Cannondale has allowed us to offer top-of-the-line bikes . . Don't just take it from us... read what our client had to say about their bikes on their trip from Prague to Vienna ... . "Wonderful cycling routes just beautiful riding through farms, forests and villages. The new ‘Ride with GPS’ option is an excellent alternative and worked very well. Excellent solution. Bikes were in excellent condition and suitable for riders of every level. Gearing suitable for the terrain. Absolutely no need to bring your own bike. We enjoyed the guides and the biking routes. Truly excellent rides that were obviously planned and researched in detail by locals. We have ridden with you several times and have the highest confidence in your trips, guides, and routes/accommodations/meals." - Bill K. - Haskell, NJ . . . . #biking #hiking #multisport #activevacation #guidedtrips #activetravel #travel #exploreyourworld #greatexplorations See more

Feature week: Canada . Nova Scotia - "The Mi'kmaq (pronounce meeg maw) are the founding people of Nova Scotia and remain the predominant indigenous group in this province." . "Before John Cabot arrived here in 1497, the Mi'kmaq people occupied what we now know as Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island + parts of Newfoundland." ... . This province is an Atlantic joy, it combines European hospitality & Canadian natural wonders. Prepare for peaceful coves, lighthouses, wild + rugged headlands + authentic fishing villages. . We offer two 7 day biking tours, one takes you along the magical South Shore from Halifax to Lunenburg, the other starts in Chester and ends in Wolfville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #novascotia #ohcanada #canada_photolovers #canadagram #canadalove #canadaproud #canadavacations #canadatrip #canadaviews #canadagram #canadalove #canadalife #canada_gram #canadaday #canada #igcanada #beautifulcanada #canada_true #canadatravel #canadaproud #canadaparadise #mycanadianphotos #canadaeh #canada_pics #canada150 #canadaswonderful #exploremore #outdoorisfree #biketravel @canada @canadasworld @imagesofcanada @paradise.canada @exporecanada See more

Riding safely- tips: . 1) Become familiar with riding a loaded bike. Start to add some weight + packed panniers to your local rides to get used to the feeling + difference in riding a heavier bike. . 2) When you look behind you, there can be a tendency for the bike to veer to the side you turn your head. Practice until the bike remains straight as you look behind. Some people add a mirror to help see behind them. ... . 3) Use your gears. Finding a brisk, steady cadence + using the appropriate gears is important - to avoid knee pain, a smoother ride + overall is better for the health of your bike. Ensure your saddle is not too high or too low - your leg should be straight (but not locked) when you have the pedal at the six o'clock position + still maintain contact with the pedal. . 4) Good braking practice: A rule of thumb is to brake before you have to. Gradual pressure on the brakes, pumping (press - release). Avoid slamming or keeping the brakes held for longer than a few seconds at a time. A loaded bike will accelerate faster + is easier to rattle from rocks or large debris on the road - so take caution. . 5) Vehicles (especially larger ones) are always a danger to cyclists. Always be aware of oncoming + overtaking traffic. Be alert + ready to leave the road if needed. Wear a properly fitting helmet, wear reflective gear (even during the day). Bring + use good quality + bright bike lights. Bring extra batteries. Watch for slippery surfaces on roads, be aware that bright sunshine can hinder your visibility to drivers. . 6) Stay alert, be prepared + ride safely + happily. Cycle touring is amazing! Just like anything else, some preparation + extra precaution will help make it as enjoyable as it can be. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #roadbike #roadcycling #cyclistsofinstagram #roadbike #cyclingphotos #cyclingpassion #igerscycling #biketravel #lovebikes #biketouring #bicycletouring #ilovemybike #biketrip #soloride #biketime #bikerider #cyclingtours #goneriding #pedaljourneys #bikepic #lovebikes #cyclistsofinstagram #lovebikes #bikesafety #cyclingsafety @road._.cycling @biketouring @cyclingtips @bikewander @focusbikes @bike._.travel See more

Many of us have been riding solo more often, recently. . Perhaps these past few months have inspired you to take on that solo riding trip? . Even if you don't feel ready to take on a long-distance/multi-day tour yet - there are many ways you can prepare for the day when you will. ... . Plan a route, somewhere you have not cycled before. Prepare as if heading away for a few days. Pack your panniers to get used to riding with a full load. . Check your bike - is it lubed, cleaned, are the brakes in order? Pack spare tubes, bike pump, tire levers. Make sure you have experience using all your tools. . Practice changing a tire before you leave. . Bring a printed map, as well as any digital maps you have saved. Prepare for not having phone/internet service. . Leave a map + planned route at home + let family/friends know your plan. . Food + water: Snacks, lunch, will there be somewhere on your route to refill your water? Pack a water filtration system (drops or tabs are good, or a filter bottle). . First aid kit - ensure it is restocked regularly + any medication are in date. Make a note of hospitals, doctors etc along your route. . What else do you do to prepare for a long(er) bike trip? Have you picked up any new tips + tricks recently? . . . . . . . . . . . . #cycling #cyclinglife #cyclist #roadbike #cyclistofinstagram #cyclingphotos #roadbike #cyclingpassion #roadslikethese #biketravel #lovebikes #biketouring #bicycletouring #biketrip #travelbike #bikepassion #cycletouring #ilovemybike #lovebikes #worldbybike #bikepic #pedaljourneys #bikepacking #womencycling #biketrip #bikeride #soloride #instabikes #biking See more

Feature week: Portugal . Portugal is a predominantly Roman Catholic country. A country + people rich in culture, with a close-knit family ethic, a great love of the arts and a delicious traditional cuisine. . Bacalhau (salted cod), is a traditional Portuguese dish. Other popular seafood options are sardines, octopus, dorado and lobster! Pork is another popular choice, as is goat.... You will have your meat/fish generally served with rice, potatoes + salad. All the good things! Similar to its Spanish neighbour, you will almost always have a bowl of olives to nibble as you wait for your meal. . Cafes are hugely popular (which is great, because we LOVE cafe sitting + people watching). Oh and did we mention pasteis de nata (egg tarts)? - Which were created by monks in the Jeronimos Monastery over 300 years ago, they were selling them to generate income to support the monastery. . For more tasty foods to try, look up the Franchesinha when in town also! . Port wine is a well-known wine produced in farms in the Duoro Wine Region. . Food-related festivals are always happening in towns + villages, so you can expect music + dancing to ensue! . Portugal, we love and miss you! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #portugal #portugaltravel #portugal_lovers #portugal_passion #portugal_wonders #portugal_places #portugaligers #portugalaliver #portugalguide #portugal_vision #portugal_gems #portugalpassion #portugalemfotos #portugalplaces #portugaltrip #visitportugal #portugalgems #igersportugal #travelingportugal #algarveportugal #wonderlustportugal #raw_portugal #visitportugal #unlimitedportugal #topportugalphoto #portugal_focuson See more

Feature week: Portugal . Our guided Alentejo biking trip starts in the old walled town of Evora, a UNESCO world heritage site. . This timeless city is steeped in Roman & medieval heritage. It was the chosen site for Portugal's kings to call home in the 1400s. ... . Here you can find Portugal's second-oldest university, founded in the 1500s. . The Evora Cathedral built using pink granite, sits picturesquely at the top of Evora. . The remains of Evora's Roman Temple can be seen at the city's highest point. This Corinthian temple was built in the 1st century! (As seen in the photo!) . You can also check out some of the 20,000 items homed in the Evora city museum to learn about the city's history. . The historic center of Evora is a World Heritage Site + it is a fabulous way to pass an afternoon - walking aimlessly through the streets, soaking it all up, taking photos and seeing what there is to discover around the corner. . Day 1 of all our Alentejo bike tours begins in Evora. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . @portugal.focus.on @portugal.vacations @super_portugal @topportugalphoto @unlimitedportugal @visitportugal @raw_portugal @wonderlust.portugal #portugal_focuson #super_portugal #portugal #topportugalphoto #unlimitedportugal #visitportugal #raw_portugal #wonderlustportugal #portugal #portugaltravel #portugaltrip #wonderlustportugal #portugalonthetop #travelbybike #biketravel #portugaltrip #portugalpassion #portugaligers #portugal_wonders #portugal_places #portugal_visiton #portugal_lovers #portugalia #portugal_es_lindo #portugal_gems See more

Feature week: France . Alsace - This Northeastern region of France, borders with Germany and Switzerland. . You will have dedicated bike paths along the Bruche canal, a longer option with a climb to Mont St. Odile, a ride through vineyards along the edge of the Northern Vosges Regional National Park. Riding into Colmar, one of the most beautiful cities in all of France rounds off this incredible trip. ... . Stay and visit local villages to taste some of their delicious food (with plenty of Michelin starred restaurants to be found). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #visitalsace @alsace @francefr @visitlafrance @francetourisme @super_france #visitfrance #francesinsta #francia #igersfrance #france #francestyle #exclusive_france #hellofrance #ilovefrance #france_photolovers #lafrance #france_focus_on #super_france #francetravel #francesinsta #france4dreams #france_greatshots #cntraveler #traveltheworld #bbctravel #travelawesome #toeuropephoto #huffposttravel #cnntravel #iamtraveler See more

Feature week: France . Dordogne is an extremely popular destination for our travelers. The Dordogne river is often considered the most beautiful river in France. . We first started coming here for bike tours in the early 1980s, the quiet country roads, beautiful scenery, castles at every turn + the prehistoric caves, pilgrimage site of Rocamadour showed us that it is a truly exceptional place to tour. ... . It is a fairly equal balance between those who take our hiking + biking tours, if you can't choose between the two, we also offer a 10-day multi-sport trip in this region which includes biking, hiking and canoeing. . We take in Rocamadour, Vitrac, Sarlat, Les Eyzies de Tayac, Lascaux, Monpzier + Gourdon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . #dordogne #france #igersfrance #francia #francesinsta #francesa #francetourisme #francesas #francemylove #francephoto #hellofrance #lafrance #france_focus_on #super_france #ilovefrance #france_greatshots #europe #francia #francesinsta #visitfrance @amazing.france @hello_france @visitlafrance @franceobviously @super_france @europestyle_france @bestfrancepics #france4dreams #francecartepostale #france2 @francefr #discoverearth See more

The latter half of our Slovenia & Italy tour takes you across the border to Italy . From Bovec or Kobarid you will ride south towards Italy. It is a short ride to reach Cividale, plus some additional rides to enjoy - along quiet, vineyard lined roads. . You may also take a local guided walk of the beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage city of Cividale. A picturesque town and a wonderful place to visit as it is not overrun by tourists.... . Your last day exploring the Italian section of this trip, still in Friuli has some options - from flat to hilly, depending on your riding desire (or how your legs feel!). . We truly love this tour and have designed several options to cater for all cycling levels, while still ensuring you experience all the magic this trip has to offer. . We will be back again soon (we hope)! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #slovenia #ifeelslovenia #slovenija #igslovenia #slovenia #feelslovenia #sloveniatravel #exploringslovenia #geoslo @slovenia_lovers @slovenians_travel @slovenia @igslovenia @feelslovenia @loveslovenia @slovenia_outdoors @luxuryslovenia #luxuryslovenia #beautifulmomentsinlife #europetravel #europe_vacations #traveltheworld #europe_pics #traveladdict #exploreeurope #travelpic #visiteurope #eurotravel #traveladdict #traveladdicted #traveleverywhere #traveltheglobe See more

Slovenia + Italy - a wonderful pairing for an exhilarating bike tour . Slovenia is just incredible + somewhere that has been on our radar for a long time but is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination. . It couldn't be more perfect for cycling, a small country with quiet roads & dramatic landscapes. The magic of Bled which offers us its sparkling turquoise lake, island monastery, cycling along dedicated bike paths that wind + weave through rural countryside.... . Ride over the Vrsic pass, down into Soca valley + past the Soca river into Italy. We take in Friuli, Cividale, +/or Cormons on the Italian side. Vineyards, castles, heritage cities, + the always appealing charm + allure of Italian riding. . We love trips that take you from one country to the next, that slower pace of travel that lets you fully absorb + notice the subtle/or not so subtle changes + transitions when moving between places/counties - is what bike touring is all about. . Difficulty level: Slovenia is moderately hilly with options to challenge yourself on two mountain passes. the Italian part of this trip is less hilly. . . . . . . . . . . . @feelslovenia @slovenia_lovers @igslovenia @loveslovenia @slovenia #slovenia #slovenija #feelslovenia #loveslovenia #slovenia #igslovenia #exploringslovenia #biketravel #outdoorsisfree #naturetherapy #sloveniatravel #lepoteslovenije #outdoortherapy #staywild #outdoorslover #getoutsidemore #natureheals #getoutsidemore #walkinnature #appreciatenature #exploringnature #outdoorlovers #outside See more

Piedmont . The slow food movement, red wine, the backdrop of the Italian Alps, + bordering Switzerland + France. Quiet roads + moderate hills make this an ideal destination for all cycling levels. .... We offer a 7 day guided biking trip in the region. . Starting in Monterotondo and travelling through Acqui Terme, Neive, and finally ending in La Morra. Experience small local villages, Roman remains of medieval castles + of course, superb cuisine + wine tasting options. . Delight in the splendour of Acqui Terme, a spa town built over natural hot springs by the Romans. . Take in the mystery of an underground Cathedral cellar, dine at a medieval castle, ride by hillside vineyards where world-famous wine has been produced for 200 years. This is the magic of Italy (we miss you!!!), . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #ig_piedmonte #piemonteturismo #piedmont #yallerspiemonte #igpiemonte #piedmonte_illife #yallerslombardia #igerslombardia #yallersitalia #italytravel #madeinitaly #roadcycling #biketravel #travelbybike #bicycletouring #biketrip #biketravel #ilovemybike #cyclingpassion #pedaljourneys #bikepic #goneriding #instabikes #biketrips #cyclelife #wymtm #wymta #bicycletouring #igerscycling #piedmonte_super_pics @piemonte_super_pics @igers_piemonte @visit_piemonte @yallerspiemonte @ig_piemonte See more

Tuscany - A dream spot for most of our guests. . A must-ride destination if you want epic scenery, incredible biking routes, heritage, culture + magnificent food + wine. . We offer 8 day guided tours in this region, with the options of biking, hiking or yoga & biking.... . Destinations we visit include Siena, Castellina in Chianti, Sovicille, Asciano, Pienza, Montepulciano, Montalcino. Our hiking tour takes in Buonconvento + Rocca d'Orcia in additon to many of the biking towns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . #italy #italia #madeinitaly #toscana #italytrip #italyiloveyou #italygram #italytravel #yallersitalia #italyturism #italylovers #biketravel #lucurytravel #explorelater #wewilltravelagain #italian #italyinoneshot #italy_hidden_gems #italytravel #igersitalia #instatuscany #visittuscany #mytuscany #thetuscantimes #hiddentuscany @The Tuscan Times @Visit Tuscany @Tuscany Buzz #imagesoftuscany @Discover Tuscany @imagesoftuscany

Check out our sister company Randonnee Tours' Ireland Hiking Trips - Our Ireland biking tour is the popular choice, but Randonnée Tours' hiking trips are also a dream + loved by many. . You can choose 8 - 10 days. 8 days is enough for a deep glimpse into Irish beauty but if you can, we also suggest the 10 days. . Walking along the wild & rugged west coast is a hiker's dream + an almost spiritual experience. There is something indescribable about this island + connecting... with the raw + wild nature here (+ sometimes braving the elements ) . Walkers start in Ennis, a delightful county Clare village, then set off to visit Doolin + the cliffs of Moher (8km or 13km with 125/340m of elevation). . Day 3 takes you along the Burren Way to Ballyvaughan, an absolute beauty of a village + lunch at Monks pub here is a must. . The 10-day tour also brings you to the Burren National Park. . You will ferry across to the Aran Islands. You can hike to Dun Aengus on Inishmore, to see the incredible ancient ring fort, dating back to 500 B.C, sitting on a cliff edge 200 feet above the wild Atlantic ocean. . The Aran Islands allow you to step back in time + get a glimpse at life in rural Ireland, that has held onto the many traditions + older ways of life. . Make your way to Inagh Lake + Leenaun via the Western Way. Your walk to Inagh lake gives you a glimpse of the Twelve Bens, the Maumturks + witnessing a path that has attracted pilgrims since the early Christian period. . A visit to Leenaun will also be a highlight on your trip, you can lunch in the Blackberry cafe, have an outdoor pint at Hamilton's or dine in Leenaun hotel before returning to Lake Inagh Lodge for the night. You will visit Killary Harbour on the 10 day tour. . . . . . . . . . . . #insta_ireland #thisisgalway #rawireland #discoverireland #ig_ireland #irelandgram #ireland_passion #visitireland #thisisireland #exploreireland #wildatlanticway #lovinireland #raw_ireland #galwaytourism #irishroadtrip #discoverireland #daily_ireland @This Is Galway @Wild Atlantic Way @Cliffs of Moher @Visit Galway #discoverIireland #ig_ireland #ireland_passion #thisisireland #exploreireland See more

Oh Ireland . Of all our (amazing!) trips around the world, we really have a soft spot for our Ireland trips (can you tell?!). Our clients who have joined our Ireland guided trips also feel the same, + those who always let us know that Ireland is on their list for future Great Explorations adventures. .... Having cycled all over Ireland, we have found that the west coast is the perfect marriage of spectacular scenery, historical monuments, incredible people + a fascinating culture - and SO much more! . We offer a 7 day guided bike trip. Riding distances range from 40km up to 73km. . This tour is definitely an accessible tour for all riders and we would recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable trip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #bestirelandpics #discoverireland #daily_ireland #galwaytourism #Irishroadtrip #irelandtravel #lovinireland #wildatlanticway #thisisgalway #loveireland # @Ireland Travel @Visit Ireland @This Is Galway @Discover Ireland @Tourism Ireland @instaireland #instaireland #loveireland #ireland #ireland#irelandphotography #ireland#dublinireland #instaireland #irlanda #irish_daily #ireland_travel #irelandtravel #galway #rawireland #ig_ireland #irelandgram #ireland_passion #thisisireland #exploreireland See more