We regularly are asked the question “What is a Self Guided tour?”. It is a simple answer, but takes time to explain. An Outfitter Bicycle Self Guided tour is not the typical “self guided” tour. We hold ourselves to a higher standard, with much more “touch” than the typical self guided tour. We take care of everything except pedaling the bike.
The first thing that we say is that we dislike the name “Self Guided” because it does not accurately describe what it is like to be on an OBT self guided tour. (We are thinking of a better name. Please send us your suggestions!)
Self Guided tours are anything but self guided – you are not on your own doing any of the logistical requirements of your vacation. During our Self Guided tours you are given the same great service as on our Guided tours, but without a support vehicle on the road close by. The upside is that Self Guided tours give you the ultimate in flexibility with your cycling vacation. You get to name the tour dates, accommodation level, riding difficulty, and are able to customize nearly every aspect of the tour.
You are able to have what is effectively a private tour. Our Self Guided tours are great for couples, groups of friends, or family vacations. Your group is self-selected, and we can handle any number of guests – from 1 to 15.
Completely customizable! The itineraries on our website are merely suggestions. Use them to create your own vacation. Add a day or three, go in another direction from our route, or stay in one village an extra night. We can work with you to create your dream vacation.
You are taken care of by one of our local guides during the entire tour. We prefer to liken them to a “concierge.” They greet you at the beginning of the tour, ensure that your luggage is transferred from hotel to hotel, and are always a phone call away for assistance. Have a flat? Lost on the road? Need help finding a great place for lunch? Just give them a call and they will assist, and even come out to you on the road if necessary. Additionally, they are also great resources for off-bike activities.
Name your dates! Don’t want to be forced to certain dates for your vacation? Then our Self Guided is the way to go. Tell us your vacation dates and we work around your schedule.
Routing is provided three ways! Just like learning math in school, each of us has certain ways to absorb and translate riding directions and routing. That is why we provide three different methods of routing on our tours: 1) GPS course downloads for your GPS unit, 2) traditional cue sheet, and 3) written prose describing each turn and the surrounding area. These methods are then supported by a road map (in most destinations local-area Michelin Maps are provided). Follow the route the way you prefer, and your chances of getting lost are very small.
What is included:
- Routing 3 ways! (see above)
- Accommodations – we generally target 3 star hotels.
- Generally all breakfasts are included, no lunches are provided, and dinners are included as explained in the itinerary.
- Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel.
- Your personal guide/concierge (see above).
What is not included:
- Transportation to the start location and from the ending location.
- Trip/Travel insurance.
- Bike, but most of our tours have an option for a rental bike.
- Admission to site-seeing venues unless explicitly included.