When most people think about bicycle tours, they picture serious cyclists in Lycra tackling steep climbs and racking up big mileage. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to be a “hardcore” rider to enjoy an unforgettable cycling vacation. In fact, many of our guests at Outfitter Bicycle Tours would describe themselves as casual riders, beginners, or even “not really cyclists at all.”
Our tours are designed to be as flexible as you are. Whether you’re excited about getting in the saddle every day or simply looking for a balanced mix of pedaling, wine tasting, and cultural exploration, we’ve got you covered.
Flexible Tours for All Fitness Levels
Not every vacation should feel like training camp. That’s why our itineraries are built with options. Many tours include shorter and longer routes, so you can decide each morning how much you’d like to ride.
- Want to linger in Siena’s piazza or browse the Saturday market in Provence? Take the shorter loop.
- Feeling energized? Extend your ride and add a few more scenic kilometers.
If you’re on one of our guided tours, a support vehicle is nearby. That means you can ride as much or as little as you want, knowing there’s always a lift waiting if you’d prefer to relax off the bike. If you are on one of our self-guided tours, you have your local guide who can assist in finding the correct route for you each day. They are your “local friend” who is a call or WhatsApp message away to help you have the perfect cycling vacation, on and off the bike.
The eBike Advantage
One of the best ways to make cycling enjoyable for everyone is with an eBike. That’s why we offer them at all of our destinations. With just a little extra boost, hills flatten out and long days feel easier, allowing partners of different fitness levels to ride side by side.
Couples often tell us that eBikes completely transform the experience, eliminating worries about holding anyone back or feeling exhausted before lunch. Instead, you’ll both enjoy the ride and arrive at your destination ready to explore.
Beyond the Bike: Activities for Non-Cyclists
Even if riding isn’t your main focus, our tours shine because of what happens off the bike. Each day is an opportunity to soak up local culture, history, and cuisine.
- In Tuscany, guests enjoy rest days in Siena or Montepulciano, perfect for wandering cobblestone streets, wine tasting, or visiting historic landmarks.
- In Provence, rides pass lavender fields and iconic villages like Gordes, with plenty of time for market browsing and wine tasting.
- In Asheville, you can combine cycling with hikes to waterfalls, brewery visits, and even a tour of the Biltmore Estate.
For many of our guests, the bike is simply the way to reach these experiences, not the main event.
The Role of Our Local Guides & Concierges
Traveling in a new country can feel intimidating, but our local concierges are there to make sure you feel supported. They’ll fit your bike, move your luggage from hotel to hotel, and be just a phone call away if you need a restaurant recommendation or mechanical help.
Think of them as a knowledgeable local friend, someone who knows the hidden trattoria in Chianti, the perfect café in Beaune, or the shortcut back to your hotel if the rain starts falling.
Real Comfort: Hotels, Food, and Rest Days
Cycling is just one part of the OBT experience. Our guests also love the comfort that comes with hand-picked hotels (mostly 3- and 4-star boutique properties) that combine charm with convenience.
And because we know that a perfect vacation balances activity and indulgence, our itineraries include rest days in unforgettable places. Spend the afternoon at a spa, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a long lunch in a sunny square; it’s all part of the journey.
Who Our Tours Are Really For
Over the years, we’ve welcomed:
- Couples where one partner rides more than the other.
- Groups of friends with mixed abilities.
- Travelers who want a balance of activity and leisure.
- Food and wine lovers who prefer to cycle at a comfortable pace between villages and vineyards.
If this sounds like you, then you’re in the right place.
You Don’t Need to Be a Pro, Just Love Adventure!
At Outfitter Bicycle Tours, it’s never about performance; it’s about experience. Our tours are designed to help you enjoy the landscapes, flavors, and culture of some of the world’s most beautiful regions, whether you ride 15 miles or 50.
So if you’ve ever thought, “I’m not an avid cyclist, so maybe this isn’t for me,” think again. We’d love to show you that a cycling vacation can be as relaxed, adventurous, or indulgent as you want it to be.
Ready to start planning? Take a look at our cycling tours and let us help you find the perfect trip – Contact Us Today
