We are seasoned cyclists with a passion for mountain roads. We have experience in organising European cycling trips since 2001. BikePlusTours Limited is a travel company registered in England and Wales.
Our trips cater for the serious cyclist who is used to day-long rides and enjoys challenging terrain including strenuous climbs and steep descents. You do not need previous experience of riding in the mountains, but you must be comfortable with your skills as we will often be riding on narrow mountain roads which sometimes have a rough surface and steep drops on the side without guard rails.
You will need a well-maintained road bike with good brakes and tires and low gears for the mountains. We highly recommend that you have your bicycle serviced before the trip by a professional mechanic. Stronger riders may be able to use standard double chainrings, but most riders will appreciate smaller gears as offered by triple chainrings.
It is important that you fit well on your bike and are accustomed to its handling. For that reason we require that you bring your own bicycle along and we do not have rental bikes available.
Our groups usually include men and women between 25 and 60 years old. There is usually a mix of couples and singles. Speed and skill levels vary but all share a passion for long bike rides in scenic surroundings.
Although all riders often leave at around the same time in the mornings, smaller groups are often formed of riders with similar fitness and skill levels. Some riders prefer to ride alone and there is no obligation at all to ride with others.
There will be two ride leaders on bicycles and one in the support van. The support van will wait for all riders at strategic points (bottom and top of major climbs, difficult turns etc.) and will carry water as well as some small snacks and fruit. The van contains all baggage and is not equipped for bike or people transport. However, in case of emergency, up to two bicycles and riders can be given a lift.
We ride rain or shine. It is possible to skip a riding day if we are not changing hotels on the day. On some stages we are able to provide a shorter ride option in case of adverse weather conditions.