Backroads: backroads.com  

I have gone on many trips with Backroads and they have all been great. I like that they have different pricing options (classic or deluxe).   Go now while the tourism business is hurting ... the groups will be smaller and more intimate. I've been on trips with 16-20 people, and that is just too many. - Joan, Cupertino, CA 

... The variety of trips and accommodations are fantastic. Guides are very knowledgeable and all very good bikers, some even ex bike racers. We are planning a seventh trip in 2004 and have taken our 16 year old on all of them. Level of riding is tops with three or more options each day as to length and difficulty. Places to stay are absolutely fabulous, four star Castle's and Chateaux... Paul R, Greenbrae, CA

This was our first bike trip so I don't have anything to compare it too, but it was just awesome! They took care of everything, so it was stress free. There was a good balance of riding, socializing, being on your own, challenges, & discovering local culture. The food was tremendous, the leaders were friendly, knowledgeable, supportive & organized. Our group "clicked" so the social was an added bonus - not to mention all the great wine that was consumed! - Cornelia Hall, Lincoln, RI

My Backroads vacation riding through Tuscany was the best vacation of my life. I have talked to people that say that the lodging choices are sometimes uneven, but my experience was great.  Our tour leaders were really nice and accommodating, too. - Dawn D., New York, NY

I've taken over 70 bike trips all over the world with most of the companies, and Backroads is my favorite -- clearly top of the class. The most important factor is consistent quality -- in the guides especially, but also in hotels, food, rental bikes, van support, local guide briefings, route notes, pleasant surprises. They offer luxury and casual trips; I've taken both and they're the same except that lesser rated but perfectly acceptable hotels are used on the casual trips. The office staff are top notch and have always responded honestly to questions about degree of difficulty. Guests are diverse but always convivial companions -- you could bike with a guy who drives commuter trains (I did) or with a top railroad executive (ditto). Wide range of ages. Always great fun. Plenty of options for the more energetic or van pickups for those who've had enough. Timely baggage pick-up/delivery by contractor so your bags are always in your room when you arrive. Backroads hasn't forgotten anything. A perfect active vacation. - Richard Seltzer, Wynnewood PA

We used your site to find Backroads. Thank you!!! Traveling with Backroads to Costa Rica was a truly first class experience. The hotels, the meals and the leaders were all first class! Thanks again. - J. Bankroft, Albany, CA

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