Biking

This active adventure into the majestic landscapes of Alaska, from Anchorage to Homer, boasts a combination of stunning cycling, glorious hikes in the Alaska Range, cruising in Prince William Sound and sea-kayaking the calm waters around Yukon Island. The scenery, wildlife and wide open spaces will astound. Stay in welcoming lodges with luxurious comforts including Captain Cook’s Lodge in Anchorage, Alyska Resort in Girdwood, Seward Windsong Lodge and Land’s End Resort in Homer. Our guides will connect you with local experts and cultural experiences that will make this journey unforgettable.

“Quite possibly the best mountain biking in North America, if not the world.” Robbin McKinney Considering that Great Explorations beginnings were in the creation and operating of two premier mountain bike events in BC (we donated in excess of $10,000 cash to local trail building and development), we felt the time was right to offer intermediate mountain bike enthusiasts from across North America an epic week of mountain biking in this mecca we call home. Unlike races, which typically include a lot of road to spread out masses of riders, we typically have 8-12 participants max and so have the opportunity to ride significantly more single-track trail. Riding in these numbers also allows us to provide more options. We typically offer a moderate-intermediate ride (mostly blue) and for those that want to challenge themselves on more advanced/technical trail, you will have that opportunity, but the focus will be on all mountain, cross-country, flow trails.

The Okanagan region of British Columbia comprises the wine (and fruit) growing areas surrounding Osoyoos, Oliver, Penticton and Kelowna. With a semi-arid climate, the area boasts long warm summers and eternal sunshine. Numerous fresh-water lakes (including the namesake ‘Okanagan’) compliment the stunning desert topography making it an attractive destination for cycling. Swank and hip accommodations and restaurants with outstanding cuisine await.

Undoubtedly the ‘destination of the moment’, Tofino deserves the many superlatives used to describe this iconic west coast destination. Boasting spectacular kilometers of protected beaches (surfing anyone?), pristine forest including the Unesco Biosphere of Clayoquot Sound and a bohemian vibe, there are now luxurious hotels and fine dining experiences to match. Just down the road is a lesser-known but equally deserving destination, Ucluelet, rich in tradition with its own laid-back coastal culture. By 2021, the spectacular 40km paved bikeway that links these towns will be near completion. With this addition, and the plethora of hiking options, plus some of the best sea-kayaking in the northern hemisphere, could there be a more appealing multi-sport trip in North America?

Piedmont, known for the Slow Food Movement creation, white truffles and some of the most sought-after red wines in Italy, including the robust full bodied Barolo and Barbaresco, are luring travelers who seek its charms (and tastes). With the rugged Italian Alps as a back-drop, the quiet roads of this region with moderate rolling hills provide the ideal terrain for all levels of cyclists. On this trip there are opportunities to experience small villages, Roman remains, medieval castles and superb cuisine as we journey through this delicious region.

Imagine the Mediterranean the way it used to be, in a country that has all the essential elements for the perfect cycling vacation - quiet roads, an abundance of historical sites and wonderful restaurants to enjoy. We’ve created a trip that takes in both Dubrovnik and Split, and the exquisite Dalmatian islands including Mljet, Korkula, Hvar and Brac, each unique and ideal for active travel (and relaxation).

Ride from the buzzy city of Berlin through Potsdam, south through the Spreewald to Saxony and the historic city of Dresden. We’ve long been searching for a trip through Germany and combining the great cities of Berlin and Dresden is a natural. Whether you stay in the luxurious hotels such as Hotel Bayrisches Haus and Hotel Zur Bleiche Resort & Spa or our Classic hotel choices including Bulow Palais in Dresden, we think you’ll love the accommodation choice and excellent dining that this region provides.

The Santa Ynes Valley, Santa Barbara and Ojai are the crown jewels of southern California cycling country. Starting in the charming village of Los Olivos we explore the quiet country roads around Solvang and the Santa Ynez valley, home to hundreds of wineries and stunning landscapes. In Santa Barbara, visit the Old Mission and then cycle along the coast. Surfing anyone? And in Ojai find your chakras and enjoy this haven for yogis and the boho-chic; it’s an uber cool town that happens to also boast great cycling and hiking options. As you might guess, food and wine lovers will find their nirvana in each of these locales as we show you the best that SoCal has to offer.

Ride from the buzzy city of Berlin through Potsdam, south through the Spreewald to Saxony and the historic city of Dresden. We’ve long been searching for a trip through Germany and combining the great cities of Berlin and Dresden is a natural. Whether you stay in the luxurious hotels such as Hotel Bayrisches Haus and Hotel Zur Bleiche Resort & Spa or our Classic hotel choices including Bulow Palais in Dresden, we think you’ll love the accommodation choice and excellent dining that this region provides.

Combine the charm, beauty and history of Lunenburg, Annapolis Royal and Wolfville. Experience East Coast hospitality and celebrate the culture of this fascinating region. Each night, we'll stay in fine inns and dine at the very best restaurants with chefs for whom farm-to-table has always been the norm (lobster anyone)? Did we mention the cycling is superb, whether on county roads through farmland or along the North Atlantic Coast.