Backroads: What's New in 2012
Resting—on our laurels or otherwise—isn't something that comes easy to us here at Backroads. Our trip planners are passionate about finding new destinations for you to explore, and our 2012 lineup showcases a collection of our all-time best itineraries, plus new trips in France, Spain, Iceland, Canada, the U.S. and more!
New Classic Biking Trips
Dolomites: Epic Alpine Passes in Northern Italy
If you're thrilled by the possibility of conquering 14 alpine passes in six days, this may be the perfect trip for you. Challenge yourself on some of Italy's most epic cycling routes, reward yourself with Michelin-starred cuisine, and enjoy an insider's glimpse at a captivating mix of cultures.
Mallorca: Spain's Idyllic Mediterranean Island
Find bicycling bliss on the idyllic Mediterranean isle of Mallorca. Breathtaking climbs and sinuous descents will thrill you. Timeless villages, medieval monasteries and hidden beaches will delight you. Join us and fall in love with it all.
Spain: From Barcelona to the Pyrénées & Costa Brava
Spain's Catalonia region is yours to discover on this captivating new trip. With Barcelona as your gateway city (a perfect spot for extending your vacation), pedal from the rugged Pyrénées to the spectacular Mediterranean waters and romantic coves of the Costa Brava.
Ireland: Counties Cork & Kerry in the Southwest
With a misty beauty that's charmed travelers for centuries, Ireland is pure magic to explore on two wheels. There's country lanes and glacier-carved valleys for biking. Quaint villages to visit. Whiskey and Guinness to taste. There's just something about Ireland. Come find your bliss.
Holland & Belgium: From the Dutch Countryside to Beautiful Bruges
Two countries. Two wheels. Endless appeal. All that's missing is you! Come bike easygoing routes with us amid storybook villages, flower fields and dreamy canals. Discover the charm of the Dutch countryside and the romantic beauty of Bruges.
California's Big Sur Coast: From Monterey to Santa Barbara
Let us introduce you to the dream road. It hugs California's coast, with rugged cliffs, crashing waves and iconic redwoods. It leads past classic lighthouses and historic missions, from charming Carmel to sun-kissed Santa Barbara. Don't just dream it—do it!
Colorado: Silver Mining Towns of the San Juan Mountains
Heart-pounding climbs and exhilarating descents. Big elevation. Big mileage. Million-dollar scenery that's epic in its diversity. Colorado's got it. Are you ready for it? Test your legs (and lungs!) as you bike to such classic Rockies towns as Silverton, Ouray and Telluride.
Costa Rica: Through the Cloud Forest to Arenal Volcano
Pedal through a landscape so rich with natural treasures, it'll take your breath away. Soak in hot springs, explore a cloud forest, gape at waterfalls, marvel at an active volcano and spot wondrous wildlife.
Vermont to Québec: From the Northeast Kingdom to the Eastern Townships & Québec City
Bike the quiet back roads of northern Vermont and Québec's Eastern Townships, discovering classic New England countryside and idyllic villages brimming with Gallic charm. Life in the slow lane doesn't get any sweeter. (Unless, of course, you add maple syrup!)
New Classic Multisport Trips
Canadian Rockies: Biking, Hiking & Rafting in Banff & Yoho National Parks
This new addition to our Canadian Rockies lineup features some of our all-time favorite spots in Banff and Yoho National Parks. And it offers an unbeatable blend of activities—biking, hiking and river rafting—that let you experience the region's splendor from all perspectives.
Galápagos & Andes: Hiking, Biking, Snorkeling & Kayaking in Ecuador's Islands & Highlands
Unleash your sense of wonder high in the Andes. Hike and bike amid volcano-studded highlands where traditional villages, local crafts, folkloric music and ancient ruins are yours to discover. Then sail and snorkel in the Galápagos marine sanctuary, exploring pristine beaches with naturalists.
New Classic Walking Trips
Provence & Costa Brava: From Sunny Southern France to Spain's Heavenly Catalan Coast
Is it possible to improve on perfection? We think so! As if a blissful escape to sunny southern France weren't enough, this unforgettable new trip also introduces you to the Mediterranean seascapes of Spain's sensational Costa Brava.
Iceland: Natural Wonders of the Southern Coast
Glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, fjords, geysers... Experience Earth's most stunning natural wonders in a single trip! From awe-inspiring ice walks to thrilling lava field treks, adventures abound in this wild and remote Nordic wonderland.
New Family Trips
Holland & Belgium: Family Biking From the Dutch Countryside to Beautiful Bruges
Explore the quiet back roads like the locals do—by bike! Spin leisurely through landscapes immortalized by the Old Masters, with languid canals, cobblestone streets and windmills. And enjoy fabulous dining and luxurious hotels reminiscent of the 17th-century golden age.
Canadian Rockies: Hiking, Biking & Rafting in Banff & Yoho National Parks
Expose your kids to all the fun that Mother Nature has to offer! Pedal and hike family-friendly routes amid mighty peaks and turquoise-colored lakes. Make a splash on a Kicking Horse River float trip. And look for marmots, deer and other wildlife with our Trip Leaders, who are certified Mountain Parks Heritage Interpreters.
Galápagos & Andes: Hiking, Biking, Snorkeling & Kayaking in Ecuador's Islands & Highlands
Join us in Ecuador for non-stop thrills and wildlife watching at its finest! Bike and hike in the Andes, discovering ancient ruins, traditional villages, crafts and folkloric music. The fun continues as we island-hop in the Galápagos, where marine iguanas, frigate birds and sea lions strut their stuff.
Iceland: History, Culture & Adventure at the Edge of the Arctic Circle
Glaciers atop volcanoes. Black-sand beaches strewn with icebergs the size of trucks. Plunging waterfalls and gushing geysers. This land of extremes makes for an extremely awesome family adventure, with hiking, rafting, horseback riding and more!