Guest Reviews: Who Travels With Us

"This was a great trip with a cohesive group of people - which made it even better. I have recommended Backroads many times to friends! You provide great travel experiences and I don't have to worry about anything!"

Kristi Petersen - Denver, CO

"A fabulous trip - best vacation we've had in years! We really enjoyed the group of people we were travelling with, and enjoyed getting to know them over the course of the week. We were all different, yet had the important commonality of wanting a fun, active and adventuresome vacation, and that was a great bond."

Donna Hecker - Columbus, OH

"Our group is really hooked on Backroads trips! This vacation exceeded the expectations of both the repeat customers in the group and also the new comers. Everything about it was terrific - the hotels, food, roads for cycling (absolutely awesome almost no traffic and great countryside), wonderful leaders, etc., etc. It would be hard to think of a way to improve upon our experience."

Martha Altreuter - Marblehead, MA

"To be honest, Backroads far exceeded my expectations with the trip. I'm not usually keen on group trips. However, I was impressed with both the quality and abilities of the leaders, the pre-hike prep and route raps, the number and type of group activities arranged, and the quality of the accommodations. I will definitely look for another Backroads trip to take. Thank you."

Carrol Whynot - Toronto, ON

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"Backroads has freed me up from the time-consuming research, planning and decision making I do to ensure an exciting adventure for our family vacations. The leaders are phenomenal and traveling with other like-minded families has put a new twist on our usually independent travels. This was our first trip with Backroads and it will not be our last. I am looking forward to many more."

Mariann Petersen - Anchorage, AK

"Once again, Backroads provided a most wonderful vacation and family experience. We learned so much about Catalunya and ourselves through this extraordinary trip that took us from the mountains to the sea. Since coming home, much of my day is spent reliving 420 pictures of a most beautiful experience. Everyone says a memory is worth more than things. Backroads has put together a most magical formula to make that happen....We enjoyed the beauty of Spanish culture, the magic of new friendships, the exuberance from athletic challenge (the Lance climb), the growth that comes from laughter, and the love of family. Backroads allows you to just 'be' - to experience the joy of all our senses in a given day, and to appreciate the uniqueness of each one (smell, touch, see, hear and taste). I am forever grateful for all the time and attention that Backroads has given to me and my family. There is no greater thrill than to see your child grow in experience, family and friendship."

Judy Riendeau - Prospect, KY

"This was the best trip ever - it combined the right amount of adult time with family time, exercise and leisure. Given the five-year difference in our kids' ages, combined with our younger son's endless energy, we wanted to find the family vacation that satisfied all our needs and goals, and Backroads fulfilled this in every way. Additionally, our leaders' willingness to be flexible with regard to our itinerary made the trip even more tailored to us. A perfect blend of activity, downtime, family, new friends. We are new fans!"

Janet Myers - Menlo Park, CA

"We were persuaded by the enthusiastic guest comments on your website. The trip met and exceeded our expectations! It was a wonderful trip for the whole family and, although it was a group trip, you were able to meet and cater to each of our individual needs and wants. My husband got to bike all day, the kids got to bike as much as they wanted, made new friends and tried many fun activities. I got my active holiday but had time to soak in the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Loire Valley."

Pauline Tan - Singapore

"Backroads is the way to travel - it was great having all the logistics taken care of. We could just relax and enjoy the trip. The sights were incredible and the activities fun. My children, ages 6-17, all had a wonderful vacation. I cannot say enough nice things about our leaders - they were awesome."

Pat English - Wauwatosa WI

"We are eager to experience the Backroads magic with our family again as soon as possible."

Anne Juster - Cleveland, OH

"This was the best family trip we have ever taken, hands down. I never expected a group trip could be so enjoyable. We bonded with our leaders and the other families immediately - so much so that I expect we will keep in touch with them for a long time. This trip was different from others we have taken - it was an adventure, a challenge, and a growth opportunity for us. Normally, I wouldn't expect my kids (age 10 and 12) to think favorably of a 'growth opportunity', but they loved this trip and are still talking about it."

Susan Mandava

"This was our first group trip as a family. Having traveled with Backroads before as a couple we were pretty sure it would go well, but you never know with kids. Our boys say this was the best trip they have ever taken and they loved everything about it - learning about a new country, the biking, the food, having fun with other families, and most of all - the great leaders! Our leaders made it easy for all the kids on the trip to become fast friends and for the parents to find time to relax. We'll definitely be doing another family Backroads trip again soon!"

Judy Osgood - Reno, NV

"Our family LOVED this trip. Backroads leaders were terrific and mix of activities was just right! New Zealand was the perfect place to spend the holidays with my family and new Backroads friends. I would highly recommend this trip to families who love the outdoors and like to spend their days actively having fun."

Susan Faxon - Harrison, NY

"This was the best family vacation we have ever been on - and we are experienced vacationers. I have already recommended Backroads, and this trip in specific, to friends - and we only got back last night. We have an athletic 15 year old and a not-very-athletic 12 year old. Amazingly, this trip worked well for both kids. Everyone was happy."

Ann Becker - Kentfield, CA

"Superb operation, wonderful (WONDERFUL) family vacation experience. Taking the logistics/planning out of the equation made everything better. And the guides did a tremendous job enabling everyone in our family and our group to customize their daily activities to match their individual preferences. Truly a wonderful family experience."

Jake Durling - San Francisco, CA

"The trip was great because Alaska is Alaska, and the guides vastly exceeded our expectations. My 15-year-old daughter observed that when kids are separated out from parents in a group setting, they are usually treated differently and not as well. Elizabeth said that our guides were as fun, kind and attentive at all times and in all places. She really appreciated it."

David Eades - Charlotte, NC

"We had a fantastic family vacation thanks to your careful planning and attention to detail! It was sad to say goodbye to all our new friends and much harder to get the entire family to agree on what activities to pursue or sights to see once we left the group."

Wendy Renz - Guilford, CT

"We would never be able to arrange all the activities, the bicycling routes, etc. by ourselves. The food was incredible! The people we met along the way were so nice and helpful with directions. It was truly an experience of a lifetime. We just came back yesterday and I was already online planning our next Backroad trip. This is definitely the way to go when you want a quality family trip. You will be with your family, you will be active which is so good for you, you will meet people who are so interesting and have similar goals, the kids will have so much fun each day and you will be in the most amazing places."

Margaret Galle - West Simsbury, CT

"This has to be one of the best trips with our grandchildren and daughters that we have experienced. And it was all because of the incredible leaders, their interaction with our group and the manner in which they guided us through all of our activities. There are just not enough adjectives to describe these young men and the skill they have in handling the range of age groups on our trip, realizing my limitations and being successful in finding ways to bring me into the activities."

Sally McMullin - Scottsdale, AZ

"The trip was beyond our expectations! Each day brought new experiences, sights, activities and enjoyment for everyone. We made new friends, shared stories, enjoyed different foods and our leaders were outstanding. The kids will have such wonderful memories."

Holly Morris - Duxbury, MA

"We love to vacation with Backroads (this is our 6th trip) and share these active adventures with our children. The many options allow everyone in our family to enjoy the challenges and beauty of the trip at their own pace and without any hassles. We highly recommend Backroads to our friends."

Janis Wilbur - Lexington, VA

"It was a very fun experience. The leaders were fantastic. They were great with my kids. My kids loved the activities for children, especially the glass blowing and cart racing. We had a fantastic time and everyone we talk to about our trip is fascinated. I can't believe how interested they are in everything we did. I can't wait for the next trip."

Wendy Collins - Aurora, CO

"You provided not only us but our three children with a magnificent trip that will be etched in all of our minds forever. We could not have asked for a more excellent way to celebrate sending our first born off to college this fall."

Franky Voss - Muncie, IN

"The best compliment of all is that our kids all said this was the best trip we've ever taken. Our leaders were outstanding in every way = made us all comfortable and relaxed. They were a wealth of information about the parks and surrounding areas, handled the wide range of age levels in our group very well (kids ages 6-19), provided games to play, engaged the kids during 'down time,' and made their own tasks seem effortless and seamless. The food was superb and their positive outlook was contagious and uplifting. We can hardly wait to book our next trip!"

Susan Hunt - Mc Lean, VA

"The trip was outstanding. My son said "This was the best vacation of my entire life!" And we all agreed that this was the perfect vacation for our family. We loved the activities, the scenery, the friendships among the kids, and we were so impressed with the enthusiasm and energy of the trip leaders. We're already planning our next Backroads Family camping trip for next summer."

Linda Gross - Encino, CA

"Our leaders were fantastic-- 'off the charts'! A family trip is really challenging and they had a large group of teenage boys that they were wonderful with (no small feat), encouraging them in all the activities, getting the shy ones to come into their own, keeping up with the more outgoing ones and rising to every occasion. At the same time they made a group of preteen girls fall totally in love with them. And finally, they made us parents feel truly relaxed, taking over all the logistics and details of tours, transportation, meals and much more. The local guides were all great and it was clear that our leaders had nurtured good relationships with them, and even friendships. Costa Rica has much to offer, but it always comes down to the personal experiences one has, and those were memorable."

Jane Fink - Vienna, VA

"This was the best family vacation we ever had, and a great part of that was due to the wonderful leaders we had, who were simply outstanding. They not only were sensitive to our every need and concern, they were wonderful with the children, all of whom clearly ended up worshiping them and wishing--like us--that the trip would not end. I think our son would have preferred to go with them at the end than to come home with us! All in all, we're with Backroads for the long haul and look forward to another trip soon."

Stephen Block - Manhattan Beach CA

"Our leaders were beyond the pale fabulous with my daughter, Vivian. They showed endless patience and willingness to just play --which is all an 11 year old wants anyway. I've been on two previous Backroads Solo trips and thought they were outstanding. But the quality, sensitivity, and just plain fun of this family trip has made me a true Backroads believer. We will be back! ps. From Vivian (11): "It was really, really, really, really fun!"

Kate Sparks - Alexandria, VA

"It was an excellent trip with a great mix of fun culture and activity. And everyone was super friendly and helpful. My kids especially loved it and said 'WE DIDN'T KNOW A TRIP LIKE THIS WAS POSSIBLE!'."

Norman Weinstein - New York, NY

"This was a fabulous trip! We had a 19 year old and a 5 year old and neither has stopped talking a about how much fun s/he had. I did not want to miss an activity because all were geared around seeing or doing something new. The climb to Angel's landing was stupendous! The campsite at the Grand Canyon was superb. We have been on several European trips and had heard good things about the family trips! My wife doesn't even care to camp and she did not complain once due to the superior trip planning and the support team we had. Well done and keep up the good work! We look forward to seeing Provence with you in September."

Gary Bacon - Carmel, IN

"Traveling Backroads-style helped introduce our children to Europe and taught them how much richer travel is when you talk to the people, eat their food and give yourself over to their way of life. The kid-only activities (scavenger hunt, pottery and fish & chips dinner) were amazingly well thought out - they were learning without feeling taught!"

Karen Traina - Wrightsville Beach, NC

"For our family, Backroads represents a wonderful safety net, letting us try new things and go new places with absolute confidence. We watched our kids make chocolates at a small village chocolatier, sampled a 1995 vintage wine from a local vintner, stayed at wonderful inns, and rode past scenes of incredible beauty. All without having to worry about buying a ticket, making a reservation, or getting lost. It was a wonderful experience."

Miner Raymond

"...this trip...the first with my daughter was awesome! Our leaders were the best... The food was fantastic and ordering off the menu was such a great thing. Isabella and I had so much fun and the activities were just the right level for an almost seven year old. One thing you can't know in advance is the interactions between the different folks taking the trip....but, we all hit it off and the parents and kids became like one big happy family. I can't wait to take the next family trip. I have been on several Solo Backroads trips in the past and could not wait for my daughter to be old enough to join me...our first experience was a great start."

Barbara Charles - Syosset, NY

"I thoroughly enjoyed this Backroads trip. The region, leaders and mix of families on the trip were all wonderful. It was an excellent mix of physical activity, historical and cultural learning and fun. My entire family had a great experience. We're ready to do it again somewhere new!"

Tina Arechiga - Long Beach, CA

"This was our first experience with Backroads, and what a great experience it was! The leaders for our trip were awesome and bonded with our kids (and us!). They took the time in the evenings to talk with the kids and play fun games with them. They are truly fine young adults who are role models for our children. Because of our experience with this team, we are already in the planning stage for our next Backroads vacation with a family we met on this trip! Thanks for making this our best family vacation!"

Mary Jo Seline - Menasha, WI

"My husband and I were in awe as to the enthusiasm of ALL the family - adults as well as children and how much fun they had - and the ease with how everyone got along together. The fun of us observing them and being with all of them - yet not on top of each other - was wonderful. The activities and organization of the trip made it so easy and enjoyable. It is so nice to not be making decisions about where to go, when to eat, where to eat, arrange transportation, etc. - and still have some choices."

Joan Strait - Lakewood, WA

"Backroads planned an amazing and rich trip, and executed it with polish and good humor. We were extremely impressed and will travel with Backroads on all our future organized travel. Guides were wonderful with guests, kids, dietary and medical restrictions, and at keeping everything moving smoothly. By the end of the trip, we felt our family had grown to include the leaders and other guests."

Denise Pinkston - Berkeley, CA

"Fabulous! The leaders were outstanding and our kids had the time of their lives. Backroads is a great way to travel for a busy family - minimal preparation required, and a rich and diverse schedule of activities and experiences that we never could have planned on our own."

Terri Cammarano - Palos Verdes Estates, CA

"Another outstanding Backroads experience - flawlessly executed by your amazing leaders. You guys pack more into five or six days without ever making guests feel rushed - including cultural contacts with the locals that would be impossible to arrange on one's own. Thanks again from all of us!"

Victor Lerch - Raleigh, NC

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"This was my first Backroads trip and I was blown away. The level of service is incredible. The idea that I can take an active trip but still be pampered is so cool and I feel, as a person of only 23 years, Backroads will definitely be the first place a look when deciding on future trips. After this experience I almost feel it is the ONLY way to travel...I chose Backroads because I wanted to travel solo and it seemed like the best way to have a full experience, and be safe traveling alone."

Kristin Cardo - Quoque, NY

"Backroads makes it easy to vacation on my own by creating a comfortable environment for the solo traveler and by doing all the logistical 'heavy lifting' so that I can just kick back and enjoy the adventure. Whether I plan months in advance or want to book a trip at the last minute, I always appreciate the enthusiasm and assistance of the Backroads staff."

Stephanie Busloff - New York, NY

"The trip exceeded my expectations. As this was my first Backroads trip, I had some trepidation particularly because I was solo. The leaders quickly eliminated any concerns I may have had. Of course the scenery was incredible, but importantly Backroads gave much thought to the chosen routes and paths, which in turn enhanced the whole experience."

Eileen Cohen - Long Beach, NY

"This was definitely one of my best vacations ever. As a single woman who loves the outdoors, I often have a hard time finding people to travel with, especially on an active trip like this. The solo trip was the PERFECT way for me to travel alone and do what I love to do while meeting some great people to share it all with!"

Jill Badgett - Lexington, KY

"As a single female who loves to travel, Backroads has provided me the opportunity to safely travel and see many different areas, have an active vacation, and to meet great people! THANKS!"

Elizabeth Coombs - Philadelphia, PA

"It was my first Backroads trip and I was traveling by myself. I wasn't sure what to expect. Everyone was so nice and welcoming. I had a wonderful trip and made a lot of new friends."

Shari Liotta - Isle of Man, United Kingdom

"This trip was definitely one of the best!!! The biking was great (many types of terrain,) the food was delicious and the scenery was simply breathtaking. Loved loved loved the Barsento tour! What a gorgeous place and the lunch was beyond compare! Mimmo was a great addition to our schedule, in that his love of Puglia is infectious. It is wonderful to see someone so proud of his country and hometown that he wants to share it with people. On a personal note, I have to add that Backroads has really become an integral part of my life. It only took one trip to get me hooked. I love the research and anticipation before the trip, meeting new people and experiencing so many different things."

Amy Bell - Charlotte, NC

"Being a single woman in her mid-30s without tremendous knowledge of foreign countries or foreign languages, I had been quite hesitant to travel to Europe by myself. Backroads' 'Singles & Solos' trips are a good meeting point between traveling alone and traveling with a group. With Backroads, I feel like I have more freedom to travel 'by myself.'"

Marcy Chelmow - New York, NY

"This was my first Backroads trip and I was incredibly impressed. I have to admit I was nervous before the trip, because I was going by myself. Well, I ended up having a great time and really enjoying my fellow travelers - and the tour leaders. I was also a little concerned about the biking, but it was just about right. I wasn't the fastest, and I wasn't the slowest. And the best part was all the trail mix you could eat!"

Sara Oberlies - Manhattan Beach, CA

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"Once again Backroads came through with another amazing experience for my family. This trip was terrific. Backroads' recommendation that the Loire Valley would be great for the range of kids (ages 8-17) and biking abilities of our group was right on the mark. The accommodations, amount of biking, scenery/stops along the way and non-biking activities were all fantastic. But what once again made this trip truly special for all of us (adults and kids) was the guides. They were enthusiastic, energetic, fun and incredibly thoughtful. They were always thinking ahead and quickly understood the various personalities of adults and children. When biking, they always knew were to wait with the van to cajole us forward with snacks, smiles and words of encouragement. Thank you Backroads for delivering on the value-added proposition of a private trip!"

Jordan Busch - Wayland, MA

"We cycled three times with one of your competitors - but no more! During our Private Trip in the Wine Country, you outperformed them on every scale. Your Private Trips Manager did an absolutely superb job of managing every detail of the pre-trip planning. Our guides were gems-friendly, caring, super helpful, smart, classy and fun."

Bill Holland - Kenilworth, IL

"A++++. We don't know how we can ever have a better vacation. I look at our trip pictures everyday and smile."

Michael Blumstein - Scarsdale, NY

"Unbelievable in every way! A+++++++++++! Exceeded all expectations!!!!! I can't say enough."

Kate Weatherman Brown - Washington, D.C.

"Fantastique, Superbe, Formidable, Excellent, Oooh la laaaa!"

Marion Hall - Atlanta, GA

"Fantastic family experience. Our best trip yet! The trip was fabulous. The leaders and support made all the difference. Our every need was met. Our every expectation was exceeded. Thanks for the fabulous memories. Thank you."

Jim Borders - Atlanta, GA

"An amazing experience and incredible trip leaders... an absolutely unforgettable trip!!"

Lindsey Oken - Columbia MD

"What a wonderful trip!!! My only complaint is that the food was too too good. Nobody should eat so well for ten nights in a row. You guys are the best!"

Robert Friend - San Francisco, CA

"Once again Backroads exceeded my expectations. I don't think we'll ever take another trip that's NOT Backroads."

Deborah Crisfield - Summit, NJ

"Fantastic - just perfect. You run a top-notch operation. The guides/leaders are amazing - a real joy to get to know as well as very informed about all kinds of things we wanted to know. Always upbeat and trying to give us the best possible experience."

Roz Meyer - New Haven, CT

"I thoroughly enjoyed this Backroads trip to the Czech Republic and Austria. It's the experience of all-day biking and excellent service of our leaders that make your tours an unforgettable experience. Our group was comprised of all friends and neighbors--we were amazed at how everyone, even the first time Backroads participants, would go on another Backroads biking tour in a heartbeat."

Bernadette Reist - Jenkintown, PA

"Excellent - great leaders, good hotels, great meals and entertainment and good biking and equipment! Thanks so much. We really appreciated the opportunity to put together our own trip of 3 families. The guides made sure that we were able to do what we wanted (including the kids, ages 12-20), and that made for a very rewarding trip. We also appreciated all the special touches Backroads offered: musicians at our fabulous final dinner in Cesky Krumlov, the special picnic along the Danube, the Austrian dancers, Helena and her informational evening in Cesky Krumlov, the impromptu rafting trip for the kids after a hot day of biking, etc., etc. Our thoughtful guides made it all possible and we so appreciated their leadership!"

Sara Howard - Larkspur, CA

"We have always been impressed by Backroads' ability to put together amazing trips, but this one presented an incredible blend of great biking routes, history, inns and food. Dining with Andre Heintz and hearing about the resistance to the German occupation of France was a special experience. The routes that led to and from the medieval city of Dinan were unforgettable as was seeing the Bayeux tapestry. The leaders went out of their way to accommodate our diverse interests. I wish all the vacation experiences we had were as consistently wonderful."

John Harris - Scarsdale, NY

"Our 50th anniversary family trip was absolutely wonderful. I never saw anyone at any time who didn't have a big smile on their face. We (some of us) were often tired, but it was a good feeling and one of accomplishment. Our group consisted of folks from Ironman to couch potato abilities and we were all satisfied!"

Linda Goodwin - Frisco, CO

"For us, the biggest plus about a Private Trip is the in-depth time to spend with our long-standing friends and the opportunity to really have a great experience together."

Marc Lippman - Ann Arbor, MI

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"This was my first Backroads experience. I had heard and read some wonderful stories, and so my expectations were rather high. I can honestly say that this trip exceeded every expectation I had and raised the bar to unbelievable heights. I have never experienced a more prepared and pleasurable trip. Every facet of the week was excellent - from the first meeting to the final wrap up. It was an awesome experience!!"

Peter Doyle - Lynchburg, VA

"This was our first biking trip, and we were all a bit apprehensive about not having the chance to 'relax by the pool' all week as we usually do on spring break. The trip exceeded our expectations, and I am not sure 'relaxing by the pool' will continue to be the spring break status quo!"

Shannon Weinberger - Hinsdale, IL

"I am a very seasoned traveler. I have been to every continent and most places in the world, and would never have considered doing an organized trip like this one in the past. Most of my trips have been on my own or with friends. But Backroads has done such a spectacular job that you have changed my way of thinking when it comes to travel."

Beth Robbins - Steamboat Springs, CO

"We had such a great time and this was the first time we had ever done a vacation like this. It was the trip of a lifetime that we cannot stop thinking and talking about. The people we met on the train platform in Florence started out as strangers and ended up as friends that we are planning on seeing again!"

William Bachhuber - New Hartford, CT

"This was my first Backroads trip and I was incredibly impressed. I have to admit I was nervous before the trip, because I was going by myself. Well, I ended up having a great time and really enjoying my fellow travelers - and the tour leaders. I was also a little concerned about the biking, but it was just about right. I wasn't the fastest, and I wasn't the slowest. And the best part was all the trail mix you could eat!"

Marcy Chelmow - New York, NY

"This was my first bike trip and I will admit that I was nervous about it. My husband is the biker in the family, but my trepidation was overcome by my desire to share this experience with him. I need not have worried, your leaders never once made me feel that I was an encumbrance. With their expert advice and warm support, I felt as good about reaching my own goals as those who were able to finish every mile did. Kudos to you for your excellent choice of staff and obvious good training. I have been singing the praises of Backroads ever since we returned. Thank you for a wonderful experience."

Carolyn McGoldrick - Portland, ME

"This was our first Backroads trip and we were very impressed. We are already thinking about our next trip. We were astounded at the number of repeat Backroads guests on this trip - we now know why!!"

Georgia Nishimura - San Diego, CA

"This was our first trip and of course we didn't know what to expect, but were immediately put at ease by the leaders and the other guests who have done this before. I was so impressed by the professionalism of the young leaders, their knowledge of the area, the handling of people and what they brought to the party."

Joanne Mahoney - Hopkinton, MA

"The bar has been set extremely high for any future Backroads trips that I may take, as this inaugural experience was simply amazing. While some of the factors contributing to making this such a wonderful experience were related to personal goals and accomplishments, the support of the Backroads team (the routes, van support, logistics, etc.), the leaders, and my fellow travelers were instrumental to my overall highly positive experience."

Dawn Mathern - Bellevue, WA

"I can't say enough good things about the trip! I've been wanting to take an inn-to-inn biking trip ever since I first read about a Loire Valley trip over 20 years ago; however this was not only my first biking tour, it was my first tour ever. Every aspect of it was great - I haven't felt so well taken care of, so carefree and had so much fun since I was a child. I can't wait for my next Backroads trip! This was my idea of the perfect vacation! I felt like a child again - outdoors and active all day and totally taken care of in every way."

Margaret Erickson - Silver Spring, MD

"The trip exceeded expectations - every aspect was well planned and enjoyable. It was my first Backroads trip - I'm not typically a group traveler but the combination of our knowledgeable and engaging guides, the Croatian destination, panoramic hikes, gorgeous ship, superb meals, lovely accommodations and spirited fellow travelers made the Dalmatian Coast an especially memorable trip. I look forward to planning my next Backroads adventure."

Cindy Case - Minneapolis, MN

"This was my first experience with Backroads and it was superb! The accommodations were delightful, the meals were excellent, the walking was completely doable and the cooking was thoroughly enjoyable. I loved that everything was not only taken care of for us, but done so discreetly and well. We came on the trip to relax yet be semi-active and that was accomplished excellently!"

Jody Moss - Encino, CA

"This was my first Backroads trip and I felt it was absolutely amazing, fantastic, terrific and wonderful - better than I expected in all respects: meals, accommodations, intensity of biking and hiking, dynamics of the group and overall 'high' feeling throughout the entire trip."

Shelli Zelsman - Thornhill, Ontario

"Excellent trip and assistance throughout the tour. Backroads was my first 'active' vacation and I'm never going back to a relaxing day at the beach...I feel more refreshed after doing, seeing and learning interesting things while making new friends within our group."

Ken Schmidt - Tracy, CA

"I had never done anything like this before and it was absolutely the most amazing trip I've ever taken. Everything about it was wonderful! I smiled during the entire trip and have been telling all of my friends about it in the most glowing terms I can think of."

Jo Curran - St. Louis, MO

"Just returned home from the Backroads Thailand bicycle adventure. I am exhilarated, enthused and disappointed that it had to end. This was my first experience with Backroads, and all aspects of the trip were exceptional. Your organization sets a very high standard of customer service, and it is very much appreciated. The leaders were exceptional. Their enthusiasm for their jobs and their lives is contagious, and their dedication to service is obvious. What a pleasure to spend a week in such an exotic location and have these great people take care of everything. The complete success of each day was never doubted. You can be assured that I will travel with Backroads in the future, and will probably become a Backroads junkie! Thanks for a great trip."

Michael C. Peterson - Seattle, WA

"This was my first Backroads experience and it certainly surprised me. This trip was fantastic! I was thrilled with the choice of activities and the accommodations. I was quite nervous at first as I didn't know what the expected level of fitness was to be, but I found the activities were so fun, interesting and varied that I forgot to be worried. I guess you could say that I surprised myself as well, in what I was able to achieve. Our leaders were fantastic and offered great support and energy. They reminded me and all of us that this was a vacation and not a race so the first order of business was fun! I am back home now and have told my children that they have to go online so we can choose our next trip with Backroads. Even if that doesn't work out I will be going on my own again. Thanks for an unforgettable time."

Xandra Shen - Toronto, Ontario

"We could not have asked for a finer introduction to Backroads than being with folk who have travelled with you 15 times, 3 times, etc.!! A commentary on the excellence provided by the company and the leaders that are hired. Congratulations to you all. We loved our trip and will return."

Victoria Macrae - Toronto, Ontario

"This was my first Backroads trip, and it was fabulous. Our rides were meticulously organized; the group was congenial; our leaders were consistently competent, warm and enthusiastic. I loved the rustic countryside and the warm responses of residents when we greeted them in Portuguese. The rides were fabulous and planned to allow some options for challenging hills at the end, since our pousadas sat on hillsides."

Andrea Clardy - Jamaica Plain, MA

"I had never participated in an organized group trip and was overwhelmingly delighted with my experience. Every day there was something that occurred that clearly illustrated the company and the trip leaders' personal commitment to insuring we had an enjoyable experience that lived up to our expectations. Whether it was the surprise special events, helping us find ATMs, interpreting, or filling us in on cultural information while we rode - I felt well attended to throughout the trip."

Heather Markham - Burlington, MA

"This was my first trip with Backroads and I just loved it! It was so nice having everything planned out so I could just sit back (or in my case ride the bike) and not have to worry about the little details of the trip. I'm already thinking about where we can go on our next trip with Backroads. "

Colleen Rigby - San Diego, CA

"This was my first Backroads trip and it sure won't be my last. It is a wonderful way to travel and see the sites and meet so many wonderful people and get exercise all at the same time."

Patty Garrett - Arlington, WA

"This was my first trip with Backroads. Your company did come highly recommended from friends. But I had to experience it for myself. And man, did it exceed my expectations! The level of service was impeccable, our leaders were a blast, the food was great, and the level of riding was perfect for my ability. The group was a lot of fun and by the end of the trip we were all like family! You have great people working here."

Peggy Hymel - San Anselmo, CA

"Call me a skeptic, but I was really resistant to booking Backroads. I'm used to planning our own trips and finding all kinds of hidden gems myself. I was so pleased with Backroads who did all the homework. This was the most relaxing vacation I have ever taken--because I trusted the leaders and realized we weren't getting the typical 'touristy' look at countries."

Justina Headley - Medina, WA

"This was my first Backroads trip, and it exceeded all my expectations. There was a wonderful balance of biking, cultural, and culinary activities...as well as ample time for relaxation. Each day was so full, and the week passed too quickly. Yet, it was the perfect trip length. The guide at Alberobello is perhaps the most memorable. Again, it is that love and passion for his home that comes through and makes the tour so enjoyable. That, and the limoncello, rosecello, meloncello, almondcello, etc that we got to sample!"

Andrea Wang - Washington, DC

"This is our first Backroads trip. It far exceeded our expectations, in every way. The food was over the top in quality and quantity. The scenery and hiking are diverse and extraordinary. The inns were intimate and excellent. But it was the guides who made the trip so very special. They appeared to handle all the logistics effortlessly and we so appreciated having everything handled. They both provided leadership, but it never quite appeared so. They were tons of fun, inspiring, well informed and good teachers, and just so generally interesting as human beings I would have loved to have been almost anywhere with them. I effuse enough. It was a perfect trip."

Laura Gamble - Carmel, CA

"Absolutely amazing - great trip for a first-timer, loved the mix of people - we weren't the youngest but not the oldest either. The next trip will be tough to match this one! We were wowed!!"

Florence Schretzmann - Moraga, CA

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"I have now finished ten trips with Backroads and continue to be overwhelmed by your formula and its superb execution by your well trained, thoughtful, kind, friendly, knowledgeable, and most professional group of leaders. Tom, my hat is off to you and your team for all you do to make our lives a bit more enjoyable trip after trip. Here's to my first ten trips. I am very much looking forward to the next ten. Thanks for all the good times and life-long memories created along the way."

Richard Westin - Orinda, CA

"The trip was fantastic - yet another fabulous Backroads experience. I really feel rested and relaxed - not an easy thing for a New Yorker! I love the feeling of being taken care of for a week - not having to worry about anything, knowing that Backroads has thought of everything I could ever want, in addition to a whole bunch of stuff I never would have thought of! I'm already planning my next trips."

Amy Ayres - New York, NY

"Once again, Backroads has delivered! This is our third trip and it was fantastic. From the scenery, the biking, the leaders, the food and wine, and the inns - it was a phenomenal experience in every way. We feel we've become Backroads ambassadors as we tell everyone we know how unbelievable these trips are. It is the ideal way to vacation for us - great places, great food, lots of exercise and all we need to do is make our way over to the start location!"

Lori Hess - Simsbury, CT

"I've come to expect a lot (this was trip #21), but you always deliver. Thank you."

Bruce Judd - Palo Alto, CA

"Backroads never fails to satisfy my curiosity and sense of adventure...This latest trip was no exception! I think this was my 6th or 7th Backroads trip over the past 25 years. I've never been disappointed...It is my preferred way to see new countries and new cultures, and there's truly something for everyone in each trip. The quality of your guides and trip leaders continues to improve to even greater excellence. I wish all businesses were run with this kind of customer-service attention, and basic knowledge (both programs and operations) at such a high caliber. Tom Hale and his team are geniuses!"

Suzette Rivera - Sierra Madre, CA

"You've done it again, Backroads. My husband and I agree that Backroads provides the best service of any business/company that we have ever dealt with. We tell our friends that Backroads is the company to use for their active vacations. You do all the work, the research, the preparation, the arrangements...and we have all the fun. We should be your poster children. This was our 8th Backroads hiking trip and I hope for strong legs for many more years to come so that we can continue to hike mountains with you."

Carol Feder - Potomac, MD

"This trip was fantastic, particularly because of the variety of accommodations and the opportunity to visit different parts of Africa - cities, reserves, etc. As usual, the guides were wonderful! Their level of professionalism and caring is what separates Backroads from other tour companies and keeps bringing us back! We have now done 29 trips and look forward to more. Thank you!"

Margo Requarth - Sebastopol, CA

"This was our ninth Backroads trip and they seem to get better every time. The experience of the Morocco trip was something totally different then we have ever experienced before, and it was fantastic!"

Tom Backofen - Orland Park, IL

"This was my 13th trip with Backroads and it definitely exceeded my expectations which is harder and harder to do!"

Cindy Black - San Francisco, CA

""This was my 10th trip with Backroads. I have friends who can't believe I would just show up half way around the world on my own to meet up with people I don't know for a trip in exotic places like Vietnam and Cambodia. I always tell them that I don't have any concerns because I know Backroads will not disappoint. The leaders will be where they say they will be and provide an amazing experience. It's the little things - like meeting with a village leader in his home to discuss life in the village, meeting a knowledgeable historian and having dinner in his home, getting inside the private home of a woman to see what a local home is like - that set these trips apart from the usual bus ride and photo op. I also know the other guests will be interesting and good travel companions. And I will have another experience of a lifetime.""

Barbara Grewe - Bethesda, MD

"This trip was my 16th with Backroads, and it surpassed my expectations. The hiking and vistas were extraordinary, of course, and the sunny weather almost the entire week enhanced each day's hike. But our two leaders were particularly remarkable: professional, reliable, well prepared, warm, thoughtful and creative. Also, I had not expected such culinary delights. At least once a day, I was thrilled with some gourmet experience: fresh gravlax at breakfast; polenta with wild mushrooms at Rifugio Elisabetta or a 40-egg omelet with potatoes in the middle of a hike at Refuge de Miage. And that raclette? And the glorious presentations at L'O a la Bouche restaurant. Hats off to you Backroads. You keep getting better and better. I'm hooked forever! And I'm appreciative."

Mauree Jane Perr - San Francisco, CA

"Backroads has grown in the 20+ years I have been going on the trips, but it has only gotten better. From being a single person, to a married couple, to a family, I have taken trips at each stage of my life."

Linda Sterling - Montclair, NJ

"This is my fourth trip and they keep getting better! Congratulations."

Marta Amaral - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

"We had a fantastic and memorable experience. As on our previous Backroads trips, everything went smoothly from beginning to end. Your company is truly first class. I'm already planning my next trip."

Nancy Cowley - Vancouver, BC

"I've traveled a lot with Backroads and I thought I knew the level of organization and service to expect, but this exceeded my expectations. It was a really a perfect trip for my nine-member family. The guides and camp helpers were wonderful... They're all keepers. Thanks for another wonderful experience."

Patricia Poe - Ashland, OR

"Of the four absolutely awesome Backroads trips I've taken, this has been the best. Croatia is heavenly and the Bozidar experience was what made it for my family. Diving off the boat into the Adriatic was spectacular, and Stipe and crew were fabulous--what great food and kindness!"

Patty Oey - Sunnyvale, CA

"This was my third trip with Backroads and I absolutely loved it! I have described it to my friends and family as a perfect mix of everything I love to do on vacation. It was truly a wonderful vacation and I couldn't have picked a better place in the country...our weather was amazing and so was the company!"

Debra Chase - Miami, FL

"This is my second Backroads trip, and I definitely look forward to more. We experienced so many things that we never would have been able to do on our own, for example, the hike into the Berber village and tea at a home there. Local guides added much to our knowledge, helping us understand the Moroccan/Muslim culture. I have tried to determine my favorite part of the trip, but I just can't single out a specific part. Each day was a new adventure, and they all blended together to make this one of my most memorable trips. Thank you so much."

Jean Herman - Stillwater, MI

"We are loyal Backroads travelers because we love seeing the country from the seat of a bicycle. However, this trip was AMAZING because of the range of activities available to the guests. Our leaders made everyone feel good about their choice of activity (or inactivity, as the case may have been!)."

AnnaLisa Erickson and Michael Felber - Santa Monica CA

"I know it can sound insincere to rate a trip so highly, but I simply cannot find anything to complain about on this trip. It absolutely exceeded my expectations in every way. I think Backroads is such an awesome company. This is our second Backroads trip, and I would gladly go on many more. The combination of keeping to a schedule and being flexible is perfect, and the balance of physical and cultural activity just right."

Vicki W. - Seattle, WA

"This was my third trip with Backroads and I have come to expect outstanding service and am never disappointed!! The trip surpassed my expectations and I am already trying to decide what my next destination with Backroads will be!!"

Debra Greenstein - New York, NY