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Hungary, Slovakia & Poland Biking

Hungary, Slovakia & Poland Biking

The reemergence of Hungary, Slovakia and Poland offers a stellar opportunity to discover the glories of old-world Europe. Designed to appeal to a broad range of cycling abilities, this unique itinerary lets you relish full days of 100-kilometer-plus cycling through a region that feels both ancient and amazingly new (or choose a more relaxed pace by taking advantage of our van support). Journey along routes that seamlessly link some of Europe’s most authentic (and least touristed) medieval cities and castles. Hike over the grand High Tatras, bike on quiet roads to alpine hamlets and cap off your journey in the fin-de-siècle gem of Kraków.

Day 1 visegrad

Meet in Budapest Our warm-up ride leads to Visegrád, famous for its early-Renaissance castle.

Day 2 banska stiavnica

Bike across the Mária Valéria Bridge, gracefully spanning the Danube, into Slovakia Pedal to the World Heritage site of Banská Stiavnica, with elegant architecture, cobblestone lanes and lush forested surroundings.

Day 3 banska bystrica

Undulating roads pass through beech forests to secluded Kremnica, an ancient mountain hamlet Explore the prosperous mining town of Banská Bystrica Serenaded by local musicians, savor a traditional dinner in a cellar restaurant.

Day 4 levoca

Ride along forested hills and into the pastureland of Slovakia’s Spis region Wander the walled town of Levoca and visit the 14th-century Sväty Jakub Church

Day 5 javorina

Take a scenic gondola ride into the spectacular High Tatras Enjoy an alpine hike and savor the tremendous views.

Days 6-7 zakopane

Pedal into Poland past remote villages en route to vibrant Zakopane, Poland's winter sports capital  A ride through the countryside and into the foothills leads past beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century wooden churches and farmhouses.

Days 8-9 krakow

Amid inspiring mountain scenery, spin to Niedzica Castle Shuttle to captivating Kraków, another World Heritage site Don’t miss Wawel Castle and the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz with its ancient synagogues.

big map

HISTORIC SETTINGS: Casual Inns

Hotel Silvanus (1 night): Located on a ridge high above town, near the ruins of the Citadel, with an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, Turkish bath and impressive views of the Danube River.

Hotel Grand Matej (1 night): This modest hotel in the heart of town offers comfortable rooms, a wellness center and a restaurant serving international and traditional Slovak cuisine.

Hotel Arcade (1 night): A very basic hotel set in a 16th-century building on a narrow cobblestone street, just steps from the town’s picturesque central square.

Hotel U Leva (1 night): Enjoy the comforts of this newly restored medieval house ideally set near the main square.

Kolowrat Hotel (1 night): Alpine accommodations with fantastic mountain views, a swimming pool, sauna, solarium, massage service, bowling, billiards and a fitness center.

Villa Marilor (2 nights): The small former palace of the Szczeniowski family offers well-appointed rooms, a Jacuzzi and a scenic private park in a spectacular alpine setting.

Hotel Pod Roza (1 night): This elegant hotel, with individually decorated rooms, is located on the historic royal road connecting Floriańska Gate and Wawel Royal Castle.

Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9

Routes For All Abilities

Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.

Activity Level Average Time Biking Average Walking Average
Level 1 2-3 hours 10-20 mile 2-5 miles
Level 2 2-4 hours 21-30 miles 5-7 miles
Level 3 3-5 hours 31-40 miles 7-9 miles
Level 4 4-6 hours 41-55 miles 9-11 miles
Level 5 5-7+ hours 56-75+ miles 11-13+ miles
2010 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS

Guest Trip Reviews

This was my 15th trip and I was worried about "measuring up" to the challenge of the Tatra Mountains. The leaders gave me so much encouragement and support that I felt comfortable and able to do it. Here's to 15 more!!!!
Patricia Ascher - Sausalito, CA

The biking was totally outstanding. The organization of the trip couldn't have been better.
Jim Roberts - Seattle, WA

Great trip. I didn't know Krakow was going to be such a jewel. The riding was some of the best I've experienced - rolling hills, perfect climate, and beautiful hikes.
Robert Marshall - Tuscaloosa, AL

We loved the trip. The countryside was beautiful and the comparisons between countries were dramatic and eye opening. We loved the biking challenge and were thankful our leaders were there to help us manage it.
N. D'Arcy Roche - San Mateo, CA

Great biking, Great leaders, and great cultural experience in the former soviet bloc countries.
Bruce Schadow - Minnetonka, MN

This was a truly remarkable experience! The scenery, the biking, the challenge, the support, the people, the culture...a rare opportunity to see a part of the world that is rich in tradition and beauty. Thanks!!!
Loren Mitchell - Woolwich, ME