We all remember our teenage years—some of us more vividly than others. Looking back, I remember I was both unsure of who I was and convinced I knew everything.

Exploring Europe with your family by bike and on foot offers a unique opportunity to bond while discovering rich history, diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes together.

They say that the memory of tastes and smells is the strongest and longest-lasting of them all. Well, if I had to describe what my childhood tasted and smelled like, I would say olive oil and warm bread.

Guest Raman Pfaff on taking ten trips in one year.

In the land of azulejos, pastel de nata and Port wine, it’s easy to forget that—outside of the stunning seaside cities of Porto and Lisbon—there’s world-class hiking. Portugal is home to some truly incredible hikes that you don’t want to miss! So come with us as we explore some of the best hikes Portugal has to offer.

Hike atop seaside cliffs in France, walk through historic Spartan battlegrounds in Greece or trek among the world-famous Dolomites in Italy. For outdoor enthusiasts, Europe beckons. Lace up your boots and get ready for some of the world’s most iconic trails.

Benvenuti to the Dolomites! Known for their high peaks, deep valleys and charming villages, this is a dream location for a bike tour.

Home to a culture that grew separate from foreign influence, Japan is true to itself and has a distinct character from almost any other place on Earth. Beyond its culture, the land feels undiscovered and is beautiful in its own right. You’ll be up close and personal with this unique culture and stunning landscape as you explore the island on your bike.

Known for its vineyards, pine forests, olive groves and lavender fields, it’s hard to know where to start when you decide to explore Provence.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, pivotal moments when allied forces liberated occupied France and ultimately brought an end to World War II. As a Backroads Trip Leader in Brittany & Normandy, I’ve witnessed first hand the profound impact of revisiting this history and the sense of pride and hope it instills.