Welcome to The BackBeat. Looking for pro tips and a peek behind the scenes on trips around the world? Tips and tales from the road and trail? Inspiration for your next epic adventure? Find it all on The BackBeat.
August 18, 2026
Keeping Riders Rolling: Supporting the Ring of Beara
The Ring of Beara Cycle is one of Ireland's most popular cycling events, bringing thousands of riders to the Beara Peninsula each year. Through the Backroads Give Back Program, Ireland Field Staff volunteered at a support station, helping cyclists stay hydrated and safe during an unexpected heat wave.
Cycling in Provence offers a striking contrast to the rugged roads of Cornwall. From vineyard-lined routes and mountain vistas to a deeply ingrained cycling culture, every ride reveals a different side of southern France.
For many descendants of Italian immigrants, active travel offers a meaningful way to reconnect with ancestral villages, family history and Italian culture. But the experience rarely remains personal for long—family stories and discoveries often become part of the collective journey, adding meaning for everyone along the way.
French Polynesia's coral reefs face growing environmental challenges despite their pristine appearance. Through visits to Coral Gardeners, Backroads travelers see firsthand how reef restoration and community education are helping protect these vital ecosystems.
Some places are too extraordinary to experience through photos alone. From fiery foliage in Vermont and fresh wines in Portugal to sacred traditions in Japan and wildlife sounds in Nepal, discover fall adventures that engage every sense and create lasting memories.
Michigan is a top destination for active travelers thanks to its Great Lakes coastline, scenic biking, hiking, wine country and landmarks like Sleeping Bear Dunes and car-free Mackinac Island. Backroads explores them all on new Michigan adventures.
New to cycling with Backroads? Part 1 of this beginner-friendly guide covers the essentials, from bike types and cycling gear to e-bikes, pedals and riding comfort. Learn practical tips from a veteran Backroads Trip Leader and build the confidence to enjoy your first cycling adventure.
Italian coffee is more than a drink. It's a daily ritual and an important part of Italian culture. This guide explains the most common coffee drinks in Italy, when locals drink them and how travelers can confidently order coffee like a local.
Looking for the best places to travel in January 2027? From snow-covered trails in the Dolomites to tropical escapes in Thailand, Hawaii, the Galápagos and New Zealand, these five destinations offer unforgettable ways to start the year.
Backroads hotels are carefully selected to enhance each trip, not just provide a place to stay. From Luxury Hotels to boutique properties, every stay is chosen for how well it connects guests to the destination and complements the overall experience.