After every Backroads trip we come home and say: "that was the best trip ever"! And it always is...until the next one, which of course we begin to plan before we separate from our travel partners and depart for home. And as always: the food, the lodging, the leaders were fabulous. The scenery on this trip was varied ( Provence, Costa Brava) but always beautiful. We saw things and went places that we never would have known about or had access to if it were not for Backroads.. We had the benefit of a couple of private guides joined who provided us with historical perspective and provide idea some cultural enrichment. Every day, every moment was special.

Everything about this trip was wonderful - the hikes, the leaders, the food, the cultural activities. I was able to share this experience with two good friends, met new friends, laughed alot and saw parts of France and Spain I would not have ventured to on my own. It was truly good for my soul!

Backroads' knowledge and attention to detail made this trip unlike any vacation we've ever taken. From the moment we met our guides until the end of the trip things couldn't have been easier, every detail was taken care of. We were able to fully soak in all that we were doing. The itineraries were great, we definitely went places and did things that we wouldn't have been able to on our own. It was like being shown around France and Spain by family that lived there. Our guides Lukas and Jérémie were outstanding whether guiding us through activities, preparing a picnic, teaching us about local foods, lore and customs or knowing when to give space to enjoy it all. They went above and beyond what should been expected to make sure everyone was comfortable. One of the routes on Spain's coast was the most beautiful hike I've ever taken (getting to cool off with a dip in the Mediterranean made it even better). If you're worried about the hiking distances or difficulties, don't be. Our guides were very accommodating for group members that wanted to do the various route options. Some of us did the longest option each day but still didn't find it too tiring (the great hotels & dinners helped). I've made more than 20 trips to Europe for business and vacation, and no other trip came close to being as easy and enjoyable as this one.

This was a favourite BR trip. Beautiful areas and diversity for walking and hiking, especially In low season when it wasn't busy or too hot. Excellent walks and hikes with a nice challenge. Interesting history, great food, especially in France, and lovely guides. A good group, but rather large, several more guests than we were told would be the maximum.

This trip to Provence and Costa Brava was the best experience. From hiking thru fields to hilltop villages and along the rugged Mediterranean coast, to amazing meals and idyllic accommodations, this trip had it all. Our trip leaders, Delphine, Damaris and Audrey were so wonderful and really made each day an exciting adventure.

The hikes were challenging but we were given options to "skip" a portion of the hikes each day, They built in difficulty so the last hike was definitely the most challenging. We visited villages and towns we would have never seen on our own! We also learned much history of the places we visited and this was an added plus!

The trip was so amazing. Our trip leaders Stacy and Laurie made the trip very special, they are both so energetic and knowledgable. You can tell that they truly love this part of the world. Everything was so well organised, maps, daily agenda and hiking instructions top notch. The food was also great, everything from snacks to the restaurants chosen, all excellent. A truly pampered way to take an active trip. I am already looking forward to my next trip with Backroads.

Hiking through the fields of lavender into cobblestone hilltop villages. Walking along the stunning Spanish Coast. Need I say more??

Just returned from this wonderful trip! Our trip leaders could not have been better! Thank you Jess, Del and Nathalie fo making this such a great experience! loved the hotels and the meals! Hiking options were perfect and enjoyed most all of the trails. Fun to switch scenery and culture from Provence to the Costa Brava! ( although was not a big fan of the 6 hour bus trip..but knew what I was in for before I signed up, and our leaders did their very best to make the time pass more quickly!) I also loved the group we met on this trip! I will miss you all!! I would recommend this trip!

This trip was so well planned and organized and we saw so much in 5 short days. The hikes were unique, the food was delicious, although not always for everyone but exceptional if you're into it and the accommodations were excellent and had their own charm. This company is so intentional in what they plan and really do everything to reach all guests. I would highly recommend this trip for anyone wanting to do something new and adventurous and while simultaneously getting a ton (over 70) miles in the books while seeing amazing towns, sights, and exploring all the aspects of nature. Our leaders made it so much fun and being in a smaller group was great because we all really had a chance to interact. This trip was outstanding!