VBT —  

VBT specializes in deluxe small-group active travel tours, including cycling tours,  bike & barge tours, and walking tours—at a variety of different fitness levels and paces worldwide, including Europe, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Vietnam, Peru, South Africa, China, and the United States.

VBT’s Bike & Barge tours combine river cruising and cycling. With a group of only 20-24 passengers, you’ll unpack just once and for a week, feel as if you’re on a floating hotel. You’ll see more of your destination than on your bicycle alone, and your barge provides a fascinating perspective. Cycle along riverside paths, immersing yourself in local culture with the guidance of experienced, bilingual Trip Leaders, and return to the barge for relaxation, with the assistance of a full-service crew.

On VBT’s walking vacations, you can hike ancient footpaths through terraced hillsides, stroll along winding cobblestone streets, while immersing yourself in local culture as your Trip Leader guides you through a walking tour designed just for you. No matter what your speed or activity level, there’s something for experienced walkers and enthusiastic beginners to enjoy.

VBT promises lower prices than other active-travel companies and include nearly everything for one low price: roundtrip international airfare, all transfers to and from the airport, all accommodations and most meals, use of a customized VBT bicycle (your choice of design), two local, expert VBT Trip Leaders, guided sightseeing, cultural activities, and support vehicles.

Spend your nights in 4-star historic hotels, from country villas and châteaux to unique accommodations like an Austrian shipmaster’s house or a self-sustaining eco-lodge. On your journey enjoy VBT extras like an Italian language lesson, a lecture by a local art historian, or a wine tasting, as well as numerous sightseeing and cultural activities.

Their cycling tours are designed to meet the wide variety of fitness levels with each day offering multiple mileage options.