The cycling holiday can take many forms. Bikepacking, excursions around a selected location, multi-day itineraries. But for those who want to experience a unique way that combines the joy of cycling with the relaxation of a cruise, they can consider a bike and boat holiday.
Here we have selected five itineraries for the upcoming summer and the special offers available during the Cycle Tourism Show.
1. Istria, Croatia
This tour offers the opportunity to explore the Istrian peninsula, known for its medieval villages, rugged coastlines, and delicious local cuisine. Participants will cycle through hilly landscapes, visiting historic towns like Poreč and Rovinj, with stops to taste local wines and gastronomic specialties.
They will admire the imposing Roman amphitheater of Pula and be enchanted by the bohemian atmosphere of the artist village of Grožnjan. The tour will take cyclists along the scenic Leme Channel, a natural fjord, and discover the underground wonders of the Baredine Cave, with its hidden lake.
During the tour, up to 30% of the cycling paths run on forest trails or unpaved roads, away from traffic, for an even more immersive experience in nature.
2. Kvarner Bay, Croatia
This itinerary takes you through the Kvarner Bay archipelago, characterized by pristine islands and crystal-clear waters. Cyclists will have the opportunity to visit islands like Krk, Rab, and Cres, each with its own uniqueness. The daily bike rides, of moderate difficulty, will allow participants to discover ancient fishing villages, hidden beaches, and incredible natural landscapes, with overnight stays on a cozy boat.
The journey lasts 8 days and offers the chance to admire, in addition to the mentioned locations, the lunar landscape of Rab, enjoy mud treatments at Soline, and taste the region’s famous dairy specialties.
3. Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, Italy
This exclusive eight-day tour combines cycling and hiking through Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, a region rich in natural wonders and history.
Participants will explore volcanic islands like Stromboli and Vulcano, with the chance to witness spectacular nighttime eruptions. Activities include cycling through hilly landscapes, visiting archaeological sites, and tasting renowned Sicilian cuisine. Must-see attractions include the Milazzo Castle and a dip in the Venus Pool in Vulcano.
The bike excursions are of moderate difficulty, through hilly terrain, suitable for cyclists who ride regularly and are comfortable with longer climbs (25-40 km per day with an elevation gain of 300-500 meters).
4. Northern Burgundy, France
An eight-day journey offering an immersion in the northern Burgundy region, known as “The land of good living“. Participants will cycle through rural landscapes, visiting ancient medieval villages, historic towns like Sens and Auxerre, and tasting some of the world’s best wines, cheeses, and ciders.
The bike routes are classified as level 1, ideal for cyclists who prefer flat terrain and relaxed rides. Evenings will be spent on a luxurious barge, offering a unique and comfortable travel experience. Guided or self-guided excursions use rented ebikes.
5. Ionian Islands, Greece
The best way to discover the paradise of the Ionian Islands is by sailing and cycling between Corfu, Lefkada, and Cephalonia.
The 8-day tour takes you through spectacular landscapes, picturesque villages, and dream beaches. A charming way to discover Greek culture and traditions, as well as legendary places like Ithaca, the homeland of Odysseus. And how about the stunning nature along the mountain road leading to the viewpoint overlooking Myrtos Beach? Don’t miss the gastronomic highlights like kleftiko – slow-cooked lamb with Mediterranean aromas.
This is a journey with bike excursions ranging from moderate to challenging, through hilly and mountainous terrain, suitable for cyclists who enjoy challenges (30-50 km per day with an elevation gain of 400-700 meters).
Boat Bike Tours: a perfect bike and boat journey
These tours are organized by Boat Bike Tours, a tour operator specialized in bike holidays with accommodation on passenger ships. The company has over 30 years of experience in the sector and is continuously expanding its destinations. Thanks to its recent merger with Islandhopping.com, it now offers a wide range of itineraries in the Mediterranean, including Croatia, Greece, and Turkey.
How do Bike and Boat tours work?
The concept behind Boat Bike Tours is simple and combines the freedom of a cycling holiday with the comfort of a cruise. The ships used in the tours are floating hotels, with comfortable cabins, onboard restaurants, and relaxation spaces. Every day, after breakfast, cyclists set out to explore the chosen region, cycling through scenic landscapes, ancient villages, and postcard-like panoramic views.
This way, participants can enjoy an environmentally sustainable journey, as the tour operator strives to minimize its ecological impact through the use of non-fossil fuels, solar energy, and a more sustainable food offering on board.
Special Offers for Visitors to the Cycle Tourism Show
During the Show, visitors can take advantage of exclusive discounts
- €100 discount per person on selected tours in Croatia and Greece.
- €200 discount per person on tours in France.
- Additional €50 discount for those who sign up for the Boat Bike Tours newsletter via QR code during the Show or within the following week. The voucher will be valid for a new booking on any 2025 tour made by April 30th.
For more information: Boat Bike Tours | Islandhopping
