Why Eric Loves Self-Guided Biking

Published on September 30, 2019

Eric, a senior VBT staff member, recently took his family on our Portugal: Porto, the Silver Coast & Lisbon Self-Guided Biking Vacation. Here’s what he has to say about our newest travel style.

There’s Something for Everyone

Planning a vacation for a family of five can be an adventure in itself. A Self-Guided Biking Vacation includes the perfect balance of structure and free time, so everyone has the opportunity to travel their way. The Road Book with detailed route notes provides a backbone for the day, while also offering opportunities for family members to break off and explore their own interests.

A True Active Vacation

For an active family, a vacation that incorporates fitness is key. Eric’s family felt good about what they achieved each day, while also finding time to truly relax and unwind. In addition to the miles they logged on their bikes, they fit in some other favorite leisure activities.

Room for Spontaneity

Every day on a Self-Guided Biking Vacation offers opportunities to choose your own adventure. Whether to ride at a leisurely pace with lots of stops or continue briskly to the final destination, when and where to stop for snacks and meals, who to ride with—there are endless opportunities to tailor each day. The Ride with GPS navigation app makes it easy to leave the route for a spontaneous excursion—Eric’s family often pulled off the route for an impromptu swim, and even found an ancient church hidden off the road that they stopped to explore.

Luggage Transport

On a Self-Guided Biking Vacation, we handle all of the logistics. While Eric’s family was out riding, their luggage was being whisked away to their next hotel. Each person packed only what they needed for the day in their bike bags, giving them the freedom and ease of traveling light.

Airfare and More

With Self-Guided Air+, additional hotel nights before and after the tour are included. For Eric’s family, this meant extra time exploring the cities of Porto and Lisbon before and after heading to the coast and discovering more rural areas. They felt like they touched upon every aspect of the country and culture and got to see more of their destination.