Frequently Asked Questions

I am worried that I need to be really fit for these holidays. What’s your advice?

Don’t worry. The cycling holidays are designed to attract people of all ages and levels of fitness. We have graded the holidays to give some indication of what’s involved. If you are not sure, give us a call.

How many miles a day can I expect to cycle?

This depends on the holiday you choose. These have been graded so you know what to expect. A gentle pace is about 7-8 miles per hour, so, if you cycle for four hours, you can expect to cover 25-30 miles comfortably. This leaves plenty of time for sightseeing, picnics, visiting castles or churches, stopping for morning coffee or whatever you want to do. You have all day to get to your next stopover, so you can relax and enjoy the countryside.

Are cycling holidays suitable for children?

Absolutely! Cycling can make an ideal family holiday, provided the right distances are chosen for the younger members of the party. We would suggest that you call us to discuss the most suitable tours for your children. In most places we are able to offer children’s bikes and child seats, if you have toddlers or babies.

I would love to go, but my other half is really not 'into' cycling. Can you help?

We do not want to be held responsible for any marital discord! But we can achieve a happy balance for you. The “Cruise and Cycle” holidays are ideal - you can cycle all day while your “other half” can stay aboard enjoying a good book while cruising. When the boat reaches its destination, then there is the opportunity for some leisurely sightseeing.

Can I book by myself?

Of course, although our prices are based on double-occupancy, so there will be a single person’s supplement applying to most of the holidays.

If I book on a holiday, will I be put in a group with any others?

A number of our holidays are guided and therefore you will most probably be cycling together. We use organisers in Europe for these holidays , therefore it is likely you will have a mix of different nationalities on the tours adding to the cultural enjoyment. On a Self-Guided holiday you will probably be on your own. If others have decided on the same route and start date, then you may be staying at the same hotels or guest-houses as others. However, every customer is provided with route details, so you ride at your own pace, stop whenever you want and decide where to go and eat in the evening. Your path might cross with other cyclists from time to time, allowing you opportunities to compare notes.

What should I do about holiday insurance?

If you choose a holiday abroad, you should have adequate insurance to cover you for medical expenses and for cancellation or curtailment of your holiday.

If you do not already have travel insurance you may wish to consider Columbus Direct one of the UK’s leading travel insurance specialists offering comprehensive cover at a competitive price. We offer discounted rates on Columbus Direct insurance which you can book on-line by clicking on the link above.

Please note that no cover is provided under the personal liability section for damage to or theft of rented equipment.

Do I need to bring money for food?

Generally, yes. All the holidays include a hearty breakfast each day. Some also include lunch and an evening meal. Where they are not included, you are free to choose where and when to eat. Some hotels will provide you with a packed lunch on request, but most people like the freedom of stopping at the place of their choice to experience the local cuisine. Some routes have been designed to incorporate gastronomic delights and will include an evening meal. Details are given with each individual tour.

What type of accommodation can I expect?

There is a variety of accommodation ranging from Castles and Chateaux to small hotels and good quality B&Bs, thereby offering a range of different priced holidays. On the Cruise and Cycle holidays the accommodation is mainly in cabins with bunk beds or low beds.

Where will I leave my car for the duration of the holiday?

In most cases you can leave your car for the duration of your holiday in the car park of the hotel used for the first night's accommodation. Where parking is not available at the first hotel, you will be advised of the alternative arrangements made for you.

How much luggage can I bring?

Your luggage is transported for you every day so bring what you need to make your holiday relaxing and comfortable. Please try and limit it to one item of luggage per person and that it is clearly labelled. On some tours there is a weight limit per item.

Do I need to bring my own bike? What type of bike should I bring?

You do not need to worry about this, as a suitable bike can be hired. However, if you would prefer to bring your own bike then by all means bring it with you, but it must be in good working order. We recommend either a hybrid or a mountain bike fitted with road tyres. If you do bring your own bike, you should insure it separately. Most household insurance policies can be extended to cover your bike whilst on holiday.

Should I bring any special clothes? Is a cycling helmet provided?

If you have cycling clothes, you will probably want to bring them with you. Padded shorts seem to be very popular and a rainproof top would be advisable. Safety helmets are strongly recommended on all Freedom Treks holidays and are a legal requirement in some countries so please bring your own helmet. As part of the holiday information pack we will provide a kit list and a catalogue of cycling accessories, should you wish to purchase any in advance.

Are there guides?

There are guides provided on some of the holidays. Their primary role is to ensure that you do not get lost but they will point out some places of interest. However do not expect them to be as knowledgeable as a qualified tour guide. They will also have some first aid skills and a basic knowledge of bike maintenance to help if you have a problem.

What happens if I break down?

You can rest assured that help is on hand should you need it. Most of our local operators can be contacted between 9.00am and 6.00pm on the number provided. If you have brought your own bike and you are unable to fix it, we will endeavour to find you a replacement for the rest of your holiday, for which you will be charged the full hire rate.

Are all the tours in this website available throughout the season?

Departure dates are shown for all tours. Please be aware that the holidays are very dependent on the availability of the selected accommodation. These have been chosen carefully, looking for a high standard to ensure you are comfortable at all times. During busy periods this is not always available, so we advise that you should book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. A number of the Cruise and Cycle holidays have limits on the group size imposed by the size of the ship/barge used, so again it is a good idea to book as early as possible.

Is it possible to extend one of the holidays from a few days to a full week?

Yes. We have the resources to design a tour to your requirements, incorporating rest days if desired, taking in places that are of interest to you. Give us a call and we will try to accommodate your wishes. The only constraint may be the availability of the accommodation.

Can you arrange flights for the overseas tours?

Flights are not included in the holidays abroad. In this age of cheap flights available on the Internet you can save money by booking direct. However we can help to point you in the right direction. We always recommend that you wait until your tour booking is confirmed before you book any flights.

Do I need a visa

Citizens of the UK do not need a visa within the European Union. Members of other countries should check visa requirements before travelling.

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