VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations vs Cycle Catalan - Tour Companies Compared

VBT Bicycling and Walking offers cycling and walking vacations around the world. The company was established over 40 years ago, so has lots of experience serving active travelers. It is based in Vermont, USA. It also promises lower prices than other cycling tour companies without sacrificing quality. Most everything is included in the price, except for a few meals -- and that includes use of a customized bike on cycling tours or walking poles on walking tours, and special packages including international airfare.

What Makes Them Stand Out?

VBT is all about value. They offer many standard inclusions that some other tour operators do not, such as meals, airport transfers, and a special 5% ‘credit’ to use on a future VBT tour. They are also cycling and walking specialists, with tons of experience leading groups all over the world.

Who Travels With Them?

VBT attracts active travelers of all ages, but tend to focus on the adult 50+ market. As they are located in the US, groups are frequently comprised of American travelers. Focusing on value means you will likely travel with a group of like-minded companions who are more concerned with seeing the sights and breaking a bit of a sweat, than dining at the fanciest restaurants.

Where Do They Operate?

VBT sells tours that explore six continents. Some of their most well-known and sought after destinations include Italy, New Zealand, and France. More exotic cycling and walking tours can be found in Peru and Vietnam.

Why Travel with Them?

Both cyclists and walkers travel at their own pace during the day, but local trip leaders and support vans are always available, and some guided sightseeing is included. Trips are rated easy to moderate -- nothing too strenuous -- and walking or biking is usually limited to two to six hours a day. Routes and custom maps are all planned out. Another great feature on some trips is the use of e-bikes - bikes with an electronic assist to help you power up any hills you might encounter on the route. Overall, VBT has been doing these types of tours for more than 40 years, and they seem to have it down to a science.

For almost a decade, Cycle Catalan has offered unique itineraries for seeing the Catalonia regions in northeastern Spain.

What Makes Them Stand Out?

They craft itineraries for cycling and walking tours throughout the beautiful nature and towns of Catalonia. Apart from small group guided cycling tours, they also are well known for providing self-guided and independent cycle options. Group tours have a max of 20 people and minimum of 8. Multiple types of package are available, catering to all different types of traveler, but they all encompass the warmth of Catalonian culture.

Who Travels With Them?

Their cycling trips are well suited to active travelers. Most itineraries are not strenuous and are enjoyed by older travelers as well as young and middle aged. They can and do accommodate singles, couples, and small groups. Private group options are also available.

Where Do They Operate?

Trips are centered in the Catalonia region of northeast Spain. This encompasses Barcelona, as well as a number of small towns, both of which exhibit the same vibrant culture, unique cuisine, and historic background.

Why Travel With Them?

Their motto is “don't just be a tourist, be our guest". With this philosophy, they plan each itinerary to have a local and cultural feel from start to finish. They spend a lot of time in researching an area and making sure every detail is taken care of from hotels to restaurants. You can rest assured every route has been thoroughly ridden and checked before you travel! Prepare to learn about Catalonia, enjoy delicious food, be active, explore, and also have some leisure time to wander through markets and festivals. It’s the best way to see Catalonia for active travelers looking for a small group travel experience.