The Natural Adventure Company
Leading experts in arranging self guided (independent) walking and cycling adventure holidays as well as small group and privately guided treks.
The Natural Adventure Company are dedicated to offering unforgettable adventure holidays that place customers at the heart of a diverse selection of outstanding natural environments, and in providing the opportunities to soak up the culture and history of whichever destination they choose.
The company was founded in 2009. When Peter Duncan took up a friend’s invitation to make his first visit to Southeast Europe and Bulgaria, he was faced with an abundance of surprises. He happily admits, “Whilst I had visited many other regions of the world, this was a part of Europe, almost on my doorstep, which I knew so little about”.
Starting with developing a couple of self guided walking itineraries in Bulgaria, gradually adding more countries in the Balkan region, now we are among the leading experts in arranging self guided walking and cycling holidays throughout Europe – and beyond. Having offices in London, Dublin and Sofia, we have become a truly international company, able to serve our customers anywhere in the world.
Cycling Brittany: Tregor and the Pink Granite Coast
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
France
7 days (Bike: 7 days)
245 km (~35km per day)
Leisure
Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
We invite you on a coastal bike trip, from Saint Brieuc to Morlaix, to discover the riches of northern Brittany.
Arguably one of the most beautiful coastlines in France, the Pink Granite Coast stretches between Trebeurden and Perros Guirec. Carved out by the mighty force of the sea, the coastline is full of sculpted creeks and bays, such as Ploumanac’h, a chaotic mass of pink granite boulders. Cycling along quiet roads through the heart of the Breton countryside, you will discover the town of Morlaix, at the western end of the Trégor, and much more.
Highlights
The Pink Granite Coast, one of most beautiful coastlines in France
The Ploumanac’h lighthouse
The magical Ile de Brehat
The wonderful atmosphere of Brittany, from the seat of a bicycle
Cycling in North Macedonia and Albania
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
Albania & North Macedonia
11 days (Bike: 8 days)
484 km (~61km per day)
Active
Some hills, Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
North Macedonia and Albania are some of the least explored countries in Europe, abundant in natural landscapes and steeped in history.
On this unique self guided cycling itinerary, you will ride through the very best of Europe’s beautiful unknown. This is a picturesque land of snow-capped peaks, translucent lakes and pristine national parks, dotted with ancient monasteries, medieval villages, and the Greco-Roman and Ottoman architectural legacies empires. You will take in the region’s genuine subsistence culture and enjoy a friendly welcome by your local hosts.
This cycling trip will take you through rolling hills and beautiful lakes, such as lake Ohrid (Europe’s oldest) and Lake Prespa, connected by underground waters flowing beneath the Galichitza mountain. Apart from the amazing natural landscapes, you will be able to enjoy the delicious local food, get to know the friendly local people as well as explore the many sites related to the history of the region, from the medieval monasteries of North Macedonia to the bunkers of Enver Hoxha’ Albania.
The tour is ideal for the active and curious travellers who like to combine an enjoyable and rewarding physical activity with an exciting exploration of a region full of history and authentic local culture. In case you would like to enrich your experience, you might also consider adding a guide (available upon request) who will give you valuable insights on the region’s history and culture and take care of your bikes in case of need.
Highlights
The historical town of Ohrid and the Lake Ohrid, both UNESCO-listed
Lake Prespa, home to numerous endemic species
Spending an overnight at St. Naum Monastery
Cycling on winding roads, surrounded by amazing landscapes
Crossing Galichitza mountain, and enjoying the great views over the two landmark lakes
The Ciro Cycling Trail: Sarajevo to Dubrovnik
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
Croatia
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
353 km (~59km per day)
Active
On-road
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
The scenic Ciro Trail is a unique bicycle route opened in 2017 that runs through the Dinaric Alps between Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Dubrovnik in Croatia.
The cycle track follows the old Austro-Hungarian railway line built in the 1900s and closed in the 1970s. The trail is often described as an “open-air museum” because it passes through enchanting abandoned towns and the beautiful Vjetrenica caves.
The Central Dinaric Alps have been a natural border between the coastal towns of the Adriatic and highland trading cities and settlements along the Ottoman caravan routes to Istanbul. This is a moderate-grade self guided cycling tour on dedicated gravel cycle paths, secondary asphalt roads and some dirt roads. The trip is suitable for those interested in finding out more about the diverse cultural background of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and the Western Balkans.
The trail will take you deep into the mountains, passing small isolated settlements where the way of life has remained unchanged for centuries. Both on and off the bikes, you have an opportunity to explore the unique cultural heritage of the region. Some of the hotels along the route are made from converted railway stations, and other attractions include The Old Bridge in Mostar, the Roman ruins of Mogorjelo, the Orthodox Church in Zitomislici and the Nature Park Hutovo Blato.
Highlights
Explore the tumultuous history of Sarajevo
Ride over Bjelasnica, the 1984 Olympic mountain range
Swim in Boracko Glacial Lake
Walk over the Mostar Old Bridge
Explore the wine routes of Herzegovina
Ride along the Ciro Austro Hungarian narrow-gauge railway
Zavala Orthodox monastery
Vjetrenica Cave
Cross the rugged Dinaric Alps
Take in Dubrovnik Old Town
Swim in the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea
San Gimignano & Volterra Cycling Break
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
Italy
5 days (Bike: 3 days)
132 km (~44km per day)
Active
Mixed on/off-road, Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
£ 430
Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
Ride under the Tuscan sun
You will pedal through the heart of Tuscany on quiet cypress-lined country roads past sunflower fields, olive groves and vineyards, producing some of the world’s finest olive oil and wine. San Gimignano is a treasure on the hill and a jewel of Tuscany, wonderful for cycling and exploring on a short 5-day active holiday. With its thirteen outstanding medieval towers, it is on the UNESCO world heritage list. You will spend the second part of the trip in the former Etruscan centre of Volterra, a unique hilltop town with its own history and charisma. To add up to this purely Italian experience, you will be able to enjoy the outstanding local cuisine fully.
Highlights
Visit the natural, artistic, and cultural treasures of the hamlet of San Gimignano, a UNESCO heritage site
Discover the rich Etruscan past of remote Volterra with its Roman theatre, Palazzo dei Priori, and alabaster handicraft
Wonderful landscapes, wide-open fields, cypress-lined alleys, vineyards and olive groves
Incredibly well preserved Medieval and Renaissance villages, and quaint hill-top towns
Peaceful country roads, friendly Tuscans and delicious regional culinary specialities
Provence and Camargue Bike & Boat Adventure
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
France
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
270 km (~45km per day)
Leisure
Semi-Supported
Prices from
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
Our Provence and Camargue Bike & Boat Adventure is a wonderful tour starting in the wild Camargue nature with its bulls and horses.
From the medieval fortress of Aigues Mortes, you’ll cycle gradually towards Arles. After that, you’ll enjoy the typical Provence landscape, including the Rhone Valley, Van Gogh’s Provence, and the Roman Pont du Gard.
This tour offers the chance to choose between pedalling on your own or with the whole group, following a tour leader. When booking the tour you need to specify which option you prefer. If you want to cycle independently, you are free to do it by following our instructions and App, included in the package. In case of an emergency, you can contact the tour leader over the phone. If you change your mind during the week and you want to join the guided tour, you just need to inform the tour leader the evening before. If you choose the guided option, the tour leader will be always present during breakfast and dinner and will cycle every day with you.
The programme has been planned to feature navigation along the Rhone River and Rhone-Sète Canal. Due to organisational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday. Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles such as officially ordered (previously not announced) repair work on locks or bridges can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays and may even request a transfer by bus.
Cycling the Magical Valleys of the Périgord
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
France
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
300 km (~50km per day)
Leisure
Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
Riding along the Dordogne and Vézère Rivers, you will discover the heritage and beautiful countryside of the Périgord Noir.
Quiet backroads and tracks take you through majestic forests and meadows, leading to exceptional monuments and buildings, most notably the castles of Commarque, Puymartin and Beynac. Each village has a unique character and specific local flavour, inviting you to explore the winding streets that take you on a journey back in time. The famous Périgord gastronomy adds an important ingredient to this wonderful circuit.
This is a centre-based cycling holiday, suitable to both beginner and intermediate cyclists, wanting to have an in-depth experience of an authentic corner of France. You will conveniently stay in the same accommodation all week, but ride a different itinerary each day. The Périgord is particularly well suited to this type of tour, as its cultural and natural attractions are concentrated in a relatively small area. Our accommodation is in the heart of the Périgord and also offers a number of off-the-bike activities.
Highlights
Beautiful scenery, exceptional heritage, and delicious cuisine
Gentle rolling hills, offering a relaxed itinerary
The same accommodation all week, ideally located, offering comfort and flexibility
Cycling the Pearls of Provence
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
France
6 days (Bike: 6 days)
250 km (~42km per day)
Leisure
Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
What better way to explore the heart of Provence than on a bike?
From bustling Avignon and the Palais des Papes, you will cross lush orchards and wine estates including the famous Châteauneuf du Pape, Gigondas and Beaumes de Venise. Your route offers you breathtaking views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and the majestic Mont Ventoux. A network of quiet roads with little traffic takes you from village to village as you discover the local architecture and cultural heritage. Further south, you reach the white rocks of the Parc des Alpilles before heading towards the medieval perched city of Les Baux de Provence, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. To finish the week, you gently descend to the ancient city of Arles, whose historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The routes are gentle and accessible for beginners, and each day provides an opportunity for additional cycling, so the tour is suitable for intermediates as well.
Highlights
Riding on quiet back roads through vineyards, orchards and olive groves, with the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Mont Ventoux as a backdrop
The towns and villages of Provence, with their exceptional cultural, historical and architectural heritage
Discovering the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf du Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Beaumes de Venise
Crossing the Parc Naturel des Alpilles and Les Baux-de-Provence
Cycling in Portugal's Lima Valley
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
Portugal
8 days (Bike: 5 days)
158 km (~32km per day)
Easy
Mostly flat
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
While it's the River Minho that gives the region its name, it's another river, Lima, which arguably bears the true spirit and authenticity of Minho.
From the foothills of the Peneda-Gerês mountain to the Viana do Castelo, where the river meets the sea, this self guided cycling itinerary will reveal you the many ancient towns and Romanesque churches dotting the pristine Lima Valley, where you will have the chance to meet the local warm-hearted people and taste some great food and wines. You will explore the many minor roads along the north and south sides of the river, connecting a cluster of peaceful little settlements preserving the local culture and a proud sense of tradition, as well as the crown jewels of the Minho: Ponte de Lima, known for its vibrant market and historic centre, and Viana do Castelo with its pearly white, neo-Byzantine Santa Luzia church.
Based in three comfortable hotels, this tour is accessible and suitable for beginner and expert cyclists looking for a mix of adventure and cultural exploration and families looking to have some great time together amid beautiful unspoiled nature.
Cycling the Lithuanian Seaside
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
Lithuania
8 days (Bike: 5 days)
240 km (~48km per day)
Leisure
Cycle paths/trails, Mostly flat, Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
Being the southernmost of the Baltic states, Lithuania offers great opportunities for a cycling adventure in a less-known region, still full of authentic culture and local character.
Explore the sand dunes of Palanga and the Curonian Spit National Park, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and experience traditional Lithuanian country life when cycling in the Nemunas River Delta region. This tour partly covers the Seaside Cycle Route which was the first officially signposted, high-quality cycle route in Lithuania opened a decade ago.
The tour begins & ends in the historic coastal town of Klaipeda which boasts a rich, turbulent history from the 13th century. You also spend two nights in Nida, the largest settlement on the Curonian Spit. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing seaside break or explore on foot, by cycle or canoe its unique surroundings, geology, birdlife etc. If you prefer to focus on cycling and experience something special, you can also make a return bike trip to the Russian part of the Curonian Spit.
Highlights
The Resort Town of Palanga
The Historic Town of Švėkšna
Nemunas River Delta Regional park
Curonian Spit National Park
The Resort Town of Nida
Cycling the Flemish Beers Route
Tour Operator: The Natural Adventure Company
Belgium & Netherlands
8 days (Bike: 6 days)
373 km (~62km per day)
Active
Mostly flat, Quiet roads
Self-Guided
Semi-Supported
Prices from
Self-Guided
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Overview
Tour Operator The Natural Adventure Company
Belgium is known all over the world for its beer-brewing craft and traditions dating back to the Middle Ages.
Today there are over 200 breweries in operation, producing beers ranging from refreshing white ale to bolder triples and quadruples. We invite you on a cycling adventure that will reveal you the origins of several of Belgium’s best beers while enjoying the lovely surroundings they come from.
You will cycle through the woody Campine region, past the famous Achelse Kluis abbey, crossing the border into the Dutch province of Noord Brabant. Next, you will explore Turnhout. In the city of Antwerp, a visit to De Koninck Brewery should not be missed. Finally, the university town of Leuven always lives up to its reputation as a welcoming, friendly place.
Highlights:
Discover the origins of several of Belgium’s best beers
The famous Achelse Kluis abbey
Explore Turnhout
Enjoy the university town of Leuven