Why should I choose an active gourmet adventure ?

We do things in style while still providing excellent value Our approach will help transform your travel experiences!

How are the active gourmet tours different?

All our tours involve activity - cycling, walking, golf, canoeing, even fishing. As well, we focus on savouring all the great experiences a region has to offer, especially those involving food and wine.
We meander off-road, along riverside paths, through forests and vineyards, pausing to smell the flowers, peruse antiques in the village market, absorb the music in the ancient church.....

What happens to my luggage?

Your luggage is transferred in our 'mothership' van. This means you can safely take a range of clothing. No hefty panniers or backpacks for us! With the van never far away, you are able to transport purchases made in local and markets & stores.

Where do we stay overnight?

We stay in quality accommodation handpicked to reflect the character and history of each region. There's quite a variety - chateaux, paradores, manor houses, rural farmhouses, and barns - even the occasional cave-hotel. We usually stay 2 to 3 nights, exploring the local area from our base. Without exception, our hosts are interesting and hospitable people - and they are interested in us too.

What about meals?

The regions we visit are renowned for the fine produce, cuisine, and wines. Most evenings we dine in carefully-selected restaurants. Our aim - truly memorable food experiences. At lunch, enjoy wonderful picnic foods, often selected from the local markets, or eat al fresco at country cafés. The majority of meals are included in the tour price, but occasionally you'll be free to 'follow your nose' to choose your own.

How fit do I have to be?

You don't need to be a finely tuned athlete - but a reasonable level of fitness is certainly advantageous. Remember, we cater for both walkers and cyclists Compulsory - a sense of adventure!

If I choose the cycling option, do I have to ride far?

No, usually no more than 45 kilometres a day - unless you want to. We have the support 'mothership' on hand for when you feel like a break or even a full day off. We offer a choice of routes or you might choose to follow the walking option from time to time. We do take frequent breaks to admire the view, visit interesting places and people - and for food!

My partner wants to cycle but I don’t.

Our mothership is available as are interesting walking options.

I am a keen cyclist and want to do more!

Longer and more demanding routes are available as required.

I am travelling alone. Will I feel "left out"?

Certainly not! Our tour groups are made up of individuals, couples, friends. We cater for people with a variety of interests and energy levels so that it's an exhilarating experience for everyone. You can truly look forward to the most enjoyable holiday of your life!

How much gear do I have to carry?

Very little. Camera and film, some cash, a light rain-proof jacket, and your active gourmet water bottle.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Our tours are timed for the most settled weather periods - but we can't guarantee sunshine everyday! If it does rain, we usually keep going. If it turns vile, we could be forced to take shelter in a little bar or café or take time off to do some under cover sight seeing or shopping.

What's included in the price of the tour?

All accommodation/all breakfasts/most evening meals and lunches/guides/admission to some special events/support vehicle (our mothership)/luggage transfer/active gourmet hat and water bottle.
Excluded entry charges (you choose!)/some lunches and evening meals/gratuities/items of a personal nature such as phone, fax, email, laundry, and bike hire.

Can I vary the length of the trip?

You can join our tour (usually 12 nights) for a shorter time or we can personalise an itinerary for your extended stay.

I'm not really a 'group' sort of person...

In that case, let us design an active gourmet self-led adventure just for you, family or friends. Transport can be by car, on foot, by bike, by train, on a canal boat, or any combination you prefer.

Do you have information on tours other than those in
the active gourmet portfolio?

We have a database of active holidays from companies in all parts of the world, and will be delighted to help you select a suitable package.

What other activities are available?

We can arrange your winter skiing holiday, golfing excursions, and cooking or language schools. Your travel can be arranged to coincide with, for example, a tennis grand slam event, or the opera season in Verona…