We want your active holiday to be as pleasurable as possible, so it’s important to choose the right trip to suit your cycling ability and fitness level. This is why we have our honest Trip Grading system so you can enjoy a comfortable, safe and rewarding bike holiday.

All of our cycling trips are graded from Introductory (3) to Challenging (7), based on the 1-10 scale used by World Expeditions. The grade is determined according to trip length, landscape, gradient, rest days and traveller feedback.

Also, there are detailed notes available online which outline trip-specific terrain, fitness preparation suggestions and provide extra information on our cycling departures. Note that on a self guided trip you determine the pace and schedule. If you would like to speak with someone about choosing the right bike trip for you, please contact us.

Grade 3 - Introductory Cycling Trips

Example description: An introductory cycling trip involves several days of cycling on a sealed trail surface. Some days are over mostly flat terrain with a few gentle climbs. Daily cycling distance varies from 25km to 45km. 

Level of fitness: You will need to be in good health and be a confident and capable cyclist.

Grade 4 - Introductory To Moderate Cycling Trips

Example description: An introductory to moderate cycling trip involves several days of cycling on a mix of bike paths and quiet roads, with some short, unavoidable sections where you will cycle along the highway. Some days are over mostly flat terrain with a few gentle climbs. Daily cycling distance varies from 27 - 45 km or 3 - 5 hours.

Level of fitness: You will need to be in good health and be a confident and capable cyclist.

Grade 5 - Moderate Cycling Trips

Example description: A moderate cycling trip involves several days of cycling on a mix of bike paths and quiet roads, with some short, unavoidable sections where you will cycle along the highway. There is not much in the way of technical riding. Some days are over mostly flat terrain with a few gentle climbs. Daily cycling distance varies from 27 - 58 km or 3 - 6 hours, with the amount of time in the saddle the greatest challenge for 'non-riders'.

Level of fitness: You will need to be in good health and be a very confident and capable cyclist.

Grade 6 - Moderate to Challenging Cycling Trips

Example description: A moderate to challenging cycling trip involves several days of cycling on a mix of mountainous terrain, bike paths and quiet roads. You will need to be comfortable and confident cycling on the road and expect gradients of 1-3%, with some steeper ascents and descents. Daily cycling distance varies from 37 - 58 km or 5 - 7 hours, with the amount of time in the saddle the greatest challenge for 'non-riders'.

Level of fitness: You will need to be in excellent health and be a very confident and capable cyclist.  If you use an electric bike, the grading on moderate to challenging trips is reduced to moderate.

Grade 7 - Challenging Cycling Trips

Example description: A challenging cycling trip involves several days of cycling on a mix of mountainous terrain, bike paths and quiet roads. You will need to be comfortable and confident cycling on the road and expect gradients of 1-3%, with steeper ascents and descents at times. Daily cycling distance varies from 37 - 58 km or 5 - 7 hours, with the amount of time in the saddle the greatest challenge for 'non-riders'.

Level of fitness: You will need to be in excellent health and be a very confident and capable cyclist.  If you use an electric bike, the grading on moderate to challenging trips is reduced to moderate.