Self-Guided or Guided Cycling Tours – How do they differ?

Cycling is an incredible way to traverse a patchwork of different landscapes, uncover the local hotspots and hidden gems of a destination, and enjoy fresh air and the great outdoors. Cycling tours offer routes ideally curated to cover by bike and these can range from an itinerary incorporating a few leisurely rides to more challenging multi-day cycling trips, depending on your level of experience and fitness.

On many routes, travellers can choose to join a small group tour with an expert guide or opt for a self-guided holiday where the logistics are arranged, but you are on your own day to day. Generally, on self-guided cycling trips you are provided with maps and route information and your luggage is transported to your next stop each day, so you’ll find it waiting at your pre-booked accommodation. Everything else is up to you.

So, how do self-guided and guided cycling tours differ and which style of cycling holiday is right for you? Here are some things to consider.

Are your travel dates flexible?

If you are looking to take a guided tour you will need to work around the availability of specific departures. If you are flexible with your travel dates you are likely to find one that works, however, as passenger numbers are capped to small groups it is important to book early so you don’t miss out on the limited places available.

Alternatively, if you are restricted with your travel dates then it tends to be easier to find a suitable self-guided tour departure. Sometimes you can choose an itinerary and opt to set off on any given day, however, even some self-guided trips may only depart weekly to work around the schedules of the dedicated support vehicles.

How much support do you need?

Depending on your level of experience and confidence on your bike, you may prefer the added support of a guide and group accompanying you throughout your journey. On a fully supported cycling tour your guide will take care of the navigation, help with your gear, and immediately be on hand if you have any trouble with your bike or physical ability. Often a support vehicle will be available if you opt out of a section of the trail.

On a self-guided journey, you still have the support of your operator on the ground in destination, however they won’t be riding within a few metres of you. Instead you will need to contact them if you need assistance. It makes life easier if you are comfortable setting up and adjusting your own bike, experienced in fixing your own punctures and doing minor repairs should you need to. Being confident to follow route maps and directions, sometimes off the beaten path, will also help you feel at ease and enjoy your more independent exploration.

Do you like to set your own pace?

One of the things that sets a self-guided cycling trip apart is the ability to set your own pace on the trail. While you’re somewhat guided by the distance you need to cover each day to get to your next stop, the rest is up to you. You can ride hard when you feel up to it, stop to rest as you wish, and dawdle taking in the sights from handlebar height if you so desire. You can also take detours and tailor your daily ride to suit you – but you’ll have all the maps, instructions, and usually a GPS on hand to help steer you in the right direction.

If you are cycling in a group tour, you don’t have the same level of freedom. You will have a set route each day and will need to keep pace with your guide and fellow cyclists which you may find either challenging or restrictive. It is important to choose an itinerary that suits your capabilities and to prepare appropriately for your cycling trip so you can get the most out of it.

On either style, if your travel companions are more avid cyclists than you, or you’re not sure you are up for the same level of exertion, some operators do offer e-bikes on their cycling trips. If this is something that helps put your mind at ease, then ask about your options at the time of booking.

Do you have a thirst for information?

Some travellers are happy to explore new places, see the sights, and get a feel for the local life. Others prefer to delve deeper into the history and culture, and get to know each region on a whole new level. Being led by a guide on a group tour gives you access to a wealth of knowledge that you just don’t get travelling independently.

Guidebooks are great, and the self-guided tour dossiers that you are provided with are often brimming with suggestions and local recommendations, but nothing can compete with a fountain of expertise pedalling alongside you. Guides share local insights and point out things en route that you may not notice, or understand the significance of, if you are cycling independently.

On the other hand, if you are not accompanied by a guide or group, you are sometimes more likely to strike up a conversation with locals, or they with you. When you travel with a group it is easy to stay within the confines of this safety net and not have the same social interactions that you might otherwise. This comes down to your goals for the trip and whether you feel comfortable taking the lead in social interactions or whether you would prefer this to be facilitated by a guide.

Who will share your experience?

If you see your cycling holiday as a way to get into nature, enjoy some ‘me’ time or bond with the travel companions you have chosen to set off on an adventure with, then a self-guided trip might be the perfect choice.

However, if you are looking to get to know some new kindred spirits, then a guided cycling tour is the way to go. As cycling tours are operated in small groups, this provides a really pleasant social dynamic to explore new places and share new and rewarding experiences.

This can be particularly appealing for solo cyclists who may not feel comfortable heading off on the trails, which can be off the beaten track, on one’s own. Along with an added level of safety and security, a guide and group also provides a warm social atmosphere to share the journey.

Your Cycling Holiday, Your Way

Both guided and self-guided cycling holidays come in different shapes and sizes, so it is important to read the day to day itinerary and trip notes to find the right fit for you.

Whether you choose to take a small group cycling tour or a self-guided trip you are bound to enjoy your incredible cycling holiday experience. Saddle up, adventure awaits!