Lionheart – Venice to Paris

Tour Overview

Richard the Lionheart is remembered as an iconic hero of the English-speaking world. It is little known, however, that he didn’t speak English, hated living in England and at one stage said: “I would sell London if I could find a buyer!” Our Lionheart tour promises to provide us with some of the best riding and history yet, adventuring from Italy, into Austria, Germany and finally France.

When defeated fighting in The Crusades in the Middle East, Lionheart was returning home to France when he was shipwrecked just off Venice in 1192. It is in this stunning city where we start to follow in his footsteps. Heading north, be ready to hit some serious mountains through the spectacular Dolomites and Austrian Alps. We will ride some of the most famous passes in Europe, and on to Vienna, where Lionheart was captured.

Make your way along the banks of the Danube River, and tough it again through the Austrian Alps and Bavarian Germany. See for yourself the fortresses where Lionheart was held captive and visit a few of Europe's best castles. While being immersed in the culture of these diverse and fantastic regions, work up an appetite to experience the mouth-watering delights they offer. Then take it to another amazing level, when you hit France and ride through the vineyard-clad rolling hills of the Alsace, Burgundy and Loire, following Richard to his resting place in Fontevraud Abbey, near Tours (1.2 hrs by TGV to Paris).

This tour undeniably encompasses some of the most beautiful riding routes, scrumptious food and wine regions, and spectacular castles of Europe.

LIONHEART

VENICE TO PARIS

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Tour Leader - Sam Wood

Sam is the founder of Bike Odyssey. An archaeologist by trade, he excavated around the world for the British Museum, London before cycling historical trails to create documentaries for the BBC. He created 'On Hannibal's Trail' for the BBC in 2010. Read more about Sam here

Tour Highlights
Stage 1 - Venice -> Durnstein -> Salzburg

  • Start in Venice, Europe's most famous city of canals
  • Ride into Prosecco country, vine clad hills, beautiful Italian villas and an excellent foodies send off!
  • Ride the best of the Dolomites - the Sella Ronda, Passo Giau, Falzerago and the unforgettable San Boldo
  • Ride the lesser known but equally epic Austrian Alps including the Grossglockner, one of Europe's most challenging and best climbs!
  • Austria's Rax National Park - few ride out of it not wondering if they have ever ridden anywhere better
  • Stay in Durnstein on the Danube, where Lionheart was imprisoned, in the heart of the spectacular Wachau Region
  • Take in a palace or cathedral on your rest day in the gorgeous cities of Vienna and Salzburg (shuttle into town from hotels on the Danube and in the mountains)
  • Enjoy the best bike paths in Europe through Austria and Germany - truly exceptional riding including along the magnificent Danube, one of Europe’s best rivers
  • Stay in stunning accommodation - castles, spas, boutique hotels and local delights
  • One of our best rest day locations on any tour - The Vollererhof spectacular in every way!
Stage 2 - Salzburg -> Burgundy -> Paris

  • Explore Europe's number 1 best castle - Neuschwanstein
  • Climb to the Eagle's Nest - Hitler's retreat in the mountains, take on the Kitzhbuhler Horn and roll through Tyrol one of the most beautiful regions in Europe
  • Ride along stunning Lake Constance and through the Allgäu for amazing cycling landscapes
  • Climb through Germany's Black Forest, famous for its spas, cuckoo clocks and Grimm's fairy tales!
  • Cross from beer to wine regions as we roll into France into the stunning vineyard-clad hills of the Alsace, known for both
  • Climb the Ballon d'Alsace as our final haute categorie climb...or shirt around, the choice is yours.
  • Cruise through Burgundy along the Grands Crus Wine Route, one of France's principal and best wine-producing areas
  • Explore and admire Europe's intriguing history of castles and Chateaux in the Loire
  • Ride in Lionheart’s footsteps to Fontevraud Abbey, home to Eleanor of Aquitaine and burial place of the Plantagenets but finish by bike (new in 2020) in Paris!
Tour Dates and Prices 2025
Lionheart Tour Essentials
  • Rates are based on twin share. Single supplement = €75 per night. For Bike hire options please get in touch.
  • Please note that on all days there are alternate options both longer and shorter. Read about them here
  • For bike rental options please click here.
READ OUR GUEST'S PERSONAL LIONHEART BLOGS

We ran two Lionheart Odysseys in 2019 and we were lucky enough to have guests write blogs on each edition. Read Doug Bruce's What Becomes of the Lionhearted here (this blog also covers Doug's Tasmania Odyssey with us) and Michal Jones Lionheart Adventure.

 

Tour Accommodation

A tour which gives us an excuse to stay in castles! This sounds perfect to us. As always, we have chosen places which are authentic and unique, fortunately there are an abundance of these in the areas we cover on Lionheart. Below are a sample of the Castle, Schloss and Chateaux on offer.

Castel Brando, Veneto, Italy
Castle Hotel Bike Tour Odyssey
After rolling out of Venice and heading through stunning rolling vineyards where Prosecco is grown, this castle hotel makes the perfect rest point before heading into the Dolomites!
Schloss Prielau, Zell am See, Austria
Schloss Prielau
Schloss Prielau is located in idyllic grounds, just 200 metres from the north shore of Lake Zell. First constructed in the 15th century, since 1980, Schloss Prielau has been owned by the Porsche family!
Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud, France
Abbey hotel bike tour
The 11th century Royal Abbey is now a spectacular hotel with an amazing restaurant. It is a fitting finale to the Odyssey as is also the Plantagenets final resting place!
A massage from your soigneur?
Massage Bike tour soigneur
After a long day's ride, have your weary legs massaged back to health. A soigneur travels with us so each guest can have a massage 2-3 times a week when our groups reach 18 people.
Food and Wine

Lionheart's route promises a heavenly tour for your tastebuds. Our first week takes us from the delectable seafood of Italy's Veneto, to the hearty mountain food of Austrian's Tyrol (bacon and cheese dumplings - perfect cycling fuel!) We then head to the flatter lands of Germany where their world renowned beer will sate your well deserved thirst! Rolling into France, you will explore the exquisite food and wine these regions are famous for. The only dilemma you will face is whether you can try it all?!

Trattoria Favorita, Venice Lido, Italy
Favorita Lido Bike Tour
A historic family trattoria which pays tribute to local cuisine, especially fish and seafood, and makes a great first night on tour.
Valentin, Lake Constance, Germany
bike tour germany food
Exquisite German food, in 2019 some of our guests felt it was the best meal they had had anywhere in the world.
Chateau d'Isenbourg, Alsace,France
An amazing setting in the Alsace in a chateau overlooking the vineyards makes for a highly memorable evening!
Richard I and Saladin jousting - Bike Odyssey Cycle Tours
The History

Richard, king of England from 1189 to 1199, later known as the 'Lion Heart' was a hero to his subjects and remains an iconic figure in England today.

He was born on 8 September 1157 in Oxford, son of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. With his brothers and family he fought in the great rebellion against their father in 1173. In 1183 his brother Henry died, leaving Richard heir to the throne. Henry II wanted to give Aquitaine to his youngest son, John. Richard refused and, in 1189, joined forces with Philip II of France against his father, hounding him to a premature death in July 1189.

He possessed considerable political and military ability. However, as king, Richard's chief ambition was to join the Third Crusade, prompted by Saladin's capture of Jerusalem in 1187. To finance this, he sold sheriffdoms and other offices and in 1190 he departed for the Holy Land. In May, he reached Cyprus where he married Berengaria, daughter of the king of Navarre. Richard arrived in the Holy Land in June 1191 and Acre fell the following month. In September, his victory at Arsuf gave the crusaders possession of Joppa. Although he came close, Jerusalem, the crusade's main objective, eluded him. Moreover, fierce quarrels among the French, German and English contingents provided further troubles. After a year of stalemate, Richard made a truce with Saladin and started his journey home.

Bad weather drove him ashore near Venice and he was imprisoned by Duke Leopold of Austria in Dürnstein castle before being handed over to the German emperor Henry VI, who ransomed him for the huge sum of 150,000 marks. The raising of the ransom was a remarkable achievement which bankrupted England. In February 1194, Richard was released. He returned at once to England and was crowned for a second time, fearing that the ransom payment had compromised his independence. Yet a month later he went to Normandy, never to return. His last five years were spent in intermittent warfare against Philip II. While besieging the castle of Châlus in central France he was fatally wounded and died on 6 April 1199. He was succeeded by his younger brother John, who had spent the years of Richard's absence scheming against him.

*Image above is from a 13th-century manuscript showing an imaginary encounter between Richard the Lionheart and Saladin.

Testimonials
As a mature global travel and somewhat novice road cyclist I participated in the march2024 Tasmanian Down under trip having spent a few months in training for this  cycling Marathon . The organisers magnificently curate a route and food and hotel suppliers that are world class! Their support team of a bicycle mechanic and masseuse compliment a sublimely curated experience delivering an amazing physically arduous experience which cultivates amazing hunger and weariness . Incredible preplanning ensures every detail prior is considered and as an adventure package experience this is as good as it gets .Cycling is anything but a casual undertaking and technical care is exceeded by the very genuine care and concern that Isabel and her team show every guest !
As a first time guest and world weary traveller ; I wish Odyssey every ongoing success in delivering world class adventure.
Danny Beran, Tasmania 2024

This was my third trip with Bike Odyssey and I would give it a perfect score. The guides (Max, Francesca, Christiana and Henrick) were absolutely superb. They worked seamlessly as a team and as individuals. The riding was completely lovely and if you like to ride extra (like I do) the guides were very flexible in working with you so you could do as much or as little as you wanted. The combination of lovely riding and amazing history is unique in my experience to Bike Odyssey. Finally even though the group was fairly large (24 people) somehow the trip was done in such a way that you felt taken care of as an individual and entirely looked after. I liked every single participant on the trip, I can’t think of a single negative thing to say. PS the picnic lunches every day were a completely unexpected highlight.

Bob Goyette, Allies 2023

A personal challenge with 5 star back up. Meeting people who (I think) share a similar approach to cycling, travel and life. Your routes were fantastic, Sam. Every day slightly different. Scenery, roads and gradients constantly varied. Great riding always. Food was beyond expectations. Glutinous breakfasts, healthy lunches and stunning dinners…even for veggos! The accommodation was luxurious. Beds regenerated tired bodies overnight. Impressive swimming pools were always a bonus too. Last, but certainly not least , were the guides. Enrico’s knowledge of the countries we rode through was enlightening. It was almost embarrassing to have such a person do room service for us when we were locked down. Dario couldn’t do enough for us and what can you say about Marjolein? She is so capable and genuine. She made every one of us feel special and gave the best massages ever. I would do future tours for the guides alone! It was great having you there Sam. Loved the history and your calm approach to the day to day, no matter what.

Sarah Rawlinson, Lionheart 2022

Experiences that leave a lasting impression for me are generally ones that are aligned with my values and create an authentic connection. Bike Odyssey NZ 2022 led by Isabel and supported by Sarah and Sean in NZ and Nicky and Sam in Australia was an absolute standout. Isabel is an outstanding leader combining Intelligence, empathy and great organisational skills. To share this experience with my son Hugh has been an absolute privilege. I can’t wait to begin my next Bike odyssey adventure with Jane and your team in 2023.

Stephen Grover, New Zealand 2022

Great support, great organisation, great fun, great Sam, great everything!!!

Eric Dole, Tasmania 2022

Fantastic personalised service & continuous attention to the needs of a diverse group of clients.

Thomas Penny, Tasmania 2020

Great ride with great company and the best of meals. Bike Odyssey really look after me on these rides.

Bike Odyssey Berry Challenge Kay Sharon John
John Montagner, Berry Escape 2020

Very well organised, good route, excellent communication throughout and fabulous accommodation. Highly recommend Sam, Isabel and their support

Anthony B, Berry Escape 2020

Super professional as always, the route was stunning and challenging, loved the food all round especially the on road lunches provided by Issy!

biketour review
Paul Traynor, Berry 2020

We rode on the Bike Odyssey Under Downunder Tasmanian tour in February/March 2021. The tour was essentially a push-bike circumnavigation (more or less) of Tasmania over 3 weeks. It was fully supported with accommodation at some of Tasmania’s top hotels and a smattering of more modest accommodation at some more remote locations. Restaurants ranged from excellent fine dining to pubs with great food, again depending on the location.
The guides Sam and Issy and the masseuse, Sarah couldn’t do enough for us to help make our experience a fabulous one.
They were always encouraging when it came to the big hills. Always honest when they felt the weather or conditions were against us. And Sarah was always there to make sure the sore hard-working bodies stayed in good order.
Whilst by no means the cheapest bike riding experience holiday I believe that you get what you pay for and this is a perfect example of that.
I will continue to choose Bike Odyssey.

Roberta Bailey, Tasmania 2020

This was a great ride. It rained on the first morning, so we waited that out. And it rained on the departure day, which was irrelevant. Apart from that, it was cold generally and windy, but those discomforts were more than made up for by the scenery, food and wine. This was a hard ride — consistently, days had 1000 or more metres of climbing [with the option of more!] and an average of 100 km of rolling terrain — but thoroughly enjoyable.
Sam was an attentive and skilful jack-of-all trades and Isabel was an energetic and enthusiastic presence at all times. Between them, they served up a varied and wonderful smorgasbord of hotels, meals and drinks. They consistently accommodated the varied and idiosyncratic requests of the touring group.  The riding group consisted of people with varied life experiences and opinions, which made for interesting conversations over dinner.

Michael Webber, Tasmania 2020

I’ve been on several supported tours over the last few years and Sam is heads and shoulders above when it comes to attention to details and impeccable support for the rides.

Boon Yeo, Custom Snowys 2022

A really relaxing well organised and enjoyable trip. Sam and Isi were enthusiastic, supportive and very personable tour leaders. Would heartily recommend Bike Odyssey trips.

Ralph McConaghy, Tasmania 2021

Bike Tour was very well organised. Accommodation and meals were excellent. Riders were able to ride at own pace without hassles. Staff were very helpful, great fun and great people.

Phil B, Berry 2022

Sam Wood put together a most professional and fun custom tour of the NSW Snowies at short notice. We were treated to nourishing breakfasts, gourmet roadside lunches, and selected dinners, interspersed with a wonderful variety snacks and drinks during the rest breaks. On road support was amazing, with cue-laden GPS routes, and equal support and encouragement handed out to the fast riders, the relaxed riders, and everyone in between.
And, there was still time to set up and prepare lunch, clean up after the hungry horde, and be at the end-of-day accommodation with keys and any important information.
I would not hesitate to join one of the Bike Odyssey trips – either domestic or overseas. Nor would I hesitate have ask them to put together a custom trip for us again.

Mark McCorkindale, Custom Snowys 2022

Surpassed all expectations (and they were already high!). Sam seemed to be everywhere, conjuring up fabulous meals, shopping, repairing bikes, filling water bottles and all with a cheerful smile. Highly recommended.

Sally Collier, Custom Snowys 2022

Our recent Bike Odyssey tour of Tasmania from Hobart to Launceston was a magical experience. The organization by Isabella and Sam was impeccable and the expertise in cycling – Chris an inspiration! – and tour co-ordination evident and so professional. The routes chosen were ideal to challenge and offer wonderful views of the countryside at the same time. As a couple we were able to enjoy a cycling holiday together for the first time. Liz on an e-bike and Bill on his own roadbike brought from Brisbane. The accommodation venues arranged were all of a high quality and we certainly appreciated the remedial massages with Sarah!
We look forward to joining many future adventures with the amazing Bike Odyssey team!!

Liz and Bill Donelly, Tasmania 2022

First Class Cycling
Bike Odyssey just continues to deliver. Fully supported, flexible riding options that cater for all. Feel like knocking off early or missing that section – no worries. Want to ride further or detour a challenging climb – they just make it happen so seamlessly. Outstanding catering along the way, then overnight in luxurious accommodation with top class meals.
The l’Etape Escape weekend away was another great adventure delivered by Sam and Isabel.
Once you join the Bike Odyssey family you will realise this is the only way to cycle.

Dave and Karen Cunningham, Berry, 2020

Great week of riding and guide support. Well structured itinerary with some great stops along the way (winery, cheese factory, fish shop, famous pub etc). Suitable focus on “where is the next coffee” and great picnics.

Sam and Isabel do a great job of making the journey a pleasure.

Ivan Holyman, Tasmania 2020

THE way to see Tasmania!
We were blessed with two weeks of wonderful weather, but this must be the best way to see Tasmania! Riding pace to get around and fabulous food and accommodation to keep you fresh. I absolutely loved it, including the challenges like climbing kunyani/Mt Wellington and Jacob’s Ladder at Ben Lomond. Isabel and Sam were fantastic guides/hosts and the routes were well researched. Can’t wait to do another Bike Odyssey!

Daniel Webber, Tasmania 2021

Sam and Isi set up short breaks in Australia to relieve the tedium of the Corona virus restrictions and the Berry break we joined on our tandem proved that Bike Odyssey was able to match the quality of their customary European trips here at home. The riding was unexpectedly challenging, utilising mostly quiet roads, the weather was satisfyingly pleasant and the company, support, food and accommodation were outstanding. Just as we have come to expect from Bike Odyssey!

Phil and Joyce Ogden, Berry Escape 2022

Outstanding support & customer service

Tassie Down Under was my first Bike Odyssey and I couldn’t have been more thrilled with how it all went! Sam and Isabel leave nothing to chance, they are super organized and extremely accommodating to the varying needs of each person on tour. The support they gave us both on and off the bike was absolutely outstanding. The accommodation was high end and the meals were incredible. I’m already planning my next Bike Odyssey and it won’t be my last!

Karen Cunningham, Tasmania 2021

Sam provided support for our 7 day Snowy Mountains bike tour… day 1 I thought this was pretty good having morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea all sorted without thinking about it. As the days and k’s rolled on I reset my thinking to “how far to Sam” such was the fabulous support and treats each stop provided.

Choosing a supported bike tour is easy now, just select which Bike Odyssey trip to go on, simple!

John Broughton, Custom Snowys Tour 2022

A trip of a lifetime cycling through Spain, France & Italy – Pyrenees, Mediterranean, French Alps, iconic climbs, renowned wine regions, medieval villages and most importantly new friends from the Hannibal Odyssey.

Adrian Amelse, Hannibal 2022

A great trip all around; beautiful Tasmania countryside, well organized, excellent communication, helpful leaders (Cam for President), outstanding restaurants and mostly top-quality hotels. I especially appreciate Sam driving us two hours to the airport due to our leaving the trip early. Very kind of him.
I would eliminate Hawley House next time. Our room was in the back, smelled like dogs and the mattress was so soft and uncomfortable that I opted to sleep on the floor. The food there was excellent though.
Otherwise, a challenging, gratifying and memorable trip.

George Gardner, Tasmania 2019

Amazing way to see the world with a fantastic company. I would recommend this trip to everyone

Steve Ball, Lionheart 2019

Had the best guides on the best roads, the accommodation was second to none, navigation was spot on and the food was exceptional

Scott James, Lionheart 2019

I just did the Lionheart tour. The Bike Odyssey routes, accommodation, food and history talks – all amazing. But what made the trip outstanding was that Sam and his team went the extra mile (often literally!) to keep us safe, healthy and happy.

Dean Jackson, Lionheart 2019

Fantastic trip and fantastic attention to detail from the team. Bike Odyssey sweats the details so you can just enjoy the riding, eating and the views.

Ross Ditchfield, Lionheart 2019

The best in the business – sensational, organised and professional sums up the Bike Odyssey Team. The route planning is impeccable taking in the quiet roads and stunning scenery. Every day ends in another top class and unique accommodation with tasty regional food and wine. Nothing to think about once on the trip except the all important riding your bike.

Chris Jallard, Lionheart 2019

Outstanding scenery, accommodation and food. Everything is taken care of for you, just get on your bike and enjoy the amazing scenery and excellent roads with very little traffic.
Thanks Sam and everyone at Bike Odyssey for a truly memorable holiday.

Tony Rigney, Lionheart 2019

Extremely happy. Awesome route and on-road support, fantastic accommodation and food. As good as Hannibal which was my best overseas experience to date.

John Culity, Lionheart 2019

I booked this trip in late 2018 and even before we left in July 2019 I felt in professional hands. Bike Odyssey were heavily involved from that point right through to the trip itself in helping me get organised and answering any and all questions. Nothing was too much trouble and it made for a very smooth experience. The trip itself was simply brilliant. The team were outstanding in their organisation and care for us as riders and people and we had a lot of fun together. I always felt respected and cared for and very safe on the road with the support we had. Furthermore, our bikes and gear was well cared for, the food and accomodation was amazing and the riding routes extremely well scouted and thought through. Finally, we could always take some time out if required, which was vital on a long point to point journey. Overall, I would highly recommend Bike Odyssey and look forward to hopefully enjoying another adventure with them in future years.

Mich Jones, Lionheart 2019

Hands down the best holiday I have had. Great food and accommodation, unbelievable levels of support from the Bike Odyssey team and the ability to completely unplug for large stints each day made this an epic break.

I’ll definitely be back.

Adam Somerville, Lionheart 2019

If there was an option to rate 6 star, I would!

What an experience- there is nothing I would change. From start to finish, the location, the rides, the seamless transfers of my gear each day, the fantastic group of people riding, and the brilliant guides supporting us daily.

I cannot wait to book another tour. Yes it is the only bike tour I have done, however would be pretty certain it rates as one of the best.

Michelle Ball, Lionheart 2019

I did this trip on an ebike as I am not a cyclist. It was a tough ask but the organisation by Bike Odessey made life a lot easier. Everything was done for us other than having to pedal every day. Our route was plotted, our coffee was planned and the picnic lunches set us up perfectly for the afternoon. The guides were professional and motivating. The lead guide Max has a real gift with people and inspired us every day to do more. We had our bikes expertly maintained and our bodies too with a professional massage every few days. The entire team were fantastic.

We had amazing food, saw places we would never have known about, made new and special friendships and had experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Would I travel with Bike Odessey again? I’m already planning it.

Linda Nairn, Hannibal 2019

I enjoyed my 10 days as a non-riding partner for the stage 2 on Hannibal 2019. Whilst my husband was riding through the Alps following Hannibal’s footsteps, I was hiking to a lake, enjoying a wine tasting or two and taking part in an Italian cooking lesson. We also had time to wander through local markets and enjoy the fabulous grounds of our accommodation in Castles and Villa’s in vineyards with magnificent views! The Bike Odyssey crew are welcoming, informative and friendly, they are quite flexible with the day to day plans. I have no hesitation in recommending Bike Odyssey for the non rider, although I will definitely be riding next time on an e-bike! My husband was thrilled with his ride and is already planning the next one!

Karen Cunningham, Hannibal 2019

THE trip for serious cyclists who also appreciate life après-ride.

Bike Odyssey’s Hannibal trip has it all: challenging cycling (including the most noted climbs of France and some very spiky ascents in Italy); outstanding support; fine dining; quality accommodations.

Bruce Libin, Hannibal 2019

This was a very challenging cycling trip, riding in the Pyrenees of Spain and France, the French Alps and Apennines of Italy. If you want the best cycling Europe has to offer, this is the trip to take. Bike Odyssey provided expert support and knowledge, found super accommodations and excellent cuisine(both with their picnic lunches and tremendous restaurant choices) and new friendships created made this trip an epic experience. Look forward to my next Bike Odyssey trip!

Charles Morgan, Hannibal 2019

First tour was Tassie. Had a great time. Looking forward to doing Morocco in 2021

Mark Yates, Tasmania 2019

As inexperienced cyclists we were very capably supported throughout the wonderful Che tour, an exotic, challenging and exciting experience. Wonderful arrangements, great guides and support staff, and the ability to adapt to the different needs of the riders and local situations. They were also great at helping the group gel and work well together.

bike tour review
John Davison-Mowle, Che 2018

Having toured with Sam and team on Hannibal in 2017 we signed up again for 2019 for another custom tour. The quality of the whole experience was impressive, from the route choice on the most scenic and quiet roads to the exceptional accommodation and regional food. All being done in a relaxed way made us feel we were in safe hands.

biketour review
Paul Traynor, Hannibal Custom Tour

I did the “Che” tour from Lonquimqy to Bariloche. There is no better way to see these countries and especially the Andes. The cycling routes were sufficiently challenging and the time off the bike was also spectacular. Accommodation was frequently a destination in itself. Sam, Max, Manuel and Shane were excellent guides/hosts. They set up some awesome rides so we could have the experiences. How could I forget the last grossing on mountain bikes? It was tough but the rewards of the scenery made every pedal stroke worthwhile. The 80km lakeside route culminating in the climb of Volcan Osorno was awesome and as always was rewarded with a pisco sour. Every day exposed us to the beauties and cultures of Chile and Argentina. Great people, great challenges and countries that took me to places I’d never imagined! I’ll be lining up for another tour next year.

Sarah Rawlinson, Che 2018

Everything was done exceptionally well – from the amazing route and scenery, the scrumptious picnic lunches, the fantastic accommodation and first class evening meals.The relaxed, yet organized atmosphere that Sam and Cam created among all the riders was the cherry on the cake. This was my first tour with Bike Odyssey and I give them the highest of recommendations.

David Phelan, Tasmania 2019

An excellent experience from the first enquiry to the last day of the holiday. The routes, accommodations, picnics and the support on the road were all excellent throughout the trip. The routes well thought out and the bike I hired from them was excellent.

Bike tour review
Andrew Smith, Tasmania 2019

Sam and the Bike Odyssey team exceeded our expectations on every level. Each and every day of our first European cycle adventure delivered memories of people and places that will last a lifetime. A test of mind and body, but a rich and rewarding experience that has whet the appetite for more of the same. We’ll be back.

Michael and Louise Clifton, Lionheart 2018

Without a doubt your guides (and Sam is included), are the best I’ve had on any tour, and I’ve ridden more tours than I can count across the US, Europe and South America. Great personalities and extremely helpful. Also very accommodating to personal preferences (bananas and Cokes!). This is what will keep me coming back to Odyssey tours. Also extremely important – your willingness to let riders leave whenever they want in the morning and have the bikes out and ready to ride early — before breakfast. Much appreciated.

Wayne Riley, Lionheart 2018

Organising a custom tour in a foreign country where you are not fluent in the language can be intimidating as you are always trying to consider your groups individual needs and abilities, Getting to know Sam and then working with Bike Odyssey is so refreshing in that they were able to provide a very high end experience, while feeling like it was effortless on our end. The team was always working hard in the background to make sure our customised Hannibal adventure unfolded seamlessly and going by the feedback from our group and the sign up for Lionheart it’s clear they were effective.

Sam’s approach is calm and confident and the route choice as well as accommodation was memorable. I would highly recommend engaging Bike Odyssey as your choice.

Paul Traynor, Custom Tour 2017

Eastern Explorer Excellence!! We had such a fantastic two week custom tour with Bike Odyssey. 9 friends from Adelaide, of varying abilities, embarked on an epic 1,400kms from Görlitz on the German/Polish border, all through Poland, with a rest day in Gdańsk, ending in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. The organisation of the trip was perfect, Max and Francesca our tour leaders could not have done more for us. Great hotels, wonderful food, and great technical help from Frannie who made us all into Hammerhead converts and experts within no time at all! No more dodgy paper maps and getting lost, Hammerheads are the way forward! Literally!

Thanks Bike Odyssey for a brilliant tour, we look forward to the next one!

Hannah Schultz, Custom Tour 2018

Well, what can I say other than brilliant! Hannibal 2017 was 16 days of brilliant riding, excellent accommodation and the guides were just second to none. Sam, Max and the team are committed to ensuring that you have the trip of a lifetime, to which I did. I would recommend bike odyssey as the best cycling company to take you on an adventure through Europe and beyond! Do it!!!…..you won’t regret a single minute. Thanks Sam and team for a wonderful trip!

Amanda Copp, Hannibal 2017

The cycling routes, guides, food, wine and accommodation were all great. Such a memorable trip. I highly recommend bike odyssey

Sarah Armstrong, Hannibal 2017

Awesome Guides, fantastic accommodation, best riding ever. If you ride a bike book a holiday with these guys, you won’t regret it.

Peter Rau, Tasmania, 2019

Thank you Max for being such an excellent guide during our Hannibal Tour. Your infectious enthusiasm was invaluable and the way you supported the whole group throughout each day was fabulous. I felt very safe with you as our tour leader during the first few days and appreciate your motivating and fun loving personality from the beginning to the end of the trip. And last but not least, your Spanish mints (with accompanying jingle) each morning were vital to a good start to the day.

Megan Rigney, Hannibal 2017

I felt that all the guides and their contributions were extraordinary all went over and above to ensure that we were in the right place, their individual and team contributions were excellent as was their personal skill sets all were able to walk the talk with no trouble.

Martyn Smith, Hannibal 2017

The guides were amazing…..excellent in fact. Particular mention has to go to Mark. He is as solid and reliable and friendly as you could ever wish for. Nothing was too much for him – even with a stinking cold towards the end, he was ever present and friendly. The image of him at the top of Col Agnel in gale force words and horizontal rain, packing bikes into the trailer will stay with me for a long time.
The other guides were all excellent and genuinely could not do enough. They made the trip very easy and all we had to do was concentrate on riding our bikes.

Pat Marshall, Hannibal 2017

I was captivated from the first by the notion of historically themed epic cycling journeys, but I had no idea about the level of real support that Sam and his team was going to provide. Our journey was certainly epic in every way; the daily distances stretched me physically and we were unlucky to cop some really wet weather during the first weeks of the tour. The support really amazed me. There were days when we arrived at our destination soaked and nearly done in, but our bikes were whisked away for clean up and we were met with enthusiastic congratulations from the team and snacks and drinks for an immediate pick-me-up. This was always followed by utter relaxation in wonderful accommodation and great food. On the ride itself, the bike guides were a revelation to me. The last part of the climb to the Gotthardt was looking a bit grim until a smiling face appeared at my side and suggested a pause for a photo opportunity might just let me catch my breath. Despite being the last rider at the col who wanted to make the cold descent in the mist, companion riders and guides all encouraged me to go for it.

Dianne Batten, Lionheart 2018

Despite having had a “one in a century event” as far as the amount of rainfall is concerned (there have been record floods in this part of the world), and precipitation for 5 out of the past 6 days, everyone is still in good spirits and, if anything, the sense of a group identity is stronger than ever. This in itself is a fine testament to both Sam’s organisation and the great team he has put together to support us. And the service in making sure all our bikes are cleaned up, re-lubed, and with gears tuned each morning – often in the rain – through these days of inclement weather has been magnificent. Through it all, Sam has remained totally unfazed and this has helped us all through. With the fantastically conceived historical nature of this trip, the brilliant route and wonderful accommodation as well – not to mention Sam’s excellent historical interpretations – it’s hard to imagine a more interesting, rewarding and challenging tour.

Doug Bruce, Lionheart 2018

As a 65 yr old with 2 metal hips, I joined Sam’s very first Hannibal tour, with some appreciable trepidation. But any misgivings I might have entertained dissipated quickly. Stunning views, friendly and ever helpful guides, scrumptious local fare and excellent accommodation more than compensated for the fading grumblings of an initially reluctant body. By the 3rd day all fatigue was forgotten as I made friends with riders from very different backgrounds, learnt some useful lingo and soaked up sights, smells and history of a most interesting part of the World.

Bob Hofman, Hannibal 2016

Sam did a faultless job running the tour from the hotels to the food, the support, the hire bikes and the incredible history of Hannibal along the way, I cannot imagine how it could have been executed any better. The guides were professional, dedicated, friendly and supportive. Their experience shone through and is their greatest asset.
I already have my next epic tour planned, and it wont be the last.

Jason Langer

The Hannibal Expedition has been the major riding highlight of my 20-year riding career. The scenery, food wine and accommodation were something I have no hesitation in recommending. For me, the greatest plus was achieving the challenge the Hannibal Expedition’s thoughtfully crafted route provides. Plenty of personal challenge, in beautiful and historic countries, with almost no traffic. What more could you ask for.

Stephen Seymour

The guides? What a team! On and off the bike the guys could not have been better. Their focus was on ensuring that everyone was safe and enjoying themselves. Nothing seemed to be too much trouble. They handled sometimes difficult situations , with grace, and good humour. And as an added bonus Mark and Dirk’s photography is simply stunning. So I’ve done 2 epic trips now, thoroughly indulged and enjoyed myself both times.

Sharon Watson

Max, Sam and Mark, what a trip! The finest food and wine from France, the best roads of Germany, Polish castles, new age Baltic states, and behind the romance of Russia. We did more than follow Napoleon’s footsteps, we opened up a new world. My life is enriched because of the 2015 Napoleon tour.

James Sulzburger

Sam, a fan​tastic tour for the adventurous with the usual epic adventure standards – well researched, great accommodation and meals and the best of guides and support. This tour has a variety of landscapes, terrain, cultures and is filled with history both ancient and modern.  There wasn’t a day when I thought I’d prefer to be somewhere else.

Kay Jacob

Sam, Max, and Mark, thanks guys, in your role as tour operators and guides your professionalism, work rate, attention to detail and commitment was second to none.

 

 

Gary Powell

Sam, your team did a magnificent job in the planning & executing of this tour – the castles, chateaux, monasteries & mansions we stayed in were amazing ( who could forget Ziggy?)!

Ruth Kerr

What an amazing holiday! You can eat and drink as much as you like and you still go home fitter and trimmer than when you left! Wait till Woman’s Weekly or Cosmo hear about this holiday! You guys’ll be booked solid till early retirement. This was undoubtedly the best long weekend of my life so far. I’ll be back next year for at the very least a full stage, if not more! My legs look forward to cashing this cheque which my hand is currently writing!

Will Wetherall

The guides on the Hannibal Expedition were excellent. They are excellent organisers, who think ahead, and are always looking to make the best possible experience for the riders, whether this be making sure the bikes are in top condition, or the picnics lunch is in “the spot”, or the evening meal is an experience to remember. The guides are happy to answer to questions on the route, and change things as weather or circumstance require. Sam’s historical knowledge and has willingness to share this knowledge really added to the trip.
I am very much looking forward to riding with them again.

Stephen Seymour

This was by far the most fun I have had on a bike. It was a pretty stern physical test for me, and thus perfect. I eyed off the van once or twice but never had to get in it. Lovely places and lovely routes that you would never find by yourself, and all fully supported.

Ted Robinson

Hannibal Barca, the wily Carthaginian General, was a fine strategist and leader. His attempt to conquer Rome by taking war elephants across the Alps was a real feat. If you wish to ride across the Alps, in fine style, without the support of war elephants, then you should sign up for this tour. They are great operators and their tour is first class.

Roddy Johnson

It is a rare thing to experience something that changes your perspective on life permanently, even more rare when that something is a choice, and not a challenge that life has forced upon you.
The Hannibal Tour did just that, it changed my perspective on life. I started the tour with very high expectations, to see the best of Europe, to make friends, to challenge myself physically. What it achieved was well beyond this. The Hannibal Tour covered some of the most extraordinary landscape I will ever see, including times when I truly was on top of the world. Meeting the physical challenge of 26 days of cycling when I have never in my life before been a cyclist has left me with an incredible belief that anything is possible in life. I have made lifelong friends from across the globe. On this tour, I felt more alive than I had since I was a kid. We all laughed hard, ate and drank like kings, and at the top of the Alps I cried with joy. And all this, from the seat of a bicycle.

Jason Langer

Sam had obviously put a lot of time and effort into researching and organising the Hannibal Epic. The detail in the planning is obvious from the start and resulted in a magnificent experience every day. The hotels, restaurants, routes, lunch stops including several picnics, coffee breaks and extras such as wine tastings and farmhouse meals were superb. An added feature of their tours is the historical aspect which was regularly explained to us in regard to our location. I feel very lucky to have found this tour and to have been able to participate as it was challenging, unforgettable and a great opportunity to meet other like minded cyclists and create new friendships. It was hard coming home after such a unique experience. Thank you Sam.

Kay Jacob

To go on a trip that has congruency with the challenge of the ride -the epic and the history, gastronomy, the culture, the landscapes and to provide such intelligent support is amazing . I loved it, felt challenged, gave myself to the whole experience and have no criticisms, just grateful for a marvellous trip.

Bernadette Redfern

The 25 days I spent on the road with Sam was the best month I have had in my life. To be able to travel through Spain, France and Italy, and to see, do, eat and enjoy so much, was a real privilege. Sam eliminates any stress that may come with such a huge undertaking. Really, all you have to do is keep pedalling and not lose control of your bike when you pinch yourself to check you are not actually dreaming.

Felix Lowe
See all our testimonials
Some Light Reading
GILLINGHAM
Richard the Lionheart Bike Tour
Professor of Medieval History at the London School of Economics and Political Science,  Gillingham is renowned as an expert on the Angevin empire.
PENMAN
Penman Bike Tour
A very popular read, the first of two books about Lionheart's life. The second is called "A King's Ransom".
MANSON
Chris Mannson Lionheart bike tour
At Oxford University, Manson read history, specialising in The Crusades: he brings this and Lionheart to life in this riveting novel.
JONES
Dan Jones Bike Tour
English writer, historian and journalist, Jones sets the scene dramatically for Richard's Plantaganet Reign. 
McLYNN
Mclynn Bike Tour
Wonderfully readable, McLynn delves into what part Lionheart played in The Crusades and what the Plantagenets were really like.