Penticton Herald

Cycle all day, cruise all night

Combine the excitement of an active holiday experience with the comfort and amenities of a river cruise

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Bike-and-barge holidays are gaining popularity with couples, families and groups of friends looking for an active and unique European trip.

Similar to land-based cycling tours, bikeand-barge tours take you cycling through incredible landscapes and sights.

The difference is that at the end of the day, your barge — a lovely, passenger ship — awaits you. The barge provides comfortabl­e accommodat­ion and excellent food in a small group setting.

Imagine unpacking just once, but cycling somewhere different each day through small villages and historical cities experienci­ng stunning, ever-changing views.

This is one of the great joys of a bike-and barge holiday. THE WATERWAYS OF EUROPE The waterways of Europe have played an integral part of the continent’s history. Used for setting up boundaries, drawing communitie­s together, finding sustenance and nourishmen­t and even conquering lands — these waters have been travelled since the time of the Roman Empire.

The Rhine was one of the most important transport routes and the Danube was once the northernmo­st border of the Roman Empire.

Today, you can still see remnants of these civilizati­ons on the riverbanks.

The ability to experience countries on both land and water creates a more profound experience. EXPLORE When the barge docks, hop onto your bike and explore the castles of the Loire Valley or the Burgundy’s vineyards in France.

Experience the start of Holland’s tulip festival, or cycle from Amsterdam to Bruges.

Cycle through four countries along the Danube and experience the impressive cities of Belgrade, Vienna and Budapest.

Discover Germany’s Rhine Valley, Moselle vineyards and the celebrated capital of Berlin in a style that both relaxes and challenges you.

For many, staying on a small boat is the biggest appeal of a bike and barge tour. Because of the close quarters and smaller group size, there are great opportunit­ies to meet and cycle with other like-minded travelers from around the world.

Bike and barge holiday is meant for all levels of cyclists.

Travellers have the choice between convention­al and electric bicycles (e-bikes).

E-bikes give riders the confidence to jump on board, with the touch of a button it provides the boost needed to keep the pace.

Furthermor­e, those who don’t want to cycle everyday can spend time on the barge while it sails to the next port. JOIN TODAY Bike and barge is a unique way to explore Europe at handlebar level with the benefit of unpacking just once while exploring numerous European gems.

U Tracks offers more than 30 bike-and barge holidays across Europe.

Due to the increasing popularity of this style of travel and the limited number of cabins, these active holidays sell out quickly, so plan yours today.

 ?? Special to The Okanagan Weekend ?? Biking and barging is becoming a popular way to have sun and see the hot and the laid-back spots of Europe.
Special to The Okanagan Weekend Biking and barging is becoming a popular way to have sun and see the hot and the laid-back spots of Europe.
 ?? Special to The Okanagan Weekend ??
Special to The Okanagan Weekend

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