My dear bicycling friends,

I am Herman Hindriks, owner of Hindriks European Bicycle Tours. I run this company with a dedicated team of expert European guides and drivers.

After earning a doctorate in modern and ancient history 24 years ago, I realized that my future as a historian was not to be from a desk but from a bicycle seat. I rode through different countries, learned the local traditions, saw the historical sights first hand, experienced culture through food, drink and, best of all, exercise and the outdoors - I was soon addicted. The first bicycle trips were organized in a little northwestern European cycling paradise called Holland. With many satisfied and returning clients, our company - and our list of destinations - grew and grew. Today we cover most of Europe, including Italy, France, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Poland, Norway, Greece, Sicily and everything in between.

My European heritage and educational background enable me to create tours you won't find outside of this company. Instead of just visiting predictable tourist sights, you will see quaint villages, hidden destinations and glimpses into the little-known histories of countries. And, best of all, you'll experience views that can only be found from a bicycle seat.

Our goal is to combine recreation and sightseeing in a leisurely way. I take pride in selecting the best routes, hotels and sightseeing opportunities. And, unlike other bike companies, our prices are great.

Guided trips are all around $3000 for 10 days of active vacationing in luxurious and comfortable surroundings. This includes mostly 4-star hotels (with excellent dinners provided), airport transfers, guided bicycle routes, cultural and historical sightseeing highlights. We provide fantastic bikes - the latest Giant Aero RS1s, with 27-speed Shimano Deore and puncture-proof tires. Weighing only 24 pounds, pedalling has never been easier.

Come and try it. You will be amazed by the quality of the rides in the breathtaking countryside, the accommodations and the friendly people on these affordable European bicycle vacations.

The Portugal Trip Returns

The Alentejo area of inland Portugal is a quintessential unspoiled region. From Evora till Monsaraz, we will ride through whitewashed villages and olive grooves The trip balances bicycling with excellent local food and wine - a must for outdoor and culture enthusiasts combined.

The trip in Germany is another historical and cultural gem. Riding from Bad Mergentheim till Füssen along the Romantic Road, this route uses scenic bike paths through woods and along rivers and is punctuated with historical villages. It is a cyclist's delight. Sightseeing opportunities are abundant, from baroque churches, picturesque town squares, half-timbered houses and of course, to King Ludvig's fairy tale castle, Neuschwanstein. Mail for details

Want to Try Something Different For 2012?

How about a custom trip? Cycling adventures provide an exciting and healthy alternative for family reunions or friends hoping to see a new country in a completely different way! Check out the available destinations in the "Possible Destinations" section of our website. Custom trips can be created for any of the listed destinations with any type of service levels. If you need any more information or would like our advice, don't hesitate to contact us. If you would like to receive updates for our tours by email, just click at the link at the bottom of this page and let us know.

I look forward to seeing you on the bike,

Herman Hindriks