I just returned from a VBT cycling trip, and while the cycling routes and views were absolutely stunning, the hotel accommodations were some of the worst I’ve ever experienced on a group trip. The first two hotels were dirty, poorly maintained, and nowhere near the “4-star” standard advertised. Linens were stained, bathrooms smelled of sewage or urine, drains were clogged, and even the pools had visible mold. These properties were closer to budget motels than quality hotels, and the going nightly rates were a fraction of what we paid through VBT. By the time we reached the third hotel, which was finally nice, it felt like an insult that we only got one night there after five nights of subpar conditions. Other travelers in our group felt the same way and were equally disappointed. The cycling itself was fantastic, but the accommodations were a huge letdown and made the trip feel like a poor value. Unless VBT seriously improves the quality of its hotel partners, I would not travel with them again.
Croatia
Great Views
Alexi, Washington DC
Croatia: The Dalmatian Coast, Korčula & Dubrovnik
Self guided bike tour, Croatia
I don’t even know where to begin to review our time on our self guided bike tour in Croatia. This was our first go at a self guided ride and it could not have gone better first of all our guide Andrej, was excellent. He was right where he should be at every moment, when not with us, he answered any questions we had. He is knowledgeable of the area and especially the history as he is from there, and we felt very lucky to have him. The bikes were excellent. We had enough gear to ride all of the hills, the rides were Varied fun and challenging, some of the most beautiful country I’ve ever ridden in. Thank you, Vbt for an amazing adventure. We can’t wait to travel with you again. PS. Make sure to stay on either before or after your excursion to walk the wall in Dubrovnik!
Julie Waldner, Colorado
Croatia: The Dalmatian Coast, Korčula & Dubrovnik
Can’t wait for our next one!
We have been on several trips with VBT and they have again delighted us. Croatia is a beautiful country and I feel like we got to see some really exceptional sights on this trip. Our trip leaders, all locals, really enhanced the experience with their local knowledge and caring customer service. The food, wine and accommodations were all excellent. We got e-bikes which helped us enjoy the trip even more. Our group was compatible and both the pre- and post- add-on trips to Zagreb and Dubrovnik were amazing. We are so glad we did all of it. We would highly recommend VBT and especially this trip to anyone.
Joyce T, Palm Harbor, FL
Croatia Bike & Boat: Split & the Dalmatian Islands by Yacht
Trip of a Lifetime!
The absolute best customer service I’ve encountered. From the first class accommodations in the Split hotel to the final beautiful beachside hotel in Dubrovnik, every expectation was consistently exceeded. The crew on the boat were super friendly and always available if needed. All provided meals were first class. The boat sparkled as the crew wiped down all of the windows and hand rails daily. Our bike guides and support were top notch. Always cheerful and knowledgeable about the areas we biked through, I couldn’t ask for a better team. Bikes were super well maintained and always where they needed to be. Guides kept us on schedule without ever making us feel rushed. We always knew what the plan for the day was. There was adequate personal time for swimming shopping, or just strolling around the towns.
Wayne H, Carbondale Colorado
Croatia Bike & Boat: Split & the Dalmatian Islands by Yacht
Awesome tour!
Just returned yesterday from Croatia. This was our first VBT tour and I'm sure it will not be our last. Our guides, Marko and Vanja were exceptional and we hated to leave them. They went above and beyond with recommendations for restaurants, things to see and do during the tour as well as the post tour extension in Split.
Amyandbill1, Fort Wayne, IN, United States
Croatia: The Dalmatian Islands
Great experience; great staff!
This was a fantastic trip taken at the perfect time of the year in September. We were able to ride, swim and dine in gorgeous settings every day. The chance to meet the locals in their homes for dinners and to hear of their lives in Croatia was priceless. We were very fortunate to have two excellent guides in Nevenka and Natasha; they were both so knowledgeable and accommodating, we couldn't have asked for better leaders!
WheelmanWillie, Eugene, OR, USA
Croatia: The Dalmatian Islands
Enchanting
Our knowledgable guides gave me much insight into the history and culture of these two countries while enjoying invigorating hikes and walks along enchanting trails around lakes, through mountains and along scenic gorges. I enjoyed the occasional periods of free time where I could explore the towns on my own which was very easy to do. The citizens are very friendly and welcoming, most everyone speaks English and I always felt safe.
Angie Kontur,
Slovenia & Croatia: Lake Bled & Rovinj
A marvelous trip to Slovenia and Croatia
My first experience on a walking tour was delightful. I was very impressed with the expertise and friendliness of the guides who knew so much about history, geography, and local flora. Their attention to detail, ensuring our safety and comfort, while sharing fascinating aspects of Slovenia and Croatia excelled expectations. The accommodations were outstanding and the weather... perfect!
Martha Allen, East Montpelier, Vermont
Slovenia & Croatia: Lake Bled & Rovinj
WONDERFUL IN EVERY WAY
We had an amazing time on this trip and could not have been happier with our decision to take our first ever group tour with Country Walkers. Everything about our trip was seamless. Our tour guides, Dani 1 and Dani 2, were knowledgeable, mature, funny and amiable, each in his own way, and added greatly to the trip/experience. Their local knowledge of culture, food, people, history was unmatchable. We had deep trust in them, and we knew that although everything seemed to go smoothly, they were constantly working behind the scenes to adjust plans due to weather, changes in schedule, etc. They made it look easy, but we knew it was not. Of course the hiking was nice, the views and location fantastic. The food was sumptuous and always different, so we sampled many things and felt we got exposed to all kinds of traditional Croation fare. The wine and grappa were always flowing generously. The eating locations themselves were unique. We heard rumors that this tour was being regrouped or cancelled and were quite surprised as everyone in our group seemed quite happy indeed. It would be a shame to lose these fantastic guides/guys.
Audrey B,
Croatia: Brač, Korčula & Mljet National Park
You have two Wonderful Guides!
This walking tour was awesome. The different venues, hikes and lodging was all terrific . The single factor that made the trip so good, were the two Guides. Dani and Dani were so thoughtful, knowledgeable, and their trips to lunches and meals and wine tasting, at various venues were remarkable. Getting to know some of the locals at these venues, and visiting places off the beaten path, were one of the high points, in my view.
Croatia: Brač, Korčula & Mljet National Park
VBT Bicycling Vacations
Country Walkers