Just returned from the Loire Valley cycling trip with Explore and had a fantastic time. Our group leader, Erwin, was absolutely top notch—knowledgeable, fun, and great at fixing bikes on the fly (a very handy skill on a trip like this!). He was incredibly responsive to any issues, whether it was saddle woes or a hotel hiccup—he always did his best to sort it out quickly and with a smile.
The tour itself was stunning. The route took us through beautiful countryside, charming towns, and past jaw-dropping châteaux. There was also plenty of time in the afternoons and evenings to explore off-bike, enjoy a glass (or two) of local wine, and soak in the atmosphere.
We did hit a bit of a heat wave, but that’s just luck of the draw. Erwin made sure we took lots of water and shade breaks to keep the group comfortable, which was much appreciated.
The hotels were as expected—nothing fancy, nothing awful. Some rooms were quite warm due to the unusual heat, but fans were provided and that helped.
We were called the "guinea pig group," as this was Explore’s first time running this particular tour in quite a while. That said, it was an excellent experience, and with Erwin fine-tuning the itinerary along the way, I imagine it’ll be even better for the groups that follow.
Bicycle toursSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tours, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Blo
Tours, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Blois, Château De Chambord, Cheverny, St. Pierre-des-Corps
Head for 90 degrees North! Since the 16th century, the greatest expeditions have repeatedly attempted to reach the North Pole. This mythical geographic point inspires and attracts as much as it fascinates dreamers and conquerors, seeking out the other side of the world. Following in the wake of Frederick Cook, Robert Edwin Peary or Roald Amundsen, who were among the many who sought to achieve this elusive goal, you will be part of the chosen few who will attempt to reach this near-unattainable point, some 700 km from the nearest land. Swept by the winds and the currents, the ice floe is constantly drifting and your ship's Captain will manoeuvre carefully in an attempt to reach the northernmost point of our planet. From Spitsbergen, you will set sail north to the waters at the edge of the Earth, towards landscapes that continually change according to the ice, and the light at play in the skies above. Nature reigns supreme here, sheltering exceptional wildlife; polar bears, seals and a variety of whales call these glacial waters home and you will have a chance to spot them as you journey towards the North Pole - the Holy Grail of all polar explorers.
Be among the few people in the world - to go in search of the Geographic North Pole.
Perfect your photographic skills - learn from the eye and sound advice of British photo ambassador Ian Dawson
Enjoy the rugged and varied landscapes of Spitsbergen - jagged mountain peaks, gigantic glaciers and steep-sided cliffs that reach down to the sea
Incredible wildlife - polar bears, seals, whales and a prolific array of Arctic birdlife
Polar expeditions and cruise
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Fab tour loved every minute! Peter Myer made it the best thank you Explore! Aurora and Raffa were amazing at Hotel du Bois made us feel right at home! A little suggestion (not complaint) would have loved an English speaking channel on the tv.
Walking toursAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Les Praz
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Les Praz, Cascades De Berard, Le Tour, Lac Blanc, Les Houches
Discover the highlights of the south of France and the city-state of Monaco on this 8-day tour. Explore the charming old town of Antibes and enjoy panoramic views from Cimiez in Nice. Spend a leisurely day in Cannes, with options for sightseeing, shopping, or a boat trip. Visit the medieval town of Grasse, the artist village of St Paul de Vence, and enjoy another free day to visit coastal gems like Saint-Raphael or Saint-Tropez. Experience the glamour of Monaco and Monte Carlo on an included day trip, visiting the famous Casino de Monte Carlo, taking in the Formula One track and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cannes, Cote D'Azur
Cannes, Cote D'Azur
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Frolic in France and Monaco on this 14-day guided tour. In spectacular Saint-Tropez, a Local Expert will guide you along the coastal town’s ancient walls for stunning views of the sea below. See three architecture styles beautifully combine at the Aix-en-Provence Cathedral. Slide into the passenger’s seat of a vintage car for a drive through the countryside, then sip on wine at a countryside winery. Savour the 18th-century elegance of Château de Fonscolombe in the heart of Provence in a 3-night luxurious stay. In Paris, admire the glittering Eiffel Towel and the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, Nice, French Riviera, Bor
Paris, Nice, French Riviera, Bordeaux, Saint Tropez, Aix En Provence, Nimes, Carcassonne
Loved the whole experience- visited all the best countries in Europe, tasted wines, spirits and other European alcohol In cheapest prices. It’s not suitable for asians with dark skin and if you’re over 34 yrs old unless you have a thick skin to not give any reaction to the comments some people make as a joke- only because they are white and still young. Not sure what they are so proud about in those moments. Other than that I enjoyed my time with rest of them. The price was on discount- I had to add on some extra adventures which worth it. Honestly 24 days is finished so quickly. Recommend to all the people who like explore Europe more in less time in cheaper price. Great work contiki, I am on my second one now- in Thailand, this group of approx 30 people is much better than European escapades (just my personal experience).
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hostel, Hotel, Resort, Guest House
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
London, Florence, Beaujolais, French Riviera
London, Florence, Beaujolais, French Riviera
8% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Uncover the Alps in all their glory as you spend eight days hiking the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc. Following a circuit route from Chamonix in France, come face to face with dizzying peaks, glittering lakes and rolling pastures, passing through Switzerland and Italy on the way. Each day ends in charming accommodation, and your luggage will be transported for you to lighten the load. With a highly qualified International Mountain Leader as your guide who will not only ensure your safety, but also show you what makes this part of the world so special, you can focus on the gorgeous natural scenery!
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Argentiere, Champex, C
Chamonix, Argentiere, Champex, Courmayeur, Les Chapieux, Les Contamines-Montjoie