Overview
Rotalis travels 31 routes in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Poland, Scandinavia, the Baltic States, South Africa and New Zealand. Trips last 5, 7, 9 or 16 days, in companionable groups of 19 participants at most. Custom-tailored routes, mostly removed from automobile traffic and leading you through beautiful nature, are a Rotalis strength and tradition. Many paths used by Rotalis do not appear on even the most detailed maps. Stretches that have been deemed unsuitable for biking are traveled by boat, bus or rail. With the exception of very short transfers, these alternatives are mentioned in the trip descriptions. The daily ride is between 13 and 49 miles (usually on the shorter side the first day) at an average speed of about 12 mph. The length of the daily ride is determined by the condition of the paths and the topography. 25 miles in hilly terrain requires more effort than a longer route in a flat area. The approximate cycling distance of each day's itinerary is given in the trip descriptions.
Heart, lungs and muscles will often be noticeably challenged. Particularly long or steep climbs are comfortably mastered on foot, pushing the bike. In each trip description, you'll find a short rating of the "difficulty level". These refer only to the condition of the path, distance covered and steepness. Factors such as a strong headwind or other weather conditions can require extra energy. Arrival at each day's destination is usually between 3:00pm and 5:00pm.
Important Specifics You Should Know
Rotalis is a European specialist and has organized bike tours throughout the continent for over 30 years. This experience is unmatched in the business. All tours are exclusively planned and operated by Rotalis. The goal is to offer perfectly organized tours, with very personal service at a reasonable price.
Rotalis’ modified trekking bike is perfectly suited for this type of travel. It will function well on dirt paths as well as paved roads and above all is safe and comfortable. Rotalis organizes leisurely bike tours, not the Tour de France or mountain bike extravaganzas.
Guests travel in a group, and a tour guide is always there to be of assistance, explaining points of interest along the way. The driver of the support vehicle is never far off and will meet the group three or four times a day in case a guest would like to ride in the van. Weather permitting he will generally prepare a picnic of local specialties. Your luggage is transported in the van and is brought to your room prior to your arrival in the hotels.
The Rotalis package always includes breakfast and dinner (beverages excluded at dinner). Lunch or picnic is not included and is paid individually.
Hotels are generally very good medium-level hotels with a typical local flair. On occasion you may encounter a luxury hotel or a more simple but decent inn.
Your payment will be charged to your credit card immediately after completion of the trip. As indicated in the terms and conditions, Rotalis strongly recommends cancellation insurance (available at most travel agencies).
What Differentiates Rotalis from North American Tour Operators?
Rotalis is a European company intent on showing you the backroads and local color of their continent. Rotalis customers are primarily German-speaking Europeans so that the usual language on the tours is German. Nevertheless, Rotalis has had many loyal English-speaking customers, Americans in particular, for years. Rotalis tour guides all speak English and are there to help you.
Affiliations
- Association of German Travel Agents and Tour Operators
Payments Accepted
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