Treasures of the Baltic Self Guided Cycle
Treasures of the Baltic Self Guided Cycle
11 Days Starting in Tallinn, Estonia and ending in Vilnius, Lithuania
Visiting: Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park, Tartu, Sigulda, Riga, Klaipeda, Curonian Spit National Park, Kaunas, Vilnius
Tour operator:
Tour code:
TBS
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Treasures of the Baltic Self Guided Cycle" tour, a captivating journey through Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This adventure offers a blend of scenic cycling routes, historic exploration, and cultural immersion. Pedal through the unspoiled beauty of Lahemaa National Park, the serene shores of Peipsi Lake, and the picturesque landscapes of the Curonian Spit. Discover the historic centers of Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius, each brimming with medieval charm and modern vibrancy. Enjoy the hospitality of local 3-4 star hotels and savor the freedom of a self-guided tour, complete with detailed route notes and an emergency hotline. This tour promises an unforgettable experience of the Baltic's natural and cultural treasures.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Tallinn, Estonia
Location: Tallinn
Accommodation Name: hotel
On arrival in Tallinn, make your way to the hotel (we can arrange an arrival transfer for you if required - supplement applies). In the early evening at 6pm you can join a guided tour of Tallinn's old town. The city grew in importance as a strategic port between Russia and Scandinavia, and has evolved into a vibrant cultural city with a delightful walled historic centre. There is an eclectic mix of medieval and modern, Soviet and classic Estonian, grand church spires and crumbling wooden houses. Dinner at leisure in Tallinn's emerging culinary scene.
Day 2 : Cycling In Lahemaa National Park (51Km/32Mi), Overnight Sagadi
Location: Lahemaa National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning you'll meet your minibus driver for the transfer to the start of your cycle (100km - 1.5 hours). The route begins by taking you through the Lahemaa National Park, which is one of the last unspoiled regions of the Baltic coast. Lahemaa, or 'land of bays' is a nature lover’s paradise and the largest national park in Estonia, established in 1971. There are dense woods, marshes, lakes and waterfalls to discover. If you prefer wildlife to landscape, the park has moose, wild boars and over 220 bird species. Continue to Sagadi and your hotel for overnight accommodation.
Day 3 : Cycle Along Peipsi Lake (50Km/31Mi), Transfer To The University Town Of Tartu
Location: Tartu
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following a transfer by minibus to Mustvee, you begin a pleasant bicycle trip along the Peipsi Lake shore to Varnja. Peipsi is the 4th largest lake in Europe, divided in two by the Russian border. En route, you’ll pass many fishing villages. You reach your hotel after a bus transfer to Tartu, a famous, historic university town (the university was founded in 1632).
Total Transfer: 160km/99.5mi - 1.5-2hrs
Day 4 : Cycle Through The 'Estonian Switzerland' (28Km/18Mi), Transfer To Sigulda
Location: Sigulda
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a short bus transfer to Otepää, a beautiful place with many lakes, you begin cycling through the so-called “Estonian Switzerland”, absorbing the stunning landscape. The route takes you to Sangaste which is famous for its 19th century romantic castle built in the style of Windsor Palace. From here you transfer into Latvia where your destination is Sigulda, in the Gauja River Valley, which is the most popular resort in Latvia. En route stop in Cesis where you can visit the medieval old town.
Total Transfer: 235km/146mi - 3.5hrs
Day 5 : Cycle Through Gauja National Park (17Km/11Mi), Transfer To Riga
Location: Riga
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
As you cycle through Gauja National Park, enjoy spectacular views of Gauja River valleys with the Gutmana Cave, the ruins of a 13th Century Crusaders Castle in Sigulda and the restored medieval style Turaida Castle. Afternoon transfer to Riga, the Latvian capital, where a guided tour of the charming Old Town awaits. After checking-in at the hotel you can explore this medieval Hanseatic town, famous for its Art Nouveau buildings.
Total Transfer: 50km/31mi - 1hr
Day 6 : Explore Riga, Cycle To Jurmala (35Km/22Mi), Return To Riga By Train
Location: Riga
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free to explore Riga on your own and take a cycle ride on a bicycle path to Jurmala, a Latvian seaside resort well known for its long, white, sand beaches, mineral waters and mud with healing properties. We recommend taking the opportunity to bathe in the sea and cycling along the beach – its well worth it! In the evening take a local train back to Riga (30 min; not included).
Day 7 : Enter Lithuania,Visit Hill Of Crosses, Cycle To Klaipeda (42Km/29Mi Or 32Km/20Mi)
Location: Klaipeda
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer by minibus to the Lithuanian coast, stopping en route at the Hill of Crosses, the unforgettable sight of thousands of crosses on two small hills. You begin cycling towards Klaipeda on a great bicycle path, which follows the Baltic Coast along the Seaside Regional Park. En route pass Palanga, the well-known Lithuanian seaside resort. Enjoy a break here; perhaps visit the renowned Botanical Park, Amber Museum and the 470m pier heading out into the Baltic Sea.
Total Transfer: 290km/180mi - 4hrs
Day 8 : Ferry Then Cycle The Curonian Spit National Park (57Km/36Mi) To Nida
Location: Curonian Spit National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast you cross the lagoon by ferry (not included - allow EUR1 pp) and start cycling on an asphalt bike path which takes you along the Curonian Spit to Nida, the most beautiful resort in Lithuania, famous for impressive sand dunes and the Amber Gallery. En route you can visit the Hill of Witches which houses almost one hundred whimsical wooden sculptures about Lithuanian legends, scattered along a forest path. Or, if you prefer, watch a colony of grey herons and cormorants, explore the “Dead” sand dunes on foot, swim in the Baltic Sea or, simply relax and take in some sun on the golden beaches. Take a boat (2 hours) or minibus transfer back to Klaipeda.
Day 9 : Cross The Curonian Lagoon, Cycle To Vente Cape (31Km/19Mi), Transfer To Kaunas
Location: Kaunas
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a morning boat across the Curonian Lagoon to the mainland (approx. 1.5 hours), enjoying a beautiful view of the Curonian Spit sand dunes. The cycle route takes you to Vente Cape where you can visit a bird observatory and the 19th century lighthouse which was used for more than 100 years. In the afternoon ride along the Curonian Lagoon through the Nemunas River Delta Regional Park then transfer by minibus to Kaunas.
Total Transfer: 210km/130mi - 3-3.5hrs, boat 14km
Day 10 : Cycle To The Island Castle At Trakai (25Km/16Mi), Transfer To Vilnius
Location: Vilnius
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast you are transferred by minibus to the Lake District where you begin cycling through picturesque countryside over gentle hills. Arrive in Trakai, the former capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Here you can visit the famous 14th century Gothic island castle erected on a small island in Lake Galve. Later a short transfer takes you to Vilnius, capital of Lithuania for more than 600 years. Set on the Vilnia river and with its historic centre awash with beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets, Vilnius has a wonderful ambiance. It has been known as the 'Jerusalem of Lithuania' or the 'Jerusalem of the north' and was declared the European Capital of Culture in 2009. This evening, a guided tour of the city awaits you.
Total Transfer: 97km/60.6mi - 1.5hrs
Day 11 : Trip Concludes
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trip concludes after breakfast. Transfers can be organised to the airport, or additional accommodation booked - please ask our staff for details.
What's Included
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Accommodation
10 nights in 3-4 star hotels -
10 breakfasts
Generally buffet style with breads, cheese, some meats, spreads and perhaps yoghurt and muesli. There will also be juice, coffee and tea available.
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10 nights in 3-4 star hotels
Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.
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Hybrid bike rental
Includes helmet, handlebar bag, and one tachometer per two bikes. E-bike available with a supplement.
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Internal transfers
Transfers as described by air-conditioned minibus.
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Luggage transfer
One piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 20 kg and one small bag or backpack.
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Boat trip across Curonian Lagoon
Boat trip from Nida to the mainland.
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Guided city tours
Guided 2-hour city tours in Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius (entrance fees extra, payable locally).
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Information pack
Includes route notes and map (one set per room).
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Emergency hotline
Access to an emergency hotline.
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Support vehicle
Support vehicle available in the area (except Jurmala and the Curonian Spit).
What's Not Included
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Travel to and from Tallinn/Vilnius
Travel to the starting point in Tallinn and from the endpoint in Vilnius is not included.
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Tour guide
This is a self-guided cycling holiday, so no tour guide is provided.
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Meals not listed as included
Meals not listed as included, drinks, and lunch each day are not provided.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory but not included.
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Single room supplement
A supplement will apply if you book a single room.
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Excess luggage
Excess luggage beyond the allowed limit is not included.
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Entrance fees for tourist sites
Entrance fees for tourist sites are not included.
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Transfers not listed included
Transfers not listed as included are not provided.
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Transfers by taxi or public transport
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage are not included.
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Bike hire security deposit
A security deposit of Euro 100 for hybrid bikes or Euro 200 for E-bikes or gravel bikes is required.
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SPD pedals
SPD pedals can be supplied on request with a supplement.
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Items of a personal nature
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls and laundry are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included.
Accommodation
10 nights in 3-4 star hotels. During the trip you will be accommodated in 3-4 star hotels, specially chosen for their location and service. Rooms will typically be twin share with a private bathroom. Most hotels will have wifi although it may be limited to the lobby.
Grading
MODERATE – GRADE 3
The trip requires a reasonable level of fitness to fully participate in the cycling. Daily biking routes are mainly on low traffic roads and cycle paths range from 17 to 57km/10.5 to 36mi. The terrain is varied and rolling with some gradual hills on some riding days (some steep ups and downs in the Gauja River valley and Otepää region) and dead flat most of the tour.
What You Carry
During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.
Mode of Transport
Internal transfers as described by air-conditioned minibus. Boat trip across Curonian Lagoon from Nida to the mainland. Travel to Tallin and from Vilnius. Local train from Jurmala to Riga (not included).
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
During the trip, you will be accommodated in 3-4 star hotels, specially chosen for their location and service. Rooms will typically be twin share with a private bathroom. Most hotels will have Wi-Fi, although it may be limited to the lobby.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 10 breakfasts, which are generally buffet style with breads, cheese, some meats, spreads, and perhaps yogurt and muesli. There will also be juice, coffee, and tea available.
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Is bike rental included in the tour package?
Yes, hybrid bike rental is included in the tour package. The rental includes a helmet, handlebar bag, and one tachometer per two bikes. E-bikes are also available for an additional supplement.
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Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes guided 2-hour city tours in Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius. However, entrance fees are extra and payable locally.
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What kind of support is available during the cycling tour?
An emergency hotline is available, and a support vehicle will be in the area (except Jurmala and the Curonian Spit). Additionally, an information pack with route notes and a map will be provided.
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What should I carry during the cycling days?
During the cycle day, you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone, and water. A small daypack that can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.
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What is the difficulty level of the cycling routes?
The trip is graded as moderate (Grade 3). It requires a reasonable level of fitness to fully participate in the cycling. Daily biking routes range from 17 to 57 km (10.5 to 36 miles) and are mainly on low traffic roads and cycle paths. The terrain is varied and rolling with some gradual hills on some riding days, and dead flat for most of the tour.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?
Yes, additional costs not included in the tour package are travel to and from Tallinn/Vilnius, dinner, drinks, and lunch each day (optional 6 dinner package is available for a supplement), items of a personal nature (e.g., phone calls, laundry), tips, and a single supplement if you are traveling alone or book a single room.
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Is travel insurance required for this tour?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for this tour.
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What happens if I need to skip a stage of the cycling route?
If you need to skip a stage, transfers by taxi or public transport are not included in the tour package and will be at your own expense.
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How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
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What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
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I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.