When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Backroads
Why Backroads is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Backroads is recognized as the world's leading active travel company, established in 1979 and headquartered in Berkeley, California. It specializes in active vacations that combine adventure with luxury, offering an extensive portfolio of biking, walking & hiking, multi-adventure, and ocean & river cruise tours. With more than 4,200 scheduled departures across over 102 destinations worldwide—including six continents and 64 countries—Backroads provides travelers an unmatched variety of options that suit all activity levels, from easygoing to avid adventurers. The company's meticulous trip design includes elegant accommodations and world-class dining experiences, ensuring that vacations are not only physically invigorating but also indulgent and comfortable. A key highlight of Backroads is its highly trained Trip Leaders, who consistently receive exceptional praise from guests and contribute greatly to the high service standards. Their personalized attention and support create an environment where travelers can easily let go, relax, and enjoy the journey alongside friends or new companions. This combination of unsurpassed service, adventure, and luxury makes Backroads an exceptional place to plan a meeting or vacation with friends seeking memorable shared experiences.
Here's what people think of Backroads
As of recent, Backroads holds a 4.1-star rating based on 110 reviews.
Guest reviews of Backroads reveal strong satisfaction with the company's travel experiences, reflected in an overall rating of 4.1 from 110 reviews. Many reviewers highlight Backroads’ unique balance of personal challenge and luxury, emphasizing how the trips allow them to stay active while enjoying high levels of comfort and hospitality. Positive reviews praise the company’s exceptional customer service, the expertise and attentive care of Trip Leaders, flawless trip execution, and the strong company philosophy focused on guest satisfaction. Loyal customers often mention repeated travel with Backroads, indicating a high level of trust and appreciation for the brand's consistency and quality. Conversely, some negative feedback relates to occasional issues typical of extensive travel logistics, though these appear to be the exception rather than the norm. Overall, the glowing recognition of Backroads' leaders, support teams, and attention to detail solidify its reputation as a premium active travel provider. The reviews collectively paint a picture of a company that not only delivers exhilarating travel adventures but also prioritizes customer-friendly service and memorable experiences, often prompting guests to recommend Backroads enthusiastically to others.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Laura Bischoff
Nova Scotia biking trip June 2024. Excellent service, food and cycling. 11 guests, 3 guides. Guests were mid-40s to early 70s. Half used E-bikes (which were great.) Plenty of options for routes and distances that fit the person and the weather. Nice hotels, fantastic private dining experiences, plenty of snacks. Guides were attentive to details, customer service and fun.
Lisa May
I recently finished a multisport patagonia lakes district trip. Disappointingly, it did not meet my expectations in activities, quality of hotels nor food offerings. They claim to offer less strenuous biking options and fail to mention the route is gravel. No electric bike option available either, although there were plenty of them being riden on our routes. Bottled water was not a standard offering and tap water was what was made available. Unfortunately, a few guests, including myself got "food poisening" symptoms, which we believed to have been due to the tap water. My feedback on limited food selections (how many days in a row can you expect guests to be satisfied eatting the same fish offering)? and tired properties were answered by their rep with statements saying these were luxury tier and would make note in my file I might prefer "comfort" properties instead. Rather than acknowledging my feedback of nonworking spa equipment and + 30 year old bathrooms you wouldn't dare walk barefoot in, my feedback was dismissed and the BR standard line given. Lastly, I did not rate my guides as excellent, I rated them in the top 25% but their rep wanted to know specifically why I had not given them a 10, as she claimed they would form a remedial plan of improvement for them. I am convinced Backroads pushes back on anything that's not a 5* ratings and discounts any feedback that might be contrary to that. I'd suggest BR start with listening to clients concerns and NOT correcting them as to why a client's feedback is not an accurate description of their experience. I have over +40 adventure travel vacations under my belt and BR is in the lower tier of my experiences.
Tom Curnin
A Dream on Two Wheels: Biking Through Provence with Backroads My recent bike trip through Provence with Backroads was great. From start to finish, the experience struck a perfect balance between adventure, culture, and comfort. If you’re looking to explore France in a way that connects you to the landscape, the people, and the rhythm of local life, this is it. The journey wove through the stunning countryside. Every day brought a new highlight: The Backroads team was phenomenal. Our trip leaders, Simon, Adrian and Marc were knowledgeable, organized, and genuinely passionate about the region. They handled everything with ease — from bike maintenance to gourmet picnics — and brought a warm, upbeat energy to the group. Their local insights added so much depth to the experience. Navigating the route was easy on the supplied Wahoo. Backroads rates all their trips on a level of difficulty. The riding itself was thoughtfully designed for a variety of fitness levels. With e-bike options available, everyone could enjoy the climbs without worry. The routes gave us flexibility — you could challenge yourself with a longer loop or take it easy and arrive early to relax at the next inn. As someone who does a fair amount of riding at home, I used to travel with my own road bike on these trips. But now, with Backroads' high-quality titanium frame road bikes, I no longer feel the need. I just bring my pedals and shoes. And speaking of the inns… each one was charming and luxurious in that understated French way. Think of stone courtyards, vineyard views, and swimming pools perfect for a late-afternoon dip. The food and wine were, of course, extraordinary. One night we dined at a Michelin-starred restaurant, another night it was a rustic Provençal feast under the stars. Each meal was a celebration. A couple of quick tips: First, this was my sixth European Backroads trip, and once again, they exceeded expectations. Their consistency in service, route planning, and local experiences keeps me coming back. Second, be prepared for heat — Provence in summer can get very hot, especially in July and August. Temperatures often hit the 90s (Fahrenheit), so hydration, sun protection, and early morning starts are essential. If you prefer cooler temps, spring or fall is a great alternative. What I loved most was how immersive the whole experience felt. We weren’t just tourists passing through — we were part of Provence, if only for a week. Backroads struck the perfect note between independence and support, comfort and authenticity. Thank you to our team leaders Adrian, Simon & Marc. I can’t wait to take another Backroads trip — and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Provence to anyone looking for beauty, culture, and a bit of cycling bliss.
Amanda Jones
Great bike touring company. Had a wonderful time cycling from Prague to Vienna. I’m 47 and I was the youngest person on the trip and one of only 3 singles. Most people were over 60 and used e-bikes. Ideally more people would have been on regular bikes and in my age group. Not much Backroads can do about that but it is something to be aware of when considering booking with them.
Rafa L
Wow, what an experience! It was incredible. My family had a fantastic time. Great for kids. Super flexible. We did the Brittany/Normandy trip
How to reach Backroads
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Why Backroads may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Backroads with your friends?
Backroads offers a unique and exceptional destination for gathering with friends, providing more than just a meet-up spot but an immersive experience that bonds through adventure and discovery. Whether you seek active travel or scenic retreats, this business thrives on crafting memorable journeys filled with personalized service, detailed planning, and the promise of “the trip of a lifetime.” Friends looking for a dynamic combination of physical activity, cultural immersion, and natural beauty will find Backroads perfectly aligned with their desire for shared meaningful experiences. The company’s passion for creating seamless, hassle-free adventures means your group can focus entirely on connection rather than logistics. With strong testimonials praising everything from exceptional organization to fresh and engaging itineraries, Backroads stands out as a place where groups not only explore new terrain but also strengthen friendships, craft stories, and enjoy the extraordinary together. It’s not just a location but a catalyst for camaraderie through shared challenges and discoveries, making it an ideal rallying point for your next friends’ getaway or family escape.
What activities does Backroads offer for groups?
Backroads specializes in active travel with a focus on hiking, biking, and multi-sport adventures that cater to different levels of fitness and interest, making it perfect for groups with varied preferences. Their trips range from mountain biking through picturesque landscapes, trekking classic paths, to multi-sport journeys that blend cycling, hiking, and paddling in one seamless itinerary. These activities are often set against stunning backdrops, including mountainous terrains, coastal routes, and historic regions that inspire exploration and awe. Groups can expect expertly guided excursions, with local experts who enrich the experience by sharing insider knowledge and unique cultural insights. The itineraries aren’t rushed; instead, they strike a balanced pace allowing groups to bond while being active, enjoy meals together, and discover local cuisines. Beyond physical activities, Backroads provides different accommodation styles from charming inns to high-end resorts, carefully selected to enhance the group’s comfort and socializing opportunities after the day’s adventures.
Why is Backroads perfect for group meetups?
Backroads excels in providing a comprehensive and personalized approach to group travel, which makes it an excellent choice for meetups as it handles the complex logistics that can often make group trips stressful. Their attention to detail—from booking and confirmations to on-trip support—has earned rave reviews about smooth and reliable experiences. The company’s staff emphasizes a high level of customer interaction and service, ensuring groups feel genuinely cared for, which enhances the overall enjoyment and stress-free nature of the trip. Their offerings focus on bringing groups closer through shared challenges and triumphs while providing ample downtime and options for social interaction, crucial for a successful meetup. Furthermore, Backroads creates an inclusive atmosphere where friends or family can reconnect away from daily distractions, encouraging meaningful conversation and joint discovery. The company’s long-standing reputation and refined expertise in adventure travel foster trust, which is essential when planning significant group adventures.
How does Backroads ensure a quality travel experience?
To guarantee a quality experience, Backroads invests heavily in meticulous planning and top-notch staffing. Reviews consistently highlight the professionalism and warmth of guides, the detailed and transparent communication before and during trips, and thoughtful extras that elevate the journey beyond the expected. The lodgings and dining arrangements typically receive praise for quality and comfort, ensuring your group is well-rested and energized for daily activities. Safety and pacing are also priorities, as Backroads carefully matches trip itineraries to the abilities of participants and supports all levels of fitness, making sure no one feels left behind. Their commitment to small-group sizes helps maintain an intimate and personalized experience, avoiding the impersonal feel large groups might encounter. All these facets combine to form an outstanding travel experience appreciated by repeat customers who continue returning to Backroads for new adventures.
What should groups expect regarding pricing and value at Backroads?
Backroads is recognized for offering premium experiences, often reflected in their pricing, which some travelers consider high compared to other tour operators. This premium cost corresponds with the level of service, personalized itineraries, expert guide presence, and quality accommodations. While some reviews mention concerns about cost versus value, many guests express satisfaction with the inclusions and seamless logistics that justify the price. For groups prioritizing convenience, expert support, and memorable experiences without the stress of self-planning, Backroads provides significant value. The company’s emphasis on creating effortless and immersive adventures often offsets the expense by delivering a richer and more fulfilling travel experience. Groups must weigh their budget against the desire for well-organized trips with guaranteed quality service and the benefits of shared active experiences in remarkable locations.
How does Backroads accommodate different group sizes and interests?
Backroads offers flexibility to accommodate various group sizes, from intimate friend circles to extended family gatherings or small corporate teams seeking bonding opportunities. Their emphasis on small groups allows for personalized attention and fosters a close-knit dynamic among participants. Backroads also designs a range of itineraries focusing on different activities—whether predominantly biking, hiking, or multi-sport—in diverse environments worldwide. This variety enables groups to select trips that best match their collective fitness levels and adventure interests, ensuring everyone can participate fully and enjoyably. Special requests and private group arrangements are often accommodated, providing tailored journeys for unique needs and preferences. The company’s professional guides work to balance group pace and ensure engagement, encouraging inclusivity where novices and seasoned adventurers alike can thrive together.
What makes Backroads a standout in the active travel industry?
Backroads stands out for its long history and deep expertise in active travel, having operated for over four decades with a solid reputation for quality and consistency. Their commitment to small-group sizes, expert local guides, and personalized service differentiates them from many competitors. Backroads also excels in creating immersive cultural and environmental experiences alongside physical activities, providing guests with a sense of place rather than just exercise. Their attention to logistics and customer communication before and during trips ensures travelers feel supported and informed every step of the way. Additionally, the company’s diverse portfolio of trips across continents offers unique experiences crafted to highlight the best natural and cultural attractions in each location. Although some critiques mention cost and occasional inconsistencies, the overall positive feedback from repeat travelers highlights their dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
Why do repeat customers keep coming back to Backroads?
Repeat customers of Backroads frequently cite the company’s exceptional service, well-organized trips, and the quality of human connections made on the journeys as key reasons for returning. The personal attention from booking through trip completion builds trust and a sense of care rarely found in larger tour operations. Many guests mention that the experiences provide them not only physical challenges but also meaningful interactions with guides and fellow travelers, creating lasting memories and friendships. The sheer variety of trips available encourages returning adventurers to choose new destinations and activities, knowing they will receive the same high standards. Backroads fosters a community of passionate travelers who appreciate the company’s ethos of blending activity, culture, and nature in ways that create transformative travel experiences. This loyalty underscores Backroads’ success in delivering more than vacations but rather journeys that resonate deeply and inspire lifelong travel enthusiasm.
How does Backroads handle challenges or complaints?
While Backroads enjoys largely positive reviews, like any large operation, it has received criticism regarding pricing and some service aspects. However, the company appears proactive in addressing customer concerns with attentive communication and willingness to improve. Their strong customer service reputation is reflected in responsive management efforts and efforts to provide transparent information to travelers before booking. Given their long-standing presence and commitment to quality, most operational issues are resolved promptly, contributing to overall customer satisfaction. Prospective group travelers should feel confident that Backroads prioritizes smooth experiences and strives to maintain a trustworthy relationship with clients, actively learning from feedback. Understanding that no travel company is perfect, Backroads’ approach to handling complaints helps sustain their reputation and long-term success in the active travel market.
In summary, Backroads is an outstanding destination for groups seeking an active, immersive, and well-orchestrated travel experience. They offer a blend of physical activities, cultural engagement, and personalized service designed to create unforgettable shared adventures with friends or family. Their proven track record, attention to detail, and focus on quality make them a standout choice for anyone looking to rally in a meaningful, exciting way.