A word of advice for those planning a visit to Holland in 2012 to witness the tulips in bloom - book now.

The blossoming of the tulips is one of the most anticipated natural events of the European springtime. Whilst the picture perfect plant can be seen in many fields across Holland, it’s the Keukenhof Flower Park just outside of Amsterdam where the humble tulip is spectacularly showcased.

Our 4-day Tulip Tour bike and barge journey will provide you with the unique experience of springtime in Holland as well as take in must-see Dutch sights. The tour takes in the Flower Park Keukenhof where you’ll be amazed at the living art that is the thousands of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths.  Continuing on you’ll cycle past traditional windmills, learn how to make cheese, visit the world’s biggest flower auction and also visit the birthplace of Rembrandt before returning to Amsterdam.

Departure dates in 2012 are limited between 31 March and 15 May. With such a narrow window of opportunity, and limited capacity on our barge based cycling journeys, our 4-day Tulip Tour books out months in advance - so get in touch today to book your quintessential Dutch experience.

Cycling through the Loire Valley in France is like pedalling back into a classic fairy tale. From 16th century Kings – and even modern rock royalty such as Mick Jagger – this famous French regions lush forests and tranquil natural beauty had an irresistible lure on the early nobility inspiring them to build Frances most impressive chateaux and equally lavish gardens.

Our 8-day Loire Valley Bike and Barge is the ideal way to explore the playground of the Kings. The daily charm of cycling along quiet country roads to encounter highlights such as the magnificent 12th century castle and gardens at Apremont, the ancient Roman town of La Charité-sur-Loire and the local market in Châtillon-Coligny are enhanced thanks to the comfortable and relaxed atmosphere aboard your private barge custom built for navigating the French canals.

View the 2012 dates - bookings for the season are being taken now. The maximum group size is 18 and departures are already filling. Contact UTracks to book your berth today.

One of our most popular trips this year, our Turkey Walk and Sail dates for 2012 are also filling quickly.

Discover the side of Turkey you never knew existed on this gulet based walking journey which takes in the captivating islands, coastline and history between Marmaris to Fethiye. Walk in the footsteps of Romans through a tranquil landscape to experience ancient ruins and burial tombs, thermal pools and mud baths or even tea with a Nomadic family. Along the way stop for a dip in the inviting turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

The views gained from the decks of your gullet whilst enjoying the traditional Turkish hospitality from the Captain & crew round out the tour to provide a completely satisfying Turkish experience.

April and May dates are filling fast. Check the 2012 dates on our website now. Our Turkey Walk and Sail was featured in The Australian - read the article.

For those who prefer exploring on two wheels, take a look at our Lycian Coast Cycle & Sail.

The sparkling waters and picturesque island chains that exist in the Adriatic, Ionian and Aegean Seas provide an amazing backdrop to our popular cycling and sailing holidays in Croatia, Montenegro and Greece. The 2012 dates for all our cycle and sail tours are now live so go on line to view the 2012 dates to start planning your Mediterranean escape now.

Our 8-day cycling and sailing journeys provide unparalleled active experiences of these regions. Travelling in small groups allows a more flexible and intimate experience of the islands as you cycle & sail through villages and landscapes that characterise each unique coastal region.

Sail the azure waters of the Aegean and cycle to ancient ruins and unspoilt beaches on our Greek Islands Bike & Sail, or sail the Ionian Islands including Ithaca, Cephalonia and Corfu on our Ionian Islands Bike & Sail.

In the Adriatic, cycle the alluring islands of Southern Dalmatia to explore national parks, wineries and old villages on our Croatia Bike & Sail. Combine the islands with a visit to Dubrovnik on Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Coast. Head further north for even more unspoilt and breathtaking coastline on our Kvarner Bay Sail & Cycle, or venture south to the newly independent Balkan country of Montenegro to cycle quiet mountain and coastal roads, where you’ll be impressed by the sheer limestone cliffs.

Group sizes range from 16 to 30, depending on the scheduled boat. Contact us now to check availability around your ideal 2012 travel dates to ensure you can join one of these tempting Mediterranean adventures next year.

Holland’s instant charm, broad appeal and flat country roads make it an obvious choice for an active family holiday. The cycling paths are traffic free and safe. Thanks to the flat-as-a-pancake terrain you’ll be able to keep up with the kids and with distractions such as the fairy tale park, windmills, castles and Dutch golf, there’s an abundance of things to do off the trail to keep everyone occupied.

On the Holland Family Bike and Barge tour life on board the barge will entertain the kids as well. The Captain and his friendly crew make life as comfortable as possible onboard as they navigate their way through the Dutch canals on this 8-day circuit from Amsterdam.

From your vantage point on either the deck or from handlebar level your family will enjoy a richer experience as they glimpse a more authentic side of Holland. Cycling an average of 20kms a day the itinerary – designed for children between 7 and 11 - is gently paced and includes a free day from the bikes near local attractions.

View the new 2012 dates for our Holland Family Barge & Bike tour. Hurry, dates are limited to July and August only.

View all our Family Adventures online.