Gravel Bikes: The Perfect Companion for Exploring Europe’s Most Scenic Bike Tours

03-02-2025

Gravel biking has exploded in popularity in recent years, offering cyclists the perfect blend of offroad and road performance and versatility.

Gravel bikes are a great way to experience the outdoors, combining the best elements of road biking and mountain biking into a single, versatile package.

For those planning to join our bike tours across the stunning landscapes of France, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, gravel bikes may just be your ideal companion. In this post, we’ll explore what makes gravel bikes unique, how they compare to other bike types, when they’re recommended, and why they’re perfectly suited for our tours.

What Sets Gravel Bikes Apart?

Gravel bikes are often described as the ultimate all-round option, but why exactly are they different from other bicycles? Here are the key differences:

Gravel Bike vs. Racing Bike

Tires: Gravel bikes can have wider, profiled tires designed for stability and grip on rough terrain, the extra clearance of the forks allows for tires up to 50mm width, ideal for bikepacking and adventure rides. Racing bikes generally have thinner, smooth tires optimized for speed on paved roads.

Geometry: Gravel bikes feature a more relaxed geometry, offering comfort and control over long distances and uneven surfaces. Racing bikes, on the other hand, are built for aerodynamics and often feature fairly aggressive riding positions.

Gearing: Gravel bikes often come with a wider range of gears, making them better suited for steep climbs and mixed terrain. Road bikes often lack extensive lower gears to focus on top speeds.

Durability: Gravel bikes are designed to handle the wear and tear of off-road trails and dirt paths, often unlike the more lightweight construction of many racing bikes.

Minor other differences include fork angle and offset, rear chainstay length and bottom bracket drop in some cases.

It is important to note that gravel and road bikes are more similar than people often think, and a lot of the differences have to do with the setup of the particular bike. For example, swapping thin tires and adjusting the gearing on a gravel bike can make it road-friendly. Likewise, a road bike with slightly wider, profiled tires and the right setup can handle gravel trails surprisingly well.
Tire clearance is the biggest factor distinguishing gravel bikes, even more than geometry or gearing. At the end of the day a lot depends on the particular bike chosen. The difference between road bikes and gravel bikes is more of a spectrum than a clear distinction.

Gravel Bike vs. Hybrid Bike

Off-Road Capability: While hybrid bikes are versatile for light trails and urban commuting, gravel bikes excel on more challenging off-road terrains such as gravel paths, forest trails, and rocky roads.

Performance: Gravel bikes offer better performance for long-distance touring due to their lighter weight and more advanced components.

Accessories: Gravel bikes often have mounts for bikepacking gear like panniers, frame bags, and extra water bottles, making them perfect for multi-day adventures.

When to Choose a Gravel Bike

Gravel bikes are not just a niche product, they’re a versatile option for a variety of cyclists. Here’s when you should consider riding one:

Exploring Mixed Terrain: If your journey involves a mix of paved roads, gravel paths, and dirt trails, a gravel bike provides the flexibility to handle all types of surfaces.

Long-Distance Adventures: The comfort-focused geometry and mounting options make gravel bikes ideal for endurance rides and bikepacking trips.

Versatile Touring: If you’re unsure of the terrain you’ll encounter, a gravel bike’s versatility makes it a safe and reliable choice.

Now that you know what makes gravel bikes unique, let's explore how they enhance our bike tours across Europe.

For many of our tours, a gravel bike is particularly well suited. Whether you’re climbing the rolling hills of Tuscany, navigating the winding gravel paths in the Pyrenees, or exploring Portugal’s rugged trails, a gravel bike ensures comfort and confidence every step of the way.

What you should know about Gravel Bikes for our tours.

Gravel bikes allow riders of varying skill levels to enjoy cycling together. Their forgiving design and gear range mean they’re suitable for both seasoned cyclists and beginners who want to try something new. If you’re unsure about tackling more rugged routes, a gravel bike can help you feel more confident and capable.

Ready for your gravel bike adventure?

We recommend these tailor made tours for gravel bikes. Off-track fun and beautiful pathways guaranteed!

Gravel bikes open up a lot of possibilities, and our bike tours are the perfect way to experience their versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to riding, our tours are designed to challenge and explore.

For those seeking the ultimate gravel biking experience, our true gravel tours are designed to immerse you in breathtaking landscapes while challenging your riding skills. Each tour offers a unique combination of terrain, scenery, and culture, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.

- Ideally Dalí (France & Spain) – Pedal from the vibrant seaside town of Collioure to the artistic haven of Cadaqués, tracing the Mediterranean’s shimmering coastline. Immerse yourself in Catalan culture, tasting exquisite local wines and traditional delicacies along the way. (6 nights/7 days, Easy/Moderate)

- Across the Border & Back in Time (Switzerland & France) – Ride scenic gravel trails around Lake Geneva, through vineyards and mountain passes, with stunning views of the Alps. (4 nights/5 days, Moderate)

- Costa Brava Gravel Tour (Spain) – Explore the rugged beauty of Catalonia’s wild coast, from Girona to Figueres, passing through vineyards and national parks. (7 nights/8 days, Moderate/Difficult)

- The Adventure Nextdoor: Gravel grind your way from Geneva to Geneva (Switzerland & France) – A challenging route through the Savoy region, skirting along Lake Annecy and the Jura mountains. (5 nights/6 days, Difficult)

- Cycling the Gravel Backroads of Girona (Spain) – Discover the best gravel loops in Catalonia, from the Pyrenees to the Empordà plain, while enjoying Girona’s lively cycling culture. (4 nights/5 days, Difficult)

Each of our tours is carefully planned to provide an ideal mix of adventure, culture, and comfort. Whether you're new to gravel biking or an experienced rider, these tours offer an exciting and rewarding way to explore Europe’s hidden trails.

Whether you crave winding coastal routes or rugged mountain passes, our tours offer the perfect mix of challenge, scenery, and cultural immersion. Grab your gravel bike and join us for an unforgettable ride!