Billed as the Napoleon Expedition, the new 43-day cycling tour from Australian adventure company Ride & Seek takes riders from Paris to Moscow, tracing routes associated with Napoleon Bonaparte. Crossing two continents and seven countries, the trip is organized into three stages and runs from July 2 to August 13, 2016. The itinerary is designed to offer an immersive experience of landscapes, history, and local culture: Paris to Bautzen, Bautzen to Vilnius, and Vilnius to Moscow.
Key highlights of the tour include France’s Champagne region with its rolling vineyards, castles and scenic hillsides in southern Germany, and Poland’s well-preserved medieval villages that enjoy UNESCO protection. Cyclists will also ride sections of Poland that stretch toward the North Sea, and conclude with visits to the cultural landmarks of St. Petersburg and Moscow. The schedule includes planned rest days, and a support van follows the group daily, giving participants the option to rest on board when needed.
Tour pricing starts at $15,359 for the full 43-day expedition, with an option to join a shorter 15-day segment beginning at $5,478. Prices are based on double occupancy; a single supplement applies for travelers requesting a private room. The route balances challenging riding days with opportunities for sightseeing, local cuisine, and interactions with regional communities, making it suitable for experienced cyclists who also want a deep cultural experience.
The three-stage structure allows riders to experience a variety of terrain and regional character. The first stage departs from Paris and moves east into the Champagne region, offering gentle rolling roads, historic towns, and the chance to sample regional specialties. From there the route continues into Germany, where pastoral landscapes give way to forested hills and castle-dotted valleys. The second stage progresses northeast through Poland and the Baltic states, passing through towns with medieval architecture and coastal stretches. The final stage leads into Russia, culminating in iconic urban centers rich with museums, monuments, and architectural heritage.
Each day’s distance and difficulty vary to provide a balanced pace over the 43-day span. Support services include luggage transfers, mechanical assistance, and the accompanying van, which can be used for recovery or to skip sections as needed. Guided components include route briefings, local orientation, and opportunities to explore key sites off the bike. Rest days are scheduled to allow for sightseeing, recovery, and optional excursions.
Participants should be prepared for long days in the saddle and a mix of road surfaces. The tour suits cyclists with solid endurance and some prior experience on multi-day rides, though the support structure helps accommodate different fitness levels. Accommodation is arranged to complement the regional character of the route, typically in comfortable hotels and guesthouses that reflect local style.
Bookings are subject to availability and terms set by Ride & Seek. Travelers should review the itinerary, inclusions, and any entry or visa requirements for the countries visited. Insurance that covers cycling and international travel is recommended.