There is a growing trend towards active holidays and as Australians return to Europe in growing numbers, many are upgrading the classic barge cruise with a new twist: the bicycle.
Bike and Barge holidays, where travellers cycle each day and stay aboard a floating hotel each night, are surging in popularity, offering an active yet relaxed alternative to traditional river cruising.
The trend reflects a broader shift in the way Australians want to travel: slowing down, staying active, and experiencing Europe more intimately.
"It’s an effortless way to explore," says Kate Baker, general manager at UTracks, a specialist in small-group active holidays.
"You cycle as much or as little as you like during the day, then come home to a warm meal and your own cabin; no bags to move, no rushing around, just pure travel enjoyment."
On a typical Bike and Barge tour, travellers can cycle scenic paths through vineyards, farmland, and historic towns by day, and return to their barge, a cosy vessel carrying between 12-140 guests, each evening for relaxed communal meals and sunset drinks on deck.
With the same cabin each night, there’s no need to pack and unpack, and no long coach transfers interrupting the flow of the journey.
“More Australians are choosing to add this active element to their river cruise experience,” Baker says. “It’s a way to stay healthy on holiday, while also creating more memorable and personal encounters, whether that’s chatting with a local in a village square or stopping spontaneously at a market or café.”
With electric bikes available, the holidays are accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. Now you are talking!
Here are some suggested UTracks Bike and Barge options open for 2026 bookings.
The Danube by Bike & Barge
Cycle along the Danube River, discovering charming Austrian villages, grand riverside castles, and vibrant cultural hubs between Passau and Vienna. Gentle, scenic cycling routes lead to baroque abbeys, vineyards, and the historic heart of the Habsburg Empire.
https://www.utracks.com/Austria/Bike-Boat/The-Danube-by-Bike-Boat
Amsterdam to Bruges Bike & Barge
Journey through the Netherlands and Belgium, cycling past windmills, vibrant tulip fields (in season), and canal-laced cities. Each night, a comfortable barge awaits, docked near bustling market squares or picturesque waterways.
https://www.utracks.com/Netherlands/Bike-Boat/Amsterdam-to-Bruges-Bike-Barge-Comfort
Veneto Bike & Barge
Cycle through the stunning landscapes of Italy’s Veneto region, from the enchanting city of Venice along the canals and waterways of the Po River. The route offers a mix of Renaissance architecture, fantastic food and wine, and serene country trails.
https://www.utracks.com/Italy/Bike-Boat/Veneto-Bike-Boat
Provence Bike & Barge
Follow in the footsteps of great artists as you cycle through Provence’s lavender fields, vineyards, and historic villages. The route passes through the Rhône Valley, with opportunities to sample local wines and Provençal delicacies before returning to the comfort of your barge.
https://www.utracks.com/France/Bike-Boat/Provence-Bike-Boat
Tulip Tour Bike & Barge
Cycling through the tulip capital of the world while based on board a comfortable river barge. The journey takes in springtime highlights including the world's largest flower gardens of Keukenhof in Lisse, where plants such as hyacinths, crocuses and, of course, tulips will dazzle with their colour.
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