To coincide with World Car Free Day today, Intrepid Travel has launched a brand new range of Real Cycling Adventures that combine leisure activity with unique, grassroots experiences that are only accessible on two-wheels. The new tour range will be fully carbon offset and begin departures in 2017, the UN Year of Sustainable Tourism.

The Real Cycling Adventures, which are offered in 17 destinations, will break ground on new trails in some of the world's top cycling regions. Travellers will be among the world's first tour group to cycle in Tanzania's Arusha National Park and to conquer a newly minted route on Japan's Noto Peninsula.

“These tours will introduce the world to travel experiences never before seen in the cycling community,” says Frank Cheshire, Intrepid Travel's newly appointed Cycling Product Manager. “There are several iconic 'firsts' all over the world and the commitment to authentic, local experiences is something we have embedded into every single itinerary.”

From cycling alongside the Indein Buddhist pagoda in Myanmar to a Maasai guided ride into the heartlands of Tanzania, the Real Cycling Adventures stay true to Intrepid's immersive style of travel. Other highlights include riding through tea plantations in the Sri Lankan village of Giragama and a chance to navigate Andalucia's iconic Spanish architecture.

The trips are not just for the 'lycra-army' and welcome all physical abilities; from veteran cyclists to people who just like to slow down and take it easy on two-wheels. Most trips also have a support vehicle available, for when travellers need to take a break.

In line with Intrepid's commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, proceeds from all Real Cycling Adventures booked will be donated to Bicycles for Humanity, which helps send unused bikes to impoverished communities in the developing world. All donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar by The Intrepid Foundation, which has distributed over $5 million to projects all over the world since 2002.

“The innovation from a responsible business standpoint is truly what sets these tours apart” adds Cheshire. “Being able to launch a completely carbon-neutral tour range that will truly benefit local communities around the world is something that we are incredibly proud of.”

The Real Cycling Adventures have been launched to help meet the growing demand for more active holidays. This past year Intrepid Travel saw a 54% increase in bookings on their active trips, with trekking and cycling among their top sellers. The new tours will range from 7-15 days with a maximum group size of 12 travellers. Bicycles and basic cycling gear are provided along with all accommodations, most meals and activities.

The new range of Intrepid's Real Cycling Adventures include: Cycle Myanmar, Cycle Tanzania, Cycle Andalucia (Spain), Cycle Central America, Cycle Japan, Cycle Sri Lanka, Cycle Vietnam, Cycle Cuba, Cycle Indochina, Cycle South India , Cycle Morocco, Cycle Southern Thailand, Cycle Croatia, Cycle Tuscany, Cycle Central Europe (Danube), Cycle France (Provence), Cycle South Africa.

Ride the world with Intrepid Travel's new Real Cycling Adventures in 2017. For more information, visit www.intrepidtravel.com/cycling

ENDS

For more information, interviews and images please contact Kate Parker, Australia & New Zealand PR Manager on Kate.Parker@intrepidtravel.com or +61 (0)481 009 149.

About Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company that has been taking travellers off the beaten track to discover the world's most amazing places for 27 years. It offers more than 1,000 trips in more than 100 countries and on every continent. Every trip is designed to truly experience local culture - to meet local people, try local food, take local transport and stay in local accommodation. Award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and included activities mean they offer travellers great value for money. www.intrepidtravel.com