Hudson Valley, NY Bike Tour
per person
Hudson Valley National Heritage Area NY Bike Tour
Upstate New York’s Hudson River Valley
We’ll let you in on a secret: the bicycling in New York’s mid and upper Hudson Valley is some of the best to be found anywhere. Recreational and avid cyclists alike treasure this network of quiet country roads offering views of open farm country, the distant Catskill Mountains and the wide Hudson River. The landscape feels very much like that in nearby Vermont, but with gentler terrain. Join us in touring some of the most picturesque routes in the Hudson Valley.
World-Class Restaurants, Wineries, Horse Farms and Fertile Farmland
If you are a foodie, you will love this tour. The Hudson River Valley is known for restaurants owned by world-class chefs. At night, enjoy dinners at some of the region’s top restaurants. By day, travel through fertile countryside, past idyllic dairy and agricultural farms, traversing manicured fields where horses, sheep and alpaca roam. Pedal through orchards to hilltop vineyards with long-range views. Taste several of the region’s award-winning wines, some of which have graced White House dinners. Sample artisanal cheeses, fresh fruits and heirloom vegetables by day, and feast on gourmet dinners each night filled with food from the very farms we’ve cycled past and prepared by the region’s finest chefs.
Mansions and Gardens
The bike tour of New York’s Hudson Valley includes visits to preeminent historical sites as well. Ramble through stately mansions built for the Livingstons, Vanderbilts and Roosevelts. See formal gardens designed by some of America’s foremost landscape architects and stroll the grounds at these stunning riverfront estates. Walk to a bluff with sweeping views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains, a setting said to have inspired the writing of Washington Irving.
Exciting Towns
Explore funky, chic Hudson, home to 65 antique shops, stellar art galleries and world-class restaurants. A walk down Hudson’s Warren Street, described as a “dictionary of American architectural design,” is like a walk down through the centuries as you near the river. Feel the palpable excitement of Hudson’s recent renaissance.
Historic Places
Casually elegant Rhinebeck, another stop on the New York bike tour, is a charming village listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy the beautiful architecture of the historic homes, period barns and carriage houses while walking to lovely shops and restaurants. Watch for old hitching posts and carriage stepping stones too.
Wine, Art, History and Superb Cycling
The ridges, valleys, and plateaus framing the Hudson River create a spectacular setting, one that inspired a whole new art movement – The Hudson River School of Art. Great Freedom Adventures’ bike tour of New York’s Hudson Valley National Heritage Area will immerse you in the beauty, history, art, wine and cuisine of this remarkable region.
Tour Highlights:
- Stay at fine historic inns including the oldest continuously operating inn in the country
- Gourmet dinners prepared by talented chefs with fresh, local produce
- Dinner at the renowned Culinary Institute of America
- Cycling on beautiful country roads past manicured horse farms, picturesque sheep, and agricultural farms, alongside centuries old stone walls
- Vineyard tours and wine tastings
- A scenic river cruise past a historic lighthouse
- Visit to Olana, Frederic Church’s Persian masterpiece of architecture
- Charming villages
- Hike at Poet’s Walk, Washington Irving’s inspiration for “Rip Van Winkle” with spectacular views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains
- Visits to FDR’s Home and Museum, Eleanor Roosevelt’s tranquil Val-Kill, and the impressive Vanderbilt Mansion
- Experience the ethereal light of a landscape that inspired a whole new art movement – the Hudson River School of Art
- Explore the mansions, grounds, and gardens of Montgomery Place, Wilderstein, and Staatsburg at will
- Immersion in a fragrant landscape of vineyards and orchards
- Antique shops and art galleries galore
- Historic architecture
Tour Reviews & Testimonials
“I highly recommend a Great Freedom Adventure! A New England fall bike tour had been on my “bucket list” for years. My wife and I toured the Hudson Valley during peak leaf season with Great Freedom Adventures. I was simply blown away by the meticulous planning that went into our tour! The accommodations were superb and the restaurants were outstanding. Each dinner was better than the one before and the last one was one of the best meals I have ever had. The cue sheets and maps were meticulous and the guides were highly qualified and helpful. The beauty and serenity of the routes was inspiring and the views of the Catskills were magnificent. And, the SAG wagon was always close by with snacks and goodies. If it is possible for a “do over” on a “Bucket List”, like General McArthur–I shall return!”
Pruett B.
“Simply the best – better than all the rest! We had a great time!”
Michael & Dell A.
“Carol and I really enjoyed our bike trip experience with Great Freedom Adventure tours! The trip itself was wonderful and the scenery the leaves the weather everything was absolutely perfect. I absolutely loved that I got all this attention every day with fresh water – my odometer being recalibrated – my tires checked and everything about my bike being maintained and looked over. The location was epic and there were so many beautiful places that I enjoyed that I’m looking forward to exploring this area of New York State again! The guides were absolutely phenomenal! They really made the trip very special with all the special stories and antidotes they shared about each location as they prepped us for the day ahead. They were also super relaxed about letting each participant be where they were in pushing themselves to go further if they wanted to. Their professionalism and demeanor throughout the entire trip really made the experience extraordinary. The tour was fabulous and we thank GFA for putting together such a wonderful experience! I happily recommend Great Freedom Adventures!”
Loren M.
“I had an absolutely wonderful time on the Hudson Valley tour this month! The biking was marvelous (aided by the perfect weather and foliage – thank you for orchestrating that, Jeanne!), as were all the fabulous activities, restaurants, and both inns. Our tour leaders could not have been more attentive, fun, or patient. They were everywhere at all times ensuring that we had a great time. And my fellow cyclists – they were the best! Hope to see our guides and our new cycling friends on another Great Freedom Adventures trip!”
Joanne W.
“We had a wonderful week of cycling through the beautiful Hudson Valley with Great Freedom Adventures. The well-planned routes were scenic, virtually traffic free, and doable for all comers while also providing enough challenge for advanced cyclists. The accommodations were high end charming and the restaurants were superb. Our only complaint is that the food was so good, we gained weight! We enthusiastically recommend Great Freedom Adventures for east coast cycling!”
Sharon and Rob M.
“Fantastic trip, great locations and very well run. The cycling routes were excellent, with very high quality cue sheets and maps. The folks at Great Freedom Adventures took special care arranging the meals. All of the dining was memorable and the meal on the last evening was one of the best I’ve ever had.”
Peter S.
“What a great trip the Arthurs and our friends had biking the Hudson Valley with Great Freedom Adventures! We have traveled with other companies and yours is right up there with the best. The trip was every bit as terrific as promised. Our two guides were superb in every regard. They were always accommodating, they were nimble on their feet and anticipated our every need. They are both skilled professionals and made our trip incredibly memorable. The choices of sights, restaurants and lodging were all outstanding. Great memories!”
Michael A.
“My wife and I had a delightful 6-day bike trip in the Hudson River Valley with Great Freedom Adventures. The trip was beautifully planned, the guides could not have been more competent nor more delightful company. They anticipated and accommodated everyone’s needs so smoothly. The places we stayed were delightful and we enjoyed staying in places for a couple of days. The routes, the historic sites and tours and accommodating everyone’s interests while staying on schedule was wonderful. I would recommend Great Freedom Adventures to anyone for its well thought out itinerary, great execution of a really interesting tour and great competitive price. It was a great trip!”
Mike M.
“We just completed GFA’s Hudson Valley bike tour. We thought the historical stops, lodging and restaurants were all excellent. I also loved the morning snack stops and all of the dinner spots were amazing. I enjoyed the impromptu stop at the apple orchard on the last day. Our guides were amazing– so helpful in every way and skilled at bike repair. Nothing was a bother for them. They were very knowledgeable about the history of the area and the natural environment, which was important to me. This was one of my bucket list adventures, and I had a great time!”
Kathy V.
“Our tour guides were spectacular and bent over backwards to please us and help us where necessary. We all found them to be among the best we have ever experienced and each of them is remarkably organized and capable. The itineraries were beautifully laid out and I enjoyed each of the sites we visited. History revisited is always a plus for me! Our souvenir bike jerseys are wonderful!”
Dory & Isaac S.
“It was a great (Hudson Valley) trip. Your guides were outstanding. I have taken 5 or 6 guided bike tours and they were the best guides I have had. The concern for client safety and comfort were exceptional. Really liked the Beekman Arms Lodge and the fact that we stayed a few days.”
Stan V.
“Friends and I went on Great Freedom Adventure’s Hudson Valley ride this past October. We had a fantastic time! The routes and scenery were beautiful, with excellent fall foliage. The guides were friendly, helpful and accommodating. And the lodging and restaurants they chose were superb. Bikes were great also. I highly recommend Great Freedom Adventures.”
Gail W.
“I just want to personally thank you for everything. I KNOW that what made this such a successful adventure went on behind the scene and tours such as this don’t just happen. I don’t know if others realized how much effort goes into creating detailed routes, reservations during peak season at B&B’s and restaurants so everything goes off without a glitch. I think I have an inkling and I say ‘Job well done!.’”
Pruett B.
“Hudson Valley was great! Could not have asked for any better guides. The accommodations, meals, sights and flexibility of our guides – well – it could not have been any better. The group of bikers on the trip – I think Jeanne hand-picked them. What a great group of people! It was fun hearing stories about livelihoods, families, and travel adventures. I cannot think of a time where there was a lack of conversation. It would be great to bike with any or “all” of them again.
Richard F.
“The views on our Hudson Valley tour were spectacular and I enjoyed the stops and visits to the various points of interest. The dinner restaurants were all fabulous. Our guides were caring, thoughtful and went above and beyond. They were exceptional.”
Marie F.
“Our Hudson Valley Bike Tour was a wonderful experience. Thank you! Our guides were just terrific! Couldn’t have asked for a better vacation. We will be sure to go on another Great Freedom Adventure trip in the future. Your being able to coordinate these tours is simply amazing. I couldn’t imagine any other guides being able to top the ones we had. Rich and I will look back on this vacation with the fondest of memories. We are already trying to figure out when our next trip will be. Thank you for this gift. It was just what the doctor ordered!”
Eileen N.
“What an amazing, wonderful and memorable trip! The guides went above and beyond all expectations!”
Judy & Arnie F
“I am very grateful to have had such a fun and relaxing trip. Not only do I feel refreshed and de-stressed, I am motivated to go and ride more. The guides’ knowledge, professionalism and thoughtfulness really made the trip a success.”
Irene L.
“Aloha. Our trip of the Hudson Valley was totally awesome! Our tour guides were excellent. They were considerate of everyone’s abilities and adjusted if needed. They had a great sense of humor as well! Many wonderful memories! Until we ride with you again – aloha.”
Deb & Ken P.
“We loved the beautiful scenery and routes and the planned visits to historical sites and other places of interest on our Hudson River Valley tour. We loved the restaurants especially the Italian one in Hudson. We loved the restaurant and inn choices. The bikes were high quality and in excellent working order. The guides were great! They were friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and accommodating. We really enjoyed the group of riders. They were easy going and got along very well.”
Denise G.
“Absolutely marvelous trip!”
Bob & Bonnie L
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Day 5

Day 6

The Barlow Hotel, Hudson, NY - 2 NightsThe Barlow is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Hudson. Step outside and be in the midst of fine antique stores, unique shops, and world-class dining and entertainment. The Art Deco building retains period architectural details while indulging guests in contemporary comfort. Enjoy the hotel’s clean lines, crisp linens and designer baths as well as fine artwork by talented local artists.

2021 Dates
July 11-16 | August 22-27 | October 17-22
2021 Prices
$3,295, per person based on double occupancy. Single Supplement $895.
Trip Length
6 days, 5 nights
Start/Finish
Hudson, NY
Cycling Level
Easy to Moderate
Daily mileage
15-38 (Longer options: 15-55)
Terrain
Flat sections as well as rolling hills. Some hills may be steep but they are generally short. Occasional sections of dirt road.
Bikes: You may bring your own bike or use one of ours. GFA bikes are high quality, lightweight, available with either drop or straight handlebars and are equipped with computer, mirror, waterbottle, handlebar bag, map case and seat pack with essentials. What's Included:
- 6 days of bicycling
- Bicycle and helmet rental
- 5 nights lodging
- 5 breakfasts
- 3 dinners
- 2 lunches
- Narrated River Cruise with wine or beer
- 2 dedicated guides
- Van support (for you and your treasures found along the way too)
- Daily snacks and cold drinks
- Maps and cue sheets for each day's ride
- Luggage transport
- Admission to:
- Olana
- The Vanderbilt Mansion
- Springwood, FDR's home
- FDR Museum
- Poet's Walk
- Vineyard tours and wine tastings
- Gardens and grounds walks at historic estates
- Tax and gratuities for meals and side excursions
- Transport from/to the Albany Airport or Hudson Train Station
- Featherweight, high visibility, reflective mesh vest
- Waterbottle