What is included in a bike tour?
A question worth asking before you book
What exactly are you paying for? It's a fair question, and one that's worth answering clearly rather than leaving to the fine print.
Here is a full breakdown of what's included in a Crusade private bike tour — and what isn't.
What is always included
The bike. Every tour includes a quality city bike. You don't need to bring your own, arrange a rental separately, or worry about the condition of the equipment. The bikes are ready at the start of the tour.
The e-bike option. For the longer countryside tours — particularly the day tour to het Zwin at 34 kilometres — an e-bike is available. This is included as an option; mention it when you book and it will be arranged.
The guide. Every Crusade tour is led by Xavier — a licensed city guide based in Bruges, active since 2018. Not a replacement, not a different guide depending on availability. The expertise, the local knowledge, and the historical depth are part of what you're booking.
The helmet. Helmets are provided and included with every bike.
The route. The route is planned, tested, and guided from start to finish. You don't follow a map or a GPS track — you follow a guide who knows exactly where he's going and why.
What is included per tour
- Guided ride along the Damse Vaart canal (approximately 15 km there and back)
- Guided walking tour through Damme including the Gothic Town Hall, the ruins of Sint-Salvatorkerk, and the stories of Jacob van Maerlant and Tijl Uilenspiegel
- Free time at the market square of Damme to enjoy a drink or a bite at your own expense
City bike tour through Bruges
- 3.5-hour guided ride through the city centre, covering both the celebrated landmarks and the lesser-known streets and corners
- Historical and cultural commentary throughout
- Guided ride through the Bruges polder landscape (34 km)
- E-bike included
- Guided stop at het Zwin with explanation of the historic sea entrance and the current nature reserve
What is not included
Personal expenses beyond the included stops — additional food, drinks, entrance fees to museums or attractions visited along the way.
Transport to the meeting point — the tour starts in Bruges. Getting yourself to the starting point is your own arrangement.
Gratuities — not included and never expected, but always appreciated if the tour exceeded your expectations.
Practical things to bring yourself
- Comfortable clothing suited to the weather — layers in spring and autumn, sun protection in summer
- Closed shoes — cycling in sandals or flip-flops is not recommended
- A small backpack or bag for personal items, a camera, or a light jacket
- Water — particularly for the longer countryside tours
Group size and booking
All tours are private. Your group, your pace, your questions. Up to 20 people per tour.
Tours are available year-round, subject to availability. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly in spring and summer when demand is highest.
Book your private bike tour
→ Book your cycling tour to Damme → Book your city bike tour through Bruges → Book your e-bike day tour to het Zwin
Questions about what's included or how to prepare? Get in touch — I'll answer personally and quickly.