This week we feature a subsection of travel that we don't talk about very often and that is group travel. Here at J5Travel, group travel means focusing on the higher end with small groups (likely no more than 18 guests) experiencing incredible itineraries with like-minded travelers. Our top-seller and best reviewed small group tour supplier is Backroads. Every single trip we have booked clients on has received rave reviews. Why? It's simple. The itineraries are exciting, the organisation is seamless, and the accommodation and experiences are as good as they get.
Backroads have the following tour categories: Biking, Walking & Hiking, Multi-Adventure, Glamping, Women's Adventures, Dolce Tempo, and different family trip types. They offer tours in over 100 destinations worldwide, spanning 6 continents and 57 countries/territories and for 2026 they are adding 30 NEW tours to bring them to a total of around 300 different itineraries.
This week we feature just 5 of their NEW 2026 itineraries.
1. Call of the Canaries (Multi-Adventure) | Volcanic Trails & Tropical Retreats
From golden beaches and lush valleys to snow-dusted peaks and moon-like dunes, Spain's Canary Islands are a tapestry of must-explore landscapes. Hike volcanic summits, kayak under soaring basalt cliffs and kick back at chic hotels. Every step along the way is infused with the archipelago's rich cultural fusion of African, European and ancient Guanche traditions.
2. Japan - Nikko National Park to Kyoto's Timeless Temples | (Multi-Adventure)
Japan's moment in the travel spotlight is right now, but Backroads have been perfecting active travel here for years, the Backroads way...
Walk a forest trail in Nikko. Pedal along Izu's dramatic coast. Choose next-level luxurious premiere stays (some of the country's finest). They will take you where the big buses don't: to quiet ryokans, mountainside temples and hidden corners of Kyoto. Let this be your moment too!
3. Australia's Tasmania | (Walking & Hiking)
Wildlife, Wilderness & Wine from Mountains to Sea
The (Tasmanian) devil is in the details. Here those details look like hikes along windswept coastlines and through ancient rain forests. Days of thrilling adventure balanced out by plush hotels, local Pinot and maybe a wallaby or two. If you travel to the other side of the world, Backroads will make it well worth the trip.
4. Swiss Alps to Italy's Lake Como (Walking & Hiking) | High Peaks, Lakes & Luxuries from St Moritz to Varenna
Switzerland's unsung east has a colorful flair. Why wouldn't it with a native Romance language and Italy just next door? Alpine dolce vita awaits as you link dreamy Lake St Moritz with lush Lake Como. Welcome to the border-hopping Alpine adventure you never knew you needed.
5. Cyprus (Biking) | Cyclist's Paradise at the Crossroads of Greek & Turkish Cultures
Peloton, saddle up. Backroads are heading to a new Mediterranean isle. One rich in the region's signatures: ancient civilizations, garden-fresh cuisine, azure waters and...epic climbs. But cyprus's fascinating Eastern influences and the warm welcome of its locals lend it an enchantment all its own. It's one of Europe's best-kept riding secrets. Let's roll.
It’s an experience that will leave you feeling inspired, deeply connected, and forever changed. Whether you're dreaming of a wellness retreat, a family milestone celebration, or an unforgettable trip with friends, we’re here to make it seamless—and extraordinary. Let’s start planning your next unforgettable journey together. Click the button below to get started.
Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I absolutely love travel and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.