Our 2026 Resolutions as a Conde Nast Traveller Top Travel Specialist
Condé Nast Traveller has once again given us the honour of being named one of their top travel specialists for 2026. In their latest global round-up, they looked at the specialists who trade in the "unGooglable." Recognising experts in their fields who open doors to destinations and experiences that would otherwise remain locked to the everyday traveller, and who guide guests to the true heart of a place with sensitivity and care to the locals and the land.
Being recognised for our achievements and hard work at the end of 2025 was a wonderful moment to pause and appreciate. But now, at the start of 2026, a year of new destinations, experiences, returning and new guests, it also gives us something to reflect on. As our founder, Oli, said, "I will commit to us doing the same things we've always done. Working really hard, ensuring our guests have an amazing opportunity for cultural exchange and for immersion in new places."
Redefining New Year's Resolutions
The start of a new year is usually synonymous with change, time for 'new me' style resolutions and radical shifts in direction. But at The Slow Cyclist, we are turning that idea on its head. Instead of searching for a new version of ourselves, we are entering 2026 by doubling down on the values that have defined us since Oli first dreamed of cycling journeys with a difference amongst the mountains of Rwanda and the Enchanted Saxon Villages of Transylvania.
We are not committing to change. Instead, we are committing to maintaining excellence and upholding the values that ensure travelling with us remains a force for good. Conde Nast Traveller commends us for steering clear of the "cookie-cutter" nature of traditional cycling tours and focusing instead on off-the-beaten-path destinations. We resolve to continue to uphold this standard, pairing what Conde Nast Traveller calls, "local food and authentic hospitality" with "civilised creature comforts" to create deeply immersive travel experiences.
Care for the Planet
The core of our philosophy is to care for the planet, both the land and its people. To us, this means making the most of today to protect tomorrow. By immersing our guests sustainably and with the support and guidance of locals in the wonder of their cultures, we ensure these life-changing moments never cost the planet.
This is not just a sentiment; it is something we practice in all of our destinations. Whether we are cycling through the fields and villages of Armenia, walking through the Mani Peninsula in Greece, or supporting the TOFT tigers charity through our India trip, we travel with a light footprint and will continue to look for ways to do more for the landscapes, wildlife and people that host us.
Community & Connection
The Slow Cyclist was born as an antidote to the mass-market travel sector. We have always believed that slow, sustainable travel, whether on a bike or on foot, has the unique power to change lives - that's why we call our trips journeys, not cycling holidays. We cherish personal relationships and strengthen our cross-cultural bonds by respecting and supporting everyone who enters our community.
From Poland to India, we have met communities and characters that have fundamentally changed our perspective. By buying local and staying local, we ensure that everyone involved feels a beneficial influence from our presence. We are committed to making these connections whilst remaining in a positive relationship with all our stakeholders, from our UK employees to local honey producers in Greece.
Dedication to Excellence Through Action: Our Charity Work
Our commitment to these values extends beyond the handlebars. For us, upholding excellence means making sure that our success directly supports the people and places we touch. To celebrate our 10-year anniversary, we committed to raising £100,000 for 10 charities connected with the work we do in the UK, Europe and beyond. With the help of our amazing community, we're almost there and plan to raise even more in 2026.
A huge thank you to Conde Nast Traveller for continuing to recognise our work and including us in their top travel specialists. To read the article in full follow this link:
Conde Nast Traveller's Top Travel Specialists To Know Right Now
In 2026 we promise more deep connections, more exceptional shared experiences, and a continued, unwavering commitment to the communities that make our journeys possible. Explore our full range of 2026 journeys to see how these values come to life on the road.
