Austin

I am considering a trip to Spain and checking out both of these companies. I like walking/hiking/exploring. Backroads seems to be more challenging- which I like - but Roads Scholar more reasonably priced. Any experience with either company? Or is there one I have overlooked?

Doh

I have a friend who has had very good experiences with Wilderness Travel but my impression is that they are on the more expensive side.

Robert2533

Neither are local Spanish companies, so they would be working with local guides in most cases. You can also check out the local tourist boards to see what's available and offered by local companies.

http://www.turismo.navarra.es
http://www.turismodearagon.com
http://www.principadodeasturias.com
http://www.turgalicia.es

lauren_s_kahn

I went to both Chile and Russia with Road Scholar when it was called Elderhostel and was quite satisfied with those two tours. Obvioiusly, I cannot speak to your proposed Spain trip.

LizE

I'm a big fan of Backroads! They actually always employ local guides in the region where their trips run and don't subcontract. Instead they hire local experts to complement their guides. While you might find them pricier than some companies, you also get what you pay for. Have you heard about their deluxe picnics?! You can talk with their customer service people when inquiring about trips and they will tell you everything they know about the group make up, level of challenge, etc. Have fun in Spain with whatever company you go with, you'll love it!

travelhorizons

Backroads is pricey, but it's an incredible experience. Really nice places to stay. You order off the menu when you eat in restaurants, and it's all included! I've been on four Backroads trip and would be happy to give more feedback.

Austin

Backroads does seem head and shoulders above the others. All of their trips seem amazing. Liz and travelh, which trips have you taken with them?

Callebaut

Backroads is wonderful but pricey. I did a trip in the U.S. about 10 years ago and loved it.

For Europe, there are several less expensive options, particularly if you can do without all the Backroads' bells and whistles. I went to Mallorca in 2010 through Ramblers, a UK company and loved it. With Ramblers, you'll likely be the only North Americans on the trip but that was part of the fun.

http://www.ramblersholidays.co.uk/.

HF Holidays is another UK company though I haven't traveled through them.