Cycling aus aw 2015 by AdvWorld

CYCLING HOLIDAYS - Australian Edition 2015 -16 WHERE ADVENTURE BEGINS

Your agent

Phone: 1300 363 055 info@adventureworld.com.au www.adventureworld.com

where adventure begins

This brochure is printed on FSC accredited paper from sustainable forests, planted for the purpose. If you decide you do not wish to keep our brochure, please recycle it by passing it to a friend or travel agent. Brochure published by Exodus Travels Ltd. Produced by Exodus. Designed by www.parker-design.co.uk. Printed by Artifishal. ÂŠ2014 Exodus Travels (Reg. No. 1150160).

CYCLING HOLIDAYS 2015-16

where adventure begins

One world,

two wheels

The Exodus team lives and breathes biking. You can spot our cycling specialists all over the world, from Head of Product Andy Ross devouring the South African miles on the Cape Argus Cycle Tour (p61) to our sales team meandering through the vineyards of the Loire Valley (p81). Our adventures range from peaceful riverside rides to tackling the same thigh-burning routes as the professionals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a Sunday cyclist looking for a little extra sun or a serious adrenaline junkie, we have a carefully crafted two-wheeled adventure with your name on it.

Contents Where adventure begins

4-5

Your ride, your way

6-7

Cycling expertise

8-9

Ready to go?

10-11

Road Contents

12-13

Iceland, Baltics

14-15

Spain

16-17

Italy

18-24

Central Europe

25-27

Albania, Greece, Turkey

28-30

Jordan, Africa

31-34

Americas

35-41

South East Asia, China

42-47

India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Tibet

48-53

Drop Bars Contents

54-55

France

56-60

South Africa Off Road Contents

62-63

Central Europe

64-65

Turkey, Jordan, Africa

66-70

Americas 71 Mongolia, Tibet

72-73

Self-Guided Contents

74-77

Spain, France

78-86

Italy

87-92

Central Europe

93-94

Cover Photograph: The road to Benje, Albania. Page 28. Main Photograph: The Cape Peninsula, South Africa. Page 61.

adventure begins 97

of our travellers would recommend Exodus to friends *

of our travellers think that we design and operate our trips to benefit the local community and environment *

of our travellers say our leaders met or exceeded expectations*

4.7 out of 5

Exodus has always believed in providing exciting, adventurous and sensitively run holidays. We strive to support local businesses, keep money in the local economy and create jobs, whilst caring for the natural environments and local cultures we visit. We recognise that everywhere is someone else’s home, and encourage our travellers to think the same.

Top tips for travelling responsibly on your Cycling Holiday: · Take water bottles – plastic bottles are difficult to recycle. Our support vehicles always carry safe refills so we encourage you to take reusable water bottles or bladders. · Spend locally – when you spend your money at locally owned enterprises you support and invest in the community you’re visiting. · Dress appropriately – our trips often visit rural communities where wearing appropriate clothing, covering shoulders and knees for example, shows respect.

· Value local resources – many places we visit struggle with resources like water and energy consumption. Simple acts such as turning off the tap while you clean your teeth, or the air conditioning whilst you’re out make a big difference. · Read up before you go – detailed and specific information about your trip can be found in Trip Notes, which you can download online.

Main Photograph: Anti Atlas Mountains, Morocco. Page 68.

Where

Travelling Responsibly

In addition to travelling responsibly, you may like to learn more about our various projects where we aim to help the communities and environments we visit. We support educational and environmental projects in Tanzania, Nepal and India, both financially and practically, and if you would like to know more or would like to donate to one of our projects please contact your agent.

Average trip rating based on the last 100 online customer reviews

* Based on feedback from 2014 up until the time of publication

For more than 40 years Exodus has been crafting and perfecting adventures. We began in 1974 with two men and one dream: to drive an overland truck full of adventurers deep into the Hindu Kush, an area bordering on inaccessible, to stand awestruck at the foot of the Minaret of Jam. Today, our horizons have expanded: 450 itineraries, 90 countries, all seven continents. What hasn’t changed is our vision. An Exodus adventure is a life-changing, invigorating escape from the ordinary. Isn’t it time you saw the world differently?

Cycling Styles

Activity Levels

Road

p 12

Drop Bars

Each ride is given an activity level, to help you choose a trip appropriate to your ability and requirements.

1 LEISURELY

Off Road

p62

Head off the beaten track and hit the trails where Exodus’ passion for cycling holidays began. Trips vary from dirt roads to steep, rocky trails and the 1 terrain can often be mountainous – a sure test for the fitness levels. Challenging trips necessitate some off road experience.

Self-Guided

p74

Exodus uses small, often family-run accommodation in keeping with the surroundings. We use a mix of pleasant hotels, picturesque campsites and unique, traditional accommodation. You could be staying in a 14th Century castle hotel with a 4-star rating (page 79), a quirky cave hotel carved from the mountainside (page 91) or slumbering on the Kerala canals on a converted houseboat (page 49). Each one has been carefully selected for great locations and welcoming atmospheres. PREMIUM

Premium Adventures offer extra style and comfort. Hotels have been handpicked for their luxurious qualities and may be renowned for their cuisine. For upgraded accommodation, we also offer Premium Departures on some of our most popular trips. Main Photograph: Terai near Chitwan, Nepal. Page 52.

your way

Go your own way, at your own pace with detailed route notes and maps to help guide you. We sort out your accommodation and transfer your luggage ahead, leaving you to free to cycle where you fancy.

Accommodation

Your ride,

Look for the

3 MODERATE

Pick up the pace and set your pulse racing on our range of Drop Bars trips. Experienced riders will relish the opportunity to take on some of the most iconic1 roads in cycle 2 racing, or the 3 challenge 4 of a cyclosportive such as the Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux or Cape Argus.

p54 1

Find Your Comfort Zone

The quintessential way to make the most of a destination on two wheels be it coasting through Costa Rica or biking in Burma. Our classic road rides don’t require technical riding skills so are ideal for cyclists of all levels, offering full vehicle support and an expert group leader.

P inFthe Dates & Price Guide on trip pages.

“You don’t have to worry about a thing as everything is taken care of. I have never done so much, saw so much and met so many nice people in such a short space of time.”

5 CHALLENGING

7 TOUGH

2 SPLIT GRADES

You are healthy, enjoy the outdoors and want a relaxing 2 trip. No routes 3 are completely 4 flat but the 5 hills will be gentle, mostly climbing less than 250m a day and daily distances rarely exceed 50km.

You are reasonably fit, enjoy the outdoors and are looking for some5exercise. These6are ideal for 7 4 occasional or weekend cyclists; off-road trips require no previous experience. Distances rarely exceed 70km per day.

At this level, fitness and a spirit of adventure are important – you need7to be confident 6 8 in your ability 9 and physical condition. Previous mountain biking experience is essential for off road trips at this level.

Previous experience and an interest in remote or challenging environments are crucial. 8 9 10 You need confidence both in your fitness and your technical ability on steep and challenging terrain, as well as long days in the saddle. Sometimes we use split grades, for a more accurate grading Leisurely/Moderate. 3 system, for example 4 5 6

More detailed information is available online: www.exodustravels.com/activity-levels

Vehicle Support A support vehicle accompanies most of our group cycling trips, carrying tools and spares as well as your luggage. It’s there to offer assistance or even a lift should you find yourself tiring - so you can be confident there’s back up when you book.

Small Group Adventures P F

Special families-only departures are available on our popular Cycle the Baltics trip (page 15). Look for the Family icon in the Dates & Price Guide. Minimum age 12 years. Alternatively why not take your family on a self-guided adventure? See page 77 for details.

P F Recommended departures for solo travellers. See the Dates & Price Guide on trip pages.

Private Groups • Travel in a group of your own choosing (minimum six people), with an Exodus guide leading the way • Customise a standard Exodus itinerary • Pick your own dates of travel • Perfect for a milestone birthday or a fundraising challenge

Want to find out more? Please call your agent.

Julie Armour, Cycling Vietnam. Page 44.

Exodus Cycle Jersey Get the look! As worn by our leaders, the high-tech Exodus cycling jersey is made from 100% SpeedPro advanced sweat-wicking fabric and has three handy pockets. They’re available in men’s and women’s cuts and are sold through Primal Europe for UK£45.

Cycling

www.exodustravels.com/cycle-jersey

Local Bike Hire While you may prefer the familiarity of your own bike, local bike hire is available on all trips with prices and models shown on each trip page. Typically these are good quality hybrid touring bikes or mountain bikes (racing bikes are only suitable for Drop Bars trips). Payment is made at time of booking. For extra comfort, you can bring your own saddle, gel cover or pedals.

Featured Leaders Sutinee ‘Nee’ Rasp

Winner of Best Newcomer in the Exodus Leader Awards, Nee is an experienced cyclist in her own right as well as an expert leader.

Want to travel with Nee? Turn to page 45

Freddy Camara

Always a huge hit on our Cuba tours, friendly and knowledgeable Freddy is an avid cyclist, photographer and bird-watcher.

Want to travel with Freddy? Turn to page 38

Michele Quaresimin

Hard-working Michele regularly receives 5-star reviews on our customer satisfaction surveys for his dedication and great sense of humour.

Want to travel with Michele? Turn to page 23

Main Photograph: Wadi Araba, Jordan. Page 32.

expertise

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

Booking Your Trip 1. Information In addition to the information in this brochure, detailed Trip Notes can be obtained from your agent and contain useful information about the itinerary, joining the group, visas and vaccinations, accommodation, food, weather and more.

to go?

Please call your agent to check space or provisionally hold a place on your chosen trip.

3. Booking & deposit Main Photograph: Col du Lautaret, France. Page 58.

Ready

2. Check availability

Payment and booking details can easily be taken over the phone or online. To confirm your booking a deposit of 10% (20% on Polar Cruises) of the cost of your holiday (min. UKÂŁ150 or equivalent) is required. Please ensure you read the Trip Notes, as they form an important part of the contract for your holiday.

4. Final payment The balance of your payment is due eight weeks before departure and you will be issued Final Joining Instructions 10-14 days before you travel.

Book Early

We strongly advise that you book your holiday as far in advance as possible. If you leave your booking too late, your trip may be full, or it may not be possible to obtain a seat on the group flights or at the group fare, or secure accommodation, visas or permits.

Brochure Prices

The prices in this brochure are correct at time of going to print on 09 September 2014 but should be treated as a guide only. Prices can fluctuate depending on flight availability, supplements and taxes, exchange rates and fuel costs. For full details and up-to-date prices, please call your agent. At Exodus, we remain committed to providing the best holiday experience at a fair price.

Adventure Club

All Exodus travellers are welcome in the Adventure Club, our pioneering loyalty club which celebrates our amazing community. Membership means you will get access to our range of loyalty reward discounts on future trips plus a whole host of other benefits, including exclusive partnership deals and priority access to booking offers. 5% your second to fifth trips inclusive

OFF

10% your sixth trip and all subsequent bookings OFF

For more information, visit our website www.exodustravels.com/loyalty-rewards

Road

It has been said that there’s no better way to see the world than from the saddle, and who are we to disagree? Low-impact, covering more distance than you would on foot and plenty of opportunities to pause for a chat with the locals, cycling is undoubtedly a great way to travel. Full vehicle support on most of our trips means you’ve got the backup in case you need it, and our expert cycling leaders will ensure everything runs smoothly.

TRIP NAME

TRIP CODE

Cycle Southern Iceland

ACTIVITY LEVEL PAGE

MSI

MVB

Cycle the Camino de Santiago

MWC

Rioja: Cycling & Wine

MWZ

Dolomites, Lake Garda & Venice Ride

MWD

MWI

Cycle the Baltics

Tuscany: Cycle Siena & Chianti Tuscany: Pisa to Cinque Terre Ride

MET

Cycle Cilento & Amalfi Coast

MWO

Cycling Puglia & Matera

MWV

Cycling in Sardinia

MWK

Cycling in Sicily

MWY

Prague to Budapest Ride

MVZ

Cycling through Croatia & Slovenia

MVI

Cycling the Dalmatian Coast

MVJ

Cycling in Albania

MVA

Cycling in Greece

MWH

MTI

MMI

MXW

Aegean Coast & Lakes Ride Cycle Morocco’s Great South Petra & Wadi Rum by Bike

NEW

Cycling the Cape & Winelands

MZC

Cycling Drakensberg & Kruger

MZD

Cycling California & the Pacific Coast

MAA

Cycle Mexico

MAM

NEW

Cuban Highlights Ride

MAC

Cycling Cuba

MAH

Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama

MUC

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

MUD

Cycling in Colombia

MAY

Burma by Bike

MOB

Cycling in Laos

MOL

Cycling Vietnam

MOV

Cycle Indochina & Angkor

MOC

Mekong Delta & Angkor Ride

MOA

NEW

Cycle the Backroads of China

MCA

NEW

MIJ

Cycle Kerala & Tropical India

MIK

Southern India Coast to Coast Ride

MIT

Cycling through Rajasthan

MIR

Classic Nepal Ride

MNN

Lhasa to Kathmandu Ride

MCT

Cycling the Backroads of Sri Lanka

Main Photograph: Kleifarvatn Lake, Iceland. Page 14.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

11 days land only

$3420

from

Kleifarvatn Lake, Reykjanes Peninsula

Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania

Cycle Southern Iceland

Activity Level

Iceland is one of the most geologically active countries on earth. The landscape is defined by vast black lava fields, towering glaciers, thundering waterfalls and erupting geysirs. The network of country roads provides an excellent framework for our two-wheeled journey, giving us access to some of the most impressive places in the south of the island including the infamous Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, the colourful mountains of Landmannalaugar and the thundering Skogafoss Waterfall. There are also a few welcome stops in thermal baths, a key Icelandic tradition. Add to this the changing landscapes and natural phenomena and you have an unforgettable week's ride.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide 20 Jun* 04 Jul 08 Aug

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

MSI

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 90% tarmac, 10% easy gravel roads • Mainly country roads, with some climbs and little traffic • Group normally 6 to 16 plus leader. Min age 16 yrs • 2 nights hotel, 3 nights guesthouses, 1 night farmhouse, 1 night mountain hut • All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners included

2 Drive from Reykjavik to Krisuvik Hot Springs; ride the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula to Selfoss. 3 Transfer to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in the foothills of the Eyjafjallajokull Volcano; ride to Skogafoss Waterfall and on to Solheimajokull Glacier; overnight in farmhouse.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $570/€400 • *24 hour daylight Local bike hire: Trek DS Touring bikes $220/€150, paid on booking

4 Ride along the south coast to Vik past sandy plains of glacial silt to the Skafta glacial river; transfer to Fjallabak area and mountain hut. ACCOMMODATION

ICELAND Thingvellir

Gullfoss

Reykjavik Reykjanes Selfoss Peninsula Krisuvik Seljalandsfoss Skogafoss cycling transfer

Eldgja

Vik

This trip uses a good tourist class hotel in Reykjavik for the first and last night of the trip and a combination of simple guesthouses, a farmhouse and a mountain hut for the nights in the country. As with everything in Iceland, accommodation is very expensive, so we have tried to choose places with prices that allow us to keep the holiday affordable and are in a suitable location for our rides. The accommodation in guesthouses consists of twin rooms, and one guesthouse has en suite facilities; the mountain hut has dormitory rooms with shared accommodation but is heated and of good quality.

Cycle the Baltics 7

5 Transfer to Eldgja through the spectacular Fjallabak region; ride down the Thjorsardalur Valley, stopping en route at traditional 'sod' farmhouse. 6 Ride through farmland up to Gullfoss Waterfall and on to Geysir and Laugarvatn. 7 Drive to Thingvellir N.P.; ride western side of Lake Thingvellir, across Mt Hengill and down to Reykjavik, stopping to visit thermal pools on the way.

Activity Level

Crossing Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, this ride will take you on a journey of discovery through historic cities, unspoilt countryside and along breathtaking coastline. Our trip will start in Tallinn where the fairytale architecture sets an enchanting scene. This will feature throughout the trip as we journey through Tartu, Riga, Trakai and Vilnius. Between the architectural highlights we will also enjoy some of the best cycling this region has to offer, through beautiful national parks and along idyllic coastal paths.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide 23 May 20 Jun 11 Jul 23 Jul 08 Aug 22 Aug 05 Sep 19 Sep

02 Jun 30 Jun 21 Jul 02 Aug 18 Aug 01 Sep 15 Sep 29 Sep

21 May

31 May

5 6 7

5 Cycle through 'Estonian Switzerland' to Otepaa before a transfer to Riga. 6 Cycle to Jurmala and transfer back to Riga for the night. 7 Transfer to Sventoji then cycle to Klaipeda.

Local bike hire: Dutch style town bikes $150, paid on booking

ACCOMMODATION Lahemaa N.P. Tallinn Lake Peipsi

ESTONIA Tartu

Cycle/drive

Otepaa Riga LATVIA

LITHUANIA

Trakai

Vilnius

75 60

P Premium F departure

• 9 days cycling with 70% vehicle support • 80% on quiet tarmac roads, 20% gravel paths • Flat route with some undulating roads • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 10 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

4 Transfer to Peipsi and cycle along the shore of the lake before a short transfer to Tartu.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $380/€280 • Family departure (parents with children only - min. age 12)

Silute

At a Glance

3 Full day riding through Lahemma N.P.

2016

Klaipeda Curonian Spit

MVB

2 Explore Tallinn then transfer to the Lahemaa N.P. for a scenic ride.

P F P F

Baltic Sea

1 Start Tallinn.

Sventoji

Daily Distance (km) 60 70 70

2 LEISURELY/MODERATE

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

Jurmala

8 End Reykjavik.

2 3 4

Cycle through three countries l Visit the fairytale Trakai Castle l Family departures available

2015

1 Start Reykjavik.

27 Jun 11 Jul 15 Aug

START

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

2015

Dramatic volcanic landscapes l Stunning coastal rides l Soak in thermal baths

$1900

Trakai Castle, Lithuania

Iceland

START

ROAD • ESTONIA, LATVIA, LITHUANIA

ROAD • ICELAND

8 days land only

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

We stay in a mixture of comfortable 3 and 4-star hotels, all with en suite facilities and in good locations. There are some fantastic hotels on this trip including one night at Palmse manor, a converted distillery set in magnificent grounds in the middle of the Lahemaa National Park.

8 A ferry ride across the lagoon before exploring the Curonian Spit N.P. by bike. 9 A short transfer to Kintai village then cycle to Vente Cape and Silute, transfer to Vilnius. 10 Transfer to Trakai; cycle around Trakai and visit Trakai Castle; return to Vilnius. 11 Free to explore Vilnius before the trip ends.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 6

37 55 56 48 39

7 43 8 63 9 37 10 25

from

8 days land only

$2000

from

Castrillo de los Polvazares

Spain PREMIUM DEPARTURES

Ride a historical pilgrimage route l Explore cathedrals and monasteries l Peaceful rural scenery

Activity Level

The Camino de Santiago de Compostela across northern Spain is one of the world's oldest pilgrimage routes. Also known as 'The Way of St James', it originated in the region of Galicia where the tomb of the Apostle James the Great was discovered in the 9th Century. The way is marked by the symbol of the scallop shell and the grooves that join together are said to represent the many different ways pilgrims travel to reach Santiago. It's the Gothic cathedrals, mediaeval monasteries and miles of beautiful rural scenery that make this section of the ancient route so popular for cycling.

Trip Code

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

MWC

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 75% vehicle support • 50% quiet minor roads, 50% mix of gravel roads and tracks • Some longer climbs are to be expected • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels and Casa Rurales • All breakfasts included

Dates & Price Guide START

04 Apr 02 May 23 May 13 Jun 18 Jul 05 Sep 26 Sep 17 Oct 26 Mar 30 Apr

Rioja: Cycling & Wine 7

P F

2 Ride across the plains of Castille through countryside and quaint villages to Astorga. 3 Climb into the mountains of Leon to the Monte de la Cruz de Ferro; descend to Molinaseca.

P F

4 Ride to Villafranca with views across the valleys of Galicia and mountains of Leon; long ascent to the village of O'Cebreiro.

02 Apr 07 May

Activity Level

La Rioja is a broad valley of undulating vineyards and craggy hills, where walled hilltop towns reflect the turbulent times of earlier centuries. Our exploration on two wheels starts in the beautiful city of Burgos, the historic capital of Castile. Following the Via Verde cycle route, we continue into the heart of the Demanda mountain range and reach the fertile land of La Rioja. Surrounded by vineyards, we cycle across the gentle rolling countryside and taste the excellent wines and food produced in the region.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

• Optional single supplement: from $310/€220 (Premium departures $520/€370)

02 May 20 Jun 12 Sep 10 Oct 14 May 11 Jun

SPAIN

Oviedo

Palas de Rei Sarria

CASTILLE

O‘Cebreiro

Local bike hire: Orbea Ravel hybrid bike with front suspension $160/€115, paid on booking

Leon

Molinaseca Astorga

5 Ride into the Rioja wine region and visit San Domingo de la Calzada, along the Camino de Santiago route; wine tasting and visit wine museum.

Bay of Biscay

6 Circular route along to Ebro River to the winery of Cune.

Bilbao

7 Ride through vineyards to the hilltop mediaeval town of Laguardia. 8 End Laguardia.

SPAIN

Daily Distance (km)

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

58 52 54

• 6 days cycling with 90% vehicle support • 60% quiet minor roads, 40% mix of gravel roads and tracks • Some climbs to be expected • Group normally 7 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

4 After a long downhill, climb to the beautiful town of San Millan de la Cogolla, home to the impressive Yuso Monastery.

ACCOMMODATION

In smaller villages we use characterful family-run ‘Casa Rurales’. These small hotels offer a great local experience and you are guaranteed a warm welcome. In towns we will be accommodated in larger hotels, all have en suite facilities and will be well situated beside the actual Camino de Santiago.

At a Glance

3 Cycle through forests and follow the River Najerilla to the Mansilla Reservoir, rich in wildlife.

21 May 18 Jun

• Optional single supplement: $310/€220

8 End Santiago de Compostela.

MWZ

2 Ride along the Via Verde route across the Sierra de la Demanda Mountains.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

7 Short ascents and descents to Monte de Gozo; follow the pilgrims' route to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

1 Start Burgos.

2016

2 LEISURELY/MODERATE

Itinerary - Day by Day

09 May 27 Jun 19 Sep 17 Oct

6 Cycle along tree-lined paths to Portomarin, rebuilt on a hilltop in the 1950's in order to construct a reservoir; continue to Palas de Rei.

Local bike hire: Orbea Dakar mountain bikes $160/€115, paid on booking

Santiago de Compostela

END

5 Enter Galicia's landscape of traditional agricultural villages; cycle past Samos Monastery on the way to Sarria.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

GALICIA

Cycle through the Rioja wine region l Visit beautiful historic towns l Fabulous local wines and 'Pinchos'

2015

1 Start Leon.

11 Apr 09 May 30 May 20 Jun 25 Jul 12 Sep 03 Oct 24 Oct 2016

START

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

2015

$1810

Sunshine over the vineyards in Rioja

Spain

Cycle the Camino de Santiago

ROAD • SPAIN

8 days land only

ACCOMMODATION

5 6 7

50 54 67

Laguardia Ebro LA RIOJA

San Domingo de la Calzada

Burgos

Sierra de la Demanda Via Verde

P Premium F departure

San Millan de la Cogolla

illa

jer

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

We will have one night in a 3-star hotel in Burgos and 6 nights in welllocated rural hotels. On day 4 we spend the night in a very pretty rural 3-star hotel, situated just 5 minutes from the stunning Yuso Monastery which is known as the birthplace of the modern Spanish language.

2 3 4

47 59 43

5 6 7

44 39 30

from

8 days land only

$1870

from

$1710

Lake Garda

Views of Siena

Italy

Dolomites, Lake Garda & Venice Ride Activity Level

Few landscapes in Europe match the unique beauty of the jagged limestone Dolomites. The route starts with incredible views of Trentino's dramatic mountains, cycling on relatively easy roads and tracks along the Adige River. On reaching the northern shore of Lake Garda, we will be immediately mesmerised by the breath-taking views of one of the most famous Italian lakes. A four hour ferry cruise on the lake gives us the opportunity to take in these wonderful vistas before continuing the ride through the beautiful cities of Verona, Padova and finally the canals and waterways of Venice.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

02 May 16 May 27 Jun 04 Jul 22 Aug 12 Sep 03 Oct 10 Oct

MODERATE

MWD

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with vehicle support on request • 95% tarmac roads and 5% gravel tracks • Mainly quiet roads and cycle paths • Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

Bolzano cycling ferry

5 Beyond Verona the route is mainly flat before we reach the more hilly region of Monti Berici. The undulating road takes us from beautiful villas to historic buildings all the way to Vicenza, for the best ice-creams in Italy. 6 Pass the wonderful Palladian Villa Rotonda, as we cycle to Padova where Giotto's Chapel and other marvels await. ACCOMMODATION

Trento

ITALY Rovereto

Verona Desenzano Soave

Vicenza

Mestre

Padova

Venice

We stay in a mix of 2 and 3-star hotels and inns all with en suite facilities. The accommodation will be located either in the main towns or in the beautiful surrounding countryside. You will receive a warm Italian welcome and excellent service throughout the trip.

Tuscany: Cycle Siena & Chianti 6

7 Follow Veneto's flat roads towards the Adriatic Sea and the impressive lagoon of Venice, for a relaxing drink in Piazza San Marco or a wander across the 'Ponte dei Sospiri'.

Activity Level

Blessed with one of Europe's most evocative landscapes, Tuscany is strewn with olive groves, vineyards, ancient hill-top towns and, of course, classic Renaissance cities. This twowheeled adventure takes us through diverse areas of Tuscany, such as the hills of Chianti and the beautiful area around Montepulciano. Heading north we enter the 'Crete Senesi', a wonderfully scenic region, before moving on to Siena's magnificent Campo then riding past the towers of San Gimignano and on to the final destination, Florence. Following quiet roads, we mix point-to-point and circular rides to make a perfect cycling tour of southern Tuscany.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

02 May 16 May 13 Jun 18 Jul 08 Aug 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 03 Oct

70 50 60

MWI

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support (limited seats) • 85% tarmac, 15% easy gravel roads • Quiet route with a few climbs in places • Group normally 6 to 16, plus leaders. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

3 Ride through vineyards and the walled town of Murlo to Siena. 4 Free day in Siena to explore or relax. 5 Ride via Gaiole and Radda to Castellina in Chianti. 6 Circular ride through the Chianti hills via towers of San Gimignano and Monteriggioni.

Local bike hire: Ridgeback hybrid bikes with front suspension $190/€135, paid on booking

7 Cycle to Florence via Panzano and Greve in Chianti. 8 End Florence.

Florence

Pisa

Daily Distance (km)

Chianti Hills

San Gimignano

Castellina in Chianti Siena

TUSCANY Murlo San Quirico Montepulciano

5 6 7

3 MODERATE

2 Circular ride through classic Tuscan countryside via Pienza, the wine town of Montepulciano and thermal spa village of Bagno Vignoni.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $380/€280

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

1 Start San Quirico.

09 May 23 May 20 Jun 25 Jul 15 Aug 12 Sep 19 Sep 26 Sep 10 Oct

ITALY

8 End Mestre (Venice).

Ride quiet roads l Beautiful Siena and Florence l Local Chianti wine

2015

4 Leaving the shores of Lake Garda, we head to the beautiful city of Verona, made famous by Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

Dolomites

START

3 Continue riding along the river to the magnificent Lake Garda. A four hour ferry cruise takes us to the south shore of the lake.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $360/€250 Local bike hire: Adagio Hybrid bikes $115/€80, paid on booking

Lake Garda

2 Cycle on quiet roads following the Adige River to Trento, capital of the Trentino region.

09 May 23 May 04 Jul 11 Jul 29 Aug 19 Sep 10 Oct 17 Oct

Riva

1 Start Bolzano.

2015

Stunning Dolomites scenery l Boat trip across Lake Garda l Discover Verona, Padova and Venice

START

ROAD • ITALY

8 days land only

75 57 40

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

ACCOMMODATION

We use a mixture of good quality, 3-star hotels. All rooms are comfortable with en suite facilities. Some are in the quiet countryside and have pools, one is a renovated historic property and others are located near the heart of beautiful Tuscan cities.

2 3 5

61 60 55

6 7

56 62

from

8 days land only

$2060

from

The Garfagnana region

Activity Level

Some of the best road cycling in Tuscany can be found in the north of the region. Starting our tour in the rolling hills around Lucca, during the week we get off the beaten track and head towards the mountainous terrain of the Garfagnana region before stretching our legs with a walk on Liguria's beautiful Cinque Terre coastline. On this trip we discover the iconic city of Pisa, ride through quiet mediaeval villages and the glorious landscape that connects them whilst savouring a huge range of delicious food and wine: what better way to explore the 'Bel Paese' (Beautiful Country)?

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

2015

09 May 06 Jun 11 Jul 29 Aug 26 Sep

16 May 13 Jun 18 Jul 05 Sep 03 Oct

Local bike hire: Ridgeback Element Hybrid bikes with front suspension $190/€135, paid on booking

La Spezia

Cinque Terre

cycle transfer

rfa

Barga gn

Pisa

Montecatini Terme

Monte Pisano

ITALY

TUSCANY

Vinci

We use a mix of good quality 3-star hotels which have been carefully selected for their location and welcoming atmosphere. All rooms are comfortable with en suite facilities. One hotel has a swimming pool, one is conveniently located in proximity of a beautiful beach and others are located near pretty towns.

Cycling is a great way to explore the stunning natural and cultural treasures of the Campania region, from the relatively unknown and unspoilt area of Cilento to the lively Amalfi Coast. The Cilento National Park is largely undisturbed by the 21st Century and as we cycle through quaint fishing villages and mediaeval settlements we realise that the traditional way of life is still very evident. We also visit the magnificent Greek temples of Paestum before heading to lovely Minori on the Amalfi Coast. From here we cycle on some of the most scenic routes in the world while visiting charming towns including Positano, and of course Amalfi itself.

Trip Code

1 Start Lucca.

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

2 Gentle introductory ride around the foothills of Monte Pisano; late afternoon visit to historic Pisa.

START

MET

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support (limited seats) • 100% tarmac • Mountainous terrain, a good level of fitness recommended • Group normally 7 to 16, plus leaders. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights comfortable hotels • All breakfasts included

7 We finish the trip out of the saddle, walking in Cinque Terre N.P. on the stunning Ligurian Coast. ACCOMMODATION

Cycle Cilento & the Amalfi Coast Activity Level

6 Ride through the Alpi Apuane Mountains, past two incredible lakes and under towering peaks of Carrara marble; transfer to the coastal town of Levanto.

Discover pristine nature in Cilento l Ride the stunning Amalfi Coast l Enjoy delicious cuisine

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

5 Challenging climbs take us into the Mountains en route to the amazing hilltop city of Barga; continue riding to the pretty market town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana.

nin

Lucca

Ligurian Sea

4 Enjoy a circular route through the stunning countryside to the south of Montecatini Terme to visit the beautiful hill town of Vinci.

• Optional single supplement: $380/€270

Levanto

3 Ride through the Colline Lucchesi winemaking region en route to the thermal spa town of Montecatini Terme.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Italy

Beautiful Pisa and Lucca l Ride Northern Tuscany's finest roads l Stunning Cinque Terre

START

$2000

Panoramic view of Amalfi from the hills

Italy

Tuscany: Pisa to Cinque Terre Ride

ROAD • ITALY

8 days land only

04 Apr 02 May 23 May 06 Jun 04 Jul 22 Aug 05 Sep 19 Sep 10 Oct

11 Apr 09 May 30 May 13 Jun 11 Jul 29 Aug 12 Sep 26 Sep 17 Oct

• Optional single supplement: $380/€280 Local bike hire: 24 gear aluminium trekking bikes $160/€115, paid on booking

ACCOMMODATION

Daily Distance (km) 65 50

Salerno

5 6

ITALY

CAMPANIA

Paestum

Cilento N.P.

70 55

Casalvelino Mingardo Canyon Pisciotta Capo Palinuro

Punta Licosa

75 cycling

P Premium F departure

Marina di Camerota

P Fdeparture P Solo

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads • Mix of flat riding and a few longer climbs • Group normally 7 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 6 nights hotels, 1 night farmhouse • All breakfasts and 5 dinners included

4 Undulating ride through charming coastal villages to Ogliastro Marina for lunch and a swim; continue on to Paestum with its 6th Century BC Greek ruins.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Amalfi Positano Capri Amalfi Coast

MWO

3 Ride to Capo Palinuro then to the mediaeval village of Pisciotta; descend to the coast and Casalvelino.

P F

Vesuvius

2 Cycle along the most unspoilt stretch of coastline in Southern Italy, then inland to the Mingardo Canyon and abandoned village of San Severino.

P F

Naples

3 MODERATE

1 Start in Palinuro, on the southern coast of Cilento National Park.

2015

Minori

8 End Levanto.

2 3 4

END

F Family departure

We stay at 3 and 4-star hotels with en suite facilities and spend one night in a charming ‘agriturismo’ a beautifully converted farmhouse. The hotels have been chosen for their warm hospitality and their typical Italian character. All hotels have either a swimming pool or a beach nearby which will be greatly appreciated in summer. Most of the hotels have restaurants serving typical regional cuisine and delicious local produce.

5 Short ride around city walls then train to Salerno; ride one of the most scenic roads in the world to Minori, our base for the next three nights. 6 Cycle along the 'Strada Amalfitana' to Amalfi, Praiano and Positano, and climb inland to the Colli di San Pietro for great views over the Bay of Naples; return to Minori via Amalfi. 7 Free day to relax on the beach at Minori, visit Ravello and Amalfi, take a boat trip to Capri or visit Pompeii and Vesuvius. 8 End Minori.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

55 40

5 6

22 56

from

8 days land only

$1810

from

Trulli houses in Alberobello, Puglia

Italy

Cycling Puglia & Matera Activity Level

In the deep south of Italy, nestled between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, lie the captivating regions of Puglia and Basilicata. This extensive itinerary explores the very best selection of all the cultural and natural treasures found here. Matera's fascinating 'Sassi' houses and the UNESCO 'Trulli' of Alberobello set the scene for the journey to come. After passing through idyllic countryside and the stunning 'white city' of Ostuni, the route veers towards Gallipoli and the dramatic Ionian coastline. While riding across the famous Salentine Peninsula, we immerse ourselves in the charming laid-back Italian way of living and explore a stunning landscape made of olive groves, limestone cliffs, crystal waters and Baroque towns.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

18 Apr* 16 May* 13 Jun 12 Sep 10 Oct 24 Oct

MODERATE

MWV

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 99% tarmac, with one very short section of gravel • Quiet roads with a few ascents and descents • Group normally 6 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

5 Cycle to the coast and swim in the crystal clear sea before continuing towards Gallipoli with its old town situated on a rocky island. 6 Follow a stunning stretch of coastline leading to the ancient town of Otranto.

Bari Alberobello

Adriatic Sea Ostuni

ITALY

ACCOMMODATION Brindisi

PUGLIA

Lecce Otranto

Gulf of Taranto Gallipoli Ionian Sea

We use a mix of comfortable 3 and 4-star hotels and renovated traditional buildings. Most hotels are high quality and have been selected for their location, comfort and character representing the characteristic Apullian architecture. We also spend one night in a typical Masseria (a traditional converted farmhouse) surrounded by olive groves. All rooms are en suite and some hotels have a swimming pool.

7 Continue along the shoreline to the beautiful Baroque city of Lecce. 8 End Lecce.

Cycling in Sardinia 6

70 45 73

Scenic coastal cycling l Delicious cuisine and wines l Stunning beaches and turquoise sea

Activity Level

Sardinia is a place of outstanding natural beauty, with its crystal-clear sea, limestone ridges and deep gorges. We cycle along the pristine southwestern coast of the island, discovering colonies of flamingos in the Sinis Wetlands, abundant Mediterranean vegetation in the Costa Verde, the fishing village of Carloforte and gleaming white beaches in the stunning Costa del Sud. While pedalling along the turquoise sea, with its stretches of savage coastline and majestic cliffs, we discover a piece of hidden paradise where nature feels very much untouched. Having built a good appetite, we will have plenty of opportunities to sample Sardinia's unique, mouth-watering cuisine: the perfect mix for a great week of cycling.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

04 Apr 25 Apr 09 May 23 May 06 Jun 20 Jun 05 Sep* 19 Sep 03 Oct 24 Oct

5 6 7

41 73 50

Arborea

ITALY SARDINIA

Cagliari Sant’Anna Arresi

Sant’ Antioco

P Premium F departure

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 90% vehicle support • 90% tarmac, 10% easy gravel roads • Mix of easy riding and some long climbs from the coast • Group normally 5 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels and agriturismos • All breakfasts and 2 dinners included

5 Descend to Fontanamare; board the ferry to the fishing village of Carloforte.

Pula

Capo Malfatano

P Fdeparture P Solo

ACCOMMODATION

We use good quality agriturismos (renovated farmhouses) and comfortable 3-star hotels. All accommodation is locally-owned and family-run and the hotels have been carefully selected for their welcoming atmosphere and delicious homemade cuisine. All rooms are comfortable with en suite facilities. Some hotels have a swimming pool, one is conveniently located in proximity of a beautiful beach and others are located in the quiet Sardinian countryside or pretty villages.

cycling transfer/ferry

Pan di Zucchero Carloforte

MWK

4 Cycle past abandoned mines, the golden beach of Portixeddu and the white sea-stack of Pan di Zucchero; continue to the former mining village of Nebida.

Local bike hire: Tailormade Dolcevita hybrid bikes $140/€100, paid on booking

San Pietro

3 Short transfer to Arborea; cycle along the Costa Verde and on to Piscinas beach.

• Optional single supplement: $330/€230 • *Corsa degli Scalzi festival

Piscinas

3 MODERATE

2 Circular ride through the Sinis wetlands to the white quartz beach of Is Arutas and the Phoenician site of Tharros.

11 Apr 02 May 16 May 30 May 13 Jun 27 Jun 12 Sep 26 Sep 10 Oct 31 Oct

Sinis Wetlands

1 Start San Salvatore Sinis.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

San Salvatore Sinis

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

2015

4 Ride through quaint villages and country lanes to a typical Masseria - a renovated farmhouse - where we spend the night.

Local bike hire: 27 speed FRW hybrid bikes $140/€100, paid on booking

START

3 Cycle through the lush Valle d'Itria, past the picturesque fairytale trulli houses and on to the hilltop town of Ostuni.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $380/€280 • *Best for flowers

BASILICATA

2 Ride past the historic 'Sassi' houses of Matera before heading to Alberobello to explore the famous UNESCO Trulli.

25 Apr 23 May 20 Jun 19 Sep 17 Oct 31 Oct

Matera

1 Start Matera.

2015

Ride along idyllic coastline l Visit historic UNESCO towns l Enjoy fine seafood and wine

END

$1900

Fantastic coastal riding

Italy

START

ROAD • ITALY

8 days land only

F Family departure

6 Cycle through the meadows of Sant'Antioco; visit the Romanesque Pisan sanctuary and ride along the quiet country lanes of Sulcis. 7 Pedal across the rolling hills of the Costa del Sud; climb up to the high point of Cape Malfatano for views of the coast. Transfer and overnight in Cagliari. 8 End Cagliari.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

52 56 41

5 6 7

53 43 60

from

11 days land only

$1680

from

Ragusa Ibla

Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary

Cycling in Sicily

Stunning UNESCO Noto Valley l Charming Baroque towns and Greek ruins l Gastronomic delights

Activity Level

Sicily is not only the biggest island in the Mediterranean but also one of the most fascinating thanks to the incredibly diverse heritage past civilizations have left here. Our route takes us across the stunning scenery of the UNESCO Noto Valley: from the charming town of Palazzolo we pedal through the Baroque gems of Ragusa, Modica, Noto and on to Syracuse, the ancient Greek capital. We also stop in picturesque fishing villages with dramatic coastal scenery which showcase the great natural diversity of the region. The active week is not complete without sampling some of the finest regional dishes considered amongst the best of the whole Italian gastronomy.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

11 Apr* 02 May* 12 Sep 17 Oct

• Optional single supplement: $380/€280 • *Best for spring flowers Local bike hire: 24 speed hybrid bikes with front suspension $200/€140, paid on booking

Catania

ITALY SICILY

ACCOMMODATION Syracuse

Palazzolo Acreide Noto

Modica

Vendicari Marzamemi Capo Passero

MODERATE

MWY

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads • Route mainly follows quiet roads with some climbs • Group normally 8 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 1 dinner included

We use comfortable 3 and 4-star hotels and one ‘agriturismo’ - a charming renovated farmhouse. The hotels have been carefully selected for their friendly atmosphere and character. All rooms have en suite facilities and the agriturismo has a swimming pool. Most of them are conveniently located in proximity of the charming UNESCO historic centres we visit.

Prague to Budapest Ride 6

Activity Level

Through the landscape of the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, this trip combines peaceful country lanes with well-marked cycle paths, including sections along the Danube, to showcase the best of Central Europe. Our itinerary meanders past castles, through rustic villages, along rivers and past lakes as we discover the former territories of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Highlights include UNESCO sites, national parks and the famous wine-making region of Moravia. Exploring the gentle countryside, rural towns and historic capitals by bike is a great way to sample the changing atmosphere and individual flavours of each region.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

30 Apr 21 May 18 Jun* 09 Jul 13 Aug 27 Aug 17 Sep

5 Coastal ride to the Vendicari Nature Reserve; continue to the UNESCO-listed Baroque town of Noto.

Local bike hire: 21 speed Author touring bikes $190/€135, paid on booking

8 End Syracuse.

Cesky Krumlov

Daily Distance (km) 65 52 55

5 6 7

Telc

Znojmo Mikulov Trebon Mistelbach Bratislava Vienna Esztergom Halaszi Gyor Budapest

At a Glance • 9 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% tarmac, 20% gravel cycle paths • Mix of quiet country roads and some busier sections • Group normally 5 to 15, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 10 nights pensions and hotels • All breakfasts included

5 Cycle past vineyards to Mikulov. 6 Ride into Austria; through small villages and meadows to Mistelbach; transfer to Vienna.

We stay in comfortable 2 and 3-star pensions and hotels. All rooms have en suite facilities. Most of the city hotels used on this trip are a short walk or ride from the city centre which makes it easier to explore the towns in the evenings or during the free time.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 6

P Premium F departure

MVZ

4 Cycle through the Trebon Basin along Greenways Trail to UNESCO town of Telc; transfer to Znojmo in South Moravia.

ACCOMMODATION Prague

Ceske Budejovice

3 Ride through the forests and hills to mediaeval spa town of Trebon; transfer to Jindrichuv Hradec.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $320/€230 • *Festival in Cesky Krumlov

7 Final morning ride across Syracuse to Ciane River; free time to discover the historic town.

3 MODERATE

2 Transfer to Ceske Budejovice; cycle to Cesky Krumlov by the Vltava River.

10 May 31 May 28 Jun 19 Jul 23 Aug 06 Sep 27 Sep

6 Climb up to a view point overlooking the Cavagrande National Reserve and the deep Cassibile canyon; continue to Syracuse.

1 Start Prague.

2015

4 Circular route through coastal wetlands to southernmost point in Sicily.

2 3 4

Explore Central Europe on two wheels l Visit four historic capitals l Try local cuisines and beers

START

3 Try the famous Modica chocolate with chilli; cycle to the architectural delight of Scicli; on to the fishing village of Marzamemi.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Scicli

2 Ride south to the hilltop Baroque town of Ragusa Ibla; cycle scenic roads to Modica.

18 Apr 09 May 19 Sep 24 Oct

Ragusa Ibla

1 Start Palazzolo Acreide.

2015

$2060

Old Town Square, Prague

Italy

START

ROAD • CZECH REPUBLIC, AUSTRIA, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY

ROAD • ITALY

8 days land only

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

52 55 70 70

7 8 9 10

7 Leaving Vienna, follow Danube Cycle Path to the Donau-Auen N.P. into Slovakia and on to Bratislava; time to explore. 8 Cycle through the forested hills above Bratislava and into Hungary; on to Halaszi and transfer to peaceful Gyor. 9 Cycle through picturesque landscape of the Hungarian lowlands to Tata; transfer to Esztergom. 10 Follow the Danube beneath Visegrad Castle, riding through rolling hills to Szentendre; transfer to Budapest; time for sightseeing. 11 End Budapest.

70 50 40 45

from

8 days land only

$1620

from

$1430

Ljubljana

Korcula Island

Croatia, Slovenia

Croatia

Cycling through Croatia & Slovenia Activity Level

Croatia's Istrian Peninsula offers the perfect setting for a cycling holiday, linking historic towns, beautiful coastline and pretty inland villages with trails through green hills and lush fields, vineyards and olive groves. Our route will stop in the town of Rovinj, known as the 'little Venice' of Croatia, and Porec, famed for the stunning Byzantine mosaics housed in the UNESCO Euphrasian Basilica. Our trip ends in Slovenia with a ride around Postojna and the chance to visit the famous stalactite cave, before we head on to the vibrant capital of Ljubljana.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

16 May 13 Jun 12 Sep 26 Sep

3 MODERATE

MVI

At a Glance • 6 days with 100% vehicle support • 90% quiet tarmac roads, 10% cycle tracks • Rolling roads with no major climbs • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader and driver. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

2 Cycle on the Parenzana bike route north to Groznjan before heading back along the coast to Novigrad.

23 May 20 Jun 19 Sep 03 Oct

• Optional single supplement: $230/€170

3 Ride to Porec to visit the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO world heritage site; return to Novigrad via pretty Istrian villages.

Local bike hire: Wheeler Pro-10 mountain bikes with front suspension $170/€120, paid on booking

4 Transfer to Porec where we start our ride; cycle via Lim Bay, a 35km long channel into the heart of Istria to Rovinj.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

5 Explore the St Euphemia Trail through Rovinjsko Selo; with views of Figarola, an island off the coast; return to Rovinj.

Ljubljana

6 Cycle down the coast to Pula; visit the amphitheatre; transfer to Postojna in Slovenia.

cycling transfer Postojna

SLOVENIA Groznjan Novigrad Porec

CROATIA ISTRIA

Lim Fjord Rovinj

Adriatic Sea

Pula

ACCOMMODATION

We use a mixture of comfortable 3-star hotels and a more simple hotel in Ljubljana which is well located. All rooms have en suite facilities and some have air-conditioning. Many are family-run and you can expect a warm welcome.

7 Ride around Postojna area; option to go down in to Postojna cave; transfer to Ljubljana with time to explore Slovenia's vibrant capital this evening and in the morning. 8 End Ljubljana.

65 55 55

Cycling the Dalmatian Coast 6

Activity Level

Said to have the clearest waters in the Mediterranean, and undoubtedly packed with historic and cultural interest, the Dalmatian Coast is one of the true wonders of Europe. We follow some of the best cycling routes the area has to offer with much of the tour taking place on the long and beautiful islands of Hvar and Korcula, travelling by ferry between the islands. The scenery alternates between seaside villages, tiny mediaeval towns and lovely pebble bays. We end our journey in the fascinating UNESCO city of Dubrovnik. We have two nights here to soak up the atmosphere of this uniquely preserved city.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

11 Apr 02 May 09 May 16 May 30 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun 27 Jun

18 Apr 09 May 16 May 23 May 06 Jun 13 Jun 20 Jun 27 Jun 04 Jul

04 Jul 11 Jul P 29 F Aug 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep P 26 F Sep 03 Oct

P F

Korcula

Adriatic Sea

P Premium F departure

Drevnik

Mljet

7 Free day to explore Dubrovnik. 8 End Dubrovnik.

We stay in a mixture of 2 and 3-star hotels throughout the tour, all rooms are comfortable and of good quality, most have air conditioning.

BOSNIA

Daily Distance (km) Dubrovnik

P Fdeparture P Solo

• 5 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with 100% vehicle support • 90% good quality tarmac, 10% gravel roads • Quiet roads with a good mix of flat and rolling terrain • Group normally 5 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

6 Ride through the vineyards of Peljesac Peninsula towards the mainland; transfer Dubrovnik.

ACCOMMODATION

Korcula

At a Glance

5 Scenic ride on forested island of Korcula, from Vela Luka to Korcula town.

cycling ferries/transfers

Peljesac Peninsula

MVJ

4 Free day in Korcula; optional visit (with bikes) to picturesque island of Mljet.

Local bike hire: Wheeler Pro-29 mountain bikes with front suspension $130/€100, paid on booking

Hvar

3 Ride east along the island with views of both coasts, heading to port of Sucuraj; ferry via mainland to Korcula.

• Optional single supplement: $230/€170

Hvar

54 55

3 MODERATE

2 Circular ride exploring the island of Hvar, including Hvar town and a climb of about 10km with fantastic views.

11 Jul 18 Jul 05 Sep 12 Sep 19 Sep 26 Sep 03 Oct 10 Oct

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Split

1 Start Jelsa on island of Hvar.

2015

Jelsa

5 6 7

Peaceful coastal routes l Island hop by boat and bike l UNESCO city of Dubrovnik

CROATIA

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

START END START END

1 Start Ljubljana airport; transfer to Novigrad.

2015

Beautiful Istrian coastline l Explore Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana l Euphrasian Basilica of Porec

START

ROAD • CROATIA

ROAD • CROATIA, SLOVENIA

8 days land only

F Family departure

2 3 4

50 55 OPTIONAL RIDE

5 40 6 20

“Croatia is an undiscovered gem and cycling the coast is the perfect way to see it.” Liam Curran

from

8 days land only

$1520

from

Group at the Leskovik Gorge

Greece

Cycling in Albania

NEW

Activity Level

Some say that visiting Albania is as close as you'll get to travelling back in time. It wasn't until the collapse of People's Socialist Republic of Albania in 1991 that the world got its first glimpse of the country within. Huge snow-capped mountains, inviting beaches, pretty rural villages, a genuine subsistence culture and an exceptionally friendly welcome is what you will find here. We cycle through the very best of Europe's beautiful unknown, beginning our tour on the border of Macedonia, then towards the ancient town of Gjirokastra passing soaring peaks and lush green valleys. From here we begin our descent to the Albanian Riviera passing the UNESCO site of Butrint and Llogara National Park before finally relaxing at the private beach of our hotel in Vlore.

Trip Code

END

2015 12 Apr 10 May 14 Jun 06 Sep 04 Oct

3 MODERATE

MVA

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% tarmac, 20% unpaved tracks • Quiet undulating route with one tough optional climb • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 5 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses • All breakfasts and 2 dinners included

Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Tirana.

4 Ride along the valley towards Kelcyra; after lunch at Tepele Waterfalls transfer to Gjirokastra for afternoon city tour of its narrow cobbled alleys and 18th Century Ottoman houses.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $220/€160 Local bike hire: Giant lightweight hybrid bikes $160, paid on booking

5 Transfer up the Muzina Pass, the gateway to Southern Albania; long descent to the coast and the UNESCO site of Butrint before reaching Saranda.

Tirana cycling transfer

6 Spectacular coastal ride to the long beach of Himare Bay.

Lake Ohrid KOSOVO

ACCOMMODATION

Pogradec

ALBANIA

Korce

Vlore

Permet Llogara N.P. Himare Bay

Saranda Butrint

Corfu

Barmash Pass

Germenj Gjirokastra Muzina Pass

GREECE

On two of the nights when we are deep in the Albanian countryside we stay in comfortable guesthouses. In Benje we stay in a guesthouse that is only a few kilometres from the thermal springs and Ottoman bridge. Run by a local family, dinner will often be taken out on the veranda where you will be served their own homegrown produce.

Cycling in Greece 6

7 Ride past coastal towns towards Vlore; optional 1000m climb to the Llogara Pass, or take the support van before long descent through Llogara N.P. ending again at the coast.

Activity Level

When it comes to history, archeology and mythology, the Peloponnese is arguably the most interesting part of Greece. This week of cycling is a journey through fascinating classical history and a superb variety of landscapes, from the azure blue of the sea to the green olive trees and vineyards of the heart of the country. Our route offers plenty of opportunities to discover some of Greece's treasures, such as Poros Island or the beautiful town of Nafplio. Each day we sample excellent local food in various restaurants and tavernas and immerse ourselves in the Greek culture and lifestyle.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

16 May 06 Jun 12 Sep 26 Sep

72 53 46

Gulf of Corinth

GREECE

• 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support (limited seats) • 80% tarmac, 20% dirt roads • Quiet undulating roads with some long climbs • Group normaly 6 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

Corinth Mycenae

6 Our first stop today is Nemea, a town famous for its wine, where we will visit a winery before continuing to Loutraki.

Athens

Loutraki

7 Enjoy a relaxed morning, perhaps head to the beach, before taking the bus to the centre of Athens and a metro to our hotel.

Saronic Gulf

Epidaurus Poros

Aegean Sea

8 End Athens.

cycle transfer

Daily Distance (km)

We spend 7 nights in comfortable 2 and 3-star hotels and pensions. These are often near interesting sights or by the Aegean Sea and some hotels have a swimming pool. All rooms have en suite facilities.

54 65

P Premium F departure

At a Glance

5 After visiting Nafplio, one of the most beautiful towns in Greece, today's ride takes us into the heart of the Peloponnese to Mycenae.

ACCOMMODATION

5 6 7

MWH

4 Optional visit to the magnificent theatre of Epidaurus, before heading towards Tolo on quiet old roads.

• Optional single supplement: $380/€270 Local bike hire: Ideal hybrid bikes with front suspension $150/€110, paid on booking

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

3 Boat to Galatas and scenic coastal ride to the ancient site of Epidaurus.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Nafplio

3 MODERATE

2 Cycle around Athens and its sights including the Acropolis; ferry to Poros Island and cycle to a beautiful beach for a swim.

23 May 13 Jun 19 Sep 03 Oct

Nemea

1 Start Athens.

2015

Tolo PELOPONNESE

8 Drive to Tirana; end Tirana.

Idyllic coastline l Historic sights of ancient Greece l Discover Athens

START

3 Cycle through spectacular high grassy plateaux surrounded by soaring peaks before descending to Carshove and on to Benje; short afternoon ride to thermal springs for a swim.

19 Apr 17 May 21 Jun 13 Sep 11 Oct

Adriatic Sea

2 Transfer to Korce; steady climb through landscape of barren rock intersperced with wildflowers; cycle through Grammoz Mountains and over the Barmash Pass (1159m) to Germenj.

Dates & Price Guide

A previously isolated country l Rarely visited UNESCO sites l Mountains to sandy beaches

$1680

Coastal ride from Poros to Epidaurus

Albania

START

ROAD • GREECE

ROAD • ALBANIA

8 days land only

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

2 3 4

55 40 39

5 6

37 62

from

9 days land only

$1240

from

$1770

Cycling in Southern Turkey

Paradise Valley

Turkey

Morocco

Aegean Coast & Lakes Ride Activity Level

Turkey is more than just sun-drenched beaches and turquoise waters. It is also a fantastic place to explore by bike, with towering peaks, glistening lakes and lush countryside offering a multitude of routes and terrains. We start our ride high in the mountains above the coastal town of Fethiye, and wind our way back to the coast. Dotting our route are some of Turkey's great lakes, magnificent ruins and quiet country villages, including visits to Ephesus and the UNESCO site of Pamukkale to make a memorable journey in this fascinating country.

Trip Code

START

04 May 18 May 22 Jun 21 Sep 12 Oct

3 MODERATE

MTI

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 90% tarmac, 10% unsurfaced roads • Relaxed rides with a few challenging climbs • Group normally 5 to 15, plus leader(s). Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels and pensions • All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners included

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

2015 11 May 25 May 29 Jun 28 Sep 19 Oct

• Optional single supplement: $370/€260

3 Transfer to Salda Lake; cycle to Cardak and visit the Caravansaray, a major highlight of the 'Silk Road'; transfer to Pamukkale.

Local bike hire: Specialized Hardrock mountain bikes with front suspension $160/€115, paid on booking

4 Transfer to Bozdag Village, then ride downhill to Golcuk Lake and continue to Selcuk.

Ephesus

Selcuk Soke

5 Morning visit Ephesus (entry optional) then transfer to Soke; ride to Lake Bafa. 6 Final day of cycling from Ula to Koycegiz Lake and Sultaniye; transfer by boat to Dalyan.

Pamukkale

TURKEY

7 Free day for beach, shopping, swimming and relaxation.

Denizli

Lake Bafa Aegean Sea

Salda Lake Ula

Koycegiz cycle/drive

Golhisar Cameli

Dalyan

Dalaman

Fethiye

Cycle Morocco's Great South 6

We use a mix of 2- and 3-star hotels and pensions. All rooms are comfortable with en suite facilities. Some hotels have a swimming pool and others rooftop terraces. All are attractively located in the quiet countryside or pretty villages.

Encompassing the best of Morocco, this trip will take us past the foothills of Mt Toubkal, golden Kasbahs, impressive gorges and the long sandy beach of Essaouira. This spectacular route follows smooth tarmac roads and climbs over high mountain passes that reward you with spectacular vistas of the High Atlas Mountains. A real highlight is riding through Paradise Valley, close to Imouzzer, where a palm-filled valley leads to a high pass with views down to the ocean below. After all the riding we will receive a warm welcome from a range of great hotels including traditional riads.

Trip Code

END

07 Feb 07 Mar 28 Mar 11 Apr 19 Sep 03 Oct 07 Nov 21 Nov

15 Feb 15 Mar 05 Apr 19 Apr 27 Sep 11 Oct 15 Nov 29 Nov

06 Feb 05 Mar

14 Feb 13 Mar

66 57 70

5 6

MMI

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 90% tarmac, 10% unsurfaced roads • Rides are mostly undulating with a number of optional long climbs and descents • Group normally 4 to 15 plus UK leader and local drivers. Min age 16 yrs • 6 nights hotels, 2 nights in traditional Moroccan riads • All breakfast, 6 lunches and 5 dinners included

3 Challenging climb followed by an exhilarating descent from Tizi n'Test Pass (2100m) to Oulad Berhil; overnight comfortable riad.

• Optional single supplement: $190/€130 Local bike hire: Ridgeback Element hybrid bikes $190/€135, paid on booking

Imouzzer Agadir

Tizi n’Test Oulad Berhil Irherm

I NT

Tafraoute

P Premium F departure

2 Transfer to Tadmamt; cycle in the foothills of Mt Toubkal with beautiful views down to Asni; arrive Dar Elmouahidines.

4 Cycle towards Tafraoute in the Anti Atlas Mountains, passing a mixture of argan and almond trees; optional transfer/ride to see the famous Blue Rocks.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

North Atlantic Ocean

4 MODERATE/CHALLENGING

1 Start Marrakech.

2016

60 57

Itinerary - Day by Day

2015

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

Activity Level

8 End Dalyan. ACCOMMODATION

Atlas Mountains to the coast l Marrakech and Essaouira l Challenging climbs and descents

START

2 Transfer to Tuzla Beli; ride to Kirazli Yayli, Cameli and Golhisar Lake; transfer to Acipayam.

Bozdag Golcuk

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Fethiye.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Scenic riding l Visit Ephesus and Pamukkale l Experience Turkish hospitality

Dates & Price Guide

ROAD • MOROCCO

ROAD • TURKEY

8 days land only

L AT

cycle/drive

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

ACCOMMODATION

5 Pass many pink houses and beautiful kasbahs en route to Ait Baha Lake; transfer to Agadir.

We stay in a mixture of 3-star hotels and small privately-owned riads throughout the trip. A riad is a large Moroccan house or palace with an interior courtyard or garden normally containing a swimming pool; they are usually very well decorated in a traditional Moroccan style. One of the riads has a fantastic fruit garden surrounding the property; we can pick our own fruit directly from the trees and enjoy a swim in the pool.

6 Spectacular ride through the Paradise Valley; climb to Imouzzer. 7 Ride from Imouzzer towards the lovely coastal town of Essaouira where we stay in a traditional riad. 8 Free morning in Essaouira then transfer to Marrakech to explore the souks off Djemaa el Fna Square or visit the beautiful Majorelle Gardens. 9 End Marrakech.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

63 73 60

5 6 7

70 45 60

from

12 days land only

$1600

from

Monastery in the ancient city of Petra

South Africa

Petra & Wadi Rum by Bike

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

Activity Level

The Kingdom of Jordan is the perfect place to combine a cycling tour with some of the best sites in the Middle East. This bicycle tour takes us through olive groves and hill top villages in the north, while further south we will head along desert roads where the communities are sparse and nomadic and the landscape vast and spectacular. If the cycling alone isn't enough to entice you, perhaps the UNESCO site of Petra, a night under the stars in the Wadi Rum desert, or a float in the Dead Sea will tempt you to visit this fascinating country.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

14 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 07 Mar 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 Apr 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 06 Jun 05 Sep

22 Feb 01 Mar 08 Mar 15 Mar 22 Mar 29 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 10 May 17 May 24 May 31 May 14 Jun 13 Sep

12 Sep+ 19 Sep 26 Sep 03 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Oct P F 07 Nov 14 Nov 21 Nov 05 Dec 12 Dec 19 Dec 22 Dec 26 Dec

20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct 01 Nov 08 Nov 15 Nov 22 Nov 29 Nov 13 Dec 20 Dec 27 Dec 30 Dec 03 Jan

P F

13 Feb 20 Feb 05 Mar 12 Mar 19 Mar 02 Apr

21 Feb 28 Feb 13 Mar 20 Mar 27 Mar 10 Apr

09 Apr 16 Apr 30 Apr 07 May 14 May 21 May

17 Apr 24 Apr 08 May 15 May 22 May 29 May

We spend one night in our private camp in the Wadi Rum desert; we stay in traditional tents divided up with two beds in each section. The facilities at the camp are quite basic with limited running water, but you will forget about the lack of creature comforts when sitting outside gazing up at the stars whilst our guides cook a traditional Jordanian meal.

Madaba Dead Sea

3 MODERATE

MXW

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads, some gravel and sand • Mainly flat, some steep climbs, high temperatures • Group normally 4 to 18 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels, 1 night basic camping • All breakfast, 2 lunches and 1 dinner included

1 Start Amman 2 Visit Jerash; ride/drive through olive groves and villages to Madaba. 3 Ride to Mt Nebo; descend to the Dead Sea for a float in the water before driving to Petra.

Cycling the Cape & Winelands 6

5 Guided tour around Petra; cycle to little Petra. 6 Ride via Wadi Araba to Aqaba on the Red Sea.

8 Morning desert drive into the Wadi Rum; drive to Amman. 9 End Amman

Activity Level

Renowned as one of the most beautiful places on earth, Cape Town and its surroundings provide a stunning backdrop for this tour. Our circular route allows us to take in the fantastic sights the Cape Peninsula has to offer. In addition to Table Mountain and the chance to sample the famous wine from the estates of Stellenbosch, the wild coastline and rugged interior provide classic riding on peaceful roads with little traffic. The stunning scenery, a rich cultural history, unique flora, and unusual wildlife encounters make this a fantastic destination to discover on two wheels.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

01 Feb 01 Mar 26 Jul 06 Sep* 18 Oct*

12 Feb 12 Mar 06 Aug 17 Sep 29 Oct

01 Nov* 15 Nov* 29 Nov 20 Dec

Petra Wadi Araba

• Optional single supplement: $180/€130 (hotel nights only) Premium departures $940/€670 • Free airport transfer for any flight

Aqaba

cycle/drive transfer

Stellenbosch Hellshoogte

Wadi Rum

Cape Town

Red Sea

Cape Peninsula

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 5

42 45

6 7

Barrydale

Franschhoek Swellendam Gordon’s Bontebok N.P. Bay Hermanus

Cape Agulhas

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

6 Ride and transfer to Cape Agulhas N.P., Africa's southernmost point. 7 Cycle to Hermanus; sample the local fish cakes and beer.

We stay in some very memorable accommodation throughout the trip, including a small family-run chalet right on the edge of the lake in Swellendam and a really cosy private lodge near the sea front in Cape Town. Single supplements are available and all accommodation has en suite facilities apart from one night in Franschhoek.

8 Free day to relax in Hermanus. 9 Ride the Whale Coast to Gordon's Bay. 10 Stunning Cape Peninsula ride; visit penguin colony. 11 Cycle to Cape Town via Chapman's Peak, Hout Bay and Camps Bay. 12 Optional morning visit to Robben Island; end Cape Town.

Daily Distance (km)

Gansbaai

cycle/drive

• 9 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% tarmac with some hard pack dirt roads • Classic road tour with relaxed rides and a few challenging climbs • Group normally 5 to 14 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights guest houses, 4 nights lodges • All breakfasts, 7 lunches, 5 dinners included

5 Ride through Langeberge Mountains to Bontebok N.P.

ACCOMMODATION

SOUTH AFRICA Little Karoo

At a Glance

4 Transfer through Breede Valley; ride through semi-arid desert of Great Karoo.

10 Nov 24 Nov 08 Dec 29 Dec

Desert Highway

MZC

3 Ride the Franschhoek Pass; afternoon wine tasting in Stellenbosch.

2016

• Optional single supplement: $740/€520 • *Whale watching season Local bike hire: Trek 7.3 FX hybrid bikes $300/€220, paid on booking

2 Ride over Hellshoogte, passing vineyards, to village of Franschhoek.

12 Nov 26 Nov 10 Dec 31 Dec

31 Jan 11 Feb 30 Oct* 28 Feb 10 Mar 13 Nov* 24 Jul 04 Aug 27 Nov 04 Sep* 15 Sep 18 Dec 16 Oct* 27 Oct Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

3 MODERATE

1 Start Cape Town; free day to explore.

2015

Itinerary - Day by Day

START END START END

JORDAN Kings Highway

Amazing wildlife and stunning scenery l World famous wine estates l Cycle Chapman's Peak Drive

4 Explore the fascinating UNESCO city of Petra.

7 Free morning to visit the beach, explore Aqaba or snorkel; afternoon drive/ride to Wadi Rum and camp in the desert.

Amman

P F

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Local bike hire: Trek 3700 or 3900 mountain bikes with front suspension $130/€100, paid on booking.

Itinerary - Day by Day

DESERT CAMP

2016

Cycle through spectacular desert scenery l UNESCO site of Petra l Camp under the stars in Wadi Rum

2015

$2660

Stellenbosch Mountains and vineyards

Jordan

START END START END

ROAD • SOUTH AFRICA

ROAD • JORDAN

9 days land only

F Family departure

2 50 3 20 4 65 5 45 6 60

7 9 10 11

55 90 35 70

from

13 days land only

$2470

from

The Drakensberg Mountains

USA

Cycling Drakensberg & Kruger

Activity Level

This breathtaking route combines the highest mountains in South Africa with the incredible wildlife of Kruger. From the saddle we enjoy stunning views, riding over scenic mountain passes, past curious rock formations, abandoned gold mines and forests along the largest green canyon on earth. We leave our bikes for a couple of days to go on safari in Kruger National Park where lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes and various other animals are regularly seen. One of the best ways to experience the beauty and diversity of eastern South Africa is from behind a pair of handlebars.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

START END START END

04 Oct 01 Nov 22 Nov

25 Feb 07 Apr 18 Aug

02 Oct 30 Oct 20 Nov

15 Oct 12 Nov 03 Dec

SOUTH AFRICA Golden Gate N.P. Sungubala

Kruger N.P.

LESOTHO

SWAZILAND

Dundee

At a Glance • 8 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • Mostly tarmac with sections on hard pack dirt roads • A few challenging climbs, most roads have little traffic • Group normally 6 to 14 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 9 nights lodges, 2 nights permanent tented camp • All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 6 dinners included

6 Transfer followed by scenic ride on edge of the Songimvelo Game Reserve and on to our lodge.

ACCOMMODATION

Blyde River Canyon

Barberton

MZD

5 Transfer to Badplaas before getting on the bikes for a great ride to our lodge.

Local bike hire: Trek 7.3 FX hybrid bikes $300/€220, paid on booking.

Johannesburg

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

4 Transfer to Dundee; afternoon ride to Rorke's Drift Museum.

• Optional single supplement: $550/€390

Graskop

3 Cycle to the Northern Berg before hiking and a chance to swim at a waterfall.

13 Oct 10 Nov 01 Dec

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

cycle/drive

2 Ride over spectacular mountain pass with a chance of spotting wildlife; transfer to northern Drakensberg and cycle to our lodge.

2016 14 Feb 27 Mar 07 Aug

1 Start Johannesburg; transfer to Golden Gate N.P.

2015

Indian Ocean

Most properties are small, privately owned establishments that are clean and comfortable. Most nights we have en suite facilities with the exception of Kruger which has shared toilet and showerblocks. To fully experience the wilderness and beauty of the area we spend two nights camping under the stars in full-service permanent tents.

Drakensberg

7 Cyle to Kruger N.P. through the Kaaprivier Valley.

Cycling California & the Pacific Coast 7

Activity Level

The ultimate US road trip, by bike! This iconic ride takes us through the rolling hills of world renowned wine estates in Napa Valley, alongside towering Redwood trees and across the Golden Gate Bridge. Our route follows Coastal Highway 1 as it twists its way around rocky headlands, crashing waves stirring the numerous Elephant seal colonies that scatter the beaches below. Out of the saddle we explore the many incredible state parks, isolated beaches and prestigious wineries for which the region is so highly regarded, as well as re-fuelling on fine Californian cuisine.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

START

29 Mar 10 May 14 Jun 13 Sep 11 Oct 27 Mar 08 May 12 Jun 11 Sep 09 Oct

Daily Distance (km) 55 30 45 40

6 7 10 11

7 City tour of San Francisco; to Monterey Peninsula. 8 Cycle 17 Mile Drive; visit Point Lobos State Reserve; to Big Sur. ACCOMMODATION

Healdsburg Napa Valley

San Francisco

USA

CALIFORNIA

Santa Maria cycle/drive

Santa Barbara

Santa Monica

Channel Islands

P Premium F departure

• 10 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac following scenic sections of Coastal Highway 1 • Some challenging climbs • Group normally 6 to 12 plus leader. Min age 16 yrs • 12 nights hotels and lodges • All breakfasts and 10 lunches included

6 Ride across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Local bike hire: Norco hybrid bikes $380/€270, paid on booking

60 50 70 65

At a Glance

5 Cycle along Tomales Bay to Point Reyes National Seashore.

• Optional single supplement: $1240/€880

Big Sur

MAA

4 See the Russian River by bike.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Monterey

3 Ride through wine country.

08 Apr 20 May 24 Jun 23 Sep 21 Oct

Point Reyes

3 MODERATE

2 Cycle in Napa Valley; optional wine tasting.

2016

1 Start Healdsburg.

10 Apr 22 May 26 Jun 25 Sep 23 Oct

9 More game viewing, transfer to Hazyview.

11 Ride along the Panorama Route to God's Window via Bourke's Luck potholes rock formations; afternoon ride to Blyde River Canyon.

END

2015

8 Game drives in Kruger N.P.

10 Cycle to Sabie and on to Graskop; visit Mac Mac Falls.

Cycle through Napa Valley l Coastal views and wildlife l Visit San Francisco and L.A.

12 Drive to Johannesburg, end.

2 3 4 5

Magnificent scenery l Kruger National Park l Cycle through forests and canyons

26 Feb 09 Apr 20 Aug

$3990

Bridge on Pacific Coast Highway 1

South Africa

15 Feb 29 Mar 09 Aug

ROAD • USA

ROAD • SOUTH AFRICA

12 days land only

P Fdeparture P Solo

Los Angeles

F Family departure

At night we will relax in comfortable hotels and lodges where we can reminisce about the day's adventures. The standard of accommodation in California is high and rooms tend to be spacious with all the facilities you may need. The properties that we use are cycling-group friendly and well located for our route, enabling us to stay in different habitats and environments.

9 Visit McWay Falls; optional Hearst Castle excursion. 10 Explore Santa Maria Valley by bike. 11 To Santa Barbara, ride to Lake Casitas. 12 Free morning for optional excursions; cycle to Santa Monica. 13 End Los Angeles.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 6

50 60 60 60 70

8 9 10 11 12

65 65 65 55 60

from

8 days land only

$2280

from

Tulum Ruins, Riviera Maya

Cuba

Cycle Mexico

NEW

See iconic Chichen Itza l Discover colonial cities l Visit Mayan communities

Activity Level

Mexico is home to idyllic beaches, lively music, astonishing archaeology, exciting food and friendly people, making it the perfect destination for a fantastic cycling holiday. Following Yucatan's backroads, we cycle through colourful villages, explore magnificent Mayan pyramids and temples, and swim in the transparent waters of enormous canyons. We end the trip on the idyllic Riviera Maya, where there is the opportunity to snorkel on one of the world's longest coral reefs, or simply relax on a palm-filled Caribbean beach: the perfect way to unwind after a week cycling!

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

START END START END

09 Jan 06 Feb 12 Mar

18 Jan 15 Feb 21 Mar

31 Oct 14 Nov 05 Dec

09 Nov 23 Nov 14 Dec

Cancun

Coba

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

MEXICO

Tulum cycling transfers

Caribbean Sea

Cuban Highlights Ride 5

“The weather and food in the Yucatan are fantastic! During the rides you’ll enjoy the best of the region’s nature, and Mayan cultural highlights.”

Activity Level

Following country roads we cycle around the lush Bay of Pigs, site of the failed US 1961 invasion attempt, and swim in the inviting waters of the Caribbean. We spend time in the colourful UNESCO World Heritage cities of Cienfuegos and Trinidad, before cycling through the tropical forest of Topes de Collantes National Park to Lake Hanabanilla. We end the trip learning about Cuba’s revolutionary history, visiting Che Guevara’s Mausoleum before returning to Castro’s enigmatic capital - Havana.

Trip Code

LEISURELY/MODERATE

MAC

At a Glance • 4 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 90% tarmac, 10% unpaved tracks • Routes mainly follow quiet roads • Group normally 4 to 18 plus local staff. Min age 16 yrs • 5 nights hotels, 2 nights Casas Particulares • All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners included

1 Start Havana.

2015 08 Jan 15 Jan 22 Jan 05 Feb 12 Feb 19 Feb 05 Mar 12 Mar 19 Mar 09 Apr 23 Apr 30 Jul

8 Ride to Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and on to Tulum archaeological site. 9 Free day by the beach in Tulum. 10 End Tulum.

15 Jan 22 Jan 29 Jan 12 Feb 19 Feb 26 Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 Mar 16 Apr 30 Apr 06 Aug

13 Aug 24 Sep 08 Oct 15 Oct 22 Oct 29 Oct 05 Nov 12 Nov 19 Nov 26 Nov 03 Dec 21 Dec

20 Aug 01 Oct 15 Oct 22 Oct 29 Oct 05 Nov 12 Nov 19 Nov 26 Nov 03 Dec 10 Dec 28 Dec

2 Warm-up ride to Playa Larga with a swimming stop at Punta Perdiz; visit the Bay of Pigs; transfer to Cienfuegos. 3 Coastal cycle ride; afternoon free to swim and relax or explore surroundings. 4 Ride along Caribbean coastline to the World Heritage Site of Trinidad. 5 Optional catamaran trip, beach time or cycle ride through countryside.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

6 Cycle through Topes de Collantes N.P.; to Lake Hanabanilla.

• Optional single supplement: $190/€130 • Free airport transfer for any flight • Cayo Levisa beach extension available: see Trip Notes

7 Visit Che Guevara's Mausoleum in Santa Clara; to Havana. 8 Sightseeing in Old Havana; End.

Local bike hire: Trek 4900 mountain bikes with front suspension $110/€80, paid on booking

Daily Distance (km)

Daily Distance (km) 2 4 5

Itinerary - Day by Day

START END START END

28 78 75

6 7 8

Gulf of Mexico

61 76

Havana

ACCOMMODATION

We use tourist class hotels ranging from a good 3 star to simpler, rural hotels. Rooms are on a twin-share basis, with air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Some of the hotels have swimming pools.

CUBA

cycle/drive transfer

Santa Clara Bay of Pigs Topes de Collantes Cienfuegos Trinidad

Caribbean Sea

(optional)

Kenneth Johnson

Cycle through countryside l Vibrant Havana and Trinidad l Refreshing mojitos!

Dates & Price Guide

7 Ride to Coba and drive to Tulum.

Isla Mujeres

Yucatan

• 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 90% tarmac, 10% unpaved tracks • Routes mainly follow quiet roads • Group normally 6 to 18 plus leader. Min age 16 yrs • 9 nights hotels, 1 night lodge • All breakfasts and 1 dinner included

6 Cycle to Valladolid.

Local bike hire: Giant hybrid bikes $130/€100 paid on booking

Chichen Itza

At a Glance

5 Cycle to Chichen Itza.

• Optional single supplement: $570/€400

Valladolid

MAM

4 Ride from Merida to Izamal.

31 Oct 21 Nov 12 Dec

Izamal

LEISURELY/MODERATE

3 Drive to Merida.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Merida

2 Ferry to Isla Mujeres and ride around the island.

2016 22 Oct 12 Nov 03 Dec

1 Start Cancun.

2015 19 Jan 16 Feb 23 Mar 19 Oct

$1680

Typical road in central Cuba

Mexico

10 Jan 07 Feb 14 Mar 10 Oct

ROAD • CUBA

ROAD • MEXICO

10 days land only

ACCOMMODATION

All of our Cuban itineraries include staying in privately-run ‘Casas Particulares’ for two nights whilst in Trinidad. These are traditional homestays with bed and breakfast accommodation providing a unique opportunity to experience life with a Cuban family. All the properties that we use are located within a few blocks of each other, around a central meeting house.

2 3

40 45

4 6

45 40

“A beautiful place to cycle to and a vibrant and friendly place.” Jayne Tomlins

Applies to both MAC and MAH (on page 38).

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

ROAD • NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA, PANAMA

ROAD • CUBA

15 days land only

$2630

from

$3290

Ometepe Island

Cuba

Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama

Cycling Cuba

Sierra Maestra mountain range l Revolutionary history l Salsa and mojitos!

Activity Level

Cuba's music, beaches, vintage cars, striking architecture and revolutionary history combine to make the perfect cultural destination with a lively atmosphere. Our relaxed cycle route passes through stunning countryside with a patchwork of plantations, fields and jungle, allowing us to appreciate the traditional way of life that continues today. Out of the saddle we can experience Trinidad's vibrant music scene, the crumbling colonial buildings of Havana and learn about the revolutionary history of Santiago. After a day of cycling you'll no doubt welcome one of Cuba’s specialities - a refreshing mojito!

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

START END START END

29 Jan 05 Feb 12 Feb 26 Feb 05 Mar 12 Mar 26 Mar 02 Apr 09 Apr 23 Apr 30 Apr 07 May

23 Jul 06 Aug 17 Sep P 01 F Oct 15 Oct 22 Oct 29 Oct 12 Nov 19 Nov 26 Nov 17 Dec

06 Aug 20 Aug 01 Oct 15 Oct 29 Oct 05 Nov 12 Nov 26 Nov 03 Dec 10 Dec 31 Dec

28 Jan 04 Feb 11 Feb 25 Feb 03 Mar 10 Mar 31 Mar 07 Apr 14 Apr 28 Apr 05 May 04 Aug

04 Aug 18 Aug 15 Sep P 29 F Sep 13 Oct 20 Oct 27 Oct 10 Nov 17 Nov 24 Nov 15 Dec 22 Dec

18 Aug 01 Sep 29 Sep 13 Oct 27 Oct 03 Nov 10 Nov 24 Nov 01 Dec 08 Dec 29 Dec 05 Jan

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $380/€270 (not valid during Christmas period) • Free airport transfer for any flight • Cayo Levisa beach extension available: see Trip Notes Local bike hire: Trek 4900 mountain bikes with front suspension $190/€135, paid on booking

MODERATE

MAH

At a Glance • 10 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 90% tarmac, 10% unpaved tracks • Routes mainly follow quiet roads • Group normally 5 to 18 plus local staff. Min age 16 yrs • 12 nights hotels, 2 nights Casas Particulares • All breakfasts, 11 lunches and 4 dinners included

2 Tour of Havana; to Matanzas. 3 Ride/transfer to Playa Larga at Bay of Pigs. 4 Countryside cycling; transfer to Cienfuegos. 5 Coastal ride to Trinidad. P F

6 Free day in Trinidad. 7 Ride to Sancti Spiritus; transfer to Camaguey.

2016 14 Jan 21 Jan 28 Jan 11 Feb 18 Feb 25 Feb 17 Mar 24 Mar 31 Mar 14 Apr 21 Apr 21 Jul

1 Start Havana.

2015 15 Jan 22 Jan 29 Jan 12 Feb 19 Feb 26 Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 26 Mar 09 Apr 16 Apr 23 Apr

Havana

Bay of Pigs

P F

Gulf of Mexico Santa Clara Trinidad

CUBA

Camaguey cycle/drive

Caribbean Sea

Sierra Maestra

Santiago de Cuba

START END START END

18 Apr 08 Aug 26 Sep 17 Oct 31 Oct 07 Nov P F 14 Nov 28 Nov 19 Dec

FAMILY CYCLING

Daily Distance (km)

San Ometepe Island Juan del Sur Arenal Volcano

2 3 4 5 7

25 65 67 80 72

8 9 10 12 13

68 75 35

Our ‘Cuban Biking Adventure’ (trip code FNH) is perfect for families with children aged 12 - 16 yrs. Please call your agent for details.

Pacific Ocean

At a Glance • 12 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% tarmac, 20% unpaved tracks • Routes mainly follow quiet roads • Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader. Min age 16 yrs • 14 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

4 Ferry back to mainland; ride to San Juan del Sur. 5 To Costa Rica; ride through the valley at Bijagua with views of Miravalles and Tenorio volcanoes.

P F

6 Wildlife trip on Tenorio River; to Lake Arenal for cycling. 7 Cycle to La Fortuna.

cycle/drive/ferry transfer

Caribbean Sea

8 Jungle ride; visit thermal springs.

ACCOMMODATION

We stay in a mixture of colonial-style and modern hotels, all with en suite facilities. For premium departures we have upgraded the standard of accommodation in some destinations (Granada, San Juan del Sur, Bocas del Toro, Panama City) so that we're using the best hotels available in each area.

PANAMA

Cahuita Bocas del Toro

Santiago

Panama Canal

Panama City

Osa Peninsula

72 55

P Premium F departure

MUC

3 Cycle through Pueblos Blancos; ferry to Ometepe Island.

NICARAGUA

Managua Granada Lake Nicaragua

COSTA RICA

2 Ride along shore of Lake Nicaragua; visit Masaya Volcano N.P.

02 May 22 Aug 10 Oct 31 Oct 14 Nov 21 Nov 28 Nov 12 Dec 02 Jan

Local bike hire: Haro Escape or Cannondale Mountain Bikes with front suspension $290/€200, paid on booking

Canas

4 MODERATE/CHALLENGING

1 Start Granada.

2015

10 Short walk; ride to 'El Cobre'; transfer to Santiago de Cuba.

15 Sightseeing in Havana; afternoon end.

Itinerary - Day by Day

Dates & Price Guide

17 Jan 24 Jan 07 Feb 14 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 21 Mar 04 Apr 25 Apr

Trip Code

Starting in the graceful colonial city of Granada and ending in bustling Panama City, our route takes us into Costa Rica's steamy cloud forests, alongside active volcanoes and to the tropical island paradise of Bocas del Toro. The rainforest is home to an incredible variety of wildlife and bird species. We explore the island of Ometepe at Lake Nicaragua, and search for Howler monkeys whilst rafting on the Tenorio River. Our journey ends with a ride along the Panama Canal to see the famous Miraflores Locks.

03 Jan 10 Jan 24 Jan 31 Jan 07 Feb 14 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 11 Apr

Activity Level

Cycle in three countries l Tropical scenery l Relax in Bocas del Toro

• Optional single supplement: $540/€380 (Premium departures $860/€610)

13 Transfer to Majagua; ride to Mayajigua.

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

9 Ride into the Sierra Maestra Mountains.

14 To Havana via historic Remedios and Santa Clara.

Bayamo

Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

12 Coastal cycle ride; transfer to Camaguey. Gibara

8 Transfer/ride to Bayamo.

11 City tour; transfer to Gibara.

Mayajigua

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

9 Cycle through tropical lowlands; transfer/ride to Cahuita. 10 Ride to Panama border; boat to Bocas del Toro islands. 11 Free day in Bocas del Toro. 12 Cycle to Pan-Am Highway; transfer to Santiago. 13 Tropical lowland forest ride; transfer to Panama City. 14 Ride alongside a stretch of the Panama Canal. 15 End Panama City.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 6 7

23 40 48 40 47 63

8 9 10 12 13 14

48 44 53 40 54 16

from

13 days land only

$3230

from

Give way to coatimundi

Colombia

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride Activity Level

Take in the variety of Costa Rica by bike, pedalling past rainforest, volcanoes and stunning sections of coastline. From San Jose we cycle south with vast Pacific views to the right and dense forest to the left. Crossing the 3400m Cerro de la Muerte pass into the Orosi Valley, we ride past coffee plantations and volcanoes to arrive on the fertile Caribbean plains where banana plantations take over the landscape. We take a break from the saddle to explore the wildlife-rich rivers and waterways of Tortuguero, before travelling to La Fortuna, a lovely spot located at the foot of Arenal Volcano.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

30 Oct 20 Nov 04 Dec 25 Dec

La Fortuna

Tortuguero N.P. Tortuguero

San Jose

Caribbean Sea Siquirres

Paraiso

COSTA

Parrita

RICA

Manuel Antonio N.P.

Pacific Ocean cycle/drive

Osa Peninsula Corcovado N.P.

Cerro de la Muerte

Golfito Puerto Jimenez

With Colombia's road cyclists gaining worldwide recognition and the country revelling in its status as an up and coming tourism destination, there really is no better time for a cycling trip to one of South America's most scenic regions. The coffee zone of Colombia lies at the heart of the country on the Western slopes of the Central Andes and our route traverses a lush environment populated by coffee plantations and picturesque towns. Your effort on two wheels will be duly rewarded with stunning views and the famously warm Latin American hospitality.

Trip Code

14 Mar 08 Aug

26 Mar 20 Aug

19 Sep

01 Oct

2016 13 Feb 25 Feb 06 Aug 12 Mar 24 Mar 17 Sep Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

18 Aug 29 Sep

• Optional single supplement: $420/€300 (not available in Roldanillo and Boquia) Local bike hire: Venzo mountain bikes with front suspension $350, paid on booking

7 Ferry to Golfito; ride/transfer to Las Cruces. 8 Hike at Las Cruces Botanical Garden; cycle to Paso Real; transfer to Savegre Valley.

Anserma Chinchina

9 Cycle in the Orosi Valley.

We stay in comfortable hotels with en suite facilities and most of the properties feature inviting swimming pools. There are 3 nights in remote mountain lodges with lush gardens and superb views; one with a famous tropical botanical garden.

Activity Level

6 Free day in Puerto Jimenez.

ACCOMMODATION

Bogota's car-free cycling day l Cycle the coffee region l Hike in Cocora Valley

2015

4 Wildlife hike in Manuel Antonio N.P; to Rio Savegre.

• Optional single supplement: $580/€410

NEW

START END START END

3 Boat tour; ride to Parrita.

26 Aug 04 Nov 02 Dec 23 Dec

Local bike hire: Haro Escape or Cannondale with front suspension $290/€200, paid on booking

CHALLENGING

MAY

At a Glance • 10 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 95% tarmac, 5% unpaved tracks • Routes predominantly follow quiet well-paved roads • Group normally 5 to 16 plus leader. Min age 16 yrs • 9 nights hotels, 3 nights fincas (farmhouse properties) • All breakfasts and 11 dinners included

Dates & Price Guide

2 Ride to Rio Tarcoles.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Rio Tarcoles

• 10 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% tarmac, 20% unpaved tracks • Routes mainly follow quiet roads • Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader. Min age 16 yrs • 13 nights hotels • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners included

5 To Osa Peninsula; ride to Puerto Jimenez.

13 Aug 22 Oct 19 Nov 10 Dec

Arenal Volcano

At a Glance

Cycling in Colombia

Periera

10 Ride to Siquirres; to Tortuguero N.P. 11 Free day.

Roldanillo

12 To La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano.

Zipaquira

Los Nevados N.P. Boquia

Bogota

Rio Verde

COLOMBIA

13 Cycle to Bajo Rodriguez; transfer to San Jose.

Buga

14 End San Jose.

Cali

41 43 57 75 24

8 9 10 12 13

54 51 47 49 46

25 86 67 48 62

P Premium F departure

1 Start Bogota. 2 Early arrival; bike fitting followed by Bogota 'Ciclovia' city ride and welcome dinner. 3 Visit to Zipaquira Salt Cathedral; fly to Cali and transfer to Buga. 4 Mostly flat ride following the Cauca River to Roldanillo. 5 Another flat ride passing fields of sugar cane and vineyards towards Zaragoza. 6 First mountain ride up in to coffee country and the town of Pueblo Tapao. 7 Some challenging climbs with rewarding views and coffee tasting on the way to Barcelona via Rio Verde. 8 A day of steady climbing through typical natural scenery to Boquia; included coffee tour and botanical gardens.

11 Gentle ride along the Cauca River before a climb to Anserma to finish.

Daily Distance (km) 2 4 5 6 7

The hotels we use are mid-range and will provide us with all the facilities that we'll require throughout the trip. A varied selection of properties includes a charming old house in the historic La Candelaria district of Bogota, and a wonderfully situated hotel in Chinchina surrounded by coffee plantations. The farmhouse properties in Roldanillo and Boquia are more basic and in these locations we are unable to guarantee single rooms or en suite facilities.

Itinerary - Day by Day

10 Some climbs in the morning towards Filandia followed by an exhilarating descent to Cerritos.

cycling transfer

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 7

ACCOMMODATION

9 Free day to relax; optional ride or hike to Salento and Cocora Valley.

29 Jan 04 Mar 25 Mar 08 Apr

MUD

uca

16 Jan 20 Feb 12 Mar 26 Mar

17 Oct 07 Nov 21 Nov 12 Dec

MODERATE

An d

30 Jan 06 Mar 27 Mar 10 Apr 28 Aug

17 Jan 21 Feb 14 Mar 28 Mar 15 Aug

1 Start San Jose.

2016

Cycle the Pacific coastline l Encounter Tortuguero's wildlife l Descend through the Orosi Valley

2015

$3330

Wax palm trees of Cocora Valley

Costa Rica

START END START END

ROAD • COLOMBIA

ROAD • COSTA RICA

14 days land only

8 9 10 11 12

P Fdeparture P Solo

12 Final day of riding involves a spectacular downhill section plus some climbs to Chinchina.

34 29 75

13 Transfer to Pereira; fly to Bogota; end Bogota.

58 61

F Family departure

from

14 days land only

$3610

from

$2850

Indein stupas

Luang Prabang

Burma

Laos, Thailand

Burma by Bike

Cycle the Thousand Temples of Bagan l Visit U Bein Bridge l Discover Inle Lake

Activity Level

In the words of Kipling, 'this is Burma and it is unlike any land you know about'. This may be even truer today when we arrive on two wheels in Bagan, one of Asia's holiest cities, giving you the chance to explore this cultural nerve centre of a country only now emerging from international isolation. Our route takes us through the Shan Highlands, crossing the central plains around Mandalay, and on a fabulous descent from Mt Popa. After all this riding we get a welcome respite, floating down the Irrwaddy River and exploring Inle Lake with its famous floating markets.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

5 Cycle across Shan Highland to Pindaya; visit Pindaya caves.

Monywa

Mingun

6 Drive/cycle to Mandalay.

Mandalay

Pakkoku

Pindaya Caves

Bagan

Cycling in Laos 6

Mt Popa

Heho

Inle Lake

BURMA

7 Visit U Bein Bridge then ride to Mingun and return to Mandalay by boat. 8 Cycle/drive to Monywa; optional visit to Po Win Taung Caves. 9 Drive/cycle to Pakkoku; scenic boat ride on Irrawaddy River to Bagan.

cycle/drive

10 Explore Bagan temple complex by bike. 11 Drive to Mt Popa then cycle back to Bagan. 12 Free morning; afternoon flight to Rangoon. Rangoon Andaman Sea

Daily Distance (km) 2 15 3 4 31 5 6

54 66 54

7 8 9 10 11

65 60 67

13 Rangoon city tour including the old colonial areas of this former capital.

Remote route with few tourists l Charming Luang Prabang l Scenic mountain roads

Activity Level

The land of a million elephants, is now the land of a million smiles. Laos boasts stunning mountainous landscape and a laid back atmosphere, the result of a long isolation from its neighbours. Our route takes us through some spectacular scenery, from narrow roads shaded by jungle vines to shimmering rice paddies and mountains which are home to a mix of ethnic groups. Out of the saddle, we walk through villages and bamboo forest and visit Luang Prabang with striking colonial buildings, tree-lined avenues and colourful temples. We finish our trip in bustling Bangkok. The cycling is demanding at times, but our reward is to have roads almost to ourselves in South East Asia's friendliest and least known country.

Trip Code

START

15 Feb 15 Mar 09 Aug 25 Oct 15 Nov 06 Dec 07 Feb 06 Mar

Local bike hire: Trek/Specialized mountain bikes with front suspension $210/€150, paid on booking.

Luang Namtha

LAOS Pak Beng

Luang Prabang Vang Vieng Vientiane

THAILAND

cycle/drive train boat

14 End Rangoon.

40 45

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

6 Cycle a loop around the picturesque countryside pausing at Moung Sing, the city of hill tribe culture.

ACCOMMODATION

We will spend one night on the banks of the Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, staying at The Elephant Crossing Hotel. Boasting breathtaking views of the striking karst limestone mountains, this location offers the perfect opportunity to watch the world go by with a sundowner and absorb the serene pace of Laotian life.

7 Rural cycle to the Udomxai province; arrive Pak Beng. 8 Board slow boat on the Mekong to Luang Prabang visiting Buddha Caves en route. 9 Cycle to beautiful Kwang Si Waterfalls. Chance to see monks receiving alms at dawn. 10 Cycle from Luang Prabang to picturesque Vang Vieng through stunning mountainous terrain. 11 Scenic drive south through striking karst landscape; cycle to sedate capital Vientiane.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 6 7

Bangkok

P Premium F departure

• 11 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • Surfaces are mostly good but with some broken tarmac and unsurfaced sections • There are some tough climbs and long downhills • Group normally 6 to 18, plus local leaders. Min age 16 yrs • 11 nights hotels, 1 night boat, 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts included

5 Cycle to Luang Nam Tha to the hill tribe village Tai Dang.

• Optional single supplement: $670/€480 (hotel nights only)

Chiang Mai

At a Glance

4 Journey to border town of Ban Sew for boat ride on the mighty Mekong, cycle into Laos.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Chiang Rai

MOL

3 Transfer to Chiang Rai; cycle along the Thai/Burma border into the heart of the Golden Triangle.

20 Feb 19 Mar

Moung Sing

2 Warm-up ride around Chiang Mai old town and visit Doi Suthep hilltop temple.

28 Feb 28 Mar 22 Aug 07 Nov 28 Nov 19 Dec 2016

4 MODERATE/CHALLENGING

1 Start Chiang Mai.

END

2015

Itinerary - Day by Day

Dates & Price Guide

Bay of Bengal

NEW

kon

addy

Irraw

• Optional single supplement: $950/€670

• 10 days cycling with 95% vehicle support • Mostly good roads but with some unsurfaced sections • Route mostly back roads and a few main roads with minimal traffic • Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leaders. Min age 16 yrs • 13 nights hotels • All breakfasts included.

4 Ride to minority villages around Inle Lake.

03 Jan 16 Jan 11 Sep 24 Sep 24 Jan 06 Feb 09 Oct 22 Oct 21 Feb 05 Mar 30 Oct 12 Nov 28 Feb 12 Mar 13 Nov 26 Nov 06 Mar 19 Mar 27 Nov 10 Dec 27 Mar 09 Apr 15 Dec 28 Dec 10 Jul 23 Jul Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Anna Dambrosio

At a Glance

3 Cycle to Inthein pagodas, then cruise on Inle Lake past craft industries and floating markets, and see the famous leg-rowing fishermen.

2016

“If you want to see the ‘real’ Burma, jump on a bike. An unforgettable experience.”

MOB

2 Fly to Heho and drive to Inle Lake; short ride.

19 Sep 10 Oct 24 Oct 07 Nov 21 Nov 05 Dec 27 Dec

Local bike hire: Trek mountain bikes with front suspension $190/€135, paid on booking

MODERATE

06 Sep 27 Sep 11 Oct 25 Oct 08 Nov 22 Nov 14 Dec

1 Start Rangoon (Yangon).

2015 17 Jan 07 Feb 21 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 08 Apr 01 Aug

Itinerary - Day by Day

START END START END

04 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 22 Feb 08 Mar 26 Mar 19 Jul

ROAD • LAOS, THAILAND

ROAD • BURMA

14 days land only

20 80 60 75 75 75

8 10 9 10 11 12 30

12 Free morning to explore then cross over the Friendship Bridge into Thailand; board overnight train to Bangkok. 60 60 60

13 Bangkok city tour; free afternoon. 14 End Bangkok.

from

14 days land only

$2090

from

Halong Bay

Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam

Cycling Vietnam

The best of Vietnam on two wheels l Mouth-watering cuisine l Charming Hoi An

Activity Level

This superb trip combines some of the best cycling routes in Vietnam with time to explore this beautiful country with its long coastline of broad, sandy beaches, shimmering paddy fields and mountains cloaked in forests. Our route takes us from the vibrant streets of Saigon northwards to the more traditional capital Hanoi. There is time to relax in the lively beachside town of Nha Trang and enjoy laid-back Hoi An with its wooden merchant houses, pagodas and bustling market. Finally, we take a cruise around the incredible seascape of Halong Bay with its limestone spires rising directly from the sea.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide END

START

HALONG BAY

END

2015 04 Jan 18 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 15 Feb 01 Mar 08 Mar 15 Mar 22 Mar 29 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 17 May 24 May 07 Jun 14 Jun 28 Jun 05 Jul

17 Jan 31 Jan 07 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 Apr 02 May 09 May 16 May 30 May 06 Jun 20 Jun 27 Jun 11 Jul 18 Jul

19 Jul 26 Jul 09 Aug 23 Aug 06 Sep 13 Sep 20 Sep 27 Sep 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct 25 Oct 01 Nov 08 Nov 15 Nov 22 Nov 29 Nov 06 Dec 13 Dec 20 Dec 27 Dec

01 Aug 08 Aug 22 Aug 05 Sep 19 Sep 26 Sep 03 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Oct 07 Nov 14 Nov 21 Nov 28 Nov 05 Dec 12 Dec 19 Dec 26 Dec 02 Jan 09 Jan

P F

One night will be spent on board a traditional junk boat on Halong Bay, the best way to soak up the landscape of this UNESCO site while star-gazing at night. Sailing through hundreds of limestone karsts that rise dramatically from the emerald water, this is the perfect way to relax at the end of your cycling adventure.

3 MODERATE

MOV

At a Glance • 9 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with 90% vehicle support • Surfaces are nearly all good tarmac • The route is flat with the exception of Dalat and the Hai Van Pass • Group normally 7 to 18, plus local leaders. Min age 16 yrs • 11 nights comfortable hotels, 1 night boat, 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 1 dinner included

Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Saigon. 2 A mix of driving and cycling to the Cu Chi tunnels. 3 Drive towards the coast and cycle to Mui Ne. 4 Cycle to Dalat in the Central Highlands. 5 Cycle through Bidoup N.P. to Nha Trang and the beach. 6 Cruise around islands with seafood lunch and snorkelling. 7 Drive to beautiful Dai Lanh Beach; coastal ride to Quy Nhon. 8 Further coastal ride stopping en route at sand dunes; then transfer to Hoi An. 9 Sightseeing in Hoi An or optional cycling; free afternoon. 10 Ride over the spectacular Hai Van Pass; cycle and drive on to Hue.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

11 Explore Hue and surroundings by bike and boat; overnight train to Hanoi.

• Optional single supplement: $460/€330 (hotel nights only) Local bike hire: Giant Revel 2 mountain bikes with front suspension $160/€115, paid on booking

12 Arrive Hanoi; drive to Halong Bay; board boat and cruise/ kayak among spectacular limestone formations.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 7

$2190

Bayon temples, Angkor

Vietnam

START

ROAD • THAILAND, CAMBODIA, VIETNAM

ROAD • VIETNAM

14 days land only

35 50 60 100 90

8 30 9 5-20 10 11 25

13 Return to Hanoi; city tour including the Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison and the Old Quarter. 80

14 End Hanoi.

Cycle Indochina & Angkor 6

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

Cycle three countries l Awe-inspiring ancient monuments l Explore incredible Angkor by bike

Activity Level

This journey takes us through three countries with divergent histories and subtly different cultures. From the bustling streets of Bangkok, to the serene tranquillity of the shimmering paddy fields and the magnificence of Angkor’s temples, we see a little piece of everything these amazing countries have to offer. In Vietnam we enter the Mekong Delta, a spectacular patchwork of rice paddies and waterways. Our journey finishes in Saigon where the vibrant street life contrasts starkly with the rural areas we have cycled through.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide START

END

START

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

END

2015 04 Jan 11 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 22 Feb 01 Mar 08 Mar 15 Mar 22 Mar 29 Mar 05 Apr 12 Apr 19 Apr 26 Apr 03 May 10 May 07 Jun 21 Jun 05 Jul

17 Jan 24 Jan 07 Feb 21 Feb 07 Mar 14 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr 18 Apr 25 Apr 02 May 09 May 16 May 23 May 20 Jun 04 Jul 18 Jul

19 Jul 02 Aug P 09 F Aug 13 Sep 20 Sep 27 Sep P F 04 Oct 11 Oct 18 Oct P 25 F Oct 01 Nov 08 Nov 15 Nov 22 Nov 29 Nov 06 Dec 13 Dec 20 Dec 28 Dec

01 Aug 15 Aug 22 Aug 26 Sep 03 Oct 10 Oct 17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Oct 07 Nov 14 Nov 21 Nov 28 Nov 05 Dec 12 Dec 19 Dec 26 Dec 02 Jan 10 Jan

P F

Bangkok

• Optional single supplement: $460/€330 (hotel nights only); Premium departures $610/€430 Local bike hire: Trek/Giant mountain bikes with front suspension $210/€150, paid on booking

Daily Distance (km) 82 67 89 45 35

70 28 50 35

MOC

At a Glance • 9 days cycling with 95% vehicle support • Mostly good tarmac with some easy dirt roads • Traffic levels higher near the larger towns, you should be comfortable riding occasionally in traffic • Group normally 7 to 18, plus local leaders. Min age 16 yrs • 13 nights hotels, 1 night guesthouse • All breakfasts and 1 dinner included

Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Bangkok. 2 Early transfer to Khao Yai N.P; warm up ride on jungle roads/trail. 3 Cycle to Sa Keaw. 4 Ride to Aranyaprathet. 5 Into Cambodia and on to Siem Reap. 6 First of two full days to explore the temple complex of Angkor by bus and bike, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the Bayon and Banteay Srei.

8 Drive to Phnom Penh, stopping at Skuon.

Angkor

CAMBODIA Aranya- Siem prathet Reap Skuon Tonle VIETNAM Sap Cu Chi Phnom Tunnels cycle/drive Penh Vinh Long

7 10 11 12

3 MODERATE

7 Second day at Angkor temple complex.

THAILAND Khao Yai N.P.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

2 3 4 5 6

On these departures we stay in a range of excellent hotels, ranging from comfortable modern properties to older ones bursting with character. Some have pools and a high standard of excellent facilities. We will still stay in the standard guesthouse in the Mekong Delta on premium trips despite this not being premium accommodation, as this is regarded as a highlight by many people.

Saigon

9 Sightseeing including Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the 'Killing Fields'. 10 Transfer to Takeo then cycle to Vietnam border and Chau Doc. 11 Drive/cycle through the Mekong Delta to Vinh Long; catch boat to homestay. 12 Transfer to Cai Be for floating market; scenic cycle along Mekong riverbank; transfer to Saigon. 13 Free day. 14 End Saigon.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

13 days land only

$1520

from

Angkor Wat

China NEW

Cruise along the mighty Mekong l Explore Ho Chi Minh City l Cycle Angkor, the world's largest temple site

Activity Level

An exciting adventure following the mighty Mekong on two wheels. Starting our journey in frenetic and vibrant Saigon provides a direct contrast to the rural landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia that we enjoy for the majority of this trip. We travel through small villages and weave our way through the miles of rice paddies and waterways of the Delta before working our way north for the magnificent culmination of the trip: the awe inspiring Angkor temple complex embedded deep in ancient jungle. See two diverse countries and cycle for seven full days, all in just over a week.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

START

END

FLIGHT INC

LAND ONLY

01 Mar 22 Mar 02 Aug 18 Oct 08 Nov 22 Nov 20 Dec 21 Feb 13 Mar 07 Aug 16 Oct 20 Nov 18 Dec

3 MODERATE

MOA

At a Glance • 7 days cycling with 95% vehicle support • Mostly good tarmac with some easy dirt roads • Largely flat cycling with a couple of minor hills only • Group normally 6 to 18, plus local leaders. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels, 1 night homestay • All breakfasts and 1 dinner included

Cycling the Backroads of China 6

This exciting new cycling trip explores the very best of rural south-west China. Taking in some of the most famous images of China, including the giant pandas of Sichuan and the karst scenery of Yangshuo, you will embark on a ride through some of the region’s best kept secrets. Starting in Chengdu, you will journey to Guiyang and begin cycling through breathtaking scenery, terraced rice fields and to ancient villages, alongside rivers and streams lined with bamboo.

Trip Code

START

END

13 Apr 08 Jun 05 Oct 09 Nov 11 Apr

Siem Reap

CAMBODIA

ng Meko

Tonle Sap

cycle/drive

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

5 Enter Cambodia; ride along coastal palm-lined roads; sunset viewing from Kep N.P.

Local bike hire: Giant ATX mountain bikes with front suspension $170/€120, paid on booking

CHINA Chengdu

Phnom Penh

Kep N.P.

VIETNAM Chau Doc M

Ha Tien

One night will be spent at a homestay on an island in the Mekong Delta. This is a tranquil evening where we sleep at a simple guesthouse built in the style of a traditional local house and have the chance to sample some delicious local delicacies.

2 3 4 5

60 80 80 75

Chengdu

Leshan

Road Rail Cycling areas

6 7 8

At a Glance • 9 days cycling with 95% vehicle support • 85% tarmac, 15% good tracks • Undulating terrain with some steeper sections • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 11 nights hotels, 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts and 11 lunches included

4 Transfer to start point of cycling; cycle to Miao village of Xijiang.

• Optional single supplement: $500/€360

Xijiang Yongle Congjiang Sanjiang

Guiyang

Daily Distance (km)

MCA

3 Drive to Leshan Giant Buddha; transfer back to Chengdu to visit giant panda centre; overnight train to Guiyang.

4 Cycle to Ha Giang Bridge through rice paddies to seaside town of Ha Tien.

ACCOMMODATION

Angkor

2 Explore Gao Miao and Liujiang; overnight in Liujiang.

23 Apr

9 End Siem Reap.

3 MODERATE

1 Start Chengdu; optional visit to the famous Sichuan ‘face changing’ opera..

2016

Itinerary - Day by Day

LAND ONLY

24 Apr 19 Jun 16 Oct 20 Nov

8 Full day at Angkor temples, cycling providing the best way to explore this immense site.

Local bike hire: Specialized Hard Rock mountain bikes with front suspension $120/€90, paid on booking

FLIGHT INC

2015

7 Cycle to Phnom Penh for short flight to Siem Reap; sneak preview of Angkor complex.

• Optional single supplement: $270/€190

Activity Level

6 Remote countryside cycling through salt fields and pepper plantations in Kampot.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

NEW

Chengdu giant pandas l Spectacular scenery l Cycle through rural communities

3 Transfer by boat to Chau Doc, in the foothills of picturesque Sam Mountain.

29 Feb 21 Mar 15 Aug 24 Oct 28 Nov 26 Dec

Dates & Price Guide

2 Cycle to the rice bowl of Vietnam for Mekong Delta homestay.

09 Mar 30 Mar 10 Aug 26 Oct 16 Nov 30 Nov 28 Dec 2016

1 Start Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

2015

$3610

Karst peaks of Yangshuo

Vietnam, Cambodia

Mekong Delta & Angkor Ride

ROAD • CHINA

ROAD • VIETNAM, CAMBODIA

9 days land only

Longsheng

Guilin Yangshuo

60 65

5 Transfer out of Xijiang, incredibly scenic ride ending in Yongle.

ACCOMMODATION

6 Transfer to Baji; ride along Du Liu Jiang River to Congjian.

On the first night in Chengdu, we stay in a 4-star hotel to ensure you get a good nights rest after a long journey. Once the cycling begins we will be staying predominantly in small family run boutique guesthouses, all well located so we can really soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the traditional hospitality.

40 80 75 50 50 55

10 11 12

8 Start cycling after a short transfer along a beautiful stretch to Dudong; undulating ride to Tongle for lunch; transfer to Sanjiang; cycle to Chengyang Qiao old town. 9 Free morning to explore the village; transfer to Longsheng rice terraces; cycle into the Longsheng N.P. for sunset. 10 Cycle again through the Longsheng Park; transfer to Yangshuo. 11 Cycle the spectacular karst scenery through bamboo forests; cross the Li River by ferry; end the day in Xingping.

Daily Distance (km) 4 5 6 7 8 9

7 Transfer and then cycle to Guandong for lunch; ride on to Zhaoxing.

70 50 40

12 Take a boat on the Li River towards Yangdi; cycle rural backroads to Baisha local markets; ride to Yangshuo. 13 End Guilin Airport.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

14 days land only

$2360

from

Rural cycling near Jaipur

India

Cycling through Rajasthan

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

See palaces, temples and wildlife l Ride along rural backroads l Marvel at the Taj Mahal

Activity Level

Rajasthan has landscapes varying from green rolling hills to barren deserts. The whole state is dotted with dramatic fortresses and the countryside is a patchwork of villages and towns where we see the timelessness of rural India. From the captivating Mehrangarh Fort at Jodhpur, the lakeside palace of Udaipur, the holy town of Pushkar and onto the superb 'pink city' of Jaipur, each place has its own story to tell. A fitting way to finish the trip is at the magnificent Taj Mahal. Cycling is the perfect way to explore, offering a fascinating insight into the traditional way of life here.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide END

START

2015 24 Jan 07 Feb 21 Feb 07 Mar 26 Sep

07 Feb 21 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 10 Oct

10 Oct

24 Oct

P F 31 Oct‡ 14 Nov

P F

14 Nov* 28 Nov 28 Nov 12 Dec 19 Dec 02 Jan 2016

16 Jan 30 Jan 22 Oct‡ 05 Nov P F 05 Nov* 19 Nov 06 Feb 20 Feb 20 Feb 05 Mar 19 Nov+ 03 Dec 05 Mar 19 Mar 17 Dec 31 Dec 08 Oct 22 Oct Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: from $650/€460 (excludes sleeper trains) • Free airport transfer for any flight

• *Pushkar fair departure see Trip Notes. • ‡Diwali Festival - see Trip Notes

Local bike hire: Trek X-Caliber 6 & 7 mountain bikes with front suspension $210/€150, paid on booking

INDIA

RAJASTHAN Thar Desert

Jaipur Fatehpur Sikri Pushkar

Jodhpur

These selected departures will spend an extra night in Delhi at the start of the trip and the journey from Delhi to Jodhpur will be an internal flight rather than overnight train. The hotels on these departures are excellent, ranging from comfortable modern properties such as the Jaypee Palace Hotel in Agra, to heritage forts and palaces such as the Lalit Laxmi Villas in Udaipur, bursting with character. Many have pools, and most have excellent facilities as well as restaurants serving tasty local specialities and international dishes.

Agra

2 25 3 20 4 5 20 6 7

75 75 57

MODERATE

MIJ

At a Glance • 11 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with 100% vehicle support • Surfaces are nearly all good tarmac • Mostly quiet backroads with some traffic near cities • Group normally 5 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 13 nights hotels and 1 overnight train • All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 1 dinner included

1 Start Delhi. 2 Morning cycle tour of New Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour of Old Delhi; overnight train to Jodhpur. 3 Arrive Jodhpur; free morning then afternoon city cycle tour. 4 Ride/drive to Udaipur via Jain Temple at Ranakpur; cycle towards lakeside town of Udaipur. 5 Cycle tour of Udaipur and its surroundings including City Palace and Jagdish Temple.

8 10 11 12 13

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide START

END

Khumbhalgarh Udaipur

START

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

END

2015 11 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 15 Feb 22 Feb 08 Mar 15 Mar 29 Mar 05 Apr 26 Jul 02 Aug 16 Aug

24 Jan 07 Feb 21 Feb 28 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 11 Apr 18 Apr 08 Aug 15 Aug 29 Aug

06 Sep

19 Sep

P 20 F Sep 03 Oct

17 Oct 24 Oct 18 Oct 31 Oct 08 Nov 21 Nov 15 Nov 28 Nov 22 Nov 05 Dec 29 Nov 12 Dec 13 Dec 26 Dec P F 20 Dec 02 Jan 27 Dec 09 Jan

P F

04 Oct

P F 11 Oct

P F

Mysore

Srirangapatnam

Bandipur

Ootacamund

Nilgiri Hills

Guruvayoor

INDIA

Cochin

13 Morning cycle to bird sanctuary; cycle to Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted royal city; transfer to Agra; Taj Mahal at sunset.

Alleppey

KERALA

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

MIK

At a Glance • 10 days cycling (including 1 short ride) with 100% vehicle support • Mostly surfaced roads, a few rough sections • Fairly challenging with an overall downhill bias • Group normally 5 to 14, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 9 nights hotels and 3 nights lodge, 1 night houseboat • All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 4 dinners included.

7 37 8 10 11 7 12

1 Start Mysore. 2 Ride to Srirangapatnam ruins; return to Mysore; afternoon explore the city including the Maharaja Palace. 3 Cycle Mysore Plateau to Nanjangud; transfer to Bandipur N.P. 4 Morning optional visit to Bandipur; ride to Mudumalai N.P. 5 Optional ascent to Ooty Hillstation (13km climb), former summer capital of the Raj; free afternoon to explore the town. 6 Descend through Western Ghats tea plantations; transfer to Guruvayoor in tropical Kerala. 7 Circular ride on rural roads; evening Pooja.

Daily Distance (km) 2 37 3 42 4 34 5 27 6

Itinerary - Day by Day

On these departures we stay in a range of excellent hotels, ranging from comfortable modern properties typical of the region. Many have pools, and most have excellent facilities as well as restaurants serving tasty local specialities and international dishes. The air-conditioned houseboats we use on these departures are of a higher standard with extra space and a more varied menu.

• Optional single supplement: $850/€610 (Premium departures $1225/€870)

8 Cycle along coastal roads; ferry to Fort Cochin. 83 60 88

9 Free day in Cochin to explore the bazaars and the old harbour. 10 Cycle past old Portuguese houses; continue to Vambanad Lake and Alleppey. 11 Explore Alleppey town before backwater boat trip; overnight on traditional Keralan houseboat. 12 Cliff-top ride to laid-back Varkala.

Backwaters

13 Free to relax on the beach and eat the wonderful seafood. 14 End Varkala.

Varkala

Trivandrum

15 End Delhi. Ranakpur

Beautiful landscapes, fascinating towns, stunning beaches and superb food, southern India is an excellent place to discover by bike. From the cool heights of the Western Ghats, where the sanctuaries hide excellent wildlife, to the quiet backwaters and elaborately decorated Hindu temples of Kerala, this trip offers the chance to cycle through colourful villages where rural life has remained little-changed for centuries. The final coastal ride to Varkala rewards us with time to relax on the beach and reflect on an unforgettable experience.

11 Morning game drive; optional village visit by bike or camel cart.

14 Visit Agra Fort; transfer to Delhi; evening free.

Activity Level

Local bike hire: Trek 4300 mountain bikes with front suspension $220/€155, paid on booking

12 Ride/drive to Bharatpur N.P., renowned for its bird sanctuary.

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

Cycle striking countryside l Diverse culture, religion and people l Traditional houseboat cruise

7 Ride/drive to Pushkar; optional sunset walk to hilltop temple.

10 Ride/drive to Sariska N.P. via Pratap Garh.

70 OPTIONAL RIDE 85 40

Cycle Kerala & Tropical India

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

9 Sightseeing tour of Jaipur.

6 Ride on backroads to the fort of Kumbhalgarh.

8 Ride/drive to Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan, via rural villages and Rupnagar.

Daily Distance (km)

Delhi

Sariska Bharatpur

P F

Itinerary - Day by Day

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

END

$2340

Tea plantations, Western Ghats

India

START

ROAD • INDIA

15 days land only

cycle/drive train

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

14 days land only

$3140

from

Rural cycling meeting the locals

Sri Lanka 1

Two distinctively different states l Delicious and varied local cuisine l Stay in two palatial mansions

Activity Level

The two southernmost states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala perfectly depict the contrasting nature of India. Seeing them on two wheels gives the opportunity to soak up the rich culture and appreciate the different landscapes as we cycle by. We pass some of the most impressive sites of southern India, including the former French colony of Pondicherry and the magnificent Meenakshi Temple at Madurai. After the cooler highlands and tea estates of the Western Ghats we reach the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, where a relaxing houseboat cruise offers the chance to reflect on a memorable journey.

Trip Code

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

MIT

At a Glance • 10 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • Mostly quiet backroads • Ride door-to-door on most days • Group normally 4 to 14, plus local leader, Min age 16 yrs • 10 nights hotels, 1 night houseboat, 2 nights Indian grand homes • All breakfasts, 11 lunches and 8 dinners included.

Dates & Price Guide START

END

START

END

Itinerary - Day by Day

2015 11 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 08 Mar 22 Mar

24 Jan 07 Feb 21 Feb 21 Mar 04 Apr

10 Jan 24 Jan 14 Feb 28 Feb 13 Mar

23 Jan 06 Feb 27 Feb 12 Mar 26 Mar

04 Oct 18 Oct 15 Nov 29 Nov 20 Dec

1 Start Chennai; transfer to Pondicherry via the shore temples of Mahabalipuram.

17 Oct 31 Oct 28 Nov 12 Dec 02 Jan

2 Circular ride passing the spiritual commune of Auroville. After lunch in the old quarter the afternoon is free.

2016 02 Oct 23 Oct 06 Nov 27 Nov 18 Dec

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $940/€670 • *Departure led by Peter Bluck, see Trip Notes for more details Local bike hire: Trek Marlin mountain bikes with front suspension $230/€160, paid on booking

Chennai (Madras) Mahabalipuram

cycle transfer

INDIA

3 Pleasant ride along village roads; to Kumbakonam, famed for its bronze deity casting.

15 Oct 05 Nov 19 Nov 10 Dec 31 Dec

TAMIL NADU

Pondicherry

4 Riverside ride to the 16th Century Nayak's capital of Thanjavur; afternoon free to visit the town and Royal Palace. 5 Long ride through the Tamil Nadu heartland to Chettinad, renowned for it palatial mansions.

ACCOMMODATION

Most of the hotels are comfortable tourist-class and all have en suite rooms. Two nights will be spent in Indian grand homes; one of these is a palatial wedding mansion built by the Chettis and the other is a 19th Century plantation owner's family home providing a real insight into the heritage and history of southern India.

Kumbakonam

KERALA Western Cochin

Ghats

Thanjavur Madurai

Alleppey Thekkady

Chettinad

2 3 4 5 6

48 101 95 102 99

7 9 10 11 12

6 Scenic backroads ride to Madurai, a highlight of any trip to India. 7 Free morning; transfer to lunch then ride past Indian vineyards before a final ascent into the Western Ghats; overnight Thekkady. 8 Free day to stroll around the hill station or visit Periyar N.P. 9 A hilly days ride through the tea estates with a refreshing stop at a tea factory; after lunch scenic ride to Vagamon. 10 Cycle through rubber and spice plantations to Kottayam, the Syrian Christian heartland of Kerala.

Cycle the Backroads of Sri Lanka

40 70 75 35 61

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

Dates & Price Guide END

START

2015 11 Jan 25 Jan 08 Feb 22 Feb 08 Mar 29 Mar 05 Apr 26 Jul 02 Aug 16 Aug 13 Sep

24 Jan 07 Feb 21 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 11 Apr 18 Apr 08 Aug 15 Aug 29 Aug 26 Sep

04 Oct 11 Oct P F 18 Oct 01 Nov P 08 F Nov 15 Nov 22 Nov 29 Nov P F 20 Dec 27 Dec

17 Oct 24 Oct 31 Oct 14 Nov 21 Nov 28 Nov 05 Dec 12 Dec 02 Jan 09 Jan

P F P F

P F

We stay in a range of excellent hotels, ranging from comfortable modern properties to older properties bursting with character. The Amaya Lake Resort in Dambulla is a highlight, set in acres of lush green grounds with sweeping views of Kandalama Lake.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Polonnaruwa

Sigiriya

• Optional single supplement: $600/€430 (Premium departures $900/€640) Local bike hire: Trek mountain bikes with front suspension $240/€170, paid on booking.

Kandy

Colombo

FAMILY CYCLING

Our ‘Sri Lankan Biking Adventure’ (trip code FIW) is perfect for families with children aged 12 - 16 yrs. Please ask your agent for details.

SRI LANKA

cycle Nuwara transfer Eliya Ella

Tissamaharama Galle

Ahangama

Yala N.P.

Hambantota

2 3 4 5 7

14 End Cochin.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

MIR

At a Glance • 10 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with 100% vehicle support • 95% tarmac, 5% unsurfaced road • Routes mostly follow quiet backroads, with frequent climbs particularly around Nuwara Eliya • Group normally 6 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 11 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses • All breakfasts and 10 lunches included

1 Start Sigiriya. 2 Ride to Dambulla cave temple; afternoon climb Sigiriya Rock. 3 Ride to Polunnaruwa; cycle tour of ruins. 4 Ride through foothills of spice growing region. 5 Ride to Kandy. 6 Free day in Kandy.

52 73 80 53 82

8 Hill country ride to Ella. 9 Descent of 1000m, stopping at the impressive rock-cut Buddha statues at Buduruvagela; to Tissamaharama. 10 Morning ride to Kataragama Temple; afternoon drive to Yala N.P. for safari. 11 Ride through Bundala N.P. and the lagoon for spectacular birdlife; continue riding on coast to Hambantota; transfer to Ahangama. 12 Free day on beach; optional ride to Koggala. 13 Visit the Old Dutch Fort of Galle and explore the town; transfer to Colombo.

Daily Distance (km)

13 Free day in Fort Cochin with its Chinese fishing nets.

4 MODERATE/CHALLENGING

7 Challenging ride through tea estates to Nuwara Eliya.

P F

12 Coastal ride to Fort Cochin, stopping at Marari for lunch.

Itinerary - Day by Day

PREMIUM DEPARTURES

END

Trip Code

Although a compact island, Sri Lanka is incredibly diverse. Exploring on two wheels is the best way to see this rural country and experience the way of life of its friendly people. We travel from the ancient cities, and the fortress at Sigiriya, to the hill country towns of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya with their cooler temperatures and lush scenery. We visit Yala National Park, where we go in search of leopard, before ending the trip on the beaches of the beautiful south coast. Most of the route is a continuous ride, and transfers are kept to a minimum. START

Activity Level

Ancient cities and remote backroads l Rich history and culture l Search for leopard

11 Free morning to explore or relax by the lake before boarding a houseboat for a stunning backwater cruise.

Daily Distance (km)

$2740

Full cycling group with guides

India

Southern India Coast to Coast Ride

ROAD • SRI LANKA

ROAD • INDIA

14 days land only

8 66 9 102 10 32 11 60 12 OPTIONAL RIDE

14 End Colombo.

from

ROAD • NEPAL, TIBET

ROAD • NEPAL

14 days land only

20 days land only

$2190

from

$3900

Mount Everest’s north face

Nepal

Nepal, Tibet

Classic Nepal Ride

Explore Nepal's countryside l Spectacular terrain l Meet Nepal's famously friendly people

Activity Level

Nepal is famed for its stunning mountains, incredibly warm and friendly people, diverse culture and beautiful temples dotting the landscape. By exploring this incredible country by bike, you can immerse yourself in a huge range of different cultures, climates and landscapes, all in just two weeks. During the course of the trip you will ride in the foothills of the Himalayas, cycling through ancient cedar forests and picturesque farmland, with the chance to explore fascinating old towns and remote temples en route.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide START

01 Mar 22 Mar 18 Oct 15 Nov

14 Mar 04 Apr 31 Oct 28 Nov

06 Mar 27 Mar 09 Oct 20 Nov

19 Mar 09 Apr 22 Oct 03 Dec

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

MNN

At a Glance • 10 days cycling with 95% vehicle support • 70% surfaced roads and some dirt tracks • Undulating terrain throughout the trip • Group normally 4 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 13 nights hotels • All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 7 dinners included

2 Transfer out of Kathmandu to Pashupatinath then cycle to Bhaktapur; cycle past paddy fields to Godawari.

ACCOMMODATION

Tansen Daman

Bhaktapur Godawari Dakshinkali

Except for one night, all hotels are comfortable and of good quality. They are situated in good locations along the route and allow you to immerse yourself in the culture and scenic beauty of Nepal. Services and amenities vary but en suite facilities are provided throughout.

2 45 3 25 4 53 5 53 6 55

8 56 9 62 10 40 11 80 12 22

8 Ride to Beezhazari Tal and on to Narayanghat; transfer and ride to Lumbini, Buddha's birthplace. 9 Ride through remote villages to Butwal. 10 Cycle on the Siddhartha Highway to Tansen. 11 Descend to Ramdi, transfer to Pokhara.

13 Fly to Kathmandu; afternoon free. 14 End Kathmandu.

Activity Level

This land of rugged beauty, vast landscapes, brilliant skies and glittering peaks offers one of the ultimate biking challenges. After some essential time acclimatising around Kathmandu and Lhasa, our route takes us across high altitude deserts and over 5000m mountain passes on the way to Base Camp, for spectacular views of Everest’s north face, before making the 160km, 4600m descent into Nepal and the lush Kathmandu Valley. A tough trip, but for those who venture to the spectacular beauty of Tibet, the sense of achievement is guaranteed.

Trip Code

CHALLENGING/TOUGH

MCT

At a Glance • 16 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% good quality tarmac, 20% unsurfaced dirt roads • Extended periods at high altitude (average 4000m) • Group normally 4 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 18 yrs • 6 nights guest houses, 11 nights hotels, 2 nights camping • All breakfasts included

Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Kathmandu.

19 Ride through Kathmandu Valley to Kathmandu.

2 Warm-up ride along the roads and trails of the Kathmandu Valley.

20 End Kathmandu.

6 Ride out of Lhasa along Lhasa River to Chusul. 7 Transfer (or ride) over the Khamba La (4794m) and on to Yamdrok Lake; to Nagatze. 8 Ascend to Karo La (5045m) followed by 1000m descent to Gyantse. 9 Ride down to Shigatse. 10 Rest day in Shigatse and visit Tashilhunpo Monastery. 11 Cycle the passes of Tra La (4050m) and Tsuo La (4520m) to Lhatse. 12 Cycle across the Gyatso La (5248m). 13 Follow the Friendship Highway to Tingri. 14 Ride over the Lamma La Pass into Jarongbuk. 15 Rest day at Jarongbuk and cycle to Everest Base Camp (5200m). 16 Cycle over the Nam La (5100m) and down to Tingri. 17 Ride the passes of Lalung La (4950m) and Yarle Shung La (5200m) and start the epic downhill towards Nepal.

Dates & Price Guide START

END

2015

3 Fly to Lhasa.

5 Optional ride to Sera Monastery, or relax in Lhasa

7 Day in Chitwan; enjoy a dugout canoe trip and a safari in search of the Asian rhino.

The ultimate bike ride l Cycle to Everest Base Camp l 4600m descent into Nepal

4 Ride to Kulekhani Dam then through pine forest to Markhu; afternoon ride up to Daman.

12 Trek from Bagnas Tal to Kalikistan, cycle to Pokhara.

Daily Distance (km)

Lhasa to Kathmandu Ride

4 Acclimatisation ride around Lhasa including a visit to the Potala Palace.

6 Cycle or drive along the east west highway to Lothar Bridge. Leave the road and cycle to Chitwan.

Local bike hire: Trek 4400 mountain bikes with front suspension $290/€200, paid on booking

3 Cycle on tracks to Bungamati village; ride through the valley to Dakshinkali. Afternoon walk to visit Dakshinkali Temple.

5 Morning walk to nearby monastery; afternoon spectacular downhill ride to Hetauda in the lowlands.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $610/€440 • Free airport transfer for any flight

Lumbini

1 Start Kathmandu.

2016

Butwal

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

2015

ACCOMMODATION

21 Jun 19 Jul 09 Aug 06 Sep

10 Jul 07 Aug 28 Aug 25 Sep

19 Jun 17 Jul 14 Aug 11 Sep

08 Jul 05 Aug 02 Sep 30 Sep

2016

Due to the remote locations visited on this trip, accommodation options are limited but the stunning views and scenery will make up for the lack of creature comforts. Near Everest Base Camp we stay in permanent tents that are very spacious, and well equipped with stoves and hot water.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $590/€420 (not available every night) • Free airport transfer for any flight Local bike hire: Trek or Giant mountain bikes with front suspension $340/€240, paid on booking.

TIBET

Daily Distance (km) 2 25 4 30 5 40 6 7 8 9 11

Lhatse

70 105 100 94 150

12 13 14 15 8 16 17 18 19 20

85 62 52 70 75 50

cycle/drive Lhasa

Shigatse

Kamba Lalung Gyantse Karo La La Pang La La Yamdrok Lake Rongbuk Kathmandu

Everest

NEPAL

BHUTAN

18 Cross the border into Nepal and continue down towards the Kathmandu Valley.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

Drop Bars Emulate the pros on a specialist drop bar adventure. Relish the challenge of joining a world-class cyclosportive, get swept up in the electric atmosphere of the peloton and feel the elation and the achievement at the finish line. This is a challenge for even the fittest cyclist.

TRIP NAME

Mont Ventoux Cycling Weekend

TRIP CODE

San Remo-Nice Ride

MSN

Alpine Cols of the Tour de France

MWU

Raid Pyrennean Coast to Coast Ride

ACTIVITY LEVEL PAGE

MSV

MSP

6 NEW

NEW

Tour de France Special

MWW

Cape Argus Cycle Tour

MSH

Main Photograph: Mercantour National Park, France. Page 57.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

8 days land only

$1050

from

$1710

Climbing Ventoux from Bedoin

En route to Vence

France

Mont Ventoux Cycling Weekend 1

France, Italy 2

Activity Level

Standing at 1912m, Mont Ventoux is known as the 'Giant of Provence', a mass of bare limestone rock that dominates the region and can be seen from miles around. The region boasts some fabulous cycling and the climb has become famously associated with the Tour de France, featuring 14 times since 1951. After a couple of excellent warm up rides we tackle the climb from Bedoin, passing the Tommy Simpson memorial. This is the most famous and toughest route and a must-do summit for any Tour aficionado. For a greater challenge join us in May on the Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux departure of the trip and climb Mont Ventoux with around 3000 other cyclists.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

23 Apr 29 May* 02 Jul 10 Sep

26 Apr 01 Jun 05 Jul 13 Sep

21 Apr

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $250/€180 • *Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux departure (day 3 different to standard departure) Local hire bike: Giant Defy 2 road bikes with triple chainset $180/€130, paid on booking

FRANCE

Mont Ventoux Sault

Mont Ventoux Bedoin

Col des Tempetes

Marseille

Sault

Gorges de la Nesque

CHALLENGING/TOUGH

MSV

At a Glance • 4 days cycling (including 2 half day rides) with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads • Climbs are long and steady (average 7%) • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader/driver. Min age 18 yrs • 3 nights hotel • All breakfasts included

3 Ride through the magnificent Gorges de la Nesque to Bedoin and climb Mont Ventoux (1912m) by the most famous Tour de France route; long descent to Sault.

24 Apr

PROVENCE

2 Ride to Montbrun, then climb the Col de Macuegne (1068m) for views of Mont Ventoux. After an easier climb we then tackle the Col de l'Homme Mort (1213m) before returning to Sault.

2016

1 Start Sault at the foot of Ventoux. Short warm up ride through the Provencal countryside.

2015

Banon Simiane

A fantastic short cycling trip l Climb Mont Ventoux l Race in a cyclosportive

START

DROP BARS • FRANCE, ITALY

DROP BARS • FRANCE

4 days land only

GRAN FONDO DEPARTURE

For an extra challenge, join us on our special departure and take part in the Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux 2015. This fantastic sportive event takes in the best roads in Provence including the mighty Mont Ventoux and offers a 102km route with 2300m of climbing, or a 170km route with 3500m. Each year 3000 participants take part, from semi-professional riders to weekend cyclists simply looking to complete the challenging course. The trip follows the standard itinerary except that on day 3 you'll be riding the event starting in Beaumes de Venise. Please see the trip notes for full details.

San Remo-Nice Ride

NEW 2

This tour will bring you from the Italian to the French Riviera following the best parts of the coast and tackling some of the stunning climbs made famous by the Milan-San Remo and Paris-Nice bike races. You will discover the Riviera on two wheels, following roads away from the main traffic, passing beautiful hilltop villages with superb views of the coastline and the high mountains of the Mercantour National Park. Sunshine is practically guaranteed, and make sure you look out for the many professional riders and teams that call this area home.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

START

END

28 Mar 02 May 06 Jun 03 Oct

04 Apr 09 May 13 Jun 10 Oct

06 Feb 20 Mar

13 Feb 27 Mar

2016

“Long, winding roads with very little traffic. Perfect for cycling!”

MSN

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads • Hilly route going in and out from the coast • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 18 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

3 Circular ride through beautiful hilltop villages and over the famous Col de la Madone and the Col d'Eze.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

4 A hilly day over the Col du Castillon, Col de Braus and a steep climb from L'Escarene to Vence.

• Optional single supplement: $430/€310

5 Circular ride taking in the Col de Vence; a great climb often featured in the Paris-Nice race. 6 Climb up to Caussols at 1100m and stop at the pro's favourite boulangerie before a descent to Grasse.

87 25

6 CHALLENGING/TOUGH

2 Ride the Poggio climb, featured at the end of Milan-San Remo race; cycle back roads to the Italian Riviera, then into France at Menton.

38 105

1 Start San Remo; free time to sort out bikes and explore the town.

2015

Daily Distance (km) 1 2 3 4

Activity Level

Local bike hire: Carbon road bike $440/€310, Scott CR1 aluminium road bike $190/€135, paid on booking

4 End Sault.

Perfect cycling roads l Enjoy the sunshine on the French Riviera l Climb the Col de la Madone

FRANCE

Caussols

Mercantour N.P. Col de Braus

Col de Vence

Grasse

Vence

Menton

Nice

Eze 0

San Remo

MONACO 10

30 km

Jonathan Harris

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

7 Soak up the sun riding along the sea front to the Promenade des Anglais in Nice.

ITALY

F Family departure

8 Free morning to relax in Nice before the trip ends. ACCOMMODATION

We stay in a great selection of hotels, all ideally located along the route, near towns with a good choice of bars and restaurants, allowing you to indulge in the fantastic cuisine along the French and Italian Riviera. Rooming is on a twin share basis but a single supplement can be arranged on booking.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

62 52 76

5 6 7

52 75 42

from

8 days land only

$1770

from

Col du Lautaret

Italy, France

Alpine Cols of the Tour de France 1

Activity Level

This epic ride starts in the charming Italian town of Cuneo, before climbing into France for perhaps the most iconic climbs in cycling history. The first big challenge is the Col de la Bonnette, at 2802m it’s the highest col in Europe and a favourite of Robert Millar. From here the legendary climbs come in quick succession as we make our way across the spectacular cols of Vars, Izoard, Galibier and Croix de Fer. We finish the route by tackling the famous 21 hairpin bends to Alpe d'Huez, a memorable finish to a memorable trip!

Trip Code

START

2015

21 Jun 02 Aug 06 Sep 20 Sep

7 TOUGH

MWU

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads • Climbs are long and steady (average 7%) • Group normally 6 to 16 plus leader/driver. Min age 18 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

1 Start at Cuneo in the Italian Alps.

28 Jun 09 Aug 13 Sep 27 Sep

Near the Col des Ares

Raid Pyrenean Coast to Coast Ride 1

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

18 Jul 15 Aug 12 Sep

Local bike hire: KTM 3500, carbon drop handlebar road bikes with triple chainset $420/€300, paid on booking

5 Ride to Briancon across the Col d'Izoard.

Local bike hire: Carbon road bike $460/€330, Aluminium road bike $350/€240

Briançon

FRANCE

Guillestre

Col de l’Izoard

Col de Vars Barcelonnette Col de la Bonette Isola 2000

ITALY Cuneo Col de la Lombarde

Throughout the trip we stay in traditional alpine 2-star hotels with private facilities. These are ideally located along the route giving the opportunity to ride door-to-door before enjoying the atmosphere of typical French towns, or even tackle additional Tour climbs at the end of each day.

2 3 4

79 76 59

FRANCE

Mauleon-Licharre

Cadeac

Daily Distance (km) 75 88

• 6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% paved roads • Hilly route with mountain passes • Group normally 6 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 18 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

SPAIN

5 Cycle over the Col de Peyresourde, Col des Ares and the Col de Portet d'Aspet before stopping in Saint-Girons for the night. ACCOMMODATION

Saint-Girons St Cyprien

Pyrene

At a Glance

4 Today we ride the mighty Hors Category Col du Tourmalet followed by the first category Col d'Aspin; overnight in Cadeac.

Toulouse

Luz-Saint-Saveur

5 6 7

MSP

3 Ride through the Basque hills before taking on the Hors category Col d'Aubisque and the Col de Soulor followed by a long descent to Arrens Marsours.

6 Climb the Col du Lautaret and Col du Galibier before descending to Saint Jean de Maurienne.

ACCOMMODATION

7 TOUGH

2 Ride over the Col du St Ignace and the Col d'Osquich before a long descent into Licharre.

25 Jul 22 Aug 19 Sep

• Optional single supplement: $380/€270

Hendaye

1 Start Hendaye.

2015

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

8 End Bourg d’Oisans.

Dates & Price Guide

4 Climb the Col de Vars en route to Guillestre.

Turin

Trip Code

3 Ride to Barcelonnette over the Col de la Bonnette.

7 Climb the Col de la Croix de Fer and the legendary Alpe d'Huez; descend to Bourg d'Oisans.

This unique cycling raid is a must-do route for any road cycling fan. It will take you on a journey over eleven of the most famous cols in the Pyrenees. We traverse the mighty peaks hugging the Spanish border as we follow a route that was made famous by riders trying to complete the distance in less than 100 hours, but on this trip you will have time to take in the stunning jagged landscape whilst still conquering great climbs like the Col du Tourmalet and the Col d'Aubisque. After taking on these rewarding climbs, the route brings us back down to the Mediterranean Sea for a celebratory swim.

• Optional single supplement: $450/€320

Col du Galibier

NEW

Activity Level

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

l‘Alpe-d’Huez

Cycle from the Atlantic to the Med l Spectacular scenery l Conquer Tour de France climbs

START

2 Ride from Cuneo to Saint Etienne de Tinee across the Col de la Lombarde.

St-Jean-deCol de la Maurienne Croix de Fer

$1810

Spain, France

Historic routes of the Tour de France l Conquer the highest col in Europe l Finish on Alpe d'Huez

Dates & Price Guide

DROP BARS • SPAIN, FRANCE

DROP BARS • ITALY, FRANCE

8 days land only

Ax-les-Thermes ANDORRA

“Simply an experience of a life time!”

We stay in good quality 2-star hotels, all with private facilities. The hotels are comfortable and ideally located in towns along the route with a good choice of restaurants serving delicious food to ensure you get a good meal and a good night sleep ready for the next day's ride.

6 Ride the Col du Port with amazing views over the Ariege Valley before climbing the Col de Chioula then descending to Ax-les-Thermes for the night. 7 We follow the river that flows through the Gorges de l’Aude all the way to the Mediterranean Sea at St Cyprien. 8 End St Cyprien.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

110 125 60

5 6 7

107 97 130

Gordon Drummond

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

Col de Peyresourde, Pyrenees

$2470

Clarence Drive to Gordon’s Bay

France

South Africa

Tour de France Special

Watch the world’s most famous cycle race l Ride the Tour climbs l Stunning mountain scenery

Activity Level

Millions of fans line the route as the peloton races through France on its annual three week tour around this spectacular country. Each year we plan a special departure combining the unique opportunity to watch the race action on a couple of days with riding the very same roads yourself. There are few other sports where you can watch your heroes live as well as emulating them on the same course a day later. Riding the challenging climbs of the Alps and Pyrenees can be a humbling experience and only afirms the impressive strength and stamina of the professionals.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

6 CHALLENGING/TOUGH

MWW

At a Glance • Usually 6 days cycling with vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads • Route will include long climbs and descents • Group normally 6 to 20, plus cycling leader/driver. Min age 18 yrs • Accommodation to be confirmed • Food to be confirmed

Itinerary

The 2015 Tour de France route will be announced in October 2014 and we will have full details of our trip on our website shortly after.

We will confirm the dates and details of our itinerary once the 2015 Tour de France route is announced in October 2014.

• Land only start and end to be confirmed

In previous years we have based ourselves in either the Alps or Pyrenees and combined watching the race live from the cols with testing ourselves on the same terrain during the week.

Local bike hire: Drop handlebar road bikes will be available for hire locally

In 2014 we watched stages 16, 17 and 18 as the drama played out on the climbs of Port de Bales, Col de Val Louon-Azet and the mighty Tourmalet.

Cape Argus Cycle Tour

TRIP HIGHLIGHT

Vicenzo Nibali’s dominance made this year’s race appear relatively straightforward, but just how challenging are the mountains of the Tour de France? This is a unique opportunity to really find out, by testing your legs on exactly the same roads as your heroes. If you are a Strava user you will also be able to compare your speed with the increasing number of pros who openly share their rides.

The world's largest cyclosportive l Cycle winelands and coast l Explore Cape Town

Activity Level

The Cape Argus is the largest individually timed cycle event in the world and is a memorable experience for all who take part. In 2014, 35,000 participants took to the 109km circular route down the Cape Peninsula from Cape Town. To make the most of our trip to South Africa we combine this challenging event with a cycle tour through the Western Cape. We start from Cape Town and take in renowned wineries, the Karoo and the spectacular Whale Route. This is a great way to see the Western Cape and also ideal preparation for the event itself.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

START

END

01 Mar

09 Mar

FLIGHT INC

LAND ONLY

CHALLENGING

MSH

At a Glance • 8 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 100% tarmac roads • Mostly relaxed rides with a few harder climbs • Group normally 5 to 14. Min age 18 yrs • 8 nights in standard hotels and guest houses • All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 2 dinners included

1 Start Cape Town; visit Cape Point and ride back to our guest house.

2015

2 Cycle to Cape Town along Chapman’s Peak Drive.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $510/€360

3 Explore the world renowned winelands near Franschhoek and Worcester.

Local bike hire: Trek 7.3 FX hybrid bikes $230/€160, paid on booking.

4 Cycle the semi-arid Little and Grand Karoo to Barrydale. 5 Ride through the hills and over the spectacular Tradouws Pass to Hermanus.

SOUTH AFRICA

For full details please contact your agent after 1 November 2014.

DROP BARS • SOUTH AFRICA

DROP BARS • FRANCE

9 days land only

Worcester

6 Cycle the Whale Route, one of the worlds most spectacular roads.

Little Karoo Barrydale

Franschhoek

“Cycled through beautiful country and experienced the colour and chaos of Le Tour on three occasions in good company. Couldn’t believe the speed of the pros.”

“This really should be on your bucket list of great events to ride in the world.”

Christopher Bailey

Stephanie Small

Cape Town

Gordon’s Bay

Swellendam

Tradouws Pass

We stay in a mixture of well located hotels and small guest houses throughout the trip. The standard of accommodation is 3-star and above, ensuring that you get a good night's sleep ready for the next day's ride.

Hermanus

Cape Point

ACCOMMODATION

cycle/drive race

7 Optional morning ride; afternoon race registration. 8 Race day, ride the Cape Argus Tour alongside 35,000 other riders. 9 End Cape Town.

Daily Distance (km)

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

1 2 3 4

25 60 70 60

5 6 7 8

60 80 30 109

Off Road This is where Exodus’ cycling story started, seeking the best but hard to find off road trails round the world. These trips celebrate the simple joy of being in the mountains: the fresh air, the freedom of the trail stretching out before you, and more than anything, not a car in sight. Whether it’s an unobtrusive cycle safari or a technical downhill singletrack, we guarantee you’ll be enjoying some of the finest bike trails anywhere in the world.

TRIP NAME

TRIP CODE ACTIVITY LEVEL PAGE

Mountain Biking in Slovenia

MVS

Mountain Biking in Croatia

MVC

Turquoise Coast Ride

MTK

Jebel Sahro Ride & Marrakech

MMS

Atlas Descent

MMA

Tanzania Cycle Safari

MYB

Cycle Namibia

MZN

Mountain Biking in Costa Rica & Nicaragua MUT

NEW

Cycling in Mongolia

MCM

Manali to Leh Ride

MIH

Main Photograph: Khairkhan Lake, Mongolia. Page 72.

from

8 days land only

$1330

from

$1620

The Julian Alps

Mali Halan Pass

Slovenia

Mountain Biking in Slovenia

Activity Level

As summer cuts a fertile pathway of green in the valleys of Slovenia, the contrast couldn't be greater in the Julian Alps. Free from snow, hulking limestone peaks dominate the horizon, inviting mountain bikers to ride a vast network of trails against this spectacular backdrop. Descending into the valleys, traditional alpine towns, including the lakeside town of Bled, offer the perfect setting for relaxation. From steep climbs and high passes to single tracks that cut down the mountain side, this trip encompasses the thrills, beauty and wonder of mountain biking in this unique country.

Trip Code

START

04 Jul 15 Aug 12 Sep

Local bike hire: Trek X-Caliber mountain bikes with front suspension $180/€130, paid on booking.

vank

Vrsic Pass

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with luggage transfer • 85% off road on a mix of gravel and singletrack • Exhilarating rocky tracks • Steep climbs to mountain passes • Group normally 3 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

Julian Alps Lake Bohinj Bohinj

SLOVENIA

ACCOMMODATION

Our accommodation for the week is a mixture of small family owned pensions and slightly larger alpine style hotels. Three properties have spa facilities and two have large pools with beautiful views over the mountains, perfect places to relax after a long day in the saddle. The pension accommodation offers cosy rooms and wonderful home cooked Slovenian cuisine.

Mountain Biking in Croatia 7

Croatia is understandably famous for its islands and beaches, but by comparison its mountains are less well known. Our route starts in the spectacular karst environment of the Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before heading into the Velebit National Park where the wide trails are perfect for mountain biking. Our point-to-point route has plenty of challenging climbs and excellent descents, but isn't overly technical. We spend a remote night in the Zavizan mountain hut to enjoy the wilderness before heading to the coast to soak up the sun and round off our trip with a ride on Pag Island.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

23 May 20 Jun 05 Sep 19 Sep

40 40

MVC

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 90% vehicle support • 75% off road, 25% tarmac • Undulating rides, with long climbs and descents • Group normally 5 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 6 nights hotels, 1 night mountain hut • All breakfasts and 7 dinners included

3 A challenging ride through Velebit N.P. with a 1100m climb to Zavizan mountain hut.

• Optional single supplement: $150/€100 Local bike hire: Wheeler Pro-10 mountain bikes with front suspension $180/€130, paid on booking

4 Spectacular route around the Velebit range; finish in Gospic. 5 Cycle an undulating route in the valley of Velebit with a long climb to the pass of Mali Halan; downhill to Posedarje.

Daily Distance (km) 66 70 78

5 6 7

6 Beautiful circular ride visiting Paklenica N.P.

110

7 Transfer to Pag, an island in the north-Dalmatian archipelago, for a fantastic final road ride.

45 50

8 End Zadar. from Zagreb Otocac Plitvice Lakes

Velebit

Adriatic Sea

6 7

4 MODERATE/CHALLENGING

2 Cycle to the entrance of Plitvice N.P.; walking tour of the unique scenery; ride to Otocac, a fortified town on an island in the Gacka River.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

2 3 4

1 Start Zagreb; transfer to Plitvice Lakes N.P.

30 May 27 Jun 12 Sep 26 Sep

8 End Tolmin

2 3 4

Activity Level

7 Ride to Tolmin and Tolminka Gorge, where there is time for an optional walk; easy cycle along the Polog Valley to the source of the Tolminka River.

Daily Distance (km)

Croatia's spectacular national parks l Beautiful Plitvice Lakes l Dalmatian Coast and Pag Island

2015

6 Climb steep tracks to the peak of Mt Stol (1100m); after taking in the views there is an exhilarating descent that winds down to Kobarid.

Lake Bled

START

5 Free day to explore Bovec or optional white-water activities on the Soca River.

Ran

Triglav

Tolmin

MVS

4 Morning climb to Vrsic Pass (1611m) with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape; memorable long descent down into the Soca Valley stopping at the source of the river along the way.

AUSTRIA

Kara

Kobarid

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

3 Ride through the beautiful Gorenjska landscape to the source of the Sava Bohinjka River; on to Kranjska Gora.

• Optional single supplement: $190/€130

Bovec

2 Cycle around Lake Bohinj; follow gravel tracks to the fairytale town of Bled.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

ITALY

1 Start Bohinj

11 Jul 22 Aug 19 Sep

Kranjska Gora

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

2015

Croatia

Spectacular mountain trails l Fairytale Lake Bled l White-water activites

Dates & Price Guide

OFF ROAD • CROATIA

OFF ROAD • SLOVENIA

8 days land only

CROATIA

ACCOMMODATION cycling transfer

Gospic PAG

Paklenica

50 40

Posedarje

Zadar

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

Hotels are simple but comfortable with en suite facilities and well located along the route. We spend one night in a mountain hut with dormitory rooms and shared facilities, the hut is in a spectacular location at the top of a 1100m climb, the views for the evening make the ride up worthwhile.

“It was a great week, with varied beautiful scenery and a great bunch of people to share it with.” Iain Sykes

from

8 days land only

$1050

from

$1430

Overlooking the Turquoise Coast above Kas

Draa Valley

Turkey

Morocco

Turquoise Coast Ride

Spectacular scenery l Varied trails l Try kayaking, diving or paragliding

Activity Level

Turkey offers a great introduction to mountain biking, with a combination of routes used to make the most of the changing landscape from the mountains down to the sea. Dry singletracks, forest fire trails and some country roads provide a challenge for novices, whilst providing a more relaxing break for the experienced rider. Every day has a downhill bias, with some steady climbs; en route we have time for picnics and to experience the famous hospitality and great food of village life.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide START

11 May 07 Sep 28 Sep

18 May 14 Sep 05 Oct

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% off road, 20% tarmac • Tracks and trails with fast descents and some climbing • Group normally 4 to 14, plus leader(s). Min age 16 yrs • 6 nights hotels, 1 night village house • All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners included

4 Ride the Lycian Way through beautiful countryside to the ancient town of Myra (entrance payable locally); transfer to Kas.

Daily Distance (km) 6 7

50 40

LYCIA

cycle/drive transfer

Gombe Elmali

Finike Kas

Myra

We use simple 2-star hotels, all providing comfortable accommodation. All are en suite and some have pools. We spend one night in a village house which is more basic, with shared facilities, but is comfortable and offers an authentic rural Turkish experience.

Jebel Sahro Ride & Marrakech 6

Activity Level

Get away from the cold, wet British winter and ride past ancient kasbahs, through deep sandstone gorges and over high mountain passes. Designed to be a little less demanding than our Atlas Descent trip, this ride is an ideal first mountain bike holiday. There is plenty of adventure to be had in this spectacular desert region, including the challenge of the mighty Bab n'Ali climb, where your reward for reaching the top of the climb is stunning views of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains. We end the week in Marrakech, one of the most amazing cities in Africa.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide START

END

21 Feb 21 Mar 17 Oct 21 Nov 19 Dec

28 Feb 28 Mar 24 Oct 28 Nov 26 Dec

27 Feb 26 Mar 22 Oct 26 Nov 10 Dec

05 Mar 02 Apr 29 Oct 03 Dec 17 Dec

MMS

At a Glance • 5 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 80% off road, 20% paved roads • Great riding on hard packed trails with the occasional rocky section • Group normally 4 to 15 plus UK leader and local drivers. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 5 dinners included

2 From the lofty Tizi-n-Tinnififft Pass, we ride past lush palmeries and isolated villages to the small town of Agdz. 3 Ride through the fertile Draa Valley passing numerous kasbahs and finish in the desert gateway town of Zagora. 4 Ride into the heart of the Jebel Sahro, a nomadic tribal land; overnight in N'kob.

Local bike hire: Trek 4900 mountain bikes $190/€135 paid on booking

5 A more challenging day crossing the Jebel Sahro, before tackling the optional climb of Bab n'Ali; transfer to Boumalne Dades.

• Optional single supplement: $200/€140

cycle/drive transfer

Mt Toubkal

3 MODERATE

1 Start Ouarzazate.

2016

Marrakech

Itinerary - Day by Day

2015

6 Follow the Seyret trail through ancient cedar forests with stunning coastal views of Kas (1500m descent).

“A wonderful trip. The guides were excellent, the group friendly and the scenery was spectacular!”

Perfect winter cycling destination l Ride through beautiful scenery l Explore Marrakech and Ait Benhaddou

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

8 End Kas. ACCOMMODATION

5 Free day in Kas for optional activities such as SCUBA diving, sea kayaking or tandem paragliding.

7 Transfer to mountain village above Kas; ride up into the cedar forest and follow trails traversing the wooded valley: some long fast descents and a few climbs.

TURKEY

AEGEAN SEA

MTK

3 Ascend to 1500m for some memorable scenery near Boldag before descending to the fishing town of Finike.

Local bike hire: Specialized Hardrock mountian bikes with suspension forks $150/€115, paid on booking

Dalaman

MODERATE

2 Short transfer to start point at Tekke village near Elmali; ride to Yazir, passing Avlan Lake and the Ordubek Plateau; overnight in village house near Gursu.

• Optional single supplement: $290/€210 • Free airport transfer for any flight

35 40 45

1 Start Gombe.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

2 3 4

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

2015

OFF ROAD • MOROCCO

OFF ROAD • TURKEY

8 days land only

tlas

Hig

Ait Benhaddou Ouarzazate

Jebel Mgoun BoumalneDades

Jeb Agdz

MOROCCO

6 Superb final ride through the beautiful Dades Valley; free time in the afternoon to visit Kasbah Ait Benhaddou.

o ahr

Bab n'Ali N'kob

Draa Valley

Zagora

Sahara Desert

7 Morning transfer to Marrakech and free time to wander the Medina and the incomparable Djemaa el Fna Square. ACCOMMODATION

We use a mixture of 2 and 4-star hotels. All accommodation is clean and comfortable with en suite facilities. You can expect a warm welcome and great hospitality throughout the trip. For a real insight into Moroccan life we spend one night in a beautifully restored kasbah.

8 End Marrakech.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

35 30

5 6

45 45

Farhad Topan

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

13 days land only

$1480

from

Rocky trails in the Anti Atlas Mountains

Tanzania

Ride the finest mountain biking trails l Varied and dramatic scenery l Local Berber hospitality

Activity Level

Over the past 10 years we've ridden every trail through the Anti Atlas Mountains in order to create the perfect cycling tour. There's everything from fast singletrack through palm trees, to ancient hairpinned muleteer's routes and remote, rocky jeep tracks. As well as the amazing trails, there is stunning scenery, fantastic food, great hotels and one of the warmest welcomes in North Africa. You will pass through areas untouched by mass tourism, but also get a chance to interact with local people and really experience the culture of some of the indigenous Berber people who populate this area.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day START

END

2015 24 Jan 07 Feb 14 Feb 28 Feb 14 Mar 21 Mar 04 Apr 11 Apr

31 Jan 14 Feb 21 Feb 07 Mar 21 Mar 28 Mar 11 Apr 18 Apr

03 Oct 10 Oct 24 Oct 07 Nov 14 Nov 28 Nov 19 Dec 26 Dec

10 Oct 17 Oct 31 Oct 14 Nov 21 Nov 05 Dec 26 Dec 02 Jan

09 Jan 06 Feb 13 Feb 20 Feb 05 Mar 12 Mar 16 Apr 01 Oct

16 Jan 13 Feb 20 Feb 27 Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 23 Apr 08 Oct

08 Oct 15 Oct 05 Nov 12 Nov 19 Nov 17 Dec 24 Dec

15 Oct 22 Oct 12 Nov 19 Nov 26 Nov 24 Dec 31 Dec

5 CHALLENGING

MMA

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 90% vehicle support • 75% off road, 25% paved roads • Mountainous terrain with 6000m of exhilarating descents • Group normally 4 to 15 plus UK leader. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners included

We stay in a good selection of well-located hotels; all are lavishly decorated in a traditional Moroccan style. The view over the valley and the cascades of the Atlas Mountains from the restaurant terrace in Immouzer is a real highlight.

2 Transfer to Tafraoute in the heart of the Anti Atlas Mountains. Introductory ride through a lunar landscape, passing the famous painted Blue Rocks.

tla

A igh

Imouzer

cycle transfer

Agadir

MOROCCO

• Optional single supplement: $200/€140 • Free airport transfer for any flight

Tafraoute Tiznit

ti An

Ait Mansour Gorges

las

Tanzania Cycle Safari

3 Spectacular ride through impressive gorges and lush palmeries around Ait Mansour. A rough and rocky day with 35km descent and optional tarmac climb towards the end. 4 Circular route to Tizi Mlil Pass for an exhilarating descent to Tahala. 5 Ride down to the old walled town of Tiznit. Optional visit to silver markets and traditional Hamman. 6 Drive into the High Atlas Mountains where the landscape is very different; ride through pine forests and mountain villages of the Tiqqi Gorge to Imouzzer.

For centuries people have explored the lakes and plains of East Africa on two feet. Now we explore this incredible region on two wheels. Starting from Arusha we cycle through banana and coffee plantations before entering the Great Rift Valley and the grasslands where Masai cattle graze. After spending time at a homestead we swap our bikes for jeeps and go on safari in the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. The final days of mountain biking are hugely rewarding as we ride to Lake Natron and the awe-inspiring active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai, passing only Masai and the wildlife they live alongside.

Trip Code

35 70 65

5 6 7

50 35

START

MYB

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with 95% vehicle support • 90% off road on rolling dirt roads and tracks • Some sandy and more technical sections • Group normally 4 to 16 plus local leader. Min age 18 yrs • 10 nights full-service camping, 2 nights hotels • All breakfasts, 11 lunches and 12 dinners included

1 Start Arusha.

END

2 Cycle west across the Monduli mountain range, dropping down to Mezerani.

2015 08 Feb 14 Jun 23 Aug

20 Feb 26 Jun 04 Sep

04 Oct 08 Nov 27 Dec 2016

16 Oct 20 Nov 08 Jan

07 Feb 12 Jun 28 Aug

19 Feb 24 Jun 09 Sep

02 Oct 27 Nov 25 Dec

14 Oct 09 Dec 06 Jan

3 Cycle towards the Rift Valley and Selelai. 4 Rift Valley Wall hike; visit Masai homestead. 5 Cycle to Mto Wa Mbu.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

6 Ngorongoro Crater game drive; camp on crater rim.

• Optional single supplement: $670/€480

7 Full day in the Serengeti, enjoying the wildlife.

Local bike hire: Trek 6000 mountain bikes $260//€180 or full suspension mountain bikes $320/€220, paid on booking

8 Full day wildlife viewing; camp at Lobo.

Lobo

Wasso

Serengeti Plains Seronera

9 Cycle down the eastern edge of the park through Masai villages. 10 Spectacular ride down to Lake Natron and Ol Doinyo Lengai.

KENYA

11 Free day for relaxation.

Lake Natron

cycle/drive

P Premium F departure

12 Transfer to Arusha. FULL-SERVICE CAMPING

Ol Doinyo Lengai

Ngorongoro Crater

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

TANZANIA

Oldupai Gorge

Daily Distance (km)

Activity Level

8 End Agadir.

2 3 4

Unsurpassable wildlife parks l Cycle amongst the Masai l Camp under the stars

START

7 The ultimate off road finale, through remote villages down to the Atlantic Ocean for a swim; drive to Agadir. Sahara Desert

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Agadir.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

Local bike hire: Genesis Mantle 30 mountain bikes with front suspension and 29" wheels, $190/€135 paid on booking

ACCOMMODATION

2016

Vall e

Rift

Atlas Descent

END

$3800

The African Rift Valley

Morocco

START

OFF ROAD • TANZANIA

OFF ROAD • MOROCCO

8 days land only

Mto Wa Mbu

Lake Manyara

P Fdeparture P Solo

Arusha

F Family departure

Camping enables us to sleep in some spectacular, remote locations; all the duties are performed by our camp staff so there is no need to lift a finger. We use a mixture of 3-man dome style and some more traditional 'A' style tents from South Africa. Mess tents, toilet and shower tents are available, provided water supplies are sufficient.

13 Free day in Arusha to explore the city; end Arusha

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

50 70 25

5 9 10

50 45 70

from

11 days land only

$3040

from

Crossing the Tropic of Capricorn

Costa Rica, Nicaragua

Cycle Namibia

Magnificent diverse landscapes l The world's highest sand dunes l Wildlife of Etosha National Park

Activity Level

Namibia is a country with huge open spaces and endless skies. Sand dunes turn into granite hills and rocky outcrops with ancient paintings give way to vast plains where ’the big five’ roam. Travelling on two wheels is one of the best ways to experience the varied landscape of this desert nation. Discover the country's highlights on two wheels and go on safari in Etosha National Park. Combining the sense of freedom of a bike with an overland truck to cover large distances, this trip mixes Namibia's breathtaking scenery with its fantastic game viewing opportunities.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

01 Mar 05 Apr 14 Jun 11 Oct 08 Nov 20 Dec 28 Feb 20 Mar 12 Jun 09 Oct 06 Nov 18 Dec

MZN

At a Glance • 9 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 65% off road with a mixture of tarmac and gravel roads • Some gentle hills but nothing technical • Group normally 4 to 12 plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 8 nights full-service camping, 4 nights hotels/lodges • All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 5 dinners included

4 Climb Dune 45 and cycle back to Sesriem past giant sand dunes. 5 Morning cycle through Namib-Naukluft Desert; transfer to Walvis Bay; transfer to Swakopmund. 6 Free day to enjoy optional activities such as quad-biking, sandboarding and dolphin-watching.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $380/€280 Local bike hire: Scott mountain bikes with front suspension $270/€190, paid on booking Etosha N.P.

NAMIBIA Khorixas Brandberg

Spitzkoppe

Tsumeb Otjiwarongwe Waterberg Plateau

Windhoek

Swakopmund NamibNaukluft N.P. Sossusvlei Sand Dunes

MODERATE

3 Cycle along gravel trails towards Solitaire, transfer to Sesriem.

11 Mar 01 Apr 24 Jun 21 Oct 18 Nov 30 Dec

South Atlantic Ocean

2 Transfer to Kupferberg Pass and cycle along farmsteads towards Gamsberg Pass and Rooisand.

13 Mar 17 Apr 26 Jun 23 Oct 20 Nov 01 Jan 2016

1 Start Windhoek.

2015

7 Skeleton Coast and Brandberg ride.

ACCOMMODATION

We use a mixture of camping, lodges and hotels on this trip; by staying in tents for 7 nights we can sleep in stunning remote locations away from the crowds and busy tourist areas. Most of the places we stay have swimming pools available and all of the hotels and lodges have en suite facilities.

Cycle/drive

8 Cycle past Herrero and Himba villages. 9 Cycle towards Outjo; transfer to Etosha N.P. for safari. 10 Search for ‘the big five’ on safari in the Etosha N.P. 11 Ride out of the N.P. towards Outjo then transfer to Otjiwarongwe; visit Cheetah Conservation Foundation. 12 Transfer and cycle to Waterberg Plateau; optional afternoon game walk. 13 To Windhoek; end.

Gamsberg Sesriem

$2440

Road bridge crossing in north west Costa Rica

Namibia

START

OFF ROAD • COSTA RICA, NICARAGUA

OFF ROAD • NAMIBIA

13 days land only

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 7

60 60 45 60 55

8 9 11 12

Mountain Biking in Costa Rica & Nicaragua 6

NEW

Ride rugged off road terrain l Volcanoes, beaches and forests l Explore colourful Granada An off road adventure through two of Central America's most scenic and beautiful countries. Starting out in the lesser-visited national parks of north western Costa Rica, we embark on an exhilarating journey into Nicaragua. Along the route we encounter incredibly varied terrain including rain forest, cloud forest, dry tropical forest, solidified lava flows, and coastal roads. Whilst the focus of the holiday is on two-wheeled adventure, there will also be ample opportunity to learn about the local wildlife and culture for which both countries are famous. Dates & Price Guide START

20 Mar 06 Nov 04 Dec

12 Jan 09 Feb 08 Mar

22 Jan 19 Feb 18 Mar

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

MUT

Trip Code At a Glance

• 9 days cycling with 60% vehicle support • 65% unpaved tracks, 35% tarmac • Quiet roads and rugged off road terrain that can be rocky and muddy • Group normally 4 to 16 plus leader, guide/mechanic, and driver. Min age 16 yrs • 10 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

1 Start Lake Arenal.

2015 10 Mar 27 Oct 24 Nov

Itinerary - Day by Day

END

Activity Level

2 Tenorio Volcano N.P. ride. 3 Miravalles Volcano ride.

2016

4 Cycle/transfer to the Pacific Coast. 5 Cross border into Nicaragua; ride to San Juan del Sur region.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

6 Cycle to Playa Gigante.

• Optional single supplement: $440/€320

7 Cycle/ferry to Lake Nicaragua and Ometepe Island.

Local bike hire: Mountain bike with front suspension $270/€190, paid on booking

8 Maderas Volcano ride. 9 Concepcion Volcano ride; transfer to Granada.

Managua Granada Masaya

San Juan del Sur

NICARAGUA

10 Masaya Volcano N.P. ride.

Lake Nicaragua

11 End Granada.

Concepcion Maderas Ometepe Island

Caribbean Sea

Miravalles cycle/drive/ferry

Pacific Ocean

Liberia

Tenorio

COSTA RICA

60 45 70 50

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

ACCOMMODATION

We spend three nights in a temperate climate in the volcanic region of Costa Rica where all hotels offer superb views. Then three nights at Pacific beach hotels, two on Ometepe Island, finishing with two nights in a fine hotel in wonderful colonial Granada. Most of the hotels have swimming pools and lush gardens.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4 5 6

40 45 84 51 45

7 8 9 10

45 58 35 29

from

17 days land only

$3040

from

$2590

Cycling the Mongolian steppe

Road to Sarchu

Mongolia

India

Cycling in Mongolia

Cycle across remote steppe l Camp in traditional ger tents l The Naadam festival in July

Activity Level

Mongolia remains a mysterious presence in the heart of Central Asia, a traditional country where visitors are still an unusual sight. Nomads wander the grasslands, setting up their white gers (tents) where the pasture is lush for their horses. On our bikes, we follow good trails across wide, open steppe, into expansive mountain scenery and through larch and pine forests. Camping wild under the wide skies adds an adventurous edge to what is certainly one of our most intrepid cycle tours.

Trip Code

Dates & Price Guide START

END

2015

04 Jul* 08 Aug 05 Sep

3 MODERATE

MCM

At a Glance • 11 days cycling (including 2 half days) with 100% vehicle support • 90% dirt tracks, 10% tarmac • Undulating forest and steppe with some climbs • Group normally 4 to 14, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs • 9 nights wild camping, 2 nights hotels, 2 nights traditional Mongolian gers, 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts, 12 lunches and 13 dinners included

Itinerary - Day by Day

18 Jul 22 Aug 19 Sep

1 Start Ulaan Baatar; Evening traditional Mongolian show.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11)

2 Morning sightseeing; overnight train to Erdenet.

• Optional single supplement: $310/€220 (including single tent) • *Naadam festival departure - see Trip Notes

3 Ride to Tal Tolgoi Well via the small township of Bugat; camp.

Local bike hire: Trek or Giant mountain bikes with front suspension $230/€160, paid on booking

4 Cycle up to Tuluugiin Pass and the craters of Mt. Uran and Mt. Togoo; camp. 5 Arhangai steppe ride to valley below Mt. Khairkhan; camp.

cycle drive train Mt Uran

Erdenet

MONGOLIA

END

FLIGHT INC

LAND ONLY

10 Jul 07 Aug

26 Jul 23 Aug

08 Jul 05 Aug

24 Jul 21 Aug

2016

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11) • Optional single supplement: $440/€320 (includes single tent) • Golden Traingle or Kashmir extension available; see Trip Notes • Free airport transfer for any flight Local bike hire: Trek 4300 mountain bikes with front suspension $230/€180, paid on booking

Ladakh

to Delhi

Hemis

Ra ng

Taglang La

INDIA Sarchu

cycle/drive transfer

15 End Ulaan Baatar.

Accommodation in this region is often basic, but hotel rooms all have en suite facilities and electricity and water supply is reliable. Camping is on a fullservice basis, meaning that our camp staff will erect and dismantle the tents, cook, and do all camp chores for you. When camping we use 2-man alpine tents along with toilet and dining tents.

Patseo Jispa Tandi Manali

Tsokar Lake Lachalung La Mori Plains

Baralacha La

Keylong Rohtang La from Delhi

4 5 6 7 8 9

54 37 72 30 25

CHALLENGING/TOUGH

MIH

At a Glance • 11 days cycling with 100% vehicle support • 50% tarmac, 50% unpaved roads (many in poor condition) • Spectacular route with long climbs and descents • Extended periods at high altitude, average 4000m • Group normally 4 to 15, plus local leader, driver and camp staff. Min age 18 yrs • 8 nights hotels, 8 nights camping • All breakfasts, 9 lunches and 8 dinners included

10 11 12 13 14

1 Start Delhi. 2 Train to Kalka; drive to Mandi. 3 Drive to Manali; free afternoon to explore. 4 Acclimatisation ride around Manali. 5 Gradually climb through alpine forest towards Marhi. 6 Cycle to Tupchiling over the Rohtang La (4060m). 7 Through the oasis town of Keylong to Jispa. 8 Continue up to Patseo through the pasture lands around Darcha.

Daily Distance (km) Khardung La Indu s Leh

Itinerary - Day by Day

ACCOMMODATION

2015

14 Drive to Ulaan Baatar, visit Mongol Els; free afternoon. 65 55

START

12 Ride the Khangai Mountain Range on good jeep tracks; descend to Orkhon River Valley. 13 Ride to Karakorum and Erdene Zuu Monastery; ger camp.

30 25

9 10 11 12 13

Dates & Price Guide

10 Morning ride in foothills of the Khangai Mountains; ger camp with hot springs. 11 Cycle across steppe to Mt. Ondor Khairkhan (2312m).

Trip Code

75 60 50 60 55

9 Half-day ride to Tsetserleg; afternoon free.

This unique region, home to traditional Tibetan Buddhism, is the scene for one of cycling's epic journeys. The ride takes us from verdant forests and flower-filled valleys to barren lunar landscapes with towering peaks and hanging glaciers. As our route weaves its way across the remote Indian Himalaya we get a taste of the rich Ladakhi culture and see monasteries majestically perched on high spurs. Running the trip in this direction entails more climbing overall, but offers the best opportunity to fully acclimatise and cycle the whole route.

7 Cycle up Khunjiin River Valley to camp beneath Mt. Chingeltei. 8 Short climb past the headwaters of the Khunjiin; descend into Tamir River Valley; camp near Great Rock of Ikh Tamir.

Activity Level

3 4 5 6 7 8

Six spectacular Himalayan passes l 2000m descent to Leh l Ancient monasteries and culture

Daily Distance (km)

Manali to Leh Ride

a ay al m Hi ge at an re R

Erdene Zuu Monastery

When on the steppe land we will mainly spend the nights camping in remote locations chosen by the guides, but on two nights we will experience life in traditional Mongolian gers. Unchanged for centuries, the ger has been the cornerstone of the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongols and is still very much used today.

Khangai Mountains

Ulaan Baataar

ACCOMMODATION

r ka ns Za

Karakorum

6 Short climb to cross Kholboogin Pass (1649m) before descending to Khairkhan Lake camp.

Ulaan Baataar

MONGOLIA

OFF ROAD • INDIA

OFF ROAD • MONGOLIA

15 days land only

85 47 72 77 78

“Joyful and endless descents. A challenging but totally amazing trip.”

9 Ride over the Baralacha La (4892m) and on to Sarchu. 10 A challenging day, via Nakli La (4800m) and Lachalung La (5150m), to Pang. 11 Across the Mori Plains to Tsokar Lake. 12 Explore the nomad settlements around the lake; ride over the Taglang La (5303m) to Rani Bagh. 13 Ride to Leh, visiting Hemis and Thikse monasteries en route. 14 Climb to Khardung La (5602m), one of the highest motorable roads in the world; exhilarating downhill ride back to Leh. 15 Time to relax and explore Leh. 16 Fly to Delhi; optional sightseeing tour. 17 End Delhi.

Keith Birrell

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

Self-Guided Going your own way on a self-guided cycle affords the most precious commodity of all: time. Set a pace which suits you, safe in the knowledge that your luggage will be transported ahead to your next hotel.

TRIP NAME

TRIP CODE ACTIVITY LEVEL PAGE

Self-Guided Introduction 76-77 Camino de Santiago Ride

LSS

Contrasts of Catalunya Cycling

LHC

Loire Gastronomic Cycling

LHG

Cycling in the Loire Valley / Loire Cycling Weekend

LSR / LSW

LHD

Cycling the Vineyards of Burgundy / LSQ / LSN Burgundy Cycling Weekend

Cycling the Vineyards & Beaches of Bordeaux

LSB

Cycle Provence & the Luberon / Provence Cycling Weekend

LSM / LSL

4/3

Dordogne Gastronomic Cycling

Three Lake Ride: Geneva, Bourget, Annecy

LSK

Puglia: Cycle the Heel of Italy

LSI

Cycling in Tuscany: The Secrets of San Gimignano

LHT

Aspects of Assisi Cycling

LHA

NEW

Cycle the Secrets of Sicily

LHS

Cycle the Adriatic: Venice to Porec

LSP

Coastal Croatia by Bike

LHZ

NEW

Cycling the Danube: Passau to Vienna

LSV

Cycling the Danube: Vienna to Budapest

LSH

Main Photograph: Mapping out a prefered route.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

Self-Guided

Flexibility From ‘long weekends’ to two week holidays our selection of Self-Guided holidays cover a variety of lengths, destinations and styles. Your trip will focus on a specific region allowing you plenty of time to really explore the destinations. The benefit of a Self-Guided itinerary is that you can see highlights ‘your way’. We have given you suggestions in the route notes, but you can plan your day around what interests you most. In addition to this, the departure dates are much more flexible. On many trips there are departures every second day, or at least once or twice a week throughout the season, just check the trip information on each page and then check availability with our sales team.

Cycling

Route notes and maps We provide you with detailed route notes and the relevant local maps to get you to your next accommodation, including accurate distances and directions. As well as taking the hassle out of route finding, the notes also give you plenty of local hints to ensure that you don’t miss the highlights of the region. From the best cafés and restaurants to the finest chateaux, we will help you get the most out of your holiday. We also provide you with contact details for our local representative, should you need any assistance or further advice during your trip.

Your luggage A luggage transfer from hotel to hotel is included, thus allowing you to enjoy cycling with only a light bag on the bike. Each morning just pack your luggage and leave it in the hotel reception by the designated time and it will be delivered to your next hotel later in the day. It really is that simple.

Adriatic fishing harbour. Page 92.

Your bike

Call

0845 863 9626 or visit www.exodus.co.uk and enter the three letter trip code

Quality hybrid or touring style bikes are available for hire locally in all destinations. Racing or electric bikes are available on request on some trips. If required, we will reserve a suitably sized bike and take payment for this at the time of your booking. All bikes are supplied with at least one pannier bag to carry the items you’ll need during your ride, as well as a pump and puncture repair kit. Some bikes also feature a speedometer and plastic map holder. You are welcome to bring your own bike from the UK, but you should be aware that arranging bike transport on Europe’s rail network can be complex.

Your accommodation As you are in the saddle during the day it is important that you get a good night sleep. Our hotels are selected for their warm and friendly welcome, their traditional charm and their

location. It is important that they fit well into the route to ease your journey and facilitate your exploration. We use a range of comfortable 2 to 4-star accommodations, including cosy family-run hotels, charming inns and farmhouses, or tourist class hotels in the larger cities. All have en suite facilities and some feature outdoor swimming pools. However, if you are looking for a little more comfort, we are now offering a range of Premium Adventures.

P Premium F Adventures The pace of these trips is a little slower, with less mileage to cover and more focus on comfort. The hotels used have been handpicked for their luxurious or unique qualities. They are often set in stunning locations, offer fabulous cuisine, and local charm in abundance. From a luxurious French chateau to a 14th Century castle in Catalunya, you are sure to enjoy a special experience. Many of the hotels have private swimming pools, some have spas, and as you will be in the same place for more than one night at a time you really can unwind and enjoy the experience. Food and wine feature among the highlights of many of these trips, there are many more meals included, some are half board, and some of the trips are specifically focused around gastronomy – here your evening meals will be a real treat! As you are paying for a premium experience you have a little more support on these trips without infringing on your selfguided experience. Transfers are available from local stations to the start hotels, and also on return at the end of your trip. This will need to be arranged on booking and is subject to timings, the local stations are detailed on each trip page and more details will be given in the Trip Notes. On arrival at your hotel you will have a short briefing with our local representative who will set you up with your bikes and give you a few local hints and tips that will help you during your trip. They will also be the person who transfers your luggage between hotels and will be on call to give you assistance should you need it. There is also an emergency telephone service.

Families Self-guided cycling holidays are the perfect option for families looking for an active holiday with a bit more freedom and flexibility. As there is no group and no leader the pace you cycle at and the places you stop can suit you and your family. If you have younger children there are trailers available in some destinations and child bikes to suit the older ones, please see the trip notes for more information. The routes are on quiet country lanes and cycle tracks, so ideal for children and following the route notes together as a family can be a fun way for children to try map reading. Alternatively, if you are a family of strong cyclists and really want to make the most of the open road then you can adapt the routes to suit you.

Self-Guided

Cycling

Adriatic fishing harbour. Page 92.

Your bike

Call

0845 863 9626 or visit www.exodus.co.uk and enter the three letter trip code

from

7 days land only

$1425

from

Samos Monastery

Spain

Camino de Santiago Ride

Ride the famous pilgrimage route l Rich history and culture l Santiago de Compostela

Activity Level

With its well marked route and rural setting, this historical pilgrimage route lends itself perfectly to self-guided cycling. We have chosen the section from Astorga to Santiago de Compostela, which offers interesting and diverse riding from the mountains through to open plains. With the freedom of independent cycling you can spend time in the places that most interest you and soak up the atmosphere of the historical villages. The ride ends in Santiago de Compostela with time to explore the city and reflect on your memorable journey.

Trip Code

1 Start Astorga. 2 Cycle towards the mountains of Leon via the Iron Cross (1510m) and on to Molinaseca.

3 MODERATE

LSS

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with luggage transfers • 100% on quiet tarmac roads • Mainly undulating riding with some more challenging sections • Self-guided holiday. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

4 Cycle to Samos to see one of the most beautiful monasteries in Spain, then on to Sarria.

PREMIUM

Activity Level

This beautiful but gentle route is perfect for a first time cycling holiday. The rides take you through olive groves and peach orchards to sun-drenched villages and picture-postcard fishing ports and pretty bays. The self-guided itinerary and short distances allow you to take everything at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to soak up the sun on the undeveloped Catalan Coast. Your days will end in luxury with our specially selected hotels, including a restored 14th Century castle.

Trip Code

5 6 7 19

4 Ride to mediaeval Torroella de Montgri; head inland to Castell d'Emporda.

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen small, family run hotels located on or very near the Camino itself so that you don´t have to travel further each day to reach the hotel. You will be able to store the bikes safely at the hotel and enjoy a good night rest and renew your energies with typical dishes of each area every evening.

Santiago de Compostela

SPAIN

Oviedo

Palas de Rei Sarria

O‘Cebreiro

Molinaseca

CASTILLE

Leon

Astorga

“A fantastic cycling holiday in the hidden Costa Brava, hardly any traffic or other people, with superb hotels and delicious meals.” Carolyn Kendrick

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

At a Glance • 5 days cycling (including 2 optional rides) with luggage transfers • 70% tarmac, 30% dirt tracks and coastal paths • Gentle terrain throughout • Self-guided holiday. Min age 8 yrs • 6 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 4 dinners included

• Starts every second day from 03 Apr to 20 Oct 2015 (except 05 - 23 Aug) • Land only prices from $1875 • Child price from $1425 (age 2 -12 on date of departure) • Compulsory single supplement $535

3 Free day to relax on the beach, or optional ride to Begur.

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes, included in the price.

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

7 End Calella de Palafrugell.

GALICIA

LHC

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

6 Ride to the walled village of Ullastret; continue to market town of Palafrugell for lunch then return to Calella de Palafrugell for your final night.

47 48

LEISURELY

Dates & Price Guide

5 Free day to laze by the pool or take an optional ride to Corca, Monells and Bisbal.

49 58 44

Beautiful countryside l Sandy beaches l Luxury 14th Century hotel

2 Ride to the lovely village of Pals; continue through Palau Sator and Fontanilles; loop back towards the coast at Platja de Pals.

8 End Santiago de Compostela.

1 Start Calella de Palafrugell.

2 3 4

7 After a short ride into Santiago de Compostela you will reach the famous cathedral; free time to explore.

Contrasts of Catalunya Cycling

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

Daily Distance (km)

6 An undulating ride through the Galician countryside and a chance to try octopus in Melide. Ride ends in Rua.

Dates & Price Guide

Local bike hire: 21 speed Orbea Ravel hybrid bikes $150, paid on booking.

5 Cycle through small rural communities to reach Palas de Rei.

Itinerary - Day by Day

• Start any Sunday from 01 Apr to 28 Oct 2015 • Any other start day available on request, please check with our sales team • All dates $1425 • Compulsory single supplement $300

3 Pedal fertile valleys and vineyards up to O'Cebreiro to admire its amazing views.

$1875

Hilltop town of Begur

Spain

Itinerary - Day by Day

SELF-GUIDED • SPAIN

8 days land only

ACCOMMODATION

All hotels have been specially selected for their warm welcome, location and regional cuisine. We use 3 and 4-star hotels, all with en suite facilities and swimming pools. A real highlight is the Castell d'Emporda, a restored castle with individually decorated rooms and wonderful food. Your included evening meals will all be taken in the hotels, which pride themselves on their regional cuisine.

24 OPTIONAL RIDE 34

5 6

OPTIONAL RIDE 35

Torroella de Montgri Fontanilles Castell d'Emporda

SPAIN

CATALUNYA

Barcelona

Platja de Pals Calella de Palafrugell

Mediterranean Sea

$2100

from

5 days land only

$1480

from

Chateau de Chenonceaux

Chateau near the River Cher

France PREMIUM

Visit fine chateaux l Delicious food and wine l Ideal for first timers or families This is an incredibly relaxed self-guided itinerary, ideal for those who enjoy their food, wine and culture as much as their cycling. The distances are short, with optional cycling days so you have plenty of time to explore the chateaux, enjoy lazy lunches or stop at a vineyard. If this isn't enough to tempt you, the rides venture through stunning scenery along the pretty river banks that meander through the countryside. To top it off our hotels are superb and your evening meals will be a highlight! Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Chissay.

Activity Level

LEISURELY

LHG

Trip Code At a Glance

• 5 days cycling (including 2 optional rides) with luggage transfers • 85% quiet tarmac roads, 15% cycle paths and tracks • The terrain is mainly flat • Self-guided holiday. Min age 2 yrs • 6 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 6 dinners included

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

Daily Distance (km)

5 Free day to visit the chateau at Cheverny. Alternatively, cycle to Chateau de Chambord.

2 3 4

6 Cycle via Fougeres-sur-Bievre and along the Cher River to Montrichard; then ride onto Chateau de Chissay for a wellearned dip in the pool!

27 OPTIONAL RIDE

Magnificent chateaux l Quiet cycle routes

OPTIONAL RIDE 31

Loire Cycling Weekend

Relaxed independent cycling l All the highlights in only five days

The Loire Valley is an ideal place to enjoy a gentle self-guided cycling holiday. Ornate chateaux dot the countryside and provide regular interludes to the cycling. Riding distances are short so you can take time exploring each one. The picturesque countryside offers the perfect setting for idyllic picnics adding to the relaxed freedom of this trip. Each evening we stay in friendly, family run hotels and you can round off your day with some of the best food and wine France has to offer.

Itinerary - Day by Day

Activity Level

1 Start Chisseaux.

LEISURELY

LSR

Trip Code At a Glance

5 Visit Chaumont Chateau this morning if you didn't go yesterday; cycle on to Cour Cheverny.

• 5 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with luggage transfers • 80% quiet tarmac, 20% cycle tracks • Gentle undulating cycling • Self-guided holiday. Min age 8 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 3 dinners included

6 Free day in Cour Cheverny; optional ride to Chateau de Chambord.

Daily Distance (km) 2 4 5

7 Complete this circular itinerary back to Chisseaux, visiting the fairytale Chateau de Chenonceaux on the way back.

38 38 40

6 OPTIONAL RIDE 7 39

8 End Chisseaux.

FRANCE

ACCOMMODATION

Michael Peck

5 6

7 End Chissay.

“Very good. Flat terrain for cycling. Great Food.”

4 Relaxed ride to Chaumont through picturesque countryside; chance to visit the chateau this evening.

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes, included in the price

4 Two routes available. The shorter option goes via Limeray, alternatively cycle to Autreche; both then converge and go to Chaumont; finish in Chitenay.

Cycling in the Loire Valley

3 Free day to explore Amboise.

• Starts every second day from 11 May to 8 Oct 2015 • Land only prices from $2100 • Child price $1260 (age 2 -12 on date of departure) • Compulsory single supplement $435

3 Free day to return to Amboise; or cycle along the River Cisse to Vouvray.

2 Visit Chateau de Nitray en route to Amboise, passing through many pretty villages.

Dates & Price Guide

2 Cycle along the Cher River to Chateau de Chenonceaux; cycle on to St Ouen-les-Vignes via Amboise.

France

All hotels have been specially selected for their warm welcome, location and regional cuisine. The incredible meals are central to your experience and these will be provided at the hotels, some in stately dining rooms and others on outdoor terraces. On this trip we stay in a chateau and 3 and 4-star hotels, some with swimming pools; all with en suite facilities. You will spend 2 nights at the wonderful Chateau de Chissay, steeped in history and set in extensive parkland.

LOIRE

Autreche St-Ouen-lesVIgnes Vouvray

Tours

Che

Loi

Chaumont - sur-Loire

Amboise

Chenonceaux

Chambord

Cheverny Chitenay

Montrichard Chissay

Dates & Price Guide

ACCOMMODATION

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

We stay in 2 and 3-star family run hotels throughout. The accommodation is simple but friendly, offering a warm welcome to guests. All rooms are en suite and some hotels have swimming pools. The Loire is a region which takes great pride in it’s cuisine and locally sourced produce. Your included meals will be taken in the hotels.

• Starts every second day from 01 May to 01 Oct 2015. • All dates $1480 • Child price $740 (age 8 -12 on date of departure) • Compulsory single supplement $370 Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes $220, paid on booking. Childrens bikes available $115, please enquire on booking

Known as the 'land of kings', the Loire Valley is adorned with magnificent chateaux and divided by the great Loire and Cher rivers, creating the perfect landscape for a relaxed self-guided cycling holiday. If you only have a few days but want to get lost in a fairytale land, then this could be the perfect trip for you. The cycling is gentle and the distances short, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery, explore the chateaux and savour the fine food and wine this region is famed for. 2

Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Chisseaux. 2 Cycle to Amboise via the magnificent Chateau de Chenonceaux. 3 Spend time looking around Amboise before cycling through pretty Loire villages to Cour Cheverny. 4 Admire Cheverny Chateau, one of the best preserved private chateau in France; then return to Chisseaux. 5 End Chisseaux.

Dates & Price Guide Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

Activity Level

LEISURELY

LSW

Trip Code At a Glance

• 3 days cycling with luggage transfers • 70% quiet roads, 30% cycle tracks • Gentle undulations throughout • Self-guided holiday. Min age 8 yrs • 4 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 2 dinners included

Daily Distance (km) 2 3

• Starts every second day from 01 May to 08 Oct 2015 • All dates $990 • Child price $600 (age 8 - 12 on date of departure) • Compulsory single supplement $210

38 46

FRANCE LOIRE

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes $130, paid on booking

France

Loire Gastronomic Cycling

$990

Lo i

from

8 days land only

SELF-GUIDED • FRANCE

7 days land only

Blois Chaumont - sur-Loire Tours

Amboise Nitray Chenonceaux Chisseaux Ch er

Chambord Cour-Cheverny

LSR LSW

Map covers both LSR and LSW.

Applies to both LSR and LSW.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

8 days land only

$2375

from

5 days land only

$1425

from

$950

Beynac Castle

Vallee de l’Ouche

France

Phenomenal food l Dramatic scenery l Excellent hotels with pools

Activity Level

Cycling through the Dordogne is set apart by its dramatic scenery characterised by steep sided river valleys and ancient villages. Pedalling along the banks of the Dordogne and Vezere rivers, this self-guided route meanders down quiet lanes, through ancient woodland, enchanting villages and uncovers hidden chateaux. As an area known for exquisite cuisine, this trip is filled with gastronomic treats giving you a taste of the best local delicacies, while the hotels offer swimming pools, local charm and comfort allowing you to completely unwind at the end of each day.

Trip Code

Itinerary - Day by Day

LHD

At a Glance • 7 days cycling (including 3 optional rides) with luggage transfers • 90% tarmac, 10% cycle tracks • Gently undulating terrain throughout • Self-guided holiday. Min age 2 yrs • 8 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 8 dinners included

2 3 4 5

6 Cycle to La Roque St Christophe and the village of St Leon. End the ride in Auriac-du-Perigord. ACCOMMODATION

All hotels have been specially selected for their warm welcome, location and regional cuisine. We use 3 and 4-star hotels, including Hotel Les Glycines (pictured left). The Lombard family have lovingly restored the building to its former glory, with the addition of a cosy bar, modern bistrot and dining room. Food is an essential part of your experience and all meals will be taken in the hotels who pride themselves on their regional cuisine. All hotels have swimming pools and all rooms have en suite facilities.

6 7 8

OPTIONAL RIDE 28

OPTIONAL RIDE 48

Brive-la-Gaillarde Lascaux Salignac Sarlat

Beynac Dordogne

The rolling countryside of Burgundy is criss-crossed with cycle paths through extensive vineyards and alongside canals. Pretty villages break up the route and grand chateaux stand guard over their carefully nurtured and valuable grapes. Burgundy is one of the premier wine producing regions of the world, so if the cycling alone isn't enough to tempt you, then perhaps a glass of the finest Pinot Noir or Chardonnay is? Dijon and Beaune complete this trip with their timeless charm, impressive architecture and choice of exceptional restaurants.

This fantastic self-guided ride in Southern Burgundy is the perfect choice for those with a little less time. Beaune provides a charming start to the trip. From here the cycling is through the finest and most precious vineyards of France, with ample time to stop, admire and enjoy some of the most renowned Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the world. Your journey ends in the architecturally stunning and vibrant city of Dijon, where you can explore the markets and enjoy a coffee in one of the chic cafes.

Activity Level LEISURELY/MODERATE

Itinerary - Day by Day

LSQ

Trip Code

2 Today is free to enjoy Beaune or take an optional cycle ride.

At a Glance • 5 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with luggage transfers • 95% quiet tarmac, 5% tracks • Undulating route, but short distances • Self-Guided holiday. Min age 14 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

6 A day to relax in Dijon.

Montignac

Les Eyzies

Beautiful scenery l All the highlights in only five days

7 Leave mediaeval Dijon and pedal to Beaune via Nuits-Saint-Georges.

2 OPTIONAL RIDE 3 31 4 36

8 End Beaune.

5 7

Carlux

Fenelon Domme

FRANCE

DORDOGNE

Souillac

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

41 48

PRICE REDUCTIONS

• Start any Saturday or Wednesday from 21 Mar to 28 Oct 2015 • Other start days are available on request, please check with our sales team • All dates (except ‘Saver Dates’ - see box) $1620 • In Style upgraded accommodation supplement €340 (€430 in single room) • Compulsory single supplement $495 • Supplement for single traveller $740 (includes single room supplement)

3 Itinerary -4Day by Day5

1 Start Beaune. 2 Free day to enjoy Beaune, or take an optional ride. 3 Ride through the vineyards and pretty villages to Nuits-Saint-Georges. 4 Follow the Route Grand Crus through some of the most famous wine producing villages to Dijon. 5 End Dijon.

Dates & Price Guide Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

Daily Distance (km)

Dates & Price Guide

Auriac-du-Perigord

z Ve

Charming Dijon and Beaune l World famous vineyards

5 Follow the canal to Dijon; afternoon free to explore the city.

OPTIONAL RIDE

e er

Burgundy Cycling Weekend

4 Ride through forested uplands to the hilltop village of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois.

Daily Distance (km)

5 Free day in Les Eyzies. Optional ride through the Vezere Gorges or spend the day canoeing or kayaking.

Cycling the Vineyards of Burgundy

3 Cycle through some of Burgundy's most famous vineyards to Nolay.

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes, included in the price.

4 Two ride possibilities. Head through the rolling countryside of the Perigord Nord, or follow the Dordogne to Beynac, end the day in Les Eyzies.

1 Start Beaune.

• Starts every second day from 11 May to 24 Sep 2015 • Land only prices from $2375 • Child price from $1650 (age 2 -12 on date of departure) • Compulsory single supplement $410

3 Free day to relax in Sarlat or do an optional ride to Domme or La Roque-Gageac.

9 End Souillac.

LEISURELY/MODERATE

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

2 Two ride options. The easier goes via Chateau de Fenelon. Alternatively, ride via Carlux and Ste Nathalene to Sarlat.

8 Cycle back to Souillac via Salignac and the Manoir d'Eyrignac.

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Souillac.

7 Free day exploring Montignac, or ride to the Lascaux II caves.

• Start any Thursday and Saturday from 28 Mar to 24 Oct 2015 • All dates $950 • Compulsory single supplement $380 • Supplement for single traveller $530 (includes single room supplement) Local bike hire: 21 speed Lapierre bikes $130, paid on booking

Saver Dates We have secured local discounts on the following departure dates: 04 Apr, 02 May, 23 May, 13 Jun, 25 Jul, 28 Aug, 19 Sep and 03 Oct. Land only prices only $1425.

Local bike hire: 21 speed Lapierre touring bikes $160, paid on booking.

Group Discount Save $190 per person on bookings of four or more adults. Valid on any departure except ‘Saver Dates’.

TRIP HIGHLIGHT

Dijon is a centre of culture and gastronomy, offering the perfect end to your trip. A walking tour of the city passes many architectural highlights and some of the best cafes and restaurants in France.

7 Activity Level

LEISURELY/MODERATE

LSN

Trip Code At a Glance

• 3 days cycling (including 1 optional

ride) with luggage transfers • 100% quiet tarmac roads and cycle

paths • Gently undulating terrain, but short

distances • Self-guided holiday. Min age 14 yrs • 4 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

Daily Distance (km) 2 OPTIONAL RIDE 3 16

4 22

FRANCE

BURGUNDY

Chateauneufen-Auxois

Dijon

Nuits-SaintGeorges

Beaune Nolay

Mersault

on e

’Or

PREMIUM

te d

Dordogne Gastronomic Cycling

France

from

SELF-GUIDED • FRANCE

9 days land only

LSQ LSN optional rides

Map covers both LSQ and LSN. Applies to both LSQ and LSN.

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

$1480

from

5 days land only

$1480

from

$950

Soulac-sur-Mer

Commune of Reillane

France 1

Activity Level

LEISURELY

LSB

Trip Code

Beautiful coastal towns l Fantastic beaches l Tranquil cycling The relaxed pace of this self-guided holiday allows plenty of time to explore the Medoc vineyards, wander the streets of the pretty seaside towns and relax on the vast sandy beaches. We begin cycling from the peaceful harbour town of Pauillac through the world famous wine growing chateaux of Margaux and Lamarque. After reaching the northern tip of the peninsula at Soulac-sur-Mer, we head south through marshland, dunes, pine forests and past the largest natural lake in France before completing the loop back to Pauillac. Itinerary - Day by Day

At a Glance • 6 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with luggage transfers • 70% quiet roads and cycle paths, 30% well surfaced tracks • Relaxed riding with no significant ascents or descents • Self-guided holiday. Min age 2 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 2 dinners included

Cycle Provence & the Luberon 4

Colourful Provencal villages l Climb Mont Ventoux

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

Itinerary - Day by Day

2 Follow the Durance River to Cadenet.

4 Free day to explore Forcalquier. Alternatively, enjoy an optional ride to Saint-Etienne-les-Orgues.

Local bike hire: 21 speed Arcade hybrid bikes $160, paid on booking. Child bikes or trailer for child $125, please enquire on booking.

6 Ride a loop through the beautiful Nesque Gorges, or climb the mighty Mont Ventoux at 1912m.

5 Cycle south through pine forests and beside the Atlantic to Hourtin.

Daily Distance (km)

7 Cycle south across the Vaucluse Plateau, then west to Cavaillon.

37 58 OPTIONAL RIDE

5 6 7

54 32 34

5 Ride a gradual climb passing through Saint-Christol and on to Sault.

8 End Cavaillon.

7 Ride east, returning to Pauillac and the Gironde Estuary.

Dates & Price Guide

8 End Pauillac.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

“It was brilliant seeing different parts of this little area of France, from the beach to vineyards to the forest.” Sarah Gallagher

PRICE REDUCTIONS

Saver Dates Royan Soulac-sur-Mer Montalivetles-Bains

FRANCE

iro

Atlantic Ocean

Group Discount Save $190 per person on bookings of four or more adults. Valid on any departure except ‘Saver Dates’.

MEDOC

Hourtin-Plage

We have secured local discounts on the following departure dates: 04 Apr, 02 May, 23 May, 20 Jun, 04 Jul, 29 Aug, 19 Sep and 26 Sep. Land only prices adult $1480, child under 14 $1330.

• Start any Saturday or Thursday from 21 Mar to 24 Oct 2015 • All dates $1900 (except ‘Saver Dates’ - see box) • Compulsory single supplement $495 • Supplement for single traveller $860 (includes single room supplement) Local bike hire: 21 speed Cannondale hybrid bikes $270, paid on booking. Cannondale Synapse Carbon road bikes are also available, $310.

LSM

At a Glance

4 Free day to relax on the beach or do an optional ride to Montalivet Les Bains or to Cordouan Lighthouse.

2 3 4

Trip Code

3 Head north along the Gironde Estuary to Soulac-sur-Mer on the Atlantic Coast.

6 Circular ride to the Lac d'Hourtin-Carcans, the largest natural lake in France.

Quiet routes l Ride in the Luberon Nature Reserve

Activity Level MODERATE/CHALLENGING

1 Start Cavaillon.

• Start any Saturday, Monday or Tuesday from 17 Mar to 01 Sep and 14 Sep to 17 Oct 2015 • All dates adult $1670, child under 14 $1500 (except ‘Saver Dates’ - see box) • Compulsory single supplement $475 • Supplement for single traveller $570 (includes single room supplement)

2 Ride a circular loop through the vineyards of the Medoc.

Provence Cycling Weekend

With rolling lavender fields, hill-top villages connected by quiet country lanes and idyllic lunch spots to enjoy the views, Provence is ideally suited to selfguided cycling. It is a challenge not to fall in love with the region and you will come away feeling completely refreshed. This trip has been designed to take in both the scenic and cultural highlights in only a few days.

This route takes you along the Durance River, passing through the picturesque market towns and quaint villages of Forcalquier, Cucuron and Cavaillon under the shadow of the Luberon National Park. Amid the lush colours of the lavender fields you’ll make your way towards the majestic Mont Ventoux, with the option to take on this mighty mountain made famous by the Tour de France. The brave will be rewarded with spectacular views across the plains of Provence.

3 Ride through rolling hills and lavender fields to Forcalquier.

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Pauillac.

Itinerary 6- Day by Day 7 1 Start Cavaillon. 2 Follow the Durance river before cycling through the historic villages of Merindol and Lauris; cycle on to Cadenet. 3 Cycle through the Luberon Nature Reserve; continue on to St-Saturnin-les-Apt.

• 6 days cycling (including 2 optional rides) with luggage transfers • 100% quiet tarmac roads • Undulating terrain • Self-guided holiday. Min age 16 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 3 dinners included

Dates & Price Guide

Daily Distance (km)

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

2 48 3 48 4 OPTIONAL RIDE

5 51 6 OPTIONAL RIDE 7 52

PRICE REDUCTIONS

4 Ride through delightful villages back to Cavaillon. 5 End Cavaillon.

• Start any Thursday and Saturday from 14 Mar to 24 Oct 2015 • All dates $1025 (except ‘Saver Dates’ - see box) • Compulsory single supplement $320 • Single traveller supplement (includes single room supplement) $520

Group Discount

We use a variety of charming properties including an authentic ‘Mas’ 18th Century farmhouse. Some have swimming pools.

MODERATE

LSL

At a Glance • 3 days cycling with luggage transfers • 100% tarmac and sealed cycle paths • Undulating terrain • Self-guided holiday. Min age 16 yrs • 4 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 2 dinners included

Daily Distance (km) 2 3

FRANCE PROVENCE

Mont Ventoux

Avignon

ACCOMMODATION

Trip Code

Local bike hire: 21 speed Cannondale hybrid bikes $130, paid on booking.

Saver Dates We have secured local discounts on the following departure dates: 04 Apr, 02 May, 23 May, 27 Jun, 04 Jul, 29 Aug, 12 Sep, 26 Sep (LSM only) and 03 Oct (LSL only). Land only prices adult $1480 (LSM), or $950 (LSL).

Activity Level

Gorges de la Nesque St-Saturninles-Apt

Cavaillon

Sault

Montagne de Lure Forcalquier

Apt Luberon

Cycle the Vineyards & Beaches of Bordeaux

France

ran

France

from

8 days land only

SELF-GUIDED • FRANCE

8 days land only

Cadenet LSM LSL

Map covers both LSM and LSL.

Save $230 (LSM) or $75 (LSL) per person on bookings of four or more adults. Valid on any departure except ‘Saver Dates’.

Pauillac Lac d’HourtinCarcans

Applies to both LSM and LSL. Applies to both LSM and LSL.

LANDES

Bordeaux 84

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

from

8 days land only

$1385

from

$1330

Palais de L’Isle, Annecy

The road to Gallipoli

Switzerland, France

Three Lake Ride: Geneva, Bourget, Annecy

Italy NEW

Captivating alpine scenery l Three great lakes l Gentle independent cycling Have you always dreamed of exploring the Alps by bike, but thought it would be too hilly? Well, this trip offers the perfect solution. Linking the three main lakes of the area, Lake Geneva, Lake Bourget and Lake Annecy, this ride predominantly follows paths along the Rhone and Isere rivers. You will explore historical villages and stunning natural scenery without the stress and effort of never ending climbs. Instead you can admire the magnificent surrounding peaks while you relax en route. Your trip ends in the stunning town of Annecy, France's answer to Venice.

Activity Level

MODERATE

LSK

Trip Code At a Glance • 4 days cycling, with luggage transfers • 99% quiet tarmac roads, 1% gravel • Undulating terrain throughout • Self-guided holiday. Min age 14 yrs • 5 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 2 dinners included

Puglia: Cycle the Heel of Italy 6

Itinerary - Day by Day

Activity Level

Nestled between the Adriatic and Ionian seas lies the captivating region of Puglia, also known as the 'heel of Italy's boot'. From the UNESCO town of Matera, famous for its cave-and-stone Sassi houses, your ride will pass through the lush Itria Valley, dotted with distinctive Trulli houses and millions of ancient olive trees stretching as far as the eye can see. The remainder of the journey takes you to the Salentinian Peninsula, a favourite among Italians for its idyllic coastline, crystal clear water and the beautiful Baroque town of Lecce.

Trip Code

Itinerary - Day by Day Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Geneva.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

2 Cycle along the Rhone to the border of Switzerland; end the day in the French town of Seyssel.

• Start any Friday or Sunday from 03 Apr to 30 Oct 2015 • All dates $1385 • In Style upgraded accommodation supplement $570 • Compulsory single supplement $340

3 Ride along the banks of Lake Bourget to the spa town of Aix-les-Bains. 4 Pedal through Chambery then follow the river Isere to our destination on its banks.

Daily Distance (km) 4 5

67 58

6 End Annecy.

Andrew Ross

SWITZERLAND Lake Geneva

ACCOMMODATION

We use 2 and 3-star hotels throughout the trip. All the hotels are friendly and well located for the cycling. Some of the hotels are located just outside the towns, but accessible by bike. All have good facilities and the rooms are en suite. Your included meals will be taken in the hotel dining rooms and offer the opportunity to relax and enjoy hospitality at the end of your ride.

Geneva Seyssel

Annecy Lac d’Annecy

Lac du Bourget Chambery

Aix-lesBains

Albertville

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with luggage transfers • 50% tarmac, 50% paved cycle trails • Gentle undulations throughout • Self-guided holiday. Min age 14 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

Bike hire: 27 speed customised touring bikes $115, paid on booking

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

6 Follow the south coast of the Adriatic Sea to the ancient town of Otranto.

70 60

Matera

Katherine Beckett

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

50 55 50

Bari

8 End Lecce.

“The independence and freedom combined with the food, history and architecture - brilliant!”

5 6 7

7 Continue along the shoreline through innumerable olive groves to the Baroque city of Lecce.

FRANCE

LSI

• Start any Saturday from 28 Mar to 13 Jun and 29 Aug to 24 Oct 2015 • Starting 18 April to 13 Jun and 29 Aug to 09 Oct $1425 • All other dates $1330 • Compulsory single supplement $290

3 Cycle through the lush Valle d'Itria, past the picturesque fairy-tale trulli houses to hilltop-town of Ostuni.

5 Reach the most southerly point of Salento at Santa Maria di Leuca.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

2 Ride through the historic 'Sassi' houses of Matera before heading to the town of Alberobello.

Local bike hire: Giant CRS Aluminium AluxX hybrid bikes $150, paid on booking

2 LEISURELY/MODERATE

Dates & Price Guide

4 Train to Lecce; cycle through the countryside to Gallipoli on the Ionian Coast with its old town situated on a rocky island.

2 3

5 Cycle through Albertville and then on to the alluring alpine town of Annecy, situated on the banks of the lake.

Fantastic coastal rides l Quirky traditional accommodation l Fine food and wine

1 Start Matera.

“Known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’ Annecy was a lovely place to relax and wander.”

SELF-GUIDED • ITALY

SELF-GUIDED • SWITZERLAND, FRANCE

6 days land only

BASILICATA

ACCOMMODATION

We use comfortable hotels and guesthouses throughout the trip, including Sassi cave hotels hewn from the rock face. All rooms have en suite facilities and some feature an outdoor swimming pool.

Adriatic Sea

Alberobello Ostuni

ITALY

Brindisi

PUGLIA

Gulf of Taranto Gallipoli Ionian Sea

Lecce Otranto

Santa Maria di Leuca

from

9 days land only

$2280

from

San Gimignano

Italy PREMIUM

Beautiful rolling countryside l San Gimignano and Volterra l Stay in a 14th Century abbey This self-guided itinerary through the Tuscan hills will fill you with the warmth and sunshine of the Italian countryside. Exploring the charming towns of Volterra, Colle di Val d'Elsa and San Gimignano gives a distinctly artistic, cultural and historical edge to this trip. The cycling is simply glorious, through rolling vineyards and hilltop villages. The hotels are magnificent, from a restored 14th Century Benedictine abbey to the stunningly located Park Hotel le Fonti and its panoramic swimming pool. With six evening meals included, food will feature among the top highlights of the trip.

Activity Level

MODERATE

LHT

Trip Code At a Glance

• 6 days cycling (including 2 optional rides) with luggage transfers • 80% tarmac, 20% tracks • Undulating terrain but distances are short • Self-guided holiday. Min age 2 yrs • 8 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 6 dinners included

Aspects of Assisi Cycling 6

PREMIUM

Beautiful countryside l Visit Montefalco, Spello and Assisi l Fantastic hotels

Activity Level

The sun-drenched Umbrian countryside is an enchanting place to blend cycling with food, wine and culture. The riding is idyllic through olive groves, sunflower fields, vineyards and apricot orchards. There is plenty of time to absorb the timeless atmosphere of the hilltop villages and hamlets and uncover the cultural highlights of Spello, Montefalco and Assisi. Each evening you can unwind in our specially selected hotels and enjoy the wonderful food and wine of the region.

Trip Code

Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Spello.

LHA

At a Glance • 6 days cycling (including 2 optional rides) with luggage transfers • 90% quiet tarmac roads, 10% easy tracks • Undulating terrain but distances are kept relatively short • Self-guided holiday. Min age 2 yrs • 8 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 8 dinners included

2 Gentle ride along the Teverone Valley, via Trevi; continue through San Giacomo to Spoleto.

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Volterra.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

3 Free day to enjoy Spoleto.

2 Cycle into the Era Valley, past the pretty hamlet of Castagno to the spa town of Gambassi Terme. Ride along the Via Francigena to Pancole.

• Starts every second day from 11 May to 14 Oct 2015 • Land only prices from $2280 • Child price from $1480 (age 2 -12 on date of departure) • Compulsory single supplement $530

4 Climb up to Montefalco, for views and wine tasting; continue on to Marcellano.

• Starts every second day from 03 May to 14 Oct 2015 • Land only prices from $2200 • Child price from $1480 (age 2 -12 on date of departure) • Compulsory single supplement $220

3 Free day to relax or cycle to Certaldo, Boccaccio's birthplace.

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes, included in the price.

5 Free day to visit Bevagna, relax by the pool, or ride out to Ceralto Castle.

4 Follow the Chianti wine route to Poggibonsi; cycle past the Basilica di San Lucchese with original frescoes before reaching Colle di Val d'Elsa.

Daily Distance (km)

6 Ride through picture perfect countryside to Gualdo Cattaneo; finish the day in Torgiano.

2 3 4

5 Free day in Colle for an optional ride to Monteriggioni, or take the bus to Siena or Florence.

40 OPTIONAL RIDE 32

5 6 8

6 Cycle through Casole d'Elsa and on to San Gimignano before heading to Pescille. 7 Free day to explore San Gimignano and enjoy the hotel pool. 8 Cycle through classic Tuscan landscapes back to Volterra. 9 End Volterra.

ACCOMMODATION

We use superb 3 and 4-star hotels, including a 14th Century Benedictine abbey and the Park Hotel Le Fonti located close to the entrance of Volterra's mediaeval centre. The highlight of this hotel is the infinity pool, with it's panoramic views over the Pisan hills. All hotels have swimming pools and all rooms are en suite. Your included meals will also be taken at the hotels.

Pisa

ITALY

OPTIONAL RIDE 38 38

Florence

9 End Spello.

TUSCANY Gambassi Terme.

Volterra

Pancole Poggibonsi Colle di Val d’Elsa San Gimignano Chianti Hills

Siena

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes, included in the price.

Daily Distance (km) 2 4 5

7 Free day to visit the wine and olive oil museum at Torgiano, or ride to the panoramic town of Deruta or Bettona. 8 Cycle the 'wine and art road' to Brufa; take time to explore Assisi before riding back to Spello.

“Easy cycling in beautiful countryside, very quiet roads and excellent food.” Steven Gittens

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

LEISURELY/MODERATE

Dates & Price Guide

Itinerary - Day by Day

$2200

Basilica di San Francesco, Assisi

Italy

Cycling in Tuscany: The Secrets of San Gimignano

SELF-GUIDED • ITALY

9 days land only

36 40 OPTIONAL RIDE

6 7 8

42 OPTIONAL RIDE 45

ACCOMMODATION

All hotels have been specially selected for their warm welcome, location and regional cuisine. We use a mix of 3 and 4-star hotels, all with en suite facilities and swimming pools. Food is a big part of your experience and dinners will be provided each evening at your hotel. Amongst the hotels is the Grand Relais Laurenti in Marcellano (pictured above), a converted convent with parts of the hotel dating back to 1516. They pride themselves on their cuisine, with meat sourced from their land and homegrown olive oil.

Perugia

Brufa

Assisi Spello

Torgiano Bevagna Gualdo Cattaneo Marcellano

ITALY

UMBRIA

Montefalco

Foligno Trevi

Spoleto

from

8 days land only

$2070

from

Downhill from Erice

Italy, Slovenia, Croatia PREMIUM

NEW

Activity Level

This dramatic ride takes you from mediaeval Scopello, a tiny cobbled hamlet superbly located above the idyllic Zingaro Nature Reserve, through pristine countryside to the stunning ancient Greek city of Segesta, before returning to the sea and the salt pans and ancient windmills of Nubia. You end your tour in Marsala, renowned for its sweet dessert wine. Superb hotels are a highlight throughout; most are traditional Sicilian farmhouse (baglio) style, with rooms built around a central courtyard and each has an enticing swimming pool.

Trip Code

Itinerary - Day by Day

LEISURELY/MODERATE

LHS

At a Glance • 3 days cycling and 1 day walking, with luggage transfers • 95% tarmac, 5% dirt roads and tracks • Mixture of undulating and flat terrain, with short distances • Self-guided holiday. Min age 12 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfast and 7 dinners included

• Starts selected Saturdays from 04 Apr to 13 Jun and 29 Aug to 17 Oct 2015 • Land only prices from $2070 • Compulsory single supplement $290 • Single traveller supplement $430 (includes single room supplement)

3 Cycle to Castellamare del Golfo before heading inland and climbing to Segesta; end in the hamlet of Bruca. 4 Leave Bruca with fantastic sweeping views before heading back to the coast and a beautiful flat stretch to Nubia. 5 Free day to visit Baroque Trapani or mediaeval Erice.

7 Free day to visit Marsala, or take a boat to Favignana.

Following the northernmost tip of the Mediterranean, this ride takes you through three countries in one week. Starting in the extraordinary city of Venice, the route heads eastwards, hugging the beautiful golden beaches of the Adriatic Coast. Heading into the region of Friuli, you will pass sleepy fishing communes and the fascinating star-shaped city of Palmanova before turning south. Crossing the borders of Italy, Slovenia and Croatia, it is hard to find a more fascinating concentration of culture anywhere else along the Adriatic.

Trip Code

4 6

47 46

Zingaro Erice Scopello Trapani Nubia Favignana Segesta San Pantaleo

Marsala

ITALY SICILY

Palermo

MODERATE

LSP

At a Glance • 6 days cycling with luggage transfers • 100% tarmac • Gentle undulations throughout • Self-guided holiday. Min age 14 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts included

Dates & Price Guide Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

2 Leave Venice by bike and vaporetto towards the city of Caorle; chance to swim in the sea en route.

• Start any Saturday from 11 Apr to 18 Jul and from 22 Aug to 03 Oct 2015 • Friday starts from 29 May - 10 Jul • Starting 06 Jun to 18 Jul and 22 Aug to 12 Sep $1520 • All other dates $1425 • Compulsory single supplement $320 • Optional ferry back to Venice from Porec; please book with our sales team if required

3 Pedal north towards an area known for its lagoons and casoni fishing huts before arriving at Portogruaro.

5 Ride back towards the sea; pass the towns of Duino, Sistiana and Miramare to arrive at Trieste.

OPTIONAL WALK

Itinerary - Day by Day

Daily Distance (km) 29

Activity Level

Local bike hire: 27 speed customised hybrid bikes $115, paid on booking.

6 Cross into Slovenia; pass through Koper and Piran before reaching the spa town of Portoroz.

Daily Distance (km)

7 Cycle past the salt mines of Secovljie; cycle into Croatia and down the Istrian Coast to Porec.

2 3 4

8 End Porec; optional ferry back to Venice.

“Fantastic, independent cycling taking in three countries and too many cultural highlights to count!” Charlotte Taylor

P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

ACCOMMODATION

We use 3-star hotels throughout the trip. These are a variety of touristclass hotels in the cities and charming traditional agriturismo buildings from the region. The locations are chosen according to the routes and vary depending on availability, some are located close to the sea and others in the towns we visit. All rooms have en suite facilities.

60 42 67

Portogruaro

ITALY

70 46 55 SLOVENIA

Palmanova

Caorle

Mestre

5 6 7

o nz Iso

All hotels have been specially selected for their warm welcome, location and regional cuisine. We use a mix of 3 and 4-star hotels, all with en suite facilities and swimming pools. Your included meals will be taken at the hotels, many of which pride themselves on their locally sourced, or home grown produce. Many of the hotels are built in the 'baglio' style, which are traditional fortified farmhouses. Many are built around a central courtyard, giving them a lovely atmosphere.

Cycle three countries l Visit Venice l Ride the Istrian Peninsula

4 Cycle through the region of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia; the route then continues to Palmanova.

optional

ACCOMMODATION

Cycle the Adriatic: Venice to Porec

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes, included in the price.

2 3

6 Optional boat to Mozia, a Phoenician settlement; then coastal cycling all the way to Marsala

1 Start Mestre.

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

2 Free day to visit the Zingaro Nature Reserve, with miles of coastal tracks and perfect coves to explore.

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Scopello.

Beautiful coastline l Delicious food l Rich history and culture

8 End Marsala.

$1425

Marano Lagunare, Italy

Italy

Cycle the Secrets of Sicily

SELF-GUIDED • ITALY, SLOVENIA, CROATIA

SELF-GUIDED • ITALY

8 days land only

Trieste Portoroz

Venice Punta Sabbioni

Adriatic Sea

cycling

Duino

ISTRIA

Porec

CROATIA

from

8 days land only

$1710

from

$1140

The harbour at Fazana

Danube cycle path

Austria, Germany

Croatia

Coastal Croatia by Bike

PREMIUM

Explore the Istrian Peninsula l Discover Roman architecture l Superb swimming

Activity Level

Istria, often referred to as Croatia's Tuscany, is simply idyllic for a week-long cycling holiday. This self-guided route gives you the freedom to explore the area's treasure trove of antiquities at your own pace. The ampitheatre in Pula and the sites at Rovinj and Porec, with its UNESCO listed Basilica, give a distinctly cultural edge to this relaxed cycling itinerary. The hotels offer local charm, all close to the seafront so you can enjoy the atmosphere of the harbours and sunsets over the sea.

Trip Code

Itinerary - Day by Day 1 Start Fazana.

LEISURELY/MODERATE

LHZ

At a Glance • 6 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with luggage transfers • 60% quiet tarmac roads, 40% coastal tracks • Gentle cycling perfect for occassional cyclists • Self-guided holiday. Min age 12 yrs • 7 nights hotels • All breakfasts and 1 brunch included

5 Free day to explore Rovinj, swimming in the sea or do a short ride north.

7 Visit the UNESCO heritage Basilica of Euphrasius; follow remote coastal cycle tracks then loop back to Porec.

Discover Vienna l Peaceful cycle routes l Explore castles and palaces Follow the curves and bends of the Danube as it flows through steep-sided valleys and wide riverside woods towards beautiful Vienna. The densely wooded slopes and ravine forests help to create the setting for one of the most significant river landscapes of Central Europe. You will pass many delightful castles, ruins and abbeys whilst visiting historic towns such as Linz, Melk and Krems. The final destination of Vienna is the perfect place to explore, enjoy some great food and perhaps take in a concert.

OPTIONAL RIDE 30

CROATIA ISTRIA

Lim Fjord

7 Ride into Vienna past Greifenstein Castle; evening to explore. 8 End Vienna.

Rovinj Bale Vodnjan

Adriatic Sea

Fazana Pula

“The cycling, scenery and towns on the way exceeded our expectations.” Rod Williams

P Premium F departure

LSV

Trip Code At a Glance • 6 days cycling with luggage transfers • 75% tarmac, 25% cycle tracks • Mainly flat cycle paths with some gentle hills • Self-guided holiday. Min age 7 yrs • 7 nights inns and hotels • All breakfasts included

Local bike hire: KTM touring bikes $115, paid on booking

Daily Distance (km)

5 Ride between wooded mountains, through quiet riverside towns and past the Benedictine abbey at Melk - stunning both inside and out. 6 Pedal through the vineyards of the Wachau, past pretty villages including Weisenkirchen and Durnstein, to Krems.

Porec

• Start any Friday, Saturday or Sunday from 28 Mar to 17 Oct 2015 • Starting 28 Mar to 24 Apr and 05 Sep to 02 Oct $1330 • Starting 25 Apr to 04 Sep $1390 • Starting 03 October to 17 October $1140 • Compulsory single supplement $380

2 Free time to explore Passau; ride to the Schlogener Loop in Austria via the only Trappist monastery in Austria.

Daily Distance (km) 42

2 LEISURELY/MODERATE

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

4 Today's ride enters the province of Lower Austria; follow the river to Grein. 5 6 7

Activity Level

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Vienna.

3 Cycle along country lanes passing the castle at Ottensheim and Cistercian abbey in Wilhering en route to Linz.

ACCOMMODATION

We use 3 and 4-star hotels throughout, enjoying excellent locations and some spectacular coastal views. The Hotel Palazzo sits in a prime location on the waterfront in Porec. Here you can enjoy breakfast on the seaside terrace, easily explore the town from it's central location and relax in the pool or spa at the end of your ride. All the hotels are well located and all the rooms have en suite facilities.

Cycling the Danube: Passau to Vienna

Local bike hire: 21 speed customised hybrid bikes, included in the price.

2 20 3 20 4 38

6 Pedal inland to Lim Fjord with panoramic view point; cycle back along the coast to Porec.

Itinerary - Day by Day

• Starts every Tuesday from 05 May to 22 Sep 2015 • Land only prices from $1710 • Compulsory single supplement from $265 • No minimum group size, but airport and luggage transfer are subject to at least 2 people (in total) booked on each departure.

4 Picturesque rural riding to Bale; visit its Roman castle then on to Rovinj.

Tina James

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

3 Cycle inland to Vodnjan village brimming with architectural treats; return to Fazana.

“Friendly people, excellent cuisine, azure waters, and masses of history and culture.”

Dates & Price Guide

2 Circular warm up ride to Pula; visit the beautifully preserved Roman amphitheatre.

8 End Porec.

SELF-GUIDED • AUSTRIA, GERMANY

SELF-GUIDED • CROATIA

8 days land only

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

2 3 4

5 6 7

57 67

46 36 40

ACCOMMODATION

We use a mix of simple inns and 3 and 4-star hotels along the route. In the larger towns such as Vienna and Linz, the hotels are of standard city touristclass with economy rooms. Along the more rural parts of the trip the accommodation varies from charming inns to family run hotels. Some of these hotels are located outside the towns themselves. All rooms are en suite and some of the hotels have saunas and swimming pools. Please note that most of the hotels do not have air-conditioning.

CZECH REPUBLIC GERMANY Passau

Schlogen

Linz

Krems

Grein Melk

Vienna Da

AUSTRIA

SELF-GUIDED • AUSTRIA, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY

8 days land only from

$1050

Your

adventure begins here Notes www.exodustravels.com/loyalty-rewards

The Esztergom Basilica

Austria, Slovakia, Hungary

Cycling the Danube: Vienna to Budapest Meander along the Danube l Cycle three countries on one day l Visit three amazing capital cities This is a classic ride linking two historic cities. Our journey starts in Vienna, which requires little introduction, with its abundance of famous sites, entertainment and culture. The River Danube is our guide as we meander back and forth through woodland, farmland, avenues of walnut trees, wide flat landscapes and shady hills, towards the Danube Bend at Esztergom. The end point for the trip is the city of Budapest with time to soak up the wonderful atmosphere and enjoy the stunning architecture. Itinerary - Day by Day

4 Continue cycling away from the Danube through rural villages to the historic city of Gyor.

LSH

Trip Code At a Glance • 6 days cycling with luggage transfers • 85% tarmac, 15% tracks • Gentle hills on some days • Self-guided holiday. Min age 12 yrs • 7 nights inns and hotels • All breakfasts included

Daily Distance (km) 2 3 4

6 Cycle back to the Danube and follow it towards the Danube Bend at Esztergom.

5 6 7

63 39

60 53 70

ACCOMMODATION

Our standard accommodation comprises of simple inns, 3 and 4-star hotels. In some cases the hotels are located outside of the towns themselves, but accessible by bike. All of them are friendly, well run and the rooms are en suite. If you would prefer more comfortable accommodation in more central locations there is the option to upgrade to Category A accommodation. This is 3 and 4-star accommodation and generally more centrally located.

AUSTRIA Vienna

SLOVAKIA Bratislava

PetronellCarnuntum

Györ

HUNGARY

Danube

Esztergom Bend Tata

Budapest Danube

Local bike hire: KTM touring bikes $115, paid on booking

5 Day away from the Danube, riding to the picturesque town of Tata.

Robert Ashley

• Start any Saturday from 18 Apr to 30 Apr and 25 Sep to 03 Oct 2015 • Start any Friday, Saturday or Sunday from 01 May to 24 Sep 2015 • Starting 18 to 30 Apr and 25 Sep to 03 Oct $1050 • Starting 01 May to 28 Jun and 17 Aug to 24 Sep $1195 • Starting 29 Jun to 16 Aug $1240 • In Style upgraded accommodation supplement $190 • Compulsory single supplement $340 (upgraded hotels $725)

3 Visit Hainburg and Bratislava, then cycle on to Halaszi via Mosonmagyarovar.

“Easy cycling on generally good paths with great scenery”

Dates and prices correct at time of publication (see page 11).

2 Cycle to the Roman remains at Petronell-Carnuntum; stay in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg.

8 End Budapest.

2 LEISURELY/MODERATE

Dates & Price Guide

1 Start Vienna.

7 Ride round the Danube Bend to Szentendere; bike or boat to Budapest.

Activity Level

To book, check up-to-date prices and availability please call your agent P Premium F departure

P Fdeparture P Solo

F Family departure

CYCLING HOLIDAYS - Australian Edition 2015 -16 WHERE ADVENTURE BEGINS

Your agent

Phone: 1300 363 055 info@adventureworld.com.au www.adventureworld.com

where adventure begins

CYCLING HOLIDAYS 2015-16

where adventure begins