CLASSICO P E D A L
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Y O U R
P A S S I O N
The Experts in Bicycle Vacations Since 1989
Vedere
Mangiare
Esplorare
Pedalare
What Is Your Passion? Are your easily seduced by an incredible view? Do the gods of gelato and pasta call your name daily? Does your yearning to explore new places pull on your heartstrings every time you hear the word “travel”? Do your dreams include pedaling a quiet road with your senses fully alive? Many moons ago, I followed my childhood passion for cycling, culture and landscapes and created Ciclismo Classico with a desire to develop unique cycling experiences that inspire incurable and active wanderlusts to embrace and discover their own deepest passions. This year I have embraced another long time passion—photography—and created Travel Vision Photo Journeys that, through the photographic experience, will deeply connect you with the world’s most enchanting cultures, nature and precious landscapes. At Ciclismo Classico, the pioneers in bicycle travel since 1989, creating an active experience that sparks your passion is our sole mission. Like chefs who intuitively know, love and seek out delicious flavors to blend into a succulent dish, our Ciclismo Classico itinerary-dream-team combines an insatiable love of cycling, travel and culture with a rich imagination for creating one-of-akind, two-wheeled and photography tours. This special blend of ingredients, the “Magical Ciclismo Menu,” has earned dozens of awards and thousands of accolades and is a feast for the senses that will win a place in your heart. That is my personal guarantee. Are you ready to soar through a landscape with eyes wide open and pedal to your heart’s content? Do you long to follow your cultural curiosity through ancient villages or listen to the sweet sounds of life play a soulful tune? Is it time to simply unleash and completely satisfy your taste buds? Can’t resist stopping and taking hundreds of photos? Why wait to enjoy these sensory adventures with family and friends? You deserve to live life to its fullest, sleep like a baby and awaken excited do it all over again! After inspiring thousands of guests and designing the world’s most innovative cycling itineraries, one simple principle remains at our Ciclismo Core: life should be active, fun, delicious, educational, flowing, strengthening, energizing and deeply connected with beautiful places and their people. Whether you are pedaling a bicycle or looking through a lens, you will discover, on a Ciclismo Classico tour, that life itself is a dream waiting to happen. Come discover and ignite your passion with us in 2015. You may never be the same again. What are you waiting for? Buona Pedalata!
Lauren Hefferon Founder and Director, Ciclismo Classico
What Makes a Ciclismo Experience Magical?
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Magic Ingredient #1:
Magic Ingredient #5:
Magic Ingredient #7:
EXPERT, LOCAL GUIDES
SPELLBINDING CELEBRATIONS
ON THE SAG WAGON IN STYLE
Our renowned tour leaders aren’t just fit cyclists showing you all the sights. Most were born and raised in Italy and Europe and live there year-round. They’ll give you the inside running on their home territory and the regions you’ll visit, sharing secrets and tips that only locals are privy to. It’s what Ciclismo Classico is famous for.
There’s no other adjective to describe them. Don’t be surprised to roll into a village at the height of a Renaissance fair, community feast or religious celebration like the madcap Festa dei Ceri in Gubbio on the Bike Across Italy tour. We design many trips to coincide with them. Bring plenty of memory cards for your camcorder or point n’ shoot!
Need a breather? Hop in the Ciclismo support van, your air-conditioned deli, tool shed, cafe and hangout. Rest your wheels, crack open a box of biscotti and follow the route until you’re ready to roll on that magic pavement again. Caveat: the guides might get you singing “Volare” or some other classic Italian tune while you enjoy the ride.
Magic Ingredient #2:
Magic Ingredient #6:
FUEL, GLORIOUS FUEL
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Not the fossil kind, but glorious fuel for you! Each day, feast on gourmet spreads featuring the tasty signature specialties of the region, from homemade tortellini in Italy to crepes stuffed with goat cheese and honey in Provence. Plus, you’ll enjoy the bounty of our famous Ciclismo alfresco picnics—a real treat.
When traveling by bicycle, getting an excellent night’s sleep is right up there with gourmet carbs and fabulous scenery. From a rustic farmhouse to a five-star villa, from a medieval castle to a cute cottage, we make sure your nightly “casa” reflects the character of your destination.
“ Th e hotels were truly a great example of each village/city we visited and were very charming and comfortable.” — Chris A. Behringer, Golden Valley, MN
Magic Ingredient #3:
RAMPING UP YOUR RIDE Like true bicycle bambini, our guides have ridden—even raced—thousands of miles in their adventurous lives. In special miniclinics and lessons, they’ll share with you the fine points of shifting, braking, posture, climbing, descending, cadence and more, so that you’ll ride for maximum enjoyment and achieve your personal best.
Magic Ingredient #4:
LESSONS IN THE LOCAL LINGO You won’t be at a loss for words when a local pays you a compliment or gives you directions. Our native guides will conduct a number of efficient, structured language lessons covering important words and phrases that will earn big, welcoming smiles from the locals.
Our Exclusive Menu of Special Ingredients Magic Ingredient #8:
Magic Ingredient #9:
DOPO IL GIRO FUN: Divertirsi!
SNACK-ATTACK THOSE HILLS
That means “after your ride, have fun!” in Italian. You’ve parked your wheels, indulged in dinner, what’s next? Gelato strolls, dancing la tarantella in the piazza, spontaneous serenades and even a late-night dip in the Mediterranean are just some of the ideas our guides conjure up for that all-important nightcap. Dormire bene— another magic day awaits your willing wheels.
We make sure you keep your body fueled regularly with water, fresh fruit and high-energy snacks sourced locally when we can. Think—or rather scarf—orangeand-chocolate pane dell’orso (bear bread), piping hot pastries and va bene, you better start pedaling!
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Want to Enjoy a Slice of Heaven?
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The last mile is done and dusted. You’re ready to step out of those stiff-soled shoes, drink from a glass rather than a plastic spout and lay your weary helmet on a smooth, fat pillow. We’ve already gone ahead and placed your luggage neatly in your room. And what a room it is... Our guides carefully select and test each lodging—whether it’s a cozy inn, guest house, monastery, or medieval castle—as much for its local flavor and welcoming as its amenities and convenience.
Hotel Villa Marsili Villa Marsili is a four-star hotel, very close to the historic center of the beautiful, medieval Etruscan hill town of Cortona. The rooms are elegantly furnished with antique period pieces and Jacuzzi baths, and offer panoramic views of the valley or over the ancient townhouses. Enjoy their rich selection of Tuscan specialties for breakfast, or an aperitif on their garden terrace.
Capo Colonna The five-star Capo Colonna Hotel is for
You’ll Love Our Lodgings Hotel Sextantio The four-star Hotel Sextantio is located in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each room was a “cave house” patiently transformed into a luxurious guest room. Spending a night at the Sextantio is a dream, a travel in time, a pleasure that goes beyond its beauty. There’s a sense of peace and wonder that sets in your heart. Find peace of mind and body at their wellness center.
those who love the sea, nestled between the red granite of the Gallura, just outside the town of Santa Teresa, making this a unique spot. It features a private sandy beach, several pools and magnificent views of the crystal clear Mediterranean Sea and Capo Testa promontory, making the sunsets unforgettable.
Excelsior This luxurious five-star hotel is the place in Pesaro where you can relax and enjoy modern comforts. The sunlit rooms are elegantly furnished and perfumed with sea breezes. The Restaurant ’59 offers the most traditional local dishes, while the Bistrò location is ideal for enjoying happy hour. Enjoy the private beach, or the Spa Excelsior overlooking the Adriatic Sea, a refuge on the Riviera where you can unwind.
Ostelliere In the center of the Gavi wine district lies this lovely four-star estate. With a high regard for tradition, the estate boasts a large wine cellar dating back to its original construction, still in pristine condition. The rooms are spacious, functional and modern, decorated with authentic furniture and fascinating objects from Europe. Enjoy yoga classes, a garden with solarium, Turkish bath and two bars. ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
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What’s the Ciclismo Secret Sauce?
What inspires our guests to return year after year for their annual active vacation, birthday, wedding or other milestone moment in their life? Our guides’ passion for their work and years of expertise. In our 25 years of operation, we’ve received countless letters of adoration and appreciation from guests thanking our highly experienced and often local guides for hosting the perfect tour. Tours that create deep cultural connections with the areas you travel through, tours that take you on an insider’s adventure of Italy and beyond, tours that are led by our amazing guides… and our own Ciclismo Guiding Principles.
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Guiding Principle #1:
Guiding Principle #3:
Guiding Principle #4:
TRANQUILLO. PUTTING YOU AT EASE—IMMEDIATELY
SEMPRE SORRIDENTE. STELLAR SUPPORT, MILE AFTER MILE
CICLISTI. EXPERT COACHING TO MAKE YOU A BETTER CYCLIST
Even in a small group, feeling at ease with your travel mates is key to creating the perfect cycling adventure. Our gregarious guides break the ice between you and other travelers, no matter what corner of the world they come from. Before you know it, you’ll be talking travel memories, ancient history, wine varietals and more. With our guides as your mutual connection, you’ll forge lasting friendships and feel like you’re traveling with family.
Whether cycling alongside you or tailing you in our support van, your guide is always on the spot, making sure you stay on track, keeping your water bottles full and ensuring you have everything you need for a perfect day of bicycle travel. Mechanical problem? No problem! Our guides have the tools and experience, and our mobile bike van is never more than a crank-turn away.
No matter how athletic you are, there’s always room to get more from your ride. Our guides are expert cyclists, former competitive racers, experienced distance bicycle travelers and have plenty of other cycling credentials. Most importantly, they love sharing their cycling expertise, and offer at least three structured clinics and personalized coaching tips to make your ride safer, better and more effective.
Guiding Principle #2:
CASA MIA É CASA TUA A warm welcome into our guides’ hometowns (and, in some cases, their own homes!) is a given. But tagging along to their favorites— gelaterias that serve up Dolomite–sized servings, ancient murals that have been long tucked away in a barn—is like visiting a longlost cousin who knows all the secret spots. Connections with the local people—and their enthusiasm—is what distinguishes a Ciclismo Classico Guide from others in the field.
World’s Greatest Guides
“ Your guides were the essence of our trip experience. Their passion for biking, Italian culture, joie de vivre. Their spirit, kindness and attention to service made this experience incomparable.”
Guiding Principle #6:
RIMANI IN CONTATTO. STAY CONNECTED Our guides love to stay in touch post-tour. Via Facebook, Skype, email, blogs—even a personal visit—our guides keep you up to speed on upcoming events, giving you plenty of reasons to return to their homeland. They love hearing your thoughts on what would make your next Ciclismo tour even better. During winter, our guides often come to our Boston office and hit the road to visit their new cycling friends. If you are interested in hosting them at reunion festa in your hometown, please contact our office.
– Gabrielle, Marblehead, MA
Guiding Principle #5:
PROFESSIONALE E ATTENTO Our guides are the first to rise and the last to bed—it’s a lot of work to make sure your tour runs like a welloiled machine! Their professionalism is enhanced by their innate ability to care for each and every individual guest. They delight in showing off their homeland in a way that unforgettably ignites your passions—whatever they may be. We carefully select guides who foster these surprisingly rare dual qualities. ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
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What Trips Spark Your Passion?
“ Mille grazie for your passionate joy of Italia and willingness to share this wonderful treasure with all of us.” — Kim Sousa & Jim Pointon, Norton, MA
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BIGGEST CICLISMO FIRSTS
EPIC
Always innovating, each Ciclismo tour is an unique creation of our itinerary-crazed R&D team.
These award-winning adventures leave no switchback left unseen.
We were the leaders in launching many unique itineraries, including the following original, exclusively Ciclismo tours that no one else has!
Fly across Italy’s fabled historic heart. Conquer the heroic passes of the Dolomites. No matter what trip you choose, you’ll cycle through magnificent landscapes. Top Mile-Hungry Trips:
Original Trips: • N E W Argentina Vision and Vine • NEW W ildlife Photography in
• Sud Tyrol Roll • Mediterranean Island-Hopping
Pantanal
• Giro d’Italia
• N E W Verona to Salzburg
• Pyrenees
• Bike Across Europe • Majestic Dolomites
• Bike Across France
• Bike Across Southern Italy
SAVOR & SIP
CICLISMO CLASSICS
You are as passionate about antipasti as you are about pedaling.
The originals: still the best for fun and value!
Cycle your way to the intersection of culture and cuisine on any of our Savor & Sip tours. You’ll pedal at your pace, stopping to sample red wine and more....
Our Ciclismo Classics could not be anywhere else but in the heart of Italia. Our expertly planned tours take you to the most breathtaking places any part of the world has to offer...and beyond.
Top Foodie Trips:
Top Wine-Lovers Trips:
Classic Trips:
• La Bella Puglia
• Piedmont: Land of Barolo
• Heart of Tuscany
• Assaggio Toscana
and Truffles
• Divine Provence
• Heart of Tuscany
• To Venice, Con Gusto
• Friuli & Slovenia
• Savor Sardinia
• La Bella Sicilia
ISLANDS Get ready to be cast away and dive into a magical world surrounded by the sea.
Ciclismo Classico thinks island tours are the perfect way to experience un piccolo mondo. No other tour company has been pedaling islands as long as we have. Island-hopping Trips: • La Bella Sicilia • Swept Away in Sardinia • Fun in the Sardinian Sun • Gran Canaria • Ireland: The Dramatic West Coast • Mediterranean Island-Hopping
• Bike Across Italy • Piedmont: Land of Barolo and Truffles
• La Bella Puglia • To Venice, Con Gusto • Tuscan Fantasy • Giro d’Italia
NEW PHOTO TOURS! COMPOSE AND CREATE When landscapes, villages and markets inspire you, connect with your camera and your bike.
Are you ready to compose and click at every turn? Want to learn how to better compose the cultures and landscape? Come share your passion with others and create images that capture the essence of your precious travel experience. Photography Trips: • N E W Argentina Vision and Vine • N E W Wildlife Photography in Pantanal • N E W Secret Sardinia
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Do You Have Island Fever?
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Dreaming of traveling to someplace exotic? Seeking the perfect active combo of cycling and swimming? Our Island Escapes are the perfect way to experience un piccolo mondo. Ahhh….to spin along an island perimeter and gaze out at the blue sea is a feeling like no other! Zigzagging your way up and across the rugged interior of these tiny ancient worlds is like going back in time. No other tour company loves or has been pedaling islands for as long as we have—in fact our expert, native guides are not only from these remarkable island getaways, they will put you in touch with their family and friends that live there.
New! Ireland: The Dramatic West Coast
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New! Etna and the Sicilian Islands
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New! Secret Sardinia
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New! Savor Sardinia
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Swept Away in Sardinia
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Mediterranean Island-Hopping
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La Bella Sicilia
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Gran Canaria
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Fun in the Sardinian Sun
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“ ...the islands were exquisite — wild flowers, green fields, blue water, and spectacular mountains!”
— Patrice McDermott, Soreline, WA
We Have The Cure!
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What’s Hot in 2015? We are very excited to welcome you to our new Top Guide Tour series! Since 1989, Ciclismo Classico has been recognized as having some of the best guides in the bicycle-touring world. Many of our Ciclismo Classico Tour Guides have been leading tours for at least eight years. This new Top Guide Tour series is our way to celebrate what our multitalented, super passionate and charismatic guides love and do best: Design itineraries, share their love of cycling and deliver a world-class bicycle travel experience to every Ciclismo Classico guest. We asked several Ciclismo Classico Tour Guides to design or lead their Ciclismo Classico dream tour in 2015. Each dream tour is a blend of a spectacular destination and a special menu of ingredients that make the tour an exclusive once-in-a-lifetime experience for both the guides and our guests. By the time you read this brochure, many of these tours will be sold out. WHY? Because anyone who has been on a tour with our superstar guides knows that they put their heart and soul into every tour they lead and everything that they do. Isn’t that what life is all about, anyway? Thank you Top Guides for keeping the Ciclismo Passion alive! Don’t miss out—reserve your space on one of our 2015 Top Guide Tours!
Ireland’s Dramatic West Coast
Starring Henrick Murphy and Enrico Pizzorni
The emerald isle is a magical land—wild and rugged, but also, sweet and gentle. Nature, culture, music and history have shaped this landscape that is one hundred shades of green! Henrick and Enrico will take you on an unforgettable journey of discovery to the heart of the endearing Irish culture. The story begins in the hills of Connemara then spins amidst ancient bays and inlets across Galway Bay to the untouched Aran Island of Inishmor, with a grand finale in colorful Dingle and Killarney. ATHLETIC BEGINNER See details on page 48.
Top Guide Tours: A Ciclismo Original Bike Across Switzerland
Starring Dana Gheraty and Frank Yantorno Join everyone’s favorite Ciclismo couple—guides with us for over 14 years—on this stunning and exclusive itinerary. We will follow bike paths and silky smooth roads around lakes, along rivers, beneath waterfalls and across remarkable landscapes that abound with beauty and culture. Architectural treasures abound as we visit castles, exquisite town squares, tiny villages and historically fascinating towns.
I NTERMEDIATE See details on page 48.
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Toscana Verde
A family farm–based cycling and cultural experience. Starring Sandro Draghi and his whole family! This multitalented Ciclismo Classico guide is also the owner of Il Molinello, a family-run “farm stay” with Etruscan origins located in the captivating Crete Senese. Staying in an agriturismo is the best way to discover the real rural and green Tuscany. Il Molinello is dedicated to the Slow Food philosophy. On this unique family farm stay you’ll enjoy the most beautiful rides in the world while experiencing warm hospitality and a complete cultural immersion into the Tuscan lifestyle with Sandro, his wife Elisa, his parents Mauro and Paola, his children Emma, Guido and Bernardo and his fourlegged friends Nerone, Princess Fichina and Regina, il gatto. I NTERMEDIATE
See details on page 48.
Medieval Music Magic
Etna and the Sicilian Islands
A family multi-sport adventure. Starring Enrico Pizzorni and Paolo Nicolosi (the King of Sicily) Join Enrico Pizzorni and Paolo Nicolosi (the King of Sicily) on this exclusive Ciclismo family island adventure that begins with a hike up Mount Etna and continues with six days of exploration on the luscious Aeolian islands. We base ourselves in the lively seaside village of Lipari where we bike, hike and explore this archipelago’s ancient history, rich culture and mouthwatering cuisine (i.e., fresh pastries, granite galore, succulent seafood and homemade pasta). Short boat rides to Volcano, Salinas, Filicude and Alicude offer abundant Mediterranean swims, kayaking and a night hike to see nature’s fireworks spewing from the mouth of a live volcano! An unforgettable family experience is in store for all on Sicily’s Magical Aeolian Islands led by our Mediterranean Island masters. F AMILY See details on page 48.
Starring Isacco Colombo
On this one-of-a-kind medieval music and cycling tour, you will spin with Ciclismo maestro Isacco Colombo through Tuscany and Umbria, stopping at the beloved Italian villages of Regello, Cortona, Bevagna and Assisi where ancient music is still alive. A passionate cyclist since he was a child, Isacco is also a talented musician specializing in Medieval and Renaissance music. A graduate of the music conservatories in Piacenza, Italy and Basel, Switzerland, he performs throughout Europe and the USA collaborating with chamber ensembles, choirs, orchestras and dance and theater groups. When the spirit moves him, Isacco has also been known to pull out his instruments and play for our guests. You will be treated to his daily live performances as well as musical themed walks and lectures. The encore of this very special tour is the celebrated “Calendimaggio” feast in medieval Assisi. INTERMEDIATE See details on page 48. ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
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What’s New and Unique in 2015?
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Wildlife Photography in Pantanal
CONNECT! CREATE! CONSERVE!
Travel Vision Photo Journeys immerse, inspire and connect travelers with the worlds’ most beautiful places through the transformational magic of the photographic experience.
Brazil’s Pantanal is the largest contiguous wetland on the planet and has fantastic biodiversity, containing elements of the Amazon and Atlantic rainforests, the Brazilian Savannah and the Paraguayan Chaco. This makes the Pantanal a mecca for wildlife photographers from around the world. Few places offer so many animals of such variety, so spectacularly visible, as the Pantanal. Jaguars, the third-largest “big cat” on earth, dwell deep within the Pantanal’s floodplain forests. Here, they have remained one of the planet’s most seldom photographed large predators—until now! On this trip visit both the North and South Pantanal with Ossian Lindholm, our master photographer, and get closer to wildlife than you have ever dreamed! HIKING & RIVER BOATING See details on page 48.
Argentina Vision and Vine
Argentinian photographer Ossian Lindholm will take us on an intimate photo journey of his most beloved landscapes; he will introduce us to the soaring condors, the tasty empanadas, the fruity and potent Torrontes and take us behind the scenes while teaching us about the nature and culture of Northwest Argentina. This subtropical South America is as rich as it is beautiful with high plateaus designed by volcanoes, salt flats, dry desert valleys with multicolored mountains and cactus forests. The highest vineyards in the world thrive here and yield high-quality grapes that become full-bodied wines. HIKING See details on page 48.
Ossian Lindholm
Secret Sardinia
Come explore this diverse, spectacular and pristine coastal landscape with native Sardinian landscape and nature photographer Alessandro Carboni as he shows us the turquoise sea, stretches of white sandy beaches and miles of salmon-colored rock formations. We’ll explore the islands’ interior, another world of canyons, ancient mountains, cork trees and golden fields filled with sheep. All along the way, you’ll meet the friendly locals, learn about their traditions and savor some of the most delicious feasts in your life! Sardinia is a bit on the wild side, but that is what makes it so alluring: a land and culture that will capture your soul as you and your camera connect with its essence! BIKING & HIKING See details on page 48.
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What Flavor Rider Are You?
I’M A NEWBIE. Don’t breathe down my back tire.
You’ve ridden around the block—now it’s time to take over the world! Welcome to Bicycle Touring 101. These relatively easy trips are light on pedaling, heavy on sightseeing and a great appetizer for our full menu of tours. With no prizes for being the first and a support vehicle never too far away, you can rest and build fitness as you go. • Assaggio Toscana
• To Venice, Con Gusto
• Sud Tyrol Roll
• La Bella Puglia
I’M A HAMMERHEAD. Gimme miles. And gimme plenty of them.
You fantasize about conquering every climb, plus the extra loop. You want to cycle your heart out on the uphill and fly like an eagle on the descents with your fellow hammerheads. It does not mean you won’t stop for a plate-of-pasta lunch, glass of vino, sweeping vista or historical wonder along the way.
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• N E W Verona to Salzburg
• Bike Across Italy
• Giro d’Italia
• Gran Canaria
•B ike Across Southern Italy
• Majestic Dolomites
• Pyrenees
•F rench Alps to French Riviera
• Maratone dles Dolomites
I’M AN ITALOPHILE.
I’M RETIRED.
My dream is to experience every corner of Italy!
But not tired. I want to keep cycling strong.
You know tagliatelli from tagliolini. Your nirvana is Norcia (famous for black truffles). The best view in the world is from the Duomo of Florence. Who better to explore the country you love than with Ciclismo Classico, the pioneers in Italian bicycle travel since 1989. You say, Pronto ad andare? We say, Andiamo!
When “over the hill” means “nice passing you, young man.” You’ve got more get-up-and-go now than when you were 20, with nothing to prove other than a nose for distinguishing Sangiovese from a Sagrantino and the best formaggio to pair it with. Get your fill of culture, cuisine and—of course—cycling on these spectacular tours:
• Piedmont: Land of Barolo
• Bike Across Italy
• Swept Away in Sardinia
• Giro d’Italia
• La Bella Sicilia
• Heart of Tuscany
• N E W Bike Across Switzerland
• Croatia: Istrian Peninsula
• Piedmont: Land of Barolo
• Amalfi Stroll and Roll
• Friuli & Slovenia
• La Bella Puglia
I’M A GLOBAL GO-GETTER. I’ve cycled the world and I’m back for more.
Your rolling duffel is permanently packed at your front door and your active vacation calendar is mapped out a year in advance. You fantasize routes in faraway lands and you know that wonderful feeling of toned calves all year long. Il nostro mondo e’ il tuo mondo. These tours are the perfect way to treat your incurable travel bug. • N E W Bike Across Switzerland
• Bike Across France
• N E W Bike Across Begium
• Croatia: Istrian Peninsula
• N E W Argentina Activa
• Bike Across Europe
• N E W Verona to Salzburg
• Austria to the Czech Republic
• N E W I reland’s Dramatic West Coast
We’ve Got a Tour for Every Taste!
I’M A FAMILY FUNSTER. I want to bond with my bambini on biciclette.
A well-traveled child grows into a worldly adult. Our family tours give you the chance to cycle (or kayak, or hike…) with your outdoor progeny—long before they’re ready to vanish with the keys to the family car—to teach them a healthier way to get from place to place. Savor these priceless moments while you still can. • N E W Toscana Verde
• Fun in the Sardinian Sun
• N E W Etna and the Sicilian Islands
• Provence Pour La Famille
• Sud Tyrol Roll
• M any of our easier standard tours can be customized for families too!
• Tuscan Fantasy
I’M A CULTURE CONNOISSEUR. Cycling just makes the grappa more gratifying.
Nibble on Botticelli for breakfast, feast on Leonardo for lunch and you are still hungry for more. Break for a history lesson or stop to hear the story of an ancient olive oil press. Miles are the means to a super-enriched day of learning. Curiosity is fuel and you learn as much as you can on each ride. • N E W Medieval Music Magic • Bike Across Italy • Heart of Tuscany • Bike Across France • Divine Provence
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What’s Your Pace? E A S Y Perfect for the cycling newbie who already enjoys being active, or anyone who just wants to take it easy. Pedal at a meandering pace, stopping to take pictures, savor a leisurely lunch and explore narrow cobblestone streets. Enjoy quiet back roads along flat and rolling terrain that zigzag through vineyards, olive groves Average daily and farmland. distance: 18–35 miles.
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Our guides offer intro cycling clinics and one-on-one coaching in cadence, shifting and efficient bicycling position.
AT H L E T I C B E G I N N E R
You’re not an avid cyclist, but you are fit and love to exercise regularly. You cycle 2–3 times a week and enjoy exploring on your bike. Enjoy a flowing pace with plenty of time throughout the day to indulge in the local specialties, take in the local culture and enjoy the magnificent views. There will be an occasional hill, more rolling terrain and higher mileage than Average daily our Easy tours. distance: 35–45 miles.
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Our guides will offer cycling clinics and one-on-one coaching in cadence, positioning and the art of shifting efficiently on rolling hills.
I N T E R M E D I AT E You love being active and cycling is your preferred way. You are in good physical condition and ride whenever you can. Intermediate tours maintain a steady pace with opportunities to push yourself by tackling challenging climbs with great descents over stunning terrain. You’ll still have time to explore and enjoy the landscape and towns you’ll visit. Average daily distance: 40–50 miles.
A DVA N C E D You are an avid cyclist who trains regularly, participates in bicycling events and is eager to plan their next bicycling vacation. You enjoy a vigorous ride, challenging climbs and thrilling descents. These “Epic” and “Follow the Race” tours are spectacular and have plenty of classic climbs and are perfect for cyclists who covet long mileage with lots of hills Average and varying terrain. daily distance: 45+ miles.
Guides will be ready to take you to the next level and teach you all the tricks on how to best descend, climb, ride in a group and even how to fix a flat!
You are ready to go wheel-towheel with one of our expert professional cycling guides who has had years of training, racing and gran fondo experience.
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We’ll Match You to 18
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To Venice, Con Gusto A leisurely and gustatory journey through Italy’s Po Valley. Sure, the cycling is astonishing, but it’s the cuisine that makes this region a true journey.
Hearty ossobuco, golden risotto alla Milanese, light and fluffy panettone, Taleggio cheese and positively one-of-a-kind creations such as ravioli with amaretto and pumpkin. Every turn of this tour will introduce you to your new favorite flavor. Experience Mantova, Ferrara, Chioggia and Venezia. Revel in one of the flattest, easiest and most delicious drags in Italian cycling. Savor the fruits of the Po Valley’s fertile farmland. Discover Ferrara from an insider’s perspective. Get up close and personal with the area’s ancient castles, art and bicycle-filled streets.
EASY Trip Length: 6 days / 5 nights Total Miles: 146 miles Average Daily Distance: 29 miles Terrain: Mostly Flat Arrive/Depart: Mantova / Venice Price: $3,695 Single Supplement: $700 2015 Dates: 5/24–5/29, 6/7–6/12, 7/12–7/17, 9/13–9/18
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Almalfi Stroll & Roll
The best of both worlds, Almalfi style.
Experience Positano, Ravello, Capri, Paestum and Santa Maria di Castellabate. Bike and hike across the best of the Amalfi Coast. Savor the storied flavors of Campania: fresh vegetables, gnocchi, local wines, olive oils and locally made limoncello. Indulge each of your senses in this spectacular region.
EASY Trip Length: 9 days / 8 nights Total Miles: 70 miles Average Daily Distance: 23 miles Terrain: Mostly Flat Arrive/Depart: Positano / S. Maria del Castellatate Price: $4,695 Single Supplement: $900 2015 Dates: 4/11–4/19, 4/25–5/3, 5/16–5/24, 6/6–6/14, 9/19–9/27
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Sud Tyrol Roll A dream come true: alpine cycling without the climbs.
“ Th ank you for doing what you do. Opportunities like this ultimately make our lives richer and more meaningful.” — Joe Powers, Pleasanton, CA
Beauty and culture come together on this easy yet exceptional tour of the Alps and Dolomites. You’ll experience the stunning views from miles of Europe’s most gorgeous bike path, Ciclopista del Sole, which translates to “Bike Path of the Sun.” It’s a cyclist’s paradise and a culture connoisseur’s fantasy. Experience Glorenza, Bolzano, Trento and Lago di Garda. Revel in spectacular alpine views while breezing leisurely down winding country roads. Savor wines of all kinds as you make your way from one vineyard to another.
EASY Trip Length: 8 days / 7 nights Total Miles: 157 miles Average Daily Distance: 26 miles Terrain: Flat Bike Path Arrive/Depart: Glorenza / Riva del Garda Price: $4,595 Single Supplement: $800 2015 Dates: 6/20–6/27, 7/18–7/25, 8/8–8/15, 9/5–9/12
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La Bella Puglia
The ideal introduction to a region of Italy unlike any you’ve ever dreamed of…with a final spin to Matera.
The history-rich heel of Italy is filled with ancient Trulli structures, fortified masserie farmhouses, churches carved into caves, olive trees, herbs, cacti and—of course—vineyards. This region is responsible for producing more vino than any other region in Italy. Oenophiles rejoice! Your bike tour has arrived. Experience Lecce, Ostuni, Alberobello and Matera. Revel in a world where peaceful roads and Trulli architecture meet rich olive forests, vineyards and the sea. Savor locally grown ingredients, prepared in the unique and diverse style of the area’s most renowned local chefs. Discover UNESCO sites, rare places where centuries-old traditions and la famiglia are still alive and well.
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EASY or ATHLETIC BEGINNER Trip Length: 9 days / 8 nights (Mini trip available, see page 48.) Total Miles: 235 miles Average Daily Distance: 29 miles Terrain: Lightly Rolling with Flat Stretches Arrive/Depart: Lecce/Matera Price: $4,695
Single Supplement: $800
2015 Dates: 4/25–5/3, 5/9–5/17, 5/30–6/7, 6/6–6/14, 9/9–9/17, 9/19–9/27, 10/3–10/11, 10/17–10/25
ATHLETIC BEGINNER Trip Length: 8 days / 7 nights Total Miles: 198 miles Average Daily Distance: 29 miles Terrain: Lightly Rolling with Flat Stretches Arrive/Depart: Gorizia / Ljubljana Price: $4,595 Single Supplement: $800 2015 Dates: 5/30–6/6, 6/13–6/20, 7/25–8/1, 9/5–9/12, 10/3–10/10
Friuli & Slovenia
Italian, Slovenian and Austrian cultures collide in a land built upon its own distinct history, traditions and language.
Experience Gorizia, Bled, Bovec and Ljubljana. Revel in the lands that inspired Joyce, Hemingway, Freud and Rilke. Savor world-famous wines from the native grapes of Pinot Grigio, Ribolla Gialla, Friulano and Malvasia. Discover the Italian, Slavic and Austrian traditions that make this region so culturally unique—and plenty of local delicacies to die for.
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Assaggio Toscana A Taste of Tuscany (with a dash of Umbria), Assaggio— or “Tasting”—is exactly what you’ll experience on this introduction to the delights of central Italy.
Begin with a dollop of history, add copious amounts of gorgeous scenery, let steep in plenty of la dolce vita and season with insights from a local tour leader…and you’ve got a dish to savor for many years to come. Experience Valdarno, Arezzo, Monte San Savino and Cortona. In peaceful, off-the-beaten-path places, take pleasure in the true essence of Tuscany.
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ATHLETIC BEGINNER
Trip Length: 6 days / 5 nights Total Miles: 147 miles Average Daily Distance: 30 miles Terrain: Gently Rolling, Some Flatland Arrive/Depart: San Donato / Cortona Price: $3,495 Single Supplement: $600 2015 Dates: 5/18–5/23, 5/25–5/30, 6/8–6/13, 6/22–6/27, 7/6–7/11, 8/31–9/5, 9/14–9/19, 9/21–9/26, 10/5–10/10, 10/19–10/24
Austria & Czech Republic Fairytale landscapes will unfold before you.
Satisfy your cycling soul with all the splendor of the Central European landscape. Tiny villages, lakes, forests, farmland—and magnificently manicured bike paths that zigzag through it all. From regal Salzburg to the forests of Bohemia, explore the rich history of Prague and enjoy some of the best cycling and scenery the world has to offer. ATHLETIC BEGINNER See details on page 48.
Divine Provence
From Avignon to Saint-RĂŠmy, let the sensory pleasures of Provence revitalize you. Fields of lavender incense the air. Tables are replete with plump olives and aromatic cheeses, dishes seasoned with garlic and rich, colorful spices. Let the sun warm your skin and the air warm your soul as you cycle past beautiful fields and vineyards, quaint villages and Roman ruins. A THLETIC BEGINNER See details on page 48.
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New! Savor Sardinia A gentle dive into the Mediterranean’s most enchanting island.
Sample the many flavors of the island and discover how its unique regional cuisine varies from mainland Italy. On your journey through olive oil groves and ancient Roman settlements you’ll delight your palate with some of the delicious local dishes and regional wines. Take a break from your cycling adventure to explore the sandy beaches of Sardinia, and take a dip in the crystal-clear water of the Mediterranean Sea.
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ATHLETIC BEGINNER Trip Length: 7 days / 6 nights Total Miles: 192 miles Average Daily Distance: 32 miles Terrain: Rolling Hills and Daily Longer Climbs Arrive/Depart: Tresnuraghes / Pula Price: $3,995 Single Supplement: $700 2015 Dates: 5/23–5/31, 5/31–6/6, 6/14–6/20, 8/22–8/28, 9/27–10/3, 10/3–10/9
“ Another testimonial about the guides. Their passion for biking, Italian culture, joie de vive. Their spirit, kindness and this experience unmparable.” – Testimonial needed here, US
Swept Away in Sardinia A seaside adventure on Italy’s most exotic island.
Rocky cliffs towering over a turquoise sea. Rare animals, glanced upon through the wild undergrowth. Shepherds tending their flocks on picturesque hillsides. The one-of-a-kind culture and cuisine that has emerged from years of isolation. Prepare to be truly swept away on this bike tour of a lifetime. Experience Alghero, Bosa and Villasimius. Revel in some of the most thrilling rides of your life. Savor the frutti di mare: bottarga, cuttlefish, clams and mussels…oh my! Discover a dream world on a tour that embodies the founding principles of Ciclismo Classico—to be swept away, speechless, in Sardinia.
INTERMEDIATE Trip Length: 10 days / 9 nights Total Miles: 274 miles Average Daily Distance: 34 miles Terrain: Rolling Hills and Daily Longer Climbs Arrive/Depart: Alghero / Santa Maria Navarrese Price: $5,295 Single Supplement: $1,000 2015 Dates: 5/15–5/24, 6/12–6/21, 9/11–9/20, 10/9–10/18
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Mediterranean Island-Hopping Exotic Sardinia and Corsica are showcased in this ultimate European island getaway.
Our Mediterranean Island-Hopping adventure whisks you away to places where a cerulean sea is surrounded by staggering mountains, where Italian and French cultures collide, where the excitement of cycling rewards you with unparalleled panoramas that make each day of the trip, well, perfect. INTERMEDIATE See details on page 48.
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La Bella Sicilia Sicily’s ancient mainlands meet the legendary Aeolian Islands.
The spicy spirit of Sicily is in every breath you take on this adventure through ancient worlds and along the shores of volcanic islands. See Sicily like no other with Siciliano Paolo Nicolosi steering the course. INTERMEDIATE See details on page 48.
“ I felt as though I had been pulled back in time. So many of the villages unchanged from hundreds of years ago with the simplicity of the people and their way of life.” – Heidi & Dan Johns, Snowmass, CO
Gran Canaria
Explore a Spanish island and a year-round cycling oasis. Challenging volcanic slopes and vast deserts meet cooling forests and coastlines, all scattered with countless captivating villages to break up your ride. Gran Canaria’s warm and always-mild climate makes this island an oasis for cyclists. I NTERMEDIATE
See details on page 48.
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“ What a great job you all have done putting this trip together. From the beginning till the end I was so pleased. We had a great group, lots of laughs, worked hard, and ate well. I loved the language lesson, the wine tasting, the food, the riding, the resting...Bravo! Molto bene!” — Priscilla Butler Portland, OR
INTERMEDIATE Trip Length: 7 days / 6 nights Total Miles: 168 miles Average Daily Distance: 34 miles Terrain: Rolling, Some Climbs Arrive/Depart: Radda In Chianti / Pienza Price: $4,295 Single Supplement: $800
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2015 Dates: 5/3–5/9, 5/17–5/23, 6/14–6/20, 6/28–7/4, 7/5–7/11, 9/6–9/12, 9/20–9/26, 9/27–10/5, 10/5–10/11
The Heart of Tuscany
The quintessential Ciclismo Experience in our home away from home. For Ciclismo, Tuscany is where it all began 25 years ago. This tour is home to our favorite favorite wineries, trattorie, gelaterie, night spots and more. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Val d’Orcia, Medieval Siena and charming Pienza. Revel in the colorful, winding routes through the heart of the Chianti and Brunello wine production areas with one-of-a-kind views of vast vineyards and dense forests. Enjoy a cooking class with our local hosts. Savor the vino at one of the many wineries you’ll stumble upon while pedaling the winding routes in the heart of the Chianti Ciclismo race area. The bike is your tool to greatness!
INTERMEDIATE Trip Length: 7 days / 6 nights Total Miles: 165 miles Average Daily Distance: 33 miles Terrain: Rolling Hills and Daily Longer Climbs Arrive/Depart: Monterando di Gavi / Santo Stefano Belbo Price: $4,595 Single Supplement: $800 2015 Dates: 5/24–5/30, 6/14–6/20, 6/28–7/4, 7/12–7/18, 8/30–9/5, 9/15–9/21, 9/30–10/6, 10/10–10/16
Piedmont: Land of Barolo & Truffles A gourmand’s fantasy and a feast for the eyes.
Piedmont. With magnificent alpine views, world-class wines and fabulous cuisine, few regions of the world are as ultimately satisfying as Piedmont. Experience Gavi, Acqui Terme, Barolo and Barbaresco hills. Revel in the Langhe among vineyards and hazelnut trees on this quintessential tour for wine lovers. Pedal down paths less traveled and enjoy locally renowned restaurants. Savor Barolo with local wine experts and indulge in heaping portions of authentic risotto and plump agnolotti in Acqui Terme. Discover the art of truffle hunting. Learn from a local hunter how to seek out these rare and allegedly aphrodisiacal delicacies.
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Bike Across Italy The Italy you’ve been dreaming of, from one captivating coast to the other.
National Geographic Adventure magazine calls it our signature trip. We call it a Ciclismo Classic. Based on founder Lauren Hefferon’s first solo cycling adventure across central Italy to discover her mother’s Italian roots in Le Marche, this award-winning hill-town treasure takes you on a coastto-coast expedition you won’t want to miss. Experience Urbino, Gubbio, Assisi, Todi, Orvieto and Argentario. Bike the breathtaking beaches, majestic mountains, rolling farmland and dramatic cliffs. Discover the stalagmites and stalactites of underground Etruscan caves. Explore medieval towns and take part in traditions as old as time itself.
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INTERMEDIATE Trip Length: 11 days / 10 nights Total Miles: 350 miles Average Daily Distance: 35 miles Terrain: Rolling Hills and Daily Longer Climbs Arrive/Depart: Pesaro / Porto Ercole Price: $5,395 Single Supplement: $900 2015 Dates: 5/11-5/21, 5/24–6/3, 6/10–6/21, 6/24–7/5, 7/5–7/15, 7/22–8/2, 8/23–9/2, 9/2–9/12, 9/4–9/14, 9/20–9/30, 10/4–10/14
New! Bike Across Belgium
Bikes, beer and another award-winning itinerary! For pedaling aficionados, Belgium is a bicycling mecca to include on your bucket list. Belgium’s own cycling history is almost as long as the history of cycling itself. Our new Bike Across Belgium tour gives you access to more boutique breweries than ANY other European bicycle tour. For travelers who love to bike and beer, this is a dream tour! Selected by Outside magazine as a “Best Foodie Destination” in their 2014 Travel Awards.
INTERMEDIATE Trip Length: 9 days / 8 nights
Total Miles: 326 miles
Average Daily Distance: 44 miles Terrain: Flat Sections with Some Short, Steep Climbs (Some are Optional) Arrive/Depart: Clervaux / Bruges Price: $4,595
Single Supplement: $800
2015 Dates: 7/18–7/26, 7/26–8/3, 8/8–8/16, 8/22–8/30
“ B y the end of the week, I felt like I was saying goodbye to good friends.”
— Lori Cherry, Fresno, CA
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Bike Across France This award-winning trip has become a classic in our “Bike Across” collection.
2013 winner of the “50 Tours of a Lifetime” by National Geographic Traveler, this exclusive tour spins through four different UNESCO World Heritage sites, past the Natural Park of Causses du Quercy and Haut Languedoc, through six stunning, scenic trails and culturally rich French regions. Experience Dordogne, the region of MidiPyrenees, the wine areas of Bordeaux and Bergerac and the UNESCO sites of Saint Emillion, Vezere Valley, Albi and Carcassonne. INTERMEDIATE See details on page 48.
“ Our bicycles enabled us to watch people at work, smell the spring flowers, stop for photo-ops, eat massive amounts of incredible food and drink fabulous wines.” — Linda Wolk, Lexington, MA
Croatia: Istrian Peninsula Experience the Old World in one of Europe’s hottest new destinations.
Etched by the Adriatic Sea, the coastline of Croatia is nothing short of captivating. With forested mountains, lush vineyards and distant islands— all sprinkled with medieval castles and villages left untouched by the torrents of time—this is the perfect setting for a week-long bicycling idyll. INTERMEDIATE
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See details on page 48.
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New! Argentina Activa
Hiking, spinning and sipping in Salta, Argentina’s undiscovered adventure playground.
On this exclusive Ciclismo tour, you’ll sample the best of the stunning Salta region of Northwest Argentina, an exotic adventure playground on the edge of the Andes. On our daily excursions by bike and foot we will be immersed in a world of great anthropological, environmental, geological, archaeological and enogastronomic importance. We pedal to Cafayatte, the high-altitude wine kingdom of Argentina, hike and photograph the archeological masterpiece of Tastil, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, soar down a 20-mile descent from Salinas Grandes, an immense salt desert, see the Guachipas Cave Paintings, stroll through the indigenous village of Punamarca and enjoy a relaxing soak in the thermal waters at the fourstar Hotel Termas de Rosario de la Frontera. The variety of scenery, culture and and gastronomic experiences that this photogenic land has to offer will inspire you to return again and again!
INTERMEDIATE Trip Length: 9 days / 8 nights Total Miles: 200 miles Average Daily Distance: 20–30 miles Terrain: Rolling Hills and Daily Longer Climbs Arrive / Depart: Salta / Salta Price: $5,195 Single Supplement: $800 2015 Dates: 1/4–1/12, 1/18–1/26, 3/27–4/4
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Bike Across Southern Italy Kick into gear as you bike across the heel and toe of the Italian boot.
Surrounded by Trulli architecture, this cycling extravaganza starts in La Bella Puglia and comes to a spectacular grand finale on the rugged and stunning coastline of Calabria. Honored by Outside magazine as their Western European “Trip of the Year,“ this is the first and only two-wheeled tour to travel across Italy’s spellbinding south. Experience Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Matera, Castelmezzano, Palinuro and Cittadella del Capo. Savor the scents of oranges and eucalyptus as you cycle cliffside on the Cilento Coast. You have to ride it to believe this trip really exists!
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ADVANCED Trip Length: 12 days / 11 nights Total Miles: 430 miles Average Daily Distance: 43 miles Terrain: Exhilarating Ups and Downs Arrive/Depart: Polignano / Cittadella del Capo Price: $5,295 Single Supplement: $900 2015 Dates: 5/19–5/30, 6/16–6/27, 9/1–9/12, 10/6–10/17
Giro d’Italia The world’s most comprehensive pedaling portrait of La Bella Italia.
Snake your way through the orchards and lagoons of Ravenna, tour the Tuscan hills on two wheels and cycle past dramatic views of the Scanno gorges on this seamless, once-in-a-lifetime route across six different regions of Italy. An exclusive Ciclismo odyssey since 1995, this delightful tour is packed with storybook landscapes, zigzagging climbs, breathtaking descents and one perfect pedaling day after another. Savor the local specialties: the black truffles of Norcia, fresh-baked dense bread and the fresh-pressed olive oil in Spoleto.
ADVANCED Trip Length: 15 days / 14 nights Total Miles: 715 miles Average Daily Distance: 60 miles Terrain: Flat Start, then Undulating with Incredible Descents Arrive/Depart: Ferrara / Gaeta Price: $6,795 Single Supplement: $1,100 2015 Dates: 5/23–6/6, 7/11–7/25, 9/5–9/19
“ Th ank you for the professionalism, the extra care that each guide contributed. You can feel the passion they have for their work. Flawless!” — Monique Bensadon, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC
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“ I love biking, but Ciclismo adds so much more—the hiking, the wine tasting, the museums, a real chance to experience the people, the culture, the wine, the food....” — Susan Pallotta, Bristol, WV
Bike Across Europe
History comes to life as you cycle the Trading Route from Italy to France. Our journey starts from Genova, on a course that embraces three countries—Italy, Switzerland and France—and culminates in the beautiful town of Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region in France and also the official seat of the European Parliament. Spend 12 days exploring this part of the old continent by bicycle.
ADVANCED Trip Length: 12 days / 11 nights Total Miles: 610 miles Average Daily Distance: 61 miles Terrain: Exhilarating Ups and Downs Arrive/Depart: Arenzano / Strasbourg Price: $6,495 Single Supplement: $1,000 2015 Dates: 6/29–7/10, 8/31–9/11
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Pyrenees: Sea to Sea Legends have been made on famous passes like the Col de Tourmalet, the Col d’Aubisque and the Portet d’Aspet.
This stunning region offers a unique glimpse into a diverse landscape filled with epic mountain peaks, beautiful valleys dotted with famous cols and small rural villages, such as the Aix-les-Thermes with its thermal waters. On this bicycle tour, you’ll ride from ocean to sea, crossing from Atlantic to the Mediterranean. If you’ve dreamed of climbing some of the greatest passes in Europe, this is the place to go! It’s no wonder that the Tour de France visits many of these famous passes each year, challenging riders on hors catégorie ascents and testing their downhill skills on exhilarating descents. ADVANCED See details on page 48.
New! Verona to Salzburg Swoop and soar through epic passes in two mountainous regions.
Experience the dramatic mountain beauty and incredible towns in the Italian and Austrian Alps. Ride over exhilarating passes, climb by soaring spires and downhill to charming hamlets surrounded by meadows of wildflowers on alpine routes made famous by the world’s greatest cyclists. The Italian Dolomites and the Austrian Alps are without a doubt two of the most spectacular places in the world to ride. The Dolomites themselves have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, and remain a veritable mecca for cyclists. ADVANCED See details on page 48. ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
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Majestic Dolomites Famous alpine passes, stunning mountain views and fairytale towns.
Famous passes, enchanted villages and next-to-none mountaintop views. The world’s greatest cyclists regard the passes on this route with the utmost respect. You, too, can experience the exhilarating climbs and thrilling descents of the great Dolomites region on this tour, led by local guides who have logged more than 7,500 miles in the Dolomites. ADVANCED See details on page 48.
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French Alps to French Riviera
An experiential “peak” for the experienced rider. ADVANCED See details on page 48.
The promise of picturesque alpine peaks and valleys is enough to put even the most passionate pedaler on cloud nine. But the reality of reaching those passes—Galibier, Izoard, Alp d’Huez—is enough to put you on top of the world...literally. The reward for your uphill accomplishments is a day of unwinding on the French Riviera. Le jour parfait.
“ Th e hills...We came, we saw, we conquered!”
— Joe Astuso, New Milford, CT
New! Follow the Giro A stunning portrait of Italy awaits you on this exploration of Italy’s greatest sport event, the Giro d’Italia.
Italy’s storybook landscapes, savory cuisine and rich cultures combine in this inspiring and unforgettable trip as you follow the annual Giro d’Italia, a race that has gained prominence and popularity since its inception in 1909. Lots of emotions, memorable meals and great climbing are the ingredients of a trip that you will remember, perfectly conscious of the fact that you have earned the right to brag about it with your riding buddies. ADVANCED See details on page 48.
Maratona dles Dolomites Seven Dolomite passes with an exclusive finale: Maratona dles Dolomites.
Seven deliciously difficult—and regally rewarding—Dolomite passes, cycled over an eight-day bike tour, ending with a ride in the Maratona dles Dolomites. Celebrate the joy and challenge of cycling with one of the most important Italian “Gran Fondo”: the Maratona dles Dolomites. ADVANCED See details on page 48.
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La mia Famiglia in Bici
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Family Vacations
Filled with easy cycling, accessible culture, endless discovery and healthy and hearty meals. Ciclismo’s
Sud Tyrol
family tours let your crew of all ages and sizes bike, kayak, swim, horseback ride and cook…while staying in cozy villas and beautiful B&Bs. Bicycling bambini grow into adventurous adults. Start them early and watch young eyes— and minds—open wide.
Stunning alpine views, mouthwatering mountain cuisine and ancient history meet on this more-than-perfect family vacation. Reconnect while riding along twisting mountain rivers, indulging in Italy’s best gelato, lots of llamas on a Dolomite hike and playing hide and seek in vineyards.
A leisurely spin along lakes rivers and one of Europe’s finest bike paths.
FAMILY See details on page 48.
Fun in the Sardinian Sun
Provence Pour la Famille
Cycle. Swim. Eat. Repeat.
Sharing cycling, the scenery and sunshine—French style.
Sardinia’s blend of Italian, Roman and Phoenician heritages offers a diverse range of activities for family connection. Explore this captivating Mediterranean culture and its inviting blue sea through boating, biking, hiking and daily swims. Reinvigorate your family’s ode to fun and create unforgettable memories.
Adventures of sight, sound and scent await your family on this weeklong tour of Provence. Unpack just once, and set off in a different direction each day. Let our expert guides lead the way while you ride, recharge and reconnect with your loved ones. FAMILY See details on page 48.
FAMILY See details on page 48.
Tuscan Fantasy Where dreams of family adventures come true. This cycling and walking adventure is our #1 family vacation, developed by our director Lauren Hefferon in 1996. She and her family have been coming to this location for 16 years. Horseback riding, gardens, a treasure chest of loop rides and delicious local specialties. Time to spoil your bambini (and yourself) with an experience they’ll never forget. FAMILY See details on page 48.
“ Trip was called Tuscan Fantasy because it was like Fantasy Island—the guides made all our requests and wishes come true, except extending the tour another week!” — Bruce Caplain, North Easton, MA ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
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Our Fabulous Fleet of Bikes Bianchi, with its historical Italian brand, is a performance bicycle company characterized by product-driven technology, Italian design and a global market. Bianchi believes the frame is the heart of the bicycle, and it is constantly investing in material technology with the aim of producing the best bikes in the world. With its Reparto Corse (Racing Department), Bianchi has led the way with race-proven geometry and technology as the market has changed from steel to aluminum and then titanium, and now to the most advanced material: carbon.
Bianchi Intenso
NEW FOR 2015! CARBON BIANCHI INTENSO This years’ carbon bike comes equipped with a Shimano Ultegra 11-speed groupset and a sexy Fulcrum wheel set. The gearing is customized by us in order to allow easier pedaling while climbing. The Intenso carbon frame guarantees maximum performance with minimum stress for the riders, thanks to Bianchi’s special C2C (Coast to Coast) frame design/geometry and different material combination. $250 upgrade.
Bianchi Via Nirone 7
BIANCHI VIA NIRONE 7 We start with a Bianchi Via Nirone 7 road frame and build up each bike with Shimano 105 triple groupset. This bike is the perfect balance between comfort and performance and is your perfect travel companion on wheels. It comes outfitted with a comfy saddle and adjustable handlebar stem. HIGH-PERFORMANCE HYBRID Prefer a more upright sitting position? No problem. We offer an aluminum hybrid bike with straight handlebars that is conducive to riding at a more relaxed pace. But with 28" wheels and performance tires you won’t be left smelling the flowers. TRAVELING BY TWO OR WITH KIDS We offer tandem bikes. We offer small bikes for children: hybrids, trail-a-bikes and trailers designed to work in harmony with our main bikes.
EBIKES ANYONE? Call us and find out how we have envisioned ebikes leveling the plane for active couples with different riding abilities.
Each Ciclismo Classico bike comes equipped with:
• Ciclismo Classico water bottle • Two large water–bottle holders • Map holder on handlebars • Handlebar bag to carry your camera and other transportables • Tire pump • Odometer/speedometer cycle computer or Garmin Edge Touring GPS (extra charge)
• Combination bike lock • Card with your tour leaders’ mobile phone numbers 44
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Our expert guides will make sure your bike is perfectly dialed in to your body before you start your tour. Bicycle availability may vary when touring outside of Europe; check with your Ciclismo Classico tour consultant.
Aluminum Hybrid
What’s Included on Your Trip ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS
• Accommodations in four- or five-star hotels, charming B&Bs and family inns
• Breakfast every morning (continental or buffet) • Most dinners, except one or two on your own (depending on the tour)
• Some lunches (two or more depending on the tour) • All snacks and drinks en route • Luggage handling during the tour ONE OF OUR AWESOME BICYCLES
• Your choice of a 30-speed Bianchi road bike with aluminum frame, carbon fork and Shimano components OR a highperformance, 24-speed Ciclismo Classico–exclusive hybrid with aluminum frame (women’s hybrid also available)
• Tandems available on request
(premium models at an extra charge)
• Bianchi carbon bikes on request (at an extra charge) • Bike selection on tours outside of Europe may vary
TRAVEL PLANNING
• An expert office staff in the United
States and Italy to assist you with preand post-tour travel consultation
• A practical pre-departure package containing information on your destination, what to bring, what to expect and suggestions on how to prepare for the tour, including a training program
• Convenient meeting points for arriving and departing
• Pre- and post-tour hotel reservations, pre- and post-tour
shuttle reservations (available for the hotels used on tour)
GUIDES AND VAN SUPPORT
• Experienced, bilingual, local and/or native guides, equipped with mobile phones
ON THE TRIP
• Carefully crafted itineraries (many award-winning itineraries)
• Detailed route instructions and maps
• Local guides to lead walks, educational talks or other activities
• Private van support to transport luggage and provide assistance when necessary
highlighting daily options
• GPS tracks available for download (Garmin GPS at an extra charge)
• Wine and food tastings • Cooking demonstrations • Guided tours • Cycling clinics • Museum visits • Activities to immerse you in the local culture, including bike rides with locals, visits to festivals and special events (subject to availability)
• Extra loops available on all trips for
those looking to log some more miles
• Custom-designed cycling jersey for
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
• Airfare • Gratuity for Ciclismo guides • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Transfers to the starting point (unless specified) • Helmets (required) • Transport of bike case for guests who bring their
own bike (shipping to the destination available for additional fee)
• Personal expenses such as laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc.
every guest, made in Italy, by Pissei
• Group transfer at the end of the tour • Tips and gratuities for performers,
local city guides and other included activities
• All transfers that occur during a tour
ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
45
Peace of Mind Guaranteed We are the award-winning bicycle vacation pioneers since 1989! With over 25 years of exceptional service in the active travel industry, our itneraries, guides and agency as a whole have been recognized by big names in the travel business. We are honored to receive awards for our dedication to our guests, and continue to strive to achieve greatness.
OUTSIDE MAGAZINE
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC: 50 TOURS OF A LIFETIME
Best Foodie Destination Our Bike Across Belgium tour was selected by Outside as a “Best Foodie Destination” in their 2014 Travel Awards.
Bike Across France, part of our famed “Bike Across” collection, was awarded “50 Tours of a Lifetime” by National Geographic Traveler in 2013.
Best Cycling Guide in the World Marcello Bonini was awarded “Best Cycling Guide in the World” by Outside magazine during their 2014 Travel Awards. Check our “Top Guide Tours” on page 12 for a list of tours our other Top Guides run each year.
We run the most tours out of any competitor on the beautiful Mediterranean island of Sardinia, so it comes to no surprise that our Mediterranean Island-Hopping landed on National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” in 2011! From family, to multisport, to special culinary departures, we offer a wide range of tours on this beautiful Mediterranean island. It came with great honor to hear that our Sardinia MultiSport made National Geographic Traveler’s list of “50 Tours of a Lifetime”!
“ Th is was one of our best vacations and we will cherish all our wonderful biking experiences with the Ciclimso Classico group. Thank you for making our first experience in Italy so fantastic.” — Vicki Scheidt and Jack and Molli Hoopes, Hanover, NH
46
ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC: BEST ADVENTURE TRAVEL COMPANIES
2007 OUTSIDE TRIP OF THE YEAR
2004 OUTSIDE TRIP OF THE YEAR
National Geographic Traveler conducts an unprecedented survey of adventure travel companies, based on the idea that a traveler’s most important decision is not always where to go, but whom to go with. It came with great honor to be selected as one of their 2008 Best Adventure Travel Companies—and again in 2009! This was a huge accomplishment for us, and we can’t thank our guests and staff enough for making this possible!
Piedmont: Land of Barolo and Truffles is a gourmet fantasy and feast for the eyes! It comes as no surprise that this tour was the recipient for the 2007 Outside “Trip of the Year”!
Outside, America’s leading active-lifestyle brand, awarded our Bike Across Southern Italy tour, fueled by the success of Bike Across Italy, as the 2004 “Trip of the Year.”
THE COMMONWEALTH INSTITUTE: TOP 100 WOMEN-LED BUSINESSES When Boston Business Journal announced its 2012 list of the Top 100 Women-led Businesses in eastern Massachusetts, we were ecstatic to find that Ciclismo Classico had made the list!
Ciclismo Cares
Bringing dreams to life, Ciclismo Classico has built local and global relationships with the following organizations:
Pan Mass Challenge
We Love Our Alumni
Ciclismo Classico was founded as a family business, and our mission is to extend our family values to our team and guests. Here are just some of the benefits of being part of la famiglia Ciclismo: EARLY SIGN-UP ALUMNI SAVINGS Save from 5%–18% on the cost of your tour when you sign up before Thanksgiving! Savings are based on how many times you’ve toured with us before. Call 1.800.866.7314 for details! And when it comes to expanding the Ciclismo family, we offer even more savings such as our Referral Program and our group organizer incentives. Are you new to Ciclismo? We love you too!
• Loved your trip? Refer a friend! We have revamped our Referral Program to make it easier and better for anybody to share the fun.
• Groups love us and we love groups. Any departure can become private and you can become a group organizer of your next tour. (See page 49.)
• For more fun, take more than one trip. Save 10% off your second and third trips. • New travelers can enjoy 5% off (same deadline as Alumni savings). Book and get hooked! For more information, call 1.800.866.7314 or visit ciclismoclassico.com.
ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
47
2015 Trip Finder EASY ATHLETIC BEGINNER I N T E R M E D I AT E ADVANCED FA M I LY TOP GUIDE PHOTO
48
Please visit www.ciclismoclassico.com for updated departures.
The boldface dates below denote guaranteed departures.
Pg.
TRIP NAME / TYPE
PRINCIPAL REGION
LENGTH
Miles/Kilometers JAN
19
TO VENICE, CON GUSTO
Multi
6 Days
146 mi / 235 km
20
AMALFI STROLL & ROLL
Amalfi Coast
9 Days
70 mi / 112 km
21
SUD TYROL ROLL
Trentino
8 Days
157 mi / 253 km
22
LA BELLA PUGLIA MINI
Puglia
6 Days
22
LA BELLA PUGLIA
Puglia
23
FRIULI & SLOVENIA
24
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JULY 12
AUG
PRICE
+ Private Room
13
$3,695
$700
19
$4,695
$900
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
24
7
11, 25
16
6
$4,595
$800
130 mi / 209 km
25
9, 30
6
9, 19
3, 17
$3,595
$600
9 Days
235 mi / 378 km
25
9, 30
6
9, 19
3, 17
$4,695
$800
Friuli / Slovenia
8 Days
198 mi / 319 km
30
13
25
5
3
$4,595
$800
ASSAGGIO TOSCANA
Tuscany
6 Days
147 mi / 237 km
18, 25
8, 22
6
31
14, 21
5, 19
$3,495
$600
25
DIVINE PROVENCE
France
8 Days
238 mi / 383 km
9, 16
13
18
22
8, 19
10
$4,995
$900
25
AUSTRIA & CZECH REPUBLIC
Austria / Czech Republic
9 Days
261 mi / 420 km
29
26
7
4
26
NEW! SAVOR SARDINIA
Sardinia
7 Days
192 mi / 309 km
23, 31
14
22
27
27
SWEPT AWAY IN SARDINIA
Sardinia
10 Days
274 mi / 441 km
15
12
11
28
MEDITERRANEAN ISLAND-HOPPING
Sardinia / Corsica
11 Days
316 mi / 509 km
12
3, 24
14
29
LA BELLA SICILIA MINI
Sicily
6 Days
196 mi / 315 km
21
3
15
18
9, 23
29
LA BELLA SICILIA
Sicily
9 Days
243 mi / 351 km
21
3
15
18
9, 23
$5,195
$900
29
GRAN CANARIA
Canary Islands
7 Days
166 mi / 267 km
$4,195
$800
30
THE HEART OF TUSCANY
Tuscany
7 Days
168 mi / 270 km
3, 17
14, 28
5
6,20,27 5
$4,295
$800
31
PIEDMONT: LAND OF BAROLO & TRUFFLES
Piedmont
7 Days
165 mi / 265 km
24
14, 28
12
30
15, 30
10
$4,595
$800
32
BIKE ACROSS ITALY
Multi
11 Days
350 mi / 563 km
11, 24
10, 24
5, 22
23
2, 4, 20
4
$5,395
$900
33
NEW! BIKE ACROSS BELGIUM
Belgium / Luxembourg
9 Days
326 mi / 525 km
18, 26
8, 22
$4,595
$800
34
BIKE ACROSS FRANCE
France
10 Days
309 mi / 497 km
26
10
28
11,25
$5,695
$1,000
34
CROATIA: ISTRIAN PENINSULA
Istria
8 Days
264 mi / 425 km
13
11
12
$4,495
$800
35
NEW! ARGENTINA ACTIVA – Hike, Bike, Kayak
Argentina
9 Days
200 mi / 322 km
$5,195
$800
36
BIKE ACROSS SOUTHERN ITALY
Multi
12 Days
430 mi / 692 km
19
$5,295
$900
37
GIRO D’ITALIA
Multi
15 Days
715 mi / 1151 km
23
$6,795
$1,100
38
BIKE ACROSS EUROPE
Multi
12 Days
610 mi / 982 km
29
31
$6,495
$1,000
39
NEW! VERONA TO SALZBURG
Italy / Austria
13 Days
378 mi / 608 km
29
31
$6,595
$1,000
39
PYRENEES: SEA TO SEA
France / Spain
10 Days
430 mi / 692 km
3
$5,395
$800
40
MAJESTIC DOLOMITES
Dolomites
7 Days
410 mi / 660 km
19
30
$3,995
$700
40
FRENCH ALPS TO FRENCH RIVIERA *
Multi
9 Days
396 mi / 637 km
17 *
21
$4,995
$800
41
NEW! FOLLOW THE GIRO
Italy
41
MARATONA DLES DOLOMITES
Dolomites
8 Days
225 mi / 362 km
$4,595
$800
43
SUD TYROL FAMILY **
Trentino
7 Days
108 mi / 173 km
5, 19
$3,895 *
$700
43
FUN IN THE SARDINIAN SUN **
Sardinia
7 Days
134 mi / 216 km
26
$3,895 *
$700
43
TUSCAN FANTASY **
Tuscany
6 Days
121 mi / 195 km
27
10
$3,795 *
$700
43
PROVENCE POUR LA FAMILLE **
Provence
7 Days
134 mi / 216 km
2, 16
$4,295 *
$700
12
IRELAND – Athletic Beginner
Ireland
9 Days
211 mi / 340 km
$5,495
$900
12
BIKE ACROSS SWITZERLAND – Intermediate
Switzerland
8 Days
208 mi / 335 km
13
TOSCANA VERDE – Intermediate
Tuscany
7 Days
295 mi / 475 km
13
ETNA/SICILIAN ISLANDS – Family **
Sicily
9 Days
159 mi / 256 km
13
MEDIEVAL MUSIC MAGIC – Intermediate
Tuscany
9 Days
250 mi / 402 km
15
NEW! ARGENTINA VISION AND VINE *** – Hike
Argentina
9 Days
N/A
15
NEW! WILDLIFE IN PANTANAL – Hike & Boat
Brazil
9 Days
N/A
15
NEW! SECRET SARDINIA – Bike & Hike
Sardinia
9 Days
N/A
20
15
8
30
5
$4,695
$800
3
$3,995
$700
9
$5,295
$1,000
$5,595
$1,000
$3,895
$700
13, 27
15
27
29 4, 18
18
27 16
1 5
11
19
6
4
Visit www.ciclismoclassico.com for the itineriary, based on race dates and stages. 29 2
25 18 31 11 24 2, 16
5 1 8, 18
$4,895
$900
$3,495
$800
$5,295
$900
$5,395
$800
$5,195
TBD
$6,695
TBD
$5,195
TBD
*This trip will feature an opportunity to view several Tour de France stages and ride the routes. **Please visit website for children’s pricing. ***Be the first on this great trip! 11/5–11/13, 2014. See website. ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
Dream of Creating Your Own Tour?
Enjoy Ciclismo Your Way! Just like a great meal, a Ciclismo Classico adventure is better when shared. Gather your friends, pick any of our departures and get ready to savor the trip of a lifetime!
You Dream It, We Design It! Take an existing tour and make it private just for you, or compose the itinerary of your dreams. That’s Ciclismo Your Way, and our expert trip planners will work with you to create the dreamiest and most memorable trip you can imagine. There’s no idea too big or too small. If you can dream it, we can design it! We love groups and offer special incentives for our group leaders. Contact us or go to our website to find out all the ways it pays to share the Ciclismo Magic. ciclismoclassico.com | 1.800.866.7314
49
CLASSICO P E D A L
Y O U R
30 Marathon Street Arlington, MA 02474 USA Tel: 800.866.7314 Fax: 781.641.1512
P A S S I O N ciclismoclassico.com
Pedal Your Passion! Experience the Ciclismo Difference
• Transforming lives with innovative, award-winning itineraries since 1989 • The Italian bicycle tour pioneers with more pedaling itineraries in Italy than anyone • The world’s best tour leaders connect you to local lands and cultures • Guest service that is outstanding, personal and genuine • Top-of-the-line bicycles, equipment and gear • One-on-one bicycle coaching and clinics on every tour • Unsurpassed fun, learning, exercise and relaxation all in one trip • Committed to discovering and delivering the world’s best places to ride
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