Girolibero Brochure 2016

2016 Brochure

Cycling and Bike and Boat in Italy and France

h 7 p.m. dinner is served aboard Bike and Boat Mantua to Venice

Girolibero via Conforto da Costozza, 7 I-36100 Vicenza T. +39 0444 330724 TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 www.girolibero.com

Easy cycling holidays in Italy and France

Bike & Boat Bike & Hotel Bike & Family Roadbike

FRANCE

ITALY

Selected hotels We handpick your accommodation to ensure it’s both comfortable and conveniently located for the tour.

Easy cycling On the move but relaxed.

Off the beaten track but all organised for you.

3 Tour types Self-guided, guided and tailormade: choose your option.

Luggage transfer All included in the price, as you cycle from hotel to hotel. Enjoy your biking – we take care of your bags.

Info material We pride ourselves on our tour-specific maps, detailed roadbooks and ad-hoc travel guides.

People just love them.

Bike rental Over 1,500 bikes, all specially designed and personally assembled by our mechanics to suit our tours.

Assistance Our Helpline is available 7 days a week. Support at hand when necessary.

OUR BASES

OUR TOURS About us About Girolibero . . . . . . . . . . . p. 4 Tour Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 6 Our Bikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 8 Accompanying Material . p. 10 Greens, our bike guides . . . p. 12 Photo contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 14 Our barges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 18 Life on board. . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 22 Chartering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 24 Booking Conditions . . . . . . .p. 88 Booking Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 91

Orléans Base for nothern France

Vicenza Company HQ and Base for northern Italy

Bike & Boat in Italy Mantua–Venice . . . . . . . . . . p. 26 Venice–Mantua . . . . . . . . . . p. 27 Bolzano–Mantua– Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 28

Arles Base for southern France

Bike & Boat in France Aigues-Mortes–Avignon . p. 30 Avignon–Aigues-Mortes . . p. 31

Lecce Base for southern Italy

CONTACTS Girolibero Via Conforto da Costozza 7 I - 36100 Vicenza Vat Number IT- 03794470249 Monday to Friday 8.30 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 18.30 (GMT +1) Tel (+39) 0444 330724 Fax (+39) 0444 167930 TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 info@girolibero.com www.girolibero.com Graphics: www.noparking.it

Bike & Hotel in Italy Venice Lands . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 36 Vicenza–Venice . . . . . . . . . .p. 38 Venice Lagoon round tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 39 Bolzano–Verona–Venice . p. 40 Resia Pass–Verona/Mantua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 42 Bolzano–Verona . . . . . . . . . p. 44 Resia Pass–Bolzano . . . . . . .p. 45 Innsbruck–Verona/Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 46 Lake Garda–Venice . . . . . . .p. 47 Bolzano–Bassano–Venice .p. 48 Bolzano–Cortina–Venice . .p. 49 Venice–Poreč . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 50 Lake Garda–Adriatic . . . . . p. 52

Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 53 Veneto thermal baths . . . . p. 54 South Tyrol Valleys . . . . . . p. 55 Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 56 Tuscany: Pisa–Siena . . . . . . p. 57 Tuscany: Pisa–Florence . . .p. 58 Tuscany: Chianti. . . . . . . . . .p. 59 Umbria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 60 Apulia short break . . . . . . . . p. 61 Apulia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 62 Sicily . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 64 Bike & Hotel in France Provence–Camargue . . . . . . p.65 Loire valley Orléans–Saumur . . . . . . . . . . p.66 Loire valley Orléans–Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . p.68 Loire valley Blois–Amboise . . . . . . . . . . . . p.69 Paris–London . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.70

Bike & Family in Italy Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 74 Vicenza–Abano . . . . . . . . . . . p. 75 South Tyrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 76 Bike & Family in France Loire valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 77

Roadbike in Italy Bolzano–Venice . . . . . . . . .

South Tyrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Venice Lands . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tuscany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

I Bellissimi . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

p. 80 p. 82 p. 72 p. 83 p. 84 p. 85 p. 86

Brochure 2016

About Girolibero

ABOUT GIROLIBERO

Simply put: we are the experts for cycling holidays in Italy and France. Our reputation is built on tried and tested tours that are accessible to most cyclists, designed along quiet and enjoyable routes. We’re also renowned for the quality of our bikes, reliable support, generous info packs, comfy accommodation and some great food to go with it.

VISIT US IN VICENZA

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About Girolibero

Brochure 2016

Our brand new headquarters in Vicenza

EASY CYCLING, SMART WORKING

OUR TRIP DESIGNERS

OUR TOUR LEADERS

From product management and logistics to marketing, from sales staff and number crunchers to tour leaders, from mechanics to drivers – over 40 people work in synergy to provide you with the best possible holiday experience.

Our brand new headquarters are located in historic Vicenza, not far from Venice, and consist of 1,500 m² of offices, soundproof walls and workshops (all in equal measure). Not forgetting 70 moving desks, 15 potted lemon trees and – when the huffing and puffing all gets too much – a Staff Chillout Zone as well.

Take a virtual tour of our headquarter girolibero.com/virtualtour

Meeting our clients’ requests is a matter of pride. We can supplement or adapt our services to your needs; we can extend stages or arrange specific departures. Or why not ask us to design a new itinerary exclusively for you, whether the destination’s in the brochure or not? We love a good challenge.

Hand-picked, professional and thoroughly trained, our tour leaders also attend a special Girolibero training weekend every year. Their job is to do what it says on the can: Lead Tours.

They will be familiar with all things local – from the people and their culture to the terrain and the sites – and they’re there to make the experience as rich and enjoyable as possible.

See their latest training weekend: vimeo.com/girolibero

SEE INSI DE our workshop girolibero.com/ virtualtour

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Brochure 2016

Tour type

WHICH ONE’S FOR ME?

Self-guided / guided / Tailormade, it’s your CHOICE! Some like cycling under their own steam, others prefer a carefree guided tour, while some may ask for a tailormade holiday...

What does not change is our willingness to please all and sundry.

SELF-GUIDED TOURS For the independent rider – whether solo or with friends and family – following our own set route using our maps and detailed directions for each stage. No group, no Tour Leader: just rider and bike. Girolibero will book your hotels, transfer your luggage from stop to stop, and provide you with all necessary information material and assistance. You will be spoilt for choice: discover Italy on two wheels, head to toe – or why not head for France and discover some its most beautiful regions?

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Tour type

Brochure 2016

GUIDED TOURS The ideal holiday for the cyclist who enjoyes the company of others and meeting like-minded people. Plus, the peace of mind of travelling with a Tour Leader: they guide the group along the route and are informed about all things local; they are also there to help if necessary and generally run the show.

The following are available as group tours in this brochure: Mantua–Venice

by Bike and Boat (p. 26), Provence– Camargue by Bike and Boat (p. 30), Veneto (p. 36), Bolzano–Verona–Venice (p. 40), Paris–London (p. 70).

TAILORMADE TOURS Whether it’s for a special interest group, an extended family clan or a tribe of friends; for an association, a club or a business: we can adapt our existing tours or create new ones from scratch.

Flexibility is the name of this particular game: 1) hotels picked to suit your needs, 2) shorter or longer cycling stretches as requested, 3) customised background material, 4) an expert Tour Leader. And these are the cards we play with: 5) top quality hire bikes (pp.

8-9), 6) bike trailers to transport them anywhere around Europe (up to 200), 7) floating hotels for any Bike and Boat tours (see pp. 18-21), 8) Plus, we can book the best restaurants, Guided tours and any other extra service.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Brochure 2016

Bikes

OUR BIKES

OUR E XPERIENCE, YOUR WHEE LS

Over 1,500 bicycles assembled by our own mechanics specifically with your needs in mind.

UNISEX BICYCLE Deore Shimano: 27 gears available also with Nexus Shimano: 7 gears with pedal brake.

HANDLEBAR BAG klickfix.de connection

ELECTRIC BIKES By popular demand, Girolibero has now invested in a considerable number of e-bikes, much favoured by cyclists who love the Great Outdoors, but prefer to let the bike take the strain. Our research has led us to: Kalkhoff, Agattu model Motor: 36 volts, 540W/H Impulse, located centrally. The high-capacity battery is secured to the seat tube. Gears: Nexus 8-speed. Range: approx. 90 km (flat terrain, average speed).

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Bikes

Brochure 2016

SPECIALISTS AND CRAFTSMEN

MEN’S BICYCLE Deore Shimano: 27 gears available also with Nexus Shimano: 7 gears with pedal brake.

RACING BIKE With carbon fork and 27-gear Shimano Tiagra.

TANDEM DEEP Low entry, 8 gears: the perfect tandem for a cycling tour. pedalpower.de

TANDEM PINO Revolutionary, easily manoeuvrable.

Perfect vision for both. hase-bikes.com

Girolibero’s unmistakeable orange bike (branded with our famous Green Bee!) is assembled in Vicenza. It’s a low-entry citybike with an aluminium frame, mudguards, a saddlebag rack, comfortable gel saddle, punctureresistant Schwalbe Marathon tyres, and with responsive breaks and gears. At the point of hire we also provide waterproof Ortlieb saddlebags, handlebar bag or mapholder, repair kit and combination lock – all for free.

All bikes are serviced, tuned and cleaned prior to each departure.

REPAIR KIT

FAMILY TANDEM A versatile bike for cycling with more than one child (ages 3-10) onderwaterfiets.nl

FOLLOWME-TANDEM Also available (ages 4-7): the child’s bike can be locked firmly onto the tail of the adult’s bike when necessary. followme-tandem.com

CHILD TRAILER With one seat (ages 0-4). croozer.com

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Brochure 2016

Accompanying Material

ROADBOOK, TRAVEL GUIDES, MAPS AND BACKUP

One distinguishing feature is the quality of the accompanying material we provide.

In fact, our main wintertime occupation, back at head office, is compiling, updating and fine-tuning the information that helps make your holiday a success.

EVERYTHING YOU NEE D INFO-PACK SELF-GUIDED TOURS We provide one complete info-pack per room/cabin, containing: 1. Travel documents (tour notes, final tour details, vouchers, hotel list...)

2. Luggage labels 3. Handlebar bag 4. Water bottle (1 per Bike) 5. Girolibero Greens Roadbook (pp. 12-13) 6. Girolibero Greens Maps (pp. 12-13) 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide (pp. 12-13) or produced by another publisher On request and adding an extra cost, we can give also GPS-Device with maps

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GUIDED TOURS A tour leader will guide the group and take with him the travel documents for all the participants. You will receive the following items only: 2. Luggage labels 3. Handlebar bag 4. Water bottle (1 per Bike) 6. Girolibero Greens Maps (pp. 12-13) 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide (pp. 12-13) or produced by another publisher FINDING THE WAY To help you follow the roadbook more easily, we placed arrow stickers as road signs along the way. With them and our accompanying material it will be impossible to get lost!

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

TELEPHONE ASSISTANCE Our customer care and hotline service is there to assist you seven days a week (from 8.00 to 20.00 hours) for any emergency or tour-related issue.

Our vehicles and staff are never far away since we look after your bikes and your luggage. We are therefore generally available to step in to help at short notice, if required.

I DON’T SPEAK ITALIAN! No problem! Our guides and travel documents are available in English and German, as well as (depending on the destination) in French and Dutch.

Our Tour Leaders and staff are generally multilingual too.

Accompanying Material

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Brochure 2016

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3

2

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Brochure 2016

Greens Guides

GREENS, OUR BIKE GUIDES

A series of guides specifically created with your needs in mind: practical, easy to read, light to carry.

And a great souvenir to take home and help you reminisce! A feature since 2011, with more titles joining the series every year.

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Greens Guides

A TRIO OF BOOKLETS

1) TRAVEL GUIDE*

3) ROADBOOK

Depending on the destination, you would receive:

with valuable information about the history, artistic heritage, landscapes and natural treasures of the areas visited on the tour.

Plus: local events, some great anecdotes, suggestions on how to make the best of an extended break along the route, and tips on local wining and dining.

Browse the Greens travel guides on our website girolibero.com/greens

describing the cycling route, stage by stage. Great on its own or in conjunction with the maps.

N.B. Map booklets and roadbooks are available in English, German, French and Italian, and in some cases in other languages too. * Greens travel guides are currently available for: Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Bike and Boat; Bolzano–Verona–Venice, Bolzano– Verona, Venice–Porecˇ , Resia Pass– Bolzano, Paris–London, Apulia.

New titles are coming soon!

For all other tours, you will receive (free of charge) a comprehensive and up-to-date guide produced by another publisher.

2) DETAILED MAPS of the itinerary: in colour and scaled 1:75.000/50.000, an altitude profile chart and maps of any historic city centres you would visit.

Ostiglia/Sermide

Pietole Vecchia

Lunetta-Frassino

Viale de lla F avo rita

G irola

Via

Br es

cia

Stra da S .

io

Gambarara Via Verona

SP ex SS62

Porto Mantovano

le

SP ex SS236bis

Montata

SP ex SS10

SP28

SP81

THE ROADBOOK EFFORTLESS Tangenziale NAVIGATION: Nord

Via r s le i v de o lla M Fa i n vo c rit i o a

Via Brennero

3

Lago di Mezzo

ve

5

Lu dei Gngolago onza ga

Di

Vi a Pa 1,5 rma

3

Lago Inferiore

Via Fon dam

o Bosco V i

rgili an

Pietole

ol V ic 2

enta

. B. V isi Viale Viale Ison Riso z rgim o ento

Via G

i

Cer v Via Frat elli

oma na

1,5

Via J. Daino aestr o oM

nc

go gna

Via R

Via Trieste

1

e Via L

Parco del M inc io

Str.

Via Fal G. con e

Via d

2,5

o Re a Viale di Poggi

2

ni ei Muli

P i t entino

II

Via Pa r 2,5 m a

Via M ti ri della Liar bertà

Vi a

1

Via le M i

o ne S ud azi

all

nv

pol ve

Via S

Cerese

Dona ti

a

Virgilio

lt a

Piave Viale

Via M .

Via C is

Lago Sup eriore

Mantova

SP29

23

mo

C.so V. Emanuele

to ot

SP ex SS62

Via Parenz aA

Lag oP aio l

i lio

4,5

Parco d e l M i nci o

rso l Co de

Cappelletta

a rin

sso

Viale Pom p

Peschiera del Garda

o

Via Ar gin

Do

Strada C o ir c V ia

ies

Levata

da

Tangenziale Sud

Str ada SP ex SS420 Ch an uov a

Ma Via ria San Nu ta ov a

a Str

SP29

Via Cremona

1

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Brochure 2016

(A) Column withSt kilometres reset to ra zero every 10 km.daAnyone opting for Fos sam ana the bike a detour SP25can simply reset computer at the appropriate spot, after rejoining the standard route.

(B) The standard route’s cumulative distance (C) Type of path and level of traffic: 1. Cycle path 2. Cycle path marked on a main road 3. Level of road traffic from 3 (Low) to 6 (Very Busy)

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Brochure 2016

Photo contest

WIN A BIKE&BOAT HOLIDAY IN ITALY! We believe in rewarding our customers, and what better way than by appreciating your best photos?

We are keen to include as many as possible on our website and in our brochures. Better still, if your photo is the chosen prize winner, you will earn yourself a week’s bike and boat holiday in Italy.

Kristine Tormenov - Loire Valley classic tour from OrlĂŠans to Saumur

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Photo contest

Brochure 2016

PHOTO CONTEST We are not looking for professional shots: what we really love is pictures that portray the beauty of the places you visit and the cycling itinerary, as well as the ones that capture the fun of the moment, a great group photo, your selfies or a memorable night in good company!

Andrea Massa - Loire Valley Bike&Family

Terms & Conditions on our website www.girolibero.com AND THE WINNER IS...

Kristine Tormenov, Loire Valley classic tour from Orléans to Saumur. (see left page).

Serena Buratto - Venice Lands, Palladian Villas and Prosecco vineyards

Mary Steinhauff - From Mantua to Venice Bike&Boat

Cathy MacRomy - Provence and Camargue Bike&Boat

Ruyter D’Aquino - Apulia, coastline and culture of Italy’s heel

Lyne Demontigny - From Venice to Mantua Bike&Boat

Theresa Mad - The Avenue Verte Paris–London

Jackie Marchand - From Mantua to Venice Bike&Boat

Tamara Veenendal - Provence and Camargue, Avignon to Aigues Mortes

Catherine Brossais - Adige Cycle Route

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Boat

Intro

NICE PEOPLE LOVE CYCLING

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Intro

Bike & Boat

BIKE & BOAT A bike by day for transport, a boat by night for meals and a good sleep Your barge or river cruiser is your floating hotel and follows the cycling stages along the river. Fancy a lazy day in? – Well, there’s your home from home.

All boats are fully crewed: a skipper at the helm, and catering staff to prepare breakfast, a slap-up dinner and all you need for your packed lunch.

Our Bike & Boat tours can be enjoyed either on a group tour accompanied by a tour leader, or self-guided.

MADE BY GIROLIBERO We have been running Bike and Barge tours since 1998, offering the classic Netherlands. Ten years later we shipped the “Bike and Barge” formula over to Italy – quite literally. There were no suitable boats available here for this type of holiday, so we decided to buy and transport the Vita Pugna barge over from Holland.

In 2011 we launched our second barge, the 4-star “floating hotel” Ave Maria which now sails along the waterways of Northern Italy to Venice.

Since 2011 we also exclusive charter two romantic barges in Provence-Camargue.

We are now proud to say that the Bike and Boat holidays in southern Europe are… “made by Girolibero”!

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Boat

Our barges

The Vita Pugna is a wonderfully romantic Dutch barge which we have been sailing since 2008, after her long voyage from Amsterdam to the river Po.

Vita Pugna IN FIGURES Capacity: 21 guests Length: 36 m Width: 5.4 m Draught: 1.60 m CABINS › 10 Standard Twin cabins (including one accommodating up to 3 guests) of 7/8 m2.

All cabins are equipped with comfortable low twin beds and en-suite facilities. They also offer the convenience of attractive, traditional portholes, which can be opened for fresh air.

The corridor is air-conditioned.

Bed size is: 1.90/2 m x 0.75/0.80 m THE LIVING AREA There is a spacious airconditioned lounge/restaurant with 5 tables, accommodating up to 23 guests.

EXTRA FEATURES › 1 sundeck › Free hot drinks machine (including Italian ground coffee) › Free wi-fi › Dedicated bike storage › Large 42” screen in the lounge for video/internet TOURS Mantua–Venice/ Venice–Mantua, Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: (pp. 26-29)

TYPE OF CABINS C

Twin/Triple cabin 2+1 B B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

Twin cabin 2 Crew cabin

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Our barges

Bike & Boat

Modern, bright and spacious, the Ave Maria was designed by a well-known team of italian architects and launched in 2011.

Ave Maria IN FIGURES Capacity: 40 guests Length: 41 m Width: 7.5 m Draught: 1.05 m CABINS › 4 Superior Twin/Double cabins (two of these can accommodate up to 4 persons adding 2 bunk beds) above deck, approx. 11 m2 › 10 Standard Twin/Double cabins (three of these can accommodate up to 3 persons adding 1 bunk bed) below deck, approx. 11 m2 › 3 bunk bed cabins (also available as Single cabins) below deck, approx. 7.5 m2 All cabins enjoy sizeable windows (the ones in the Superior cabins can also be opened), comfortable low beds, en-suite facilities and air conditioning. Bed/bunk size is 2.00 x 0.80 m. Each double bed can be separated into two single beds.

THE LIVING AREA Measuring 11 x 7.5 m and airconditioned, it is divided in two areas: › the Restaurant (up to 33 seats) › the Lounge (up to 28 seats) EXTRA FEATURES › 2 sundecks › Free hot drinks machine (including Italian ground coffee) › Free wi-fi › Large 55” screen in the lounge for video/internet › Dedicated bike storage (for approx. 40 hanging bikes) › Hair-dryers (limited number) available on request TOURS Mantua–Venice/ Venice–Mantua, Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: (pp. 26-29)

D

D

D

D

B

A

B

B

C

B

B

B

A

B

C

A

C

TYPE OF CABINS D

C

Twin/Double Triple/ Family cabin 2+1+1 Twin cabin 2

B

Twin/Double/ Triple cabin 2+1 Double/ Triple cabin 2+1

Crew cabin

A

Twin/Double cabin 2

Single/ Bunk bed cabin 1+1

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Boat

Our barges

The Soleo is a local flatboat built in 1958, converted into a leisure boat in 1988 and refurbished in 2009.

Soleo IN FIGURES Capacity: 22 guests Length: 38.5 m Width: 5.1 m Draught: 1.6 m CABINS › 12 cabins (4 Doubles, 6 Twins, 2 Singles) measuring 7-8 m2 Each cabin has three fixed portholes (one is in the bathroom), air conditioning and en-suite facilities with shower area; plus ample closet space, a power socket and a full-length mirror.

Bed sizes: 1.90 m x 0.80 m (Singles) and 1.90 m x 1.40 m (Doubles).

THE LIVING AREA 4.70 m and air-conditioned, it is divided in two areas: › the Restaurant (up to 22 seats) › the Salon area with an open bar A total of 10 windows give plenty of natural light.

EXTRA FEATURES › Sundeck with seating accommodation and fixed awning. Half of the sundeck is completely sheltered from the elements › Free WiFi in the restaurant/ bar area › Stereo system in the restaurant/bar area TOURS Provence and Camargue Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/ Avignon–Aigues-Mortes (pp. 30-32) TYPE OF CABINS C

Double cabin 2 B

Twin cabin 2

B

C

B

A

C

B

A

Single cabin 1

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A

B

C

B

C

B

Our barges

Bike & Boat

L’Estello is a 1937 Dutch barge sailed over to France; she has been refurbished to offer a high level of comfort, without compromising any of her original charm.

L’Estello IN FIGURES Capacity: 20 guests Length: 39 m Width: 5.2 m Draught: 1.6 m CABINS › 10 Double cabins (one with a double bed and nine with twin beds) measuring 7-8 m2.

Each cabin has two portholes (one is in the bathroom), is airconditioned and has en-suite facilities.

Bed sizes: 1.90/2 m x 0.75/0.80 m THE LIVING AREA The air-conditioned living room is divided into two areas: › Restaurant, with large picture windows › Bar area with comfortable sofas and armchairs EXTRA FEATURES › Sundeck with a fixed awning, tables and chairs › Free WiFi in the restaurant/ bar area › “Bring and Borrow” supply of travel books › Pétanque/Boules sets and board games available TOURS Provence and Camargue Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/ Avignon–Aigues-Mortes (pp. 30-32)

TYPE OF CABINS C

Double cabin 2 B

Twin cabin 2 B

B

B

B

B

B

C

B

B

B

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Boat

Life on board

LIFE ON BOARD

DOING “BIKE & BOAT” IN STYLE

Service at its very best aboard our “floating hotels” in Italy and France: comfort, hospitality, quality and... Bella vita!

That, we believe, is what makes Girolibero’s Bike & Boat holidays unique.

OUR VERY OWN NOAH’S ARK Aboard our barges you’ll be joined by travelling companions from all over, as well as a Tour Leader who speaks the group’s two main languages – usually English and German. Shall we bet that you’ll go back home with a smattering of Italian or French?

COMFORT: RELAX IN YOUR CABIN

AND IN THE PUBLIC SPACES Our barges are among the most comfortable for Bike and Boat tours in Italy and France: en-suite cabins, low beds available on all boats, and clean and welcoming public spaces.

A great home-from-home to come back to every day.

0 Want to know more? Read all about our boats on pp. 18-21.

100% GIROLIBERO BIKES Our unmistakeable two-wheelers in their orange livery hold pride of place on our boats, ensuring trouble-free riding, comfort and safety.

0 Want to know more? Read all about our bikes on pp. 8-9.

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Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Life on board

Bike & Boat

“BUON APPETITO”!

In Italy we know a thing or two about pots and pans, and our on-board catering is simple but subtle, with a good selection of local wines and excellent service.

The Ave Maria and Vita Pugna chefs boast plenty of experience and, in the words of our clients, their dishes alone are worth the trip.

0 Here are two sample menus: 1) Linguine with asparagus, rare roast beef with fresh rocket leaves and stuffed tomatoes, Venetian mixed salad, tiramisù (see recipe below).

2) Freshly caught seafood in wine and herbs, seabass meunière with baby potatoes, fennel and orange salad, chocolate and cherry mousse.

SEE EVEN MORE OF FRANCE A Girolibero van and driver are on hand, should you want to have a day off your bike and explore Provence and Camargue at a more leisurely pace. Aboard the Estello and Soleo you will find all the info material you need to organise your day-trip.

0 A couple of ideas: visit the ancient Roman city of Nîmes; head into the Luberon lavender fields; sip some wines at Gallician; marvel at the Salins du Midi salt marshes; hike from Gallician to Aigues Mortes.

Some pictures from our Bike and Boat trips!

More on facebook.com/giroliberobikeandboat

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Bike & Boat

Chartering

EXCLUSIVE CHARTERING DOING “BIKE & BOAT” IN STYLE

For groups keener on sightseeing than cycling we can arrange a one-week river cruise with minibus excursions to cities of art, architecture and... shopping.

24

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Chartering

IN BRIEF › Relax and overnight stays aboard the 4* barge Ave Maria (Vita Pugna barge also available on request) › Daily minibus excursions to Verona, Lake Garda, Padova, Vicenza, Bologna, Milan... › You can modify the land excusions and visits and also request a bespoken board service (i.e. ask for a full lunch catered; 4-meal dinners; daily cleaning of the cabin; extra crew member…)

Bike & Boat

COURSES AND ACTIVITY BREAKS

THE WEEKS NOT TO BE MISSED › 17th July 2016 Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Holy Redeemer), Venice; › 31st August - 10th September 2016 The Venice Film Festival; › 4th September 2016 Regata Storica (the main historical Regatta in Europe) WINTER WEEKENDS

› Cooking, painting, yoga, history of art… › Teambuilding › Ave Maria and Vita Pugna have proved popular with groups of colleagues who want a quiet environment in which to spend some time bonding.

Have a look at the video from a recent team building exercise on board the Ave Maria on vimeo.com/girolibero

› During November and March, our boats in Italy are also available for weekends and longer breaks. How about celebrating Christmas, New Year‘s Eve or Carnival with us on board?

Milan

Treviso

Lake Garda

Vicenza Verona

Venice

Mincio

Mantua

Padova

Chioggia

Zelo Adria Canal Bianco Po S.Benedetto Revere Po

navigable river

Ferrara

navigable canal

ADRIATIC SEA

mooring place possible excursion by private bus

Po Delta

Bologna

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Boat

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Italy

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| 210 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

200 m

Venice

Chioggia

Adria

Ferrara

Zelo

Mantova Loop

Mantova

From Mantua to Venice Aboard Ave Maria or Vita Pugna

100 m 0m

I

Venezia

Laguna di Venezia e

Chioggia

Zelo

Adria

Revere

Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Delta del Po

Ferrara

DAY BY DAY

1. Mantua. The cabins are available from 4.30 p.m. The meeting with the tour leader and the crew is scheduled at dinner-time, at 7 p.m.

2. Mantua round tour (40 km). A day dedicated to the discovery of this little visited cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the Mincio, and its surrounding countryside – once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family and now considered by many as Italy’s “Sleeping Beauty”. In the late afternoon a local guide will lead you through the most known highlights of the town.

3. Mantua–Governolo–Zelo (50 km by bike). A short cruise along the lush banks of the Mincio takes us to Governolo, where it flows into the Po and forms the largest inland basin in Italy. At Governolo Lock, once a vital staging post for local

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navigation, we saddle our bikes and follow the Po through Ostiglia (famed for its medieval fortress and floating mill) and on to the village of Bergantino. Here we visit the charming Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum. Finally, we reach Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs parallel to the Po. 4. Zelo–Ferrara–Adria (50 km by bike + 60 km by bus). After breakfast we continue our bike and boat adventure cycling towards Ferrara, another key City State of ancient Italy. You will visit this historic town and discover its little touched centre, still surrounded by the original city walls. From Ferrara a short transfer by private coach will take you to Adria. Once close to the shores of the sea which bears its name, Adria was an ancient Greek port, famous for trading

Baltic amber. Its remarkable museum also bears witness to its Etruscan, Roman and Venetian heritage.

5. Adria–Porto Viro–Chioggia (40 km).

An exhilarating day of discovery alternating sailing and cycling starts with a short cruise to our drop-off point at Porto Viro and the exploration of the Po’s delta.

This unique wetland park is the prime reserve in Europe for herons and home to several colonies of flamingos. At the mouth of the River Adige, which flows fast and cool from the Dolomites, we then follow the Po-Brondolo waterway and reach the Venetian lagoon. Our overnight stop is the bustling and colourful fishing port of Chioggia, known as “Little Venice”.

6. Chioggia–Venice (30 km). A morning visit to the fish market is recommended and, time allowing, we also climb up Chioggia’s millennial clock tower – the oldest in the world – for some breathtaking views. We then enjoy some island hopping in the lagoon itself by bike and boat, starting with our barge dropping us off on Pellestrina (home to the Ca’ Roman nature reserve); and continuing by public ferry for the short crossing to the Lido island. Celebrated by Thomas Mann (Death in Venice) and particularly fashionable with the artists and aristoc-

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

racy of the Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home to the International Venice Film Festival and its galaxy of stars. Finally, our floating hotel takes us to our marina in Venice, for the culmination of our bike and boat holiday.

7. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the capital of the ancient “Serenissima Republic of Venice”, which held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centuries. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.

8. Venice.After breakfast end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.

Italy

City of Mantua, jewel of the Italian Renaissance Po Delta Reserve, natural beauty and birdlife Fresh seafood, cooked aboard following traditional recipes Lugana, white wine

MAPS

CYCLING

Bike & Boat

GUIDE

BIKE & BOAT

ROAD

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renowned for its Etruscan and Roman heritage.

5. Adria–Ferrara–Zelo (35 km by bike + 35 km by bus). After a short cruise we saddle our bikes and, following the Po through farmland and hamlets, we reach Ferrara. Under its overlords, the Este family, this ancient City State attracted influential architects and artists for centuries. A private bus takes us back to our floating hotel in Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs parallel to the Po. 6. Zelo–Mantua (50 km). After just a few kilometers on the bike we reach the village of Bergantino for a visit of the Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum. Following the river through Ostiglia (famed for its medieval fortress and floating mill) and on to Governolo Lock. Once a vital staging post for local navigation, this is where the River Mincio flows into the Po, creating the largest inland basin in Italy. Leaving the Po behind, we reach Mantua through a magnificent navigation in the afternoon.

7. Mantua round tour (40 km). An entire day dedicated to the discovery of this little visited cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the Mincio, and its surrounding countryside – once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family. In the late afternoon a local guide will lead you through the most known highlights of the town.

8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility to book extra nights.

· · · · ·

1. Venice. The cabins are available from 4.30 p.m. The meeting with the tour leader and the crew is scheduled at dinner-time, at 7 p.m.

2. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the capital of the ancient “Serenissima Republic of Venice”, which held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centuries. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.

3. Venice–Chioggia (30 km). Cruising out of Venice at a gentle pace, we start our bike and boat adventure on the Lido, the first of the two islands we explore today. Fashionable with the artists and aristocracy of the Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home to the International Venice Film Festival and its galaxy of stars. A short island-hop takes us to Pellestrina, where we cycle towards the Ca’ Roman nature reserve, past the fishermen’s cottages and boats. Here, where we rejoin the barge and sail to Chioggia – a bustling and colourful fishing harbour known as “Little Venice”.

4. Chioggia–Porto Viro–Adria (40 km).

A morning stroll through Chioggia’s fish market is recommended and, time allowing, a visit up the millennial clock tower – the oldest in the world – for some breathtaking views. Our cycling resumes southbound, into the delta of the imposing Po. This unique wetland park is the prime reserve in Europe for herons and home to a colony of flamingos. We overnight in Adria, an ancient Greek port once close to the shores of the sea which bears its name, also

G I

DAY BY DAY

Ma

From Venice to Mantua Aboard Ave Maria or Vita Pugna

Fro m

| 200 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

tua

|

ice to Man

|

From Ven

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Bike & Boat

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Boat

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Italy

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Bolzano, Italy’s northern outpost town Lake Garda, a natural heaven Tortelli di zucca, dumplings filled with pumpkin Gewürztraminer, white wine

| 370 km | 11 Days/10 Nights | the first 4 days Self-Guided only

Bike & Hotel + Bike & Boat Bolzano–Mantua–Venice

Lago di Garda

I

Venezia

Laguna di Venezia e

Zelo

Chioggia Adria

Revere

Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Delta del Po

Ferrara

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Bolzano.

2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km).

You cycle along the Adige beside apple orchards, vineyards and through the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. You then reach Trento: take your time to have a look behind the splendid walls of its painted buildings. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.

3. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). You reach Rovereto and Mori. From here you continue up on a gently rising slope in direction of Lake Garda. On the ferry boat you travel as far as Peschiera/ Desenzano along the southern shore of the lake.

4. Desenzano/Peschiera–Mantua (70/45 km). Today you will cycle follow-

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Venice

Chioggia

Adria

Ferrara

Zelo

Peschiera

Desenzano

Mantova 180

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280

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Padova

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Mantova

Trento

300 m

Vicenza Desenzano Peschiera

900 m 600 m

Rovereto

Riva del Garda

OVERNIGHT IN HOTEL OVERNIGHT ON BOARD

Trento

Bolzano/Bozen

Bolzano/Bozen

ing one of the most famous Italian cycle paths, which runs parallel to the River Mincio. The stage ends in Mantua, with overnight aboard our barges Ave Maria/ Vita Pugna.

5. Mantua round tour (40 km).

An entire day dedicated to the discovery of this wonderful city and its sorroundings dominated by the family of Gonzaga.

6. Mantua–Governolo–Zelo (50 km by bike). The boat takes you to Governolo, then you start the ride following the River Po. Subsequently you will visit the “Carousel and folk show museum” in Bergantino. After a few kms the barge awaits you in Zelo.

7. Zelo–Ferrara–Adria (50 km by bike + 60 km by bus). After breakfast you will start cycling towards Ferrara, a wonderful town with a historical centre, still surrounded by the old city walls. From

Ferrara a short bus transfer will bring you to Adria, an ancient Greek port, famous for trading amber coming from the Baltic.

8. Adria–Porto Viro–Chioggia (40 km).

The boat will bring you to Porto Viro. You will be suspended between water and land, as you will pedal between the Po Delta and the mouth of the River Adige.

You follow then the Po-Brondolo waterway, which links the river to the Venetian lagoon. You will stay overnight in Chioggia, known as “the little Venice”.

9. Chioggia–Venice (30 km). A visit to the fish market at dawn is an absolute “must”! The boat then brings you to the nature reserve of Ca’ Roman. Pedalling along the lagoon, you reach Pellestrina: from here, riding on the cycle path you reach the ferry landing stage. A short ferry-boat ride takes you to the Lido island, with a stop in Malamocco. After the final short ride you reach again the barge.

10. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the magnificent centre of Venice. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.

11. Venice. After breakfast end of services. It is possible to book extra nights.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

ROUTE PROFILE

From Bolzano to Mantua you will ride on well-planned cycle lanes, part of which run along the Adige banks. Towards Lake Garda there is a bit more challenging climb to face. From Mantua to Venice you will pedal along rivers and canals on tarmac cycle paths or roads with low traffic.

BY PLANE

Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) with the following airports: Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

Italy PRICE PER PERSON

Bike & Boat

GENERAL INFORMATIONS VITA PUGNA

AVE MARIA

Webcode - from Mantua

IT009

IT010

Webcode - from Venice

IT011

IT012

Standard cabin value season

840 €

990 €

Standard season

150 €

200 €

High season

220 €

370 €

-

140 €

SUPPLEMENTS

Superior cabin Single cabin

300 €

REDUCTIONS

Bunk bed cabin

-

3rd adult in the cabin

100 € 250 €

CHILDREN REDUCTIONS*

0 - 2 years

-

-90%

3 - 5 years

-

-50%

6 - 8 years

-

-30%

BICYCLE RENT

Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Upgrade Comfort saddle SR Scientia (Ave Maria Only)

15 €

Helmet

15 €

SURCHARGES FOR THE FIRST 4 DAYS FROM BOLZANO TO MANTUA (only Self-Guided)

Webcode

IT162

IT040

3/4* Hotels, in DBL room

390 €

Single room supplement

90 €

High season supplement (July, August)

20 €

Girolibero bike

45 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

90 €

Reductions 3rd/4th adult in room

60 €

DEPARTURES VITA PUGNA from Mantua: 9.04, 23.04, 7.05, 21.05, 4.06, 18.06, 2.07, 16.07, 30.07, 13.08, 27.08, 10.09, 24.09, 8.10.2016 from Venice: 16.04, 30.04, 14.05, 28.05, 11.06, 25.06, 9.07, 23.07, 6.08, 20.08, 3.09, 17.09, 1.10, 15.10.2016 AVE MARIA from Mantua: 2.04, 16.04, 30.04, 14.05, 28.05, 11.06, 25.06, 9.07, 23.07, 6.08, 20.08, 3.09, 17.09, 1.10, 15.10.2016 from Venice: 9.04, 23.04, 7.05, 21.05, 4.06, 18.06, 2.07, 16.07, 30.07, 13.08, 27.08, 10.09, 24.09, 8.10, 22.10.2016 SEASONS Value: 2.04 - 23.04 Standard: 30.04 - 20.08 and 8.10 - 22.10 High: 27.08 - 1.10 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 overnights, full board (breakfast, dinner and a self-made packed lunch), accompanying Tour Leader on board and on bike, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps (1:75.000), sheets and towels, route description and maps, bus transfer Ferrara–Adria/Ferrara–Zelo, harbour charges, coffee, tea and other hot drinks on board, mid-week cabin cleaning service and towel change, guided visit in Venice and Mantua, visit of a cheese factory with tasting of typical Grana Padano, visit of Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Beverages, museums, fees and extras in general, one ferry-boat stage in Pellestrina (about 9 €), tips, everything not included in the section “included in the price”.

EXTRA NIGHTS (LOCAL TAXES TO BE PAID ON-SITE) In Mantua: 45/75 € 3* Hotel - DBL/SGL; 85/125 € 4* Hotel - DBL/SGL upgrade 4* Hotel on request In Mestre: 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel - DBL/SGL In Venice: from 65/100 € 2/3* Hotels (Certosa Island) - DBL/SGL; from 90/150 € 3/4* Hotel - DBL/SGL

DEPARTURES FROM BOLZANO (Self-Guided tour) WE 20.04 - 28.09 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 3 nights hotel accommodation (in Bolzano, Trento, Peschiera/Desenzano), welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, detailed route description, 3-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Beverages, local hotel taxes (to be paid on spot), museums and extras in general, everything, which is not included in the section “included in the price”).

EXTRA NIGHTS IN BOLZANO 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel - DBL/SGL

* Discount only applying if child is occupying 3rd or 4th bed in the cabin. 4th bed only in the superior cabins available

USEFUL INFORMATION

NAVIGATION

The programme has been planned to feature navigation along the Fissero/ Bianco canal, which runs parallel to the Po and connects Mantua to the Adriatic Sea. Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays. These decisions are taken by the boat’s captain.

BIKE ROUTE

This cycling tour is largely along the flats of the Po plains, and the daily stages vary from 30 to 55 km – mostly on tarmac cycle paths along rivers and canals, or quiet country roads.

The boat is moored at night and typically sets sail after breakfast, meeting up with the bikes in the afternoon. Some parts of the itinerary are undertaken by boat, to allow easier access onto cycling paths.

GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED TOUR

The detailed directions and maps supplied will let you cycle independently or in a group, following the Tour Leader. The section Bolzano–Mantua is only self-guided.

BICYCLES

Unisex bikes with 27-gears Shimano Deore, fully equipped with 1 side-bag, 1 water bottle, 1 padlock, 1 map holder/front bag (only for Self-Guided) per bike and 1 repair kit per couple (only for Self-Guided). Because of high transportation costs of the bikes in Venice it is not advised to travel with own bikes.

HOW TO REACH VENICE AND MANTUA:

By Railway and Car Mantua is situated on the A22 Highway Brennero–Modena, only 50 km south of Verona. By train it is connected frequently to the railway station of Verona (journey: 45 min.) Venice is situated on the A4 highway and on one of the principal railway lines. The journey Venice–Mantua (or opposite) is covered by train in approx. 2,5 h.

By Plane Both Venice and Mantua are well served by many airports of Northern Italy: Venice (VCE), Treviso (TSF), Verona (VRN), Bergamo (BGY), Milano Malpensa (MXP), Milano Linate (LIN)

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Boat

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France

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| 260 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Vallabrègues

Boulbon

Tarascon

hône tR

Gallician

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0m 0 km

55 km

140 km

175 km

215 km

Avignon Loop

Avignon

Aramon

Arles 80 km

260 km

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Les-Baux-de-Provence

Pet i

Lunel

200 m

Vallabrègues

Villeneuve-lès-Avignon Pont du Gard Avignon Aramon Barbentane

Aigues-Mortes

Chateauneuf du-Pape

Roquemaure

Aigues-Mortes Loop

Bike & Boat in France Provence–Camargue

Arles

e ôn

St. Maries-de-la-Mer

Rh

Étang de Vaccarès

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Aigues-Mortes Le Grau-du-Roi

an

Gr

Montpellier

Étang de Berre

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

From Aigues-Mortes to Avignon DAY BY DAY

1. Aigues-Mortes. Individual arrival and boarding after 6 p.m. in Aigues-Mortes, medieval town, ancient military and commercial port on the Mediterranean.

2. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (55 km).

Going through small country lanes of Camargue between canals, lagoons and small villages you will reach in the afternoon the charming fishermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the beach.

3. Aigues Mortes–Arles (25 km).

You will sail for a couple of hours up to Saint Gilles and then cycle to today’s destination: Arles, known for the richness of its antique and Roman patri-

30

mony. The city fascinates you with its hidden treasures. Getting lost among its small alleys will be like entering a picture

by Van Gogh. In the afternoon you will also have the opportunity to be welcome by a professional guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town.

4. Arles–Vallabreguès (60 km).

This is a breathtaking stage, which brings you to the Alpilles, with the perched village of Les-Baux-deProvence and then to Saint Rémy de Provence. A landscape of limestone cliffs and olive trees will accompany the trip.

In the evening you will moor in Vallabrègues, pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône.

5. Vallabrègues–Aramon (35 km).

Along country roads you will arrive to Barbentane with its castle at the conflu-

ence of the Rhone and Durance rivers.

You will cycle to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigulet and afterwards down to the medieval village of Boulbon. In the afternoon navigation to Aramon for the overnight with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux.

6. Aramon–Avignon (40 km).

The stage today will bring you to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very spectacular work.

Back to Aramon in the afternoon you will sail to Avignon, the city of the Popes.

Your mooring place is in Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont St. Bénezet.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

7. Avignon, round tour (45 km).

You cycle in the direction of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low-traffic roads surrounded by vineyards. In Châteauneuf- du-Pape you can enjoy a tasting of the very famous Provençal wine. After that you will cross the Rhône at the height of Roquemaure and back through Villeneuve-lès-Avignon following the course of the river.

8. Avignon. After breakfast, end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.

France

Bike & Boat

0m 0 km

From Avignon to Aigues-Mortes DAY BY DAY

1. Avignon. Individual arrival and boarding after 6 p.m. in Avignon. Your mooring place is in Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont St. Bénezet.

2. Avignon, round tour (45 km).

You cycle in the direction of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low-traffic roads surrounded by vineyards. In Châteauneuf- du-Pape you can enjoy a tasting of the very famous Provençal wine. After that you will cross the Rhône

at the height of Roquemaure and cycle back through Villeneuve-lès-Avignon following the course of the river.

3. Avignon–Aramon (40 km).

In the morning navigation till the town of Aramon, where you will start pedaling.

The stage today will bring you to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very spectacular work. Overnight in Aramon with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux.

4. Aramon-Vallabrègues (35 km).

You start your day sailing to Vallabrègues, pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône. Along country

45 km

85 km

120 km

roads you will arrive to Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance rivers. You will cycle to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigulet and afterwards down to the medieval village of Boulbon. Overnight in Vallabrègues.

5. Vallabreguès–Arles (60 km).

This stage brings you to Saint Remy de Provence, birthplace of Nostradamus.

This village is also famous for having hosted Van Gogh in the days of his mental illness. In the end you move onto the Alpilles, with Les-Baux-deProvence, a village lodged in the rock itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs and olive trees accompanies your journey.

6. Arles–Aigues Mortes (25 km).

Today the whole morning is dedicated to visit Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul with beautiful Roman ruins. You will also have the opportunity to be welcome by a professional guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town. After lunch you reach the lock of Saint Gilles and from there you will sail to Aigues Mortes for the overnight stay.

7. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (55 km).

Going through small country lanes of Camargue between canals, lagoons and

180 km

205 km

Aigues-Mortes Loop

Arles

Vallabrègues

Aramon

Aigues-Mortes

200 m

Avignon Loop

Avignon

Pont du Gard, the highest Roman aqueduct Camargue Park, with its horses, bulls and wilderness Saucisson de taureau, typical salami of the Camargue Bandol, rosé wine

260 km

small villages you will reach in the afternoon the charming fishermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the beach.

8. Aigues-Mortes. After breakfast, end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

31

Bike & Boat

France

PRICES PER PERSON

GENERAL INFORMATIONS L’ESTELLO

SOLEO

Webcode - from Avignon

FR024

Webcode - from Aigues Mortes

FR030

Standard cabin value season

980 €

SUPPLEMENTS

Standard season

110 €

High season

170 €

Single cabin

300 €

BICYCLE RENT

Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

DEPARTURES FROM AVIGNON 16.04, 30.04, 14.05, 28.05, 11.06, 25.06, 9.07, 23.07, 6.08, 20.08, 3.09, 17.09, 1.10, 15.10.2016 FROM AIGUES-MORTES 23.04, 7.05, 21.05, 4.06, 18.06, 2.07, 16.07, 30.07, 13.08, 27.08, 10.09, 24.09, 8.10.2016 SEASONS Value: from April 16th to May 7th and from July 30th to August 20th 2016 Standard: from May 14th to July 23rd and from October 8th to October 15th 2016 High: from August 27th to October 1st 2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights accommodation, full board (breakfast, dinner and a selfmade packed lunch), sheets and towels, detailed route description, maps and info-pack, tour leader on bike, emergency van in the area, also available for daily excursions, guided visit of Arles, entrance to Pont du Gard, wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, harbour charges, tea and coffee on board.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Beverages on board, museums, tips, and everything which is not mentioned above.

EXTRA NIGHTS In Avignon 65/100 € 2/3* Hotel – DBL/SGL In Aigues-Mortes 65/100 € 2/3* Hotel – DBL/SGL

USEFUL INFORMATION NAVIGATION ON RIVERS AND CANALS

Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles can modify some of the daily stretches or embarkation points. These decisions are taken by the boat’s captain.

It is envisaged that the boat will sail some of the way during breakfast or the evening meal to make getting out of the towns easier or to shorten the stages.

BICYCLE

EMERGENCY VAN & TRANSFERS

Different frame sizes of unisex bikes with 27-gears Shimano Deore will be available on board. They are fully equipped with 1 side-bag, 1 water bottle, 1 padlock, 1 map holder/front bag (only for Self-Guided) per bike and 1 repair kit per couple (only for Self-Guided). Due to a limited space on board only a few own bikes will be accepted upon request.

A minivan is available on the area for emergencies. The same van offers alternative excursions for those customers who don’t want to cycle on some days or can organize transfers to shorten the longest stages. These extra services are not included and must be paid on site. Programs and prices are available on board.

BIKE ROUTE

Route on bike paths and low traffic roads in rural and city areas.

32

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

SELF-GUIDED AND GUIDED TOUR

This tour offers the chance to choose if pedalling alone (taking advantage of a very detailed route description) or with the whole group, following the tour leader. When booking the tour you need to specify which option is chosen (i.e. if Guided or Self-Guided).

HOW TO REACH AVIGNON AND AIGUES-MORTES BY PLANE

Both Avignon and Aigues-Mortes are well served by some airports: Montpellier Mediterranée (MPL), Marseille Provence (MRS), Nîmes Garons (FNI), Lyon Saint Exupéry (LYS), Avignon Caumont (AVN).

France

Bike & Boat

Bike & Hotel

Intro

NICE PEOPLE LOVE CYCLING

34

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Intro

Bike & Hotel

BIKE AND HOTEL The classic bike trip: landscapes and the Great Outdoors, without the hassle of logistical issues You ride and soak in the views; we do the rest.

The cycling holiday accommodated at carefully selected hotels: just enjoy your day in the Great Outdoors, in the knowledge that your accommodation is all arranged and that a welcoming room awaits at the other end.

YOUR TOUR CAN BE: Linear: in a week you’ll cross a whole region, enjoying a varied landscape. If you need, we will give you information to get back to the starting point at the end of the tour.

Round tour: the starting and ending point are just the same! Easier!

Centre-based: you won’t need to pack your suitcase every night: sleep in the same hotel and take it easy! You can even decide not to pedal one day if you don’t feel alike.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

35

Bike & Hotel

|

|

|

Italy

| 280 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Br

Pi

cch

Peschiera

ion

Mestre

e

Padova I Ad ig

e

Po

DAY BY DAY

Stra Laguna di Venezia

Venezia

MARE ADRIATICO

Chioggia

40

105

150

185

Padova 245

295

villas. Just before entering Vicenza you see the Villa Valmarana ai Nani with its marvellous frescoes by Tiepolo.

8. Vicenza. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27).

stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3.

ROUTE PROFILE

BY PLANE

- Total length: 270/295 km - Total vertical up: 530 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight

Vicenza/Mestre are well connected (60–90 min.) with the following airports: Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Treviso (TPS), Bergamo (BGY-150 min).

R

I B E O L R O

5. Mestre/Venice–Chioggia (1st cycling day for those starting in Mestre) (35 km). Leaving Mestre this morning, you head into Venice pedalling on the 4 km bridge “della Libertà”, then to Tronchetto harbour. From here you take a ferry along the canal Giudecca to Lido. This is the most exciting day, pedalling on two narrow islands that divide the sea from the lagoon: Malamocco and the island of Pellestrina.

6. Chioggia–Padova (60 km). You will be pedalling along the two rivers that carried trade in and out of Venice in this area centuries ago: Bacchiglione and Brenta. You continue on to Stra, famous for the majestic Villa Pisani. On arrival in Padova, you will find the great basilica dedicated to St. Anthony, the historic Caffè Pedrocchi and Prato della Valle.

7. Padova–Vicenza (50 km). The Bacchiglione River points the way out of the the city and you reach Costozza, a little town at the foot of the Berici hills. The bike path passes in front of Villa Rotonda, the most famous of the Palladian

0 km

· · · · ·

1. Vicenza. Individual arrival. A nice and Ferrara cosy historical city centre characterized by the buildings of the famous architect Andrea Palladio (16th century).

2. Vicenza–Bassano del Grappa (40 km). From Vicenza you cycle towards Marostica, famous for its castle and the chessboard in the main square. The last stop is Bassano del Grappa with its covered wooden bridge and the “grappa”.

3. Bassano del Grappa–Treviso (65/40 km). You enter Asolo, which presents us the only real uphill section of our ride. The downhill run takes you to the land of Prosecco vineyards and on to Maser. Possibility to shorten the stage of 25 km by taking the train from Montebelluna to Treviso.

4. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km).

Leaving Treviso behind you, follow the course of the River Sile up to Casale.

At the end of the trip Venice awaits you for an evening among canals and narrow streets. Accommodation in Mestre; a supplement applies for lodging in Venice.

36

Mestre

0m

igl

G

· · · · ·

Ba

Verona

200 m

G I

Vicenza

e

le

Lago di Garda

Si

ta

en

av

Vicenza

Treviso

Treviso

Montebelluna

Bassano

Asolo

Vicenza

Bassano del Grappa Marostica

Chioggia

Venice Lands Palladian Villas and Prosecco vineyards

The itinerary is completely in the lowlands except for the 1 km slope in Asolo.

You ride on secondary streets with low traffic or paved bike paths.

GIROLIBERO GREENS

R E E N S

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

Italy

Bike & Hotel

Palladian villas in Vicenza and Treviso Botanical Garden of Padova, an Unesco site Polenta and baccalà (polenta and stockfish) Merlot, red wine

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFORMATIONS

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Cat. B

Webcode

Cat. A+

IT003

Season 1

655 €

498 €

1290 €

Season 2 supplement

45 €

65 €

-

SGL supplement

198 €

145 €

280 €

Half Board ¹

170 €

140 €

-

GUIDED TOUR Webcode

IT053

Basic price

955 €

-

-

SGL supplement

198 €

-

-

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Cat. B

Cat. A+

Vicenza/Treviso

EXTRA NIGHTS DBL/SGL

from 55/85 €

from 40/65 €

on request

Mestre

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

55/65 €

Venice ²

DBL/SGL

from 90/150 €

on request

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Adults

130 €

100 €

-

Children 0 - 2 years

90%

90%

-

3 - 5 years

50%

50%

-

6 - 8 years

30%

30%

-

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* Hotels.

Cat. B mainly 3* Hotels, with some 2* Hotels and one 4* Hotel.

Cat. A+ only 4* and luxury hotels (night in Venice - 3* Hotel -instead of Mestre is included). ¹ 6 dinners included, beverages not included (3-course meal); ² on request night in Venice instead of Mestre (for departure from Mestre only possible as last night of the tour with delivery of the bikes in Mestre).

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA, SU from Vicenza (Cat. A, B, A+) TU, WE from Mestre (Cat. A, B) 26.03 - 22.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 26.03 - 27.05 and 12.09 - 22.10.2016 Season 2: 28.05 - 11.09.2016 GUIDED TOUR 23.04, 21.05, 25.06, 20.08, 24.09.2016 Minimum of participants: 8 persons INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 7-days Hotline service, ticket for ferry transfer (on day 5 valid only for Cat. A/A+, bike not included, approx. 4 €), entrance into Villa Valmarana ai Nani, ice-cream in the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza.

Guided tour includes also: Cat. A Hotel accommodation, 7 dinners (3-course meal, 1 dinner in Venice), guide on bike, support van in the area, Guided tour of Venice, visits and wine tasting.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

Only for cat. B ferry-boat transfers on day 5 (altogether about 25 € per person + bike).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

37

Treviso

ta en Br Ba

cch

igl

Verona

ion

Peschiera

e

Padova I Ad ig

e

PRICE PER PERSON

Stra

Venezia

Laguna di Venezia

GENERAL INFO Cat. A IT048

Season 1

485 €

Season 2 supplement

30 €

SGL supplement

110 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

50 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

110 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Vicenza

DBL SGL

from 55 € from 85 €

Mestre

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Venice ¹

DBL SGL

from 90 € from 150 €

0 km

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA, SU 7.05 - 25.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 7.05 - 27.05 and 12.09 - 25.09.2016 Season 2: 28.05 - 11.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 4 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 8 €).

G I

90%

3 - 5 years

50%

6 - 8 years

30%

I B E O L O

Children 0 - 2 years

· · · · ·

70 €

G

150

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

185

245

295

5. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 150 km - Total vertical up: 350 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3.

The itinerary is completely in the lowlands except for the 1 km slope in Asolo.

You ride on secondary streets with low traffic or paved bike paths.

BY PLANE

Vicenza is well connected (60–90 min.) with the following airports: Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Treviso (TPS), Bergamo (BGY-150 min).

GIROLIBERO GREENS

R E E N S

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* Hotels. ¹ on request 4. night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre.

38

105

1. Vicenza. Individual arrival. A nice and cosy historical city centre characterized by the buildings of the famous architect Andrea Palladio (16th century).

2. Vicenza–Bassano del Grappa (40 km). From Vicenza you cycle towards Marostica, famous for its castle and the chessboard in the main square.

The last stop is Bassano del Grappa with its covered wooden bridge and the “grappa”.

3. Bassano del Grappa–Treviso (65/40 km). You enter Asolo, which presents us the only real uphill section of our ride. The downhill run takes you to the land of Prosecco vineyards and on to Maser. Possibility to shorten the stage of 25 km by taking the train from Montebelluna to Treviso with a change in Castelfranco.

4. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km).

Leaving Treviso behind you, follow the course of the River Sile up to Casale.

At the end of the trip Venice awaits you for an evening among canals and narrow streets. Accommodation in Mestre; a supplement applies for lodging in Venice.

R

Adults

40

R

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

0m

DAY BY DAY MARE ADRIATICO

Ferrara

Webcode

EXTRA NIGHTS

Mestre

Chioggia

Po

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

e

le

Vicenza

200 m

av

Si

Lago di Garda

Pi

Vicenza

Montebelluna

· · · · ·

Asolo

Padova

Bassano del Grappa Marostica

Bassano

Vicenza

Venice lands short break From Vicenza to Venice

Chioggia

Villa Barbaro in Maser (Treviso) River Sile Natural Park Baccalà Mantecato, mousse of dried salt cod Torcolato, dessert white wine

| 150 km | 5 Days/4 Nights | short break

|

Mestre

|

Italy

Treviso

Bike & Hotel

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

Italy

Treviso

ta en Br cch

igl

Peschiera

ion

e

Padova

I Ad ig

e

PRICE PER PERSON

Venezia

Stra Laguna di Venezia

MARE ADRIATICO

GENERAL INFO Ferrara

IT016

Season 1

440 €

SGL supplement

110 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

50 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

110 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Mestre

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Venice ¹

DBL SGL

from 90 € from 150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

90%

3 - 5 years

50%

6 - 8 years

30%

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Ferry-boat transfers on day 5 (altogether about 25 € per person + bike), local taxes (approx. 8 €).

R

G

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* Hotels. ¹ on request 4th night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre

I B E O L O

Children 0 - 2 years

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 4 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

105

1. Mestre. Individual arrival.

2. Mestre–Chioggia (35 km). Leaving Mestre this morning, you head into Venice pedalling on the 4 km bridge “della Libertà”, then to Tronchetto harbour. From here you take a ferry along the canal Giudecca to Lido. This is the most exciting day, pedalling on two narrow islands that divide the sea from the lagoon: Malamocco and the island of Pellestrina.

3. Chioggia–Padova (60 km). You will be pedalling along the two rivers that carried trade in and out of Venice in this area centuries ago: Bacchiglione and Brenta. You continue on to Stra, famous for the majestic Villa Pisani. On arrival in Padova, you will find the great basilica dedicated to St. Anthony, the historic Caffè Pedrocchi and Prato della Valle.

4. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km).

This stages lets you cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility until you reach Mestre. You can choose to stay directly in Venice with a price supplement.

R

70 €

SEASONS Season 1: 31.05 - 13.09.2016

40

DAY BY DAY

· · · · ·

Adults

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR TU, WE 31.05 - 13.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

0 km

G I

Cat. A

Webcode

EXTRA NIGHTS

Mestre

Padova

Stra

Mestre

0m

Mestre

Chioggia

Po

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

200 m

· · · · ·

Ba

Verona

e

le

Vicenza

av

Si

Lago di Garda

Pi

Bassano

Vicenza

Venice Lands short break Venice Lagoon round tour

Chioggia

Villa Pisani in Stra, along Brenta river The venetian lagoon and its birdlife Sarde in saor, fresh sardines and onions from Adratic Sea Merlot, red wine

| 135 km | 5 Days/4 Nights | short break

|

Treviso

|

Bike & Hotel

150

185

215

245

295

5. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 135 km - Total vertical up: 0 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day The itinerary is completely in the lowlands. You ride on secondary streets with low traffic or paved bike paths.

BY PLANE

Mestre is well connected (60–90 min.) with the following airports: Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Treviso (TPS), Bergamo (BGY-150 min).

GIROLIBERO GREENS

R E E N S

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

39

Bike & Hotel

|

|

|

Italy

| 280 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

0 km

70

120

Mestre

Padova

Vicenza

Verona

Peschiera

120 145

180

215

255

305

345

Bassano Treviso

Soave San Bonifacio Adig e

DAY BY DAY

Padova

Venezia

MARE ADRIATICO

Chioggia

R

I B E O L R O

4. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona (60/35 km). Today you head to Verona.

With the Adige crossing it, this is one of the most important and beautiful cities in the Veneto region. Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House.

5. Verona–Vicenza (75/40 km). At first, the route starts out flat and then heads through the Monti Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza, with a wonderful view of the city. The old city centre is characterized by the beautiful private palaces and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th century architect known all over the world. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in San Bonifacio.

6. Vicenza–Padova (50 km). Cycling out of Vicenza you will come across the beautiful Palladian Villa Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, the route will continue to the fascinating city of Pa-

· · · · ·

1. Bolzano. Arrival. Bolzano is a famous commercial and tourist centre and also a historical and cultural connection between the Italian and the German world.

2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km).

Today you will ride mostly along the Adige River, through orchards and vineyards passing the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. The dam pathways lead then to Trento. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.

3. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). Always pedalling along the Adige you reach Rovereto and Mori. From here westwards towards Lake Garda. After a short ascent, a refreshing descent will follow and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake.

Abano

dova with its famous Giotto’s Chapel and one of the biggest squares of Europe “Prato della Valle”.

7. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km).

The tour continues easily through the flat Veneto. You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcontenta, Villa Widmann) until you reach Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can choose to stay directly in Venice with a price supplement.

G

· · · · ·

Mestre

G I

ta

Vicenza Verona

en

Br

Lago di Garda

40

Trento

0m

Rovereto

Peschiera

San Bonifacio

Ad ig

200 m

Riva del Garda

Desenzano

Desenzano

400 m

Salorno/Salurn Trento

I

Bolzano/Bozen

Bolzano/Bozen

e

Lago di Caldaro

Riva Del Garda

Bolzano–Verona–Venice From the Dolomites to the Adriatic

GIROLIBERO GREENS

R E E N S

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

8. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast. Transfer back to Bolzano on request when booking the tour.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27), Venice–Porecˇ (p. 50).

Italy

Bike & Hotel

Verona and the Arena Dolomites and the iconic pink peaks, a world natural heritage Olive oil from Garda lake Recioto, dessert red wine

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 280/345 km - Total vertical up: 1,270/1,450 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2 and 5.

PRICE PER PERSON SELF-GUIDED TOUR

GENERAL INFORMATIONS Cat. A

Webcode

Cat. B IT001

Season 1

690 €

590 €

Season 2 supplement

48 €

48 €

Season 3 supplement

88 €

78 €

As a whole it is an easy to manage itinerary, riding on secondary streets with low traffic or paved bike paths.

There are light hilly bits with short uphill sections.

SGL supplement

198 €

145 €

Half Board ¹

170 €

-

BY PLANE

Basic price

995 €

-

SGL supplement

198 €

-

Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) with the following airports: Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

GUIDED TOUR Webcode

IT049

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Bolzano

DBL/SGL

Mestre

DBL/SGL

Venice ²

DBL/SGL

Cat. B

65/85 € 65/85 €

55/65 €

from 90/150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Adults

130 €

100 €

Children 0 - 2 years

90%

3 - 5 years

50%

6 - 8 years

30%

Cat.A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels.

Cat. B mainly 3* hotels, with some 2* hotels. ¹ 6 dinners included, beverages not included (3-course meal); ² on request 7th night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA, SU 26.03 - 22.10.2016 TU, WE 17.05 - 7.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 26.03 - 17.04 and 1.10 - 22.10.2016 Season 2: 18.04 - 24.06 and 10.09 - 30.09.2016 Season 3: 25.06 - 9.09.2016 GUIDED TOUR 30.04, 14.05, 18.06, 9.07, 17.09.2016 Minimum of participants: 8 persons.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, 7-days Hotline service, entrance into Villa Valmarana ai Nani, ice-cream in the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza.

Guided tour includes also: Cat. A Hotel accommodation, 7 dinners (3-course meals, 1 in Venice), guide on bike, support van in the area, wine tasting, guided visits of Verona and Venice.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

Train transfers.

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 60 € Mestre–Bolzano (bike included).

Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days on request). Also possible on Tuesday and Wednesday from 24.05 to 14.09.2016

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

41

Bike & Hotel

|

|

Italy

| 275 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

500 m

Riva del Garda

Padova

Mincio

DAY BY DAY VARIATION 1

1. Bolzano. Arrival.

2. Resia Pass–Silandro (50 km). We will drive you to Resia up to 1500 metres of height, where your cycling tour starts.

The majestic cycle lane will take you past the lake Resia and the closter of Montemaria near Silandro.

3. Silandro–Merano (40 km). The tour continues along the Adige, passing through orchards and nice landmarks like the imposing Castle Dornsberg. You arrive in the beautiful city of Merano.

4. Merano–Bolzano (35 Km). Still cycling along the cycle lane you reach little towns like Nalles and Andriano and your destination, Bolzano. Take your time for a walk around the capital of the South Tyrol.

5. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 Km). Cycling along the lane you follow the Adige beside apple orchards, vineyards and

Po

85

120

VARIATION 2 ta

Verona

50

Mantova

Verona

Peschiera

Desenzano

Trento 190

240

240 265

300

310

Treviso

Vicenza

Mantova

42

Rovereto

en

Peschiera del Garda

0m 0 km

Trento

Br

Lago di Garda Desenzano

Riva Del Garda

1000 m

Bolzano/Bozen

1500 m

Bolzano/Bozen

Ad ig

Silandro/Schlanders Lago di Caldaro I

Merano

Merano/Meran

Passo Resia

Passo Resia/Reschenpass

e

A

Silandro/Schlanders

River Adige Cycle Route Resia Pass to Verona/Mantua

Venezia MAR ADRIATICO Chioggia

7. Desenzano/Peschiera–Mantua (70/45 km). Today you will follow one of the most famous Italian cycle paths, passing through the villages of Borghetto and Valeggio sul Mincio. The trip ends in Mantua, wonderful art city.

through the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. Along the river banks you ride towards Trento.

Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.

6. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). You’ll reach the Lake Garda. Before leaving for Riva, don’t miss the sight of the lake from above! The ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake. The boat excursion alone makes the whole trip worthwhile.

7. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona (60/35 km). Today you head to Verona, one of the most important and beautiful cities of Italy.

8. Verona. Departure after breakfast.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Mantua–Venice/Venice–Mantua (pp. 26-27), Veneto (p. 36).

Italy

Bike & Hotel

Resia and its old campanile in the lake Adige River, the second longest river of Italy Speck, smoked pork from South Tyrol Müller Thurgau, white wine

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 275/315 km - Total vertical up: 830/1,040 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: every day except day 7.

Mainly along flat roads with only a few rolling parts. The region of South Tyrol is provided with an excellently-built cycle-lanes system. You can ride almost exclusively on well-planned, traffic-free cycle lanes, part of which run along the Adige banks.

Towards Lake Garda there is a bit more challenging climb to face.

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFORMATIONS

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Variation

1

2

Webcode

IT015

IT002

Season 1

682 €

Season 2 supplement

50 €

SGL supplement

198 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

BY PLANE

Bolzano is very well connected to the following airports (90–120 min): Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

Cat. A

Bolzano

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

Verona

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

Mantua

DBL/SGL

45/75 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 7.05 - 17.09.2016 SU 26.06 - 21.08.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 7.05 - 24.06 and 03.09 - 17.09.2016 Season 2: 25.06 - 2.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, transfer from Bolzano to Resia Pass, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €) TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 60 € Mantua/Verona–Bolzano (bike included, min. 4 persons).

Available on Saturday (other days only on request).

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room) Adults

130 €

Children 0 - 2 years

90%

3 - 5 years

50%

6 - 8 years

30%

Cat. A 3/4* hotels with a cozy and typical guesthouse in Silandro.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

43

400 m

Salorno/Salurn

Mestre

Padova

Vicenza

0m

Riva del Garda

0 km

Rovereto

70

120

120 145

180

215

255

305

345

Bassano Treviso

25 €

SGL supplement

115 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

50 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

110 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Bolzano

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

Verona

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

90%

3 - 5 years

50%

6 - 8 years

30%

R

I B E O L O

Children 0 - 2 years

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 8 €).

Train transfers.

R

70 €

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 4 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, 7-days Hotline service.

· · · · ·

Adults

SEASONS Season 1: 14.05 - 24.06.2016 Season 2: 25.06 - 6.09.2016

G

R E E N S

GIROLIBERO GREENS MAPS CYCLING

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

Street maps of Bolzano, Trento, Rovereto, Desenza no, Verona and cycle Peschiera, maps

L I B E R

eron a

O L I B E

Short

R E N S E

O L I B IR

break

G · · · · ·

R

RO

G R E E N

R

G

E

·

tips,

· · · · ·

O

O

and dining y, wining Sights, histor l information usefu

R

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

GUIDE

From Bolzano to Verona lzano Bolz From Bo na ano ro Ve V to

· · · ·

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Bolzano is very well connected to the following airports (90–120 min): Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

O

Cat.A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels.

BY PLANE

G

Season 2 supplement

· · ·

485 €

E E N S ·

·

Season 1

I

IT018

It is generally an easy route that runs on quiet sideroads and secure cycle lanes.

Some hilly sections on day 2 and day 3.

G

Webcode

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA, SU, TU 14.05 - 6.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

· · · ·

Cat. A

·

Chioggia

· · · · ·

MARE ADRIATICO

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

EXTRA NIGHTS

Venezia

S

PRICE PER PERSON

Padova Abano

- Total length: 150/180 km - Total vertical up: 550 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2 and day 3.

G I R

San Bonifacio Adig e

ROUTE PROFILE

1. Bolzano. Arrival. Bolzano is a famous commercial and tourist centre and also a historical and cultural connection between the Italian and the German world.

2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km).

Today you will ride mostly along the Adige River, through orchards and vineyards. The dam pathways lead then to Trento. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.

3. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). Always pedalling along the Adige you reach Rovereto and Mori. From here westwards towards Lake Garda. After a short ascent, a refreshing descent will follow and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake.

4. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona (60/35 km). Today you head to Verona, one of the most important and beautiful cities in the Veneto region.

5. Verona. Departure after breakfast

· · · · ·

Peschiera

Mestre

Soave

DAY BY DAY

G I

Verona

Desenzano

ta

Vicenza

en

Br

Lago di Garda

44

Verona

200 m

Trento

I

Trento

Bolzano/Bozen

San Bonifacio

Ad ige

Lago di Caldaro

Bolzano/Bozen

River Adige Cycle Route Short Break Bolzano to Verona

Peschiera

MART, Museum of Modern Art in Rovereto Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy Polenta and mushrooms, the main dish of Trentino Bardolino, white wine

| 150 km | 5 Days/4 Nights | short break

|

Desenzano

|

Italy

Riva Del Garda

Bike & Hotel

ROAD

BOOK

Italy

1000 m

Bolzano

Silandro

500 m

Lago di Caldaro

120

190

240

Mantova

Verona

Merano

Peschiera

240 265

300

310

110 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

50 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

110 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A 65 € 85 €

3 - 5 years

50%

R E E N S

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

GUIDE

ROAD

From Passo Resia to Bolzano From Pa to Bo sso Resia lzan o

sso Resia From Pa no to Bolza

BOOK

Street map of

and dining y, wining Sights, histor l information usefu

O

L I B E R

R

G

O L I B E

How eve nearer ry meter brin your destina gs you tion

R E N S E

O L I B IR

G · · · · ·

R

RO

G R E E N

Bolzano, Silandro , Merano and cycle maps

E

·

tips,

· · · · ·

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

MAPS CYCLING

· · · ·

Cat. A 3/4* hotels with a cozy and typical guesthouse in Silandro.

GIROLIBERO GREENS

O

30%

Bolzano is very well connected to the following airports (90–120 min): Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

O

90%

G

BY PLANE

R

Children 0 - 2 years

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 8 €)

I B E O L O

70 €

R

R

Adults

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 4 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, transfer from Bolzano to Resia Pass, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

· · · · ·

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

SEASONS Season 1: 7.05 - 24.06 and 03.09 - 17.09.2016 Season 2: 25.06 - 2.09.2016

· · ·

SGL supplement

G

30 €

E E N S ·

·

Season 2 supplement

I

425 €

G

Season 1

· · · ·

IT030

·

Webcode

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 7.05 - 17.09.2016 SU 26.06 - 21.08.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

Mainly along flat roads with only a few rolling parts. The region of South Tyrol is provided with an excellently-built cyclelanes system. You can ride almost exclusively on well-planned, traffic-free cycle lanes, part of which run along the Adige banks.

G I R

Cat. A

DBL SGL

MAR ADRIATICO

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

EXTRA NIGHTS

Venezia

· · · · ·

PRICE PER PERSON

ta

en

Br Padova

- Total length: 125 km - Total vertical up: 200 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: every day

S

Vicenza Verona

ROUTE PROFILE

1. Bolzano. Arrival.

2. Resia Pass–Silandro (50 km). We will drive you to Resia up to 1500 metres of height, where your cycling tour starts.

The majestic cycle lane will take you past the lake Resia and the closter of Montemaria near Silandro.

3. Silandro–Merano (40 km). The tour continues along the Adige, passing through orchards and nice landmarks like the imposing Castle Dornsberg. You arrive in the beautiful city of Merano.

4. Merano–Bolzano (35 Km) Still cycling along the cycle lane you reach little towns like Nalles and Andriano and your destination, Bolzano. Take your time for a walk around the capital of the South Tyrol.

5. Bolzano. Departure after breakfast

· · · · ·

Lago di Garda

6 - 8 years

85

DAY BY DAY

G I

Trento

Bolzano

50

Ad ig

e

I

0m 0 km

Desenzano

1500 m

Bolzano/Bozen

Merano

Passo Resia

Passo Resia

A

Silandro/Schlanders

River Adige Cycle Route Short Break Resia Pass to Bolzano

Riva Del Garda

Merano, elegant SPA town Vineyards of Adige valley Kaminwurzen, smoked dry sausages Beers of South Tyrol’s breweries

| 125 km | 5 Days/4 Nights | short break

|

Trento

|

Bike & Hotel

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

45

Vipiteno/Sterzing

Isa

1200 m

rc

CH

o

800 m

Bressanone/Brixen

400 m

Bolzano/Bozen

Ad ig

e

Lago di Caldaro

0m 0 km

I

e Ad ig Mincio

Mestre Padova

San Bonifacio Abano

Cat. A

Variation

1

2

Webcode

IT032

IT027

Season 1

635 €

930 €

Season 2 supplement

50 €

75 €

SGL supplement

170 €

245 €

BICYCLE RENT

Helmet

70 €

95 €

160 €

215 €

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Innsbruck

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

Verona

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

Mestre

DBL/SGL

65/85 €

Venice ¹

DBL/SGL

from 90/150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

110 €

170 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels. ¹ on request 9th night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

46

Venezia

MARE ADRIATICO

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

ta

en

Soave

PRICE PER PERSON

Girolibero bike

Treviso

Br

Peschiera

Bassano

Vicenza

Verona

170

220

DAY BY DAY VARIATION 1

Rovereto

Desenzano

100

220

245

280

405

Mestre

Padova

Vicenza 355

445

Salorno/Salurn Trento

Riva del Garda Lago di Garda

55

Verona

A

Peschiera

Brennero/Brenner

Brennero/Brenner

Innsbruck

Bressanone/Brixen

Innsbruck to Verona/Venice From the Alps to the Adriatic

Desenzano

Innsbruck city centre and the “Golden Roof ” Tyrol mountains and meadows Sarde in saor, fresh sardines and onions from Adriatic Sea Silvaner, white wine

| 250 km | 7 Days/6 Nights or 10 Days/9 Nights

Riva del Garda

|

Trento

|

Italy

Bolzano/Bozen

Bike & Hotel

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR TH, FR 5.05 - 23.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 5.05 - 22.06 and 8.09 - 23.09.2016 Season 2: 23.06 - 07.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6/9 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, transfer from Innsbruck to Brennero, route descriptions & maps, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx 10-15 €).

Train transfers.

1. Innsbruck. Arrival.

2. Innsbruck–Bressanone (55 km by bike + 40 km transfer). A private transfer takes you to Brennero, where you start cycling into the green Isarco valley. Your ride continues without difficulties through nice villages and green meadows till Fortezza, where you will see the ancient fort. Lake Varna awaits you for a relaxing break before Bressanone.

3. Bressanone–Bolzano (45 km).

Continue along the same cycle path, with few kms today: you’ll have the opportunity to visit the huge Sabiona medieval monastery, built on a rocky-hill and dominating the Isarco-valley.

4. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km).

You will ride along the Adige River, through orchards and vineyards, passing the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno.

The dam pathways lead then to Trento.

5. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). Pedaling along the Adige you reach Rovereto and Mori.

After a short ascent, a refreshing descent will lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake.

6. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona (60/35 km). Today you head to Verona.

Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House.

7. Verona. Departure.

VARIATION 2

7. Verona–Vicenza (75/40 km). At first, the route starts out flat and then heads through the Monti Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza. The old city centre is characterized by the beautiful private

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

palaces and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th century architect. The ones who consider this stage too long can take a train in San Bonifacio.

8. Vicenza–Padova (50 km).

Today you will come across the beautiful Palladian Villa Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, the route will continue to the fascinating city of Padova with its famous Giotto’s Chapel and one of the biggest squares of Europe “Prato della Valle”.

9. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km).

You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility until you reach Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can choose to stay directly in Venice with a price supplement.

10. Mestre/Venice. Departure.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 250/390 km - Total vertical up: 1,860/2,410 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3, 4 and 7.

The itinerary is mainly on one of the most beautiful cycle path in Italy. Continuing from Lake Garda to Venice the itinerary is developed riding on secondary streets with low traffic.

BY PLANE

Innsbruck (INN) or good connections with the following airports (100–120 min.): Munich (MUC), Salzburg (SZG).

Italy

Mestre

Padova

Vicenza

Peschiera

Desenzano

Lake Garda to Venice Highlights of the Venice Lands

Soave

The countryside villas of the ancient venetian nobility Vineyards of Verona and Soave Risotto, a creamy rice dish Gambellara, white wine

| 205 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Illasi

|

Verona

|

Bike & Hotel

200m 100m 0m 0 km

I

60

90 100

140

190

230

Treviso

Peschiera

Illasi

Mestre

Soave

Padova

San Bonifacio Adig e

PRICE PER PERSON SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Cat. B

IT039

Season 1

625 €

525 €

Season 2 supplement

40 €

40 €

SGL supplement

170 €

125 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Peschiera/ Desenzano

DBL SGL

Mestre

DBL SGL

Venice 1

DBL SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Venezia

MARE ADRIATICO

GENERAL INFO

Webcode

EXTRA NIGHTS

DAY BY DAY

ta

Vicenza Verona

en

Br

Lago di Garda Desenzano

35

Cat. B

from 55 € from 80 € 65 € 85 €

55 € 65 €

from 90 € from 150 € 130 €

100 €

Cat. A mainly 3* hotels with some 4* hotels; Cat. B mainly 3* hotels, with some 2* hotels.

1 on request 6th night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR MO, TU 18.04 - 20.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 18.04 - 26.06 and 7.09 - 20.09.2016 Season 2: 27.06 - 6.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-day service hotline.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

1. Desenzano/Peschiera. Arrival.

2. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona (60/35 km). Today you head to Verona.

With the Adige crossing it, this is one of the most important and beautiful cities in the Veneto region. Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House.

3. Verona-Ilasi/Soave (30/40 km).

The stage is flat and relaxing, crossing beautiful vineyards and the countryside.

Your cycle route will join the “Strada del Vino” (wine road) that leads to Illasi/ Soave, a very famous area full of vineyards and nice medieval sights.

4. Illasi/Soave–Vicenza (50/40 km).

At first, the route starts out flat and then heads through the Colli Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza, with a wonderful view of the city. The old city centre is characterized by the beautiful private palaces and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th century architect known all over the world.

5. Vicenza–Padova (50 km).

Cycling out of Vicenza you will come across the beautiful Palladian Villa Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, the route will continue to the fascinating city of Padova with its famous Giotto’s Chapel and one of the biggest squares of Europe “Prato della Valle”.

6. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km).

The tour continues easily through the flat Veneto. You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcontenta, Villa Widmann) until you reach Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can choose to stay directly in Venice with a price supplement.

7. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 205/ 230 km - Total vertical up: 650/800 m - Terrain: 95 % asphalt, 5 % unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 5, 6 - Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train: day 4 As a whole it is an easy to manage itinerary, riding on secondary streets with low traffic or paved bike paths.

There are light hilly bits with short uphill sections.

BY PLANE

Peschiera and Desenzano are very well connected to the following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice (VCE), Bergamo (BGY).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

47

600 m 300 m

Borgo Valsugana

Trento Laghi Levico di Caldonazzo e Levico

0 km

e

gli

le

ta

Adi g

hi

Si

en

Padova

Ba

cc

Mestre Venezia

on

e

MARE ADRIATICO

Chioggia

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 7.05 - 10.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

Cat. A Cat. B

Webcode

IT013

Season 1

710 €

628 €

Season 2 supplement

50 €

50 €

SGL supplement

198 €

145 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

Mestre

DBL SGL

Venice

DBL SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Cat. A Cat. B 65 € 85 € 65 € 85 €

55 € 65 €

from 90 € from 150 € 130 €

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels; Cat. B mainly 3* hotels, with some 2* hotels.

48

70

150

DAY BY DAY

Br

Verona

DBL SGL

70

190

240

300

335

Treviso Vicenza

Bolzano

Mestre

0m

Bassano del Grappa

Lago di Garda

EXTRA NIGHTS

Lago di Levico

Ad ige I

Salorno/Salurn

Trento

Bolzano/Bozen Lago di Caldaro

Bolzano/Bozen

Bolzano–Bassano–Venice Treasures of Brenta Valley and Lagoon

Chioggia

Bassano and the famous wooden bridge The Venetian lagoon and its birdlife Sopressa, typical salami of Veneto region Grappa, the King of Italian spirits

| 310 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Padova

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Vicenza

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Italy

Bassano del Grappa

Bike & Hotel

100 €

SEASONS Season 1: 7.05 - 24.06 and 3.09 10.09.2016 Season 2: 25.06- 2.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

Train journey from Trento to Lake area (approx. 40 minutes, 6 € per person) on day 3. Ferry-boat transfers on day 7 (altogether about 25 € per person).

Train journey from Venice to Mestre on day 7 (approx. 15 minutes, 2,5 € per person) TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour: 60 € Mestre-Bolzano (bike included). Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

1. Bolzano. Arrival. The bilingual capital city of South Tyrol is a renowned commercial and tourist centre.

2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km).

Your cycling tour starts with a ride along the banks of the Adige river, past fruit orchards, vineyards and through the town of Ora, Egna and Salorno. Along the embankments you ride towards Trento. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.

3. Trento–Bassano del Grappa (20/35 km by train + 75/60 km by bike).

The whole stage schedules 95 km. We suggest to shorten it of minimum 20 km by taking a train from Trento to the lakes area, avoiding the only uphill section.

Starting from the spring of the lakes Caldonazzo and Levico, you will follow the river Brenta up to Bassano del Grappa, which offers you its famous wooden-roofed bridge and a wonderful historical centre. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.

4. Bassano–Vicenza (40 km). After a few kilometres you reach the little fortified town of Marostica, famous for its castle and the stone chessboard on its main square. At the end of this stage Vicenza awaits you: this is the famous city of the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, who built plenty of extraordinary buildings.

5. Vicenza–Padova (50 km). You leave Vicenza and ride past the splendid “Villa Rotonda” by Palladio. Through the village of Costozza and then cycling along the river Bacchiglione you arrive at the ancient university city of Padova.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Here you will be astonished by the exceptional abundance of architectural masterpieces.

6. Padova–Chioggia (60 km).

From Padova you cycle along canals.

The rivers Bacchiglione and Brenta, which were once important commercial waterways, accompany you to the picturesque fishing village Chioggia, in the Venetian lagoon.

7. Chioggia–Mestre (35 km). Across the islands of Pellestrina and Lido, which separate the open sea from the Venetian lagoon, you reach the stately, beautiful Venice. After a nice long stroll in the city’s fascinating maze of lanes and bridges you will reach Mestre by train.

8. Mestre. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27), Venice–Porecˇ (p. 50).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 310/350 km - Total vertical up: 410/1,010 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2 and day 3.

It is generally an easy route that runs on quiet sideroads and secure cycle lanes.

Some hilly sections on day 2 and day 3.

BY PLANE

Bolzano is very well connected to the following airports (90–120 min): Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

Italy

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Bolzano/Bozen

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Calalzo

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Belluno

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Treviso

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Verona

Mestre Venezia

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MARE ADRIATICO

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT014

Season 1

655 €

Season 2 supplement

55 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SU 1.05 - 17.07 and 21.08 - 25.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SGL supplement

180 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Bolzano

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Mestre

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Venice ¹

DBL SGL

from 90 € from 150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

90 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels. ¹ on request 7th night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

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Lago di Garda

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SEASONS Season 1: 1.05 - 25.06 and 5.09 - 25.09.2016 Season 2: 26.06 - 17.07 and 21.08 - 4.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, private transfer Bolzano–Brunico, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

Train transfer from Calalzo to Belluno (approx. 50 min, 8 € per person).

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 60 € Mestre-Bolzano (bike included).

Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

1. Bolzano. Arrival.

2. Bolzano–Brunico–Dobbiaco (30 km). In the morning a private transfer brings you to Brunico, a lively town with a historical centre and rural surroundings. The route is on a slightly uphill bike path along the river Rienz, that leads to Dobbiaco, close to the Austrian border.

3. Dobbiaco–Cortina (35 km). Today you take the cycle path along the Landro valley from where you admire the famous Three Peaks of Lavaredo. Going downhill you reach Cortina d’Ampezzo, a famous Ski and Mountainsport Resort, with a very elegant and lively centre, where you can go shopping.

4. Cortina–Belluno (40 km by bike + 40 km by train). Today you pedal slightly downhill along the old railway route until you reach San Vito and then Calalzo. The landscape is very relaxing here: you cycle through the Cadore woods, then stop in the small village of Pieve, where you can see the birth house of the painter Titian. Train transfer from Calalzo to Belluno.

5. Belluno–Valdobbiadene (60 km).

From Belluno you pedal along a slightly hilly Toscana-like landscape. You reach then Valdobbiadene, in the heart of the famous land of Prosecco, with its more than 4500 mq of vineyards. If you like to go for a wine tasting, today is your day!

6. Valdobbiadene–Treviso (65 km).

From Valdobbiadene you cycle southwards until you cross the Piave river and enter the Po valley. You will cycle next to one of the most important Palladian Villas, the Villa Barbaro in Maser. From here on to Treviso, a city surrounded by water.

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Treviso

Cortina d’Ampezzo

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Brunico/Bruneck

Brunico/Bruneck CH

Dobbiaco/Toblach

Bolzano–Cortina–Venice From the Dolomites to the Adriatic

Valdobbiadene

Cortina, the famous elegant mountain resort Dolomites and the Three Peaks of Lavaredo Cheeses of the mountains Prosecco, white wine

| 275 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Belluno

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Calalzo

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Bike & Hotel

275

7. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km).

Leaving Treviso behind you, follow the course of the river Sile up to Casale.

Here you’ll be surprised by the “Cimitero dei Burci”, a “graveyard” of old cargo boats, abandoned along the river since the Sixties, to protest against the rise of wheel transport. At the end of the trip Venice awaits you for an evening among canals and narrow streets. Accommodation in Mestre; a supplement applies for lodging in Venice.

8. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27), Venice–Porecˇ (p. 50).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 275 km - Total vertical up: 2,010 m - Terrain: 87% asphalt, 13% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2 and day 7 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, day 5 and day 6.

You will ride on back-roads with low traffic or for short stretches on unpaved paths in good condition. Mostly in the lowlands with some hilly sections.

BY PLANE

Bolzano is very well connected to the following airports (90–120 min): Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Bike & Hotel

Italy, Slovenia, Croatia

© Marco Milani

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| 320 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Portorož

Porecˇ

Aquileia

Caorle

Jesolo

Trieste

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MAPS CYCLING

From Venice to Porecˇ From V to Po enice recˇ

Street maps of Caorle, Portogru Mestre, Venice, Lido di Jesolo, aro, Palmano Trieste, Piran, va, Portorož, Porec Aquileia, Grado, ˇ and cycle maps dining tips,

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For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

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Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

GIROLIBERO GREENS

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where extensive fish farming is practised) and “casoni” (constructions used by fishermen in the past during the fishing season). Afterwards you will go to the town of Portogruaro, one of the main centres in the period of the “Serenissima Republic of Venice”, which is still impressive even today with its glorious “Palazzi” or “palaces”.

4. Portogruaro–Palmanova/Aquileia (60/70 km). The trip can be shortened of 20 km by taking a train from Portogruaro to Latisana. You will spend the day between the region of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, passing through an area abundant in water and history, among rivers, canals and ancient Roman towns.

Your destination will be Aquileia, with its Roman excavations, or Palmanova, named “the starry city” because from above the town resembles a 9-pointed star.

5. Palmanova/Aquileia–Trieste (70/50 km). The trip can be shortened of 30 km

regards attractions and history.

6. Trieste– Piran/Portorož (45 km).

After a few kilometres you will cross over into Slovenia, often cycling along cycle paths through famous holiday resorts such as Koper, first for a long period a Venetian and then Austrian town, and Piran, another important town which was ruled over for a long time by Venice. You then finally arrive in Portorož, a town renowned for its spa and bathing facilities.

7. Piran/ Portorož–Porecˇ (55 km).

Cycling southwards, you will pass

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by taking a train at the end of the stage from Monfalcone to Trieste.

You will once again head towards the sea: the gulf of Trieste awaits you, with many possible stops along the way, such as Duino with its two castles, Sistiana with its characteristic bay and Miramare with its famous white castle built according to the wishes of Maximilan of Augsburg, situated in a beautiful park of more than 20 hectares in size. Just a few kilometres lie between you and Trieste, the ancient port of the Asburgic Empire, which has much to offer as

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1. Mestre/Venice. Individual arrival in Mestre (the mainland of Venice). The city of Venice will captivate you with its splendour, acknowledged worldwide.

2. Mestre–Jesolo/Caorle/seacoast (40/65 km). After a few kilometres by bike, you take the ferry and then the vaporetto, passing in front of Piazza San Marco. Then you will reach Punta Sabbioni, the furthest south area of the Adriatic coast, which is north of Venice.

From here you cycle along the stunning seacoast, with various opportunities for a refreshing bath in the sea. The overnight will be in one of the places along this famous coastline.

3. Jesolo/Caorle/seacoast–Portogruaro (65/40 km). Leaving the sea behind you, you will head north towards the Julian Alps, leaving the sea behind you.

You will be passing through an area with a multitude of “Valli da pesca” (stretches of lagoon enclosed by earthen dikes

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Venice to Porecˇ The lands of the ancient Republic of Venice

ROAD

BOOK

Italy, Slovenia, Croatia

Bike & Hotel

Aquileia and the Roman excavations The Istrian coast and its beaches Fresh mussels, taste them in a variety of dishes Refosco, red wine

through the salt mines of Secovlje, a large Slovenian town with a humid environment, which is a key area as regards ornithology. Some kms later you will cross the Croatian border down along Istria, the Adriatic sea’s largest peninsula. In the end you will reach Porecˇ, the tourism capital of Croatia, with its Eufrasian Basilica, which was declared Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO in 1997.

8. Porecˇ. After breakfast, end of services. Return to Venice by boat (option).

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27) or Bolzano–Verona–Venice (p. 40).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 320/340 km - Total vertical up: 1,390 m - Terrain: 92% asphalt, 8% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: NO - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 4 and 5.

You will ride the first three stages along flat roads, across the Veneto and Friuli plain, and the last three on slightly hillier sections.

BY PLANE

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT004

Season 1

639 €

Season 2 supplement

70 €

SGL supplement

198 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Mestre

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Porecˇ

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Venice

DBL SGL

from 90 € from 150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

100 €

Cat. A 3* Hotels (sometimes a few 4* Hotels).

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.04 - 16.07 and 20.08 - 1.10.2016 SU 15.05 - 10.07.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Saison 1: 9.04 - 27.05 and 17.09 - 1.10.2016 Saison 2: 28.05 - 16.07 and 20.08 - 16.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 7-days Hotline service, ferry transfer on day 2 (bike not included, approx. 4 €). Except departure of 16.07, when the ferry boat transfer will be replaced by a private transfer.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

Train transfers: Portogruaro–Latisana (approx. 10 min, 6 € per person); Monfalcone–Trieste (approx. 25 min, 7 € per person).

FERRY BOAT TRANSFER To be confirmed when booking the tour: Transfer Porec-Venice by boat around 7-8 am (approx. 150 min.). Price 60-65 € per person (+10 € for own bikes), depending on the season.

Dates and definitive prices will be communicated at the beginning of 2016.

If the ferry boat is not available the service will be replaced by a private transfer.

The booking (complete with full names, passport number, nationality, date of birth) is compulsory when sending the reservation.

Venice is well connected with the following airports: Venice (VCE) Treviso (TSF), Verona (VRN), Trieste (TRS).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Verona

Venezia

Pomposa

100 m 0m

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Po Delta Loop

Desenzano

Treviso

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Ostellato

Lago di Garda

Peschiera

Lake Garda to the Adriatic Peschiera, Ferrara and the Po Delta

Ferrara loop

Comacchio, founded on 13 islets linked by bridges and canals Po Delta and the pink flamingos Parmigiano Reggiano cheese Lugana, white wine

| 310 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Ferrara

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Sermide

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Italy

Mantova

Bike & Hotel

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Ad ig

Mantova Po

S.Benedetto

MARE ADRIATICO

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Governolo Ostiglia

Sermide Stellata

Po Pomposa

Ferrara

PRICE PER PERSON Cat. A

Webcode

IT020

Season 1

628 €

SGL supplement

180 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Peschiera

DBL SGL

65 € 90 €

Po Delta area

DBL SGL

50 € 65 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

Cat. A 3/4* hotels.

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Mesola Comacchio

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

EXTRA NIGHTS

Ostellato

Delta del Po

100 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SU 10.04 - 17.07 and 21.08 - 2.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 10.04 - 17.07 and 21.08 - 2.10.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour Po Delta–Peschiera del Garda 290 € (1-4 persons) 350 € (5-8 persons)

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DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Desenzano/Peschiera del Garda.

2. Desenzano/Peschiera–Mantua (70/45 km). Cycle along Italy’s most famous cycleway towards Mantua. Along the way, you discover the settlements of Borghetto, with its iconic watermills and Valeggio, with its Parco Sigurtà, a green oasis spread across 600,000 sqm.

3. Mantua–Ostiglia/Sermide (45/65 km). Leaving Mantua along its lakes and the river Mincio, you arrive at the historic lock of Governolo and join Italy’s largest waterway: the majestic River Po. Carrying on along the Po cycleway, you arrive to the overnight stay in Ostiglia or Sermide.

4. Ostiglia/Sermide–Ferrara (65/45 km). You resume along the Po and arrive at Stellata with its starshaped Rocca Possente, an 11th century fortress. At Bondeno catch the scenic cycling path towards Ferarra, a city once ruled by the Este dynasty and a key city state of the Italian Renaissance.

5. Ferrara round tour (50 km). This day is dedicated to a nice round tour in the quiet countryside around Ferrara, considered the ‘bike capital’ of Italy, due to the large use of bicycles. You will visit the historic centre still surrounded by the original city walls.

6. Ferrara–Ostellato/Pomposa (40/70 km). Today’s stage offers the discovery of two of the Este family’s celebrated Delizie: Belriguardo and Verginese. Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, they both form part of the collection of country retreats and hunting lodges playfully known as “Delights” and are now listed as World Heritage Sites.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Overnight will be either in Ostellato or Pomposa, with its 9th century Abbey, a major centre of learning in the Dark Ages.

7. Po Delta round tour (65/70 km) For the last cycling stage you will complete a round tour. If the overnight is in Ostellato you will follow the cycleway to Comacchio, a small town in the heart of the lagoon, considered the Delta’s capital. Comacchio was founded on 13 islets linked by bridges and canals.

Pushing deeper into the lagoon, you explore its fishing farms, with their fishermen’s shacks and salt marshes. If your overnight is in Pomposa you will head towards the coast through the Mesola Forest Nature reserve. This is the core of Po Delta, home to over 300 species of birds.

8. Po Delta. Breakfast and end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 310/370 km - Total vertical up: 0 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2 The tour is completely on flat terrain and along cycling tracks – typically embankments and country paths – and occasional minor roads with low-level traffic.

Some stretches within the Po Delta Reserve are on rough (but unchallenging) tracks, although the tour is largely on tarmacked surfaces.

BY PLANE

Peschiera is very well connected to the following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice (VCE).

Italy

Bussolengo Peschiera

Desenzano

200 m

Verona Ad ig

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Laghi di Mantova

PRICE PER PERSON Cat. A

Webcode

IT024

Season 1

510 €

Season 2 supplement

80 €

SGL supplement

198 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Mantova

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Peschiera

DBL SGL

55 € 85 €

Verona

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

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Valeggio sul Mincio

Solferino

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR every day 11.04 - 26.09.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 11.04 - 22.05 and 12.09 - 26.09.2016 Season 2: 23.05 - 11.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, route description & maps, train tickets for Desenzano–Peschiera, Verona–Peschiera and Mantua–Peschiera as in the itinerary, 7-day service hotline.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 8 €).

Mantova Loop

Adi ge

Lago di Garda

Sirmione

Peschiera

Lake Garda Bike and relax around Peschiera

Verona Loop

Sirmione, ancient lakeside settlement Regional Nature Park of river Mincio Tortelli of Valeggio, hand-made fresh pasta filled with meat Bardolino, red wine

| 165 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Desenzano Loop

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Peschiera Loop

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Bike & Hotel

1. Arrival in Peschiera del Garda, a veritable fortress-city completely surrounded by water, an architectural jewel of art and culture.

2. Peschiera round tour (40 km).

First day on bike among fruit plantations and vineyards of the eminent still white wine Lugana, characteristic of this region. You arrive in Solferino, the site of the famous battle that ended the Italian Second War of Independence, providing the basis for a united Italy.

3. Peschiera del Garda–Desenzano del Garda (45 km). In search of another highly-valued place on the west bank of the lake, you will ride on to Desenzano where there will be a round tour on the sweet morainic hills. For the less athletic, the town offers various possibilities to spend several hours relaxing peacefully on the banks of the lake. Transfer by train from Desenzano to Peschiera for the overnight stay.

4. Peschiera del Garda. Day of rest and relax. Use the opportunity for a visit to the walled city and its lake. Alternatively excursion to Sirmione by public transportation.

5. Peschiera del Garda–Verona (45 km). Pedal towards Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, with the river Adige passing through it; this is one of the most beautiful cities in Veneto. Don’t miss the Roman Arena, the stunning Church of San Zeno and, naturally, Juliet’s House.

Transfer by train from Verona to Peschiera del Garda for the night.

6. Peschiera del Garda–Mantua (35 km). An evocative route which is suitable for everyone along one of the most famous and loved cycle paths of

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Italy. From Lake Garda to Mantua between the provinces of Verona and Mantua inside the Regional Nature Park of the river Mincio. Transfer by train from Mantua to Peschiera for the overnight stay.

7. Peschiera. Departure or possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 165 km - Total vertical up: 650 m - Terrain: 100% asphalt You will ride along routes which are on rural/secondary roads or cycle paths in the area of Garda Lake. The entrance to Verona has slightly more traffic but only for a short stretch.

BY PLANE

Peschiera is very well connected to the following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice (VCE).

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Puccini 3* (or equivalent if not available) About 500 meters from the old town centre on the Lake Garda side promenade. Gardaland amusement park is located just 2.5 Kms from the hotel. All rooms are very big, bright, well furnished with the most modern comforts. Free parking and big pool garden.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Padova

Mestre Venezia

Brenta

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Abano Praglia Terme

0 km

Luvigliano

LAGUNA DI VENEZIA

Montegrotto terme Arquà Petrarca

Chioggia

Monselice

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT025

Season 1

435 €

Season 2

40 €

SGL supplement

200 €

Half Board ¹

80 €

Half Board ²

140 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

¹ 6 dinners included (3-course meal), beverages not included; ² 3 dinners included (3-course meal), beverages not included.

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200 m

Abano Terme

Veneto thermal baths Padua and the green countryside

Brenta Canal

Padova city of art, home of Giotto’s frescoes Euganean Hills Regional Park Prosciutto di Montagnana, local ham aged at least 12 months Moscato, dessert white wine

| 160 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Praglia Loop

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Padua Loop

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Italy

Euganei Hills Loop

Bike & Hotel

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR every day 16.04 - 1.10.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 16.04 - 19.06 and 3.09 - 1.10.2016 Season 2: 20.06 - 2.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, route description and maps, swimming pool entrance, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (about 10 €).

Special treatments at the hotel Spa. Train transfer: Mestre–Terme Euganee (approx. 30 min, 9 € per person)

45

DAY BY DAY

1. Abano/Montegrotto. Arrival.

2. Euganean Hills (45 km). A delightful itinerary through the Natural Park of the Euganei hills and its wonderful sights.

You will stop will be in the gardens of Villa Barbarigo in Valsanzibio, one of the most important examples of the classical Italian garden and the medieval towns of Arquà Petrarca and Monselice.

3. Padua (35 km). A countryroad will take you to the unique Villa Emo Capodilista, now also a prestigious wine estate.

Following the Bacchiglione river you will come to Padua. Spend the afternoon discovering its wonders, such as the Scrovegni Chapel, frescoed by Giotto, and a Unesco World Heritage Site, the Basilica of St Anthony, the Prato della Valle square, Andrea Mantegna’s frescoes and the prestigious university founded in 1222.

4. Free day. You can use this day off to relax and enjoy a wellbeing package at the hotel, or you can simply spend the whole day at the pool. Alternatively, you can take a 45-minute train ride into Venice and discover its calli and canals.

For those who prefer cycling, the new 60-km cycle path around the Euganei hills is the ideal choice.

5. Brenta Canal (50 km + train).

Follow the Brenta canal, which was built to link Padua to the Venice lagoon. Three of the most stately buildings along the canal are the 18th century Villa Pisani in Stra, Villa Sceriman Widmann in Mira and Villa Foscari, also known as the Malcontenta, designed in 1559 by Andrea Palladio and now a Unesco site. The return journey is by train, from Mestre.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

80

110

160

6. Praglia–Villa dei Vescovi (30 km).

An easy itinerary takes you to the celebrated Benedictine abbey in Praglia, founded in the 11th century and now a centre of excellence for the restoration of antique books. The itinerary continues towards the majestic Villa dei Vescovi, designed in the 16th century. A few hours can be spent while visiting the interiors and enjoying a picnic in the gardens.

7. Abano/Montegrotto. Departure after breakfast.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 160 km - Total vertical up: 240 m - Terrain: 85% asphalt, 15% unpaved Simple itineraries totalling about 160 km, all relatively level except for the first, which includes very little difference in altitude. The routes are along safe cycle paths or roads with very little traffic.

BY PLANE

Abano and Montegrotto Terme are well connected (60-120 min.) with the following airports: Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Treviso (TSF) and Bologna (BLQ).

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Aqua 3* (or equivalent if not available) Enjoy pretty views of the Euganean Hills, the modern rooms and the 2 thermal pools, opened until late.

By the outdoor pool you will find sun umbrellas and loungers. Indoors you will find a solarium, saunas and a beauty centre.

Italy

Merano, sophisticated spa town Lake Caldaro and the vineyard landscape Apricot dumplings, typical dessert of Venosta Valley Schiava, red wine

1400 m 1000 m

A

Isa

rc

I

Fortezza/Franzenfeste

o

Bressanone/Brixen

Renon Loop

Vipiteno/Sterzing

Bolzano/Bozen

South Tyrol Valleys Bike and relax around Bolzano

600 m 200 m 0 km

35

80

125

Caldaro Loop

| 160 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Merano Loop

|

Bressanone/Brixen Loop

|

Bike & Hotel

45

Merano/Meran Adige

Renon/Ritten Ponte Gardena/Waidbruck

Appiano/Eppan

Bolzano/Bozen

Lago di Caldaro Ora/Auer

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT023

Season 1

495 €

Season 2 supplement

50 €

SGL supplement

198 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Bolzano

Cat. A DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR every day 11.04 - 26.09.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 11.4 - 24.06 and 5.09 - 26.09.2016 Season 2: 25.06 - 4.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, route description and maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE South Tyrol Mobilcard for railway and cable car (incl. transportation of the bike), about 40 € as per programme; Local taxes (about 10 €).

DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival at the hotel.

2. Renon roundtour (35 km). In the morning you will take the cable railway for an evocative round trip on the Renon plateau, the riviera of the Dolomites. In the 1600s, Renon was the preferred summer residence of aristocratic families from Vienna and Bolzano, who built splendid alpine cottages which you can admire today.

3. Bolzano–Lake Caldaro (45 km).

At the beginning of the tour you leave Bolzano behind you and slightly uphill you will pass the higher Appiano. This is followed by a descent through the vineyards to the Lake Caldaro, one of the largest lakes in South Tyrol, where bathing is possible from May to September. By Ora follow the cycle path along the Adige north again.

4. Bolzano. Day of rest. Take the opportunity to visit Bolzano or to relax in the hotel. Its mediaeval city centre, Gothic and Romanesque churches and bilingual signage give it a unique flavour of a city at the crossroad of Italian and Austrian cultures. For those who wish to pedal also today, we suggest the itinerary to Trento along a very nice and quiet cycle path (approx. 70 kms) from where you go back to Bolzano by train.

5. Bressanone–Bolzano (45 km).

From Bolzano the train takes you to Bressanone, the artistic and cultural capital of the Isarco valley. Here you can visit the baroque Cathedral and a interesting Pharmacy Museum, located in a nearly 500-year-old townhouse. From Bressanone you cycle along the valley, passing through Fortezza and returning finally to the capital of South Tyrol.

6. Merano–Bolzano (35 km). By train you reach Merano and start cycling along the Venosta valley, among apple orchards and vineyards.

On your way you ride past sleepy little towns like Nalles and Andriano. Still cycling along the cycle lane you reach your destination, Bolzano.

7. Bolzano. After breakfast end of services.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 160 km - Total vertical up: 1,250 mt - Terrain: 100% asphalt All the routes are on rural/secondary roads and cycle paths. There are some short ascents and descents mainly in the first stage on Renon plateau.

BY PLANE

Bolzano is very well connected to the following airports (90–120 min): Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Scala 4* (or equivalent if not available) Dating back to 1898 Hotel Stiegl Scala is a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern design and is ideally located for enjoying all that Bolzano has to offer, close to the most popular shops and the cable cars. The hotel boasts a beautiful garden with swimming pool.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

55

500 m

I

300 m

Po

a id rm Bo Canelli

Acqui Terme

Barolo

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Variation

1

2

Webcode

IT005

IT164

Season 1

620 €

650 €

Season 2 supplement

40 €

40 €

SGL supplement

175 €

190 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Alessandria

Cat. A DBL SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels.

56

105

105

175

230

275

ro Tana

Neive Alba

50

Alessandria

Asti

Bra

100 m 0m 0 km

Alessandria

Casale Monferrato

Torino

Casale Monferrato

Po

Alessandria

Piedmont Wine and food lovers’ paradise

Asti Loop

Savoy Residences in Turin and surroundings The vineyard landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato Truffles, often served in traditional dishes Barolo, red wine

| 240/300 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Asti

|

Alba

|

Italy

Acqui Terme

Bike & Hotel

55 € 75 € 100 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 16.04 - 1.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 16.04 - 29.04 and 24.09 - 1.10.2016 Season 2: 30.04 - 23.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10 €).

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY VARIATION 1

1. Arrival in Alessandria, a city divided by the river Tanaro.

2. Alessandria–Acqui Terme (50 km).

You cycle along the Strada Franca, an ancient road dating to 1454 and pass across smooth hills, woods and small isolated villages. You will taste local products and excellent local wines (Barbera and Dolcetto d’Acqui). Aqui Terme, famous for its spring waters, waits for you.

3. Acqui Terme–Alba (55 km).

You come across the famous Langhe hills, the countryside and the vineyards as well as the splendid villages of Montabone, Rocchetta Palafea and Canelli.

The stage ends in Alba, home of the most precious of the truffles, the Tartufo Bianco, and of “Dolcetto d’Alba”.

4. Alba–Asti (35 km). A route through vineyards and panoramic paths takes you to the heart of Monferrato. Do visit the historical centre with its famous towers.

5. Excursion to Torino or Asti round tour (35 km). Today you can either cycle across the Asti hills or go by train to Torino, the first capital of Italy, with splendid monuments, tree-lined roads and ancient cafés.

6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (55 km).

Take advantage of the hospitality of the wine cellars and restaurants along the way, which offer an excellent enogastronomical choice.

7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria (45 km). Cycling across green hills, cultivated lands and small villages on the right side of the Po river you return to Alessandria.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

8. Alessandria. Departure after breakfast. Possibility to book extra nights.

VARIATION 2

4. Alba roundtour (60 km). This stage brings you to the very famous wine region of Barolo. The most widely planted and productive region of Barolo is La Morra, responsible for nearly a third of all wine labeled as Barolo. Near Bra the Castle of Pollenzo is worth a visit: it was one of the residences of the Royal House of Savoy.

5. Alba–Asti (35 km) 6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (55 km).

7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria (45 km).

8. Alessandria.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 240/300 km - Total vertical up: 2,630/3,100 m - Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 6 and 7.

- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 7.

Tour of an average difficulty mainly running on paved roads with low traffic.

A bit more traffic is to be faced when approaching Alessandria and Asti.

Variation 1: The highest elevation gap is on day 3 and 6.

Variation 2: The highest elevation gap is on day 2 and 4.

BY PLANE

Alessandria is well connected with the following airports: Torino (TRN), Bergamo (BGY) and Milano Malpensa (MXP).

Italy

|

|

Bike & Hotel

San Giminiano, an iconic apparition as its medieval towers rise above the horizon Crete Senesi, lunar landscape of the „Senese Clays“ Pici cacio e pepe, wholesome bowl of pasta and stringy cheese Chianti Classico, the celebrated red needs little introduction

| 210 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

I

Gambassi Terme

Colle Val d'Elsa

Monteriggioni

Buonconvento

GENERAL INFO Cat. A

Webcode

IT165

Season 1

570 €

Season 2 supplement

60 €

SGL supplement

180 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.04 - 8.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 9.04 - 6.05 and 25.09 - 8.10.2016 Season 2: 7.05 - 24.09.2016

Pisa

DBL SGL

60 € 90 €

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route description and maps, 7-day Hotline service.

Siena

DBL SGL

60 € 90 €

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes: (approx. 10-15 €).

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

100 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels (sometimes a cosy 2* hotel in Lucca).

30

78

185

Siena Loop

163

208

Poggibonsi

Monteroni d'Arbia

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Monteroni d'Arbia

0 km

Siena

PRICE PER PERSON

133

0m

Certaldo

S. Gimignano

MAR TIRRENO

120

200 m

San Miniato Castelfiorentino

Livorno

Siena

Arno

Colle Val d'Elsa

Pisa

400 m

Firenze

Fucecchio

San Gimignano

Altopascio

San Miniato

Lago di Massacciuccoli Lucca

Lucca

Pisa

Tuscany Pisa–Siena along the Via Francigena

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

1 Pisa. Arrival. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Pisa is one of Italy’s top university towns and boasts a vibrant and colourful cultural scene, along with a host of other historical sites.

2 Pisa–Lucca (30/45 km). Cycling through Pisa’s countryside, you join the Serchio river as far as Lucca. Today’s stage can be extended by taking the alternative route, skirting Lake Massaciuccoli and taking in the Chiarone Nature Reserve.

3 Lucca–San Miniato (50 km). Starting from Piazza Anfiteatro in the heart of Lucca, we join the Via Francigena proper. Along the route, the ancient abbey of Pozzeveri, south of the Serchio, rises along a stretch which was notoriously challenging for the early pilgrim, its dense forest swamped in marshland.

4 San Miniato–Colle Val d’Elsa (55/60 km). Continue along the valleys and banks of the Elsa river, past the castles that once ensured safe passage to the pilgrims of the Via Francigena. Shortly before reaching Colle Val d’Elsa, you look forward to the appearance in the distance of San Gimignano, the medieval burgh celebrated for its timeless skyline of towers.

5 Colle Val d’Elsa–Siena (30 km).Head for Montagnola Senese, home to the historic clifftop castle of Monteriggioni, which once defended the Republic of Siena. The heart of Siena, Piazza del Campo, is a short ride away now. Here the historic bareback horse race takes place twice a year: the Palio di Siena.

6 Siena-Monteroni d’Arbia–Siena (45 km). The Via Francigena continues south following the ancient Cassian Way – the Roman route that once linked Florence and Rome – traversing one of the most picturesque stretches of Tuscany: the Crete Senesi. From Monteroni d’Alba you can return to Siena by bus or train, or simply cycle on and up through the gentle “Clays”, their moonscape lined with cypress trees and dotted with solitary shepherds’ huts.

7 Siena After breakfast, end of tour.

TOUR PROFILE:

- Total length: 210/230 km - Total vertical up: 2,000 m - Terrain: 75% asphalt, 25% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 1 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 6 The itinerary poses an intermediate challenge and follows wherever possible the pilgrim way. You cycle mainly along quiet roads with occasional stretches of rough (but comfortable) track. The early stages are essentially on level land; from San Miniato as far as Siena the hilly landscape is steadily undulating, with climbs of intermediate difficulty.

BY PLANE

Pisa is well connected with the following airports: Pisa (PSA), Florence (FLR).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

57

I

Lucca MAR TIRRENO

400 m

Montecatini Terme

Lago di Massaciuccoli

Firenze

Cat. A

Webcode

IT006

Season 1

638 €

Season 2 supplement

60 €

SGL supplement

195 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

60 € 90 € 100 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels (sometimes a cosy 2* hotel in Lucca).

58

Empoli

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

DBL SGL

0 km

45

90

150

215

245

Pisa 305

Vinci

PRICE PER PERSON

Pisa

0m

Poggio a Caiano

Arno

EXTRA NIGHTS

200 m

Pistoia

Collodi

MONTI PISANI

Pisa

Lucca

Pisa

Tuscany Pisa–Florence

Empoli

Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli and the iconic Tower Massaciuccoli Lake, a oasis for the birdlife Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a large grilled beef T-bone Vin Santo, dessert white wine

| 225 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Firenze

|

Montecatini Loop

|

Italy

Montecatini

Bike & Hotel

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.04 - 8.10.2016 MO 27.06 - 25.07.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 9.04 - 6.05 and 25.09 - 8.10.2016 Season 2: 7.05 - 24.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route description and maps, 7-day Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes: (approx. 10-15 €).

Train transfers: Montecatini–Pistoia (approx. 20 min., 6 € per person); Florence–Empoli (approx.

30 min., 8 € per person); Empoli–Pisa (approx.

30 min., 9 € per person).

DAY BY DAY

1. Pisa. Arrival. The city is famous all over the world for its magic Piazza dei Miracoli with the characteristic leaning tower, the bell tower of the city cathedral.

Part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1987, besides a large number of monuments it also offers the friendly and lively atmosphere of a university city.

2. Pisa–Lucca (30/45 km). Today you are pedalling northwards along the river Serchio for an easy stage. For those who wish a slightly longer itinerary, there is the option of going towards Massaciuccoli Lake before reaching Lucca.

3. Lucca–Montecatini (45 km).

Through a panoramic road you reach the little village of Collodi and the town of Pescia. In Collodi, where the author of Pinocchio spent his childhood, you can visit the famous Pinocchio’s Park and the aristocratic Villa Garzoni. In Pescia you can enjoy a quiet stroll among palaces, Renaissance mansions and the local flower street market.

4. Montecatini–Montecatini (60 km).

Today’s route offers you again two possibilities. You can relax in one of the most famous thermal cities in Europe and stroll down the narrow lanes of the old city, which is situated on a hill and can be reached by a characteristic cable-railway. Otherwise a picturesque itinerary will lead you among villas of the Medici family, olive groves, vineyards and beautiful historical farms, going past Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace (visit to the museum possible).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

5. Montecatini–Florence (50/65 km).

Today you can choose either to start pedalling directly from Montecatini or to shorten the trip through a short train transfer to Pistoia, rich in Romanesque and Renaissance monuments and having one of the most evocative squares in Italy: Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square). From here back onto the saddle, to reach Florence.

6. Florence. Free day. It will be up to you to decide how to spend your time in one of the world’s most beautiful cities!

7. Florence–Empoli–Pisa (40/65 km by bike + 40/65 km by train). Today you can choose if either starting pedalling directly from Florence and reaching Pisa through a train transfer from Empoli or taking a train to Empoli and riding to Pisa along the river Arno.

8. Pisa. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the tour: Umbria (p. 60).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 225/280 km - Total vertical up: 1,110/1,640 m - Terrain: 88% asphalt, 12% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3, 5 and 7.

The itinerary runs mostly on a flat area with some hilly parts which do not require particular athletic skills.

BY PLANE

Pisa is well connected with the following airports: Pisa (PSA), Florence (FLR).

Italy

Arno

300 m

Greve in Chianti

Tavarnelle

Livorno

I

MAR TIRRENO

Siena

0m 0 km

Certaldo S. Gimignano

Colle Val d’Elsa

600 m

Empoli

Certaldo

Firenze

Pisa

Firenze

Siena

Tuscany Siena, Chianti District and Florence

Tavarnelle V.P.

Piazza del Campo in Siena, home of the historical Palio race The Chianti hillsides offering an unique landscape Cantucci and Ricciarelli, typical biscuits of Siena Brunello di Montalcino, red wine

| 195 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Greve in Chianti

|

Radda in Chianti

|

Bike & Hotel

45

85

125

165

185

210

245

Radda in Chianti

Colle Val d’Elsa

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY VARIATION 1

Siena

PRICE PER PERSON SELF-GUIDED TOUR Variation

GENERAL INFO Cat. A 1

2

Webcode

IT017 IT031

Season 1

638 €

588 €

Season 2 supplement

60 €

60 €

SGL supplement

195 €

Half Board ¹

170 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Florence

DBL SGL

75 € 130 €

Siena

DBL SGL

60 € 90 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

100 €

Cat. A 3* hotels (in Colle val d’Elsa sometimes a cosy BB). ¹ 6 dinners included (3-course meal, beverages not included).

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.04 - 8.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 9.04 - 6.05 and 25.09 - 8.10.2016 Season 2: 7.05 - 24.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, free fenced parking place, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

Train transfer: Florence–Certaldo (approx. 50 min., 10 € per person).

1. Siena. Arrival.

2. Siena–Radda in Chianti (45 km).

From Siena head north towards the beautiful village of Radda in Chianti. The remains of its ancient walls show the significance that this town had in the competition between Florence and Siena.

3. Radda in Chianti–Greve (40 km).

The route brings you to Greve over the rounded hills with beautiful views.

4. Greve–Florence (40 km). You will cycle to Florence, capital of Tuscany, and admire the world famous artworks of Leonardo and Michelangelo.

5. Florence. A full day to spend visiting Florence. The city is often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and was long ruled by the Medici family.

6. Florence–Colle Val d’Elsa (40 km by train + 25 km by bike). In the morning a short train transfer will bring you to Certaldo. From here you will then cycle further up to Colle Val d’Elsa.

7. Colle Val d’Elsa–Siena (40 km). From Colle Val d’Elsa you will cycle to the beautiful town of Siena, which is not only one of the most fascinating towns in Tuscany but is also in a particularly beautiful position, with lovely surroundings.

8. Siena. Departure. Possibility to book extra nights.

VARIATION 2

5. Florence–Tavarnelle (40 km). The village of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa has Roman origins; it is named after the ancient taverns offering accommodation and refreshment located along the road which linked Florence to Siena and thence to Rome.

6. Tavarnelle–Colle Val d’Elsa (45 km).

From Tavarnelle you cycle to Colle Val d’Elsa, which lies in the heart of Tuscany, in a strategically favourable position near the towns of Siena and Florence. It is situated on the via Francigena that connects Rome with the North. On the way you pass Certaldo, whose upper part has remained as it was in the Middle Ages. Further on you come across San Gimignano, which rises on a hill dominating the Val d’Elsa with its towers.

7. Colle Val d’Elsa–Siena (40 km). See variation 1.

8. Siena. Departure after breakfast.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 195/255 km - Total vertical up: 3,180/3,970 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: NO - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: NO Heavy, with sloping landscapes dotted with steeper inclines, but not overwhelmingly so. The daily distance is about 40 kilometres. Though the daily routes are not too long, they can be strenuous, so we do recommend being in reasonably good physical condition for this tour.

BY PLANE

Siena is well connected (70–115 min.) with the following airports: Florence (FLR), Pisa (PSA).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

59

I

Castiglione del Lago

500 m

re

Magione

700 m

ve Te

Lago Trasimeno

Perugia

Assisi

300 m 100 m 0m 0 km

45

Orvieto

Orvieto

Arezzo

Città della Pieve

Umbria The green and spiritual heart of Italy

Todi

Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi A landscape of rolling hills and olive groves Pecorino cheese, often flavoured by local black truffle Sagrantino, red wine

| 285 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Spoleto

|

Assisi

|

Italy

Perugia

Bike & Hotel

100

135

180

240

285

Spello Città della Pieve

Bevagna

Foligno

DAY BY DAY Fabro Todi

Spoleto

Orvieto Lago di Bolsena

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT019

Season 1

685 €

SGL Supplement

175 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Orvieto

Cat. A DBL SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

60 € 80 € 100 €

Cat. A 3* Hotels (sometimes a cosy 2* hotel in Perugia).

60

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 30.04 - 17.09.2016 Special departures dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 30.04 - 17.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx 10 €).

Train transfers: Magione–Perugia (approx. 30 min., 6 € per person).

1. Individual arrival in Orvieto, an impressive city built on the top of white tuff cliffs.

2. Orvieto–Città della Pieve (45 km).

Today the stage is quite demanding: you’ll cycle through rolling hills, but you’ll be highly rewarded by reaching your destination: Città della Pieve, a medieval village still surrounded by 14th-century city walls.

3. Città della Pieve-Perugia (55 km by bike + 20 km by train). You’ll reach the beautiful Trasimeno Lake and pedal along its northern shores till you get to Magione and its castle. From here take a train to Perugia, a splendid old town surrounded by Etruscan city walls.

4. Perugia–Assisi (35 km). You’ll cross the Tiber plain and reach Santa Maria degli Angeli at the foot of Assisi: here many places are linked to the everyday life of Saint Francis of Assisi. The town will astonish you with its art, monuments and the 13th century Basilica.

5. Assisi–Spoleto (45/50 km). This is the most exciting stage of the tour with many possible stops. The first one is Spello, a walled town with a large number of Roman ruins. You’ll reach then Foligno, famous for its two wonderful town squares. The stage ends in Spoleto, a well preserved medieval village.

6. Spoleto–Todi (60 km). Today you’ll cycle among oak and olive trees as far as Todi, one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy, perched on a hill and overlooking the Tiber valley.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

7. Todi–Orvieto (45/55 km). You cycle through small villages in the middle of the nature. A variation of the stage takes you along to the Lake Corbara. On the last kilometres the white tuff cliff town of Orvieto will emerge from the rolling hills.

8. Orvieto. Departure after breakfast.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 285/295 km - Total vertical up: 3,870 m - Terrain: 85 % asphalt, 15 % unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 4 and 5 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary taking the train: day 2, 3, 5 The level of difficulty of this itinerary is moderate. The route follows mainly the asphalt low traffic roads and each day you will have to climb a few little steep slopes. The two last stages between Spoleto and Orvieto are the most challenging.

BY PLANE

You can reach Orvieto from Roma Fiumicino (FCO), Roma Ciampino (CIA), Perugia (PEG) and Florence (FLR).

Orvieto is located on the railway line which connects Rome with Florence and is therefore easy to reach from both cities (approx. 90 min.).

Italy

400 m

MAR ADRIATICO

Lecce

Otranto

S.M. di Leuca

Bari

Alberobello

Matera

Apulia short break Lecce and the deepest Salento

Gallipoli

Lecce, charming baroque city Grotta Zinzulusa, marine cave Caffè in ghiaccio, iced coffee with almond milk Primitivo di Manduria, red wine

| 205 km | 6 Days/5 Nights | short break

Lecce

|

Ostuni

|

Bike & Hotel

200 m

I

Brindisi

0m 0 km

70

115

115

165

215

265

320

Lecce

535 €

SGL supplement

130 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Lecce

Cat. A DBL SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Cat. A 3/4* hotels.

60 € 90 € 70 €

SEASONS Season 1: 25.04 - 20.06 and 29.08 - 3.10.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 5 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 8 €).

Train Transfer Ostuni–Lecce (approx. 60 min., 9 € per person).

BY PLANE

Lecce is well connected with the following airports: Bari (BRI) and Brindisi (BDS).

GIROLIBERO GREENS MAPS CYCLING

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

ROAD

Apulia and dining y, wining Sights, histor l information usefu

BOOK

tips,

Street maps of Martina Franca, Matera, Alberobello, Ostuni, Nardò, Santa Maria di Leuca, Otranto,Gallipoli, Lecce and cycle maps

· · · · ·

R E N S E

heel

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For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

GUIDE

Puglia

O

TRANSFERS Bari–Lecce: on request Brindisi–Lecce: on request

Mostly in the lowlands, sometimes hilly.

Traffic is almost non existent in Apulia except during the high holiday season.

The route includes very beautiful stretches on the coast.

G

Season 1

- Total length: 205 km - Total vertical up: 650 m - Terrain: 99% asphalt, 1% unpaved.

· · ·

IT035

ROUTE PROFILE

E E N S ·

·

Webcode

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR MO 25.04 - 20.06 and 29.08 - 3.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

I

Cat. A

G

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

· · · ·

GENERAL INFO

·

PRICE PER PERSON

great Aragonese Castle.

5. Otranto–Lecce (55 km). Riding along the Alimini Lakes and their unique Mediterranean bush you will enter Lecce.

Thanks to its Baroque style, it has earned the nickname of Florence of the South.

6. Lecce. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility to book extra nights.

G I R

S. Maria di Leuca

1. Lecce. Individual arrival in the baroque capital of the Salentinian peninsula.

2. Lecce–Gallipoli (50 km). After a few kilometers through the town of Lecce, you go deep into the “salentinian countryside”, before approaching the Ionian coast and your daily destination, Gallipoli.

3. Gallipoli–Santa Maria di Leuca (50 km). Cycling further along the coast you will reach Santa Maria di Leuca.

Its name was given by the ancient Greek sailors who came from the East. They saw this place lightened by the sun and therefore called it “leukos”, meaning white. The town is today a famous seaside resort.

4. Santa Maria di Leuca–Otranto (50 km). Today you will cycle northwards along the Adriatic coast to Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy where you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the

· · · · ·

MAR IONIO

DAY BY DAY

S

Otranto Gallipoli

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

61

Bike & Hotel

|

|

Italy

| 320 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Brindisi

Locorotondo

0 km

70

115

Lecce

Otranto

S.M. di Leuca

165

215

265

320

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 320 km - Total vertical up: 1,450 m - Terrain: 99% asphalt, 1% unpaved.

- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3.

Mostly in the lowlands, sometimes hilly.

Traffic is almost non existent in Apulia

Matera is well connected (90 min.) with Bari airport (BRI).

Lecce is well connected by train with the airports of Bari and Brindisi.

GIROLIBERO GREENS MAPS CYCLING

ROAD

BOOK

Puglia

I · · · · ·

The

R E N S E

heel

O L I B IR

lia

of Ital

G · · · · ·

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Apu

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L I B E R

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tips,

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O

· · ·

and dining y, wining Sights, histor l information usefu

Street maps of Martina Franca, Matera, Alberobello, Ostuni, Nardò, Santa Maria di Leuca, Otranto,Gallipoli, Lecce and cycle maps

E E N S ·

·

Apulia

R

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

GUIDE

G

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

· · · ·

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

BY PLANE

O

by train + 50 km by bike). After a short train transfer and a few kilometers through the town of Lecce, you go deep into the “salentinian countryside”, before approaching the Ionian coast and your daily destination, Gallipoli.

5. Gallipoli–Santa Maria di Leuca (50 km). Cycling further along the coast you will reach Santa Maria di Leuca.

Its name was given by the ancient Greek sailors who came from the East. They saw this place lightened by the sun and therefore called it “leukos”, meaning white. The town is today a famous seaside resort.

6. Santa Maria di Leuca–Otranto (50 km). Today you will cycle northwards along the Adriatic coast to Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy where you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the great Aragonese Castle.

7. Otranto–Lecce (55 km). Riding along the Alimini Lakes and their unique Mediterranean bush you will enter Lecce.

except during the high holiday season.

The route includes very beautiful stretches on the coast.

· · · ·

S. Maria di Leuca

Thanks to its Baroque style, it has earned the nickname of Florence of the South.

8. Lecce. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility to book extra nights.

·

MAR IONIO

62

115

G I R

Otranto Gallipoli

1. Matera. Arrival. Over millennia, inhabitants of the region have carved dwellings directly into ravines and gullies made of tuff (or tufa), a characteristic honey-colored soft stone. These houses are called “Sassi”, today a World Heritage site.

2. Matera–Alberobello (70 km). You cycle to the famous trulli which were generally constructed as dwellings or storehouses. Alberobello is situated upon two hills. On the eastern hill is the new town. On the western hill, the trulli are lined up in an urban conglomeration, subdivided into two districts: Monti and Aia Piccola, both World Heritage sites.

3. Alberobello–Ostuni (45 km). You cycle through the countryside to Ostuni, which is reputed as an architectural jewel, and is commonly referred to as “the White Town” for its white walls and its typically white-painted architecture.

4. Ostuni–Lecce–Gallipoli (70 km

Gallipoli

0m

Lecce

Taranto

DAY BY DAY

Lecce

200 m

Ostuni

· · · · ·

Matera

Gioia del Colle

400 m

MAR ADRIATICO

Alberobello

S

I

Ostuni

Bari

Alberobello

Matera

Apulia Coastline and Culture of Italy’s Heel

Italy

Bike & Hotel

Alberobello and Trulli, ancient dry-stone “huts” Adriatic and Ionian Sea: clean waters, crags and fine sands Orecchiette, traditional handmade pasta-dish Negroamaro, red wine

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT008

Season 1

615 €

Season 2 supplement

40 €

SGL supplement

180 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Matera

DBL SGL

60 € 90 €

Lecce

DBL SGL

60 € 90 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

100 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels (in Alberobello in some cases a typical “widespread hotel”, called “trullo”).

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 26.03 - 18.06 and 27.08 - 22.10.2016 FR 6.05 - 3.06 and 9.09 - 30.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 26.03 - 22.04 and 7.10 - 22.10.2016 Season 2: 23.04 - 18.06 and 27.08 - 6.10.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour (min. 2 pax) Bari–Matera: 45 € p.p.

Brindisi–Matera: on request Lecce–Bari: on request Lecce–Brindisi: on request

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

63

Bike & Hotel

MAR IONIO

I

600 m

Siracusa

Noto

Marzamemi

Catania

Piazza Armerina

Pozzallo

Parco dell'Etna

Modica

Sicily Limes and Legends of the South

Noto, Caltagirone and Siracusa, jewels of the baroque age Vendicari Nature Reserve, a mix of lagoons, sand dunes, and rocky coastlines Fresh fish, from the coastline fishing communities Nero d’Avola, red wine

Vittoria

| 230/195 | 8 Days/7 Nights or 7 Days/6 Nights

Caltagirone

|

Piazza Armerina

|

Italy

300 m 0m

Caltagirone

Siracusa

Ragusa

Vittoria

Modica MAR MEDITERRANEO

PRICE PER PERSON SELF-GUIDED TOUR Variation

1

2

Webcode

IT028 IT029

Season 1

645 € 605 €

SGL supplement

180 €

150 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Caltagirone

DBL SGL

45 € 65 €

Siracusa

DBL SGL

50 € 75 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

100 €

Cat. A 3* Hotels, B&B and agriturismo.

64

Marzamemi

GENERAL INFO Cat. A

35

80

80

DAY BY DAY VARIATION 1 (8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS)

Noto

Pozzallo

0 km

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 26.03 - 11.06 and 27.08 - 22.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 26.03 - 11.06 and 27.08 - 22.10 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7/6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, transfer from Caltagirone to Piazza Armerina (only for Variation 1) and from Vittoria to Modica, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10 €).

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour (min. 2 pax) 50 € per person Catania-Caltagirone; 60 € per person Siracusa-Catania

1. Caltagirone. Arrival.

2. Caltagirone–Piazza Armerina– Caltagirone (35 km). Morning transfer to Piazza Armerina with its Villa Romana del Casale. First excavated in 1950, it was probably a hunting lodge and summer residence and is decorated with multicoloured mosaic floors that are unique throughout the Roman world in their quality and extension. After the visit cycle back to Caltagirone.

VARIATON 2 (7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS WITH ARRIVAL ON SUNDAY IN CALTAGIRONE)

3. Caltagirone–Modica (45 km by bike + 40 km transfer). From Caltagirone you cycle southward until you reach Vittoria where a transfer will bring you to Modica. The upper town is watched over by the magnificent 18th century façade of the church of San Giorgio.

4. Modica–Pozzallo (35 km). Before leaving Modica taste the famous spicy chocolate. You will gradually descend alongside the characteristic caves of the Iblei mountains to the baroque town of Scicli. Continue onwards through the marine centre of Pozzallo.

5. Pozzallo–Marzamemi (55 km). This almost flat stage brings you to Portopalo di Capo Passero, continental Europe’s southernmost point. Before arriving to Marzamemi, the beautiful island of Correnti marks the meeting point of the Ionian and Mediterranean seas.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

115

170

205

240

6. Marzamemi–Noto (25 km). The route takes a turn to the north passing through the natural reserve of Vendicari, where you can relish the beauty of the countryside. The trip ends in Noto, considered to be the finest Baroque town in Sicily.

Completely devastated in the earthquake of 1693 the city was rebuilt in the style of that time with beautiful honey-coloured stone buildings.

7. Noto–Siracusa (35 km). The route continues towards Siracusa, the capital of Ancient Greece and home to Archimedes. With the Island of Ortigia in the background, the centre of Siracusa is a wonderful example of ancient city.

8. Siracusa. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility to book extra nights.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 230/195 km - Total vertical up: 1,670/1,170 m - Terrain: 100% asphalt - Train connection among the overnight stays: NO - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: NO The itinerary develops on low traffic side roads except for the short part entering Siracusa. Most stretches are on lowlands with some slightly hilly passages.

This tour is however suggested to people with a minimum of bike practice.

BY PLANE

Caltagirone and Siracusa are well connected (90 min.) by bus and train with Catania airport (CTA).

France

Avignon

Pont du Gard

200 m

Arles

0m

Nîmes Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

0 km

65

105

150

200

245

305

Rh

ôn

e

F Pe t

it

Les-Baux-de-Provence Arles

DAY BY DAY

e

ôn

Rh

Montpellier Aigues-Mortes

Parc naturel régional de Camargue

St. Maries-de-la-Mer

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

FR013

Season 1

730 €

Season 2 supplement

45 €

SGL supplement

225 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Arles

Nîmes

Uzès

Aigues Mortes

Arles

Provence and Camargue Roman sites and Van Gogh landscapes

Avignon Loop

Avignon, the splendid city of exiled Popes Camargue Nature Park Petit farcis, Provençal stuffed vegetables Châteauneuf-du-Pape, red wine

| 305 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Avignon

|

Uzès

|

Bike & Hotel

Cat. A DBL SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Cat. A 3/4* hotels, with some 2* hotels.

75 € 105 € 85 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.04 - 15.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 9.04 - 3.06 and 25.09 - 15.10.2016 Season 2: 4.06.2016 - 24.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, welcome briefing in English, route descriptions & maps, entrance to Pont du Gard, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

1. Individual arrival in Arles, the city of diabolical “ferias”, muse of artists and poets, known for its rich ancient and Romanesque heritage.

2. Arles–Aigues-Mortes (65 km).

Leave the city and go into the delta of the Rhône, better known as “Camargue”, where nature still prevails over civilization.

You will cycle among cane fields, salt lakes, flamingos, horses and bulls.

You will stop in Saintes-Maries-de-laMer, and then continue towards the medieval fortress of Aigues-Mortes.

3. Aigues-Mortes–Nîmes (40 km).

Back to civilization. Following streets with low traffic you reach the populated centre of Nîmes; rich in art and history, it is also called the “Rome of France”, but it also reminds Spain with its arenas and bullfighting.

4. Nîmes–Uzès (45 km). After a tour of the city, surrounded by its Roman past, you will cycle up to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a truly spectacular work. Refresh yourself with a bath on the banks of the river Gard before reaching Uzès.

5. Uzès–Avignon (50 km). Riding through gentle hills, today you will reach the capital of Provence, a real open air museum. Avignon was a papal city for nearly a century and here seven popes decided, in 1300, the destiny of the Christian Church. Before the arrival, stop at the beautiful ancient village of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.

6. Avignon–Châteauneuf-du-Pape– Avignon (45 km). You will cycle towards Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following lowtraffic roads and surrounded by vineyards. You cross the river Rhône at the height of Roquemaure and come back in Villeneuve along the Rhône banks.

7. Avignon–Arles (60 km).

After leaving the Palace of the Popes, you will cycle again to close the tour returning to Arles. Along the way, you cannot miss a stop at the famous SaintRémi-de-Provence and Les-Baux-deProvence, well-known places throughout the world thanks to Van Gogh.

8. Arles.

After breakfast, end of services.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 305 km - Total vertical up: 980 m - Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 3 and 7 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3 Route mostly on low traffic roads in rural and city areas. Short stretches are on unpaved roads. A couple of days present some short uphill sections with the only relevant ascent to Les-Baux-deProvence (4 km of gentle ascent).

BY PLANE

Arles is well connected to the following airports: Marseille Provence (MRS), Lyon Saint Exupéry (LYS), Nîmes Garons (FNI), Avignon Caumont (AVN). Montpellier Mediterranée (MPL).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

65

Bike & Hotel

|

|

France

| 295 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Saumur

RignyUssé

Tours

Saumur

30

50

100

145

200

260

295

0m

Chaumont Chenonceaux

1. Orléans. Independent arrival in Orléans, homeland of Joan of Arc. 2. Orléans–Beaugency/St. Dyé (30/50 km). You pedal along the Loire alternating cycle paths with back-roads. After a visit to the Cathedral of Clery St. André you arrive at the Chateau Dunois with the beautiful medieval centre of Beaugency. A land full of water and culture will lead the way to the beautiful town of St. Dyé, an ancient river harbour.

3. Beaugency/St. Dyé–Blois (70/50 km). From the huge park surrounding Chambord Castle today’s trip continues on to Cheverny Castle through the forest of Boulogne. One last ride to the castle of Beauregard across the forest before you arrive in Blois.

4. Blois–Amboise (45 km). After the visit of the city of Blois and its impressive castle, you pedal through forests up

Che

r

Indre

ne

en

Vi

DAY BY DAY

66

0 km

200 m

Cheverny

Villandry Chinon

Chambord

Chinon

Amboise

Tours

Loire

Beaugency

Amboise

Blois

Blois

Angers

St.Dye

St. Dyé

e

F

Beaugency

Orléans Loir

Orléans

Loire valley Classic tour Orléans–Saumur

7. Chinon–Saumur (35 km). The tour continues along country roads beyond the confluence of the rivers Loire and Vienne arriving in Savigny en Vèron and the sites of Candes St-Martin. A few Kilometres away there is the castle of Montsoreau from which you can enjoy the landscape over the Fontevraud

to the town of Onzain. Here it is possible to visit the castle of Chaumont built on the top of a hill overlooking the river. In Amboise you cannot miss the house where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life.

5. Amboise–Tours (55 km). After the forest of Amboise you arrive in Chenonceaux, known as the castle of the three ladies. You continue along the river Cher up to the city of Tours. You might also decide to stop for a visit at the castle of Nitray with its famous wine cellars.

6. Tours–Chinon (60 km). Pedalling between the Loire and the Cher rivers you arrive at Villandry Castle, well known for its gardens. Following the Loire river, you’ll reach the city Langeais where you can stop for a break. Before arriving in Chinon you will visit Ussé, where you can admire the castle of the Sleeping Beauty.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Abbey. At the end of the stage you will visit Saumur, considered the “Pearl of Anjou”.

8. Saumur. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tour: Paris–London (p. 70).

France

Bike & Hotel

Tours, Unesco Heritage Site The gardens of Château de Villandry Goat cheese from Loire valley Sancerre, white wine

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 295 km - Total vertical up: 720 m - Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 In this tour you cycle through the wonderful Loire Valley. This cycle trip is not very demanding, though sometimes there are some hilly sections. The daily stages are not very long – always about 50 kms – mostly in the lowlands. The itinerary is mainly on cycle paths or paved roads with a little traffic.

BY PLANE

Orléans is well connected with the following airports (120-210 min.): Paris Charle de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), Paris Beauvais (BVA) and Nantes (NTE).

PRICE PER PERSON SELF-GUIDED TOUR

GENERAL INFORMATIONS Cat. A

Webcode

Cat. B FR003

Season 1

695 €

599 €

Season 2 supplement

45 €

36 €

SGL supplement

200 €

175 €

Half Board ¹

160 €

150 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Orléans

DBL/SGL

Saumur

DBL/SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 23.04 - 24.09.2016 SU 29.05 - 4.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 23.04 - 3.06 and 5.09 - 24.09.2016 Season 2: 4.06 - 4.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 65 € p.p. Saumur–Orléans (bike included) min. 2 persons, on Saturdays and Sundays.

Cat. B 55/85 €

65/100 €

55/85 €

80 €

60 €

Cat. A mainly 3* hotels with a few 2* hotels.

Cat. B mainly 2* hotels with a few 3* hotels. ¹ 6 dinners included (except the one in Tours), beverages not included.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

67

Bike & Hotel

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|

France

Blois castle River banks of Loire and Cher Tarte tatin, a traditional apple pie Cabernet franc, red wine

| 200 km | 6 Days/5 nights | short break

Saumur

RignyUssé

Tours

Chenonceaux

Vi ne

Cat. B

Season 1

530 €

465 €

Season 2 supplement

20 €

30 €

SGL supplement

150 €

135 €

Half Board ¹

120 €

110 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

50 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

140 €

Helmet

15 €

DBL/ SGL

Tours

DBL/ SGL

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

Cat. A

Cat. B

55/85 € 65/100 €

55/85 €

80 €

60 €

Cat. A mainly 3* hotels with a few 2* hotels.

Cat. B mainly 2* hotels with a few 3* hotels. ¹ 4 dinners included (except the one in Tours), beverages not included.

68

r

Indre

en

Cat. A

FR004

Orléans

Che

GENERAL INFO

Webcode

EXTRA NIGHTS

Chinon

Saumur

30

50

100

145

200

260

295

0m

Chaumont

PRICE PER PERSON SELF-GUIDED TOUR

0 km

200 m

Cheverny

Villandry Chinon

Tours

Amboise

Chambord

Amboise

Blois

Loira

Beaugency

Blois

Angers

St.Dye

St. Dyé

a

F

Beaugency

Orléans Loir

Orléans

Loire valley short break The highlights from Orléans to Tours

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 23.04 - 24.09.2016 SU 29.05 - 4.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 23.04 - 3.06 and 5.09 - 24.09.2016 Season 2: 4.06 4.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 5 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour Tours–Orleans: on request

DAY BY DAY

ROUTE PROFILE

1. Orléans. Independent arrival in Orléans, homeland of Joan of Arc. 2. Orléans–Beaugency/St. Dyé (30/50 km). You pedal along the Loire alternating cycle paths with back-roads. After a visit to the Cathedral of Clery St. André you arrive at the Chateau Dunois with the beautiful medieval centre of Beaugency. A land full of water and culture will lead the way to the beautiful town of St. Dyé, an ancient river harbour.

3. Beaugency/St. Dyé–Blois (70/50 km). From the huge park surrounding Chambord Castle today’s trip continues on to Cheverny Castle through the forest of Boulogne. One last ride to the castle of Beauregard across the forest before you arrive in Blois.

4. Blois–Amboise (45 km). After the visit of the city of Blois and its impressive castle, you pedal through forests up to the town of Onzain. Here it is possible to visit the castle of Chaumont built on the top of a hill overlooking the river. In Amboise you cannot miss the house where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life.

5. Amboise–Tours (55 km). After the forest of Amboise you arrive in Chenonceaux, known as the castle of the three ladies. You continue along the river Cher up to the city of Tours. You might also decide to stop for a visit at the castle of Nitray with its famous wine cellars.

6. Tours.

Departure after breakfast.

Possibility to book extra nights.

- Total length: 200 km - Total vertical up: 450 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

In this tour you cycle through the wonderful Loire Valley. This cycle trip is not very demanding, though sometimes there are some hilly sections. The daily stages are not very long – always about 50 kms – mostly in the lowlands. The itinerary is mainly on cycle paths or paved roads with a little traffic.

BY PLANE

Orléans is well connected with the following airports (120-210 min.): Paris Charle de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), Paris Beauvais (BVA) and Nantes (NTE).

France

ire Chambord

Amboise Tours Ussé

ne

Webcode

FR039

Season 1

380 €

SGL supplement

120 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

50 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

140 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Blois

DBL SGL

60 € 95 €

Amboise

DBL SGL

55 € 85 €

Cat. A 2* and 3* hotels.

Indre

en

Vi

Cat. A

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

Chenonceaux

Ch

er

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

EXTRA NIGHTS

Chitenay

Azay le Rideau

PRICE PER PERSON

40 €

0 km

25

45

55

90

115

Amboise loop 135

Cheverny

Villandry

Chinon

0m

Lo

Blois Saumur

Blois Forest

200 m

F Loire

Blois loop

Orléans

Chambord

Blois

Loire valley short break From Blois to Amboise

Chenonceaux

Chambord Castle The Blois Forest Goat cheese from Loire valley Chenin blanc, white wine

| 125 km | 5 Days/4 Nights | short break

|

Amboise

|

Bike & Hotel

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SU 29.05 - 4.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 29.05 - 4.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 4 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

DAY BY DAY

ROUTE PROFILE

1. Blois. Individual arrival.

2. Blois Roundtour (45 km). Today’s stage leads you to one of the most famous and majestic of all Loire castles: Chambord. Leaving the hotel, you head for Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire, an ancient hamlet perched on the river. From here you continue southwards into the heart of the countryside until you reach the castle’s surrounding forest.

3. Blois–Amboise (45 km). You saddle up for the start of a magical ride that today takes you along the River Loire as far as Amboise. Steeped in history, the atmospheric market town is celebrated for its château and the Clos-Lucé manor, where Leonardo lived for three years (and died) and where some of his remarkable inventions are on display. The 19th century turtle fountain (topped by a teddy bear figure), the Clock Tower and the 7-level Chinese Pagoda all add to the town’s interest.

4. Amboise Roundtour (35 km). You start the day cycling through the magnificent Forest of Amboise and into fields of wheat and barley. The destination is the Château de Chenonceau, its gardens fabulously landscaped against the meandering River Cher. What better way to enjoy today’s exploration through verdant landscapes than astride our two-wheeled steeds. Expect some ups and downs shortly before Chenoncheaux (it is always possible to return by train).

5. Amboise.

After breakfast, end of tour.

- Total length: 125 km - Total vertical up: 450 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 3 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3 In this tour you cycle through the wonderful Loire Valley. This cycle trip is pretty easy. The daily stages are always below 50 kms – mostly in the lowlands.

The itinerary is mainly on cycle paths or paved roads with a little traffic.

BY PLANE

Blois is well connected with the following airports (120-210 min.): Paris Charle de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), Paris Beauvais (BVA) and Nantes (NTE).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

69

Bike & Hotel

|

|

|

France, Great Britain

| 340 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Newhaven

Polegate

100 m

London

Newhaven

Dieppe

East Grinstead

BE

Forges Les Eaux

Gisors

55 km

200 m

East Grinstead

Brighton

0 km

NL

GB

Crawley

Cergy

London Tamigi Coulsdon

Paris

The Avenue Verte Paris–London From Notre Dame to the Big Ben

0m

ENGLISH CHANNEL

120 km

185 km

245 km

245 km

300 km 345 km

F Dieppe

MAPS CYCLING

BOOK

Paris-London Fra

nce Unit ed Aven Kingdo m ue V erte

Street maps Forges-les-Eaux, of Paris, London, Cergy, Gisors, Brighton, Newhave and cycle maps n, East Grinstead O L I B E

London

self

· · · ·

Paris

R E N S E

O L I B IR

guided

· · ·

E E N S ·

·

G · · · · ·

R

RO

G R E E N

G

·

L I B E R

E

·

R · · · · ·

O

tips,

G

and dining y, wining Sights, histor l information usefu

O

For this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide - Maps - Roadbook

ROAD

ris From Paon to Lond

I

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL

GUIDE

R

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

GIROLIBERO GREENS

· · · ·

70

castle bearing the same name. After the small town of Bray-et-Lû you will proceed along the river Epte to Gisors and the fortress marking the historical Franco-Norman border.

4. Gisors/surroundings–Forges-lesEaux (65 km). Departure from Gisors for Gournay-en-Bray and then on to Forgesles-Eaux, the renowned spa resort.

Welcome to Normandy, or rather to Gourmandie, land of unique flavours!

5. Forges-les-Eaux–Newhaven (60 km by bike + ferry). From Forges-les-Eaux you follow the brand new cycle path that will take you directly to the sea, through the wonderful countryside dotted with farms that supply their excellent products to the Norman and Parisian markets.

Along the second half of the route the landscape is tinged with blue as you pass through the Arques estuary, overlooked by the castle of the same name and ancient sand caves that have become a

O

1. Bienvenue à Paris! Those arriving in the early afternoon can make a first visit of the Ville Lumière.

2. Paris–Cergy (55 km). Au revoir Paris!

Starting from Notre Dame you can follow the Axe Historique from the Louvre with the Champs Elysées through the Arc de Triomphe till the new Défense district.

After Nanterre, you will come to the islands and parks so dear to the impressionists, once a destination for Sunday trips, somewhere to spend the afternoon “en plein air” on a boat between the Seine and the Marne. Welcome to the Promenade Bleue in Paris!

3. Cergy–Gisors/surroundings (65 km).

Your journey continues through the heart of the Vexin natural park, home to picturesque towns, castles and farmhouses.

After Théméricourt and its spectacular Maison du Parc, you continue to Villarceaux and its eighteenth-century

G

DAY BY DAY

Villarceaux Théméricourt Saint-Denis Cergy Nanterre Paris

From here it gets more difficult but once in Groombridge it will be flat again.

Following the Forest Way you arrive to the historic local market town of East Grinstead.

7. East Grinstead-London (45 km).

From East Grinstead you take the Worth Way, a cycle path through a wonderful wood to Crawley: an ultramodern city, this will get you ready for The Old Smoke itself, London. From here you take the train to Couldson, where you start cycling through green parks and quiet districts to the heart of London. Your finish line for the week will be Westminster.

G I R

Gisors Vernon

refuge for marsh birds. Here you are in Dieppe, France’s leading seaside resort and a favourite place for many impressionist painters. Appointment on the quayside for the trip across the Channel.

Overnight in Newhaven after the crossing.

6. Newhaven–East Grinstead (55/75 km). From Newhaven take the train to Polegate where you start to pedal.

Alternatively you can cycle till Brighton and take the train from there but in this case you will extend the mileage of 20 km. Along the Cuckoo Valley and the old railway line, you will come to Heathfield.

· · · · ·

Seine

Gournay-en-Bray

S

Forges-les-Eaux

tour

France, Great Britain

Bike & Hotel

Paris and London, two of Europe’s most alluring capitals The white cliffs of southern British coastline Seafood of Seine-Maritime Calvados, the apple brandy from Normandy

8. London. After breakfast, goodbye and au revoir! Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tour: Loire Valley (p. 60).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 340 km - Total vertical up: 1,675 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2,4, 6 and 7 The route follows the Avenue Verte along dedicated cycle paths, road shoulder cycle lanes and quiet country roads.

The route is in the lowlands when it follows the main rivers, it then becomes slightly more difficult in the countryside areas, especially in England.

BY PLANE

Both Paris and London are well connected to many airports.

Paris: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (PRY), Beauvais (BVA).

London: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN).

MAXI ASSISTANCE

For this tour, Girolibero offers you MAXI assistance for both group and individual packages. This means that in addition to a guide for the Guided tour, individual clients can count on the support of a vehicle travelling nearby. Thanks to this service, individual clients can enjoy a worry-free cycling holiday.

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

FR001

Season 1

719 €

Season 2 supplement

30 €

SGL supplement

450 €

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 14.05 - 17.09.2016 FR 22.07 - 12.08.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 14.05 - 1.07 and 28.08 - 17.09.2016 Season 2: 2.07 - 27.08.2016 GUIDED TOUR 2.07, 9.07, 30.07, 6.08, 13.08.2016

GUIDED TOUR Webcode

FR103

Basic price

998 €

SGL supplement

450 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

80 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, roadbook & maps, ferry cruise Dieppe-Newhaven, support van in the area, 7-days Hotline service.

Extra services for Guided tour: guide on bike, 5 dinners (beverages not included).

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE All the train transfers.

Cat. A

Paris

DBL/SGL

90/170 €

London

DBL/SGL

on request

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

140 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels with one 2* hotel in Gisors/ surroundings.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

71

Bike & Family

72

Intro

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Intro

NICE PEOPLE LOVE CYCLING

Bike & Family

BIKE AND FAMILY Designed with the younger ones in mind Simple itineraries, shorter stages and following cycling tracks or the quietest roads. All luggage transfer is arranged and accommodation options include triple and quad rooms wherever possible, helping you to contain costs.

“The benefits of family cycling: children love cycling - it’s fast and fun, and gives them freedom and independence to get around. And you don’t need to wait until your kids are old enough to ride themselves to start enjoying the benefits of cycling as a family” (sustrans.org.uk).

FUN AND SAFETY We provide bikes and accessories for riding in safety with your children.

20-24” wheels, and a choice of trailers, seats, tandems: all possible solutions for a cycling holiday with kids of any age and size.

See details at pp. 8-9.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

73

Peschiera del Garda, one of Italian best-loved lake resort Parco Sigurtà, a vast and diverse botanical park Tortelli of Valeggio, hand-made fresh pasta filled with meat Bardolino, red wine

| 95 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Lago di Garda

Sirmione

Pastrengo Peschiera

Desenzano

200 m

Park Natura Viva

Verona

100 m

Ad ig

Pozzolengo

e

Borghetto

I

M

o

Laghi di Mantova

PRICE PER PERSON Cat. A

Webcode

IT037

Season 1

490 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Child seat

free

Child trailer

80 €

FollowMe-tandem

70 €

Family tandem

140 €

Helmet

15 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Children 0-2 years

100%

3-6 years

50%

7-12 years

30%

Cat. A 3* hotels (with swimming pool in Peschiera).

74

Mantova

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

0m 0 km

25

60

100

Valeggio sul Mincio

i nc

i

Desenzano

Adi ge

Lake Garda Easy cycling and bags of fun

Zoo Parco Natura Viva

|

Valeggio Sul Mincio

|

Italy

Peschiera

Bike & Family

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR MO 2.05 - 26.09.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 2.05 - 26.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €), entrance fees to the theme parks mentioned in the programme (to be checked on their websites).

DAY BY DAY

1. Desenzano del Garda. Individual arrival.

2. Desenzano–Peschiera del Garda (25 km). Crossing the regional border from Lombardy into the Venice Lands, our first stage takes us to Peschiera, one of the best loved resorts on Lake Garda.

Still completely shielded by its original Venetian walls and surrounded by water, Peschiera will soon make you feel well and truly on holiday with its gorgeous beach offering all manner of water sports, and its range of shops, restaurants and gelaterias.

3. Peschiera–Borghetto–Parco Sigurtà–Peschiera (35 km). Leaving Peschiera, today we head for the Sigurtà Garden Park, skirting the River Mincio along the famous cycleway that leads to Mantua. Our first port of call is the riverside hamlet of Borghetto, listed among “Italy’s most beautiful villages” and renowned, along with neighbouring Valeggio, for its tortellini. Sigurtà covers a surface area of 600,000 sq. meters, with paths linking 18 ponds, meadows, a labyrinthine maze, a medicinal plants garden and large sundial, as well as an educational play farm. Then cycle back to Peschiera for the night.

4. Peschiera. Today’s menu is strictly for kids only (of all ages!): Gardaland, one of Europe’s top theme parks, offering dozens of rides and attractions.

The park can be reached by free shuttle service from Peschiera station. Alternatively, why not enjoy the Sealife Aquarium or the Canevaworld Aquapark (also served by free shuttle).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

5. Peschiera–Zoo Parco Natura Viva–Peschiera (35 km). The Parco Natura Viva has been described as a zoological park where “the animals actually look contented”, and today’s excursion takes us into the heart of a conservation project with a difference, which includes a number of endangered species. There is an added bonus for cyclists: a reduced ticket price. Cycle back to Peschiera.

6. Peschiera. A day for some lakeside relaxation and an opportunity to enjoy some of the week’s attractions once again.

7. Peschiera. After breakfast, end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 95 km - Total vertical up: 310 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved Routes are devised with the younger traveller in mind and are predominantly on cycleways and quiet roads. Flat with no significant climbs. The itinerary is designed in loops and can thus be modified at will.

BY PLANE

Desenzano is very well connected to the following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice (VCE).

Italy

I

Vicenza

Treviso

200 m

Sile

100 m

Mestre

Bac

chi

Lago di Fimon

Bre

nta

glio

ne

Battaglia

Vicenza

Vicenza to Abano Nature, art and relaxation

Abano

Villa Valmarana ai Nani, with its frescoes, gardens and eccentric statues of dwarfs Euganean Hills Regional Park Polenta e baccalà (polenta and stockfish) Bianco di Custoza, white wine

| 125 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Fimon

|

Polegge

|

Bike & Family

0m

Venezia

0 km

20

50

90

120

Padova Abano Terme

DAY BY DAY LAGUNA DI VENEZIA

Montegrotto Battaglia Terme

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT038

Season 1

460 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Child seat

free

Child trailer

80 €

FollowMe-tandem

70 €

Family tandem

140 €

Helmet

15 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Children 0-2 years

100%

3-6 years

50%

7-12 years

30%

Cat. A 2/3* hotels (with swimming pool in Abano).

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR MO 2.05 - 26.09.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 2.05 - 26.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days Hotline service, entrance into Villa Valmarana ai Nani, ice-cream in the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza (Brustolon).

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

1. Vicenza. Individual arrival.

2. Vicenza round tour (20 km).

A cycleway leads to the old hamlet of Maddalene and its karst springs – always a great way to cool down (save the ice cream for later!). At Polegge, another hamlet, you can discover the remains of a Roman aqueduct, before heading back into town. Elegant Vicenza was home to the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, and the pedestrianised historic centre offers many of his celebrated designs. It is also a great place for a spot of shopping and – better still – a richly deserved gelato at the historic Gelateria Brustolon!

3. Vicenza–Lake Fimon–Vicenza (30 km). A short ride out of town two of Vicenza’s most famous villas await your visit: Palladio’s perfectly symmetrical La Rotonda and the 18th Century Villa Valmarana ai Nani, adorned by statues of dwarfs and playful frescoes by Tiepolo.

The cycleway then takes us to Lake Fimon, which you can explore on foot, by bike or by boat. Then back along the same track to Vicenza.

4. Vicenza–Abano (45 km). Today we take our familiar Riviera Berica cycleway, this time carrying on to the hillside village of Costozza, with its pictoresque stone houses. Here we also find Villa da Schio, rich in history and renowned for its botanical gardens.

Resuming our ride southwards, we come to the Benedictine Abbey of Praglia, before reaching our destination: the thermal resort of Abano.

5. Abano–Battaglia Terme–Abano (30 km). Leaving Abano, a brief ride takes us

to Montegrotto Terme where we find the Butterfly House, one of the top butterfly conservation centres in Italy.

Pedalling through the Regional Park of the Euganian Hills (a volcanic outcrop often mistaken for Alpine foothills – hence the abundance of thermal waters), we reach another spa resort: Battaglia Terme. A canal flows through the tiny attractive village, and you can be excused for thinking that you are in a backwater of Venice. Back to Abano for the night.

6. Abano. Relax and enjoy the hotel pool, or pile into a local bus to discover the treasures of Padova: the choice is yours. Alternatively, why not hop in a cab to Le Fiorine Adventure Park: the treetop ropes, suspension bridges and zip-lines, deep in the Euganian Hills woodland, will soon release your inner Tarzan!

7. Abano. After breakfast, end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 125 km - Total vertical up: 160 m - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved Routes are devised with the younger traveller in mind and are predominantly on cycleways and quiet roads. Flat, except for a couple of short climbs. The itinerary is designed in loops and can thus be modified at will.

BY PLANE

Vicenza is well connected (60–90 min.) with the following airports: Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Treviso (TPS), Bergamo (BGY-150 min).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

75

Italy

© Südtirol Marketing_Alex Filz

Bike & Family

co

Bressanone

Merano

Silandro Nalles

Renon

600 m 400 m 200 m 0 km

40

40

65

65

100

100

Bressanone/Brixen loop

ar

Is

CH

Bressanone/Brixen

Lago di Resia

Merano/Meran

A

Bolzano/Bozen loop

Nalles/Nals

South Tyrol Where hospitality is second nature

Silandro/Schlanders loop

Merano, sophisticated spa town Tyrol mountains and meadows Apricot dumplings, typical dessert of Venosta Valley Sylvaner, white wine

| 80 km | 5 Days/4 Nights

Silandro/Schlanders

|

Merano/Meran loop

|

100

Bolzano

Adi ge

DAY BY DAY

I

Lago di Garda

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

IT033

Season 1

450 €

SEASONS Season 1: 7.05 - 24.09.2016

Girolibero bike

70 €

Child seat

free

Child trailer

80 €

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 4 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, route description & maps, Museumobil Card *, 7-days Hotline service.

FollowMe-tandem

70 €

Family tandem

140 €

Helmet

15 €

BICYCLE RENT

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Children 0-2 years

100%

3-6 years

50%

7-12 years

30%

Cat. A 3* Hotel

76

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR every day 7.05 - 24.09.2016

* Museumobilcard is included: it is valid for 3 days, covers most of the Alto Adige / South Tyrol public transport network and gives access to over 80 museums and sites throughout the region (www.mobilcard.info).

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10 €)

1. Nalles. Arrival, dinner and first night.

A firm favourite with nature lovers, Nalles is also known as “Rose Village” on account of the abundance of rosebushes in the area.

2. Nalles–Bolzano (40 km or 20 km + train) + cable car to Renon. From Nalles you head for Bolzano on your bike. The town’s museum is also the home of “Ötzi” the Iceman, still going strong after 5,300 birthdays. From Bolzano, a scenic ride in a cable car whisks you up to the Renon Plateau, renowned for its Earth Pyramids, a natural phenomenon. Lying at the very heart of South Tyrol, Renon also offers some spectacular views across the Dolomites.

3. Nalles–Merano (train + 25 km).

A train hop brings you to Merano (please note that bike transport is chargeable on the day today, as for the rest of the week). The main spa town in South Tyrol, Merano has welcomed many a dignitary through the years to its thermal waters and temperate climate, among them “Sissi”, Empress Elizabeth of Austria. If a wellness session comes high on your list, this is the place to tick that one off (but bring your bathers!).

Back on your bike, you cycle through the Burggrafenamt district and along the Adige River cycleway – a landscape of apple plantations, vineyards and tiny alpine hamlets – all the way back to Nalles.

4. Nalles–Silandro (train + 35 km).

Once you have reached Silandro by train, you head once again for Merano, but this time along the Venosta Valley. These hillsides too are carpeted with apple trees and gloriously scenic, but the

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

chance for more cultural discovery is never far: castles, museums and churches beckon, and why not take a second bite at Merano? If you opt for a session at the spa today, the train can ferry you back to Nalles with no further cycling.

Alternatively, for a change of scenery you could catch a train from Bolzano to Bressanone, and then follow the Isarco River back down to Bolzano. Bressanone’s Baroque cathedral is quite a gem, and the Augustinian abbey in Varna/ Novacella makes for an unusual visit: while its library is reminiscent of a Harry Potter set and fascinates children and parents alike, the more grown-up visitor can also enjoy tasting some of Italy’s finest white wines. The valley cycleway leads you past Fortezza and onwards down to Bolzano, where you can catch a train back to Nalles.

5. Nalles. After breakfast, end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total lenght: 80/100 km - Total vertical up: 250 - Terrain: 90 % asphalt The tour is centre-based and rated Easy, with a few short and unchallenging inclines. The route is largely along tarmacked cycleways and a small number of quiet roads. It is designed for cyclists who prefer flat terrain, an easy pace and stopping for frequent breaks. It is suitable for all levels of ability, including newcomers to a cycling holiday.

BY PLANE

Nalles is connected with the following airports (120-180 min.): Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN).

France

Orléans

ire Chambord

Amboise Tours Ussé

0 km

45

80

125

165

210

Cheverny

Villandry

Chitenay

ne

Indre

Azay le Rideau

en

Vi

Chinon

Blois

0m

Lo

Blois Saumur

200 m 100 m

F Loire

Amboise

Blois

Loire Valley A fairy tale freewheel

Chambord

Orléans, Unesco Heritage Site The gardens of Château de Villandry Goat cheese from Loire valley Sancerre, white wine

| 210 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Chitenay

|

Chenoncheaux

|

Bike & Family

PRICE PER PERSON

Chenonceaux

DAY BY DAY Ch

er

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Webcode

FR020

Season 1

490 €

BICYCLE RENT Girolibero bike

70 €

Child seat

free

Child trailer

80 €

FollowMe-tandem

70 €

Family tandem

140 €

Helmet

15 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Children 0-4 years

100%

5-12 years

50%

13-15 years

25%

Cat. A 3* Hotels (with swimming pool in Amboise and Chitenay).

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 30.04 - 24.09.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 30.04 - 24.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-daysHotline service, hotel taxes.

1. Blois. Individual arrival.

2. Blois–Amboise (45 km).

We saddle up for the start of a magical ride that today takes us along the River Loire as far as Amboise. Steeped in history, the atmospheric market town is celebrated for its château and the Clos-Lucé manor, where Leonardo lived for three years (and died) and where some of his remarkable inventions are on display. The 19th-century turtle fountain (topped by a teddy bear figure), the Clock Tower and the 7-level Chinese Pagoda all add to the town’s interest.

3. Amboise–Chenoncheaux (35 km).

We start the day cycling through the magnificent Forest of Amboise and into fields of wheat and barley. Our destination is the Château de Chenonceau, its gardens fabulously landscaped against the meandering River Cher. What better way to enjoy today’s exploration through verdant landscapes than astride our two-wheeled steeds. Expect some ups and downs shortly before Chenoncheaux (it is always possible to return by train).

4. Amboise–Chitenay (45 km).

Fields of wheat and poppy meadows scattered with centennial oaks: welcome to the fertile farmlands of Touraine. The scenery is dotted with delightful hamlets such as Fougères and Vallières-lesGrandes, and towered by majestic castles – among them Fougères-surBiévre – all awaiting your discovery. The picturesque route takes us largely along quiet roads and the only challenging climb is a 1km stretch right at the start.

5. Chitenay–Blois (40 km).

An easy ride takes you from Chitenay to charming Cellettes, a commune bathed by the placid River Beuvron, for a visit to the Renaissance Château de Beauregard. After traversing the enchanting Forest of Roussy, we come to the Loire and the town of Blois, which welcomes you with its elegant bridge, monuments, works of art and narrow alleyways tangled around its castle.

6. Blois–Chambord (45 km).

Today’s étappe leads us to one of the most famous and majestic of all Loire castles: Chambord. Leaving the hotel, we head for Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire, an ancient hamlet perched on the river.

From here we continue southwards into the heart of the countryside until we reach the castle’s surrounding forest.

7. Blois. After breakfast, end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 210 km - Total vertical up: 520 m - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2 Routes are devised with the younger traveller in mind and are predominantly on cycleways and quiet roads. They are designed in loops and can thus be modified at will.

BY PLANE

Blois is well connected with the following airports (120-210 min.): Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), Paris Beauvais (BVA) and Nantes (NTE).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

77

Roadbike

Intro

NICE PEOPLE LOVE CYCLING

78

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Intro

Roadbike

ROADBIKE Adrenaline and challenge In collaboration with former pro cyclist Andrea Ferrigato, whose silverware accounts for 17 international victories, we enriched this brochure with a section dedicated to all drop handlebar fans.

Pedal on the roads that have written the course of cycling history: the Dolomites, Piedmont, Tuscany, Flanders, Paris-Roubaix... Tours for thoroughbred sportsmen and sportswomen with a thirst for adrenaline and a challenge, but who also appreciate a touch of comfort: accommodation in carefully selected hotels, luggage transfer and backup from a specialist tour operator.

TRAVEL OPTIONS: Self-guided tours: You pedal on your own without guide or group, we book the accommodation and look after luggage transfer to the next hotel.

I Bellissimi: Excellence is the proper word for this kind of tours: exclusive holidays, following the most important ProTour events in Europe.

Tailormade: Our speciality! Once you have chosen the itinerary, we study the route and find accommodation; what’s more, a tour leader can join you, not only as a travel companion but also as technician and trainer.

See all the tours on www.roadbike.girolibero.com

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

79

Roadbike

|

|

Italy

Venice, a city made for walking and… losing yourself !

Dolomites, the Sella Ronda and the 4 Passes Speck, smoked pork from South Tyrol Kerner, white wine

| 510 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Ad ig

Belluno

Mestre

Venezia

Valdobbiadene Treviso

1400 m

Pi

av

e

Trento

2100 m 700 m 0m

e

Bolzano/Bozen

Belluno

Corvara/Kurfar P. Gardena Cortina D’Ampezzo P. Pordoi P. Giau P. Campolongo

Cortina

Dobbiaco/Toblach

Brunico

Bolzano

Corvara

Brunico/Bruneck

Sellaronda

Bolzano–Venice From the legendary Dolomites to the Adriatic Sea

Valdobbiadene Treviso

Br

Ad ig

e

ta

Sil

en

Lago di Garda

Mestre

e

DAY BY DAY

Venezia

MARE ADRIATICO

Chioggia

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Season 1

655 €

Season 2 supplement

55 €

Supplement SGL

198 €

BICYCLE RENT High-end road bike

200 €

Standard road bike with carbon fork

120 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Bolzano

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Mestre

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Venice ¹

DBL SGL

from 90 € from 150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

90 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels. ¹ on request 7th night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

80

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SU 1.05 - 17.07 and 21.08 - 25.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 1.05 - 25.06 and 5.09 - 25.09.2016 Season 2: 26.06 - 17.07 and 21.08 - 4.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, private transfer BolzanoCorvara/Brunico, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service.

1. Arrival in Bolzano.

2. Bolzano–Brunico–Dobbiaco (120 km, + 2,200 m, 6.30 h). Private transfer to Corvara, in the Sella Ronda park. Here 4 passes await you, ascents that have written the history of cycling.

Variant (80 km) without Sella Ronda.

3. Dobbiaco–Cortina (100 km, + 2,500 m, 6 h). You follow the cycle path along the Landro valley, at the foot of the three peaks of Lavaredo. A slightly uphill stretch, then down to Cortina d’Ampezzo and from here up again towards Falzarego Pass. The final ascent leads you to “His Majesty” the Giau.

Variant (70 km) without Falzarego Pass.

4. Cortina–Belluno (100 km, + 2,500 m, 5.30 h). Up again to Giau Pass: from here, an extremely fast downhill ride towards Selva di Cadore, then up to Staulanza Pass and Duran Pass. Today’s stage finishes in Belluno with a 40 km downhill run.

Variant (80 km) without Staulanza Pass.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local hotel taxes (approx. 10-15 €), GPS device.

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 60 € Mestre–Bolzano (bike included).

Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

5. Belluno–Valdobbiadene (70 km, + 1,000 m, 4 h). You pedal over slightly hilly terrain that recalls the Tuscan landscape and then arrive in Valdobbiadene, surrounded by the famous Prosecco vineyards.

6. Valdobbiadene–Treviso (70 km, + 1,000 m, 3.30 h). Up Montello on one of the many roads that lead to the top.

After the descent you come to Treviso.

On the way you go through Maser, where you can admire Villa Barbaro, a jewel of architecture by Andrea Palladio.

7. Treviso–Mestre–Venice (50 km, + 300 m, 2.30 h). You leave Treviso and follow the Sile River to Casale. In the end, Venice awaits you! You stay overnight in Mestre, but can book to stay in Venice, subject to a surcharge.

8. Mestre. After breakfast, end of services.

BY PLANE

Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) with the following airports: Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

Italy

2600 m

I

CH

P. Sella

P. Stelvio

1000 m

P. Gardena

Silandro/Schlanders

Canazei

Corvara P. Campolongo P. Pordoi

Ad ig

da Ad

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Variation

1

2

Season 1

520 €

1.280 €

SGL supplement

118 €

198 €

BICYCLE RENT High-end road bike

200 €

Standard road bike with carbon fork

120 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Bolzano

Cat. A DBL SGL

Cat. A 3/4* Hotels.

65 € 85 €

200 m

DAY BY DAY VARIATION 1 (5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS)

e

Bolzano/Bozen

Bolzano

1800 m

Merano/Meran

e Adig

P. Stelvio

A

Silandro

Bolzano

South Tyrol and the Dolomites A legendary tour

Merano

Bolzano Italy’s northern outpost town immersed in the Dolomites Stelvio Area with the Gavia, Mortirolo and Stelvio Passes Beef goulash Gewürztraminer white wine

| 240/470 km | 5 Days/4 Nights or 8 Days/7 Nights

Canazei

|

© Südtirol Marketing/Daniel Geiger

Corvara

|

© Südtirol Marketing/Daniel Geiger

Sellaronda

© Südtirol Marketing/Daniel Geiger

Roadbike

DEPARTURES SA 7.05 - 17.09.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 7.05 - 17.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 4/7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 15 €), GPS device.

TRANSFERS Transfers from/to airport: on request

1. Bolzano.

2. Bolzano–Silandro or back (60 km).

Warm up and enjoy the pleasure of pedalling without too much strain. Set out along the Adige Valley cycleway, skirting the Adige River and through a landscape carpeted with apple orchards.

Once in Merano, you can enjoy a sip or three of the local white wine or beer in the city centre. Back on your saddle for another 20 km and nightstop in Silandro.

3. Silandro–Stelvio Pass (90 km + 2,000 m). A day of legend awaits. Stelvio speaks for itself: the most celebrated – and probably feared – of all ascents in Italy, its name synonymous with the 48 bends of its tarmacked road. The summit sits at 2700 m, but not before 26 km of unbroken climb – its maximum incline numbering 11% over the last km. The views below are nothing but wondrous.

Finally for the day, you can enjoy the long descent, back down the same way, as far as Silandro.

4. Silandro–Bolzano (90 km + 1,700 m).

Head back to Bolzano from Silandro along the cycleway, passing through Merano. Climb to 1,300 m on the „Merano 2000“, a long panoramic road of continuous ups and downs, dotted with mountain hamlets.

5. Bolzano. After breakfast, end of tour.

enter the Gardena Valley. 35 km further up, at 2,300 m, sits the roof of the celebrated Gardena Pass. The descent into Badia Valley is speedy and spectacular. Overnight in Corvara (or in the vicinity).

6. Corvara/Badia Valley–Sella Ronda (55 km + 2,300 m). Four celebrated white-rock passes await you today: Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella and Gardena – all climbs that have etched their names into the history of cycling and the careers of aces such as Coppi, Bartali, Merckx, Pantani and Contador. Once back in Corvara and having conquered Sella Ronda, the steelier riders may wish to challenge the Giau Pass as well, along the route covered by the famous Dolomites Granfondo race. Overnight in Corvara (or in the vicinity).

7. Corvara/Badia Valley–Bolzano (105 km + 2.450 m). From Corvara ascend onto the Campolongo Pass before diving down and leaving behind the Badia Valley. 30 km on, the long descent leads you to the foot of the Marmolada Glacier, where the real climb starts with inclines touching 18%. From the summit, the views across the artificial lake and the Marmolada Glacier are nothing short of mystical. Take the Campolongo Pass back to Bolzano.

8. Bolzano.

After breakfast, end of tour.

VARIATION 2 (8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS)

BY PLANE

5. Bolzano–Corvara/Badia Valley (70 km + 2,000 m). Taking the Isarco valley and its attractive cycleway, you will skirt the river climbing gently northwards and

Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) with the following airports: Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN) and Venice (VCE).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

81

Bassano del Grappa Marostica

en

ta

Colli Berici Vicenza

Abano Terme

Monte Grappa

1000 m 500 m 0m

ta

en

Br

Vicenza

1500 m

Br

Treviso

Asiago

Conegliano

Asiago

Lago di Garda

Vicenza

Adi ge

Venice Lands Cycling in the road bike land

Colli Euganei

Vicenza and Palladio’s architecture Mount Grappa and its historic 27 km climb Asiago cheese, typical from Vicenza’s mountains Prosecco, white wine

| 620 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Lido di Venezia

|

Treviso

|

Italy

Montello

Roadbike

COLLI BERICI

Verona

Padova Abano Terme

Venezia

Mestre Laguna

MAR ADRIATICO

Teolo ge

i Ad

Arquà Petrarca Chioggia

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Season 1

655 €

Season 2 supplement

45 €

Supplement SGL

198 €

BICYCLE RENT High-end road bike

200 €

Standard road bike with carbon fork

120 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS

Cat. A

Vicenza/Treviso

DBL SGL

55 € 85 €

Mestre

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Venice ¹

DBL SGL

from 90 € from 150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

130 €

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels. ¹ on request 4th night of the tour in Venice instead of Mestre.

82

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA, SU 26.03 - 22.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 26.03 - 27.05 and 12.09 - 22.10.2016 Season 2: 28.05 - 11.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service, ticket for ferry transfer (bike not included, approx. 4 €) on day 5.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local hotel taxes (approx. 10-15 €), GPS device.

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Vicenza, a city of art and industry, it is where dozens of worldfamous companies are headquartered: Fizik, Selle Italia, Wilier, Campagnolo and many others.

2. Vicenza–Bassano del Grappa (120 km, + 1,500 m, 5 h). From Vicenza you cycle north towards Marostica: you pedal through the square where they play chess and up along the castle walls, heading for the high plain of Asiago.

(15 km at 6% that leaves you breathless, but with splendid scenery). The Valsugana cycle path takes you to Bassano.

3. Bassano del Grappa–Treviso (120 km, + 2,500 m, 6 h). Ascent to Monte Grappa, where epic battles were fought in the World War I, but also in the Giro d’Italia and in the historic race that has been run here since 1930: 27 km, a difference of 1,500 metres in altitude, with a central apparently flat stretch of 3.5 km. Long descent down to Valdobbiadene in the province of Treviso, through the Prosecco wine hills.

Variant (80 km). Without the Grappa ascent.

4. Treviso–Treviso (100 km, + 1,300 m, 4 h). A tough circular route with continual uphill–downhill stretches through the Montello and Prosecco hills. A visit to Vittorio Veneto before heading back to Treviso.

5. Treviso–Venice–Chioggia (80 km).

A flat route along the canals of the Sile River that head seawards. You cycle through Jesolo, a renowned summer tourist resort and come to Cavallino Treporti, where you take a ferry that

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

stops in Venice, Lido island, Pellestrina and Chioggia.

6. Chioggia–Abano Terme (100 km, + 1,000 m, 4 h). The stage starts with 40 km of flat cycling along the rivers to Monselice. From here you come to the Euganei Hills regional park, where you find continual ascents and descents and delightful little towns such as Arquà Petrarca. This stage ends in Abano Terme, a renowned spa resort.

7. Abano Terme–Vicenza (100 km, + 1,300 m, 4 h). Cycle to Ponte di Barbarano, where the road starts to rise and fall a dozen times, through the Colli Berici. Down towards Costozza and after a few km on the level, as you come into Vicenza, you can admire the marvellous Villa La Rotonda by Palladio.

8. Vicenza. Departure after breakfast.

BY PLANE

Vicenza/Mestre are well connected with the following airports: Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Treviso (TPS), Bergamo (BGY-150 min).

Italy

1200 m

Cima Veleno

800 m

Ad ige

Torri del Benaco

Salò

0m

Negrar Bardolino

Sirmione Desenzano

Mincio

PRICE PER PERSON Cat. A

Season 1

510 €

Season 2 supplement

80 €

Supplement SGL

198 €

BICYCLE RENT High-end road bike

200 €

Standard road bike with carbon fork

120 €

Helmet

15 € Cat. A

Peschiera

DBL SGL

55 € 85 €

Verona

DBL SGL

65 € 85 €

Cat. A 3* Hotel.

Adige

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

EXTRA NIGHTS

DAY BY DAY

Verona

Peschiera del Garda Solferino

Verona

400 m

Garda

Lago di Garda

Cima Veleno

Lago di Iseo

Peschiera Solferino

Lake Garda Peschiera roundtour

Negrar

Verona, the city of art and… shopping Cima Veleno, backbreaking climb with views to die for Olive oil from Garda Lake Valpolicella Classico, red wine

| 390 km | 7 Days/6 Nights

Bardolino Torri del Benaco

|

Salò Desenzano Sirmione

|

Roadbike

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR Every day 11.04 - 26.09.2016 SEASONS Season 1: 11.04 - 22.05 and 12.09 - 26.09.2016 Season 2: 23.05 - 11.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local hotel taxes (approx. 8 €), GPS device.

1. Individual arrival in Peschiera del Garda, a treasure trove of art and architecture surrounded by water.

2. Round tour (70 km, + 320 m, 3 h).

First day on the saddle through orchards and vineyards of Lugana, the still white local wine. You come to Solferino, site of the famous battle that marked the end of the Second War of Independence.

3. Peschiera del Garda–Desenzano del Garda–Salò (90 km, + 680 m, 4 h).

Today’s stretch takes you to Salò and continues with a round trip on gently rolling moraine hills. For those feeling under par, this town offers plenty of chances to relax on the lakeside.

4. Peschiera del Garda–Torri del Benaco (70 km, + 600 m, 3 h).

The road runs along the lakeside and rises northwards through the towns of Lazise, Bardolino and Garda. When you get to Torri del Benaco, you climb to Castion Veronese, with hills of olive trees keeping you company the whole way.

5. Peschiera del Garda–Negrar (70 km, + 680 m, 4 h). The road follows the Valpolicella valley, famous for its good wine and numerous wineries. After having tackled the great ascent that leads to Negrar, you can stop at the Colà spa and recharge your batteries with a swim.

6. Peschiera del Garda–Cima Veleno (90 km, + 1,390 m, 5 h). We follow the lakeside to Assenza di Brenzone, where the new Italian cyclist’s mecca starts:

Cima Veleno, an 8 km ascent with a gradient that reaches 20% at certain points. Down towards Garda, this beautiful town on the lake and then the same route back to Peschiera.

If you don’t want to tackle such a difficult climb you can go to Caprino Veronese and pedal up from Ferrara di Monte Baldo: here the view over Lake Garda is magnificent.

Another even easier alternative: cycle to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet and then enjoy a day’s retail therapy and culture.

7. Peschiera del Garda. After breakfast, end of services.

BY PLANE

Peschiera is very well connected to the following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice (VCE).

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Puccini 3* (or equivalent if not available) About 500 meters from the old town centre on the Lake Garda side promenade. Gardaland amusement park is located just 2.5 Kms from the hotel. All rooms are very big, bright, well furnished with the most modern comforts. Free parking and big pool garden.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

83

Tic

ino

Casale Monferrato

Torino

Po

700 m 400 m

ro

a Tan

Asti

ida

100 m

Alessandria

rm

Bo

Castellania Alba Acqui Terme

PRICE PER PERSON

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A

Season 1

620 €

Season 2 supplement

40 €

Supplement SGL

175 €

BICYCLE RENT High-end road bike

200 €

Standard road bike with carbon fork

120 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Alessandria

Cat. A DBL SGL

55 € 75 €

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels.

84

Casale Monferrato

Castellani

Po

Alessandria

Piedmont The ascents of Fausto Coppi

Revigliasco

Turin, the old italian Capital, a must-visit city The vineyard landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato Truffles, often served in traditional dishes Barbera, red wine

| 510 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Asti

|

Alba

|

Italy

Acqui

Roadbike

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 16.04 - 1.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 16.04 - 29.04 and 24.09 - 1.10.2016 Season 2: 30.04 - 23.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local hotel taxes (approx. 10 €), GPS device.

DAY BY DAY

1. Individual arrival in Alessandria, a city divided by the Tanaro River. Piazza della Libertà and Piazza Duomo, with its magnificent neoclassic cathedral, are truly worth a visit.

2. Alessandria–Castellania–Acqui Terme (90 km, + 660 m, 3.30 h).

The tour starts in Alessandria and takes you to Castellania, Fausto Coppi’s birthplace. You then take the road that leads to Novi Ligure with easy ascents up and over the hills of vineyards that produce the renowned Barbera and Dolcetto d’Acqui wines. In the evening you can relax in the warm spa waters of Acqui Terme.

3. Acqui Terme–Alba (100 km, + 2,100 m, 5 h). Three climbs await you on your journey through the Langhe, with gradients of up to 12%. One of these is the Gino Bartali ascent with its many holy sanctuaries surrounded by Dolcetto vineyards.

4. Alba–Asti (90 km, + 1,400 m, 4,30 h). Quiet roads through vineyards and hazelnut groves in the heart of Monferrato. Today we cross the Tanaro natural park and the Sarmassa natural reserve.

The stage ends in Asti with its monu-

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

ments and splendid Gothic cathedral.

5. Asti round tour (90 km, + 1,000 m, 4 h). A cycle through the Monferrato vineyards to reach Turin. The end stretch is a climb up the famous Superga hill, 7 km at 8%, followed by a lovely descent down into Turin, a must-visit city! Back to Asti by train.

6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (90 km, + 1,500 m, 4.30 h). You pedal northwards up to Monferrato, along a winding route with continual variations in steepness and steep climbs that at times are very similar to the Mur de huy ascent in the classic Flèche Wallonne.

7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria (50 km, + 500 m, 3 h). Our tour continues through green hills and farmed land, through small towns on the right-hand bank of the Po River and comes to an end in Alessandria.

8. Alessandria. After breakfast, end of services.

BY PLANE

Alessandria is well connected (60–180 min.) with the following airports: Torino (TRN), Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) and Milano Malpensa (MXP).

Italy

800 m

Firenze Pisa

Volterra

DAY BY DAY Siena

Lago Trasimeno Montalcino

Cat. A

Season 1

750 €

Season 2 supplement

60 €

Supplement SGL

198 €

BICYCLE RENT High-end road bike

200 €

Standard road bike with carbon fork

120 €

Helmet

15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Pisa

Cat. A DBL SGL

Montepulciano

GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

60 € 90 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels (sometimes a cosy 2* hotel in Lucca).

Pisa

0m

Arno

PRICE PER PERSON

Volterra

400 m

Vinci

MAR TIRRENO

Montalcino Montepulciano

1200 m

Lucca

Siena

Alpi Apuane

Lucca

Pisa

Tuscany The heroes’ hills

Vinci

Florence, cradle of the Italian Renaissance The Chianti hillsides and the unmade roads of Eroica Stewed wild boar Morellino di Scansano, red wine

| 620 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Firenze

|

Alpi Apuane

|

Roadbike

DEPARTURES SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.04 - 8.10.2016 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 9.04 - 6.05 and 25.09 - 8.10.2016 Season 2: 7.05 - 24.09.2016 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local hotel taxes (approx. 10-15 €), GPS device.

1. Individual arrival in Pisa.

2. Pisa–Lucca (70 km, + 960 m, 4 h).

You leave Pisa, heading for San Giuliano Terme, cycle around Monte Serra and tackle the ascent up the Buti side, the historic testing bench for professional cyclists such as Bartoli, Ulrich and Contador. The road climbs evenly and there is a unique view from the top: the Tyrrhenian Sea with the islands of Elba and Giglio. You then follow a slightly winding route towards Lake Massaciuccoli, ending this stage in wonderful Lucca.

3. Lucca–Apuan Alps–Lucca (130 km, + 1,300 m, 6 h). You leave Lucca for Camaiore, climbing gently to reach Massa Carrara. An ascent takes you into the heart of the Apuan Alps, a new peak of white rock offering a spectacular view over the Tyrrhenian Sea. You then cycle down, crossing the valley which takes you back to Lucca.

Variant (70 km) via Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi.

4. Lucca–Florence (100 km, + 610 m, 4 h). From Lucca the road seesaws up and down until a long descent takes you down to Vinci, Leonardo’s birthplace, where you can visit the museum dedicated to this genius.

Afterwards you tackle the Vittolini ascent that takes you to Florence.

5. Florence-Siena, along the Eroica (90 km, + 1000 m, 4 h). Leaving Florence along the River Arno, pedal towards Greve and Radda in Chianti among the iconic hills and vineyards of Chianti. The climbs are gentle (5% at most) and culminate with the spectacular white gravel roads of “Eroica” path. Arrival in

Siena’s Piazza del Campo.

6. Siena–Montalcino–Pienza–Siena (120 km, + 1,200 m, 5 h). A route that follows the Cassia road south to the wonderful town of Montalcino. After about 40 km, the ascent that takes you up to the town is intimidating, but it opens up into the most fabulous panorama. The rest will get you ready to tackle the next uphill–downhill stretch that takes you to Pienza and then back to Siena.

Variant (70 km).

7. Siena–Pisa (113 km, + 770 m, 4.30 h). Along the provincial road you come to Colle Val d’Elsa and then head towards San Gimignano, the marvellous city dominated by its medieval towers.

The stage brings you back to Pisa, where the round trip and your holiday finally come to an end.

8. Pisa. After breakfast, end of services.

BY PLANE

Pisa is well connected with the following airports: Pisa (PSA), Florence (FLR).

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Roadbike

I BELLISSIMI LEGENDARY ROAD BIKE VACATIONS

Excellence is the word here: hotels with a difference, a support vehicle always there for you, your specialist tour leader Andrea Ferrigato and participation in specific sports events. Giro d’Italia 2016, Stelvio and the Dolomites, Strade Bianche and many other tours are all awaiting your thirst for adrenaline and challenge!

I BELLISSIMI

TAILORMADE

THIS IS WHY YOU’LL SIMPLY LOVE THEM!

TOURS

1. Itineraries on the roads that have written the course of cycling history 2. Andrea Ferrigato as your travelling companion and trainer. “Ferri” can also help you to fine-tune any technical aspects of your cycling – as would happen within any professional team on a Pro Tour.

3. High-end bikes rental with carbon frame.

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Our premium-partner is Merida Bikes, the acclaimed brand that has sponsored the Pro Tour Team Lampre.

4. Carefully selected hotels 5. Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel 6. Support van following the group 7. Participation in specific sports events

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

Are you travelling with a group of friends or with your club?

Choose your destination, challenge us to create just the right tour for you, and… we’ll take you there!

Roadbike

FOLLOW US!

WHAT’S ON IN 2016

facebook.com/ girolibero.roadbike

Tour details and departure dates available on our website www.roadbike.girolibero.com

1

2

GIRO D’ITALIA

GRANFONDO STELVIO SANTINI

9 days/8 nights from 2.670 €

4 days/3 nights from 590 €

3

4

TENERIFE TRAINING EXPERIENCE

L’EROICA

8 days/7 nights from 1.880 €

4 days/3 nights from 1.000 €

5

STRADE BIANCHE 4 days/3 nights from 590 €

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

87

Brochure 2016

GENERAL CONDITIONS 1. INTRODUCTION: NOTION OF TOURIST PACKAGE Considering that: a) the operator and vendor of tourist packages, to whom the tourist makes a request, must be in possession of the administrative authorisation in order to carry out their activity. b) the tourist has the right to receive a copy of the tourist package sale contract (under art. 35 D.Lgs. 79/2011 of the Tourist’s Code) an essential document to get access to the National Guarantee Fund (art. 18 of these General Conditions).

The definition of tourist package (article 34 Tourist’s Code) is as follows: tourist packages have as their subject matter travel, holidays and “all inclusive” tours, which result from the pre-arranged combination of at least two of the following components, which must be sold or offered for sale at an inclusive price and cover a period of more than 24 hours or include at least one overnight accommodation: (a) transport; (b) accommodation; (c) other tourist services not ancillary to transport or accommodation (redacted)... and accounting for a significant proportion of the “tourist package”.

2. LEGISLATIVE SOURCES The purchase of a tourist package, either with services offered on national territory or abroad will be governed - up to its abrogation under art. 3 D.Lgs no.

79 dd. May 23rd, 2011 (Tourist’s Code) - by the Italian Law 27/12/1977 n°1084 in ratification and implementation of the International Convention on Travel Contracts (CCV) regarding travel contracts signed in Brussels on 23.04.1970 and also by Tourist’s Code (art(s). 32-51) and its subsequent modifications.

3. OBLIGATORY INFORMATION: TECHNICAL BRIEF The operator is obliged to provide either within the brochure or separately to it a technical brief. The details that must be included in the technical brief within the brochure or separately to it are: - details regarding the operator’s administrative authorisation; - details regarding the operator’s civil responsibility insurance policy; - period of validity of the brochure or programmes separate to the brochure or tailor made tour; - methods and conditions for transferral (Art. 39 of Tourist’s Code); - exchange rate used in the case of currency adjustments, days or value (Art. 40 Tourist’s Code).

4. BOOKINGS Reservation requests must be made on the appropriate contractual form filled in entirely and signed by the client.

Acceptance for the booking will be complete, with subsequent conclusion of the contract, only once the operator has sent confirmation, even by telemat-

88

ic means, to the client. Indications regarding the package that are not contained in the contractual documents, brochures or in other written means, will be provided in good time before the start of the journey by the operator in accordance with his obligations under art. 37 comma 2 of the Tourist’s Code.

5. PAYMENT A deposit of 25% of the price of the tourist package is to be paid at the moment of booking. The balance must be paid not later than 30 days preceding the intended departure date. In case of reservation after the above mentioned date the whole payment is due in the act of reserving the package. Failure to pay the sums indicated above by the established date constitutes an express termination clause such as to determine rightful termination by the operator.

6. PRICE The price of the tourist package is determined in the contract, and refers to the price indicated in the brochure or in the separate programmes, which have been added subsequently. The contract provides that price revisions can be made up to 20 days before the established departure date and solely to allow for variations in: - transportation costs, including the cost of fuel; - taxes or fees due for certain tourist services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports; - exchange rates applied to the package in question. For these variations reference will be made to the exchange rate and costs mentioned above in force on the date of publication of the programme as printed in the brochure technical brief or on the date printed in the above mentioned adjustments.

7. ALTERATIONS OR CANCELLATION OF A TOURIST PACKAGE BEFORE DEPARTURE Before the departure the operator or vendor who is forced to make significant alterations to one or more elements of the contract must give immediate notification in writing to the tourist indicating the type of alteration and the consequent variation in price.

If the alteration proposal is not accepted, the tourist can reserve the right to reclaim the amount already paid or receive an alternative tourist package in accordance with commas 2 and 3 of article 10. The tourist maintains the above rights also when cancellation is due to an insufficient number of participants required as stated in the brochure or in the separate programme, or due to force majeure and accidental cause, regarding the tourist package purchased. For cancellations which are not caused by force majeure or accidental cause or by insufficient number of participants, or reasons which are different

from those of the non acceptance by the tourist of the alternative tourist package offered, the operator who cancels (art. 33 letter e Consumer’s Code) will reimburse the tourist the double of what was paid to and received by the operator. The amount to be reimbursed can never be more than the double of the amount that the tourist would owe on that same date according to art. 10, comma 4 in the case the cancellation was done by the tourist himself.

8. WITHDRAWAL BY TOURIST The tourist may withdraw in writing from the contract, without penalty only in the following cases: - increase in the price as mentioned in art. 6 greater than 10%; - significant changes of one or more of the elements of the contract, which are objectively considered fundamental to the fruition of the tourist package either proposed after conclusion of the contract but before departure and not accepted by the tourist.

In the above cases the tourist has the right to alternatively: - receive an alternative tourist package, without paying a supplement and with the reimbursement of excess cost, in the case that the second package has an inferior value to the first; - reimbursement of only the sums already paid. Such reimbursement must be carried out within seven working days from the receipt of the reimbursement request.

The tourist must communicate his decision (of acceptance of the alteration or of withdrawal) within and not after two working days from the moment he receives notice of the increase or alteration. If no communication is made within these limits, the proposal formulated by the operator is to be considered as accepted. The tourist who withdraws from the contract before departure for reasons other than those listed in comma 1 or in the case considered under art. 7, comma 2, will be charged independently from the payment of a deposit as in art.5 - with the individual cost of the organisation and the penalty in the amount indicated in the brochure technical brief or programme or tailor made tours. In the case of pre-formed groups these amounts will be agreed on a case by case basis at the moment of the signing of the contract.

CANCELLATION FEES If the customer withdraws from the contract he is anyway obliged to pay the registration fee which is Euro 30 per person in 2016. The calculation of the days does not include the day of withdrawal. A declaration of withdrawal must be made in writing within the deadline of one working day prior to the booked departure date: a) withdrawal until 30 days preceding the departure date: 20% of the total amount

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

b) withdrawal from 29 until 22 days preceding the departure date: 25% of the total amount c) withdrawal from 21 until 15 days preceding the departure date: 50% of the total amount d) withdrawal from 14 until 8 days preceding the departure date: 70% of the total amount: e) withdrawal from 7 until 1 day preceding the departure date: 95% of the total amount f) on departure day and and no-show: 100%.

For the Bike & boat tours the following cancellation fees apply: a) withdrawal until 90 days preceding the departure date: 10% of the total amount b) withdrawal from 89 until 60 days preceding the departure date: 40% of the total amount c) withdrawal from 59 until 30 days preceding the departure date: 60% of the total amount d) withdrawal from 29 until 7 days preceding the departure date: 85% of the total amount e) withdrawal from 6 until 1 day preceding the departure date: 95% of the total amount and f) on departure day and no-show: 100%.

The same amounts apply to the customer, even if the missed departure is due to the lack or imprecision of the necessary personal documents. No refund is due to the customer who does not show up at the place of accommodation or in the case of cancellation during the the program stay.

ALTERATION OF THE BOOKING For each and any kind of alteration of the already booked tourist package the customer is obliged to pay an administrative fee of Euro 30 per person.

A reduction in participants will be considered a cancellation and therefore subject to the cancellation fees as mentioned above. The operator is not obliged to fulfil any customer's alteration request of an already booked tourist package if he is not able to meet the customer's requirements.

9. ALTERATIONS AFTER DEPARTURE After departure, should the operator find himself in a position of not being able to offer, for whatever reason, except for a personal reason of the tourist, an essential part of the services included in the contract, he must offer alternative solutions, without additional cost to the price paid by the tourist and, if the services offered are of a lower value than those foreseen, the customer must be reimbursed exactly for the difference. In the case that no alternative solution is possible, or rather the solution of the operator is refused by the tourist for justifiable serious reasons, the operator will at no extra cost, provide the tourist with

Brochure 2016

equivalent transport back to the place of departure or to another pre-agreed place depending on availability of the means and places. In this case the operator will compensate the tourist for the difference between the services to be supplied under the contract and those supplied to the moment of the early return.

10. TRANSFER OF BOOKINGS The tourist who withdraws may transfer his booking to another person provided that: a) the operator has been informed in writing at least 4 working days before the established departure date and also at the same time receives communication regarding all the details of the transferee; b) the transferee satisfies all the conditions to benefit from the service (ex.

Article 39 Tourist’s Code) and in particular with requisites regarding passports, visas and medical certificates; c) the transferee must reimburse the operator any extra costs that he may incur in order to proceed with the transferral. The amount will be quantified prior to the transferral. The transferor and the transferee shall be jointly and severally liable for the payment of the price of the package and also to the amounts in point c) of the present article.

11. OBBLIGATIONS FOR THE TOURISTS Foreign citizens will find the information concerning health requirements and documentation necessary for expatriation through their diplomatic representatives present in Italy and/or through official government information channels. In any case, before departure the tourists must check any updates with the relevant authorities and come into line with the information received before the tour starts. In the absence of such verification the operator cannot in any way be held responsible if one or more tourists do no depart. The tourists must be in possession of a personal passport or some other document valid for travel in the countries to be visited, as well as any tourist and transit visas and health certification that might be required. They must also respect the normal rules of prudence and diligence, all information provided to them by the operator and also any regulations and administrative or legislative requirements regarding their travel and tourist package. The participants will be liable for all and any damages that may be incurred by the holiday operator that may be caused by their failure to respect the above conditions.

Tourists must provide the operator with all documents, information and other elements in their possession required for the exercise of operator’s right of subrogation with regard to third parties responsible for damages. The tourists is liable towards the operator for any compromise to the right of subrogation. The tourist must also inform the operator in writing, at the

moment of booking, of any special personal requests that may be the subject of specific agreements on details of the holiday (pregnancy, food intolerances, disabilities, etc.), as long as the implementation of these requests is possible.

12. HOTEL CLASSIFICATION The official category of hotels is described in the brochure or with alternative informative material only on the basis of explicit and formal indications by the competent authorities in the country where the service is provided.

In the absence of official recognised classification of the competent Public Authorities of the countries, even if members of the EU, the operator reserves the right to their own description in the catalogue or brochure of the structure in order to permit an evaluation and subsequent acceptance of it by the tourist.

13. REGIME OF RESPONSIBILITY The operator is responsible for damage caused to the tourist by the total or partial breach of contractual services owed, whether they are offered by him or by third party suppliers of services, unless proof can be given that the event derived from the tourist (also including initiatives carried out independently by the tourist) or by external circumstances in supplying contractual services, accidental cause, force majeure, or from circumstances that the operator could not, professionally or realistically foresee or resolve. The vendor where the booking for the tourist package was made is not held responsible under any circumstances for obligations that arise from the organisation of the journey, but is responsible exclusively for the obligations that arise from the quality of mediation and therefore in the limits for such responsibility in respect of the legal obligations in force, except for the exemption under art. 46 Tourist’s Code.

14. LIMITS FOR COMPENSATION Compensations under art(s). 44, 45 and 47 of the Tourist’s Code and relevant limitation periods are regulated by what is considered in this document and in any case within the limits established, by the C.C.V., by the International Conventions, which regulate the services of the tourist package as well as by art.(s) 1783 and 1784 of the Civil Code.

15. OBLIGATION FOR ASSISTANCE The operator must give assistance to the tourist with professional diligence and exclusively with reference to the obligations cited both by law and by contract. The operator and the vendor are exonerated from their responsibilities (articles 13 and 14 of these General Conditions) when the contract cannot be carried out in part or completely due to the tourist or due to an unforeseeable or inevitable action by a third party, or rather fortuitous or by force majeure.

16. COMPLAINTS AND REPORTS Any failure in the enforcement of the contract must be contested by the tourist without delay during the tour so that the operator, his local representative or assistant can rectify the situation as quickly as possible. Otherwise the compensation will be reduced or excluded under art. 1227 C.C. The tourist must - on penalty of loss of any right to claims – make a written complaint by registered letter, with receipt of delivery, to the operator or the vendor no later than 10 working days after the date of return to the original place of departure.

17. INSURANCE AGAINST CANCELLATION EXPENSES AND REPATRIATION It is advisable for the tourist to draw up an insurance policy against expenses deriving from the cancellation of the package tour, incidents, luggage (loss and damage) as well as an assistance contract, which covers the expenses of repatriation in case of accident or illness. Insurance policies are not included in our tour package offered by the operator.

18. NATIONAL GUARANTEE FUND (art. 51 Tourist’s Code) The Presidency of the Council of Ministers has constituted a National Guarantee Fund to which tourists may apply (under the terms of Art. 100 of the Consumer’s) in the case of insolvency or bankruptcy of vendors or operators, for the protection of the following rights: - reimbursement of price paid; - repatriation in case of holidays abroad.

The fund must also ensure immediate availability of economic assistance in the case of obligatory return of holiday makers from non-European Union countries due to emergencies ascribable or otherwise to the conduct of the operator. The details of the use of the fund are governed by Decree of the President of the Council of Ministers dated 23 July 1999. no. 349 G.U.n° 249 dated 12/10/1999 and the reimbursement requests to the fund are not subject to any time limits. The operator concurs in nurturing this fund in so far as established by the comma 2 of the mentioned art. 51 Tourist’s Code by paying the premium of the insurance, which the operator is obliged to take out. Part of this premium is paid into the fund, the payment method is indicated by art. 6 of the DM 349/99.

ADDENDUM GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR CONTRACTS SALE OF SINGLE TOURIST SERVICES A) LEGISLATION Contracts regarding the sale of single services (accommodation, transport, any separate tourist service) and those therefore that do not regard a tourist package, are governed by Travel Contracts CCV art. 1, 3 and 6, arts. 17 to 23 and arts. 24 to 31 with the exclu-

sion of references regarding contracts for organised travel or from other specific stipulations referring to the sale of single services in the contract. The vendor, who provides for a third party, even in a telematic way, a separated tourist service, has to issue to the tourist the documents for the provided service, showing the amount paid for it, and cannot in any way be considered a tour operator.

B) CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT The following clauses of the general contractual conditions can be applied to these above mentioned contracts: art. 6 comma 1; art. 7, comma 2; art.

13 and art. 18. The application of these clauses does not render these contracts in any way those of a tourist package. The terms used in said clauses regarding contract for tourist packages (operator, travel etc) must be considered in reference to the corresponding figures of the purchasing contract for the single tourist services (vendor, accommodation etc.).

COMPULSORY NOTE According to the Italian Law n.269 dated 3/10/98, article 16. The Italian Law punishes the crimes concerning prostitution and juvenile pornography by means of reclusion even if these crimes are committed abroad.

PRIVACY Information regarding ex art. 13 of the Legislative Decree 196/2003 (legal code regarding personal data). The processing of personal data is carried out both on paper and digitally, in compliance with the Legislative Decree 196/2003, in order to perform and conclude the contract and for the implementation of the services that constitute the tourist package. Personal data will be given solely to the suppliers of the services included in the tourist package purchased.

The tourist may at any time exercise his/her rights under art. 7 of the Legislative Decree 196/03 by contacting Girolibero informally, by telephone, or at info@girolibero.com TECHNICAL DATA Brochure valid from December 2015 to December 2016.

Technical organisation: GIROLIBERO SRL exerts the activity as travel agency and tour operator in Via Conforto da Costozza, 7 - Vicenza, Italy Fiscal Code 03794470249 Registred with no. VI-354659 at the companies registration list in Vicenza.

Aut. Amm. of the province of Vicenza n° 22507 of 26/03/2013 Insurance guarantee: UnipolSai Assicurazioni no. 1/72935/319/40173402.

All prices are in Euro.

The printing ends in October 2015, changes might appear beyond our control. We apologize for any printing errors or omissions.

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

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Brochure 2016

HOW TO BOOK 1

SAVING TIPS 2016*

CHOOSE YOUR TOUR on the website www.girolibero.com or on this brochure.

1

2 CONTACT US to check the availability (with all details) and to receive an exact quotation.

3 RECEIVE AN OPTION If it is possible to book the desired tour, you will receive a non-binding option for few days.

2

3

4 SEND US YOUR BOOKING Within this time send us the booking form (p. 91) and a copy of the deposit (25% of the total amount of the tour price).

You can pay per credit card or per bank transfer on our account.

4

5

6

6

7

90

Early booking discount (by 29th Feb. 16)

-3%

Group discount (from 6 people)

-3%

Group discount (from 8 people)

-5%

Returning customer discount (from your 3rd tour) **

-5%

* Valid only on basic tour price and only for tours of min. 6 nights.

Discounts are not cumulative if you book a Bike&Boat tour in high season. ** extra 1% discount for any additional tour

CONTACT US: Telephone: +39 0444 330724 TollFree US/Canada: 1-800-347-0178 Fax: +39 0444 167930 info@girolibero.com BANK ACCOUNT: Girolibero SRL Banca Popolare Friuladria-Crédit Agricole IBAN: IT54B0533660165000040277489 BIC/SWIFT: BPPNIT2P189 Reference: Name of the travel applicant + tour or webcode.

Iban: ...................

Bic: .....................

Banca: ................

Causale: .............

SEND US THE BALANCE 30 days before the departure. (Please note the date in your agenda – Girolibero will NOT remind you to do it).

RECEIVE THE TRAVEL DOCUMENTS After the payment we will send you the hotel list and the general travel information per e-mail. The travel documents will be sent by post (EU countries) or delivered on site.

-5%

Read all details on: www.girolibero.com

5 WE WILL SEND YOU THE BOOKING CONFIRMATION after receiving the deposit.

Early booking discount (by 31st Jan. 16)

7

Girolibero - tel. +39 0444 330724 - TollFree US/Canada 1-800-347-0178 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com

BOOKING FORM I book the following tour for myself and the the participants mentioned below: Tour and category ........................................................................................................................................................... Webcode ..........................

Departure .......................................................................................................................... o Treatment

o Bed&Breakfast

o Half Board

self-guided tour

guided tour

o

o Full Board

N째 of rooms/cabins Single ..........

Double ..........

Twin ..........

Triple ..........

4 places ..........

Twin superior ..........

Triple superior ..........

4 places superior ..........

Other type of cabin (Ave Maria only) Double superior ..........

Bunk beds ..........

Extra nights

in ......................................................................................................... from ....................................... to ...................................... in ......................................................................................................... from ....................................... to ...................................... from ..................................................................... to .....................................................................

Travel applicant

on .....................................

Bikes

Unisex bike

Height

Male bike

Own

Helmet

Name, Surname

Date and place of birth

7 gears*

27 gears**

ElectroRad***

7 gears*

27 gears**

..........

o

o

o

o

o

o

o

..........

o

o

o

o

o

o

o

..........

o

o

o

o

o

o

o

..........

o

o

o

o

o

o

o

Full address

E-mail, Mobile, Telephone Sign up for newsletter

o yes

o no

Participants

Name, Surname, Date of birth

E-mail, Mobile

Name, Surname, Date of birth

E-mail, Mobile

Name, Surname, Date of birth

!

E-mail, Mobile * Nexus Shimano with pedal brake. Available only for some tours and on request. ** Deore Shimano without pedal brake. Available for any tour. *** Available only for some tours and on request.

I pay through

o Bank transfe

o Credit card

I accept the general conditions for myself and the above mentioned participants.

Place ...................................................... Date ....................................................

Signature ..................................................................................

Girolibero SRL - Via Conforto da Costozza 7 -36100 Vicenza, Italy -Tel: 0039 0444 330724 - Fax: 0039 0444 167930 - info@girolibero.com - www.girolibero.com - Vat number 03794470249

Transfer

South Tyrol ...

Italy with a twist

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Bolzano Bozen

South Tyrol is Italy at its best – with a dash of Alpine influence. Over 600 km of cycling trails from paved routes, forest tracks, challenging ascents and endurance trails through rocky pathways all set against the dramatic backdrop of the magnificent Dolomites. Add to that, 300 days of sunshine a year, delicious food fusing Italian and Alpine influences, fine regional wines and 19 Michelin star restaurants – more than anywhere else in Italy – it’s clear to see why South Tyrol is Italy with a Twist. www.suedtirol.info

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