The art of escape on two wheels.
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For every cyclist, planning a trip is an exciting time, the ideal opportunity to create an amazing riding adventure and to think about building fitness. Rapha Travel has expanded its range of trips for 2016, with trips to suit every kind of rider and fulfil any riding ambition you may have. Over the last five years we have honed our core Randonnées and Retreats to ensure the riding and service is better than anything else you will find. That experience has informed our new trips for 2016, each carefully put together to offer something truly special. Rapha’s new ‘Ascent’ trips are the perfect way to bag a mythical col, such as the Stelvio or Mont Ventoux. The new Rapha ‘Raids’, meanwhile, combine a generous dose of exploration with a sense of freedom as you take in some of the finest riding terrain in the world. And if you can only spare a few days away from work or family, our new weekend formats allow you to pack in some exceptional riding amid glorious scenery, so that you arrive back at your desk on Monday refreshed and inspired. The staff at Rapha Travel are the best in the business. They combine experience and knowledge of each destination with a passion for riding and service. They take great pleasure in showing Rapha customers their favourite roads and secret detours. And, with a new fleet of Rapha support vehicles and impressive new Canyon bikes at your disposal, an unforgettable ride is guaranteed with Rapha Travel. Every year, the days I treasure most are those spent on my bike, on the world’s most spectacular roads, in the company of my friends and Rapha colleagues. Many of those rides have inspired the trips you will find in this brochure. I hope you find them as compelling as I do. Best wishes, Simon Mottram rapha founder and ceo
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RIDE WITH US IN 2016
contents
A love of the road is at the heart of everything Rapha does, and Rapha Travel is central to the way we want to share our passion. Rapha Travel creates unique riding experiences – unforgettable trips that take in amazing roads, landscapes and hallowed climbs. Experience with us the rhythms of the road and warm days stretching ahead to the horizon. Find space to play, time to relax, limits to push and mountains to conquer; hard effort and deep satisfaction, pain and triumph, coffee stops on col tops, new friendships and great memories. And thanks to unparallelled support from our knowledgeable and experienced team, all you have to do is get on your bike, take to one of our carefully crafted routes, and pedal.
Our trips 08 Meet the team 11 RandonnĂŠe 23 Raid 35 Ascent 45 Retreat 53 Pro Team Camp 61 Cent Cols Challenge 71 Bespoke 76 Calendar 06
If you have any questions, or would like to book an adventure with us, please email: travel@rapha.cc 6
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NEW FOR 2016 The 2016 season is Rapha Travel’s biggest yet. With new types of trips, new destinations and more flexibility, we have something to suit every kind of rider, whether you’re looking for a revitalising break, a training-focused camp, or a freewheeling adventure. Join us for a weekend getaway, or a 10-day odyssey across entire mountain ranges, in both classic and lesser-known destinations. There are options designed for a range of budgets, but all our trips come with Rapha’s signature service. From luxurious châteaux to rustic farmhouse-style accommodation, everything on a Rapha Travel trip has been selected because it is special. r andonnées
new for 2016: pro team camps
The signature Rapha Travel trip: point-to-point routes on legendary roads, in comfort and style.
Get in shape like the pros, preparing mind and body for the season ahead.
from: £2,100 | $3,300 | €2,900
from: £1,300 | $2,000 | €1,800
new for 2016: r aids
cent cols challenge
Choose the road less travelled and focus on the self-sufficient riding that these trips emphasise.
Attempt the ultimate cycling feat: 100 cols in 10 days. Unforgettably tough but wholly rewarding.
from: £1,000 | $1,600 | €1,400
from: £2,500 | $3,800 | €3,400
new for 2016: ascents
bespoke
Conquer one of cycling’s most legendary climbs on a focused, weekend break.
Create your own custom trip, using Rapha’s unrivalled knowledge of the best cycling destinations.
from: £1,100 | $1,700 | €1,500
retreats
contact
Recharge and improve your fitness in luxurious comfort, in a single location in a classic destination.
If you have any questions, or would like to book an adventure with us, please email: travel@rapha.cc
from: £1,400 | $2,200 | €1,900 8
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MEET THE TEAM When you travel with Rapha you should expect the best service in the world. The staff at Rapha Travel are experienced, extremely knowledgable and attentive. They’re there to look after you and to meet any needs you may have, from before breakfast until the last light is out. We depend on them to make your experience unforgettable, and they’re the best in the industry.
guides
ben lieberson Guide
james heraty Operations
brad sauber Head of Travel
mattia bettagno Mechanic
anton blackie Guide
dana martin Guide
joe frost Soigneur
barney ingram Guide
phil deeker Ride leader
Your road captain, your domestique and your conversation partner, our experienced guides know the regions and the roads we ride: they’ll find you the best pastries and the little espresso stop, or a rain jacket when the weather turns, and keep you pedalling uphill in good humour whether you’re at the front or the back of the pack. If you need anything on the road, they’re your first point of call.
mechanics Whether you’re on a high-end Rapha Travel hire bike or your own handmade steed, our mechanics will keep you rolling smoothly. Many of them have worked with pro teams, or in the world’s top bike stores. During the day, they’ll be on hand in the support car to deal with any incidents on the road; in the evenings, they’ll wash and tinker with your bike so it’s in top condition for the next day.
soigneurs All our soigneurs are highly qualified physios or chiropractors, and will treat your legs each evening to a pro-level massage that will soothe the day’s aches away and leave you ready for the next challenge. During the day, they’ll provide you with nutritious food, bars or bidons, to make sure you get to your destination. 10
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R A NDONNﾃ右 The perfect point-to-point cycling adventure.
r andonnée
Let us challenge and inspire you, and fuel your passion for cycling. Using our vast experience of road riding and our love of the history of the sport, we have created Rapha Randonnées: point-to-point itineraries in cycling’s classic territories, and in select destinations across the world. Take on mythical climbs in the Alps, Pyrenees and Dolomites, or cycle the road less travelled through the beautiful landscapes of Japan, California or Corsica. For 2016, we are offering the Classic Randonnée and the longer, tougher Grande Randonnée. Whichever you choose, you will experience the same levels of service and support. Rapha Travel team cars and experienced guides will be on hand with local knowledge, a morale-boosting chat or a full bidon every pedal-stroke of the way. And, at the end of the day, you’ll simply hand your bike over to our mechanics, who will return them in top condition the next morning. In the evenings all you have to do is enjoy your appointment with our pro-level soigneur, sample the regional wines and cuisine, and relax in our carefully chosen accommodation.
who is it for?
all r andonnées include:
Rapha Randonnées offer a real challenge, often climbing the same cols used in the biggest races in the world. But because they’re fully supported, they can be enjoyed by everyone, from veteran riders with years of experience to relative newcomers who have put in the training and committed themselves to achieving something special. On a Grande Randonnée, expect longer days, more technical climbs and descents, and terrain that is more mixed.
Airport transfers and daily baggage transfers between hotels, double-occupancy rooms, high guide-to-client ratios, unique routes, expert planning and ride support from guides and vehicles, all meals and on-bike nutrition, daily massage and top-level mechanics, laundry, pre-trip discounts on Rapha apparel. Flights and single-occupancy accommodation are extra.
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classic r andonnée
classic r andonnée
ALPS
CORSICA
12th – 19th June 24th – 31st July
4th – 10th September Corsica’s colourful Italian and French history and rebellious independent spirit make this beautiful island feel a world away from mainland France. With 1,000 kilometres of unspoilt palm-fringed coastline, its spine of wild, rugged mountains soaring to 3,000m, and an almost unlimited choice of challenging, winding roads – not to mention a robust and delicious local cuisine – it’s an utterly seductive destination for cyclists.
The Rapha Randonnée Alps starts at Lake Geneva and heads south, over the most historic climbs of the Tour de France and some of the most majestic mountain passes in the world, before arriving in Nice on the chic Côte d’Azur. These are the roads on which heroes are made and Tours won and lost, where the pain and suffering of a 30km climb are eased by jaw-dropping views and seemingly endless descents on beautiful, smooth roads.
from: £3,000 | $4,800 | €4,100
from: £3,400 | $5,300 | €4,700
classic r andonnée
classic r andonnée
CHIANTI AND APPENNINI
DOLOMITES
8th – 15th May The Rapha Randonnée Chianti and Appennini traverses Italy, connecting two seas via some of the most incredible roads in Europe. Test yourself in the mountains that were once the training ground of the legendary Marco Pantani, hit the famous strade bianche, and climbs made famous by the Giro d’Italia. Few locations offer such tests and treats in equal measure; in addition to spectacular riding, you will be rewarded with worldclass food and wine and find time to absorb the unique culture of towns like Ascoli and Siena.
3rd – 10th July 11th – 18th September We consider this our signature Rapha Randonnée, the perfect mix of spectacular riding, food and culture. It sets off from the breathtaking Cison di Valmarino and winds its way north, through characteristically bare and jagged peaks in the Südtirol, to the shores of Lake Como. Along the way, randonneurs will cross some of the Giro d’Italia’s most renowned passes and sample the Südtirol’s unique cuisine and culture. from: £3,400 | $5,300 | €4,700
from: £3,000 | $4,800 | €4,100 16
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classic r andonnée
classic r andonnée
PYRENEES
SAN FRANCISCO– SANTA BARBARA
18th – 25th September The gold-standard Rapha Randonnée that takes riders through one of the world’s most famous and majestic mountain ranges, and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. The route straddles the border of France and Spain, mixing cultures and cuisines with spectacular riding. Among a cast of stellar climbs, the Col du Tourmalet, together with the Aspin, Aubisque and Peyresourde, offers riders a direct road to the heart of cycling’s legends.
17th – 22nd January 31st January – 5th February Pacific views, quiet roads and some the finest coastal climbing in the US – the quintessential Californian experience. Starting at the Rapha Cycle Club in the lee of the Golden Gate Bridge, the ride follows the iconic Route One for much of the way, through Big Sur and into the little-known Santa Ynez valley. Riders will dine on the finest cuisine and wines of the Central Coast.
from: £3,400 | $5,300 | €4,700
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from: £2,100 | $3,300 | €2,900
classic r andonnée
gr ande r andonnée
PYRENEES ATLANTIQUE
LOS ANGELES– SAN DIEGO
26th June – 3rd July 21st – 28th August
24th April – 1st May 9th – 16th October 6th – 13th November
A real treat awaits you on the Rapha Randonnée Pyrenees – Direction Atlantique, with a stunning route of alternative climbs and vistas in the route book. Starting in a baroque folly of a chateau near the Mediterranean we traverse the Pyrenees west towards the Second Empire grandeur of buzzing Biarritz, via classic Tour climbs and plenty of hidden gems. A true test even for a seasoned randonneur, but one that will make you appreciate these stunning mountains in a different light.
This Grande Randonnée pieces together celebrated sections of the Tour of California and routes from Rapha’s own Continental rides and Gentlemen’s Races. From LA it snakes north before looping back, taking in remote inland climbs and stunning coastal roads. The famous Palomar Mountain Road and infamous Mount Baldy both make an appearance, as do California’s exceptional culinary offerings.
from: £3,400 | $5,300 | €4,700
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gr ande r andonnée
special departure
JAPAN
SHIMANAMI K AIDO
24th April – 1st May 4th – 11th September 18th – 25th September
2nd – 5th May 12th – 15th September 26th – 29th September
Starting in the megalopolis of Tokyo, this Grande Randonnée heads south through verdant, dense forests, on perfect pavement barely wide enough for a car, and riders will discover that Japan’s undulating, sometimes mountainous, terrain rivals the best anywhere. In the evening, as in the day, riders will sample the best Japan has to offer: hot springs, local food, traditional lodgings and hospitable people. We finish in the stylish city of Kyoto, renowned for its temples and vibrant geisha culture.
Nowhere rivals Japan when it comes to offering an abundance of incredible experiences in a small amount of space, a fact proven on this special departure. Climb the steep, maple-lined switchbacks around Kyoto, eat local oysters, bathe in hot springs and ride the Shimanami Kaido, the 60km cyclefriendly series of spectacular bridges that link Japan’s Honshu and Shikoku islands. This trip has been designed to connect with the Grande Randonnée Japan, so riders can, if they choose, merge the two, for the complete Japanese cycling experience.
from: £3,400 | $5,200 | €4,700
from: £1,300 | $2,000 | €1,800
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R AID A pure cycling adventure.
r aid
Reconnect with your love for the bike and exploration. Raids are designed for independent riders with a thirst for going off the beaten track, and exploring lesser-known but nonetheless spectacular destinations and roads. You’ll still have access to a Rapha guide, full mechanical and logistical support, but the emphasis is on self-sufficiency, and creating your own adventure on unknown roads through wild and unspoilt landscapes. Each night we’ll greet you with hearty food and charming, rustic accommodation, to prepare you for another day’s exploring. This is cycling taken back to the essentials: a bike, a fantastic route to ride, and the self-imposed challenges that brings. Weekend Raids, meanwhile, compress the adventure, helping even time-starved riders escape from everyday life.
who is it for?
all r aids include:
Because of the emphasis on challenging terrain and self-sufficiency, Raids suit the more confident, athletic rider, or groups of friends who may already have done a multi-day trip and want to challenge themselves further.
Double-occupancy rooms, daily baggage transfers between hotels, 1:7 guide-to-client ratios, unique routes in remote terrain, expert planning and some ride support from guides and vehicles, all except one or two meals (depending on trip length), all on-bike nutrition, top-level mechanics, pre-trip discounts on Rapha apparel. Flights, some airport transfers, alcohol and single-occupancy accommodation are extra.
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weekend r aid
weekend r aid
CHIANTI
CÔTE D’AZUR
15th – 18th September
7th – 10th April 5th – 8th May 22nd – 25th June
Chianti is a land of olive oil and wine, rolling brown hills, misty valleys and fortified hilltop towns. Home to beautiful tarmac and winding gravel roads, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend cycling break. Join us to ride the famous strade bianche and climbs of the Giro d’Italia, and to experience the cultural hotspots of Siena and San Gimignano and dine on local cuisine – some of the best ride fuel in the world.
Pro cyclists choose to live on the Côte d’Azur for good reason; some of the best roads in Europe, a fantastic climate, and the proximity to a major airport – which all make this a perfect weekend cycling destination. We’ll whisk you away for four days hard riding, during which you’ll tackle famous climbs like the Col d’Èze and the Col de la Madone, and deserted, lesser-known gems just a stone’s throw from the sea. We’ll also dip into Italy. Coffee, great pizza, sunshine - the complete cycling experience.
from: £1,000 | $1,600 | €1,400
from: £1,100 | $1,700 | €1,500
weekend r aid
weekend r aid
CORSICA
GIRONA
15th – 18th September
21st – 24th April 7th – 10th October
Corsica’s spine of rugged mountains rises sheer out of the emerald-blue Mediterranean. Crisscrossed by tiny deserted roads that wind over cols and down gorges, they offer some of the purest and most inspiring riding in the world. Moving between the coastal gem of Calvi and Corte, capital of the interior, we’ll ride dramatic roads and untouched climbs, while sampling the vibrant culture, hearty cuisine and fiercely independent spirit of the Île de Beauté. from: £1,000 | $1,600 | €1,400
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There are more than enough stunning roads around the cycling haven of Girona to keep even the local pro-rider population happy, and this weekend will show you the best. A concentrated dose of amazing riding and fine local cuisine, you’ll be able to test your legs on the famous Rocacorba to see how you measure up to local residents such as Adam and Simon Yates. Relish the mountain views, the easy rolling roads to the Costa Brava and the sparkling Mediterranean sea. from: £1,000 | $1,600 | €1,400
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weekend r aid
SOUTHERN ALPS 30th June – 3rd July Discover the stunning cols of the Southern Alps during four days’ riding over some of the world’s greatest cycling roads. This mountainous Raid culminates in the Col de la Bonette, the highest paved road in Europe (2,802m). While a challenging route, the rugged, sublime panoramas throughout will help keep your mind off your effort, as we head towards a glittering finale on the Côte d’Azur. That last dip in the ocean will be fully deserved. from: £1,100 | $1,700 | €1,500
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r aid
r aid
MASSIF CENTRAL
SOUTHERN UTAH
7th – 12th August
8th – 14th May 2nd – 8th October
The Massif Central is France’s forgotten mountain region: its little-known cols, breathtaking river gorges and densely wooded hills offer spectacular riding, and will be showcased in the 2016 Tour de France. These remote and sparsely populated areas have long attracted writers and adventurers, including Robert Louis Stevenson and Tim Krabbé; guests will ride the terrain that inspired Krabbé’s iconic book The Rider, staying in hidden châteaux and simple farmhouse hotels along the way.
The unique, prehistoric landscapes of south-west Utah are one of the places in which the size and freedom of the United States are most profoundly expressed. It’s a land of red-rock cliffs, purple sunsets and angular geological formations; few people get to ride here, and with Rapha’s signature support you will scale desert canyons and visit the stunning lakes and rock spires of the Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. It’s an adventure into pioneer territory on some of the most remote roads ever visited by Rapha Travel.
from: £1,700 | $3,000 | €2,300
from: £2,100 | $3,500 | €2,900
r aid
r aid
NEW MEXICO
PORTLAND– SAN FRANCISCO
22nd – 29th May 5th – 12th June 18th – 25th September
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18th – 28th June 16th – 26th July 13th – 23rd August
Featuring some of the least-touched roads Rapha Travel visits, this Raid is the perfect departure for adventure-seekers. Expect long, hard rides in the desert sun, expansive forests, rugged mesas, the soaring Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the majestic Rio Grande. New Mexico has a unique culture, thanks to the diverse influences in its history, and the local food will replenish the soul as well as tired legs. We’ll pack all this into eight days, leaving your legs empty, your heart full and your spirit reconnected to your riding.
Starting in the wine country of the Williamette Valley close to Portland, the cycling capital of North America, the route takes in climbs such as Highway 101, the dirt roads and unpaved paths of the Rapha Continental and the tranquil expanses of the Humboldt State Park. Along the way riders will stay in artists’ villages and fishing hamlets, before crossing the Golden Gate Bridge for a reception at the Rapha Cycle Club San Francisco.
from: £2,300 | $4,000 | €3,200
from: £3,200 | $5,500 | €4,400 33
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A SCEN T Take your riding to another level.
ascent
New for 2016 are Rapha Ascents – short getaways based around one particular mountain or col, which will transport you to the heart of what is special about our sport. One of the great pleasures of road cycling is how close we can get to the professional peloton and share in their experiences by riding the climbs that have become legendary in the world’s great races. Each Ascent stays in two or three star accommodation very close to the slopes that have made their mark in cycling history. In just a few days’ riding you will conquer a famous road, and our expert guides will show you the best that each mountain has to offer – the amazing views and the locals-only roads that will increase your appreciation of the area. When you’re not riding, simply relax in beautiful surroundings, enjoy massages and fine dining, and deepen the friendships forged during your day in the saddle.
who is it for?
all ascents include:
Ascents showcase some of cycling’s most testing battlegrounds, that are respected even by elite athletes. However, because the trips are based in one location and are shorter in duration, Ascents are suitable for a wide range of riders, including those relatively new to road cycling who are willing to put in the time training beforehand. Whether you want bragging rights over your friends, or to conquer one of the biggest names in the sport, you’ll return home with a major boost to your appreciation of cycling.
Double-occupancy rooms, world-class climbs, ride support from expert guides and vehicles, all meals and on-bike nutrition and top-level mechanics, laundry, pre-trip discounts on Rapha apparel. Flights, some airport transfers, some alcohol and single-occupancy accommodation are extra.
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ascent
ascent
STELVIO
TOURMALET
22nd – 25th June 27th – 30th July
4th – 7th August 11th – 14th September The Tourmalet is the undoubted queen of the Pyrenees, its renown familiar to any fan of road cycling. From Octave Lapize to Fausto Coppi, Federico Bahamontes to Eddy Merckx, Robert Millar to Marco Pantani, cycling’s greatest stars have all put on a show here. Based in a beautiful chalet, we will guide you over the sublime terrain of the ‘Circle of Death’, from famed climbs like the Tourmalet, Aubisque and Hautacam, to wilder mountain roads. Only a few hours from all major European airports, this is an accessible trip of world-class riding.
The Stelvio cuts jaggedly into the slopes of the Eastern Alps, a true behemoth of Italian cycling. The ‘Queen of the Alps’ is the second-highest paved Alpine pass, and riding the dramatic hairpin bends is an immensely inspiring experience for any cyclist. The scene of many iconic climbing duels at the Giro d’Italia, the Stelvio is nonetheless surrounded by countless other wonderful roads that we will enjoy during the trip. Don’t miss your chance to ride some of the world’s best climbs with top guides and enjoy a unique region with its own Italian flair.
from: £1,100 | $1,700 | €1,500
from: £1,100 | $1,700 | €1,500
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ascent
ascent
GIBRALTAR ROAD (SANTA BARBARA)
MOUNT BALDY (LOS ANGELES)
6th – 9th February 5th – 8th March
13th – 16th February 12th – 15th March
With its never-ending views over the deep blue Pacific and the chilled beach vibe in town, Santa Barbara, the ‘American Riviera’, is perfect for a long weekend of hard efforts and exquisite rewards. It’s a little-known cycling paradise, surrounded by passes worthy of the loftiest races, and the jewel in the crown is Gibraltar Road, an iconic ride whose grandeur – and two summits – will leave you breathless. During this Ascent trip we will also pass through the stunning Santa Ynez mountains, and along the gravel roads of the Los Padres National Forest.
Los Angeles is fast becoming a dream cycling destination, and its surroundings contain some of the best climbing around. From our base in leafy Claremont, not far from the attractions of central LA, we’ll climb roads made famous by the Tour of California – gems including Mount Baldy, Glendora Ridge Road, and Highway 39. The great climbers of the sport have been referred to as angels and after a few days in this climber’s paradise you’ll know why the City of Angels warrants its title in more ways than one.
from: £1,100 | $1,700 | €1,500
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ascent
VENTOUX 26th – 29th May 6th – 9th July women’s ascent: 21st – 24th August Ventoux is a road cycling mountain that truly deserves its legendary status. The long climb through the forests to the barren, rocky summit is truly awe-inspiring, and should be on every cyclist’s must-do list. The Giant of Provence looms over the lavender fields and vineyards of this part of Provence; Ascent riders will stay almost in its shadow, and, when not riding the region’s beautiful rolling roads, will also enjoy the fresh cuisine and fine red and rosé wines. from: £1,100 | $1,700 | €1,500
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RE T RE AT The perfect blend of riding and relaxation.
retreat
Rapha Travel pioneered the idea of the cycling Retreat, a luxurious break where the emphasis is as much on unwinding and enjoying stunning surroundings as it is on challenging yourself on the bike. With exclusive villa-style accommodation in which to stretch out, and the best home-cooked regional specialities, local wines and culture, the Provence and Tuscany Retreats set a standard that other trip providers cannot match. This year, we are offering a new Retreat destination: Girona. Nestled under the Pyrenees, it is a mecca for pro cyclists and also in one of Spain’s gastronomic regional hotspots. Rapha Retreats are always based in one stunning location, for the ultimate in stress relief, and you can tailor-make the riding itinerary to suit you. Choose 150km over the high mountains, or a gentle coffee spin before an afternoon of relaxation; guided or solo, it’s up to you. Non-riding partners are welcomed along to share the experience with you.
who is it for?
all retreats include:
Retreats suit all types of riders, except for those who want packed days and relentless riding. Although you will have the chance to do big days in the saddle and test yourself on amazing roads, your time can be as demanding or as gentle as you like: wine tastings, market trips, swimming and massages are examples of indulgences that are positively encouraged. You’ll return home fitter and happier, and recharged in mind and body.
Airport transfers, double-occupancy rooms, high guide-to-client ratios, ride support from expert guides and vehicles, all meals and on-bike nutrition, daily massage and top-level mechanics, laundry, local art, culture and other activities for non-riding partners, pre-trip discounts on Rapha apparel. Flights, some alcohol and single-occupancy accommodation are extra.
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new: retreat
retreat
GIRONA
LE GRAND BANC
4th – 9th September 13th – 18th October
1st – 6th May tour de france special: 10th – 15th July
A throng of WorldTour pros have made the Catalan town of Girona their home, lured by the mild weather, the Pyrenees and the rolling roads down to the Costa Brava. And for those who don’t turn pedals for a living, the experience can be just as special. Disconnect from the worries of everyday life for a few days at Rapha’s newest Retreat. It’s designed to showcase the best of the region’s riding, the incredible mountains and coastal views, as well as the cuisine that Catalonia is famous for, and special luxury accommodation.
Le Grand Banc, a private hamlet on a hilltop in the Luberon, almost in the shadow of Mont Ventoux, provides a stunning base for our Provence retreat. Guests can mix tough climbs - rolling rides through lavender and vineyards on deserted roads - with local culture, wine tastings and fresh local produce prepared by our in-house chefs. Experience stunning gorges and, of course, the Giant of Provence; or choose to take it easy in opulent surroundings, appreciating Le Grand Banc’s art and design collection and its pool. A special Tour de France Retreat is available in July.
from: £2,500 | $3,900 | €3,400
from: £2,500 | $3,900 | €3,400
retreat
retreat
TUSCANY
L’EROICA VINTAGE
29th May – 3rd June 24th – 29th September
30th September – 3rd October
Tuscany is an epicentre of art, fashion, food and, of course, wine. It’s also one of the most beautiful places in the world to ride a bike. From our converted 8th-century Etruscan village, owned by winemakers in the Gallo Nero region of Chianti, you’ll explore the rolling hills, roads and gravel tracks made famous by the Giro and Strade Bianche races, as well as enjoying cultural trips to Siena and Florence. from: £2,300 | $3,500 | €3,200
Riding the white roads of Tuscany alongside thousands of other vintage-bike enthusiasts is a truly special experience, and this Rapha Retreat will make it even more so. This exceptional departure guarantees you entry to your choice of distance at L’Eroica, as well as three other days of beautiful riding, and the sumptuous food and relaxation that are our trademark. Be transported to the golden era of cycling, surrounded by beautiful Tuscan scenery and good company. Note: a pre1987 bike is required for the event, and we are happy to help you source one. from: £1,400 | $2,200 | €1,900
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PRO TEAM CAMP A successful season starts here.
pro team camp
A Pro Team Camp will get you in shape at the start of the season and prepare you for the challenges to come. That might mean some mountain experience on the way to peak form for a Gran Fondo, or a serious block of training designed to hone race fitness before the start of a season’s campaign: either way, a Pro Team Camp will give you the focus you need to work towards your goals. We will help you build your form on carefully selected routes in some of Europe’s hotspots for pro cycling, and offer training insights and nutrition advice that will help you make a real improvement to your riding. You will amass early-season miles in the same way the pros do: hard days on fabulous terrain without distraction, and serious eating and relaxation at night. Rapha’s take on the traditional training camp isn’t spartan, however, and you and your friends will benefit from Rapha’s exceptional support and high-quality service.
who is it for?
all pro team camps include:
A Pro Team Camp is for committed riders looking for proper, hard training miles, and particularly suits groups of club-mates or friends working towards similar goals, who can spur each other on to the next level.
Airport transfers, daily baggage transfers, double-occupancy rooms, 1:4 guide-to-client ratios, unique routes in remote terrain, expert planning and some ride support from guides and vehicles, all on-bike nutrition, top-level mechanics and pro-level bike hire available, pre-trip discounts on Rapha apparel. Flights, alcohol and single-occupancy accommodation are extra.
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pro team camp
CÔTE D’AZUR 14th – 17th April The Côte d’Azur from Nice to the Italian border is one of the world’s true hotspots for pro cyclists – you’ll see them on coast roads, passing through the villages in the hills and sitting in the cafés of Menton or Monaco. The Col de la Madone, made famous by Tony Rominger and then Lance Armstrong, is still a favourite among the locals. Come train here in the spring sunshine, on these beautiful roads and deserted climbs, and you’ll instantly appreciate what an authentic experience it is. from: £1,300 | $2,000 | €1,800
pro team camp
GIRONA 28th April – 1st May Girona is Europe’s other great location for seeing pro riders training, or relaxing on home turf. Pros point to the fantastic terrain here – high mountains, flat coastal roads and Ardennes-style rolling hills – as having everything you need for success. Join us and see what all the fuss is about, as you focus on your fitness on the car-free backroads of the region, then relax in style to enjoy the food and accommodation that are Rapha Travel’s trademark. from: £1,300 | $2,000 | €1,800
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CENT COLS CHALLENGE 100 cols, 10 days.
cent cols challenge
The Cent Cols Challenge is the brainchild of endurance rider Phil Deeker: his determination, commitment to riding and will to explore has created one of the ultimate tests of what is possible on a road bike. Cent Cols Challenges take place across Europe, criss-crossing entire mountain ranges to combine the classic routes and climbs from the Grand Tours with lesser-known backcountry gems.
who is it for?
all cent cols include:
Because of the distances, and the huge physical and psychological challenge, the Cent Cols are for the strongest and most experienced riders. On most days riders should expect at least 8-10 hours in the saddle, and to be self-sufficient for long periods of time. The remoteness of the terrain also means that accommodation and food are less luxurious than on Rapha’s other trips. However, Phil Deeker and the Rapha team of guides, mechanics and soigneurs take care of all logistics and everything riders need, letting you focus your mind, and legs, on the cols. It is usual that some riders don’t complete the parcours. But, thanks to the stunning settings and the camaraderie, and possibly to reserves they didn’t know they had, riders often find they rise to the demands of the trip and take their riding to a new level.
Double-occupancy accommodation, support from Rapha staff on and off the bike, inspiring guides and reliable mechanical support, multi-vehicle support, ride nutrition, breakfasts, roadside feed stops, all but one meal. Some airport transfers, flights, alcohol and limited single-occupancy accommodation are extra.
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cent cols challenge
cent cols challenge
PYRENEES
SOUTHERN ALPS
13th – 24th September
3rd – 14th June
The Pyrenees Cent Cols Challenge is the most rural of our routes and the most technical. Ten days without passing through a major town, and accompanied by the sound of cascading water and cowbells, the tranquil beauty of these mountains will work its way to your heart. Steeper climbs and some rougher roads mean this Challenge is definitely harder than the Alps, and more of a spiritual voyage of discovery – it is perhaps the ultimate cycling adventure.
Take unknown roads through the glorious southern Alps on both sides of the French-Italian border, with three days based at a lovely hotel near Mont Ventoux providing the event’s pivotal stage. Do not be misled by the apparent lack of big climbs: with ten 2,000m-plus cols in stages 7 to 9, the latter part of the trip will send you off on a high. from: £3,300 | $5,000 | €4,600
from: £3,300 | $5,000 | €4,600
cent cols challenge
new: cent cols challenge
DOLOMITES
NORTHERN ALPS
28th August – 8th September
23rd July – 3rd August
With punishing climbs, double-digit gradients and superb hairpin descents, the Dolomites’ roads feel as if they’re designed by cyclists, and sections of gravel strade bianche help make this one of the toughest Cent Cols yet devised. Climb the formidable greats of these unique rocky mountains – the Zoncolan, the Tre Cime, Giau – and finish with the Gavia and exceptional views into the Swiss Alps.
New for 2016, the Cent Cols Challenge Northern Alps completes the Alpine duo and is a definite step up from the Southern Alps CCC. It has the perfect mix of big-name classic climbs, including the Col de l’Iseran, the highest pass in the Alps, and rustic Cent Cols Challenge gems. The Italian stages will impress those looking to ride off the beaten track, and Day 8 in particular – with the Galibier, Croix de Fer, Glandon and Sarenne – will make even the strongest riders quake. A dramatic, inspiring tour of some of the most stunning roads in Europe.
from: £3,300 | $5,000 | €4,600
from: £3,300 | $5,000 | €4,600
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new: cent cols challenge
CLASSICS 21st – 28th May A monumental trip to ride the routes of six legendary Spring Classics in seven days. Tackle the Tour of Flanders, Gent-Wevelgem, Paris-Roubaix, Amstel Gold, Flèche Wallonne and Liège-Bastogne-Liège – some of the most historic events in cycling, where the legends of the true northern hardmen are made. Cobbles, punchy climbs, deep forests, dust, mud, wind and rain – these races have everything. And, though this Cent Cols Challenge doesn’t feature the endless climbs found elsewhere, it will put even the toughest riders to the test. from: £2,500 | $3,800 | €3,400
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BESPOKE Your ultimate custom cycling experience.
bespoke
Let Rapha create a unique itinerary for you and your family and friends, or your colleagues and clients. Sharing experiences brings us together. It deepens friendships, builds trust and strengthens partnerships. A week on the bike with those close to you can be a valuable and unforgettable experience. We have a deep knowledge of the best roads, the finest restaurants and the most luxurious hotels the world over, and we have harnessed this to create the ride of a lifetime for a range of private clients. No trip is too big or small.
ex amples of past trips:
to book:
– A honeymoon ride through the Alps and the Dolomites for two newlyweds, with their own personal guide and photographer.
We will work closely with you to build the trip with the support and personnel you want and to the level of difficulty that suits you. Hit the Tour de France’s biggest climbs, spin along the beach or ask us to take you to the secret roads we explore in our downtime, where normal trips can’t go. Wherever we take you, you can expect faultless delivery, from accommodation and logistics to on-bike support.
– A family get-together in a private hilltop village in Provence, near Mont Ventoux. – A week-long trip around the Giro d’Italia riding the classic climbs and taking in the pro race, for a prominent businessman, his friends and associates. – A four-day charity challenge in the southern Alps for a global luxury services company. 74
For more information about any aspect of the Bespoke service please email: travel@rapha.cc
r apha tr avel 2016 calendar
r apha tr avel 2016 calendar
The table below provides a quick-reference guide to which Rapha trips are taking place, and where, in 2016. For specific dates and details of each trip, please refer to the relevant section.
p.11 Randonnée p.23 Raid p.35 Ascent p.45 Retreat p.53 Pro Team Camp p.61 Cent Cols Challenge
europe alps
january
february
march
europe april
may
june
alps
appennini
appennini
ardennes
ardennes
corsica
corsica
côte d’azur
côte d’azur
dolomites
dolomites
girona
girona
massif central
massif central
provence
provence
pyrenees
pyrenees
tuscany
july
august
july
august
september
july
august
september
january
february
march
april
june
december
california
october
november
december
october
november
december
new mexico
utah
utah asia
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november
united states of america may
new mexico
japan
october
tuscany united states of america
california
september
january
february
march
asia april
may
june
japan
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bookings and enquiries
Rapha Travel’s signature service starts the minute you get in touch, and our expert team is on hand to answer any queries you may have. For more details on Rapha Travel’s cycling trips of a lifetime, please contact us at: Email: travel@rapha.cc Telephone: usa: 877 907 2742 uk (& rest of world): +44 (0)207 482 9175 # raphatravel
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