INSIDER

Spin Cycle

EXPLORE EUROPE’S MOST SCENIC BIKE RIDES AND FAVORITE LOCALES WITH BACKROADS.

THERE’S NO DENYING EUROPE IS A FAVORITE SUMMER AND FALL DESTINATION FOR MOST ANY CURIOUS TRAVELER, and Backroads has been hard at work curating the ultimate in outdoor and cultural exploration. So whether wanting to cycle past the Dolomites or explore the backroads of Bordeaux, non-stop excitement awaits. Here are highlights from the best of Backroads’ European cycling journeys.

ITALY

Dolomites Bike Tour: World-Class Routes in Italy & Austria

This Dolomites bike tour immerses guests in the idyllic corner of Italy and the crown jewel of the European Alps. Explore a network of remote cycling paths linking Italy to Austria via lush valleys and limestone massifs. • Uncover the vibrant history, culture, and friendly locals of Italy and Austria. • Bike through storybook villages and lush green valleys framed by magnificent limestone peaks. • Discover bike paths and cycling routes that parallel wildflower meadows and local farmers. • Stay at luxurious family-run hotels while refueling with alpine cuisine.

SPAIN

Mallorca Bike Tour: World-Class Cycling on Spain’s Mediterranean Isle

Tackle the steep peaks and gorges of the Serra de Tramuntana and then cruise the nearly deserted back roads of Spain, where vigorous climbs and descents thrill cyclists of all levels. • Bike the narrow and curvaceous peninsula road to Cap de Formentor. • Taste delectable seafood and other local specialties during a meal at a former fortress on the Bay of Palma. • Wander through secluded mountain towns with wild lavender and citrus groves.

FRANCE

Bordeaux & Dordogne Bike Tour: Grand Wine Estates & Michelin Stars

Time-travel across the French countryside by bike. In Dordogne, swans and boats glide along the meandering river as you ride on shore. Next up is Bordeaux and a visit to the World Heritage site of St-Émilion. Vineyard-rich land is graced with superb bike routes, noble châteaux, and world-famous vineyards. • Experience the perfect pairing— the Dordogne’s rustic countryside and Bordeaux’s renowned viticulture. • Indulge in seasonally inspired,

Michelin-starred meals prepared by celebrated chefs. • Bike along the peaceful Dordogne River and past rows of acclaimed

Bordeaux Grand Cru vineyards. • Explore St-Émilion, known for extraordinary monolithic cathedrals and unforgettable wines.

Serenity Now

MIRAVAL ELEVATES MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT.

Serenity Pool at Miraval Austin.

GIVEN THE ADAGE, “IMITATION IS THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY,” various wellness brands may try to mirror Miraval, yet its “life in balance” perspective remains a leader in fostering a serene state of both body and mind.

With its trailblazing flagship in Tucson and resorts in Austin and the Berkshires, Miraval recenters minds and souls, uniquely immersing guests in nature and elevating their spirits along the way. Real-world re-entry? The goal is to maneuver through life with a grounded presence, in addition to building resilience and reframing perspective.

Miraval offers hundreds of life-enriching experiences, ranging from exercise physiology, wellness counseling, and outdoor adventures to sound bathing, chakra balancing, and meditation. No two journeys are alike. Guests are met wherever they are—spiritually, physically, and mentally. A central tenet of mindfulness is the capacity to see through a beginner’s eye. As such, Miraval welcomes guests at every level, from novice to expert. Curious participants never stop learning, as according to the Miraval mantra, life never stops teaching. A careful balance of intuition and expertise is found throughout every experience, which includes wellbeing, culinary and nutrition, outdoor adventure, equine therapy, yoga and fitness, and farm and garden adventures.

And while there’s a unified perspective, each property also celebrates a sense of place. When staying at Miraval Tucson, experience the groundbreaking equine therapy program, which teaches calm and compassion. A Miraval Austin standout is touring its on-site Cypress Creek Farm, and at the new Miraval Berkshires—a New England sanctuary atop 380 protected acres in the Berkshires countryside—cardio kayaking is a favorite experience. A vigorous paddle takes you around some of the high alpine lakes of the Berkshires. Whichever property you choose, expect to return nurtured and enriched.

Life in Balance Spa at Miraval Berkshires.