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BIKING

SANTA BARBARAWINE COUNTRY

PREMIERE INNS

From rolling hills and historic towns to the boutique wineries of the Santa Ynez Valley, it’s all about sipping, sunshine and cycling—a veritable trifecta of weekend perfection. Picture a glass of award-winning chardonnay in your hand, the California sun warming your face. Imagine a sense of utter relaxation enhanced by the pure satisfaction of a stellar day’s ride. Better yet, don’t just dream about three fabulous days in Santa Barbara county. Join us and make them a reality!

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The genius of Backroads is the combination of personal challenge and adventure with unsurpassed service and luxury that is ideal for those of us who want to be both active and spoiled on vacation.

Edith Schonberg - New York, NY

3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS

ROUTE RATING LEVELS 2–5

NEVER SUBCONTRACTED We operate our own trips around the globe. That way we control the quality—and we're fully responsible for your great experience.

TWO SUPPORT VANS We provide two support vans on all of our trips* so you can count on us to be there when you need us, regardless of the route you take.

THREE LEADERS Our trips have three leaders*, for an average 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. Guests consistently score our leaders 9.7 out of 10, telling us they make all the difference.

THOUGHTFUL TRIP DESIGN We know how to create exceptional travel experiences, ensuring that you get the most from every moment as your trip unfolds.

MULTIPLE DAILY ROUTES Being able to choose among several expertly designed routes each day gives you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace.

WE CELEBRATE MIXED ABILITIES To accommodate varied activity levels, you need three leaders, two vans, multiple route options, detailed directions, a rating system showing if shuttles are required, and plenty of well-matched riding/hiking companions.

*95% of Backroads guests travel with the support of two or more vans and three leaders. The remaining 5% are on trips with very few guests where only one van and

two leaders are needed to maintain our high standards.

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KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE We are always seeking opportunities to enhance this

itinerary. We’ll be certain to notify you of any important changes prior to departure; other changes

may be communicated on trip by your leaders.

Day 1 On the first day of the trip, meet your Backroads Trip Leaders at 8 a.m. at the Hyatt Santa Barbara (805-882-1234), located at 1111 East Cabrillo Boulevard. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring a daypack containing your rain gear and anything else you may want for today’s ride.

Shuttle to Los Alamos 1 Hour Biking Options: Zaca Mesa Route: 21 Miles (1,500’ elevation gain) Cat Canyon Route: 36 Miles (2,500’)

Welcome to the weekend! After we meet at the Hyatt Santa Barbara, your Trip Leaders fit your bike and give a brief presentation on biking techniques and safety. Then head out on a great ride into the wooded foothills along the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. The scenic route takes you past ranchland, fruit and vegetable fields and vineyards. After an initial climb through oak trees we descend along a quiet creek that spills out into rolling vineyards. Midday we rendezvous at a local winery to enjoy one of those famous Backroads picnics you’ve been hearing about.

After lunch, pedal past orchards, vineyards and farm-land to the artsy historic town of Los Olivos and our home for the weekend, Fess Parker Wine Country Inn & Spa. The inn was founded by the legendary actor and noted local vintner, whose award-winning winery lies on our route into town—stop in for a free tasting if the mood strikes. (The winery was featured in the comedy film Sideways.) Upon your arrival at the inn, you may want to head straight to the spa for a massage or you can relax in your room before we regroup for a wel-come reception and dinner in town. (Spa treatments are not included in the trip price; see “During Your Trip” for more information.) Lodging: Fess Parker Wine Country Inn & Spa

Day 2 Biking Options: Santa Ynez Valley Route: 24 Miles (1,600’ elevation gain) Neverland Ranch Route: 35 Miles (2,200’) Figueroa Mountain Route: 44 Miles (5,100’) Figueroa & Santa Ynez Route: 55 Miles (5,800’)

Grab your bike and pedal rural roads past farms, horse ranches and grapevines of the fertile Central Coast wine region. Spin through the charming towns of Solvang and Santa Ynez—a little taste of Northern Europe and a slice of the historic American West within five miles of each other. If you’re primed for an epic ascent with a few intense technical sections, we’ve got that too! Figueroa Mountain is a classic Santa Barbara climb offering rave-worthy vistas of the Santa Ynez Valley. These are roads many of the professional cycling teams use for training. And that’s all before lunch!

A delicious picnic is laid out for you at another of Santa Barbara’s great wineries, and after the morning ride, you’re certain to be ready to dig in. Following lunch, you can look forward to an array of interesting attractions along the afternoon route. If you’d like to sip and spin, feel free to visit a winery or two on Alamo Pintado Road, such as Rideau or Blackjack Ranch Vineyards. You can also stop by Quicksilver Ranch to see champion miniature horses, taste and learn about local olive oil on the go or visit a lavender farm.

Tonight we dine at the Mediterranean-inspired Petros before retiring to our elegant rooms for the night. Lodging: Fess Parker Wine Country Inn & Spa

Santa Barbara Wine Country Biking 4

PREMIERE INN

FESS PARKER WINE COUNTRY INN & SPA 2 NIGHTS

Each room at this elegant boutique hotel, which dates back to 1888, features a private fireplace.

(pool, spa)

Los Olivos phone: 805-688-7788

www.fessparkerinn.com

Da y 3Biking Options: Ballard Canyon Route: 16 Miles (900’ elevation gain) Alisal Road Route: 27 Miles (1,600’)

Shuttle to Santa Barbara 45 Minutes

Finish off the weekend with one last ride through this picturesque wine region. The scenery through Ballard Canyon is well worth the hills you’ll encounter along the way. At the bottom of the canyon you’ll pass Ostrich-land—could be some good photo ops here! On our way back through Solvang, you may be in need of a mid-morning treat to keep you going: Olsen’s Danish Bakery has what you’re craving. Then continue to Nojoqui Falls Park along a road lined with ancient oak trees dripping with Spanish moss. Here you can park your bike and stretch your legs on a peaceful half-mile hike through the forest to a lovely seasonal waterfall. Hop back on your bike to return to Los Olivos. After a quick shower at the hotel, we’ll have our final lunch in the charming village of San Ynez before shuttling to Santa Barbara, where our trip ends. Please see “Arriving & Departing” for end-of-trip logistics.

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ROUTE RATING INFORMATION The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-5.

LEVEL 2 21–30 miles 2–4 hours

LEVEL 3 31–40 miles 3–5 hours

LEVEL 4 41-55 miles 4–6 hours

LEVEL 5 56–75+ miles 5–7+ hours

Review the “Route Rating” section on the web for more details on daily route options.

Arriving & Departing See Day 1 for meeting time and location.

CONCLUSION OF THE TRIP Backroads provides transportation to Santa Barbara, arriving at the airport between 2 and 2:30 p.m. The shuttle then continues to the Hyatt Santa Barbara, arriving between 2:30 and 3 p.m. If you are flying out of Santa Barbara the day the trip ends, please book a flight that departs after 4 p.m.

If you are flying out of LAX, Santa Barbara Airbus (www.sbairbus.com; 800-423-1618) provides transpor-tation from the Hyatt Santa Barbara to the airport. The Airbus costs $50 per person and will depart from the Hyatt around 3:20 p.m. and arrive at LAX around 5:45 p.m.; please book a flight that departs after 7:15 p.m.

FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS For your convenience, we suggest flying into Santa Barbara Airport (airport code: SBA; www.flysba.com) at least one day before the trip starts. Alternatively, you can fly to Los Angeles (airport code: LAX; www.lawa.org/welcomelax.aspx) and arrange ground transportation to and from Santa Barbara.

For help arranging air transport to and from your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk. Our expert travel advisors are ready to share their insiders’ knowledge of Backroads and our world-wide destinations. These professional agents are available to assist you with any of your travel needs. Please call us at 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to be connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday–Friday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time.

TRANSPORTATION FROM LOS ANGELES TO SANTA BARBARA Santa Barbara Airbus offers several daily departures from LAX to Santa Barbara for $50 per person. The trip takes 2–2 ½ hours.

Roadrunner Shuttle Service (www.rrshuttle.com; 800-247-7919) also provides ground transportation options (including limousine and town car service) between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

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PRICES & SCHEDULES All prices and schedules were current at the time of

printing, but are subject to change at any time.

Climate Santa Barbara’s wine country is located within a unique coastal range that contains several microclimates. The climate in any given area is determined by its proximity to the ocean. In the inland areas around Los Olivos, Solvang and Santa Ynez, mornings tend to be mild and pleasant. You should be comfortable wearing a short-sleeved jersey and shorts, but you may want to start out in a long-sleeved shirt or light jacket. Afternoons, however, can be downright hot! It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach the nineties in spring and triple digits in the summer, especially in recent years.

If you’re traveling with us in March, you’re likely to see some precipitation. While rainfall is negligible during the time most of our trips take place, it is always possible, so please remember to pack your waterproof, breathable rain gear. Be prepared for all types of weather to ensure that your trip is enjoyable. See “Suggested Packing List” in your Travel Planner for details on clothing and gear.

Santa Barbara

Average: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

High °F 64 65 66 69 70 72

Low °F 45 47 48 50 53 56

Precip. inches 4.1 4.7 3.6 0.8 0.4 0.1

Average: Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

High °F 75 77 75 73 69 65

Low °F 59 60 59 55 49 45

Precip. inches 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.5 1.5 2.6

Los Olivos

Average: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

High °F 66 67 70 75 80 85

Low °F 38 40 42 43 47 49

Precip. inches 4.9 5.3 3.9 1.4 0.5 0.1

Average: Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

High °F 91 92 89 83 74 67

Low °F 52 52 51 47 42 38

Precip. inches 0.1 0.3 0.1 1.0 1.6 3.4

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Where to Stay Before & After Your Trip For help making hotel reservations for before and after your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent, or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk. Call us at 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to be connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday–Friday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time.

Of course, we also recommend extending your stay at the hotel we visit on this trip; see the accommodations sidebar for details.

Refer to the Hotel Room Rate Guide for starting double-occupancy rates. Note that the chart reflects the internet and/or best available rates, which were accurate at the time of printing, but hotel rates are always subject to change. Also be aware that some hotels may require a minimum stay. We recommend that you consult directly with the hotels for specific details, as these requirements can change depending on the season and time of the week. Book early, especially during peak travel season!

SANTA BARBARA Hyatt Santa Barbara (Our meeting location on Day 1 and a drop-off location on Day 3) This Hyatt property offers modern spacious rooms and easy access to East Beach, a popular volleyball spot and a great place to watch the sunset. You’ll find plenty of ways to relax at this comfortable getaway, whether it’s a massage at the Oleastro Spa, a dip in the heated pool or a glass of wine by the outdoor fire pit. This hotel is also a pick-up and drop-off location for the Santa Barbara Airbus. (pool, spa) | 1111 East Cabrillo Boule-vard | www.santabarbara.hyatt.com | Phone: 805-882-1234 | 171 rooms | Rates:

El Encanto With seven acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and sweeping views of both the city and the ocean, El Encanto is truly an enchanting getaway. A recent renovation added elegant and modern touches to this already romantic property, including well-appointed luxury suites, an expansive outdoor swimming pool and a boutique spa. Dine on contemporary California-costal

cuisine under the stars on the hotel’s terrace or stroll the garden paths to experience the natural beauty of this hilltop retreat. (pool, spa) | 800 Alvarado Place | www.elencanto.com | Phone: 800-393-5315 or 805-845-5800 | 92 rooms & suites | Rates:

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara The historic Biltmore Hotel, a 1920s masterwork of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, is a Santa Barbara landmark. An extensive renovation around the turn of this century restored the hotel to its original grandeur, and over the years it has been recognized as one of the finest hotels in the country. Of course, the Four Seasons leaves no stone unturned when it comes to creating a luxury experience, so you can expect exquis-ite cuisine, beaucoup amenities, flawless service and divine comforts in every guest room. (pool, spa, tennis) | Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2013 ; Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award 2013 | 1260 Channel Drive | www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara| Phone: 805-969-2261 | 207 rooms & suites | Rates:

Spanish Garden Inn You’ll find this gem of a hotel tucked away in Santa Barbara’s historic Presidio district, with the shops, wineries, museums and restaurants of State Street within walking distance. After a day spent exploring, treat yourself to an in-room spa service or relax with a glass of wine around the outdoor fire pit. Not only can it boast an appealing location, the Spanish Garden Inn offers an inviting peaceful atmosphere with lush gardens, impeccable service and beautifully appointed spacious rooms inspired by Spain. (pool) | 915 Garden Street | www.spanishgardeninn.com | Phone: 866-564-4700 or 805-564-4700 | 23 rooms & suites | Rates:

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Hotel Oceana Positioned near a beautiful beach, this charming boutique hotel has plenty of inviting outdoor spaces to enjoy the ocean breezes and great views, whether in the courtyard gardens, the bistro’s patio or poolside. Take one of the complimentary cruisers out for a spin to explore the boardwalk on two wheels. The hotel offers spa services courtesy of Alchemy Arts Center, allowing you to experience a soothing massage in the comfort of your own room. (pool) | 202 West Cabrillo Boulevard | www.hoteloceanasantabarbara.com | Phone: 800-965 9776 or 805-965-4577 | 122 rooms & suites | Rates:

Canary Hotel Set in the cultural heart of Santa Barbara, just steps away from bustling State Street, the Canary Hotel offers the perfect combination of chic sophistication, comfort and convenience. Evening wine reception, in-room spa services and Saturday morning rooftop yoga are just some of the many things you’ll love about staying here. (pool) |31 West Carrillo | Phone: 805-884-0300 | www.canarysantabarbara.com | 97 rooms & suites | Rates:

LOS ANGELES Custom Hotel With a fun retro vibe, (not what you’d expect from an “airport hotel”) six social lounges with names inspired by air travel and of course, proximity to LAX, what’s not to love about the Custom Hotel? Recently renovated mod guest rooms, fitness facilities and a restaurant offering a Pacific Rim-influenced menu round out the list of reasons why staying near the airport is a cool idea. At the Custom Hotel, get ready to step back into the 60s, one of the Golden Ages of flight! (pool) | 8639 Lincoln Boulevard | www.jdvhotels.com | Phone: 310-645-0400; 250 rooms & suites | Rates:

Four Seasons Los Angeles Beverly Hills Set in a tony neighborhood within walking distance of glamorous Rodeo Drive, this Four Seasons property has an easygoing luxurious air that lets you know you’ll be well taken care of. An outdoor fitness room allows you to get in a good workout while enjoying the famously sunny L.A. weather. Spacious guest rooms in warm tones feature elegant understated décor and marble bathrooms | If your agenda is all about shopping, pampering and indulging in the best that the City of Angels has to offer, this is the place to be. (pool, spa) | Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award 2013 | 300 South Doheny Drive | www.fourseasons.com/losangeles| Phone: 310-273-2222 | 285 rooms & suites | Rates:

Hotel Angeleno For sightseeing in Los Angeles, Hotel Angeleno is the perfect home base. Just 15 miles from Universal Studios, 5 miles from Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, and walking distance to the Getty Center, this contem-porary hotel puts you at the center of it all. Nicely appointed guest rooms all feature private balconies and plush amenities, and the WEST restaurant and lounge is a favorite of locals (and you always want to know where the locals eat!). Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service to get you anywhere within a 3-mile radius of the hotel. (pool) | 170 N. Church Lane | www.hotelangeleno.com | Phone: 310-476-6411 | 208 rooms & suites | Rates:

Courtyard Los Angeles LAX/Century Boulevard A multi-million dollar renovation brought a fresh look to this Marriott Courtyard’s guest rooms, not to mention some welcome soundproofing (it’s right next to the airport, after all!). The reliable shuttle service, which departs from the hotel every 15 minutes, gets you to the terminal in 5 minutes. Before you go, you can stop in the lobby and print your boarding pass. Friendly staff and clean spacious rooms make this an ideal layover on your way in or out of L.A. (pool) | 6161 W Century Boulevard | www.marriott.com | Phone: 888-689-3031 or 310-649-1400 | 185 rooms | Rates:

SPECIAL HOTEL SAVINGS Backroads has negotiated special rates for our

guests at many hotels around the world. To find hotels with these exclusive Backroads savings, please visit www.backroads.com/hotelsavings.

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Hotel Erwin The festive carefree atmosphere of Venice Beach is the setting for your stay at Hotel Erwin. In 2012 the stylish guest rooms got a facelift that added funky local art and retro-cool furnishings. Generously proportioned guest rooms invite you to step out onto your balcony to survey the surrounding neighborhood or gaze out at the Pacific. At Barlo Kitchen the no-frills menu features simple delicious dishes from locally sourced ingredients. Head up to the High Rooftop Lounge for a cool drink and enjoy the sunset. 1697 Pacific Avenue, Venice Beach | www.hotelerwin.com | Phone: 800-786-7789 or 310-452-1111 | 119 rooms & suites | Rates:

Hotel Palomar The chichi L.A. neighborhood of Westwood is where you’ll find this sumptuous boutique hotel. Amply sized guest rooms and suites, a recently renovated restaurant serving “California fusion” cuisine, and an on-site fitness facility are just a few of the treats in store for you at Hotel Palomar. The nightly wine reception is the perfect place to get warmed up for a night checking out the hip local scene. (pool) | 10740 Wilshire Boulevard | www.hotelpalomar-lawestwood.com | Phone: 800-472-8556 or 310-475-8711 | 264 rooms & suites | Rates: