Self-guided and guided tours in Italy and France€¦ · self guided / in a group / tailormade,...

CYCLING AND BIKE&BOATSelf-guided and guided toursin Italy and France

2014

Girolibero viale Margherita, 95 - I - 36100 Vicenza - tel. +39 0444 330724 - www.girolibero.com

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BROCHURE

2014OVER

50 DESTINATIONS IN ITALY, FRANCE, REST OF EUROPE

FURTHER TOURS AND DETAILS ARE AVAILABLEON OUR WEBSITE:

www.girolibero.com

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KATALOG 2014

INDEX

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.

Bike and BoatA bike to get around during the day and a boat for accommodation and meals. Your � oating hotel follows your journey along the waterways and gives you the option of a lazy day on board.

RoadbikeRacing bike tours through some of the most scenic regions in Italy. Glorious views, legendary ascents, unforgettable food and wine, inspirational historic towns. Adrenaline, cuisine and culture rolled into one.

GIROLIBEROContact us

Monday to Friday8.30 to 13.00 and

15.00 to 18.30

Tel (+39) 0444 330724Fax (+39) 0444 167930

[email protected]

Graphics:www.noparking.it

4 A bit of history, a bit of philosophy and

a bagful of � gures

6 A… cycling holiday?!

8 Which one’s for me?

10 Our bikes

12 Our workshop – the engine room of Girolibero

14 Accompanying material and backup

16 Greens, our bike guides

18 Girolibero Roadbike – just the challenge

20 Our boats in Italy

22 Our boats in France

24 Life on board doing “bike&boat” in style

26 Exclusive chartering your own rivercruise

72 General conditions

74 How to book

75 Booking form

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p.37

p.29

p.65

ANNUAL SALES

Hello

A BIT OF HISTORYA BIT OF PHILOSOPHYAND A BAGFUL OF FIGURESAS A TOUR OPERATOR WE’VE BEEN ON THE ROAD FOR YEARS SPECIALISING IN EASY CYCLING HOLIDAYS AND ACTIVE TOURS. WE PROGRAMME, ORGANISE, PROVIDE ASSISTANCE AND TEST ALL OUR TOURS, MAKING SURE THAT THE ROUTES ARE QUIET, THE FOOD TASTY AND THE BEDS COMFY.

Year2002

Year2013

ITALIANS ON HOLIDAY WITH GIROLIBERO

7.500

700

TOTAL KM OUR CLIENTS HAVE

COVERED BY BIKE

3.400.000

200.000

NO. OF STAFF

42

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NO. OF BIKES

24

1.200

4

PIERPAOLO ROMIOas ever at the helm3 km by family tandem to take the kids to school and get himself to workMICHELA ROMIOall under control6 km by e-bike to get to work

912.045 €

10.426.000 €

BROCHURE 2014

BECAUSE WE ARE CYCLISTS TOOWe believe that cycling is one of the best ways to enjoy a holiday, and that the perfect ingredients are curiosity, a touch of initiative and the right dose of comfort.

ALWAYS BY YOUR SIDE Year after year, back at our home base in Vicenza, we leave no stone unturned as we fi ne-tune your favourite tours and carve out new itineraries. For us, fulfi lling your requests is a matter of pride – whether you’re occasional cyclists or accomplished riders.

LET’S FACE ITWe love feeling the breeze on our cheeks and we’d urge anyone to enjoy the Great Outdoors by bike: the views, the towns, the local people you come across… they all give you that special feeling of discovery.

OUR FAVOURITE COLOUR… has got to be green. But we also love a blue sky or a lavender fi eld.

YOUR FAVOURITE TOURSBolzano–Verona–Venice, Loire Valley,Bike & Boat in Italy

OUR VERY FIRST TOURVeneto, from 2002

WHERE DO ITALIANS CYCLE ON HOLIDAY?NetherlandsGermanyAustria

FOREIGN VISITORS IN ITALY WITH GIROLIBERO

7.500

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NO. OF TRAVELLERS

BY BIKE & BOAT

40

3.800

COUNTRIES EXPLORED BY BIKE

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26

ITALIAN REGIONS VISITED BY BIKE

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Program-ming NICOLA BOARIA

at our of�ces since the beginning of time2 km by Girolibero bike (+ child seat) to get to work

A... CYCLING HOLIDAY ?!

IT’S THE EASIEST THING!

© Enrico Caracciolo6

EASY CYCLING HOLIDAYSWe strive to ensure that you enjoy a manageable and carefree cycling holiday, and we’ll go out of our way to coordinate our services like clockwork. We select the most suitable hotels along the route; lay on a baggage transfer system that is punctual and e�cient; we supply up-to-date background information and cycling guides; provide the best bikes; guarantee our assistance 7 days a week. Our services, in a nutshell:

SELECTED HOTELSWe appreciate that after a day in the Great Outdoors, there’s nothing better than finding a welcoming home-from-home in which to relax. We personally handpick all the hotels on our tours, mindful of your comfort as well as their proximity to cycling paths and any relevant local sites. For our Bike & Boat tours we use boats that are either brand new or up-to-scratch, with adequate cabin space and excellent service on board.

BAGGAGE TRANSFERMost of our tours are itinerary-based, and we personally take care of the baggage transfer from hotel to hotel – a service that is included in the price. We supply you with tough luggage labels, and let you cycle on ahead – free of luggage, unnecessary weight or worries.

BACKGROUND MATERIALOur main job in winter is to prepare all the background material you may need: maps, itinerary directions and a wealth of local information are all essential tools for the independent cyclist who needs to find his or her own way. Our background material is detailed and allows you to get from A to B with ease (see also pp. 14-17). We are also happy to supply up-to-date GPS readings for anyone who prefers to navigate with a GPS.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACKIn the tracks of Holland, Germany and Austria, other European countries have followed suit and developed their own cycling networks. That is certainly the case in Italy and France, where we have crafted our own itineraries. Ours are freeform routes which use the established networks as much as possible – as well as other safe and quiet backroads and country lanes, well away from busy tra�c.

OUR FLEET OF BIKESOver 1,200 citybikes, assembled by our own mechanics specifically with your needs in mind: light but tough frames; puncture-resistant tyres; responsive breaks and gears; gel saddles in various heights; plus mudguards and saddlebag racks.Our e-bikes are increasingly popular: they’re up-to-scratch, reliable and benefit from high-capacity batteries for even the longest of days. (See also pp. 10-11)

ASSISTANCECan’t find your hotel? Trouble following the route? Mechanical snag with your hire bike? – No problem: Girolibero’s Helpline is available 7 days a week. This enables us to sort out any issues ourselves and, in trickier cases, to reach and help you on the spot.

5GOOD REASONS FOR CHOOSINGA HOLIDAYON TWO WHEELS

There are plenty of travellers, both Italian and foreign, who year after year choose a cycling holi-day – and many of these have already travelled with Girolibero. Biking it means:

1choosing a “human-powered, pedal-driven vehicle” (Wikipedia) which gets the oxygen and blood flowing – along with warmheartedness and a good dose of humour

2staying in the Great Outdoors for 70% of the time

3taking a holiday, not a package trip (we’ll be there but you’ll hardly see us)

4discovering lands, the local people and their ways at a “human” pace – and without worrying about the summer rush, parking, the weight of traf-fic or the fastest road

5refuelling body and soul, away from the madding crowd

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 7

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 of its most beautiful regions?

OptionsKATIA BRUSTOLONour latest recruit, but already part of the furniture 2 km by Girolibero bike to get to work

WHICH ONE’SFOR ME? SELF GUIDED / IN A GROUP / 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.

FROM OUR GUEST BOOK:“We have just returned from an amazing trip through Tuscany! The routes were well thought out, the maps and directions very clear and easy to follow, and the hotels were nice and in great locations. Thank you to Girolibero, this was the very best way to experience Tuscany. We look forward to our next trip!”Doris, Tuscany Pisa–Florence, p. 54

SELF GUIDED

8 girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com

BROCHURE 2014

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 (pp. 30-31), Provence–Camargue by Bike and Boat (pp. 34-35), Veneto (pp. 38-39), Bolzano–Verona–Venice (pp. 40-41), Paris–London/London–Paris (pp. 62-63).

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. 10-11), 6 bike trailers to transport them anywhere around Europe (up to 200), 7 floating hotels for any Bike and Boat tours (see pp. 20-23), 8 Plus, we can book the best restaurants, guided tours and any other extra service.

IN A GROUP WITH A TOUR LEADER

WHICH ONE’SFOR ME?

FROM OUR GUEST BOOK:Hello, We just wanted to write to let you know how impressed we were with both the tour and tour guide on our recent cycling holiday. The hotels exceeded our expectations on the whole and the food was excellent. Our guide was both knowledgeable and fun and she gave time to the whole group. It was quite a mix with six Germans, one Spanish, one Irishman and two English.Anna, Veneto, pp. 38-39

FROM OUR GUEST BOOK:We have just returned from our bike & boat tour aboard the Vita Pugna, and I just wanted to tell you that the experience was quite unforgettable. We’d never had a boat all to ourselves, as a group, and we’ve had the time of our lives: the crew was attentive and willing, and our tour leader a true travelling companion. We’d love to do it all again next year: when you get a chance, could you let us know what availability there is for your boats in Provence and Camargue, please? Best regards Klaus, Mantua–Venice, p. 30

TAILORMADE


Bikes

OUR BIKESTHROUGH OUR RESEARCH AND CLIENT FEEDBACK, WE HAVE COME UP WITH WHAT WE BELIEVE IS THE IDEAL TWO-WHEELER FOR THE GIROLIBERO CYCLIST: A UNISEX LOW-ENTRY CITYBIKE, WITH A RIDING POSITION THAT IS UPRIGHT, COMFORTABLE AND RELAXED. THE ALUMINIUM FRAME PROVIDES EXCELLENT STABILITY AND SAFETY WITHOUT FEELING HEAVY. THE GEL SADDLE AND FLAT ERGONOMIC HANDLEBAR GRIPS (YOU’VE GOT TO TRY THEM!) GIVE ADDED COMFORT AND CONFIDENCE. WE’RE CYCLISTS TOO AND... WE JUST LOVE THEM!

SPECIALISTS ANDCRAFTSMEN

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, puncture-resistant 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.

ROBERTO CELINgetting grubby is in his job description4 km by (vintage) roadbike to get to workALBERTO BRICHESEthe Workbench Wizard1 km by Girolibero bike to get to work

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BROCHURE 2014

BIKES 1 UNISEX BICYCLEDeore Shimano: 27 gearsavailable also with Nexus Shimano: 7 gears with pedal brake.

3 MEN’S BICYCLEDeore Shimano: 27 gearsavailable also with Nexus Shimano: 7 gears with pedal brake.

4 RACING BIKEWith carbon fork and 27-gear Shimano Tiagra.

5 TANDEM PINORevolutionary, easily manoeuvrable. Perfect vision for both.hase-bikes.com

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

7 TANDEM ONDERWATERA versatile bike for children transportation. onderwaterfi ets.nl

8 FOLLOW ME TANDEMThe ideal solution for carrying children (4-7 years old): followme-tandem.comAvailable also bike trailer (0-4 years old):croozer.it

ACCESSORIES9 HANDLEBAR BAG klickfi x.de connection

REPAIR KIT

SPECIAL2 ELECTRIC BIKESBy 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 the following models, which are available on all our tours

(with the exception of Sicily, Apulia, Umbria, Pisa–Florence, Chianti, Piedmont): - Kalkho° , Agattu modelMotor: 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 (fl at terrain, average speed).- BionX, Girolibero frameMotor: SL 250HT, 48 volts, 422.4W/H, located within the rear wheel. The high-capacity BionX battery is secured under the saddlebag rack. Gears: Deore 27-speed. Range: approx. 70 km (fl at terrain, average speed).

Our research has led us to the following models, which are available on all our tours

8-speed. Range: approx. 90 km (fl at terrain, average speed).- BionX, Girolibero frameMotor: SL 250HT, 48 volts, 422.4W/H, located within the rear wheel. The high-capacity BionX battery is secured under the saddlebag rack. Gears: Deore 27-speed. Range: approx. 70 km (fl at terrain, average speed).

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Logistics and Workshop

OUR WORKSHOPTHE ENGINE ROOM OF GIROLIBEROIN VICENZA A 500 SQM WAREHOUSE HOUSES OUR OFFICES AND WORKSHOPS. A GIGANTIC GREEN BEE – THE GIROLIBERO LOGO – HOVERS OVER THE ENTRANCE TO OUR “HIVE”, MEANING YOU CAN’T MISS US! POP IN AND SEE WHAT THE BUZZ IS ALL ABOUT.

ANTONIO GERMANIsimply put: sorts it all out10 km by mountain bike to get to workGIOVANNI BOTTAZZIbikes, trailers and tour leaders throughout Europe5 km by bike to get to work

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1,200GIROLIBERO BICYCLES

= 10 bikes

IN SUMMERIn Vicenza: during the summer, 1,200 orange bikes, 10 vans, 11 bike trailers and hundreds of accessories go in and out of the workshops, supervised by our mechanics and logistics sta¶ .In Europe: in order to follow you even more closely, our mobile workshops travel beyond national borders too.- France, Orléans250 Girolibero bikes are available for the following tours: The Loire Valley, Paris–London/London–Paris- France, Arles150 Girolibero bikes for our tours in Provence and Camargue

IN WINTEREvery year, in October, all Girolibero bikes deployed on our tours come back into our workshops for a complete overhaul. In March they will be ready for the start of the next season, in perfect shape.

THE ORANGE BIKES

900hoursWORK TO CHECK ALL BIKES after the season

3yearsAVERAGE USEof Girolibero’s bikes, before being placed on the market and sold to our best fans!

5mechanics

WE ARE IN THEIR HANDS!A good holiday starts right here: perfect maintenance of the bikes, e� cient coordination of luggage transfers, rapid prompt supplies to our boats in Italy, that every week we prepare according to the requirements of the customers.

Every week the bikes are given a complete overhaul and taken to the departure points for our tours, in perfect condition and ready to be handed over to our customers. We entrust all this to Roberto, Alberto, Nicolò, Andrea and Lorenzo, whose enthusiasm for their work means that your holiday is truly perfect.

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Info-packs

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL AND BACKUPAT GIROLIBERO WE TAKE LOTS OF CARE WHEN WE PREPARE OUR INFO MATERIAL: WE STUDY EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR EASY ROUTE FINDING AND TROUBLE-FREE CYCLING.

VALENTINA MACCÀa passion for languages, a maniac for precision20 km by bus + folding bike to get to work

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BROCHURE 2014

INFO-PACKSelf-guided toursWe provide one complete info-pack per room/cabin, containing:1. Travel documents (vouchers, hotel list)2. Luggage labels3. Handlebar bag4. Water bottle (1 per Bike)5. Girolibero Greens Roadbook (pp. 16-17) 6. Girolibero Greens Maps (pp. 16-17) 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide (pp. 16-17) or cycling guide edited by a di¶ erent publisher.

On request and adding an extra cost, we can give also GPS-System with maps.

Guided ToursA 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 labels3. Handlebar bag4. Water bottle (1 per Bike)6. Girolibero Greens Maps (pp. 16-17) 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide (pp. 16-17) or by a di¶ erent publisher

FINDING THE WAYTo 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!

TELEPHONE ASSISTANCE Customer Care and Hotline ServiceThis phone 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 sta¶ are never far away from you 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 also available in English and German, as well as (depending on the destination) in French and Dutch. Our Tour Leaders and sta¶ are generally multilingual too.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED

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GREENS, OUR BIKE GUIDES

ELENA RIATTIroadbooks, brochures, etc.: right, that’s signed off – let’s print it!3 km by Girolibero bike to get to workAMERIO TRONCAwhen out of the of� ce, he’s on the road doing recces2 km to get to work (rather more when out and about in Europe)

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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Greensguides

str.lla Valmarana

via Olmo – SR11

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viale A

. Diaz

viale J. dal Verme

vial

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gli S

calig

eri –

SS4

6_ra

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vial

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gost

ino

via

G. V

acca

ri

viale S

an Lazzaro

vial

e G

. Maz

zini

piazza dei Signori

corso Palladio

corso Fogazzaro

via Bacchiglione

via G

alile

i

corso Padova

viale della Pace

viale della Serenissima

via Aldo Moro –SR11

viale dello Stadio

viale

Tries

te

viale Fiume

via Castelfidardo

viale Circoli

via G. M

edici

stra

da

SP24

8

viale

B. d’A

lvian

o

via Lamarm

ora

viale Venezia

Parco Querini

Stazioneviale Veronacorso

SS Felice e Fo

rtunato

via F. de Ferreti

viale della Tecnica

viale dell’Industria

via

A. Rossi strada di Gogna

via Bastianoborgo Berga – SS248

via Rotondaviale Riviera Berica –SP247/SS248

strada statale Padana verso Padova – SR11

viale Camisano

viale G. Trissino

vial

e M

arghe

rita

viale F. Rodolfi

borg

o Sc

rofa

viale F.lli Bandiera

viale

Gra

ppa

via dei Laghi Mar

ostic

ana

viale Milano

viale Eretenioviale 10 Giugno

viale T

rieste

viale 10 Giugno

viale Milano

via A. Fusinato

via Legione

Gallieno

strada del Pasubio – SP45

CAMPEDELLO

via G. Maganza

BROCHURE 2014

A TRIO OF BOOKLETSDepending on the destination, you would receive:

1) Travel guide* The guide not only provides commentary to the scenery and artistic heritage of each of the places you will encounter on your way, but also provides important historical information and practical suggestions that will make your trip and any stopovers you plan more enjoyable and safer. And, last but not least, the guide also provides information on wining and dining, with recommendations for anything from a gargantuan meal to a quick snack.

2) Detailed maps of your route: in colour and at a scale of 1:75,000 or 1:50,000 (depending on the destination), including elevation and maps of any town centres of historical relevance. Produced in partnership with Esterbauer Publishers (Bikeline Guides), a brand renowned for quality.

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

N.B. Maps and Roadbooks are available in Italian, English and German for all our tours; extra languages are also available in selected cases.* Greens travel guides are currently available for:Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice (by bike and boat); Bolzano–Verona–Venice; Veneto.For all other tours, you will receive (free of charge) a comprehensive and up-to-date guide produced by another publisher.

(A) Column with kilometres reset to zero every 10 km. Anyone opting for a detour can simply reset the bike computer at the appropriate spot, after rejoining the standard route.(B) The standard route’s cumulative distance(C) Type of path and level of traf� c:1. Cycle path2. Cycle path marked on a main road3. Level of road traf� c from 3 (Low) to 6 (Very Busy)

THE ROADBOOK EFFORTLESS NAVIGATION:

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RoadbikeANDREA FERRIGATO the pedigree champion in our team23 km by roadbike to get to work

GIROLIBERO ROADBIKEJUST CHALLENGE!GIROLIBERO, IN COLLABORATION WITH FORMER PRO CYCLIST ANDREA FERRIGATO, HAS ENRICHED ITS CATALOGUE WITH A NEW SECTION DEDICATED TO ALL DROP HANDLEBAR FANS. RACING BIKE TOURS IN SOME OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL REGIONS IN ITALY, WHERE IN ADDITION TO VIEWS AND LEGENDARY ASCENTS YOU CAN ALSO ENJOY UNFORGETTABLE FOOD AND WINE AND VISIT INNUMERABLE CITIES OF ART ALONG THE WAY.

The routes vary in di� culty, allowing you to decide whether to race along or pedal in a relaxed fashion. What’s more, many of the stages o¶ er an easier option for those wanting to rest their muscles. Also on racing bike you can choose beetween independent / in a Group / Tailormade tours.

In brief:1 Overnight stays in selected

accommodation2 Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel3 GPS traces for the stages 4 Info material5 Bike rental and GPS navigation device 6 Phone assistance7 Medical-luggage insurance

Roadbike tours:Our self-guided tours on pp. 65-71Much more on our websitewww.roadbike.girolibero.it

ANDREA FERRIGATO, “FERRI” TO HIS FRIENDS About me:I was born with cycling in my heart: I have always pedalled with a passion, as a little boy I dreamed of becoming a pro cyclist and every time I got on my bike, a blue Torpedo, I dreamt I was racing. I started competitive racing at the age of 15 and I raced for 680,000 km, never stopping until I was 35. I used all my energy to end my professional career happy in the knowledge that I had played all my aces: 8 Giro d’Italia, 4 Tour de France, 17 victories, including two world cups (GP Zürich and the Leeds International Classic), a stage in the Giro d’Italia, GP de Plouay, GP Bern, Vuelta al Algarve and various races with the Italian National Team. I have continued to pedal out of my love for this sport and to work in the world of bikes when the road, the one that fl ies past under your tyres, brought me to Girolibero. I continue to train, looking for the best ascents and fi nding new routes, even better when they lead to a good restaurant and a fi ne wine cellar. This is my challenge now: managing to share my emotions with all those who travel with me and Girolibero roadbike holiday..

Ferri says:Just like a friend who has already been there, Andrea has advice on each stage for you: the most exciting ascent, the most suitable gear, the wine to taste as your end-of-stage reward. If you have any doubts or queries… ask [email protected]


BROCHURE 2014


BESPOKE TOURS Our speciality!You choose the destination and decide when to leave, we will organize the trip.Some examples:Andalusia and Sierra Nevada; Nizza–Mont Ventoux; Tunisia and the desert oasis... We will even organize the weeks connected to the main biking events of the world:

1GIRO D’ITALIA8 days/7 nightsguided tour, from 2,200 €

2GF STELVIO SANTINI5 days/4 nightsguided tour, from 650 €

3RONDE OF FLANDERS4 days/3 nightsguided tour, from 480 €

more on roadbike.girolibero.it

OUR BOATSIN ITALYWE’VE INTRODUCED THE BIKE AND BOAT FORMULA IN ITALY AS WELL, WITH TWO BOATS OF OUR OWN. MODERN, BRIGHT AND SPACIOUS, THE AVE MARIA WAS DESIGNED BY A WELL-KNOWN TEAM OF ITALIAN ARCHITECTS AND LAUNCHED IN 2011. 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.

FleetANNA VALLEone semester at Amsterdam University and she’s in love with her bike3 km by Girolibero bike (+ child seat) to get to work

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VITA PUGNA1 IN FIGURES

Capacity: 21 guestsLength: 36 mWidth: 5.4 mDraught: 1.60 m

2 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 o¶ er 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

3 THE LIVING AREAThere is a spacious air-conditioned lounge/restaurant with 5 tables, accommodating up to 23 guests.

4 EXTRA FEATURES› 1 sundeck› Free hot drinks machine

(including Italian ground co¶ ee)› Free wi-fi with 2 computers› Dedicated bike storage

5 TOURSMantua–Venice/ Venice–Mantua, Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: (pp. 30-33)

AVE MARIA1 IN FIGURES

Capacity: 40 guestsLength: 41 mWidth: 7.5 mDraught: 1.05 m

2 CABINS› 4 Superior Double cabins (two of

these can accomodate up to 4 persons adding 2 bunk beds) above deck, approx. 11 m2

› 10 Standard Double cabins (three of these can accomodate 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.

3 THE LIVING AREAMeasuring 11 x 7.5 m and air-conditioned, it is divided in two areas:› the Restaurant (up to 33 seats)› the Lounge (up to 28 seats)

4 EXTRA FEATURES› 2 sundecks› Free hot drinks machine

(including Italian ground co¶ ee)› Free wi-fi with 2 computers› Large 55” screen in the lounge

for video/internet › Dedicated bike storage (for

approx. 40 hanging bikes)› Hair-dryers (limited number)

available on request

5 TOURSMantua–Venice/ Venice–Mantua, Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: (pp. 30-33)

BROCHURE 2014


FleetANTONIO FASOLATOMy last family holiday? The Loire by bike30 km by car + folding bike to get to work

OUR BOATS IN FRANCE IN PROVENCE AND THE CAMARGUE TWO BARGES PLY THE WATERS EXCLUSIVELY FOR GIROLIBERO. THE SOLEO IS A LOCAL FLATBOAT BUILT IN 1958, CONVERTED INTO A LEISURE BOAT IN 1988 AND REFURBISHED IN 2009. L’ESTELLO IS A 1937 DUTCH BARGE SAILED OVER TO FRANCE; SHE TOO HAS BEEN REFURBISHED TO OFFER A HIGH LEVEL OF COMFORT, WITHOUT COMPROMISING ANY OF HER ORIGINAL CHARM.

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L’ESTELLO1 IN FIGURES

Capacity: 20 guests Length: 39 m Width: 5.2 m Draught: 1.6 m

2 CABINS› 10 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 air-conditioned and has en-suite facilities.Bed sizes: 1.90/2 m x 0.75/0.80 m 3 THE LIVING AREAThe air-conditioned living room is divided into two areas:› Restaurant, with large picture

windows› Bar area with comfortable sofas

and armchairs

4 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

5 TOURSProvence and Camargue Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/Avignon–Aigues-Mortes (pp. 34-35)

BROCHURE 2014

SOLEO1 IN FIGURES

Capacity: 22 guests Length: 38.5 m Width: 5.1 m

Draught: 1.6 m

2 CABINS› 12 cabins (4 Doubles, 6 Twins,

2 Singles) measuring 7-8 m2Each cabin has three fi xed 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).

3 THE LIVING AREAMeasuring 12.50 x 4.70 m and air-conditioned, it is divided in two areas:› the Restaurant (up to 22 seats)› the Salon area with an open barA total of 10 windows give plentyof natural light.

4 EXTRA FEATURES› Sundeck with seating

accommodation and fi xed 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

5 TOURSProvence and Camargue Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/Avignon–Aigues-Mortes (pp. 34-35)

Estello


LIFE ON BOARDDOING “BIKE & BOAT” IN STYLE

Bike & Boat

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.

THE CREWcaptains, cooks and service personnel2 weeks on board,2 week on the ground,6 months a year

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OUR VERY OWN NOAH’S ARKAboard our boats 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?0 Want to know more? Read an account of a group tour on p. 9.

COMFORT: RELAX IN YOUR CABIN ANDIN THE PUBLIC SPACESOur boats 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. 20-23.

100% GIROLIBERO BIKESOur 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. 10-11.

“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 stu¶ed 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 FRANCEA 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.

TIRAMISÙ FOREVERBy (very) popular request, here is the recipe for the best loved dessert served aboard the Ave Maria and Vita Pugna:

INGREDIENTS: - 6 eggs (medium)- 120 g caster sugar- 500 g mascarpone cream- 400 g sponge fingers (savoiardi)- espresso co¶ee (enough to soak the biscuits)- dark cocoa powder (enough to dust)

METHOD:1. Separate the eggs and combine the yolks with 60 g of sugar2. Whip until the consistency is light in colour, frothy and creamy3. Stir in the mascarpone cream4. In a separate bowl, whip the egg white to sti¶ peaks, adding the remaining 60 g of sugar halfway through 5. Gently mix the egg white into the yolk mixture, slowly stirring upwards

6. Drizzle the savoiardi with co¶ee until nicely soaked but not soggy7. Line the bottom of a flat trifle bowl with a single layer of savoiardi and cover this with a first layer of the mixture; continue with alternate layers8. Finish with a layer of mixture on top, level it and dust with cocoa9. Refrigerate for a few hours

“SQUISITO!”

BROCHURE 2014

25

River Cruising and Charter

GIULIO VALLORTIGARAproud of the red and white livery of the Ave Maria and his beloved Vicenza FC!6 km by e-bike to get to work

EXCLUSIVECHARTERING YOUR OWN RIVERCRUISE

26

ITALY

vita pugnaup to 21 people

A long voyage brought the barge over to Italy in 2007 after Girolibero acquired her in Holland. Now sails between Mantua and Venice.0 Suggested itinerary:

MANTUA–VENICE p. 30VENICE–MANTUA p. 31BOLZANO–VENICE p. 33

ave mariaup to 40 people

Our fl agship, launched in 2011. Originally a sand dredger and redesigned to our own specifi cation as a passenger boat: stylish, roomy, with a low carbon footprint and a fabulous kitchen.www.avemariaboat.com0 Suggested itinerary:

MANTUA–VENICE p. 30VENICE–MANTUA p. 31BOLZANO–VENICE p. 33

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22

40

ANOTHER IDEA OR TWO . . .

» RIVER CRUISINGWhy not request the boat for your group and we’ll organise a one-week river cruise for you? And, for anyone keener on sightseeing than cycling, we can always arrange minibus excursions to cities brimming with art, architecture and sites.

0 The weeks not to be missed:

» IN ITALY - 19 July 2014, Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Holy Redeemer), Venice- 27 August–6 September 2014, The Venice Film Festival» IN FRANCE- 2.-22. Juli 2014, Theaterfestival in Avignon

» WINTER WEEKENDSDuring November and March, our boats in Italy are also available for weekends and longer breaks.

0 A couple more ideas: How about celebrating Christmas, New Year’s Eve or Carnival with us on board?

. . . OR PERHAPS EVEN . . . !» COURSES AND ACTIVITY BREAKSCookery courses to discover the secrets of our remarkable chefs; or painting, yoga, history of art courses and anything else that springs to mind – perhaps even... witnessing the celebrated Wedding of the Venetian Lagoon, all the while living on board our fl oating hotels.

» TEAM BUILDINGAve Maria and Vita Pugna have proved popular with groups of colleagues who want a quiet environment in which to spend some time bonding.

0 Have a look at the video from a recent team building exercise on board the Ave Maria :

FRANCE

soleoup to 22 people

Romantic French riverboat, refurbished in 2009. The perfect salon from which to enjoy the fi re-red sunsets of Provence.0 Suggested itinerary:

PROVENCE–CAMARGUE p. 34-35

l’estelloup to 20 people

The Soleo’s unidentical twin sister, also refurbished in 2009. “Another apéritif, anyone?”.0 Suggested itinerary:

PROVENCE–CAMARGUE p. 34-35

20

BROCHURE 2014

GIROLIBERO’S FLEET IN ITALY AND FRANCE

JUST ONE CABIN OR THE WHOLE BOAT? – DEPENDS ON HOW MANY OF YOU THERE ARE. BUT WHY NOT ORGANISE A GROUP OF FRIENDS AND HIRE A BOAT ALL TO YOURSELVES FOR THAT HOLIDAY OF A LIFETIME?

27

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 29girolibero - tel. 0444 323639 - numero verde 800-190510 solo da telefono fisso - [email protected] - www.girolibero.it 292929

A bicycle to get around during the day and a boat for meals and accommodation. The � oating hotel follows by river the stages of the journey, becoming a foothold in the lazy days.

BIKE & BOAT

ITALY

Mantua–Venice . . . . . . p. 30 | 210 Km | 8 days/7 nights

Self guided and guided tourfrom 865 €

Venice–Mantua . . . . . . p. 31 | 200 Km | 8 days/7 nights

Self guided and guided tourfrom 805 €

Bolzano–Mantua–Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 33

| 360 Km | 11 days/10 nightsSelf guided and guided tourfrom 1240 €

FRANCE

Aigues-Mortes–Avignon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 34


Avignon–Aigues-Mortes . . . . . . . p. 34


5Tours in this brochure2 videos on the website!


Italy

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, eleva-tion up 0 m). An entire day dedicated to the discovery of this little visited cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the Mincio, and its surround-ing countryside – once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family and now consid-ered by many as Italy’s “Sleeping Beau-ty”. 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, elevation up 0 m). A short cruise along the lush banks of the Mincio takes us to Governolo, where it � ows into the Po and forms the largest inland basin in Italy. At Governolo Lock, once a vital staging post for local navigation, we saddle our bikes and follow the Po through Ostiglia (famed for its medieval

fortress and � oating mill) and on to the village of Bergantino. Here we visit the charming Carousel and Street Entertain-ment 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, elevation up 0 m). 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, elevation up 0 m). 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 � amin-gos. At the mouth of the River Adige, which � ows fast and cool from the Dolomites, we then follow the Po-Bron-dolo waterway and reach the Venetian lagoon. Our overnight stop is the bustling and colourful � shing port of Chioggia, known as “Little Venice”. 6. Chioggia–Venice (30 km, elevation up 0 m). A morning visit to the � sh 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 Pell-estrina (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 aristocracy of the Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home to the International Venice Film Festival and its galaxy of stars. Finally, our � oating 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 Ven-ice”, which held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centu-ries. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.8. Venice.After breakfast end of ser-vices. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Venice–Porec (p. 46) or Veneto (p. 38).

| | | | 210 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Bike & Boat in ItalyMantua–Venice

Adige

Po

Po

Brenta

Delta del Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Lagunadi Venezia

Ferrara

Chioggia

S.Benedetto Revere

ZeloMantova

Adria

Venezia

Treviso

VeronaVicenza

Padova

Mincio


Italy

DAY BY DAY 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. It is possible to combine an extra tour before your bike&boat week: Venice–Porec (p. 46), Veneto (p. 38).2. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the capital of the ancient “Serenissima Republic of Ven-ice”, which held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centu-ries. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.3. Venice–Chioggia (30 km, elevation up 0 m). Cruising out of Venice at a gentle pace, we start our bike and boat adventure on the Lido, the � rst of 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 � shermen’s cottages and boats. Here, where we rejoin the barge and sail to Chioggia – a bustling and colourful � shing harbour known as “Little Venice”.4. Chioggia–Porto Viro–Adria (40 km, elevation up 0 m). A morning stroll through Chioggia’s � sh market is recom-mended 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 � amingos. We overnight in Adria, an ancient Greek port once close to the shores of the sea which bears its name, also renowned for its Etruscan and Roman heritage.5. Adria–Ferrara–Zelo (35 km by bike + 35 km by bus, elevation up 0 m). 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 in� uential architects and artists for centuries. A private bus takes us back to our � oating hotel in Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs paral-lel to the Po.6. Zelo–Mantua (50 km, elevation up 0 m). We sail for a short stretch and, back on our bikes, we reach the village of Bergantino where we visit the charming Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum. Following the river through Ostiglia (famed for its medieval fortress and � oating mill) and on to Governolo Lock. Once a vital staging post for local navigation, this is where the River Mincio � ows into the Po, creating the largest inland basin in Italy. Leaving the Po behind, we reach Mantua through a magni� cent navigation in the afternoon.7. Mantua round tour (40 km, elevation up 0 m). An entire day dedicated to the discovery of this little visited cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the Mincio, and its surround-ing countryside – once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family. In the late after-noon a local guide will lead you through the most known highlights of the town.8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast. Possibility to book extra nights.

| | | | 200 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Bike & Boat in ItalyVenice–Mantua

ACCOMPANYING MATERIALFor these tours you receive the complete set of Greens guides (pp.16-17): - Cycling Guide- Maps- Roadbook

GIROLIBERO GREENSG

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Superb on-board catering Authentic regional cuisine, both simple and refi ned. Cities of art Venice, Mantua,

Ferrara, outstanding jewels of the Italian Renaissance.Po Delta Reserve Tranquillity, natural beauty and

birdlife to explore by bike.

Bike & Boat tour in Italy. The original.

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MantuaVenice

ROADBOOKROADBOOK

GI R

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From Venice to MantuaStreet maps of Venice, Chioggia, Adria, Ferrara, Mantua and cycle maps

MAPS

BIKE & BOAT

Greens guides (pp.16-17):

From Venice

BIKE & BOAT

This guide accompanies the Girolibero bike & boat tour and

aims to whet your appetite for the regions between Venice

and Mantua:

, scenically and culturally fascinating places

, historical information

, useful information

, tips on good meals and snacks

From

Ven

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to M

antu

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to Mantua

GIR

OL I B E R

O

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Sights, history, wining and dining tips,

useful information

CYCLING GUIDE

BIKE & BOAT

Bike & Boat tour in Italy. The original.

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MantuaVenice

From Venice

GI R

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GR E E N S

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From Venice to MantuaStreet maps of Venice, Chioggia, Adria, Ferrara, Mantua and cycle maps

From Venice

to Mantua

GIR

OL I B E R

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useful information

This guide accompanies the Girolibero bike & boat tour and

aims to whet your appetite for the regions between Venice

and Mantua:, scenically and culturally fascinating places

, historical information

, useful information

, tips on good meals and snacks

From

Man

tua

to V

enic

e

From Mantuato Venice

GI R

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useful information

CYCLING GUIDEBIKE & BOAT


NAVIGATION ON RIVERS AND CANALSThe 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 ROUTEThis cycling tour is largely along the � ats of the Po plains, and the daily stages vary from 30 to 55 km – most-ly 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, for example to allow easier access onto cycling paths, or simply to enjoy the cruise through the Venice lagoon.

BICYCLES27-gear Shimano Deore unisex bikes in appropriate frame sizes.They are puncture-proof, fully serviced and equipped with a trip computer, side-bag, water bottle and padlock. Ad-ditionally, Self-guided cyclists are supplied with a map holder/front bag (1 per bike) and a repair kit (1 per couple). Due to space and safety restrictions, only a limited number of clients’ bikes can be accepted on board upon request.

GUIDED AND SELF GUIDED TOURThe detailed directions and maps supplied with your free info-pack offer you the option of either cycling inde-pendently or with the rest of the group, following the Tour Leader. When booking this bike and boat tour, please specify your chosen option (i.e. Guided or Self-guided).

HOW TO REACH VENICE AND MANTUA:By PlaneBoth 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)

By Railway and CarMantua is situated on the A22 Highway Brennero–Modena, only 50 km south of Verona. By train it is connected very 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, which links Venice to the most important Italian cities. The journey Venice–Mantua (or opposite) is covered by train in approx. 2,5 hours.

PRICE PER PERSON GENERAL INFORMATION

Boat VITA PUGNA (p. 21) AVE MARIA (p. 21)

Direction From Venice From Mantua From Venice From Mantua

Tour code I11 I09 I12 I10

Standard cabin value season

805 € 865 € 1055 € 1115 €

SUPPLEMENTS

Superior cabin - - + 120 € + 120 €

Single cabin + 300 € + 300 € + 300 € + 300 €

Middle season + 145 € + 145 € + 155 € + 155 €

High season + 185 € + 185 € + 215 € + 215 €

REDUCTIONS

Bunk bed cabin - - - 100 € - 100 €

3rd/4th person in cabin

- 200 € - 200 € - 200 € - 200 €

Best price (March 29 th)

- - - - 120 €

BICYCLE RENT

Girolibero bike 65 € 65 € 65 € 65 €

Electro-bike 145 € 145 € 145 € 145 €

Helmet 15 € 15 € 15 € 15 €

DEPARTURES

VITA PUGNAfrom Venice: 26.04, 10.05, 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, 13.09, 27.09, 11.10.2014.from Mantua: 19.04, 3.05, 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, 9.08, 23.08, 6.09, 20.09, 4.10, 18.10.2014.

AVE MARIAfrom Venice: 5.04, 19.04, 3.05, 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, 9.08, 23.08, 6.09, 20.09, 4.10, 18.10.2014.from Mantua: 29.03, 12.04, 26.04, 10.05, 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, 13.09, 27.09, 11.10.2014.

SEASONSBest price: March 29thValue: from April 5th to April 26th and October 18thMiddle: from July 5th to August 23rd and from October 4th to October 11thHigh: from May 3rd to June 28th and from August 30th to September 27th

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE: 7 overnights, full board (breakfast, dinner and a self-made packed lunch), accompanying Tour Leader on board and on bike, 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 €), 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/SGLIn Mestre 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel – DBL/SGL In Venice from 90/150 € 3/4* Hotel – DBL/SGL

USEFUL INFORMATION


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Bolzano.2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation up 370 m). You cycle along the Adige beside apple orchards, vineyards and through the villages of Ora, Egna and Sal-orno. 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–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 m). 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. Peschiera/Desenzano–Mantua(35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). Today you will cycle following 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, elevation up 0 m). 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, elevation up 0 m). 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, elevation up 0 m). After breakfast you will start cycling towards Ferrara. A guided visit of this wonderful

town will let you discover its 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, elevation up 0 m). 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, elevation up 0 m). A visit to the � sh 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 the up the Lido island, with a stop in Malamocco. After the � nal short ride you reach again the barge.10. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the magni� cent 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. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Venice–Porec (p. 46) or Veneto (p. 38).

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 challeng-ing climb to face. From Mantua to Venice you will pedal along rivers and canals on tarmac cycle paths or roads with low traf� c.

PARKING

In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no reservation possible, to be paid on-site).

BY PLANE

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

Adige

Po

Po

Brenta

Delta del Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Lagunadi Venezia

Ferrara

Chioggia

S.Benedetto Revere

ZeloMantova

Adria

Venezia

Treviso

Bolzano/Bozen

Trento

Riva del Garda Rovereto

VeronaVicenza

Padova

Mincio

PeschieraDesenzano

| | | | | 360 km | 11 Days/10 Nights | the � rst 4 days self guided only

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

SELF GUIDED TOUR3/4* Hotels375 € DBL+ 90 € SGL+ 15 € high season sup-plement (from June 28th to Sept. 5th, 2014)

BICYCLE RENT40 € Girolibero bike80 € Electro-bike

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bolzano65/85 € 3/4* HotelDBL/SGL In Mestre65/85 € 3/4* Hotel DBL/SGLIn VeniceFrom 90/150 € 3/4* HotelDBL/SGLREDUCTIONS3rd person in room: 30 €

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE3 nights hotel accommoda-tion (in Bolzano, Trento, Peschiera/Desenzano), welcome brie� ng in English, luggage transportation, detailled route description, 3-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICEBeverages, local hotel taxes (to be paid on site), museums and extras in general, everything, which is

not included in the section “included in the price”.

DEPARTURESFROM BOLZANOEvery Wednesday from April 23rd to October 1st 2014.

PRICE PER PERSON (Surcharges for the � rst 4 days from Bolzano to Mantua) Tour code I26

Bolzano Italy’s northern outpost town immersed in the Dolomites. Lake Garda Sit back and

soak up the views, as you sail through by ferry, North to South. Superb on-board catering from

Mantua, an authentic regional cuisine.

OVERNIGHT IN HOTEL OVERNIGHT ON BOARD


France

From Aigues-Mortes to AvignonDAY BY DAY 1. Aigues-Mortes. Individual arrival and boarding after 6 p.m. in Aigues-Mortes, medieval town, ancient military and commercial rampart on the Mediterra-nean.2. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (45 km, elevation up 0 m). Going through small country lanes between canals and lagoons you will reach the charming �shermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the wonderful beach of L’Espiguette.3. Aigues-Mortes–Gallician (65 km, elevation up 0 m). You will cycle among cane and rice �elds and salt lakes, accompanied by horses, �amingos and bulls, and arrive to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer with its cathedral, loved by the gipsies. You will spend the night moored in the village of Gallician.4. Gallician–Arles (20 km, elevation up

0 m). You will sail for a few hours up to Saint Gilles and then cycle to today’s destination: Arles, known for the richness of its antique and Roman patrimony. 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.5. Arles–Vallabreguès (65 km, eleva-tion up 300 m). Breathtaking stage, which brings you to the Alpilles, with the perched village of Les-Baux-de-Provence and then to Saint Rémy de Provence. A landscape of limestone cliffs, lavender and olive trees will accompany the trip. In the evening you will moor in Vallabrègues, pretty Proven-çal village on the banks of the Rhône. 6. Vallabrègues–Avignon (60 km, elevation up 300 m). The stage today will bring you to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very

spectacular work. In the afternoon you will arrive in Avignon, the city of the Popes. You will be moored in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon on the opposite bank of the Rhône.7. Avignon, round tour (45 km, eleva-tion up 100 m). Navigation up to Avi-gnon, and then cycle in the direction of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low-traf�c 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 return to Villeneuve following the course of the river.8. Avignon. After breakfast, end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.

From Avignon to Aigues-MortesDAY BY DAY

1. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. Individual arrival at 6 p.m. and boarding in Ville-neuve-lès-Avignon.2. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon (45 km, elevation up 100 m). Navigate up to Avignon, the city of popes, and then cycle in the direction of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following roads with low levels of traf�c 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. You will cross the Rhône through Roque-maure and return to Villeneuve by following the course of the river.3. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon–Vallabrègues (60 km, elevation up 300 m). Today’s stage brings you to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe:

Pont du Gard, a truly spectacular work of architecture. In the evening you will moor in Vallabrègues, a pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône.4. Vallabreguès–Arles (65 km, eleva-tion up 300 m). 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. Then, you move onto the Alpilles, with Les-Baux-de-Provence, a village lodged in the rock itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs, lavender and olive trees accompanies your journey.5. Arles–Gallician (20 km, elevation up 0 m). Today the whole morning is dedi-cated 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 accom-pany you around the jewels of the town. After lunch you reach the lock of Saint Gilles and from there you will sail to Gallician, where you will spend the night.6. Gallician–Aigues-Mortes (65 km, elevation up 0 m). You will cycle among cane �elds, rice �elds and salt lakes, accompanied by horses, �amingos and bulls, and arrive at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and then Aigues-Mortes.7. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (45 km, elevation up 0 m). Going through small country lanes between canals and lagoons you will reach the charming �shermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the wonderful beach of L’Espiguette.8. Aigues-Mortes. After breakfast, end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.

| | | | 300 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Bike & Boat in FranceProvence-Camargue

Le Grau-du-Roi

Aigues-Mortes

Gallician Arles

Vallabregues

AvignoneRhône Étang de Berre

Étang de Vaccarès

Grand

Lunel

Montpellier

St. Maries-de-la-Mer

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Les-Baux-de-Provence

Tarascon

Pont du Gard

Roquemaure Chateauneufdu-Pape

Petit

Rhône

F


France

Landscapes of Van Gogh The villages, vineyards and meadows that inspired the painter.

Pont du Gard, the highest Roman aqueduct. Still intact and a UNESCO Heritage Site. Wilderness of the Camargue,

with its horses, bulls and fascinating gipsy culture.

SEASONSStandard season: from April 19th to April 26th 2014 and from July 5th to August 23rd 2014.High season: from May 3rd to June 28th 2014 and from August 30th toOctober 18th 2014.

SELF GUIDED AND GUIDED TOURboat Soleo/L’Estello (p. 23) 980 € DBL+ 300 € SGL+ 100 € high season supplement

BICYCLE RENT65 € Girolibero bike145 € Electro-bike15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Avignon60/90 € 2/3* Hotels – DBL/SGLIn Aigues-Mortes65/100 € 2/3* Hotels – DBL/SGL

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights accommodation, full board (breakfast, dinner and a self-made packed lunch), sheets and towels, detailed route description, maps and info-pack, tour leader on bike, emergency van in the area, guided visit of Arles, entrance to Pont du Gard, harbour charges, tea and coffee on board, wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

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

DEPARTURESFrom Avignon 19.04, 3.05, 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, 9.08, 23.08, 6.09, 20.09, 4.10, 18.10.2014. From Aigues-Mortes26.04, 10.05, 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, 13.09, 27.09, 11.10.2014.

PRICE PER PERSON Aigues-Mortes–Avignon tour code F30 Avignon–Aigues-Mortes tour code F24

NAVIGATION ON RIVERS AND CANALSIssues 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.

BIKE ROUTERoute on bike paths and low traf�c roads in rural and city areas. Short stretches are on unpaved roads and few on not avoidable busy roads.

BICYCLEDifferent 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.

EMERGENCY VAN & TRANSFERSA 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.

SELF GUIDED AND GUIDED TOURThis 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).

USEFUL INFORMATION

21Tours in this brochuremore on the website!

The classic bike trip: landscapes and open air, without the hassle of logistical issues. All you have to do is ride from one destination to another and enjoy the view.

BIKE &HOTEL

37

ITALY

Veneto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 38 | 270 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Self guided tour from 498 €Guided tour from 955 €

Bolzano–Verona–Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 40

| 280 Km | 8 Days/7 NightsSelf guided tour from 628 €Guided tour from 995 €

Innsbruck–Verona/Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 42

| 255 Km | 7 Days/6 NightsSelf guided tour from 635 €


Adige Cycle Route . . . p. 43 | 275 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Self guided tour from 682 €

Bolzano–Bassano–Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 44


Bolzano–Cortina–Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 45


Venice–Porec . . . . . . . . . p. 46 | 320 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Bolzano–Ferrara . . . . . . p. 48 | 315 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Lake Garda–Adriatic . p. 49 | 300 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


South Tyrol Valleys . . . p. 50 | 160 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights


Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 51 | 165 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights


Terme Euganee . . . . . . . p. 52 | 160 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights


Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 53 | 240 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Tuscany: Pisa–Florenz . . . . . . . . . . p. 54


Tuscany: Chianti . . . . . . p. 55 | 195 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Umbria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 56 | 265 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Apulia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 57| 320 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Sicily . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 58 | 230 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Self guided tour from 645 € | 195 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights


FRANCE

Provence–Camargue . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 59


Loire valley . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 60 | 295 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Paris–London/London–Paris . . . . . . . . . p. 62

| 340/320 Km | 8 Days/7 NightsSelf guided tour from 679 €Guided tour from 985 €


DAY BY DAY 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, elevation up 100 m). 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, elevation up 300 m). You enter Asolo, which presents us the only real uphill section of our ride. The down-hill 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, elevation up 0 m). 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 is in Mestre. A supplement applies for lodging in Venice.5. Mestre/Venice–Chioggia (1st cycling day for those starting in Mestre) (35 km, elevation up 0 m). Leaving Mestre this mor ning 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, elevation up 0 m). 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 Strà, famous for the majestic Villa Pisani. On arrival in Padova, you will � nd the great basilica dedicated to St. An-thony, the historic Caffè Pedrocchi and Prato della Valle. 7. Padova–Vicenza (50 km, elevation

up 130 m). 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 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. 31-33).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 270/295 km- Total vertical up: 530 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 low-lands except for the 1 km slope in Asolo. You ride on secondary streets with low traf� c or paved bike paths.

BY PLANE

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

Italy

| | | | 270 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

VenetoVenice Lands


GIROLIBERO GREENS


GI

RO L I B E

RO

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·

GR E E N S

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PeschieraLaguna

di Venezia

Verona

MARE ADRIATICO

Mestre

Vicenza

Padova

Treviso

VeneziaVenice

Chioggia

Lago diGarda

Bassano del Grappa

Ferrara

Po

Adige

Montebelluna

Stra

Marostica Asolo

Brenta Sile

Piave

Bacchiglione


Italy

SHORT BREAK

| | 135 km | 5 Days |

Tour code I16

DAY BY DAY 1. Mestre. Arrival.2. Mestre/Venice–Chioggia (35 km). You will cycle to Tron-chetto harbour. From here you take a ferry to Lido. You pedal on the islands Malamocco and Pellestrina. Overnight in Chioggia.3. Chioggia–Padova (60 km). You will reach the majestic Villa Pisani in Strà. On arrival in Padova, don’t miss the historical centre.4. Padova–Mestre (40 km).You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the villas of the ancient Venetian nobility until you reach Mestre.5. Mestre. Departure.

PRICE PER PERSON415 € DBL; 110 € SGL supplement45 € Girolibero bike20 € high season suppl. (from June 26th to August 29th, 2014)

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE4 nights in 3/4* Hotel, 4 breakfast buffets, welcome brie�ng, luggage transportation, route description and maps, Hotline service.

DEPARTURES Every Tuesday and Wednesday from May 6th to September 24th 2014.

SEASONSValue season: from March 29th to April 30th 2014 and from September 27th to October 25th 2014. Middle season: from May 1st to June 25th 2014 and from August 30th to September 26th 2014.High season: from June 26th to August 29th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOURCat. B (2/3* Hotels)498 € DBL+ 145 € SGL+ 40 € Middle season + 80 € High season

Cat. A (3/4* Hotels)655 € DBL+ 198 € SGL+ 35 € Middle season + 55 € High season

Cat. A+ (luxury Hotels and villas)1290 € DBL+ 280 € SGL

GUIDED TOURCat. A (3/4* Hotels)955 € DBL+ 198 € SGL


HALF BOARD140 € Cat. B170 € Cat. A 6 dinners included (3-course meals), bever-ages not included.

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Vicenza/TrevisoFrom 40/65 € Cat. B DBL/SGLFrom 55/85 € Cat. A DBL/SGLIn Mestre55/65 € Cat. B - DBL/SGL65/85 € Cat. A - DBL/SGLIn VeniceFrom 90 € Cat. A / B - DBLFrom 150 € Cat. A / B - SGLNight in Venice instead of Mestre (luggage delivered to the hotel)From 90 € Cat. A / B - DBLFrom 150 € Cat. A / B - SGL

REDUCTIONS3rd/4th person in room: 100 € Cat. B 130 € Cat. AUntil the age of 2: 90% From 3 to 5 years: 50% From 6 to 8 years: 30%

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, 24-hours-ticket for Venice public transport valid only Cat. A (bike not included, approx. 4 €), en-trance into Villa Valmarana ai Nani, ice-cream in the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza.Guided tour includes also: Cat. A Hotel accommoda-tion, 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 PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €). Ferry-boat transfers on day 5 (altogether about 25 € per person + bike).

DEPARTURESSelf guided tour: Every Saturday and Sunday from Vicenza and every Tuesday and Wednesday from Mestre, from March 29th to October 25th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!Attention! Starting point Treviso: dates to beannounced.

Guided tour: April 19th, May 31st, June 7th, June 28th, July 12th, September 13th 2014.

PRICE PER PERSON Self guided tour code I03 - Guided tour code I03G

Prosecco Paradise By bike through the vineyards of the celebrated sparkling wine. Palladio’s architecture

The Renaissance master’s finest designs, in and around Vicenza. Padova, city of art and learning.

The oldest Faculty of Medicine in the world.


DAY BY DAY 1. Bolzano. Arrival. Bolzano is a famous commercial and tourist centre and also a historical and cultural connection be-tween the Italian and the German world.2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation up 370 m). Today you will ride mostly along the Adige River, through orchards, 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–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 km + ferry, elevation up 200 m). 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. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona (35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). 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, eleva-tion up 470 m). At � rst, the route starts out � at 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 beauti-ful 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 several train stations along the way.6. Vicenza–Padova (50 km, elevation up 80 m). 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”. 7. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km, elevation up 0 m). The tour continues easily through the � at Veneto. You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcon-tenta, Villa Widmann) until you reach Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can choose to stay directly in Venice with a price supplement.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 (p. 31), Venice–Porec (p. 46).

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.

As a whole it is an easy to manage itinerary, riding on secondary streets with low traf� c or paved bike paths. There are light hilly bits with short uphill sections.

PARKING

In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no reservation possible, to be paid on site).

BY PLANE


Lagodi Garda

MAREADRIATICO

Lagodi Caldaro

Adig

e

Adige

Bolzano/Bozen

Trento

Rovereto

Salorno

Rivadel Garda

Peschiera

Verona

San Bonifacio

SoaveDesenzano

Vicenza

Abano

Mestre

Venezia

Chioggia

Bassano

Treviso

Padova

Brenta

| | | | 280 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Bolzano–Verona–VeniceAcross Lake Garda and through Verona

Italy


GIROLIBERO GREENSG

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SHORT BREAK

| | 150 km | 5 Days |

Tour code I18

DAY BY DAY1. Bolzano. Arrival. 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km).Today you will ride through vine-yards and tiny beautiful villages. The dam pathways lead then to Trento.3. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano(50 km + ferry). Pedalling along the Adige you reach Lake Garda. A ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake.4. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona (35/60 km). Today you head to Verona, one of the most beautiful cities in Veneto region.5. Verona. Departure.

PRICE PER PERSON475 € DBL; 110 € SGL supplement45 € Girolibero bike25 € high season supplement (from June 28th to Sept. 5th, 2014)

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE4 nights in 3/4* Hotel, 4 breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng, luggage transportation, route description and maps, 4-hour ferry cruise through Lake Garda, Hotline service

DEPARTURESevery Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday from May 10th to September 14th 2014.

SEASONSStandard season: from March 29th to June 27th 2014 and from September 6th to October 18th 2014.High season: from June 28th to September 5th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOURCat. B (2/3* Hotels)628 € DBL+ 145 € SGL+ 30 € High season

Cat. A (3/4* Hotels)728 € DBL + 198 € SGL+ 40 € High season

GUIDED TOURCat. A (3/4* Hotels)995 € DBL+ 198 € SGL


HALF BOARD170 € (only for Cat. A) 6 dinners included (3-course meals), bever-ages not included.

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bolzano65 € Cat. A / B - DBL85 € Cat. A / B - SGLIn Mestre55/65 € Cat. B - DBL/SGL65/85 € Cat. A - DBL/SGLIn VeniceFrom 90 €Cat. A / B - DBLFrom 150 € Cat. A / B - SGLNight in Venice instead of Mestre (luggage deliv-ered to the hotel)From 90 € Cat. A / B - DBLFrom 150 € Cat. A / B - SGL

TRANSFERSTo be con�rmed when booking the tour Mestre/Venice–Bolzano60 € per person (bike included).Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request). Also possible on Tuesday and Wednesday from May 20th to Septem-ber 17th 2014.

REDUCTIONS3rd/4th person in room: 100 € Cat. B 130 € Cat. AUntil the age of 2: 90% From 3 to 5 years: 50% From 6 to 8 years: 30%

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, route descriptions & maps, 4-hour 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 accommoda-tion, 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 PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €).Train transfers.

DEPARTURESSelf guided tour: every Saturday and Sunday from March 29th to October 18th 2014.Additionally every Tuesday and Wednesday from May 13th to September 10th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

Guided tour: April 19th, May 17th, June 28th, August 30th, October 4th 2014.

PRICE PER PERSON Self guided tour code I01 - Guided tour code I01G

Italy

Dolomites Towns, villages and valleys in the shadow of the iconic pink peaks. Lake Garda Among the most elegant holiday destinations in northern Italy.

Venice Forget your bike and directions: Venice is made for walking and losing yourself !


DAY BY DAY

1. Innsbruck. Arrival.2. Innsbruck–Bressanone (55 km cycle + 40 km transfer, elevation up 570 m). A private transfer will take you to Brennero, where you’ll start cycling into the green Isarco valley. Your cycling day continues with no dif�culties through nice villages and green meadows till Fortezza, where you will see the ancient fort. Lake Varna awaits you for a relax-ing break before you reach Bressanone.3. Bressanone–Bolzano (45 km, elevation up 570 m). 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. Overnight in Bolzano.4. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation up 370 m). You will ride along the Adige River, through orchards, vineyards passing the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. The dam pathways lead then to Trento.5. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 m). Always pedalling along the Adige you reach Rovereto and Mori. After a short ascent, a refreshing descent will follow

and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The ferry cruise takes you to the south-ern part of the lake.6. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona (35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). Today you head to Verona.

Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House.7. Verona. Departure.

VARIATION

7. Verona–Vicenza (75/40 km, elevation up 470 m). At �rst, the route starts out �at and then heads through the Monti Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza. The old city centre is character-ized by the beautiful private palaces and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th century architect known all over the world. The ones who consider this stage too long can take a train from several railway stations.8. Vicenza–Padova (50 km, elevation up 80 m). 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”.9. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km, elevation up 0 m). 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.10. Mestre/Venice. Departure.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 255/390 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. Con-tinuing from Lake Garda to Venice the itinerary is developed riding on second-ary streets with low traf�c.

BY PLANE

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

| | | 255 km | 7 Days/6 Nights or 10 Days/9 Nights

Innsbruck–Verona/VeniceFrom the mountains to the sea

SEASONSStandard season: from May 8th to June 25th 2014 and from September 6th to September 26th 2014.High season: from June 26th to September 5th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOUR3/4* hotels 635 € DBL+ 170 € SGL+ 40 € High season

Variation10 days/9 nights3/4* hotels930 € DBL+ 245 € SGL+ 60 € High season

BICYCLE RENT65 € Girolibero bike (7 days)90 € Girolibero bike (10 days)15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Innsbruck65/85 € DBL/ SGLIn Verona65/85 € DBL/SGL

In Mestre65/85 € DBL/ SGLIn VeniceFrom 90 € DBLFrom 150 € SGLNight in Venice instead of Mestre (luggage delivered to the hotel)From 90 € DBLFrom 150 € SGL

REDUCTIONS3rd person in room: 110 € (7 days)136 € (10 days)

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE6/9 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet,

welcome brie�ngin English, luggage trans-portation, transfer from Innsbruck to Brennero, route descriptions & maps, 4-hour ferry cruise through Lake Garda, 7/10-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €). Train transfers.

DEPARTURESEvery Thursday and Friday from May 8th to September 26th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Innsbruck-Verona tour code I32 - Innsbruck-Venice tour code I27

Tyrol A backdrop of towering mountains, verdant meadows and wooden chalets.

Lake Garda Sail across the lake beloved by poets and artists through the ages. Adriatic Sea Venice and her lagoon

welcome you on the home stretch of the tour.

Italy

Lagodi Garda

MAREADRIATICO

Lagodi Caldaro

Adig

e

Adig

e

Min

cio

Isarco/Eisack

Innsbruck

Trento

Bolzano/Bozen

Rovereto

Salorno

Riva del Garda

Peschiera

Verona

San Bonifacio

SoaveDesenzano

Vicenza

Abano

MestreVenezia

Brennero/Brenner

Bassano

Treviso

Padova

Brenta

Bressanone/Brixen

Vipiteno/Sterzing

A

ICH


DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival.2. Resiapass–Silandro (50 km, eleva-tion up 120 m). 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 as far as Silandro.3. Silandro–Merano (40 km, elevation up 60 m). 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, elevation up 60 m). 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, elevation up 370 m). Cycling along the lane you follow the Adige beside apple orchards, vineyards and 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–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 m). 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 ofthe lake. The boat excursion alone makes the whole trip worthwhile. 7. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona(35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). Today you head to Verona, one of the

most important and beautiful cities of Italy. 8. Verona. Departure after breakfast.

VARIATION

7. Peschiera/Desenzano-Mantua (45/70 km, elevation up 20/200 m). 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.8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Mantua–Venice/Venice–Mantua (pp. 30-31), Veneto (p. 38).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 275/315 km- Total vertical up: 830/1,040 m- Terrain: 97% asphalt, 3% 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 �at 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, traf�c-free cycle lanes, part of which run along the Adige banks. Towards Lake Garda there is a bit more challenging climb to face.

PARKING


BY PLANE

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

Italy

| | | 275 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Adige Cycle RouteFrom Resiapass to Verona/Mantua

SHORT BREAK

| | 115 km | 5 Days | Tour code I30

DAY BY DAY1. Bolzano. Arrival. 2. Resiapass–Silandro Transfer up to Resiapass, then cycle to Silandro.3. Silandro–Merano Along the river Adige you will reach Merano.4. Merano–Bolzano Ride past little towns like Nalles and Andri-ano until you reach Bolzano. 5. Bolzano. Departure.

PRICE PER PERSON415 € DBL110 € SGL supplement45/95 € Girolibero bike/Electro-bike30 € high season suppl. (from June 28th to September 5th 2014)

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE4 nights in 3/4* Hotel, 4 breakfast buffets, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, route description and maps, Hotline service.

DEPARTURES Every Saturday from May 10th to September 13th 2014. Additionally every Sunday from June 29th to August 24th, 2014.


SELF GUIDED TOUR3/4* Hotels682 € DBL+ 198 € SGL+ 40 € High season

BICYCLE RENT65 € Girolibero bike 145 € Electro-bike15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bolzano65/85 € DBL/SGLIn Verona65/85 € DBL/SGLIn Mantua45/75 € DBL/SGL

TRANSFERTo be con�rmed when booking the tour Mantua/Verona–Bolzano

60 € per person - bike included (min. 4 persons)Available on Saturday (other days only on request).REDUCTIONS3rd/4th person in room: 130 €Until the age of 2: 90% From 3 to 5 years: 50% From 6 to 8 years: 30%

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, buffet breakfast, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, transfer from Bolzano to

Resiapass, 4-hour ferry cruise through Lake Garda, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €)

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from May 10th to September 13th 2014. Additionally every Sunday from June 29th to August 24th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Resiapass–Verona tour code I15 - Resiapass–Mantua tour code I02

Cycle paths 90 % of the itinerary is along the longest cycle route in Italy. South Tyrol Italy’s

northernmost region, imbued with both Italian and Tyrolean spirit. Bolzano, Trento, Mantua, Verona

Stylish historic centres also great for shopping.

Vicenza

Padova

Chioggia

Trento

Rovereto

Etsch

Adi

ge

Mincio

Brenta

Po

Lago di Caldaro

Peschieradel Garda

Desenzano

Lago diGarda

Riva del Garda

Passo Resia/Reschen Pass

Silandro/Schlanders

Bolzano/Bozen

Mantova

A

I

VeronaVenezia MAR

ADRIATICO

Merano


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival. The bi lingual capital city of South Tyrol is a renowned com-mercial and tourist centre which has a rich history. Today the Italian and the German cultures and ways of life join together. The historical centre of Bolzano is enchantingly beautiful. 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation up 370 m). 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 with its wonderful frescoed buildings. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.3. Trento–Bassano del Grappa (35 km by train + 60 km by bike, elevation up 600 m). The whole stage schedules 95 km altogether. We suggest anyway to shorten it of minimum 20 km by taking a train from Trento to the lakes area, avoiding in this way the only uphill sec-tion of the stage. Starting from the spring of Lake Caldonazzo and Levico, you will follow the river Brenta across its beautiful valley up to Bassano del Grappa, which offers you its famous wooden-roofed bridge and a wonderful historical centre.4. Bassano–Vicenza (40 km, elevation up 20 m). After a few kilometres from Bassano you reach the little forti�ed

town of Marostica, which is famous for its castle “Castello da Bassano” and the stone chessboard on its main square. At the end of this stage Vicenza awaits you: this is the famous city of the Re-naissance architect Andrea Palladio, who built plenty of extraordinary build-ings around here.

5. Vicenza–Padova (50 km, elevation up 20 m). You leave Vicenza and ride past the splendid “Villa Rotonda” by Palladio. Through the village of Costozza and then cycling along the river Bac-chiglione you arrive at the ancient university city of Padova. Here you will be astonished by the exceptional abun-dance of architectural masterpieces and art treasures. 6. Padova–Chioggia (60 km, elevation up 0 m). From Padova you cycle along canals. The rivers Bacchiglione and Brenta, which were once important commercial waterways, accompany you to the picturesque �shing village Chiog-gia, in the Venetian lagoon.7. Chioggia–Mestre (35 km, elevation up 0 m). 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 ride to Mestre along the 4 km-long bridge “Ponte della Libertà”. 8. Mestre. Departure after breakfast.

Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (p. 31), Venice–Porec (p. 46).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 310/350 km- Total vertical up: 410/1,010 mt- 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.

PARKING


BY PLANE


Lagodi Caldaro

Adig

e

Bolzano/Bozen

Trento

VeronaMestre

Bassano del Grappa

Chioggia

Venezia

Treviso

Laghidi Caldonazzo

e Levico

Lagodi Garda

Brenta

Adige

Bacchiglione

Sile

Levico

BorgoValsugana

Vicenza

Padova

Salorno


Bolzano–Bassano–VeniceAcross the beautiful Brenta Valley

SEASONSStandard season: from April 26th to June 27th 2014 and from September 6th to September 13th 2014.High season: from June 28th to September 5th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOURCat. B (2/3* Hotels)628 € DBL+ 145 € SGL+ 30 € High season

Cat. A (3/4* Hotels)710 € DBL+ 198 € SGL+ 40 € High season


EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bolzano65 € Cat. A / B - DBL85 € Cat. A / B - SGLIn Mestre55 €/65 € Cat. B - DBL/SGL65 €/85 € Cat. A - DBL/SGLIn VeniceFrom 90 € Cat. A / B - DBLFrom 150 € Cat. A / B - SGL

TRANSFERSTo be con�rmed when booking the tour Mestre/Venice–Bolzano 60 € per person (bikeincluded). Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

REDUCTIONS3rd person in room:100 € Cat. B130 € Cat. AINCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, buffet breakfast, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage trans portation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €).Train journey from Trento to Lake area (approx. 40 minutes, 5 € per person + bike).Ferry-boat transfers on day 7 (altogehter about 25 € per person + bike).

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday, from April 26th to September 13th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I13

Trento Stroll through the Alpine town’s Medieval centre and visit Buonconsiglio Castle.

Grappa The King of Italian Spirits, best savoured at its picturesque home, Bassano. Treviso Compact and elegant

historic town, one of northern Italy’s unsung jewels.


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival.2. Bolzano–Brunico–Dobbiaco (30 km by bike + 70 km transfer, elevation up 490 m). 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 bicycle path along the river Rienz, that leads to Dobbiaco, close to the Austrian border.3. Dobbiaco–Cortina (35 km, elevation up 330 m). Leaving Dobbiaco you take the cycle path along the Landro valley from where you admire the famous Three Peaks of Lavaredo. Going downhill and southwards you reach Cortina d’Ampezzo. Cortina is 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, elevation up 140 m). Today you pedal slightly downhill along the old railway route until you reach San Vito and then Calalzo. Landscape is here very relaxing: you cycle through the Cadore woods, then stop in the small village of Pieve, where you can see the birth house of painter Titian. Train transfer from Calalzo to Belluno (not included in price).5. Belluno–Valdobbiadene (60 km, elevation up 760 m). From Belluno you pedal along a slightly hilly Toscana-like landscape. You reach then Valdobbia-dene, 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, elevation up 290 m). From Valdobbia-dene you cycle southwards until you cross the Piave river and enter the Po valley. You’ll 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, situated at the con�uence of the Sile and Botteniga rivers.

7. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km, elevation up 0 m). Leaving Treviso behind you follow the course of the river Sile up to Casale. Here you’ll be surprised from the “Cimitero dei Burci”, a “graveyard” of old cargo boats, abandoned along the river from 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 is in Mestre. A supple-ment 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 and Boat (p. 31), Venice–Porec (p. 46).

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 traf�c or for short stretches on unpaved paths in good condition. Mostly in the lowlands with some hilly sections.

PARKING


BY PLANE



Bolzano–Cortina–VeniceFrom the Dolomites to the Adriatic Sea



BICYCLE RENT65 € Girolibero bike 145 € Electro-bike15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bolzano65/85 € DBL/SGLIn Mestre65/85 € DBL/SGLIn VeniceFrom 90/150 € DBL/SGL Night in Venice instead of Mestre (luggage delivered to the hotel)From 90/150 € DBL/SGL

TRANSFERSTo be con�rmed when booking the tour Mestre/Venice–Bolzano60 € per person (bike includ-ed). Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

REDUCTIONS3rd person in room: 90 €

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation,

private transfer Bolzano–Brunico, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €).Train transfer from Calalzo to Belluno (approx. 1 hour, 6 € per person + bike).

DEPARTURESEvery Sunday from May 4th to July 20th 2014 and from August 24th to September 28th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!


The Prosecco route Pedal through the vineyards to the gates of Treviso. Asolo Celebrated as

“The City of a Hundred Horizons” for its mountain settings.Three Peaks of Lavaredo Breathtaking, whether

viewed from above or below.

MAREADRIATICO

DOLOMITI/DOLOMITEN TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO

DREI ZINNEN

Bolzano/Bozen

Brunico/BruneckDobbiaco/Toblach

Cortinad’Ampezzo

Belluno

Valdobbiadene

Treviso

Venezia

Calalzo

Mestre

Asolo

Adig

e

Brenta

Piave

Sile

Verona


DAY BY DAY 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 (40/60 km, elevation up 0 m). After a few kilometres on bike, you take the ferry and then the vaporetto, passing in front of Piazza San Marco. Then you will reach Punta Sabbioni, the area furthest south of the Adriatic coast, which is to the 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–Portogrua-ro (70/40 km, elevation up 0 m). 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 where extensive �sh farming is practised) and “casoni” (constructions used by �shermen in the past during the �shing season). Next 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/Grado (60/70/85 km, elevation up 30 m). The trip can be reduced of 20 km by taking a train from Portogruato to Lati-sana. 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 one of these three: Aquileia, with its Roman excavations, Palmanova, named “the starry city” because from above the town resembles

a 9-pointed star, or Grado, a very fa-mous coastal place laying on a nice lagoon.5. Palmanova/Aquileia/Grado–Trieste (70/50/50 km elevation up 420 m)The trip can be reduced of 30 km 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 castle built according to the wishes of Massimiliano d’Asburgo, situated in a beautiful park of more than 20 hectares in size. Just a few kilome-tres lie between you and Trieste, the ancient port of the Asburgic Empire, which has much to offer in the way of attractions.6. Trieste–Portorož (45 km, elevation up 470 m). After a few kilometres you will cross over into Slovenia, often

cycling along cycle paths through fa-mous holiday resorts such as Koper, �rst 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 �nally arrive in Portorož, a town renowned for its spa and bathing facilities.7. Portorož–Porec (55 km, elevation up 470 m). Cycling southwards, you will pass 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 Porec, the tourism capital of Croatia, with its Eufrasian Basilica, which, in 1997, was declared Patrimony of Hu-manity by UNESCO. 8. Porec. After breakfast, end of ser-vices. Return to Venice by boat (option).


Venice–PorecThe lands of the ancient Republic of Venice

Italy-Slovenia-Croatia

MAR ADRIATICO

Piave

Tagliamento

Isonzo

Golfo di

Trieste

SLO

HR

I

Mestre

Venezia

Portogruaro

Oderzo

San Donà di Piave

Quartod’Altino Caorle

Aquileia

Trieste

Portorož

Porec

Jesolo

Piran

Buje

Treviso

Palmanova

Grado

MonfalconeLatisana

Marano Lagunare

Lagunadi Venezia


Italy-Slovenia-Croatia

VARIATION ON DAY 2 AND DAY 3

If hotels on the standard itinerary are not available.

2. Mestre/Venice–Oderzo (65/45/30 km elevation up 0 m). The destination of the �rst stage is Oderzo, a small town with Roman origins. You will have the possibility to shorten the stage with a train transfer to Quarto d’Altino or San Donà di Piave.3. Oderzo–Portogruaro (45 km eleva-tion up 0 m). A trip along a quiet plain rich of water will lead you to Portogruaro, an important centre of the ancient‚ “Serenissima Republic of Venice”.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 320/340 km- Total vertical up: 1.390 mt- 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 �rst three along �at roads, across the Veneto and Friuli plain, and the last three stages on slightly hillier sections.

BY PLANE

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



BICYCLE RENT70 € Girolibero bike 145 € Electro-bike 15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Mestre65 € DBL85 € SGL

In Porec65 € DBL85 € SGLIn VeniceFrom 90 € DBLFrom 150 € SGL

FERRY BOAT TRANSFERTo be con�rmed when booking the tour Transfer Porec-Venice by boat around 8 am (approx. 150 min.). Price 60-65 € per person (+ 10 € for own bikes), depending on the season. The booking (complete with full names, passport number, national-ity, date of birth) is com-pulsory when sending the reservation. In case of strike or any other reason inter-rupting the ferry service, a coach transfer service will be organized.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, Vaporetto + ferry transfer from Venice to Punta Sab-bioni (for the departure of July 19th the ferry transfer will be replaced by a coach transfer), 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €).Train transfers:Portogruaro–Latisana (approx. 10 min, 5 € per person);

Monfalcone–Trieste (approx. 25 min, 6 €).

DEPARTURESEach Saturday from April 12th to July 19th 2014 and from August 23rd to September 27th 2014.Additionally each Friday from May 30th to July 11th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!


Caorle A fishing community on the Venetian lagoon and one of the oldest Adriatic resorts. Trieste Stylish and cosmopolitan, the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s gateway

to the sea. Porec A historical melting pot on the Istrian coast, from the Romans to the Venetians.


DAY BY DAY 1. Bolzano. Arrival. Bolzano is a famous commercial and tourist centre and also a historical and cultural connection be-tween the Italian and the German world.2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation up 370 m). Today you will ride mostly along the Adige River, through orchards, 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–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 m). 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. Peschiera/Desenzano–Mantua (45/70 km, elevation up 20/200 m). Today you will follow one of the most famous Italian cycle paths, passingthrough the villages of Borghetto and Valeggio sul Mincio. The stage ends in Mantua, wonderful art city.5. Mantua–Ostiglia/Sermide (45/65 km, elevation up 0 m). Leaving Mantua along its lakes and the Mincio, you arrive at the historic lock of Governolo and join Italy’s largest waterway: the majestic River Po. A detour leads to Polirone

Abbey at San Benedetto: designed by Giulio Romano for the Benedictine Order, it remains one of the most magni� cent in northern Italy. Carrying on along the Po cycleway, you arrive at our night stop at Ostiglia or Sermide, a crossing which witnessed some of the � ercest � ghting at the end of the Second World War.6. Ostiglia/Sermide–Ferrara (65/45 km, elevation up 0 m). You resume along the Po and arrive at Stellata, a settle-ment where the star-shaped Rocca Possente, an 11th century fortress, once controlled the river’s shipping from the � oodplain. At Bondeno you veer off to

catch the scenic cycling path of the Burana Canal, tree-lined all the way to Ferrara. Once ruled by the Este dynasty and a key city state of the Italian Renais-sance, Ferrara is now a thriving univer-sity town and Italy’s “Cycling Capital”.7. Ferrara round tour (65/45 km, elevation up 0). Back to the Po river you reach the rural town of Ro where you can admire one of the last remaining � oating mills on the Po. You can choose to go back from the same way or make a detour on the countryside. 8. Ferrara. After breakfast end of services. Possibility either to book extra

nights or to combine with the tour: Veneto (p. 38).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 315/340 km- Total vertical up: 570/770 km- Terrain: 97% asphalt, 3% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2 and 6

Mainly along � at roads with only a few rolling parts. The region of South Tyrol is provided with an excellently-built cyc-lelanes system. You can ride almost exclusively on well-planned, traf� c-free cycle lanes, part of which run along the Adige banks. The second part of the tour is largely along the � ats of the Po plains, mostly on tarmac cycle paths along rivers and canals, or quiet country roads.

PARKING


BY PLANE


Adige

Adig

e

PoPo Delta

del Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Lagunadi Venezia

Ferrara

S.Benedetto

Governolo

OstigliaSermide

StellataRo

Mantova

Venezia

Treviso

Bolzano/Bozen

Trento

Riva del Garda Rovereto

Verona

Mincio

PeschieraDesenzano

VicenzaPadova

Brenta

Piave

Sile


Bolzano–FerraraThe Waterways of Northern Italy

Adige River cycle path Along Italy’s longest bike route, from Bolzano to Riva del Garda. Lake Garda

Once the playground of the rich and famous, still elegant and a natural haven. Ferrara A fl agship of Renaissance town

planning, now “Italy’s Cycling Capital”.

SEASONSStandard season: from April 19th to June 27th 2014 and from September 6th to October 6th 2014.High Season: from June 28th to September 5th 2014.



EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bolzano65/85 € DBL/SGLIn Ferrara65/85 € DBL/SGL

REDUCTIONS3rd person in room:100 €

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, buffet breakfast, welcome brie� ng in English, luggage transportation,

4-hour ferry cruise through Lake Garda, route descrip-tions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €)

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from April 19th to October 6th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!


Italy


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Peschiera del Garda, a forti� ed town surrounded by the lake’s waters, and renowned for its 19th century military architecture and art treasures.2. Peschiera del Garda–Mantua (45 km, elevation up 0 m). From Peschiera, skirting the Mincio, you follow Italy’s most famous cycleway and reach Man-tua. 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, elevation up 0 m). Leaving Mantua along its lakes and the Mincio, you arrive at the historic lock of Governolo and join Italy’s largest waterway: the majestic River Po. A detour leads to Polirone Abbey at San Benedetto: designed by Giulio Romano for the Benedictine Order, it remains one of the most magni� cent in northern Italy. Carrying on along the Po cycleway, you arrive to the overnight stay in Ostiglia or Sermide, a crossing which witnessed some of the � ercest � ghting at the end of the Second World War.4. Ostiglia/Sermide–Ferrara (65/45 km, elevation up 0 m). You resume along the Po and arrive at Stellata, a settle-ment where the star-shaped Rocca Possente, an 11th century fortress, once controlled the river’s shipping from the � oodplain. At Bondeno you veer off to catch the scenic cycling path of the

Burana Canal, tree-lined all the way to Ferrara. Once ruled by the Este dynasty and a key city state of the Italian Renais-sance, Ferrara is now a thriving univer-sity town and Italy’s “Cycling Capital”.5. Ferrara–Ostellato (40 km, elevation up 0 m). Today’s stage offers the discov-ery of two of the Este family’s celebrated Delizie: Belriguardo and Verginese. Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, both form part of the collection of coun-try retreats and hunting lodges playfully known as “Delights”. Along with Ferrara itself, in its day a pioneering example of town planning, these villas are listed as World Heritage Sites by virtue of their seemless fusion of Renaissance vision and natural landscape. Overnight stop at Ostellato.

6. Ostellato–Po Delta (55/60 km, elevation up 0 m). The Po di Primaro cycleway leads to the 9th century Abbey of Pomposa, a major centre of learning in the Dark Ages. Cycling towards the coast through the Mesola Forest Nature Re-serve, you emerge at the tiny � shermen’s harbour of Goro, with its picturesque waterfront. Welcome to the Po Delta, its � shing “valleys” and brackish lagoon, home to over 300 species of birds.7. Po Delta Round Tour (50 km, eleva-tion up 0 m). Following the cycleway that joins seven beaches through a landscape of pine woods and white dunes, you arrive at Comacchio, a small town in the heart of the lagoon and considered the Delta’s capital. Founded on 13 islets linked by bridges and canals, Comacchio

also boasts the area’s richest historic centre. Pushing deeper into the lagoon, you explore its � shing farms, or “val-leys”, with their � shermen’s shacks, salt marshes and, hopefully, spot some of the Delta’s unmissable � amingoes. The loop takes you back to our hotel.8. Po Delta. Breakfast and end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 300 km- Total vertical up: 0 m- Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 3, 4 and 5- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 4 and 6

The tour is completely on � at terrain and along cycling tracks – typically embank-ments and country paths – and occa-sional minor roads with low-level traf� c. Some stretches within the Po Delta Reserve are on rough (but unchallenging) tracks, although the tour is largely on tarmacked surfaces.

PARKING

In Peschiera: free in unguarded public parking at approx. 1 km from the hotel.

BY PLANE

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


From Lake Garda to the Adriatic Peschiera–Ferrara–Po Delta

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3/4*Hotels 628 € DBL+ 180 € SGL

BICYCLE RENT65 € Girolibero bike15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Peschiera65/90 € DBL/SGLIn Po Delta area50/65 € DBL/SGL

TRANSFERSTo be con� rmed when booking the tour Po Delta–Peschiera del Garda290 € (up to 4 persons)350 € (5-8 persons)


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, lug-gage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

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

DEPARTURESEvery Sunday from April 13th to July 20th and from August 24th to October 5th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!


Lake Garda Sail across the lake beloved by poets and artists through the ages. Ferrara and Mantua

Two Renaissance jewels which have fl ourished along the Po river banks. Po Delta and Adriatic Sea Cycling

through broad swathe of lagoons, fi shing farms and beaches.

Adige

PoPo

Delta del Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Ferrara

S.Benedetto

Governolo

OstigliaSermide

Stellata

Ostellato

Pomposa

Comacchio

Mantova

Venezia

Treviso

Verona

Min

cio

Peschiera


DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival at the hotel.2. Renon roundtour (35 km, elevation up 300 m). 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, elevation up 400 m). 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 oppor-tunity for a visit to Bolzano or to relax in the hotel. Its mediaeval city centre, Gothic and Romanesque churches and bilingual signage give it a unique �avour of a city at the crossroads of Italian and Austrian cultures. For those who wish to pedal also today, we suggest the itiner-ary 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, elevation up 500 m). 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 �nally to the capital of South Tyrol.6. Merano–Bolzano (35 km elevation up 50 m). 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 �rst stage on Renon plateau.

PARKING In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no reservation possible, to be paid on-site).

BY PLANE


Italy

Merano/Meran

Vipiteno/Sterzing

Bressanone/Brixen

Ora/Auer

Appiano

Fortezza

Ponte Gardena

I

AIsarco/Eisack

Etsch

Lago di

Caldaro

Bolzano/Bozen

Renon/Ritten


South Tyrol ValleysBike & relax around Bolzano

Cycle paths Among the best in Italy, to suit all abilities – from meadows to mountains.

Centre-based A single home from home, enabling you to plan your excursions at will. Lake Caldaro Nestled in the Dolomites

near Bolzano: swim, hike, enjoy the wine route.


SELF GUIDED TOUR4* Hotel (Hotel Scala or equivalent if not available)520 € DBL+ 198 € SGL+ 30 € High season


EXTRA NIGHTS In Bolzano65 € DBL 85 € SGL

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE6 nights hotel accommoda-tion, buffet breakfast, route description and maps, train tickets for Bolzano–Bressa-none and Bolzano–Merano, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICECable railway Bolzano–Renon (about 12 €);Local taxes. DEPARTURESEvery day from April 12th to September 27th 2014.



DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Peschiera del Garda, a veritable city-fortress completely surrounded by water, an architectural jewel of art and culture.2. Peschiera, round tour (40 km, elevation up 170 m). First day on bike among fruit plantations and vine-yards of the eminent Lugana still white wine, characteristic of this region. You arrive in Solferino, the site of the famous battle that ended the Second War of Independence, providing the basis for a united Italy.3. Peschiera del Garda–Desenzano del Garda (45 km, elevation up 310 m). In the search for 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 pass 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. Alternative excursion to Sirmione by public trans-portation. 5. Peschiera del Garda–Verona (45 km, elevation up 150 m). 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 Peschi-era del Garda for the night. 6. Peschiera del Garda–Mantua (35 km, elevation up 20 m). An evocative route which is suitable for everyone along one of the most famous and loved cycle paths of 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 over-night 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. 31-33).

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 toVerona has slightly more traf�c but onlyfor a short stretch.

BY PLANE


Italy

Lago diGarda

Adige

Adi

ge

Minc

io

Laghidi

Mantova

Peschiera Verona

Mantova

Desenzano

Bussolengo

Valeggio sul Mincio

Solferino

Sirmione


Lake Garda Roundtour from Peschiera del Garda

Temperate climate Naturally beautiful, ideal for cycling and celebrated for its wines. Sirmione

Ancient lakeside settlement, beloved by Catullus, Tennyson, Maria Callas...Tortelli of Valeggio. Pasta in Paradise,

since the 14th century, on the banks of the Mincio.

SEASONSStandard season: from April 12th to May 24th 2014 and from September 13th to September 27th 2014.High season: from May 25th to September 12th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOUR3* Hotel (Hotel Puccini or equivalent if not available)510 € DBL+ 198 € SGL+ 80 € High season


EXTRA NIGHTS In Peschiera55 € DBL85 € SGLIn Verona65 € DBL85 € SGL

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE6 nights hotel accommoda-tion, buffet breakfast, route description & maps, train tickets for Desenzano–Peschiera, Verona–Peschiera

and Mantua–Pescheria as in the itinerary, 7-day service hotline.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 8 €). DEPARTURESEvery day from April 12th to September 27th 2014.



DAY BY DAY 1. Abano/Montegrotto. Arrival at the hotel.2. Euganei Hills (45 km, elevation up 170 m). A delightful itinerary through the Natural Park of the Euganei hills and its wonderful sights. The �rst stop will be in the gardens of Villa Barbarigo in Valsan-zibio, one of the most important exam-ples of the classical Italian garden. You will then visit the medieval town of Arquà Petrarca. The destination of your excur-sion is the walled town of Monselice, a strategic medieval fortress. 3. Padua (35 km, elevation up 0 m). A series of country roads will take you to the unique sixteenth-century Villa Emo Capodilista, now also a prestigious vine-growing and wine-making estate.Following the Bacchiglione river you will come to Padua. You will have a whole free afternoon to discover the wonders this city can offer, 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 by bike + 50 km by train, elevation up 0 m). From Abano you join the Brenta canal, which was built by the Venetians to link Padua with the Venice lagoon and immediately became a crucial communi-cation and trade route. Sumptuous villas were built here between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries. Three of the most stately buildings are the eight-eenth-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 World Heritage Site. The return journey is by train, from Mestre.6. Praglia–Villa dei Vescovi (30 km, elevation up 70 m). You conclude the week with an easy itinerary that will take you to the celebrated Benedictine abbey in Praglia, founded in the eleventh century and for centuries a key agricul-tural management centre for the Paduan countryside. The abbey is now a centre of excellence for the restoration of

antique books. The itinerary continues towards the majestic Villa dei Vescovi, designed in the sixteenth century. A few relaxing hours can be spent while visiting the interiors and enjoying a picnic in the gardens.7. Abano/Montegrotto. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with tour Mantua–Venice/Venice–Mantua (p. 30-31), Veneto (p. 38).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 160 km- Total vertical up: 240 m- Terrain: 85% asphalt, 15% unpaved

Four simple itineraries totalling about160 km, all relatively level except for the�rst, which includes very little differencein altitude. The routes are along safecycle paths or roads with very littletraf�c.

PARKING

In Abano/Montegrotto: free in the private parking place of the hotel.

BY PLANE

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

LAGUNADI VENEZIA

Brenta

Sile

BrentaBacchiglioneAbanoTerme

Padova

Praglia

LuviglianoMontegrotto terme

Monselice

Arquà Petrarca

Stra

Mira

Venezia

Chioggia

Mestre


Terme EuganeeAbano and Montegrotto

Euganean Hills Regional Park A lush and striking outcrop of volcanic origin. Padova One of the Veneto’s

Cities of Art, home of Giotto’s remarkable Scrovegni frescos. Thermal springs and wellness

Abano Terme speaks for itself.

SEASONSStandard season: from April 19th to June 22nd 2014 and from September 6th to October 4th 2014.High season: from June 23rd to September 5th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOUR3* Hotel (Hotel Aqua or equivalent if not available)435 € DBL+ 200 € SGL+ 40 € High season


HALF BOARD80 € 3 dinners included (3-course meals)140 € 6 dinners included (3-course meals)Beverages not included.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE6 nights hotel accommoda-tion, buffet breakfast, route description and maps, swimming pool entrance, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes.Special treatments at the hotel Spa.Train transfer:Mestre–Terme Euganee (ap-prox 45 min, 8 € per person)

DEPARTURESEvery day from April 19th to October 4th 2014.


Italy


DAY BY DAY ITINERARY 1. Alessandria. Arrival in Alessandria, a city divided by the river Tanaro. Worth a visit is Piazza della Libertà and Piazza Duomo with its wonderful neoclassical cathedral. 2. Alessandria–Acqui Terme (50 km, elevation up 530 m). You cycle for a few Kilometers along the Strada Franca, an ancient road dating back to 1454. You will pass across smooth hills, woods and small isolated villages where you will be able to taste local products and excellent local wines (Barbera and Dolcetto d’Acqui among others). Acqui Terme: famous for its spring waters, like the “Bollente” situated in the historical centre.3. Acqui Terme–Alba (55 km, elevation up 1,000 m). You come across the famous hills of the Langhe, the country-side and the vineyards as well as the splendid small villages of Montabone, Rocchetta Palafea and Canelli. The stage ends in Alba, home of the most precious of the truf�es, the Tartufo Bianco, and of the famous “Dolcetto d’Alba”. 4. Alba–Asti (35 km, elevation up 250 m). A route through vineyards and along panoramic paths which will eventually take you to Asti in the heart of Monfer-rato. Do visit the historical centre with its famous towers, the Romanic monu-ments and the splendid Gothic cathedral.5. Excursion to Torino or Asti round tour (35 km, elevation up 300 m).

Today you have a choice between cycling across the Asti hills and their nature parks and a trip by train to Torino, which can be reached in about one hour. Torino, the �rst capital of Italy, is a city with splendid monuments, tree-lined roads and ancient cafés, which offer a choice of chocolate-based specialties.6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (55 km, elevation up 700 m). Take advantage of the hospitality of the wine cellars and restaurants along the way, which offer an excellent eno-gastronomical choice. In Monferrato you will eventually meet the river Po, the longest river in Italy.7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria (45 km, elevation up 150 m). Further cycling across green hills and cultivated

lands. Passing through the small villages on the right side of the Po river you will return to Alessandria where the tour ends.8. Alessandria. Departure after break-fast. Possibility to book extra nights.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 240/275 km- Total vertical up: 2,630/2,930 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 dif�culty mainly running on paved roads with low traf�c.

The highest elevation gap is on the stages Acqui Terme–Alba and Asti–Casale Monferrato. A bit more traf�c is to be faced when approaching the towns of Alessandria and Asti.

PARKING

In Alessandria: private garage at a cost of approx 12 € per day close to the hotel (no reservation possible, to be paid on-site).

BY PLANE

Alessandria is well connected (60 – 180 min.) with the following airports: Torino (TRN), Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) and Milano Malpensa (MXP).

Torino

Alessandria

Casale Monferrato

Asti

Alba

Neive

CanelliAcqui Terme

Po

Po

Tanaro

Borm

ida


PiedmontWine and food lovers’ paradise!

SELF GUIDED TOUR3/4* Hotels 655 € DBL+ 175 € SGL


EXTRA NIGHTS In Alessandria55 € DBL75 € SGL


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation,

route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10 €).Train transfer to Torino (approx. 45 min., 7 € per person + bike ).



Italy

Truffles The famous local “Black Diamonds” are often used in Piedmontese gastronomy. Vineyards Cycle through

acre upon acre of vineyards and lush, hilly farmland. Langhe The renowned wine-producing region,

home of Barolo, Barbera and Dolcetto.


Italy

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 cathe-dral. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1987, besides a large number of monuments it also offers a friendly and lively atmosphere of a university city. 2. Pisa–Lucca (30/45 km, elevation up 20/100 m). 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, eleva-tion up 280 m). 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 child-hood, you could visit the famous Pinoc-chio’s Park (created in 1962) and the aristocratic Villa Garzoni. In Pescia you could enjoy a quiet stroll among church-es, palaces, Renaissance mansions and the local � ower street market.4. Montecatini–Montecatini (60 km, elevation up 310 m). 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 character-istic cable-railway. Otherwise a pictur-

esque itinerary will lead you among villas of the Medici family, olive groves, vine-yards and beautiful historical farms, going past Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace (visit to the museum possible).5. Montecatini–Florence (50/65 km, elevation up 150/400 m). Today you have to 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 (in particular churches) and

having one of the most evocative squares in Italy: Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square). From here back into the saddle, immersed in the Tuscan � atland, to reach Florence6. 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, elevation up 100/300 m). 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 tour: Umbria (p. 56)

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, day 5 and 7.

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

PARKING

In Pisa: free parking place at the � rst hotel, for the whole duration of the tour.

BY PLANE

You can � y to Pisa airport (PSA) with various low cost companies.

Arno

Lago diMassaciuccoli

MARTIRRENO

MONTIPISANI

Pistoia

Collodi

MontecatiniTerme

Vinci

Empoli

Pisa

Lucca Poggio a Caiano

Firenze


TuscanyBetween Pisa and Florence

Pisa The ancient university town renowned for its iconic Tower, a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Montecatini Terme This charming spa town in the hills has attracted visitors for centuries. Florence Cradle of

the Renaissance and relished by art lovers worldwide.

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3/4* Hotels698 € DBL+ 195 € SGL


EXTRA NIGHTS In Pisa60 € DBL90 € SGL


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie� ng in English, luggage trans-portation, route description and maps, 7-day Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes: (approx 10-15 €).Train transfers:Montecatini–Pistoia (approx. 10 min., 4 € per person); Florence–Empoli (approx. 30 min., 6 € per person); Empoli–Pisa (approx. 30 min., 6 € per person).

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from April 19th to October 4th 2014.Additionally every Monday from June 30th to July 28th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!



DAY BY DAY ITINERARY 1. Siena. Arrival. 2. Siena–Radda in Chianti (45 km, elevation up 900 m). From Siena you start to head north towards the beautiful village of Radda in Chianti. The remains of its ancient walls show the historical signi�cance that this town had in the competition between Florence and Siena. 3. Radda in Chianti–Greve (40 km, elevation up 500 m). The route brings you to Greve over the rounded hills with beautiful views.4. Greve–Florence (40 km, elevation up 600 m). Florence, capital of the region of Tuscany, spreads on the banks of the Arno, between the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian seas, almost in the middle of the Italian peninsula. Two of the many artists associated with Florence are Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo Buonarroti.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. Florence is also famous for its magni�-cent art and architecture.6. Florence–Colle Val D’Elsa (40 km by train + 25 km by bike, elevation up 480 m). 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, elevation up 700 m). 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 either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Pisa–Florence (p. 55) or Umbria (p. 56).

VARIATION

5. Florence–Tavarnelle (40 km, eleva-tion up 700 m). The village of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa has Roman origins; it is named after the ancient taverns offering

accommodation and refreshment lo-cated along the road which linked Florence to Siena and thence to Rome.6. Tavarnelle–Colle Val D’Elsa (45 km, elevation up 490 m). From Tavarnelle you cycle to Colle di Val d’Elsa, which lies in the heart of Tuscany, in a strategi-cally 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 re-mained as it was in the Middle Ages. Further on you come across San Gimig-nano, which rises on a hill dominating

the Elsa Valley with its towers.7. Colle Val D’Elsa–Siena (40 km, elevation up 700 m). Standard tour. 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 over-whelmingly 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 forthis tour.

PARKING

In Siena: free parking in fenced parking place at approx. 1 km from the hotel, booking is compulsory.

BY PLANE

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

Arno

MARTIRRENO

Pisa

Livorno

Firenze

Siena

S. Gimignano

Colle Val d’Elsa

Greve in Chianti

Radda in Chianti

Certaldo

Tavarnelle

Empoli


TuscanyFlorence, Siena and the Chianti

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3* Hotels, b&b, agriturismo698 € DBL + 195 € SGL

Variation2/3* Hotels, b&b, agriturismo648 € DBL+ 195 € SGL


HALF BOARD 170 € 6 dinners included (3-course meals), beverages not included.

EXTRA NIGHTS In Florence75/130 € DBL/ SGLIn Siena60/90 € DBL/SGL


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accommoda-tion, free fenced parking place, breakfast buffet, luggage transporta-tion, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €).Train transfer: Florence–Certaldo (approx. 50 min., 7 € per person + bike).

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from April 19th to September 27th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I17 - Variation tour code I31

Italy

Siena Home of the historical, fast and furious Palio race in Piazza del Campo. Wine The Chianti

hillsides produce some of Italy’s noblest wines. Florence Refined and unrushed, a magnet for

culture vultures and shopaholics alike.


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Individual arrival in Orvieto. This breathtaking city was built on the summit of a butte of white tuff and therefore it seems like a fortress stand-ing on the impressive cliffs and over-looking the Umbrian countryside. The Gothic façade of the cathedral of Orvieto is just one of the many unique monu-ments covering millenniums of history.2. Orvieto–Castiglione del Lago (30 km transfer + 40/50 km by bike, eleva-tion up 400 m). After a small trip by train to Fabro and its beautiful castle over-looking the Chiana Valley, you start cycling over the rolling hills. You have two choices: either going a bit uphill through Città della Pieve (a medieval village still surrounded by fourteenth-century city walls and birthplace of the famous painter “il Perugino”) or through an easier but longer stretch through Chiusi. The perfectly preserved medieval town of Castiglione del Lago and its imposing castle surrounded by walls awaits you.3. Castiglione del Lago–Perugia (40 km by bike + 20 km by train, elevation up 630 m). Following the northern shores of the lake, passing through Passignano del Trasimeno, and crossing hills to �nally reach Magione and its castle Cavalieri di Malta. From here you have a short transfer by train to reach Perugia. This city was built as an acropolis on the

hills and has a splendid old town centre surrounded by Etruscan city walls. 4. Perugia–Assisi (35 km, elevation up 320 m). Today there is an easy trip. After having crossed the Tiber plain the stage leads you to Santa Maria degli Angeli at the foot of the hill of Assisi, where many places are linked to the everyday life of Saint Francis of Assisi. Afterwards you then reach the town of Assisi, which will astonish you with its art, monuments and the great atmosphere. The 13th century Basilica di San Francesco is the mother church of the Franciscan Order and burial place of St. Francis. 5. Assisi–Spoleto (45/50 km, elevation up 570 m). This is the most exciting trip

of the tour with many possible stops. The �rst one is Spello, a walled town lying on the ridge of Monte Subasio, with a large number of Roman ruins. You then cycle crossing the Umbrian countryside towards Foligno, famous for its “Piazza della Repubblica” and “Piazza del Duomo”. A small detour leads you to Bevagna and afterwards you can cycle on towards Trevi getting then back to the the main itinerary. The stage ends in Spoleto, a well preserved medieval village, nowadays a �ourishing cultural centre of international fame.6. Spoleto–Todi (60 km, elevation up 620 m). From Spoleto you cycle on towards the village of Castel Ritardi and from this point you leave the Umbrian valley to enter beautiful hills covered with oak and olive trees as far as Todi, considered one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy, perched on a hill and overlooking the Tiber valley. 7. Todi–Orvieto (45/55 km, elevation up 720 m). Today’s stage leads you through small villages in the middle of the nature. There are some hilly sections, which are however not too dif�cult to face. A variation of the stage takes you along a bank of the Lake Corbara. On the last kilometres the white tuff cliff town of Orvieto suddenly emerges from the splendid rolling hills.8. Orvieto. Departure after breakfast.Possibility either to book extra nights or

to combine with tour: Tuscany Pisa–Florence (p. 54).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 265/290 km- Total vertical up: 3,260 m- Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 3, 4, 5- Possibility to shorten the itinerary taking the train: day 2, 3, 5

The level of dif�culty of this itinerary is moderate. The route follows mainly the asphalt low traf�c roads and each day you will have to climb a few little steep slopes. On the last two stages between Spoleto and Orvieto you will have the challenge of some more dif�cult slopes.

PARKING

In Orvieto: private garage at a cost of approx 12 € per day close to the hotel (no reservation possible, to be paid on-site).

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.).

Fabro

Orvieto

Castiglione del Lago

Perugia Assisi

Arezzo

SpoletoTodi

Lago Trasimeno

Lago di Bolsena

Città della Pieve

Chiusi

Magione

FolignoSpello

Bevagna

Tevere


UmbriaThe green and spiritual heart of Italy

Assisi The Basilica of Saint Francis holds pride of place with its frescos by Giotto. Lake Trasimeno Italy’s

largest, with history and nature in harmony.Orvieto Rising dramatically above volcanic cliffs,

one of Umbria’s cultural jewels.

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3/4* Hotels685 € DBL+ 175 € SGL


EXTRA NIGHTS In Orvieto60 € DBL80 € SGL


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation,

route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10 €).Train transfers:Orvieto–Fabro (approx. 20 min., 4 € per person);Magione–Perugia (approx. 30 min., 6 € per person).

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from May 3rd to September 20th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!



DAY BY DAY 1. Matera. Arrival. For millennia, inhabit-ants of this 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” and are today a World Heritage site.2. Matera–Alberobello (70 km, eleva-tion up 400 m). You cycle to the famous trulli of Alberobello and Locorotondo. Trulli were generally constructed as dwellings or storehouses. Alberobello is situated upon two hills, once separated by a riverbed. On the eastern hill is the new town, with modern archi tectural features. On the western hill, the trulli are lined up in an urban conglomeration, subdivided into two districts: Monti and Aia Piccola, both National Monuments from 1930, and today World Heritage sites. 3. Alberobello–Ostuni (45 km, eleva-tion up 280 m). You cycle through the countryside to Ostuni, which is reputed as an architectural jewel, and is com-monly referred to as “the White Town” for its white walls and its typically white-painted architecture.4. Ostuni–Lecce–Gallipoli (70 km by train + 50 km by bike, eleva-tion up 70 m). A train transfer brings you to Lecce. After a few Kilometers through this amazing Baroque town, you go deep into “salentinian countryside”, before

approaching the Ionian coast and your daily destination, Gallipoli.5. Gallipoli–Santa Maria di Leuca (50 km, elevation up 50 m). Cycling further along the coast you will reach Santa Maria di Leuca. The name Santa Maria di Leuca 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. Santa Maria di Leuca is a famous seaside resort and a �shing area.6. Santa Maria di Leuca–Otranto

(50 km, elevation up 550 m). 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, elevation up 100 m). Riding along the Alimini Lakes and their unique Mediterranean bush you will enter Lecce. Thanks to its Baroque style, it has earned the nick-name of Florence of the South. You will come to appreciate the rich sculpted

motives done in the 17th-century with the tender stone from Lecce. The old town enclosed by what is left of the ancient walls, bears the impression of that exuberant period.8. Lecce. Departure after breakfast. Possibility to book extra nights.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total Length: 320 km- Total vertical up: 1,450 m- Terrain: 99% asphalt, 1% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 4. - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3.

Mostly in the lowlands, sometimes hilly. Traf�c is almost non existent in Apulia except during the high holiday season. The route includes very beautiful stretches on the coast.

BY PLANE

Matera is well connected (90 min.) with Bari airport (BRI). Lecce is well connected by train with the airports of Bari and Brindisi.


ApuliaOlive groves and crystal seas

SELF GUIDED TOUR3/4* Hotels (in Alberobello Trulli, B&B or residence )645 € DBL+ 180 € SGL

BICYCLE RENT 70 € Girolibero bike15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTS In Matera60 € DBL90 € SGLIn Lecce60 € DBL90 € SGL

TRANSFERSTo be con�rmed when booking the tour Bari–Matera 45 € per person (min. 2 persons);Lecce–Matera 70 € per person (min. 2 persons);

Lecce–Bari 280 € (up to. 4 persons);Lecce–Bari 340 € (5-8 persons).


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10-15 €).Train Transfer Ostuni–Lecce (approx 60 min., 8 € per person + bike).

DEPARTURESEach Saturday from March 29th to June 14th and from August 30th to October 18th. Special departure dates can be organised for at least 6 persons!


Italy

Trulli Spend a night in a trullo, an ancient dry-stone “hut”, at Alberobello. Matera Its historic centre dug

out of rock, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sea Apulia enjoys a coastline of clean waters,

crags, coves and fine sands.

MAR IONIO

MAR ADRIATICO

Bari

Matera

Taranto

BrindisiLocorotondoGioia

del Colle

Otranto

Lecce

Ostuni

Alberobello

Gallipoli

S. Maria di Leuca


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Caltagirone. Arrival. 2. Caltagirone–Piazza Armerina– Caltagirone (35 km, elevation up 500 m). In the morning there is a transfer to Piazza Armerina with its Villa Romana del Casale, 5 km southwest of town. First excavated in 1950, it was probably a hunting lodge and summer home and is decorated with multicoloured mosaic �oors that are unique throughout the Roman world in their quality and extend. After the visit cycle back to Caltagirone.3. Caltagirone–Modica (45 km by bike + 40 km transfer, elevation up 650 m). 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 magni�cent 18th century façade of the church of San Giorgio.4. Modica–Pozzallo (35 km, elevation up 180 m). Before leaving Modica try the famous spicy chocolate. From Modica you will gradually descend alongside the caves characteristic of the Iblei moun-tains to Scicli, totally rebuilt in the Baroque style after the earthquake of 1693. Continue onwards through the marine centre of Pozzallo.5. Pozzallo–Marzamemi (55 km, elevation up 100 m). This day of cycling on an almost completely �at course will bring you through Portopalo di Capo Passero, continental Europe’s southern-

most point. Before arriving to Marzam-emi, the beautiful island of Correnti marks where the Ionian and Mediterra-nean seas meet.6. Marzamemi–Noto (25 km, elevation up 180 m). The route takes a turn to the north passing through the relatively untouched and pristine natural preserve of Vendicari, where you can relish the beauty of the countryside. The trip continues north, ending the day at the city of Noto, considered to be the �nest

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 with ornate churches and monuments surrounding attractive piazzas.7. Noto–Siracusa (35 km, elevation up 60 m). Heading north, the route contin-ues towards Siracusa, the capital of Ancient Greece and home to Archime-des. With the Island of Ortigia in the

background, the centre of Siracusa is a wonderful example of an 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 mt- 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 traf�c side roads except for the short part entering Siracusa. Most of the stretches are on lowlands with some slightly hilly passa-ges. This tour is however suggested to people with a minimum of bike practise.

BY PLANE

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

PARCODELL'ETNA

MARMEDITERRANEO

MAR IONIO

Modica

Pozzallo Marzamemi

Noto

Siracusa

Vittoria

Catania

Piazza Armerina

Ragusa

Caltagirone

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

SicilyThe land of lemons and oranges

Fish The freshest catch on your plate, along a coastline of fishing communities. Sleepy villages,

timeless mule tracks, unrushed hospitality. Noto Jewel in the crown of Sicily’s

baroque towns and villages. As for the marzipan...

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3* Hotels, B&B or agriturismo645 € DBL+ 180 € SGL

Variation 7 days/6 nightsArrival on Sunday in Caltagirone605 € DBL+ 150 € SGL


EXTRA NIGHTS In Caltagirone45 € DBL65 € SGLIn Siracusa50 € DBL75 € SGL

TRANSFERSTo be con�rmed when booking the tour (min. 2 pax)Catania–Caltagirone50 € per person;Siracusa–Catania60 € per person.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7/6 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, transfer from Caltagirone to

Piazza Armerina and from Vittoria to Modica, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10 €).

DEPARTURESEach Saturday from March 29th to June 14th 2014 and from August 30th to October 18th 2014.Special departure dates can be organised for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I28 - Variation tour code I29


DAY BY DAY 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, elevation up 20 m). We leave the city and we go into the delta of the Rhône, better known as “Camargue”, where nature still prevails over civilization. We will cycle among cane �elds, salt lakes, �amingos, horses and bulls. We will stop in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and then we will continue towards the medieval fortress of Aigues-Mortes.3. Aigues-Mortes–Nîmes (40 km, elevation up 80 m). Back to civilization. Following streets with low traf�c we reach the populated centre of Nîmes; rich in art and history, it is also called the “Rome of France”, but it also re-minds Spain with its arenas and bull-�ghting.4. Nîmes–Uzès (45 km, elevation up 260 m). After a tour of the city, sur-rounded by its Roman past, you will cycle up to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a truly spectacular work. You can refresh with a bath on the banks of the river Gard before reaching Uzès.5. Uzès–Avignon (50 km, elevation up 220 m). Riding through gentle hills, today we will reach the capital of Provence. It was a papal city for nearly a century and here seven popes decided,

in 1300, the destiny of the Christian Church. A real open air museum. Before the arrival, stop at the beautiful ancient village of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.6. Avignon–Châteauneuf-du-Pape–Avignon (45 km, elevation up 100 m). We will cycle towards Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low-traf�c roads and surrounded by vineyards. We cross the river Rhône at the height of Roquemaure and we will come back in Villeneuve along the Rhône banks.7. Avignon–Arles (60 km, elevation up 300 m). After leaving the Palace of the Popes, we will cycle again to close the tour returning to Arles. Along the way,

we cannot miss a stop at the famous Saint-Rémi-de-Provence and Les-Baux-de-Provence made well-known through-out the world by 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, 7- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3 and 7.

Route mostly on low traf�c roads in rural and city areas. Short stretches are on unpaved roads. A couple of days present some short uphill with the only relevant ascent to Les-Baux-de-Provence (4km of gentle ascent).

BY PLANE

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


Provence and CamargueRoman sites and Van Gogh landscapes

SEASONSStandard season: from April 5th to June 28th 2014 and from September 28th to October 11th 2014.High season: from June 29th to September 27th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3/4* Hotels695 € DBL+ 225 € SGL+ 45 € High season


EXTRA NIGHTS In Arles70 € DBL105 € SGLIn July and August prices on request.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, welcome brie�ng in English, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from April 5th to June 28th and from July 26th to October 11th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Tour code F13

Avignon The splendid city of exiled Popes, fine wines and the acclaimed theatre festival.

Camargue Nature Park Wild white horses, black bulls and flushed flamingoes. Uzès Lofty and picturesque town with a colourful history, from the Romans to the Cathars.

France

Aigues-Mortes

Montpellier

Arles

Avignon

Réserve Naturelle de Camargue

Nîmes

St. Maries-de-la-Mer

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Les-Baux-de-Provence

Pont du Gard

Uzès

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

F

Grand Rhône

Petit

Rhône


DAY BY DAY 1. Orléans. Independent arrival in Orléans, homeland of Joan of Arc.2. Orléans–Beaugency/St. Dyé (30/50 km, elevation up 0 m). 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, elevation up 140 m). 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, elevation up 80 m). 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, elevation up 200 m). After the forest of Amboise you arrive to 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, elevation up 140 m). 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 there is the castle of Sleeping Beauty.7. Chinon–Saumur (35 km, elevation up

160 m). The tour continues along coun-try roads beyond the con�uence of the rivers Loire and Vienne arriving in Savi-gny 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 Abbey. At the end of the stage you will visit Saumur, considered the “Pearl of Anjou”.8. Saumur. After breakfast end of services.

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.

On 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 low volume of traf�c.

PARKING

In Orléans: unguarded free parking inside the hotel property included in the price.

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


Loire valleyFrom Orléans to Saumur

Orléans

Tours

St.Dye

Blois

Amboise

Chinon

Chambord

Beaugency

ChevernyChaumont

Cher

Indr

e

Vienne

Rigny-Ussé

Saumur

Villandry Chenonceaux

Loire

Loire

Angers F


France

SEASONSStandard season:from April 26th to June 6th 2014 and from August 30th to September 27th 2014.High season:from June 7th to August 29th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOURCat. B: mainly 2* Hotels + one 3* Hotel580 € DBL+ 175 € SGL+ 35 € High season

Cat. A: mainly 3* Hotels + few 2* Hotels670 € DBL+ 200 € SGL+ 45 € High season


HALF BOARD150 € Cat. B 160 € Cat. A6 dinners included (except the one in Tours), bever-ages not included and to be paid on site.

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Orléans55 € Cat. A / B - DBL 85 € Cat. A / B - SGL In Saumur55 € Cat. B - DBL 85 € Cat. B - SGL 65 € Cat. A - DBL 100 € Cat. A - SGL

TRANSFERS To be con�rmed when booking the tourSaumur–Orléans65 € per person (bike included).Only on Saturday.

REDUCTIONS3rd person in room: 60 € Cat. B80 € Cat. A

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transpor-tation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from April 26th to September 27th 2014.Additionally every Sunday from June 1st to September 7th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Tour code F03

Château de Chambord King of all the Loire castles, famously welcomed Molière. Tours The town is a UNESCO

Heritage Site, with its fabled cathedral, castle and wines. Forest of Blois Immerse yourself in nature as

you cycle from Blois to Amboise.

VARIANTEORLÉANS–TOURS

| | 175 km | 6 Days

Tour code F04

DAY BY DAY1. Orléans. 2. Orléans–Beaugency/St. Dyé.3. Beaugency/St. Dyé–Blois.4. Blois–Amboise. 5. Amboise–Tours.6. Tours.

PRICE PER PERSONCat. B:445 € DBL+ 125 € SGL+ 20 € High seasonCat. A:510 € DBL+ 140 € SGL+ 30 € High season

BICYCLE RENT+ 50/125 € Girolibero bike/e-bike

HALF BOARD+ 110 € Half board* Cat. B+ 120 € Half board* Cat. A*4 dinners (except the one in Tours), beverages not included

INCLUDED 5 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, wel-come brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, Hotline service, hotel taxes.

DEPARTURES Every Saturday from April 26th to September 27th. Additionally every Sunday from June 1st to September 7th 2014.


Paris–LondonDAY BY DAY 1. Bienvenue à Paris! Those arriving in the early afternoon can make a �rst visit of the Ville Lumière.2. Paris–Cergy (55 km, elevation up 100 m). Au revoir Paris! Starting from Notre Dame you can either choose to leave Paris from Canal St Denis or to 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 impres-sionists, once a choice for Sunday trips, somewhere to spend the afternoon en plen air on a boat between the Seine and the Marne. Welcome to the Promenade Bleue in Paris! 3. Cergy–Gisors (65 km, elevation up

350 m ). Your journey continues through the heart of the Vexin natural park, home to picturesque towns, castles and farm-houses. After Théméricourt and its spectacular Maison du Parc, you con-tinue to Villarceaux and its eighteenth-century castle of the same name. After the little 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–Forges-les-Eaux (65 km, elevation up 515 m ). Departure from Gisors for Gournay-en-Bray and then on to Forges-les-Eaux, the renowned spa resort. Welcome to Normandy, or rather to Gourmandie, land of unique �avours! 5. Forges-les-Eaux–Newhaven (60 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 60 m). 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 refuge for marsh birds. Here you are in Dieppe, France’s leading seaside resort and a favourite with a great many impressionist painters. Appointment on the quayside for the trip across the Channel. Overnight in New haven after the crossing. 6. Newhaven–East Grinstead (55 km, elevation up 560 m). 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 Heath�eld. From here it gets more dif�cult but once in Groombridge it will be �at again. Following the Forest Way you arrive to the historic local market town of East Grinstead.7. East Grinstead-London (45 km, elevation up 90 m). 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 quite districts to the heart of London. Your �nish line for the week will be Westminster.8. London. After breakfast, goodbye and au revoir!

London–ParisDAY BY DAY 1. Welcome to London. Individual arrival at the hotel. 2. London–Newhaven (55 km, elevation up 280 m). You leave London by bike starting from the magni�cent Westmin-ster and River Thames. Heading south through green parks and quite districts you arrive to Coulsdon where you take the train (not included in the package) to Brighton. You can visit the city, one of the best loved in Great Britain, and then pedal to Newhaven along the coast where you will stay overnight.3. Newhaven–Dieppe (20 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 0 m). The Channel crossing brings you to Dieppe, France’s leading seaside resort. The crossing takes 4 hrs. In Dieppe stretch your legswith a ride along the coast or relax in thesun on its beaches.4. Dieppe–Forges-les-Eaux (60 km, elevation up 220 m). You will leave behind the sea and the blue of the �rst part of this stage as you enter the green of the French countryside, dotted with the farms that supply the markets in the north of the country. Before you reach the spa town of Forges-Les-Eaux, we recommend you to stop in Neuchâtel to taste the famous local cheese.5. Forges-les-Eaux–Gisors (65 km, elevation up 420 m). We are in the Pays de Bray in Normandy, which boasts a very high quality of local �avours and products: butter, cheese, apples, pears, honey, legumes and �rst class meat. This is why the French use a play on words and say: “Welcome to Gourmand-ie”! Then you will follow the valley of the river Epte to reach Gisors and its castle,

France-Great Britain

| | | | 340/320 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Paris–London & London–ParisLadies and Gentlemen: the Avenue Verte!

GB

F

BE

NL

ParisCergy

Gisors

Forges-les-Eaux

ThéméricourtSaint-Denis

Nanterre

Dieppe

VernonVillarceaux

Gournay-en-Bray

Seine

Thames

ENGLISH CHANNEL

NewhavenPolegate

London

East GrinsteadCrawley

Coulsdon

Brighton

Paris–London London–Paris


which marks the ancient Franco-Norman border. 6. Gisors–Cergy (65 km, elevation up 320 m). You follow the river Epte to Bray-et-Lû where you enter the Vexin Français region and the natural park of the same name, a chalky plain that includes many communes in the Oise valley. In Théméricourt we recommend a visit to the house at the park entrance, where you can also visit the museum dedicated to the natural park. 7. Cergy–Paris (55 km, elevation up 145 m). You leave behind the Oise river to �nally meet up with the Seine and its park, so dear to the impressionists. This river will guide you to the Canal Saint-Denis and the heart of Paris. If you prefer to spend more time visiting the capital, you can always get a train or the under-ground to reach the centre more quickly. 8. Paris. After breakfast, end of services and... au revoir!

ROUTE PROFILE

Paris–London- Total Length: 340 km- Total vertical up: 1,675 m- Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 3, 6 and 7- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, 6 and 7

London–Paris- Total Length: 300/320 km- Total vertical up: 1,385/1,485 m- Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 6 and 7- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, 6 and 7

The route follows the Avenue Verte along dedicated cycle paths, road shoulder cycle lanes and quiet country roads. The route is on the level when it follows the main rivers, it then becomes slightly more dif�cult in the countryside areas, especially in England (for direction Paris to London). Direction London to Paris is the easier of the two options.

BY PLANE

Both Paris and London are well served by 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 group 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.

ONLY WITH GIROLIBERO

In London you’ll stay in a 4* centrally located Hotel!

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3/4* Hotels (in London: 4* centrally located hotel!)679 € DBL+ 370 € SGL

GUIDED TOUR2/3/4* Hotels (in London: 4* centrally located hotel!)985 € DBL+ 370 € SGL


EXTRA NIGHTSIn Paris/in London: on request


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome brie�ng in English, luggage transportation, route description and maps, ferry cruise Dieppe-Newhaven (or Newhaven-Dieppe), 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 PRICEAll the train transfers.

DEPARTURESSelf guided tour From Paris: 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, 9.08, 23.08, 6.09, 20.09.2014.From London: 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, 13.09.2014.

Guided tourFrom Paris: 12.07, 26.07, 9.08.2014From London: 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08.2014.

France-Great Britain

A Tale of Two Cities Two of Europe’s most alluring capitals await your discovery.

Brand new cycle route Inaugurated for the 2012 Olympics, a cyclist’s dream. Normandy Enjoy the finest

cuisine of the region also known as “Gourmandie”.

PRICE PER PERSONParis-London Self guided tour code F01 - Guided tour code F01G London-Paris Self guided tour code F02 - Guided tour code F02G

6565

Racing bike tours in some of the most beautiful regions in Italy, where in addition to views and legendary ascents you can also enjoy unforgettable food and wine and visit innumerable cities of art along the way.

ROADBIKE

ITALY

Bolzano–Venice . . . . . p. 66 | 540 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Dolomites and Stelvio Pass . . . . . . . . . . . p. 67


Veneto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 68 | 620 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 69 | 390 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights


Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 70 | 510 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


Tuscany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 71 | 735 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights


6Tours in this brochuremore on the website!


DAY BY DAY 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.

* Ferri says: The colour of the rock and the scents in the air make this a mystical place. The last part includes a lot of downhill route, so don’t be put off by the kilometres.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 Passo Falzarego. The � nal ascent leads you to Majesty the Giau.Variant (70 km) without Passo Falzarego

* Ferri says: Passo Giau, is the unques-tioned queen of the Dolomites. You really need 34–29… trust me!4. Cortina–Belluno (100 km, + 2,500 m, 5.30 h). Up again to Passo Giau: from here, an extremely fast downhill ride towards Selva di Cadore, then up to Forcella Staulanza pass and Passo Duran. Today’s stage � nishes in Belluno with a 40 km downhill run.Variant (80 km) without Staulanza pass.

* Ferri says: A stage included in the

2012 Giro d’Italia, here ridden in the opposite direction… which does not make it any easier, in fact this slope of Passo Duran will have your lungs and legs screaming!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 Valdobbia-dene, surrounded by the famous

Prosecco vineyards.

* Ferri says: Today’s stretch takes you up to Passo San Boldo and Pianezze, two historic ascents for the professionals who train in these hills. I recommend a 34–25 gear ratio for the Pianezze pass!Recharging your batteries with a good glass of wine is a must.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.

* Ferri says: We have over 33 different asphalted ascents to choose: the gradi-ents often reach 10–12%, and even 18% at times.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.

* Ferri says: Enjoy your day in Venice, a city that is one of its kind in the world! But if you really must pedal, there are always the Asolo and Castelfranco hills and back.8. Mestre. After breakfast, end of ser-vices.

PARKING


BY PLANE


Lagodi Garda

Adig

e

Adige

BOLZANO/BOZEN

MestreVenezia

Chioggia

Brenta

Sile

Piav

e

Belluno

Valdobbiadene

BrunicoDobbiaco

Cortina D’Ampezzo

Trento

Passo Giau

MARE ADRIATICO

Treviso

CorvaraP. PordoiP. Campolongo

P. Gardena


Bolzano–VeniceFrom legendary Dolomites to Adriatic Sea

Italy

700 m

0 m

1400 m

2100 m

Bolza

no

Corv

ara

Sella

rond

aPa

ss

Brun

ico

Corti

na

Bellu

no

Vald

obbi

aden

eTr

eviso

Mes

tre

Vene

zia

SEASONSStandard season: from May 4th to June 28th 2014 and from September 8th to September 28th 2014. High Season: from June 29th to July 20th 2014 and from August 24th to September 7th 2014.


BICYCLE RENT195 € High-end road bike15 € Helmet

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bozen65 €/85 € DBL/SGLIn Mestre65 €/85 € DBL/SGLIn VeniceFrom 90 € DBLFrom 150 € SGL Night in Venice instead of Mestre (luggage delivered to the Hotel)From 90/150 € DBL/SGL

TRANSFERSTo be con� rmed when booking the tour Mestre/Venice–Bolzano 60 € per person (bike included). Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accommoda-tion, breakfast buffet, lug-gage transportation, private transfer Bolzano-Corvara/Brunico, GPS tracks for the stages, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDEDIN THE PRICELocal hotel taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

DEPARTURESEvery Sunday from May 4th to July 20th 2014 and from August 24th to September 28th 2014. Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!

PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I14R

Sella Ronda and its 4 Passes: a 60 km climb that has written the history of cycling.

Venice Forget your bike and directions: Venice is made for walking and losing yourself ! The Prosecco route

Pedal through the vineyards to the gates of Treviso.


DAY BY DAY 1. Arrival in Bolzano.2. Bolzano–Badia Valley (87 km, + 2,790 m, 5 h). You leave Bolzano and reach the Gardena Valley and the village of Ortisei, a renowned wood carving centre. You then start your climb to the passes of Selva, Pordoi and Campolongo. Then the fast downhill into the Badia Valley.

* Ferri says: The � reworks start with a bang and in the space of a few hours you’re pedalling in the Sellaronda amphi-theatre: colours, scents, a sense of elation and freedom.3. In Badia Valley (82 km, + 2,460 m, 6 h). From the idyllic Badia Valley to the easy Campolongo Pass, before tackling “His Majesty” the Giau Pass.

* Ferri says: Pace yourself as best as you can for the � rst part of the Giau Pass: it’s tough with some stretches at 12%, and the last 3 km will be long and hard. But once you reach the peak, you’re rewarded with one of the � nest views anywhere on the planet.4. Badia Valley–Merano (98 km, + 1,360 m, 5 h). You climb to the Valgar-dena Pass to complete your loop of the Sellaronda. The road carries on up towards the Alpe di Siusi and then dips down into Bolzano and Merano.

* Ferri says: A relatively less challeng-ing day to catch your breath. Just two climbs, both enjoyable, with half the

elevation faced yesterday.5. Merano–Bormio (97 km , + 2,937 m, 6 h). Our cycle path out of Merano rises gently to Prato dello Stelvio and is merely the overture of what lies ahead: the legendary 48 bends that punctuate the 25.4 km and 1,840 m of elevation de-manded by the Stelvio Pass. Long and chilly descent into Bormio.

* Ferri says: Take it easy out of Merano so as to arrive at Prato dello Stelvio in good shape. Stop to refuel and for a bite before the Big One.

6. Bormio–Gavia Pass–Bormio (80 km, + 1,930 m, 4 h). The day is dedicated to the ascent of the historic and fabulous Gavia, where over the years countless champions have challenged one another in the Giro d’Italia. Your day has come!

* Ferri says: “We’ve got the Gavia today,” you keep telling yourself on the day, doing the Giro d’Italia: it’s a wonder-ful, long long climb, though not impos-sibly strenuous. 7. Bormio–Mortirolo–Bormio (80 km, + 1,800 m, 5 h). Ready to ascend the Mortirolo Pass? – A 12-km monumental challenge and 1,300 m of elevation. This is the historic climb that connects Valtel-lina with the Camonica Valley.

* Ferri says: The � rst few km are scary: 42 mins is the record time set by Ivan Gotti in 1999, when he won the Giro d’Italia. What will yours be?8. Bormio. Departure after breakfast.

PARKING


BY PLANE


CH

A

I

Bolzano

Merano

Val Badia

P. Campolongo

Passo GiauBormio

P. Gavia

P. Mortirolo

P. SellaP. Pordoi

P. FalzaregoP. Gardena

Adige

Adige

Adda


Dolomites and Stelvio PassPasses and Peaks of the Alps

900 m

200 m

1600 mBo

lzano

P. S

ella

P. P

ordo

i

P. G

iau

P. F

alza

rego

Cam

polo

ngo

P. G

arde

na

Bolza

no

Mer

ano

Borm

io

P. G

avia

P. M

ortir

olo

Borm

io

2300 m

Italy

SEASONSStandard season: from June 1st to June 30th 2014 and from September 1st to September 29th 2014.High Season: from July 1st to August 30th 2014.



EXTRA NIGHTSIn Bolzano65 € DBL85 € SGL

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, 7 dinners (beverages not included), luggage transpor-tation, GPS-Tracks, wellness area and laundry service in Bormio, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal hotel taxes (approx. 10-15 €).

DEPARTURESEvery Sunday from June 1st to September 29th 2014.Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!


Legendary Passes of the Dolomites Pordoi, Sella, Gardena, Campolongo, Giau, Fedaia: exhausting but exhilarating.

Stelvio Area the celebrated Gavia and Mortirolo Passes – plus, legendary and commandingly beautiful: “His Majesty” Stelvio.

Bolzano Italy’s northern outpost town immersed in the Dolomites.


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Vicenza, a city of art and industry, it is where dozens of world-famous 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 Vals-ugana cycle path takes you to Bassano.

* Ferri says: The worst part is the ascent up to Asiago. I have cycled it hundreds of times with Pozzato, Rebellin, Ballan… you are highly likely to meet them on these roads.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 � at stretch of 3.5 km. Long descent down to Valdob-biadene in the province of Treviso, through the Prosecco wine hills.Variant (80 km). Without the Grappa ascent.

* Ferri says: A wonderful route if the weather is good. In bad weather, come down from Monte Grappa via Campo-solagna–Campo Croce–Crespano. 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.

* Ferri says: Today the scenery is still breathtaking here, through vineyards and woods, along roads where many Treviso based professional cyclists train.5. Treviso–Venice–Chioggia (80 km).A � at 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 stops in Venice, Lido island, Pellestrina and Chioggia.

* Ferri says: An easy stage, on the � at, dominated by the scent of the sea. 6. Chioggia–Abano Terme (100 km, + 1,000 m, 4 h). The stage starts with 40 km of � at cycling along the rivers to Monselice. From here you come to the Euganei Hills regional park, where you � nd continual ascents and descents and delightful little towns such as Arquà Petrarca. This stage ends in Abano Terme, a renowned spa resort.

* Ferri says: Be careful of the wind during the � rst part and pace your pedalling, as the last part is winding with some of the ascents arduous and up to 3–4 km long.

7. Abano Terme–Vicenza (100 km, + 1,300 m, 4 h). Cycle to Ponte di Bar-barano, 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.

* Ferri says: Not much traf� c and a route through green countryside, short yet challenging ascents before the � nal descent… arms up towards the sky and dream of winning!8. Vicenza. Departure.

BY PLANE

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

PeschieraVerona

Lago diGarda

Adige

Adi

ge

Laguna

Mestre

VICENZA

Treviso

Chioggia

Abano Terme

Conegliano

COLLI BERICI

Arquà Petrarca

Teolo

Asiago

Marostica

Padova

Bassano del Grappa

Brenta

Brenta

Venezia

MAR ADRIATICO


VenetoCycling in the road bike land

500 m

0 m

1000 m

1500 m

Vice

nza

Asia

go

Mon

te G

rapp

a

Mon

tello

Trev

iso

Lido

di V

enez

ia

Colli

Beric

i

Colli

Euga

nei

Aban

o Te

rme

Vice

nza

SEASONSValue season: from March 29th to April 30th 2014 and from September 27th to October 25th 2014.Middle season: from May 1st to June 25th 2014 and from August 30th to Septem-ber 26th 2014.High season: from June 26th to August 29th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOUR3/4* Hotels655 € DBL+ 198 € SGL+ 35 € Middle season+ 55 € High season


HALF BOARD170 € 6 dinners included (3-course meals), beverages not included.

EXTRA NIGHTSIn Vicenza/TrevisoFrom 55 €/85 € DBL/SGLIn Mestre65 €/85 € DBL/SGLIn VeniceFrom 90/150 € DBL/SGL

Night in Venice instead of Mestre (luggage delivered to the Hotel)From 90/150 € DBL/SGL

REDUCTIONS3rd/4th person in room:130 €

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages, 7-days Hotline service, 12-hours- ticket for Venice public transport (bike not included, approx. 4 €).


DEPARTURESEvery Saturday and Sunday from March 29th to October 25th 2014. Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!


Mount Grappa Also featured in this year’s Giro d’Italia, with that historic 27 km climb to 1800 m. Prosecco Paradise

By bike through the vineyards of the celebrated sparkling wine.Palladio’s architecture The Renaissance master’s fi nest

designs, in and around Vicenza.


DAY BY DAY 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.

* Ferri says: This stage in the hills surrounded by the scents of the country-side is easy and pleasant, on secondary roads with very little difference in altitude. Take it easy, today is just a warm-up stage!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.

* Ferri says: There’s a � ne ascent that takes you from Desenzano to Polpenazze del Garda: you can put your all into it because it’s followed by a long easy descent into Salò.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.

* Ferri says: A very pleasant route along the lakeside with lovely scenery and the climb up to Castion Veronese is really easy: enjoy the view!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.

* Ferri says: A very uphill–downhill route with � ve medium dif� cult ascents

of about 3–4 km each. An excellent route for the scenery and to work your legs. A stop to relax your muscles at the Colà spa is a must.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 beauti-ful town on the lake and then the same route back to Peschiera.If you don’t want to tackle such a dif-� cult climb you can go to Caprino Ve-ronese and pedal up from Ferrara di Monte Baldo: here the view over Lake Garda is magni� cent.Another even easier alternative: cycle to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet and then enjoy a day’s retail therapy and culture.

* Ferri says: The Cima Veleno ascent is pretty awesome, only for the really

expert (and lovers of very hard work). You’ll need a 34–29 gear ratio… other-wise you’ll have to get off and walk! The ascent up to Ferrara di Monte Baldo is also lovely, offering a panorama very reminiscent of the Swiss mountains, with cows and large expanses of green meadows.7. Peschiera del Garda. After breakfast, end of services.

BY PLANE


Lago di Garda

Lago di Iseo

Adig

e

Adige

Min

cio

PESCHIERA DEL GARDA

Desenzano

Solferino

Verona

Sirmione

Salò

NegrarBardolino

Garda

Cima Veleno

Torri del Benaco

| | | 390 km | 7 Tage/6 Nächte

Lake GardaPeschiera roundtour

400 m

0 m

800 m

1200 m

Pesc

hier

a

Salò

Dese

nzan

oSi

rmio

ne

Bard

olin

oTo

rri d

el B

enac

o

Cim

a Ve

leno

Negr

ar

Vero

na

Solfe

rino

Italy

SEASONSStandard season: from April 12th to May 24th 2014 and from September 13th to September 27th 2014.High season: from May 25th to September 12th 2014.

SELF GUIDED TOUR3* Hotel (Hotel Puccini or equivalent if not available)510 € DBL+ 198 € SGL+ 80 € High season


EXTRA NIGHTS In Peschiera55 € DBL85 € SGLIn Verona65 € DBL85 € SGL

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE6 nights hotel accommoda-tion, buffet breakfast, GPS tracks for the stages, 7-day service hotline.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 8 €). DEPARTURESEvery day from April 12th to September 27th 2014.


Cima Veleno (“Poison Peak”) – backbreaking but views to die for: Lake Garda, olive groves and the blue yonder above. Lake Garda Among the most elegant holiday destinations

in northern Italy. Temperate climate Naturally beautiful, ideal for cycling and celebrated for its wines.


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Individual arrival in Alessandria, a city divided by the Tanaro River. Piazza della Libertà and Piazza Duomo, with its magni� cent 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 birth-place. 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.

* Ferri says: A visit to Fausto Coppi’s house and birthplace is very moving and, once back on the saddle, you will feel you are pedalling at his side.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.

* Ferri says: A demanding route with continuous medium-length ascents, 5–7 km. Save some of your energy for the last dif� culty of the day, the Gino Bartali ascent… if you have dared too much and get here tired, you too will be forced to say: “l’è tutto sbagliato, è tutto da rifare” (it’s all wrong, do it again), Bartali’s historic motto.

4. Alba–Asti (90 km, + 1,400 m, 4,30 h). Quiet roads through vineyards and hazelnut groves in the heart of Monfer-rato. Today we cross the Tanaro natural park and the Sarmassa natural reserve. The stage ends in Asti with its monu-ments and splendid Gothic cathedral.

* Ferri says: Like yesterday, the route winds through hills marked by the hard work of man: they truly spent all their energy in these vineyards and across the slopes of hazelnut trees. You have to do the same, using your legs, heart and willpower.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.

* Ferri says: The ascent up Superga is a great classic, included every year in the Giro del Piemonte.6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (90 km, + 1,500 m, 4.30 h). You pedal north-wards up to Monferrato, along a winding route with continual variations in steep-ness and steep climbs that at times are very similar to the Mur de huy ascent in the classic Flèche Wallonne.

* Ferri says: Take care on the steep climbs, a 34–25 gear ratio may often be useful. Stop every now and again to enjoy the view and the silence.7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria (50 km, + 500 m, 3 h). Our tour contin-ues 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.

* Ferri says: A short � nal stage so that you can once again enjoy the peace and the marvellous scenery. Stop to lunch in one of the many wineries on the way and pop a good Italian spumante to toast yourselves and your holiday.8. Alessandria. After breakfast, end of services.

PARKING

In Alessandria: private garage at a cost of approx 12 € per day close to the hotel (no reservation possible, to be paid on-site).

BY PLANE

Alessandria is well connected (60–180 min.) with the following airports: Torino (TRN), Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) and Milano Malpensa (MXP).

Po

Po

Tanaro

Bormida

Ticino

ALESSANDRIA

Casale Monferrato

Alba

Acqui Terme

Castellania

Torino

Asti


PiedmontThe ascents of Fausto Coppi

400 m

100 m

700 m

Ales

sand

ria

Cast

ella

ni

Acqu

i

Alba As

ti

Revig

liasc

o

Casa

le M

onfe

rrato

SELF GUIDED TOUR3/4* Hotels655 € DBL+ 175 € SGL


EXTRA NIGHTSIn Alessandria55 € DBL75 € SGL

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDEDIN THE PRICELocal taxes (approx 10 €).

Train transfer to Torino (ap-prox. 45 min., 7 € per person + bike).



Fausto Coppi Castellania ist das Heimatdorf des großen Radprofi s, der hier inmitten von Weinbergen und Hügeln trainierte. Die Trüffel des Piemont

gehören zu den wertvollsten in der Welt und werden in vielen Gerichten der regionalen Küche benutzt. Langhe Eine für ihre Weine bekannte Region, wo

exzellente Weine wie der Barolo, der Barbera und der Dolcetto angebaut werden.


DAY BY DAY 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 Massaciuc-coli, ending this stage in wonderful Lucca.

* Ferri says: The view from the top is amazing and while pedalling up the Buti side you come across a whole load of cyclists with one eye on their stopwatch. Enjoy this legendary ascent and chal-lenge the great names, remembering however that today is only your � rst day. Make frequent use of gear ratio 34–26.3. 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.

* Ferri says: The stage that goes up to the Apuan Alps is wonderful, with fabu-lous scenery as you rise; take care in the

tunnels and in the rain, as the road becomes very slippery. The valley that takes you from Castelnuovo Garfagnana to Lucca is quick, but a bit busy towards the end. The short route, on the other hand, is very pleasant if you love the sea and... the good life!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 dedi-cated to this genius.Afterwards you tackle the Vittolini ascent that takes you to Florence.

* Ferri says: This is a very pleasant route, the ascents are pretty easy and it’s worth forgetting times and enjoying a slice of history (must visit is Vinci and the home of Leonardo). This evening, Floren-tine steak for dinner with a glass of good Chianti: tomorrow you’ll need your legs!

5. Florence–Siena along the Eroica (90 km, + 1,700 m, 5 h). Today you’ll cycle on the “Eroica” roads that are at times not asphalted, through wonderful hilly countryside. Ascents are tough, due both to their gradient and the dif� culty of cycling on unmade roads. Arrival is in Piazza del Campo in Siena.Variant (70 km). Without the Eroica road.

* Ferri says: On unmade roads you need excellent cycling skills and above all spare tyres – punctures are par for the course here! Careful with descents on non-asphalt stretches too. Despite its dif� culties, the Eroica roads are the ones I recommend: the silence, the absence of traf� c, the feeling you get of pedalling in 1930 are emotions not to be missed.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 pano-rama and once at the top your reward is a glass of good wine, bread and salami. 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).

* Ferri says: My favourite stage: here we combine (pleasant) effort with unique views, great wines and local culinary specialities. Stopping to eat in Montalcino or Pienza is almost obligatory! 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 fourteen medieval towers. The stage continues along secondary roads, bringing you to back to Pisa, where the round trip and your holiday � nally come to an end.

* Ferri says: A demanding route, uphill to the 60 km mark, then much easier until Pisa. This is the last stage, very beautiful and peaceful, excellent for mak-ing memories of Tuscany.8. Pisa. After breakfast, end of services.

PARKING

In Pisa: free parking place at the � rst hotel, for the whole duration of the tour.

BY PLANE

You can � y to Pisa airport (PSA) with various low cost companies.

Arno

Lago Trasimeno

MARTIRRENO

PISA

Siena

Firenze

Alpi Apuane

Lucca

Vinci

Volterra

MontalcinoMontepulciano


TuscanyThe heroes’ hills

400 m

0 m

1200 m

800 mPi

sa

Lucc

a

Alpi

Apu

ane

Vinc

i

Fire

nze

Sien

a

Mon

talc

ino

Mon

tepu

lcia

no

Volte

rra Pisa

Italy

SELF GUIDED TOUR2/3* Hotels, b&b, agriturismo718 € DBL+ 195 € SGL


EXTRA NIGHTSIn Pisa60 € DBL90 € SGL

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages, 7-days Hotline service.


DEPARTURESEvery Saturday from April 19th to September 27th 2014. Special departure dates for at least 6 persons!


Eroica race route, the classic unmade road that leads to Siena. Wine The Chianti hillsides

produce some of Italy’s noblest wines. Siena Home of the historical, fast and furious Palio race

in Piazza del Campo.


1. INTRODUCTION: NOTION OF TOURIST PACKAGE Considering that: a) the operator and vendor of tourist packages, to whom the consumer makes a request, must be in possession of the administrative authorisation in order to carry out their activity. b) the consumer has the right to receive a copy of the tourist package sale contract (under article 85 of the Consumer’s Code) an essential docu-ment to get access to the National Guarantee Fund.The definition of tourist package (article 84 Consumer’s Code) is as follows: tourist packages have as their subject matter travel, holidays and “all inclu-sive” 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 inclu-sive price and cover a period of more than twenty-four hours or include at least one overnight accommodation: (a) transport; (b) accommodation; (c) other tourist services not ancillary to transport or accommodation (redact-ed)... and accounting for a significant proportion of the “tourist package”.2. LEGISLATIVE SOURCESThe purchase of a tourist package, either with services offered on national territory or abroad will be governed by the Italian Law 27/12/1977 n°1084 in ratification and implementation of the International Convention on Travel Con-tracts (CCV) regarding travel contracts signed in Brussels on 23.04.1970 and also by Consumer’s Code.3. OBLIGATORY INFORMATION: TECHNICAL BRIEFThe operator is obliged to provide either within the catalogue or separately to it a technical brief. The details that must be included in the technical brief within the catalogue 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 catalogue or programmes separate to the catalogue or tailor made to measure travel;- methods and conditions for transferral

(Art.89 of Consumer’s Code);- exchange rate used in the case of currency adjustments, days or value.4. BOOKINGSReservation 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-ic means, to the client. Indications regarding the package that are not con-tained 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, 87 comma 2 of the Consumer’s Code.5. PAYMENTA 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 preced-ing the intended departure date. In case of reservation after the above men-tioned 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. PRICEThe price of the tourist package is determined in the contract, and refers to the price indicated in the catalogue 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 pack-age 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 catalogue technical brief or on the date printed in the above mentioned adjustments.7. ALTERATIONS OR CANCELLATION OF A TOURIST PACKAGE BEFORE DEPARTUREBefore the departure the operator or vendor who is forced to make signifi-cant alterations to one or more ele-ments of the contract must give imme-diate notification in writing to the con-sumer indicating the type of alteration and the consequent variation in price. If the alteration proposal is not accept-ed, the consumer 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 8. The consumer maintains the above rights also when cancellation is due to an insufficient number of partici-pants required as stated in the Cata-logue 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 acci-dental cause or by insufficient number of participants, or reasons which are different from those of the non accept-ance by the consumer of the alternative tourist package offered, the operator who cancels (art. 33 letter e Consum-er’s Code) will reimburse the consumer 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 con-sumer would owe on that same date according to art. 8, comma 4 in the case the cancellation was done by the consumer himself.8. WITHDRAWAL BY CONSUMERThe consumer may withdraw from the contract, without penalty only in the fol-lowing 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 con-tract but before departure and not

accepted by the consumer.In the above cases the consumer 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 reimburse-ment request. The consumer must communicate his decision (of acceptance of the altera-tion or of withdrawal) within and not after two working days from the moment he receives notice of the increase or alteration. If no communica-tion is made within these limits, the pro-posal formulated by the operator is to be considered as accepted. The con-sumer who withdraws from the contract before departure for reasons other than those listed in comma 1 above will be charged - independently from the pay-ment of a deposit as in art.5 - with the individual cost of the organisation and the penalty in the amount indicated in art.9 “Cancellation Fees”. 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 con-tract.9. CANCELLATION FEESIf the customer withdraws from the contract he is anyway obliged to pay the registration fee which is Euro 30 per person in 2014. The calculation of the days does not include the day of with-drawal. 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 b) with-drawal 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

GENERAL CONDITIONS


preceding the departure date: 95% of the total amount 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) with-drawal 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 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 can-cellation during the the program stay.10. ALTERATION OF THE BOOKINGIf the customer asks for any kind of alteration of the already booked tourist package, he is obliged to pay the reg-istration fee which is Euro 30 per per-son. A reduction in participants will be considered a cancellation and there-fore subject to the cancellation fees as mentioned above. The operator is not obliged to fulfil any customer's altera-tion request of an already booked tour-ist package if he is not able to meet the customer's requirements. 11. ALTERATIONS AFTER DEPARTUREAfter 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 consumer, an essential part of the ser-vices included in the contract, he must offer alternative solutions, without additional cost to the price paid by the consumer and, if the services offered are of a lower value than those fore-seen, the customer must be reim-bursed exactly for the difference.In the case that no alternative solution is possible, or rather the solution of the operator is refused by the consumer for justifiable serious reasons, the operator will at no extra cost, provide the consumer with equivalent transport back to the place of departure or to another pre-agreed place depending on availability of the means and plac-es. In this case the operator will com-pensate the consumer for the differ-ence between the services to be sup-plied under the contract and those supplied to the moment of the early return.12. TRANSFER OF BOOKINGSThe consumer 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 com-munication regarding all the details of the transferee; b) the transferee satisfies all the condi-tions to benefit from the service (ex. Article 89 Consumer’s Code) and in particular with requisites regarding passports, visas and medical certifi-cates;

c) the transferee must reimburse the operator any extra costs that he may incur in order to proceedwith the transferral. The amount will be quantified prior to the transferral. The transferor and the transferee shall be jointly and severally liable for the pay-ment of the price of the package and also to the amounts in point c) of the present article. 13. OBBLIGATIONS FOR THE PARTICIPANTSThe participants must be in posses-sion 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 cer-tification 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. Travellers must pro-vide 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 traveller is liable towards the operator for any compro-mise to the right of subrogation. The consumer must also inform the opera-tor in writing, at the moment of book-ing, of any special personal requests that may be the subject of specific agreements on details of the holiday, as long as the implementation of these requests is possible.14. HOTEL CLASSIFICATIONThe official category of hotels is described in the catalogue or with alternative informative material only on the basis of explicit and formal indica-tions by the competent authorities in the country where the service is pro-vided. In the absence of official recog-nised classification of the competent Public Authorities of the countries, even if members of the EU, the opera-tor reserves the right to their own description in the catalogue or bro-chure of the structure in order to per-mit an evaluation and subsequent acceptance of it by the consumer.15. REGIME OF RESPONSIBILITYThe operator is responsible for dam-age caused to the consumer by the total or partial breach of contractual services owed, whether they are offered by him or by third party suppli-ers of services, unless proof can be given that the event derived from the consumer (also including initiatives carried out independently by the con-sumer) or by external circumstances in supplying contractual services, acci-dental cause, force majeure, or from circumstances that the operator could not, professionally or realistically fore-see 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 jour-ney, 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.16. LIMITS FOR COMPENSATIONCompensation for damages to a per-son cannot in any event be superior to the limits regulated by international conventions to which Italy and the European Union take part regarding the breach of services. In any case the compensation limit cannot exceed 50.000 Germinal Gold Francs for dam-age to people, 2.000 Germinal Gold Francs for damage to things, 5.000 Germinal Gold Francs for any other damage (article 13 n°2 CCV)17. OBLIGATION FOR ASSISTANCEThe operator must give assistance to the consumer with professional dili-gence 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 consumer or due to an unforeseeable or inevitable action by a third party, or rather fortui-tous or by force majeure.18. COMPLAINTS AND REPORTSAny failure in the enforcement of the contract must be contested by the consumer without delay during the tour so that the operator, his local rep-resentative or assistant can rectify the situation as quickly as possible.The consumer 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.19. INSURANCE AGAINST CANCELLATION EXPENSES AND REPATRIATIONIt is advisable for the consumer to draw up an insurance policy against expenses deriving from the cancella-tion 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 prices offered by the operator.20. NATIONAL GUARANTEE FUNDThe Presidency of the Council of Min-isters has constituted a National Guar-antee Fund to which consumers may apply (under the terms of Art. 100 of the Consumers’ Code) in the case of insolvency or bankruptcy of vendors or operators, for the protection of the fol-lowing 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 ascriba-ble 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.

21. ADDENDUM GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR CONTRACTS - SALE OF SINGLE TOURIST SERVICESA) 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 Con-tracts 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 spe-cific stipulations referring to the sale of single services in the contract.B) CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT The following clauses of the general contractual conditions can be applied to these above mentioned contracts: art. 4 comma 1; art. 5; art. 7; arts.8 and 9; art 10 comma 1; art. 11; art. 15 and art. 17. The application of these clauses does not render these con-tracts 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 corre-sponding figures of the purchasing contract for the single tourist services (vendor, accommodation etc.).22. 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.23. 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 con-clude the contract and for the imple-mentation of the services that consti-tute the tourist package. Personal data will not be diffused, but given solely to the suppliers of the services included in the tourist package purchased. The consumer may at any time exer-cise his/her rights under art. 7 of the Legislative Decree 196/03 by contacting GIROLIBERO operated by Bike Incoming Srl informally, by telephone, or at [email protected]. TECHNICAL DATA Technical organisation: BIKE INCOMING srlViale Margherita 9536100 VicenzaFiscal Code 03794470249Aut. Amm. of the province of Vicenza n° 22507 of 26/03/2013 Insurance guarantee: Unipol Assicurazioni Spa N. 40173402 RC. All prices are in Euro.The printing ends in November 2013, changes might appear beyond our control. We apologize for any printing errors or omissions.

74 girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com74 girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com

1 CHOOSE YOUR TOUR on the website www.girolibero.com or on this brochure.

2 CONTACT US to check the availability(with all details) and to receive anexact quotation.

3 RECEIVE AN OPTION If it is possible to book the desired tour, you will receive a non-binding option for few days.

4 SEND US YOUR BOOKINGWithin this time send us the booking form (page 75) 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.

5 WE WILL SEND YOU THE BOOKING CONFIRMATION after receiving the deposit.

6 SEND US THE BALANCE30 days before the departure. (Please note the date in your agenda – Girolibero will NOT remind you to do it).

7 RECEIVE THE TRAVEL DOCUMENTSAfter 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.

CONTACT US:Telephone: +39 0444 330724Fax: +39 0444 [email protected]

BANK ACCOUNT:Bike Incoming srlBanca Popolare Friuladria-Crédit AgricoleC/C: 40277489ABI: 05336CAB: 60165CIN: bIBAN: IT54B0533660165000040277489BIC: BPPNIT2P189Reference: Name of the travel applicant + tour code

HOW TO BOOK

1

6

7

54

Iban: ...................Bic: .....................Banca: ................Causale: .............

SAVING TIPS

2014*

Early booking discount:

before 31.1.14

Group discount:

from 6 people

Bike & Hotel tours**

- 3% - 5%

Bike & Boat low–middle season***

- 8% - 5%

Bike & Boat high season***

- 3% - 5%

* Valid only on basic tour price and only for tours of min. 6 nights** Discounts are cumulative *** Discounts are not cumulative

32



!

I book the following tour for myself and the the participants mentioned below:

Tour ..........................................................................................................

Departure ..................................................................................... � self-guided tour � guided tour

N° of rooms: � Single room � Double room � Twin room � Double room with third bed

Hotel category ........................................................................... Treatment ....................................................................................................

Extra nights in ............................................. from ..................................... to ................................................................................

in ............................................ from ...................................... to ................................................................................

Bike & Boat Tours specify type and number of cabin(s) .....................................................................................................................................

I accept the general conditions for myself and the above mentioned participants.

Place ................................................ Date ............................................... Signature ..............................................................................

PaymentI pay through � Bank transfer � Credit card

Travel applicantName .................................................................................................... Surname .............................................................................................

Date of birth ......................................................................................... Place of birth ......................................................................................

Full address ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................

Mobile .................................................................... Telephone ................................................... E-Mail .......................................................

BOOKING FORM

How did you know Girolibero?

� Friends’ suggestion � Exhibition � Internet � Press

Which one? .................................. Where? .................................. Where? .......................................

Viale Margherita 95, 36100 Vicenza, ItalyTelephone: 0039 0444 330724Fax: 0039 0444 [email protected] - www.girolibero.com

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* 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.

Bikes

Own

Unisex bike Male bike

Height7

gears*27

gears**E-bike***

7 gears*

27 gears**

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Participants

Name, Surname Date of birth

Notes

........................................................................................

........................................................................................

Bologna

Firenze

FERRARAVenezia

Milano

COMUNE DICOMACCHIO

PROVINCIADI FERRARAUnited Nations

Educational, Scientific andCultural Organization

Ferrara, City ofthe Renaissanceand its Po Delta

Awakenyour

senses

feel it

taste it

live it

breathe it

see it

FERRARA

parcodeldelta.com ferrarabike.com

feel free

noem

astudio.it

Girolibero.indd 1 30.10.13 12:49

Self-guided and guided tours in Italy and France€¦ · self guided / in a group / tailormade,...

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Transcript of Self-guided and guided tours in Italy and France€¦ · self guided / in a group / tailormade,...