2020 – 2021 3 36 54 74 92 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 152 153 102 106 120 136 142 144 150

CONTENTS Essential Information Us Contact To How France France Italy Spain Portugal Gozo Central & Northern Europe HAUL & LONG GUIDED GROUPS Guided Groups Long Haul SNOW Snow Introduction Listings INFORMATION InformationKey Booking INTRODUCTION The Headwater Story What’s New Walking Short Breaks StoryCustomer the Region Taste Favourites Headwater Trip Your Customise Key Information WALKING SELF-GUIDED & Ireland United Kingdom

SPECIALISTS IN SELF-GUIDED HOLIDAYS SINCE 1985 UK & IRELAND | EUROPE | LONG HAUL | SNOW EUROPE | LONG UK & IRELAND | CYCLING

2020– 2021 WELCOME

Welcome to your 2020/2021 Headwater Cycling brochure. Whether you want to pedal past fragrant orchards and cinematic piazzas on your way to Venice, or explore the wine villages of Piedmont by bike, our relaxed holidays are designed to ensure you experience the best regional highlights, historical sights and local culture, while cycling at your own pace.

This year, we’re excited to announce that our brochure will feature 20 new cycling trips, including, exploring the renowned “pearl wine” vineyards on our Taste of Prosecco Cycling (page 61), discovering the idyllic ancient wood oaks of Killarney National Park on our multi-activity Wild Atlantic Way trip (page 28) and following one of the world’s oldest pilgrimage routes by bike on our Camino de Santiago Cycling adventure (page 83).

For added fun and a feeling of ‘togetherness’ why not upgrade to a tandem bike, on a selection of our cycling trips, including the Contrasts of Puglia Cycling, Hilltop Villages of Provence Cycling and many more. E-bikes are also available to make light work of longer rides and challenging uphill sections. Our Ride Plus option allows you to experience more challenging rides.

Our team of dedicated experts have carefully selected each hotel, met the hoteliers, tasted the local cuisine and wines, and tested every interest-packed route. Every hotel is quaint, and usually family-owned, boasting delicious regional cuisine with owners who take a genuine interest in their guests. You could stay anywhere, from historic castles and old manor houses to working farms and converted convents.

With a network of knowledgeable Headwater staff who have over 230 years’ experience with the brand inhouse, alongside our friendly local partners, we have everything covered so you can relax and enjoy your holiday, the way it was meant to be experienced.

Michelle Ventre General Manager CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

The Headwater Story 04 What’s New 06 Cycling 08 Short Breaks 10 Customer Story 12 A Meal with a View 14 Headwater Favourites 16 Customise your Trip 18 Key information 20

SELF-GUIDED CYCLING

United Kingdom & Ireland 22 30

France 2020 – 2021 Italy 50 Spain 74 Portugal 86 Central & Northern Europe 96

GUIDED GROUP & LONG HAUL

Guided Groups 116 Long Haul 118

SNOW

Snow Introduction 120 Listings 122

INFORMATION

Key Booking Information 128 Essential Information 130 How To Contact Us 131

3 THE HEADWATER STORY

n 1985, Richard and Christine Bass made the life-changing decision to turn a passion into a business and thus Headwater was born at their Ikitchen table. They wanted to take what they’d learned from their own travels across the globe, the incredible experiences they’d had, and pass it on to others. To create holidays that take you to the heart of the moment, to elevate your experience – whether walking, cycling, canoeing or even cross-country skiing – by bringing you closer to the world at your fingertips.

Relaxing holidays give you time to stop and enjoy the moment, away from the stress and hassle of everyday life – that’s what we’re all about. With nearly 35 years’ experience behind us, we’ve dedicated ourselves to seeking out idyllic routes and hidden gems – so that you can simply enjoy the moments that truly matter, with the people you love.

Headwater has come a long way since that moment in 1985. Now we have a carefully curated selection of nearly 150 self-guided and guided holidays that will unlock the world’s best kept secrets for you, making it easier than ever before for you to switch off, relax, and live in the moment.

4 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com Why Choose Us?

EXPERTLY CRAFTED ITINERARIES With a Headwater holiday, it’s all in the details. We’ve spent over three decades creating and fine-tuning our itineraries to make sure each one runs like clockwork. Every route is designed with you in mind – that’s why we seek out the most authentic accommodation, highest quality restaurants, best-kept local secrets and meticulously compiled route directions to guarantee you’ll never get lost on your journey... only in the bliss of the experience.

HOTELS THAT DELIVER AN AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE Our hotels offer much more than just a bed for the night. They provide insights into the local culture. Many are historic properties, castles and palaces that have previously hosted monarchs, artists and famous authors. All are individually selected by our team and because we have strong, trusted relationships with our hoteliers, you can expect a personal service and authentic experiences wherever you go.

UNBEATABLE PERSONAL SERVICE From the moment you make your booking to the day you return from your Headwater holiday, you will experience an unmatched personalised service every step of the way. We don’t believe in faceless call centres – you’ll speak to your own dedicated salesperson throughout your Headwater booking process. That’s why it’s so easy to customise your own trip – we put you in control, so you can tailor your Headwater holiday to suit you.

FLAWLESS PLANNING, SEAMLESS EFFICIENCY At Headwater, we believe it’s the little things that make a big difference. We plan ahead so your holiday runs seamlessly. We transport your luggage between each hotel, we provide you with maps and route directions - most with GPS - and should you have any concerns while you’re on holiday, our emergency line is available 24/7. We check every route for accuracy and provide the bikes for you to ride. We even go that extra mile, providing a complimentary wine collection service on selected trips.

5 WHAT’S NEW?

TASTE OF PROSECCO CYCLING

Venture across the renowned ‘Pearl Wine’ vineyards Pedal past charming medieval villages, fairy-tale castles and aristocratic villages in search of Italy’s award-winning bubbles. Visit Asolo’s open air museum, descend towards Bassano Del Grappa to sample delicious Grappa and enjoy three Prosecco tastings with famous local producers. End your adventure with a ride to beautiful Cison Valmarino at the foothills of the Alps.

SEE PAGE 61

6 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com CLASSIC COTSWOLDS CAMINO DE SANTIAGO LAKES AND MOUNTAINS CYCLING CYCLING OF BAVARIA CYCLING

Explore England’s 2nd largest Area Cycle one of the world’s most ancient Visit Germany’s fairy-tale castles of Outstanding Natural Beauty pilgrimage routes and blue lakes Admire the beautiful English A cycle route steeped in history Discover a region steeped in Cotswold’s comprising of 787 square following St James Way, starting traditions, lederhosen and beer miles of scenic rolling hills, patchwork in majestic Leon with its stunning as you cycle through spectacular meadows and a bedrock of Jurassic cathedral and medieval quarter. landscapes of lush green meadows, limestone. On route, cycle through the Continue through the lush Bierzo turquoise lakes and alpine forests. world-famous villages of Bourton- Valley, passing the foothills of Immerse yourself in Upper Bavaria’s on-the-Water, Chipping Campden O´Cebreiro and an ancient Middle Age rich history by visiting its Baroque and the ancient Saxon capital of monastery in Samos, before your final churches, Neuschwanstein Castle Winchcombe for a unique insight into destination, the beautiful Santiago de and ancient Roman milestones this spectacular area. Compostela comes into view. along the Via Claudia Augusta.

SEE PAGE 27 SEE PAGE 83 SEE PAGE 105

CYCLING ALONG THE WALKING AND CYCLING CROSS COUNTRY DANUBE FROM VIENNA THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY SKIING IN LAPLAND TO BUDAPEST Explore Ireland’s oldest National Park Freshly prepared ski tracks from the Embark on an adventure across and the famous Wild Atlantic Way. hotel’s door Central and Eastern Europe Embrace Ireland’s warm hospitality Surrounded by the 7 soft rounded, Following the picturesque River and striking natural beauty, cycling snow-capped fells of the Pallas- Danube, we take in the best sights through the Gap of Dunloe and Yllastunturi National Park, the across three countries. From Vienna, exploring the three Lakes of Killarney picturesque village of Äkäslompolo cycle past walnut trees and woodlands by boat. Enjoy walking along one of offers ample opportunities for cross- towards the gothic Old Town in Ireland’s premier walking routes, country skiing. With an intricate Bratislava, Slovakia. Stop off at iconic taking in Killarney’s National Park, network of signposted trails and 40km castles, grand royal palaces and and the Dingle peninsula and toast of illuminated trails come evening, charming villages, before finishingin your efforts with the “water of life” be prepared for the ultimate winter the beautiful city of Budapest. in Dingle wonderland escape in Lapland.

SEE PAGE 113 SEE PAGE 28 SEE PAGE 124

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 7 CYCLING

What better way to completely immerse yourself in a beautiful region of the world than with a cycling holiday? Catering to every skill level, from beginner to experienced rider, we offer self-guided and guided cycling tours that let you discover awe- inspiring views and incredible historic sites along the way. Whether you choose to ride independently at your own pace or as part of a guided group, taking in the magnificent scenery, we guarantee that our fun, relaxing cycling holidays will create memories that will last a lifetime.

8 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

VOICE NAVIGATION FREEDOM TO CHOOSE WITH RIDE WITH GPS WITH RIDEPLUS Let your worries about route-finding On a selection of our cycling holidays, take a back seat. Ride with GPS we offer RidePlus that allows you to is an easy-to-use audio navigational experience more challenging rides. app, available for the majority of our A typical RidePlus route can be 100km cycling routes. Giving you turn-by- with 1500m of elevation gain, a real turn instructions, you don’t have to challenge! RidePlus is designed to interrupt your ride by checking maps. be experienced using your own gps device.

JOIN THE E-BIKE IT TAKES TWO TO REVOLUTION TANDEM E-bikes are the same as ordinary Riding a tandem allows cyclists with bikes, with the additional benefit of different abilities to stick together so an electric motor when you need you can both enjoy the surroundings it. Tackle hill climbs with ease and rather than one of you constantly make longer cycling days more playing catch up. Tandems are manageable, with the motor taking addictive and great fun, they’re loved care of the momentum. by couples, parents and friends who may otherwise be separated by a stretch of tarmac.

WAYS TO TRAVEL

SELF-GUIDED OR GUIDED HOLIDAYS? Take the lead on our self-guided cycling trips and determine where you want to go and how long you want to linger in a certain area. Or take the benefits of our expert knowledge on a guided cycling tour.

HOTEL TO HOTEL OR CENTRE-BASED HOLIDAYS? Our hotel to hotel cycling holidays allow you to enjoy overnight stays in multiple locations as our local respresentatives transport your bags from one hotel to the next. Or settle in and make yourself at home for the duration of your trip with our centre-based holidays. Look out for our twin centre holidays too!

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 9 SHORT BREAKS

If you’d like to book a cycling holiday but can’t fit in a full week away, a short break holiday – typically four nights – could be exactly what you’re looking for. Experience the best your region has to offer in manageable daily distances; you’ll still receive detailed cycling maps and route notes, with our representatives transporting your bags as you go – just as with our regular holidays. Here’s where to find some of our best-selling short breaks…

10 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 1. CYCLING IN THE REAL ALGARVE ...... PAGE 90 Discover a land that time forgot by cycling along unspoilt, wild coastlines and through picturesque white villages in the Algarve towards the towns of Sagres and Lagos 2. LOIRE GASTRONOMIC CYCLING...... PAGE 34 Enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience and explore the region’s most elegant cuisine and local wines from the beautiful village of St Ouen-les- Vignes to the Château de Chissay 3. CÔTES DU VENTOUX CYCLING ...... PAGE 48 Gentle cycling between the vineyards of the Côtes-du-Rhône and Ventoux appellations, passing by lavender fields and olive groves along the way 4. CONTRASTS OF CATALUNYA CYCLING ...... PAGE 78 Pedal by peach orchards, olive groves, lush pine forests and pretty coastal paths from the traditional fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell to the medieval town of Pals and La Bisbal 5. CYCLING THE GRAND CRU OF BEAUNE ...... PAGE 40 Cycle along quiet country lanes, past ancient oak forests to visit authentic medieval châteaux and sun-drenched wine estates that boast some of the best wine and cuisine in the region 6. LOCH NESS AND THE HIGHLANDS CYCLING.....PAGE 26 Journey through majestic forests, past fjord-like lochs and along peaceful rivers to discover a dazzling array of wildlife and a region steeped in mystical folklore Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 11 YOUR WORDS GETTING CLOSER TO CATALUNYA

Headwater customers Joe and Annette share highlights from their recent Catalunya Activities holiday. Gentle walking and cycling along golden, sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, traditional fishing villages and breath-taking coastal paths.

Describe one of the most interesting cycling routes you What was your best culinary experience on the trip? took during your holiday. Just across the road from the delicious ice-cream One of the most interesting cycling routes was a disused, parlour, L’Enxaneta Gelats d’Altura, in Plaça Sant small-gauge train line that used to run until the 1950s, Pere, Calella de Palafrugell, we dined at a traditional from the mainline through La Bisbal to Palafrugell and tapas restaurant, recommended by our Headwater then onto Palamos, recommended in our Headwater Representative called, Calau, where we were served a cycling notes. Fondly remembered by the older locals, great selection of different regional tapas from Girona we liked this route because it was flat and even, making by their friendly staff. From roasted, lightly salted it a delight in the warm weather as we cycled leisurely Padrón peppers and creamy patatas bravas to Catalan towards the beautiful unspoilt beach at Platja de Castell. style pintxos, Manchego cheese and homemade ham The beach had some hidden little coves that were croquetas, the meal was wonderful and moderately concealed by pine forests, making it a great place to priced, with waiters coming to our seats, asking us to relax after an afternoon of cycling. try more tapas. The restaurant was small and cosy, with the seating very close together, which gave us a great opportunity to strike up conversation with the locals and travellers alike. It was a very jovial and happy atmosphere.

How was your experience at Hotel Garbi?

Our experience at Hotel Garbi was brilliant. It was a beautiful, family-run hotel, overlooking the picturesque fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell. The staff were very friendly, warm and helpful when we were deciding which walking or cycling route we were going to take for that day. Even though we travelled in June, the hotel was so lovely and peaceful, so we never had to wait to be seen or stand in line.

A great place to relax after an afternoon of cycling

12 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com It offered a unique insight into the area, which didn’t disappoint

Why is the Cap Roig Botanical Gardens a must see? Why did you choose this particular holiday?

Boasting nearly 1000 different types of flora, it was After being on a number of Headwater holidays, interesting to see this range of plants growing in a including an excellent trip to the Dolomites, we wanted warmer climate. The Cap Roig Botanical Gardens are a to explore an area we hadn’t visited previously. Also, delight to wander around, offering beautiful panoramic we liked that the Catalunya multi-activity holiday was vistas of the coast. Another tip from Headwater’s holiday based in one resort, coming back to the same friendly, notes, the walk from the hotel was wonderful, dipping family-run hotel every night. We really enjoy reading down through rocky tunnels to the small bay then up to the walking and cycling routes described prior to the the gardens on the headland. We got some great photos holiday, as it offered unique insight into the area, which of the steep rock formations at the bay of el Golfet. In didn’t disappoint when we experienced it for ourselves. the gardens itself, it was nice to admire the early 20th We’ve always enjoyed our other Headwater holidays and century castle-palace of Nikolai Voevodsky, a tsarist would even consider going back to the same region to colonel who we found out moved to the region after the explore more in the future. Russian revolution. On our return, we walked along a lovely inland route across farmland and along the rugged coastal trail via Cala Estreta.

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 13 A MEAL WITH A VIEW

14 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com The hotels we select and culinary experiences we create across our trip itineraries vary enormously, reflecting the differing tastes and styles of their owners. We’ve been researching and sourcing the finest, friendliest and most charming hotels since 1985, looking for small, family-owned hotels that serve authentic regional cuisine and owners who take a genuine interest in their guests.

AUTHENTIC, DELICIOUS, INSPIRING As food-lovers ourselves, we know how important eating well is to our customers, especially after a day of exploring the great outdoors. To ensure you taste the best of what the region has to offer, we select hotels and restaurants whose menus epitomize the local cuisine. From artisan chefs and professional sommeliers on our Loire Gastronomic Cycling trip to scrumptious cuisine served at Villa d’Amelia’s Michelin- starred restaurant Damiano Nigro, on our Gastronomic Barolo Cycling experience, we ensure your food is served with a spectacular view.

A HOME FROM HOME Finding high-quality hotels and characterful places is essential when crafting our interest-packed itineraries. Since 1985, we’ve been continuously sourcing and reinventing our hotel stays so you can truly relax after a day of exploring in a home away from home. One of our personal favourites to keep an eye out for this year includes the Curia Palace Hotel on our Porto to Coimbra Cycling trip. This palace is a lovingly restored ‘Belle Epoque’ building, in the centre of the charming spa town of Curia. Nestled amongst 14 acres of formal gardens and parkland, this idyllic spot offers an enchanting place to unwind.

From magnificent restaurant terraces to lake side picnics, there are many ways to dine with a view

ONE OF OUR FAVOURITES Château de Chissay, Loire On our Châteaux of the Loire Cycling trip, we stay at the breath-taking Château de Chissay. Lovingly restored in 1986, this building is steeped in history with both Charles VII and Louis XI being former residents. Set in 25 acres of parkland overlooking the beautiful Cher River, the Château de Chissay is the perfect base to discover the Loire region’s majestic forests and pretty wine villages. On the same trip, we also stay at the Auberge du Centre, a lovely, ivy clad village inn where warm welcomes are guaranteed from the Martinet family.

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 15 HEADWATER FAVOURITES

At Headwater, we live and breathe travel. Providing an excellent and personal service is a huge part of everything we do, ensuring we will never pass you from person to person. You will be given your own Personal Travel Consultant who will look after you from your initial enquiry through to your journey back home. We take your holiday experiences personally, so personally we experience the trips ourselves. Here are a selection of our team’s favourite adventures this year.

16 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com MICHELLE ROBERTS

Product Executive Michelle is the glue that holds the Product Team together. When she’s not liaising with our hoteliers and suppliers, you’ll find her talking about our Porto to Coimbra trip. Encompassing sumptuous cuisine, wine tastings and coastal views, it’s an unmissable adventure.

JOANNE CHAPLIN

Senior Travel Consultant Creating unforgettable travel experiences for Headwater customers over the last 12 years, Joanne recently got back from the magical city of Salzburg, on our Austrian Lakes trip, where you can unwind in the beautiful Goldener Ochs and Bergrose Hotels.

MORGAN O’HANLON

Sales Consultant Embracing the warm Norwegian smiles and cold winter weather, Morgan took on our Cross-Country Skiing holiday in Venabu, with all the additional extras such as dog sledding, snowshoeing and exploring the dramatic landscape on a horse drawn sleigh.

KERRY BRIERS

Overseas Customer Operations Executive Taking care of our international customers and coordinating their holidays of a lifetime for over 20 years, Kerry’s most recent trip was to the breath-taking architectural region of Puglia, where she visited Alberobello’s UNESCO listed conical Trulli and Ostuni’s white washed houses.

17 CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

Whether you want to fly from your local airport, add extra nights to explore a region a little more, or you’d like to combine a city break at the start or end of your trip – you can pick and choose what suits you best with our trip customisation options. We can also offer upgraded travel, additional meals or upgraded rooms at many of our hotels too, helping you enhance that special occasion. Just look for the ‘Customise your trip’ information on each of the trip itinerary pages, where you’ll find various options available to customise your trip to your requirements.

18 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com GETTING THERE

By Air Self Drive We offer both tour only and flight For customers wanting either a inclusive prices for freedom of choice short or long channel crossing, we and flexibility. We provide flights from offer competitive rates with P&O and London as standard or alternatively Brittany Ferries. The complimentary direct flights from many regional Wine Service is ideal if you opt to airports. We can also offer a number drive (ask for details). A selection of of low-cost carriers on selected holidays may also include car hire holidays. Non-standard transfer fees as standard (when booking an air may apply. inclusive package).

By Rail Transfers We can book Eurostar services, plus With so many different travel and any regional connections from King’s transport options available, tour only Cross St Pancras, Ebbsfleet and bookings do not automatically include Ashford. We often book local trains transfers. Flight inclusive holidays too as part of your holiday package, include standard transfers within the meaning you can relax knowing we’ve package price; We can also help with taken care of the details. non-standard transfers.

YOUR STAY

Hotel Room Upgrades Meal Upgrades Many of our holidays offer you In many of our locations, where the opportunity to enhance your restaurants are plentiful and easy experience by upgrading your room to to access, evening meals may not a more luxurious alternative. Please be provided, giving you freedom of feel free to get in touch to discuss your choice. Please ask your personal hotel preferences. travel consultant if further meal options are available if they are not already included. Room Arrangements If you would like to discuss special room requirements, single occupancy or options for groups of more than two, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise.

EXTEND YOUR STAY

City Breaks Additional nights Looking to linger a couple of days Sometimes on your way to your longer in Rome or in the Gaudi holiday destination you may find inspired Catalan capital Barcelona? yourself wanting to stay a couple of Call one of our friendly travel extra nights. If you’d like to make consultants to add a city break at a stop-over, we can easily add it to the beginning or end of your cycling your Headwater holiday itinerary with holiday, to truly immerse yourself in minimum fuss. its culture.

CYCLING UPGRADES Should you wish to upgrade your cycling experience, Headwater offer RidePlus, E-Bikes and tandem options on selected itineraries. See page 9 for details.

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 19 KEY INFORMATION

On the following pages, you’ll find our holidays listed for your convenience. We feature the highlights of each Headwater trip, including summaries with at-a-glance information on key features and what’s included. For more information on any of the holidays featured follow the web link at the foot of each page.

INFO CORNER

Each trip page has an information bar running down the outside edge to help you easily identify the region and activity of the featured trip. The top corner section highlights the activity - whether that is Cycling, Multi-Activity or Snow - along with the key countries or regions visited on the trips.

OUR ICONS CUSTOMER RATING

CYCLING MULTI-ACTIVITY SNOW

We send questionnaires to our customers Explore the world and engage Hike, bike or paddle your way Cross-country and downhill after their Headwater holiday and encourage with your surroundings on two round and explore the world skiing, winter walking and them to review their experience with us. Just wheels with Headwater’s differently on a Headwater much more – enjoy Headwater’s look out for the ratings listed on each trip cycling holidays. multi-activity holiday. colder locations and holidays. page to see its average customer rating.

HOTEL RATING NEW HOLIDAYS

L’Albara

Each individual holiday page, as well as our website, features accommodation that is clearly marked Look out for our NEW label which is with an official rating . Otherwise, if you cannot see one, look out for our own Headwater rating applied on every page detailing a brand of H, which is based on our extensive experience and high-quality criteria. new Headwater holiday.

20 20 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com ACTIVITY LEVELS

1 1 + 2 2 + 3

While it’s not possible to always be precise about how easy or difficult Our activity level ratings do not apply to RidePlus routes. Lightweight road an activity will be, our activity ratings have been carefully designed to give bikes must be hired (additional cost) or your own road bike provided for you a practical guide as to what you can expect. When assigning an activity all RidePlus routes. Routes supplied to be downloaded on your own GPS level to a holiday we consider factors such as gradient, length of ride as well device. as the terrain or road conditions.

1 2 3

LEISURELY MODERATE CHALLENGING

Gentle routes, often flat but with the More varied cycling terrain which will Longer routes with tougher on-road occasional short climb and freewheel appeal to the fair-weather cyclist, or to more and off-road terrain which will appeal to descent. On average, you should expect to active riders looking for a relaxed trip. No experienced cyclists. Riders are required be cycling for 3-5 hours on each cycling day, special technical skills are required but you to have a good level of physical fitness and leaving lots of time to explore at leisure, or must be in good health and reasonably fit. confidence in their abilities. even relax by the pool. A great choice for first-timers, families with children or anyone who hasn’t ridden a bike in years.

Gentle cross-country skiing and winter Suitable for more experienced skiers with These are more demanding trips that activities suitable for relative beginners. a good level of fitness. Routes will include require a high level of fitness and good Skiing is mostly on well prepared tracks. more ascents and descents and may include technique. Routes may include high sections through virgin snow. Customers snowy peaks, long ascents and faster paced should have controlled technique and ability sections. Suitable for experienced skiers to get up swiftly and easily after a fall. only.

+ + 1 2 These trips have some small sections of the route that are more challenging than the overall grading.

21 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 21 An introduction to UK & IRELAND

e offer four cycling holidays across the British Isles: in the Cotswolds in England, the Scottish Highlands and in the West of Ireland. Explore Warchetypal Highland scenery along parts of the Great Glen Way and Loch Ness or admire the vistas that inspired writers in the Cotswolds. All our UK holidays are carefully designed to take you through unique regional landscapes, histories and cultures – as are our tours of the Emerald Isle. Discover lively villages, tranquil bays and glacial valleys in County Kerry and while in stunning Ireland, make sure you sample the local Guinness, seafood specialities and soak up the traditional music.

22 CYCLING UK & IRELAND

23 UK & Ireland REGION BY REGION

REGION DPS BELFAST KERRY IRELAND

From the velvety green fields to picturesque DUBLIN mountain ranges of Kerry and unrivalled Irish charm, it’s hard not& to fall in love withMAPS this slice of Ireland. Head off the tourist path and explore the Ring of Kerry, the glaciated Gap of Dunloe, the Killarney lakes and National Park and the Wild Atlantic Way. Immerse yourself in the local KERRY culture in Dingle, the home of traditional Irish music and where Gaelic is still the local language. PAGE 28

24 INVERNESS

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Explore Scotland’s timeless scenery. Its beautiful, unspoilt landscapes with lochs, fern- clad hills, fragrant pine forests and waterfalls are wild and vast, yet, at the same time serene and give pause for contemplation. Cycle along EDINBURGH the Great Glen Way towards Fort Augustus and GLASGOW Loch Ness; visit the Falls of Foyers that inspired Robert Burns and enjoy the panoramic views from Suidhe Chuimein. PAGE 26 BELFAST NEWCASTLEREGION DPS

MANCHESTER & MAPS UNITED

KINGDOM COTSWOLDS

Take your time exploring England’s second largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. CARDIFF COTSWOLDS OXFORD Picturesque country lanes, lavender fields and golden-hued Saxon villages combine to BATH provide a very personal experience of this LONDON beautiful corner of England. Enjoy picnics and pub lunches, visits to manor houses and their stunning gardens in some of the area’s best- known villages including Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Campden. PAGE 27

25 CYCLING UK & IRELAND NEW ∙

SCOTLAND

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES LOCH NESS AND THE • 4 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  and  hotels • All breakfasts HIGHLANDS CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High quality bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Route directions and maps • RidewithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Explore the beautiful yet mysterious wilderness surrounding Loch Ness WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Incredible natural setting: majestic forests, peaceful rivers, fjord-like lochs, spectacular waterfalls • Catch glimpses of rich bird and wildlife; diverse flora and fauna, and dolphin sightings BW Inverness Palace  The Lovat  Pottery House  ITINERARY BY DAY 01 Arrive in Inverness CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Arrive in the waterside town of Inverness. Visit the castle with its 360° view over the Highland capital. 99Extra Nights 02 36KM (22MI) Gairlochy to Fort Augustus 99Single Occupancy A transfer takes you to Gairlochy from where your route follows the Great Glen Way as it criss-crosses 99Room Upgrades the Caledonian Canal and snakes effortlessly to Fort Augustus. En route you’ll pass beautiful forest, 99Travel Options peaceful rivers and brooding Loch Lochy whose sparkling waters and steep-forested hillsides give a fjord-like feel to the landscape. Your final stretch follows the foaming River Oich. You stay tonight in Fort Augustus at the southern tip of Loch Ness.

03 Fort Augustus to Dores 31KM(19.5MI) or 42KM (26.5MI) After a short transfer to Loch Tarff, you climb steadily to Suidhe Chuimein Viewpoint (1200ft) and continue, along General Wade’s old military road, to Whitebridge. From here, there’s a choice of route to Rabbie Burns’ famous Falls of Foyers; an incredible 140ft waterfall. It’s then on past the Boleskine woods and riverside Inverfarigaig to Dores, one of the most photographed villages of the region.

04 Dores to Inverness 40KM (25MI) After a transfer to Nairn head down to the Moray Firth, where the impregnable Fort George stands.

Continue to 14th Century Cawdor Castle, the setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth and pedal past the 4 NIGHTS FROM impressive Nairn viaduct and Cairns to arrive at Culloden, site of the last full-scale battle to take place on British soil in 1746. Ride on into Inverness and your riverside hotel. £915 05 Leave Inverness With daily departures from 1st May to 30th September 2020

Nairn Inverness Dores

Fort Augustus

Gairlochy

26 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C04LN CYCLING UK & IRELAND NEW ∙

COTSWOLDS

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CLASSIC • 5 nights B&B en-suite accommodation • All breakfasts • Services of your local COTSWOLDS CYCLE Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes • Luggage transfers between hotels CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS device with GPS route software • Route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • Explore the Cotswolds – England’s 2nd largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Beautiful historical villages including Chipping Campden, Bourton-on-the-Water and Winchcombe • Visit the ancient Saxon capital of Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle and the National Trust gardens Typical accommodation is listed below: The White Hart Royal Hotel The White Hart Inn ITINERARY BY DAY The Manor Close 01 Arrive in Moreton-in-Marsh Arrive in Moreton-in-Marsh, a thriving market town packed with antique shops, art galleries, tea shops CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP and historic pubs. 99E-Bikes Available 02 42KM (26.1MI) Moreton-in-Marsh to Winchcombe 99Extra Nights Begin your cycle through picturesque country lanes into Chipping Campden, a beautiful town with its 99City Break Add-Ons much-photographed market hall. Here you will find a perfect selection of charming pubs, restaurants 99Hotel Upgrades and old-style sandwich shops ideal for a lunch stop. Your cycle tour will then continue through Broadway Tower Country Park, that boasts the amazing views overlooking the Cotswolds. The route passes by fragrant lavender fields at Snowshill, an amazing kick to the senses around harvest time. Here, you can stop and visit Snowshill Manor, a National Trust property full of the extraordinary treasures collected by Charles Wade. Pedal through Stanway to Winchcombe, where you’ll spend an overnight stay.

03 Winchcombe to Bourton-on-the-Water 31KM (19.3MI) Today, your route will take you through the picturesque villages of Guiting Power, Lower Swell and the Slaughters, all of which will offer ideal chocolate-box photo opportunities. There will be plenty of chances to stop for refreshments, from the ‘post office’ in Guiting Power offering superb tea and cake to the wonderful Slaughters Country Inn. 5 NIGHTS FROM

04 Bourton-on-the-Water circular cycle loop through the Barringtons 33KM (20.5MI) Taking you through some of the best ‘off the beaten track’ routes in the Cotswolds, we cycle through £795 the beautiful villages of Great Rissington and Great Barrington. Enjoy the option to visit Burford with With departures on selected dates from its charming high street sloping down to the Windrush river and Northleach with its beautiful wool 1st March to 29th November 2020 church and museum of Mechanical Music.

05 Bourton-on-the-Water to Moreton-in-Marsh 24KM (14.9MI) Head towards the Evenlode valley, with hidden picturesque villages off the beaten track. Afterwards, enjoy a gentle ride back to Moreton-in-Marsh. Should you wish to extend your cycling, continue with a detour to historic Stow-on-the Wold, or the villages of Bledington, Kingham and Churchill. Moreton in Marsh 06 Leave Moreton-in-Marsh Winchcombe

Bourton on the Water

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KERRY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES WALKING AND CYCLING • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH, ,  hotels and B&B’s • All Breakfasts THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY • Management by your local Headwater- appointed agent • High Quality Hybrid Bikes CUSTOMER RATING MULTI-ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS directions with App • Route directions and map HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers • Soak in County Kerry’s Golden beaches, emerald-green farmland and cloud-torn mountains • Boat trip on day 2 • Cycle through the stunning Gap of Dunloe, Killarney’s National Park and hike to Torc Waterfall • Walking transfers • Enjoy a scenic boat trip through the three lakes of Killarney and visit Lord Brandon’s cottage WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Abbey Lodge  01 Arrive in Killarney 21KM (13MI) where you can taste the ‘water of life’ or take Bamburys Guesthouse  Check into the Abbey Lodge where you stay a boat trip (payable locally) to see Fungi the Teac Seain HHH for three nights and discover the delights of resident bottlenose dolphin, who was first seen Killarney. Or if you have time, enjoy a circular in the harbour in 1983! CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP cycle route to Killarney National Park, including 05 Ballyferriter and Dunquinn Cycle Muckross’s Lake, Abbey (15th century) and 99E-Bikes Available 41KM (25.5MI) House (19th century) with renowned gardens. 99Extra Nights Cycle west via Ventry to Slea Head, with 99Single Occupancy 02 magnificent views across the Blasket Sound Killarney Lakes and the Gap of Dunloe Cycle 99Travel Options and Transfers 24KM (15MI) to the Blasket Islands. Continue to Dunquinn Cycle to 15th century Ross Castle and enjoy and Ballyferriter before returning to Dingle. a scenic boat trip through the three lakes of Alternatively, from Dunquinn harbour take the Killarney to Lord Brandon’s cottage. Cycle ferry (pay locally) to Great Blasket Island to through the glaciated valleys of the Gap of explore this mystical and enchanting place. Dunloe with glistening lakes and jagged rock 06 Ballydavid and Brandon Creek Cycle faces before returning via the spectacular 22KM (13.5MI) Killarney National Park. If you are lucky you Cycle north to the beautiful village of Ballydavid, might catch a glimpse of the native wild red one of the largest fishing ports in the region. 7 NIGHTS FROM deer. Continue to Brandon Creek, the most westerly 03 point of Ireland before returning to Dingle. Esknamucky Glen and Torc Waterfall £1295 Walk 10KM (6MI) 07 Dingle to Annascaul Walk 14KM (8.5MI) After a transfer to Galway’s Bridge, you are With daily departures from After a short transfer, walk North to South along rewarded with panoramic views of the Killarney 1st April to 24th October 2020 the Dingle Peninsula following an old farmers lakes and mountains as you walk along the old track. Pass Annascaul lake and descend to Kenmare road through the Esknamucky Glen. Teac Seain for the last night in Annascaul at the Finish by visiting the famous Torc waterfall southern foothills of the Slieve Mish Mountains before returning to Killarney. 08 Leave Annascaul 04 Killarney to Dingle 20KM (12.5MI) Today you have an optional walk from Annascaul Dingle Annascaul to Dingle, or if you prefer, you can transfer all Killarney the way to Bamburys in Dingle where you stay for the next three nights. Enjoy this picturesque seaside town full of true Irish tradition, perhaps visit the Dingle Gin, Vodka and Whiskey Distillery,

28 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/M07KE CYCLING UK & IRELAND ∙

KERRY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES UNSPOILT RING OF • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of , HH and HHH • All breakfasts and 1 evening meal KERRY CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High quality bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • Luggage transfers between hotels HIGHLIGHTS • The Ring of Kerry - the ‘real’ Ireland, away from the crowds in beautiful scenery WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Gushing waterfalls, pretty loughs, peaceful bays • 10,000 years of dramatic history - early Christian forts, 15th century castles, ancient lakeside ruins Abbey Lodge HHHH The Towers Hotel  Ring of Kerry Hotel  ITINERARY BY DAY Blackstones House HH 01 Arrive in Killarney over the stunning Ballaghasheen Pass will Rockcrest House HH Check into Abbey Lodge for two nights, perhaps reward you with views back to Killarney. A long explore the town, choosing from one of its many descent on narrow roads alongside a gushing CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP restaurants for dinner. Then why not enjoy some river takes you to Blackstones House, where live traditional Irish music in a local bar? you’ll enjoy dinner (included). 99E-Bikes 99Extra Nights 02 21KM (13.5MI) Killarney National Park 06 Blackstones Bridge to Kenmare 99Single Occupancy Ride through the stunning Killarney National 42KM (26.5MI) 99Travel Options and Transfers Park where you’ll see the meeting of the waters Another stunning ride today up and over the where two of the ‘Three Lakes of Killarney’ spectacular Ballaghbeama Gap. The road takes converge. Marvel at Torc Waterfall, the second you through boulder-strewn countryside, cycling highest in Ireland, then visit Muckross House and by small lakes, following the Blackwater River its magnificent gardens. into the beautiful town of Kenmare, also called ‘the Gateway to Kerry’, and Rockcrest House. 03 Killarney to Glenbeigh 53KM (33.5MI) Follow the Fossa Way cycle route, before slowly 07 Blackstones Bridge to Kenmare 38KM (24MI) climbing up to the pretty Lough Acoose, below Cycle to Moll’s Gap and continue to the 7 NIGHTS FROM the peak of Carrauntuohill. Descend to the Black Valley, with rich fertile meadows and shores of Lough Caragh and on to charming a roaring river before climbing to the Gap of Glenbeigh and its blue flag beach. Tonight you Dunloe. Cycling along this glaciated valley, £1335 stay at the Towers Hotel. you’ll meander around the many lakes dotted With daily departures from throughout with sheer jagged rock faces 04 Glenbeigh to Cahersiveen 38KM (24MI) 1st April to 24th October 2020 towering above you. Head back into Killarney You’ll follow the coast today, passing small Available as a 6 night trip from £1285 farms and on to the beautiful and peaceful through the National Park, past the 15th century shores of Kells Bay. Pass Ballycarbery Castle Ross Castle, before returning to Abbey Lodge. with a wonderful seaside view and two early 08 Leave Killarney Christian stone forts. You’ll arrive in the lively town of Cahersiveen, the birthplace of Daniel Killarney Glenbeigh O’Connell, the Irish political leader (1775-1847) Blackstone’s to stay at Ring of Kerry Hotel. Bridge Cahersiveen

05 Cahersiveen to Blackstones Bridge Kenmare 38KM (24MI) Pass the ruins of Daniel O’Connell’s birth home before heading back inland where you’ll see ruined abbeys and ancient graveyards. A climb Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/CO7KE 29 An introduction to FRANCE

oasting incredible geological and cultural diversity, our trips to France feature a variety of regions, each with their own unique look and feel. Journey through Btime from the prehistoric caves of the Dordogne to the medieval villages of Alsace and the magnificent Renaissance châteaux in the Loire valley. But there is more to France than a variety of architectural styles. Renowned worldwide for the excellence of its cuisine, France also boasts the finest of wines, from the refreshingly sweet whites of the Alsace to the hearty reds of Burgundy. Whether it’s spending a week discovering the ancient buildings and gastronomic delights of medieval towns like Sarlat in the Dordogne or wandering around the ochre-hued hilltop villages of Provence, we cover all the highlights for you to discover many more of France’s hidden treasures.

30 CYCLING FRANCE

31 France REGION BY REGION

BRITTANY

NANTES

LOIRE

BRITTANY

Pink cliffs, poppy fringed beaches and turquoise seas – Brittany’s stunning coastal landscape has captivated writers and artists for centuries. Explore its evocative châteaux and imposing forts, traditional fishing ports and medieval walled towns and sample its fruits of the land and the sea – maybe try a seafood platter BORDEAUX washed down with some local cider. REGIONPAGE 37 DPS & MAPS

LOIRE VALLEY DORDOGNE

This majestic, UNESCO recognised region Known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Châteaux’, boasts some impressive architectural heritage the Dordogne region is one of the most with over 300 fine châteaux, complete with photogenic in France, with UNESCO pre-historic turrets, moats and stunning formal gardens sites, sleepy medieval villages and cliff top – justifying the region’s name as the ‘Garden châteaux standing guard over the meandering of France’. Thanks to its fertile soil and mild river below. Here activities abound – choose climate, there are gastronomic delights and to cycle, canoe or walk in your discovery of this wine tasting opportunities galore, making it spectacular region of dramatic contrasts. perfect for wine lovers and gastronomes. PAGE 43 PAGE 34

32 CALAIS

LE HAVRE

PARIS

FRANCE STRASBOURG ALSACE

ALSACE Discover the chocolate box region of Alsace, with its medieval villages, cobbled streets and BURGUNDY half-timbered houses. Follow the iconic Route DIJON des Vins through lush vineyards to Sélestat and its UNESCO Humanist library, head to the impressive Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle and wander around the colourful town of Obernai, overlooked by the Vosges and with its fascinating history of Saint Odile. PAGE 42

DORDOGNE BORDEAUX REGION DPS

MONTPELLIER PROVENCE & MAPSNICE MARSEILLES TOULOUSE

BURGUNDY

Discover a region full of heritage, cycling past flower-adorned villages and fields that come alive with bright red poppies. Explore the medieval riverside town of Auxerre with its cathedral, half-timbered houses and clock tower, or the walled town of Beaune and its 15th century Hospice with its colourful tiled roof. Gothic abbeys, Renaissance châteaux, gastronomic delights and fabulous vineyard PROVENCE landscapes await. PAGE 38

Cycling past lavender scented meadows, rich vineyards and sweet apple orchards and you’ll instantly know you’re in the beguiling region of Provence that has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Head up to the medieval perched village of Gordes for a spectacular panorama, pedal to vibrant, ochre coloured Roussillon or stop off at the Côtes du Ventoux vineyards for superb wine tasting. PAGE 46 33 3 + 2 2 + 1 1 CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL ACTIVITY CYCLING

CYCLING Shady riverside cycling paths, lush forest trails, quiet country lanes trails, lush forest paths, cycling Shady riverside France’s finest châteaux: Amboise, Cheverny, Chenonceau, Chambord Chenonceau, Cheverny, finest châteaux: Amboise, France’s menus and world famous wines Outstanding gastronomic Easy, flat cycling and short distances - perfect if you’ve not cycled for years for not cycled you’ve if and short distances - perfect flat cycling Easy, hotel and a luxurious château waterfront including a bijou with pools, all Superb hotels, Highlights

CUSTOMER RATING CUSTOMER LOIRE GASTRONOMIC CYCLING GASTRONOMIC LOIRE

LOIRE VALLEY

FRANCE ∙ 34 CYCLING FRANCE ∙

LOIRE VALLEY

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive at Chissay Chaumont and its spectacular château, which hosts the Arrive at the Château de Chissay, steeped in history and set in International Garden Festival (May-Oct). A riverside stretch 25ha of parkland. Enjoy a swim before your dinner (included) takes you via pretty villages to Ouchamps. Enjoy two nights at in the stately dining room, which was once the guard room. the Relais des Landes, a 17th century manor house beautifully set in its own private grounds, with evening meals included. 02 Chissay to St-Ouen-les-Vignes 29KM (18MI) Pedal gently along the banks of the Cher to the superb 05 At Ouchamps OPTIONAL 35KM (22MI) Château de Chenonceau with its famous arches that span the Cycle to the 17th century château at nearby Cheverny, with river. Head through the shady Amboise forest and on to the its wonderful white stone façade. Alternatively, head to the sleepy village of St-Ouen-les-Vignes. You’ll spend two nights magnificent Château de Chambord by taxi (pay locally) and at the Hôtel L’Aubinière with further gastronomic delights explore its surrounding parkland. included. 06 Ouchamps to Chissay 37KM (23MI) 03 At St-Ouen-les-Vignes OPTIONAL 43KM (27MI) Head south, to the fortified château of Fougères-sur-Bièvre. Explore the narrow bustling streets of Amboise today - visit Freewheel down to the River Cher and medieval Montrichard, the flamboyant Royal Palace and Leonardo da Vinci‘s home at then continue to the Château de Chissay where a gastronomic le Clos Lucé. Alternatively, head to Vouvray for wine tastings. dinner (included) awaits. 04 St-Ouen-les-Vignes to Ouchamps 42KM (26MI) 07 Leave Chissay Cycle through the open countryside to Autreche and on to

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH, • GPS route directions and maps  and  hotels • RideWithGPS navigation app • All breakfasts and gastronomic evening meals • Luggage transfers between hotels • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Headwater Wine Collection Service • High Quality Bikes WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Château de Chissay HHH Relais des Landes  Hôtel L’Aubinière  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Single Occupancy 99Tandems Available 99Room Upgrades Available 99Extra Nights in Chissay 99Travel Options and Transfers 99City Break Add-On in Paris 99Various Durations

St-Ouen- Ouchamps 6 NIGHTS FROM les-Vignes

Chissay £1605 With departures every two days from 9th May to 20th September 2020 Available as a 4 night trip from £1285 Available as a non gastronomic trip from £1545

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LOIRE VALLEY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CHATEAUX OF THE LOIRE • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH and  hotels • All breakfasts and evening meals CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Perfect cycling routes: traffic-free lanes, majestic forests, vineyards, poppies and sunflowers • Headwater Wine Collection Service • Hand-picked hotels in fabulous locations, three with swimming pools • Splendour of Renaissance Chenonceau – ‘jewel in the Loire crown’ WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Château de Chissay HHH ITINERARY BY DAY Hostellerie du Château  01 Arrive in Chissay Maison d’A Coté  Arrive in Chissay where your fabulous château hotel awaits, the Château de Chissay. There’s time for a Auberge du Centre  swim before dinner which is included.

02 Chissay to Chaumont 45KM (28MI) CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Head through the Forêt d’Amboise to the bustling town of Amboise. Explore the narrow, cobbled 99E-Bikes Available streets and Leonardo da Vinci’s home then continue on through vineyards to Chaumont and the quirky 99Tandems Available Hostellerie du Château for two nights. Evening meals are included. 99Extra Nights 03 At Chaumont 99City Break Add-On in Paris Visit the impressive château, previously owned by Catherine de Medici, and the superb themed Garden 99Room Upgrades Available Festival (May to Oct). Alternatively, cross the river and take the train to lively Tours. 99Single Occupancy 99Travel Options and Transfers 04 Chaumont to Montlivault 33KM (21MI) Cross the river and head to Blois to explore its château, Houdini’s House of Magic, the cobbled streets and arcaded squares. Continue through vineyards to Montlivault and the Maison d’A Coté, where you’ll spend the next two nights with evening meals included. 05 At Montlivault It’s a gentle ride through the Forêt de Boulogne to the huge fairytale château at Chambord, with its 8 NIGHTS FROM 440 rooms and surrounding national nature reserve. 06 Montlivault to Chitenay 42KM (26.5MI) £1715 Highlights today include the Château de Villesavin, the richly decorated Château de Troussay With departures every two days from and its ancient trees in surrounding parkland. Head along quiet rural roads to the pretty village 9th May to 20th September 2020 of Chitenay. Here you’ll stay for two nights at the Auberge du Centre where evening meals are included and taken on the terrace overlooking the gardens and pool. 07 At Chitenay Montlivault It’s very tempting to stay in Chitenay and relax by the pool or enjoy wine tasting in the village. Alternatives include trips to the immaculate Château de Cheverny or the 16th century Château de Beauregard. Chitenay Chaumont 08 Chitenay to Chissay 44KM (27MI) Head south to the fortified Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, then continue past Sambin to the superb Château de Chenonceau with its famous arches majestically spanning the river. It’s an easy cycle to the Château de Chissay for a well-earned dip in the pool before dinner (included). Chissay 09 Leave Chissay

36 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C08LR CYCLING FRANCE ∙

BRITTANY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES BACKROADS OF BRITTANY • 8 nights hotel to hotel accomodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 2 evening meals CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Beautiful coastal paths, quiet inland country lanes, pretty villages for relaxing lunches • Headwater Cider Collection Service • Stunning poppy-fringed beaches, undoubtedly amongst the finest in Europe • Traditional Breton fishing ports, medieval walled towns and colourful harbours WHERE YOU’LL STAY Le Manoir des Portes  ITINERARY BY DAY Hôtel de Diane  01 Arrive in Lamballe Hôtel Printania  Your holiday starts at the 16th century Manoir des Portes, with its beautifully kept gardens, just 3km Hôtel Dinan Port le Jerzual  outside the market town of Lamballe. Relax with an apéritif before dinner (included).

02 Lamballe to Sables-d’Or-les-Pins 37KM (23MI) CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Head along quiet country lanes then out to the coast and the sailing resort of Pléneuf-Val-André. 99E-Bikes Available Beachside trails lead you to your hotel, the Hôtel de Diane, just 200m from the sea, where you’ll spend 99Tandems Available the next two nights. 99Extra Nights in Dinan 03 At Sables-d’Or-les-Pins 99City Break Add-On in Paris Relax on the beach or follow our 25km circular route taking in the Cap Fréhel Lighthouse and the 99Room Upgrades Available famous Fort de la Latte, which occupies one of the finest settings in northern France. 99Hotel Upgrade in Dinard Available 99Single Occupancy 04 Sables-d’Or-les-Pins to Dinard 43KM (27MI) 99Travel Options and Transfers Pedal through pretty farming hamlets then head to the yachting village of Lancieux and onto gorgeous Saint-Briac, where Debussy composed his major work ‘La Mer’. You’ll spend the next two nights at the Hôtel Printania. 05 At Dinard Dinard is one of the most famous and upmarket seaside resorts in Europe. Walk out to the Pointe des 8 NIGHTS FROM Étrêtes for views of the off-shore islands or take a 10-minute ferry across the bay to Saint-Malo and its ancient fortified walls. £1465 06 Dinard to Dinan 34KM (21MI) With departures every two days from Cycle inland and take a trip back in time following the banks of the River Rance past sleepy hamlets, 9th May to 20th September 2020 fishing ports and beautiful Saint-Suliac. Enjoy lunch at the sailing port in Saint-Hubert then cycle along the flat towpath to Dinan and the Hôtel Dinan Port le Jerzual, where you’ll spend two nights. 07 At Dinan This beautifully preserved ancient walled town is known for its riverfront port and half-timbered buildings. Admire the architectural heritage and perhaps follow our 25km circular route inland Dinard to the pretty village of Évran. Sables- d’Or-Les-Pins 08 Dinan to Lamballe 47KM (29MI) Your first stop is the village of Léhon then it’s on to the impressive 13th century Château de la Hunaudaye with its majestic towers and water-filled moat, before a gentle cycle back to the Lamballe Manoir des Portes in Lamballe for your final dinner (included).

09 Leave Lamballe Dinan

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CYCLING Roman and Romanesque abbeys; Gothic and Renaissance châteaux Gothic and Renaissance abbeys; and Romanesque Roman of St Etienne home to the Gothic Cathedral Historic Auxerre, Gentle, relaxing cycling on totally unspoilt routes with world famous vineyards and local wines and local with world famous vineyards unspoilt routes on totally cycling relaxing Gentle, and canals rivers picturesque hidden meadows, adorned villages, Flower Highlights

CUSTOMER RATING CUSTOMER CHABLIS VINEYARDS CYCLING CHABLIS VINEYARDS

BURGUNDY

FRANCE ∙ 38 CYCLING FRANCE ∙

BURGUNDY

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Auxerre opportunities here. You may also visit Pontigny, reputed to be Auxerre is one of France’s prettiest medieval cities, standing home of the greatest Cistercian abbey in the country. on the banks of the Yonne. You’ll find two Gothic churches: 04 Ligny-le-Chatel to Nitry 49KM (31MI) the Cathedral of St-Etienne (13th and 16th century with Cycle along country lanes to Chablis, surrounded by its magnificent stained glass windows) and the Abbey of St- famous vineyards and with plenty of opportunities for wine Germain (13th and 14th century with a 19th century crypt). tasting. Continue on through the Serein Valley before heading The Hôtel Normandie is ideally located to discover the west to Nitry. Arrive at the Auberge de la Beursaudière, where delights of the city. you’ll spend two nights, with dinner included in the traditional 02 Auxerre to Ligny-le-Chatel 32KM (20MI) restaurant. Leaving Auxerre, it’s flat gentle cycling along the River Yonne 05 At Nitry and through the forest of St-Germain to Seignelay, here you’ll Head across country to medieval Noyers-sur-Serein find castle remains, a fine market hall and pretty views over recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France the Serein. Head via the magnificent abbey at Pontigny (which with its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets with artisan gave sanctuary to Thomas Beckett) to before arriving at Relais wares, 12th century castle site, church and chapels. St Vincent for the next two nights, with dinner included. 06 Nitry to Auxerre 44KM (28MI) 03 At Ligny-le-Chatel Pedal to Cravant, then follow the towpath towards Auxerre Originally this was the Roman Lanniacum Castrum; later, and picnic on the banks of the Yonne. Head to the amazing Marguerite de Bourgogne lived here. See the Church of St Bailly wine cellars where Cremant sparkling wines are made, Peter and St Paul (Romanesque on the inside, Renaissance before returning to historic Auxerre, with its abbey, cathedral, outside). It’s just a 10km cycle to the small village of Chablis, shops and superb indoor and outdoor swimming complexes. almost entirely given over to the production of the world’s most celebrated white wine. There are masses of tasting 07 Leave Auxerre YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH, and • GPS route directions and maps  hotels • RideWithGPS navigation app • All breakfasts and 4 evening meals • Luggage transfers between hotels • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Headwater Wine Collection Service • High quality bikes WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hôtel Normandie  Auberge de la Beursaudiere HHH Relais St Vincent  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Single Occupancy 99Extra Nights in Auxerre 99Room Upgrades Available 99City Break Add-On in Paris 99Travel Options and Transfers

Ligny-le-Châtel 6 NIGHTS FROM

£1065 With departures every two days 9th May to 20th Auxerre September 2020 Also available as 4 and 7 night trips A similar 8 night version is also available from £1085 Nitry

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3 + 2 2 + 1 1

CYCLING Varied cycling: vineyard tracks, country lanes, waterside paths and greenways waterside country lanes, tracks, vineyard cycling: Varied Authentic medieval châteaux and traditional unspoilt wine villages châteaux and traditional medieval Authentic of Burgundy the wine capital in Beaune, and stay Discover Highlights CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL ACTIVITY CYCLING

OF BEAUNE CYCLING THE GRAND CRU THE GRAND CYCLING

BURGUNDY

FRANCE ∙ 40 CYCLING FRANCE ∙

BURGUNDY

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Beaune 04 Gevrey-Chambertin to Sainte-Sabine 55KM (34MI) Wander the medieval streets of Beaune and marvel at the Enjoy spectacular views from the Combe de Lavaux nature multi coloured roofs of the 15th century Hospices de Beaune. reserve and the towpaths and greenways of the Canal de Overnight at the perfectly located Hotel Le Central and take Bourgogne and River Ouche. Visit the Château de Barbirey and your pick from the plethora of local restaurants nearby. its superb gardens and your ride concludes at the 18th century Château Saint Sabine, your home for the next two 02 Beaune to Gevrey-Chambertin 42KM (26.5MI) nights. Pedal through some of the world’s most famous wineries today and visit the lovely 18th century château at Pommard. 05 At Sainte-Sabine 25KM (16MI) From Beaune, head to Nuits-Saint-Georges for lunch, then Take the circular route to explore two famous Burgundy it’s on through the Vosne-Romanée vineyards to Gevrey- castles: Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, perched on a hilltop with its Chambertin. You’ll spend the next two nights at La Rôtisserie 15th century fortress and 12th century keep, and a splendid de Chambertin. moated 13th century château in the village of Commarin.

03 At Gevrey-Chambertin 06 Sainte-Sabine to Beaune 41KM (26MI) Explore the ancient city of Dijon and its Church of Notre Head to the ancient town of Bligny-sur-Ouche then on to Dame, as well as the timbered houses, the Gothic cathedral Montceau-et-Écharnant, where the ground is paved with with its 1,000-year-old crypt and the Palace of the Dukes of the gravestones of Templar Knights. From here it’s downhill Burgundy. to Nantoux, and the vineyards beyond, where wine tasting awaits. Return to the Le Central in Beaune for your final night. 07 Leave Beaune YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of , • High Quality Bikes  and HHH hotels • GPS route directions and maps • All breakfasts • RideWithGPS navigation app • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent • Luggage transfers between hotels WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hotel le Central HHH Château Sainte Sabine  La Rôtisserie de Chambertin  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Half Board Gastronomic Upgrade in some locations 99Extra Nights in Beaune 99 Hotel Upgrade in Beaune Available 99City Break Add-On in Paris 99Travel Options and Transfers 99Single Occupancy 99Room Upgrades Available

6 NIGHTS FROM Gevrey- Sainte- Chambertin Sabine £1155 With departures every Tuesday and Saturday from 2nd May to 29th September 2020 Available as a 4 night trip from £995 and as a 4 and 6 night holiday with gastronomic options

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ALSACE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES WINE VILLAGES OF • 7 nights accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 1 evening meal ALSACE CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Cycle along Alsace’s ‘Route des Vins’ wine road and the Camino de Santiago • Headwater Wine Collection Service • Rich historic interest: hilltop Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle & UNESCO-listed Sélestat Humanist Library • Fantastic views of the Vosges Mountains and the Alsatian Plains WHERE YOU’LL STAY Domaine de Rouffach ITINERARY BY DAY Hôtel les Remparts  01 Arrive in Rouffach Hôtel Vaillant  Arrive in the medieval village of Rouffach on Alsace’s famous Route des Vins. You’ll stay at the A La Cour d’Alsace­  Domaine de Rouffach, with dinner included.

02 Rouffach to Kaysersberg 33KM (20.5MI) CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP A steady climb takes you to Husseren-les-Châteaux, the highest village along the Route des Vins 99E-Bikes Available before descending into the ancient village of Eguisheim, where the Romans first introduced wine 99Extra Nights in Obernai growing. Then join the Camino de Santiago through vines and villages to Kaysersberg and the Hôtel 99City Break Add-On in Strasbourg les Remparts, where you stay for the next two nights. 99Room Upgrades Available 03 At Kaysersberg OPTIONAL 27KM (17MI) 99Single Occupancy Spend the day exploring the medieval streets and take a stroll up to the ruins of the old fortress. Or 99Travel Options and Transfers cycle to Colmar to explore the historic old town and riverside.

04 Kaysersberg to Sélestat 27KM (17MI) Today’s highlights include Riquewihr – still enclosed by its medieval walls, Ribeauvillé – with its fountains and hillside ruins, and Kintzheim – dominated by the remains of its 13th-15th century castle. Your hotel for the next two nights is the Hôtel Vaillant.

05 At Sélestat OPTIONAL 42KM/26MI 7 NIGHTS FROM Explore the medieval streets of this one-time Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire, taking in the wonderful architecture, and the Sélestat Humanist Library. You can also take the bus to mighty £1245 Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, or cycle across the Rhine into Germany to discover the charming village of Sasbach-am-Kaiserstuhl. With departures every two days from 9th May to 20th September 2020 06 Sélestat to Obernai 34KM (21MI) Stop for coffee in pretty Dambach-la-Ville and visit the Chapel of St. Sebastian, parts of which date to the 12th century. For lunch, Barr is perfect and full of impressive half-timbered houses, typically Obernai dating from the 16th-18th century. Continue to Obernai and your hotel for the next two nights, A La Cour d’Alsace.

07 At Obernai Sélestat Obernai sits between the three main features of Alsace; the vineyards, the Vosges mountains and the Alsatian Plains. Discover its ancient cobbled streets or for spectacular views, take a taxi ride up Mount St Odile to Hohenburg Abbey. Kaysersberg 08 Leave Obernai

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DORDOGNE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES DORDOGNE VALLEYS AND • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 3 evening meals VILLAGES CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Dramatic river valleys, fairytale châteaux, medieval villages, stunning Sarlat • Headwater Wine Collection Service • Prehistoric sites including the impressive Lascaux Caves complex and Les Eyzies • Varied riverside cycling following the banks of the Vézère, Dordogne, Beaune and Borreze rivers WHERE YOU’LL STAY La Vieille Auberge  ITINERARY BY DAY Hôtel Meysset  01 Arrive in Souillac 06 Les Eyzies to Montignac 29KM (18MI) Hôtel Les Glycines  Arrive at La Vieille Auberge. Explore the town or An initial climb today before a fabulous Hotel La Roseraie  take a dip in the pool before dinner (included). freewheel down to La Roque St-Christophe, the oldest and largest cave site in western 02 Souillac to Sarlat 36KM (23MI) CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Europe, then on to the pretty village of St Léon. Head west to visit the fabulous Château de Continue along the river to the medieval town of 99E-Bikes Available Fénelon with its fine collection of armour and Montignac and the charming La Roseraie, your 99Tandems Available objets d’art. Then on to the Hôtel Meysset in hotel for the next two nights. 99Extra Nights in Sarlat Sarlat where you’ll stay for the next two nights 99City Break Add-On in Toulouse with dinner included. 07 At Montignac 99Room Upgrades Available Montignac oozes charm and is well worth 03 At Sarlat 99Single Occupancy exploring. Perhaps wander up to the ruined Explore Sarlat’s stunning Old Town with its 99Travel Options and Transfers château, before heading off to the nearby beautiful jumble of varying architectural styles. Lascaux caves complex, ranked as the number Alternatively, visit the bustling market on a one prehistoric site in Europe. Back at the hotel, Wednesday/Saturday or cycle to Domme or the gardens and swimming pool are perfect for La Roque-Gageac. relaxing and soaking up the summer sun. 04 Sarlat to Les Eyzies 40KM (25MI) 08 Montignac to Souillac 47KM (29MI) 8 NIGHTS FROM Head through the Périgord Nord via Beynac and Discover the tiny farming village of St-Amand- visit its hilltop fortified castle. Then it’s on past de-Coly, then head out to Salignac. From here, traditional Périgoudine houses in Meyrals to Les £1695 we recommend a short detour to the Manoir Eyzies where you’ll stay at the Hôtel Les Glycines d’Eyrignac, whose gardens are rated the best in With departures every two days from for the next two nights. France, before continuing to La Vieille Auberge 9th May to 20th September 2020 05 At Les Eyzies for your final night. Steep limestone cliffs surround the village, with 09 Leave Souillac shelters and caves. Explore locally, go canoeing or head out through the magnificent Vézère Gorges and back via the Abri du Cap Blanc, where you’ll find the only remaining frieze of Montignac prehistoric sculptures in the world.

Les Eyzies Sarlat Souillac

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DORDOGNE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES DORDOGNE ACTIVITIES • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • All breakfasts and 6 evening meals CUSTOMER RATING MULTI-ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Services of your local Headwater Representative HIGHLIGHTS • Route directions and maps • Three activities in one: two days canoeing with a choice of walking or cycling for the remaining days • High Quality Bikes • Impressive châteaux, troglodyte cave dwellings, Grottes de Lacave and Gouffre de Padirac • GPS route directions and RideWithGPS • Spectacular river valleys, pinky-gold cliffs and pretty medieval villages navigation app (for cycling) • Choice of Canadian canoe or sit-on-top kayak • Buoyancy aid and helmet (for canoeing) ITINERARY BY DAY • Luggage transfers between hotels 01 Arrive in Martel Arrive at the Relais Sainte-Anne, and if you have time, you can explore Martel’s medieval streets WHERE YOU’LL STAY before dinner (included). Le Relais Sainte-Anne  WALK 10KM (6.5MI),2.5HR CYCLE 14KM (9MI) Hôtel La Terrasse  02 Martel to Meyronne or Walkers can enjoy wonderful views from the summit of Mont Mercou, whilst cyclists can pedal to the La Vieille Auberge  village of Gluges, on the banks of the Dordogne river. You’ll stay at the Hôtel La Terrasse with evening Château de Monrecour  meals included. Hôtel Meysset  03 At Meyronne Today, choose between walking to the Roc des Monges viewpoint, visiting the Grottes de Lacave or the CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP caves of the Gouffre de Padirac, or cycling to Rocamadour. 99Extra Nights in Martel and Sarlat 04 Meyronne to Souillac CANOE 17KM (11MI), 4-5HR 99City Break Add-On in Toulouse After a canoeing lesson, paddle below stunning cliffs and imposing châteaux to Souillac, where you’ll 99Room Upgrades Available spend the next two nights at La Vieille Auberge. 99Single Occupancy 99Travel Options and Transfers 05 At Souillac Wander around this bustling market town, walk to La Durantie for stunning views or cycle to the Château de Fénelon, a 12th century Cathar stronghold.

06 Souillac to Saint-Vincent-de-Cosse CANOE 20KM (12.5MI), 4-5HR It’s a gentle paddle to Groléjac through the heart of the peaceful Périgord countryside. We pick you 8 NIGHTS FROM up and take you to the tranquil Château de Monrecour, where you stay for two nights, with dinner included. £1725 07 At Saint-Vincent-de-Cosse With departures every two days from Stroll to Beynac and climb the steep footpath to a spectacular 13th century hilltop château, with a 2nd June to 20th September 2020 breathtaking view of the serpentine sweep of the river. Or you could visit the beautiful Jardins de Marqueyssac and the impressive Château de Castelnaud (approximately 6km/4mi away).

08 Saint-Vincent-de-Cosse to Sarlat WALK 18KM (11MI) or CYCLE 34KM (21MI) Today go on foot or by bike through pretty villages and shaded woods to medieval Sarlat. Wander through the narrow streets and ancient courtyards before making your way to the tranquility of your Martel hotel, in time for a last dip in the pool before dinner (included). Sarlat Souillac 09 Leave Sarlat Saint-Vincent- Meyronne de-Cosse

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DORDOGNE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CANOEING ON • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of ,  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 4 evening meals THE DORDOGNE • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Route directions and maps CUSTOMER RATING • Canadian canoes or sit-on-top kayaks HIGHLIGHTS • Buoyancy aid and helmet • Luggage transfers between hotels • One of France’s most celebrated rivers: wide, peaceful, calm, flat, ideal for beginners • Friendly hotels, all with pools; superb regional cuisine • Excellent views, picturesque villages, prehistoric caverns, imposing châteaux WHERE YOU’LL STAY Le Relais Sainte-Anne  ITINERARY BY DAY Hostellerie Fénélon  Hôtel La Terrasse  01 Arrive in Martel La Vieille Auberge  Arrive at Le Relais Sainte-Anne in the medieval town of Martel. Relax in the hotel’s extensive gardens La Villa Romaine  before dinner (included).

02 Martel/Thézel to Carennac 13KM (8MI), 3-4HR CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP After a canoeing lesson, it’s an easy, scenic paddle down to the picturesque village of Carennac, one of the Dordogne’s most picturesque villages, with its jumble of 16th century manor houses and ancient 99Bike hire on free days priory. The Hostellerie Fénélon sits overlooking the river, and is home for the next two nights. 99Extra Nights in Martel 99City Break Add-On in Toulouse 03 At Carennac 99Room Upgrades Available Explore Carennac’s narrow streets and alleyways or visit the Gouffre de Padirac with its amazing 99Single Occupancy caverns and galleries. 99Travel Options and Transfers

04 Carennac to Meyronne 20KM (12.5MI), 5-6HR Glide past imposing cliffs and riverside châteaux en route to your 11th century château hotel, the Hôtel La Terrasse. Dinner is included for your two nights here. 05 At Meyronne Relax by the hotel pool, walk to the impressive Roc des Monges or visit the Grottes de Lacave. For a longer day out, walk to unique Rocamadour, one of France’s most venerated sites. 8 NIGHTS FROM

06 Meyronne to Souillac 17KM (11MI), 4-5HR A gentle paddle past Belcastel and the impressive Château de la Treyne to Souillac, where you’ll stay £1625 at the Vieille Auberge. With departures every two days from 07 At Souillac 2nd June to 20th September 2020 Explore the lively market town of Souillac, home to the unusual Musée de l’Automate, the largest collection of mechanical toys and dolls in France.

08 Souillac to Groléjac/Carsac-Aillac 20KM (12.5MI), 4-5HR ézel Canoe to Groléjac via pretty St-Julien, through the heart of peaceful Périgord countryside. Transfer to the Villa Romaine for your final night, where dinner is included. Martel Carennac 09 Leave Carsac-Aillac Souillac

Meyronne Carsac-Aillac

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PROVENCE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES LANDSCAPES OF THE • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • All continental breakfasts and 4 evening LUBERON CYCLING meals • Services of your local Headwater Representative CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • High Quaility Bikes • GPS route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • RideWithGPS navigation app • Vineyards, olive groves and apple orchards, punctuated by canals and clear flowing rivers • Luggage transfers between hotels • The region’s famous lavender scent; beautiful ochre coloured towns • Headwater Wine Collection Service • Vibrant yet unspoilt landscapes that inspired Picasso and Van Gogh WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Hôtel L’Hermitage  01 Arrive in Pernes-Les-Fontaines 05 At Apt Mas de la Sénancole  Arrive at your 3-star hotel in Pernes-les- Explore Apt’s Old Town and ancient Roman Hôtel Sainte Anne  Fontaines. Dinner is included tonight at a local cathedral. In addition to the town’s museums, La Bastide du Bois Bréant  restaurant. visit the colourful Saturday and Tuesday markets, selling locally grown produce and 02 Pernes-Les-Fontaines to Les Imberts CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Provençal arts and crafts. 34KM (21.5MI) 99E-Bikes Available Cycle along the Canal de Carpentras towards the 06 37KM (23MI) Apt to Maubec 99Tandems Available ‘island city’ of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Head on to Pedal alongside the River Calavon before 99Extra Nights Available the charming village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. crossing the Roman Pont Julien. Then, cycle 99City Break Add-Ons Visit the largest spring in France, or potter to the wonderful village of Bonnieux, passing 99Room Upgrades Available around its quaint shops before a climb with the Château La Canorgue for a wine tasting. 99Single Occupancy stunning views of the Luberon Valley. Ride to the Continue with superb views of hilltop Lacoste 99Travel Options and Transfers village of Les Imberts and enjoy two nights at through the centre of the Luberon to the Bastide the Mas de la Sénancole, with dinner included. du Bois Bréant, home for the next two nights.

03 At Les Imberts (OPTIONAL) 8KM (5MI) 07 Maubec OPTIONAL 27KM (17MI) Walk or cycle to the famous medieval hilltop Options today include a circular ride to the village of Gordes, to experience one of the best villages of Lagnes, Taillades and Robion. 8 NIGHTS FROM views over the Luberon - a patchwork of open Alternatively, take a taxi to St Rémy-de-Provence plains, sprawling vineyards and olive groves. to explore its Old Town and the monastery where £1695 Explore its castle or take a taxi to the beautiful Van Gogh lived when he painted ‘The Starry Sénanque Abbey. Night’. With departures every two days from 9th May to 4th October 2020 04 Les Imberts to Apt 38KM (24MI) 08 Maubec To Pernes-Les-Fontaines Make the short climb up to Roussillon, the start 38KM (24MI) of the Ochre Trail. Pedalling to Gargas, stop at Cycle past apple orchards to the medieval town the vast Ochre Mines of Bruoux. Pass vineyards of Le Thor, before continuing to hilltop Thouzon. up to the village of Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, Visit Castle Thouzon and Les Grottes de Pernes-les-Fontaines before descending to the medieval town of Apt, Thouzon, then continue to Pernes-les-Fontaines famous for its crystallised fruits and traditional and the Hôtel l’Hermitage for your final dinner, pottery. Enjoy a two night stay at the Hôtel Sainte which is included. Anne. Apt 09 Leave Pernes-Les-Fontaines Les Imberts Maubec

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PROVENCE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES HILLTOP VILLAGES OF • 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • All breakfasts and 2 evening meals PROVENCE CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High quaility bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • A lavender-scented patchwork of sun-drenched vineyards, olive groves and apple orchards • Headwater Wine Collection Service • Medieval hilltop villages: Gordes and Bonnieux, with spectacular views across the Luberon • Quiet country lanes and cycle paths in quintessential Provençal countryside WHERE YOU’LL STAY Hôtel L’Hermitage  ITINERARY BY DAY Les Sables d’Ocre  01 Arrive in Pernes-Les-Fontaines La Bastide du Bois Bréant  Arrive at the Hôtel l’Hermitage. There’s plenty of time to relax and explore the hotel grounds before dinner (included). CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 02 48KM (30MI) Pernes-Les-Fontaines to Roussillon 99E-Bikes Available Set off along the Canal de Carpentras to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Continue to the pretty village of 99Tandems Available Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, then climb to enjoy views of the Luberon before descending to Roussillon. Stay 99Extra Nights Available at Les Sables d’Ocre for the next two nights. 99City Break Add-Ons 03 At Roussillon OPTIONAL 22KM (14MI) 99Room Upgrades Available Explore Roussillon, officially named as one of the prettiest villages in France, and discover its ochre- 99Single Occupancy red rocks and stone buildings. Head out to nearby Joucas then climb to the famous medieval village of 99Travel Options and Transfers Gordes, or cycle to the former hilltop stronghold of St Saturnin-lès-Apt. 99Various Durations

04 Roussillon to Maubec 49KM (31MI) Take the Ochre Trail to the village of Gargas and visit the Ochre Mines of Bruoux. Follow the cycle path to the medieval town of Apt, then continue to Bonnieux with its lovely château, the ruined castle at 6 NIGHTS FROM Lacoste, and Ménerbes, made famous by author Peter Mayle. Continue to Maubec where you stay at the Bastide du Bois Bréant for two nights. £1525 05 At Maubec OPTIONAL 27KM (17MI) With departures every two days from Take a circular ride past orchards and meadows to the pretty villages of Lagnes, Robion and the 9th May to 4th October 2020 beautiful watermill in Taillades. Or you could take a taxi to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, famous as Van Gogh’s former home, with its delightful Old Town, Roman site and monastery. Available as a 4 night trip from £1275 Available as a 7 night trip from £1635 06 Maubec to Pernes-les-Fontaines 38KM (24MI) Follow lanes through orchards all the way to the medieval town of Le Thor, then pass the ruins of the monastery at Thouzon. Continue to Pernes-les-Fontaines and explore this medieval town before returning to the Hôtel l’Hermitage for dinner, which is included at a local restaurant. Pernes-les-Fontaines 07 Leave Pernes-les-Fontaines Roussillon

Maubec

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PROVECNE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES COTES DU VENTOUX CYCLING • 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 4 evening meals CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Services of your local Headwater Representative HIGHLIGHTS • High Quality Bikes • Gentle cycling between the vineyards of the Côtes-du-Rhône and Ventoux appellations • GPS route directions and maps • Colourful medieval towns and wine villages; lots of wine tasting opportunities • RideWithGPS navigation app • Quiet lanes and tranquil countryside at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail • Luggage transfers between hotels • Headwater Wine Collection Service

ITINERARY BY DAY WHERE YOU’LL STAY 01 Arrive in Pernes-Les-Fontaines Hôtel l’Hermitage  Arrive at the 3-star Hôtel l’Hermitage in time to relax before dinner in a local restaurant (included). Hôtel Montmirail  02 Pernes-les-Fontaines to Vacqueyras 32KM (20MI) Château de Mazan  Set out from Pernes-les-Fontaines with spectacular views of Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail. Then it’s off to the market town of Aubignan – with 14th century ramparts and a pretty CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP old quarter, it’s a perfect lunch spot. Next stop, the wine village of Vacqueyras. You’ll stay at the Hôtel Montmirail for the next two nights, with dinner included. 99Ride Plus Available 99E-Bikes Available 03 At Vacqueyras OPTIONAL 15KM (9.5MI) 99Tandems Available You could cycle past vineyards to the village of Gigondas, famous for its ruby-red wine, or take a taxi 99City Break Add-Ons to explore Orange with its renowned UNESCO sites. Alternatively visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape for wine 99Room Upgrades Available tastings. 99Single Occupancy 04 Vacqueyras to Mazan 25KM (16MI) 99Travel Options and Transfers First stop today is Beaumes-de-Venise with its muscat wines and olive oil museum. Afterwards, cycle 99Various Durations in the shadow of Mont Ventoux to the fortified village of Caromb and then on to Mazan, where you’ll stay in the 18th century Château de Mazan for the next two nights.

05 At Mazan OPTIONAL 28KM (17.5MI) 6 NIGHTS FROM Take a ride to the lively village of Bédoin – gateway to Mont Ventoux for more hardy cyclists! Cycle to the Château Pesquié and stroll through the vines, enjoy a circular tour, or have a picnic in the gardens. £1515 06 Mazan to Pernes-les-Fontaines 26KM (16.5MI) With departures every two days from Follow empty lanes and vineyard tracks to Malemort-du-Comtat before reaching Vénasque, listed as 9th May to 4th October 2020 one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’. Head down to St-Didier for lunch and back via the Old Town of Pernes-les-Fontaines to the Hôtel l’Hermitage. Your last evening meal is included at a local Available as a 4 night trip from £1285 restaurant. Available as a 7 night trip from £1565 07 Leave Pernes-les-Fontaines

Vacqueyras

Mazan

Pernes-les-Fontaines

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PROVENCE

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES VINEYARDS OF VAUCLUSE • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • All breakfasts and 6 evening meals CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Services of your local Headwater Representative HIGHLIGHTS • High Quaility Bikes • Easy interest-packed cycling on Provençal plains and foothills • GPS route directions and maps • Famous Côtes du Rhône vineyards: Gigondas and Vacqueyras • RideWithGPS navigation app • Extensive Roman remains at Vaison-la-Romaine; the UNESCO town of Orange • Luggage transfers between hotels • Headwater Wine Collection Service

ITINERARY BY DAY WHERE YOU’LL STAY 01 Arrive in Pernes-les-Fontaines Hôtel l’Hermitage  Arrive at the Hôtel l’Hermitage in time for dinner at a local restaurant, which is included. Hôtel Les Pins  02 Pernes-les-Fontaines to Bédoin 33KM (20.5MI) Hôtel Burrhus  Head to Saint-Didier, where you can climb to pretty Vénasque with its 12th century baptistry. Pass Hôtel Montmirail  Malemort-du-Comtat and drop down into Mazan, once home to the infamous Marquis de Sade. Climb steadily towards Bédoin and the Hôtel Les Pins, where you’ll stay for two nights, with dinner included. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 03 At Bédoin OPTIONAL 19KM (12MI) 99Ride Plus Available Explore this lively village, the starting point for hardy cyclists climbing to the summit of Mont Ventoux! 99E-Bikes Available Or pedal to the ochre coloured village of Flassan via the Château Pesquié for a stroll in the vines and a 99Tandems Available guided cellar tour. 99Extra Nights Available 04 Bédoin to Vaison-La-Romaine 32KM (20MI) 99City Break Add-Ons Visit the pretty village of Crillon-le-Brave then cross the Carpentras plain to Caromb, a partly fortified 99Room Upgrades Available town. A short, steep ascent takes you to the Lac du Paty. Continuing downhill, it’s flat cycling along 99Single Occupancy country lanes to the Roman garrison town of Vaison-la-Romaine and the Hôtel Burrhus, where you’ll 99Travel Options and Transfers spend the next two nights. 05 At Vaison-la-Romaine Vaison has France’s most extensive Roman remains, including a 6,000-seat theatre and a 2,000-year- old single arch bridge. While you’re here, explore the narrow medieval streets of the Haute Ville. 8 NIGHTS FROM 06 Vaison-la-Romaine to Vacqueyras 25KM (16MI) Pedal via Roaix to cross the Ouvèze River into medieval Séguret – one of the most beautiful villages £1635 in France. There’s a 15th century fountain, a 14th century belfry and a ruined feudal castle with great views. Continue to Vacqueryas and the Hôtel Montmirail, where you stay with dinner included. With departures every two days from 9th May to 4th October 2020 07 At Vacqueyras Head to Orange, just 20km away, to discover two marvellous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Alternatively, explore the wide choice of local vineyards, or relax by the pool.

08 Vacqueyras to Pernes-les-Fontaines 32KM (20MI) Vaison-la-Romaine Cycle through the Côtes du Rhône vineyards and explore Vacqueyras’ wine cellars. Detour to medieval Carpentras, before returning to the Hôtel l’Hermitage in fountain-filled Pernes-les-Fontaines, with dinner included at a local restaurant. Vacqueyras Bédoin 09 Leave Pernes-les-Fontaines

Pernes-les-Fontaines

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e love all the countries we visit, but there’s something special about Italy. We have crafted outstanding cycling holidays in no fewer than seven of Italy’s Wwonderfully diverse regions, each with its own unique geological features, gastronomy and culture. Explore the medieval castles and alpine villages of Trentino as you cycle from the Dolomites to Lake Garda. Or take a gastronomic tour of Piedmont’s famous vineyards, Savoy castles, frescoed chapels and enchanting hilltop towns. From scenic rides through the iconic landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria to cycling through historic wine towns, colourful fishing villages and tiny farming hamlets in Puglia and Sicily, all of our Italian holidays are carefully curated to give you a taste of la dolce vita.

50 CYCLING ITALY

51 Italy REGION BY REGION

TRENTINO

VENETO MILAN LAKE GARDA TURIN PIEDMONT

PIEDMONT

FLORENCE Blessed with an understated natural beauty and boasting world-famous vineyards, sophisticated Piedmont, in northern Italy, is famous for its TUSCANY Savoy castles, frescoed chapels and charming wine villages. Pedal past lush hazelnut hills and verdant pine forests to the wine towns of Barbaresco, Barolo and the chocolate-perfumed streets of Alba – home of the Ferrero factory! REGIONPAGE 54 DPS & MAPS TRENTINO

With the dramatic Dolomites serving as a stunning backdrop to the region, enjoy cycling from this mountain range through alpine villages then the emerald valley of Val Pusteria, passing from one lifestyle and culture to a more UMBRIA Mediterranean feel on the shores of Lake Garda. En route pedal alongside fast-flowing rivers a nd through ancient art cities before arriving in Pedal past the lovely hilltop wine the lively lakeside town of Riva. village of Montefalco and vibrant floral TUSCANY displays towards the pink-stoned jewel PAGE 56 of Assisi, one of Italy’s best-known pilgrimage sites. Immerse yourself Cycle through the timeless and awe-inspiring in Umbria’s hidden treasures; visit landscape of Tuscany to find Romanesque the architectural gems of the Basilica churches, the soaring towers of San Gimignano of St Francis’s ornate frescoes and and hidden alleys full of alabaster workshops the peaceful forest retreat on Monte and secret chapels. For a true taste of Tuscany, Subasio, before discovering its sample the rich Pecorino cheese in Pienza, try prestigious wine cellars. the Vino di Nobile of Montepulciano and unwind PAGE 66 in the baths in Roman Bagno Vignoni. PAGE 62

52 VENETO

TRENTINO Brimming with rich cultural heritage and some of Italy’s finest architecture, this romantic region has long inspired some of the world’s best poets and playwrights. Explore the heart VENETO VENICE of the Venetian countryside, cycle through the PUGLIA Prosecco hills, past historical Venetian villas, cherry orchards and olive groves, on towards Verona, Padua and the iconic ‘Floating City’ of Discover the contrasts of Puglia, from the Venice. Adriatic coastline with its vibrant fishing ports to white-washed hill towns and the conical trulli PAGE 58 houses of Alberobello. Cycle through thousands of ancient olive trees, rolling hills and secluded villages. Explore UNESCO cave dwellings in FLORENCE Matera and the dazzling white city of Ostuni - Puglia is sure to capture your imagination. PAGE 68 UMBRIA REGION DPS ROME ITALY

&PUGLIA MAPS NAPLES

SICILY

Renowned for its Greek temples, Mount Etna, the cobalt blue coastlines and breath-taking Baroque architecture, Sicily is any cyclist’s dream. Ride from the fortress-studded shores of Castellammare Del Golfo towards the Grecian amphitheatre at the archaeological site of Segesta; follow the scenic route to the picturesque fishing village of Marzamemi and all the while enjoying sumptuous regional SICILY cuisine. PAGE 72

53 CYCLING ITALY ∙ PIEDMONT

Neive

Grinzane Cavour

Benevello

Monforte d’Alba

CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3

GASTRONOMIC BAROLO CYCLING

Highlights

Beautifully scenic cycling in the UNESCO vineyards of Piedmont Luxury hotels with panoramic pools; elegant lounges and gourmet cuisine; outstanding wines A mecca for foodies: atmospheric enoteche and two nights at a Michelin-starred restaurant Sun-drenched hamlets and stunning, far-reaching views Historic castles, frescoed chapels, pretty medieval villages

54 CYCLING ITALY ∙

PIEDMONT

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Benevello 05 At Grinzane Cavour The chef at the hotel Relais Villa d’Amelia trained under Marco Explore the UNESCO-recognised castle and indulge in a spot Pierre White so you’re in for a treat at the hotel’s Michelin- of wine-tasting then take a lazy lunch in Bra, where the Slow starred restaurant! Food movement began. For the best views of the region, walk or cycle to La Morra, ‘Balcony of the Langhe’, spread out along 02 Benevello to Neive 35KM (22MI) a panoramic ridge above the vineyards. Visit the lovely Mango, with its beautiful castle rich in WW2 history, then continue to Santo Stefano Belbo, the birthplace 06 Grinzane Cavour to Monforte d’Alba 25KM (16MI) of one of Italy’s greatest writers. On the way to Neive you’ll Cycle to Barolo, an ochre-hued village perched above its pass the famous Moscato vineyards, then you’ll spend two world-famous vineyards, where you can admire Marchesi nights at the Hotel Villa Lauri, with evening meals included at Falletti’s 11th century castle. Then to Monforte d’Alba and Villa a local restaurant. Beccaris, where you’ll spend two nights and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant (included). 03 At Neive Officially one of Italy’s prettiest villages, you can wander 07 At Monforte d’Alba Neive’s cobbled streets that are lined with brightly-coloured Monforte is a lively medieval town with attractive buildings flower boxes. After a morning spent by the panoramic pool, grouped around the cobbled piazza; or visit Dogliani, famous cycle or take a public bus to nearby Barbaresco for lunch and for Dolcetto wine production and dominated by its lovely cheese-tasting in the piazza. Enjoy some wine in the enoteca church. or head across to the spumante capital of Asti, with its quaint 08 Monforte d’Alba to Benevello 35KM (22MI) cobbled centre. A steady climb takes you to a stunning panoramic ridge. 04 Neive to Grinzane Cavour 38KM (24MI) From here, cycle to Serravalle Langhe, a great lunch spot Cycle through the vineyards to Castagnole delle Lanze with belvedere views before returning to your country hotel at before exploring the cobbled streets and bustling piazze of Benevello, with dinner included at the hotel’s Michelin-starred chocolate-perfumed Alba, the home of Ferrero Rocher. You’ll restaurant. spend two nights at Casa Pavesi in Grinzane Cavour, with 09 Leave Benevello evening meals included at a local restaurant.

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation • GPS route directions and maps in a mix of  and  hotels • RideWithGPS navigation app • All breakfasts and gastronomic evening meals • Luggage transfers between hotels • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Headwater Wine Collection Service • High Quality Bikes WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Relais Villa d’Amelia  Casa Pavesi  Hotel Villa Lauri  Villa Beccaris  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Room Upgrades Available 99Ride Plus Available 99Travel Options and Transfers 99Extra Nights Available 99City Break Add-Ons in Turin and Milan 99Single Occupancy 8 NIGHTS FROM £2085 With departures every two days from 1st May to 8th October 2020 Also available as a Bed & Breakfast version from £1685

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C08PD 55 LAKE GARDA

3 + 2 2 + 1 1 CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL ACTIVITY CYCLING Dobbiaco Brunico Bressanone Bolzano Trento

CYCLING CYCLING Flower-filled meadows, sun-soaked vineyards, terraced apple orchards terraced vineyards, sun-soaked meadows, Flower-filled Garda’ of Lake ‘Pearl Riva, Relaxed waterfront towns, cosmopolitan cities, traditional pastel-painted Alpine villages Alpine pastel-painted traditional cosmopolitan cities, towns, waterfront Relaxed and architecture landscapes Unique fusion of Italian and German languages, Highlights CUSTOMER RATING CUSTOMER

LAKE GARDA FROM THE DOLOMITES TO TO THE FROM DOLOMITES

TRENTINO Riva del Garda

ITALY ∙ 56 CYCLING ITALY ∙

TRENTINO

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Dobbiaco downhill ride into Blumau (a good lunch stop) then head into Arrive at the Hotel Santer and spend some time relaxing by Bolzano for two nights at the Hotel Luna Mondschein. the hotel’s pool or spa area. 06 At Bolzano 02 Dobbiaco to Brunico 30KM (18.5MI) Perhaps visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, the Visit Dobbiaco with its beautiful church then follow the milky Gothic cathedral, modern art museum, or the Dominican blue Rienza River as you pass deep green meadows and Church housing a series of 14th century Gothic art. There are looming mountains above. Arriving in Brunico, take the time also three castles and a cable car that takes you out of the city to walk up to its castle and enjoy wonderful views of the town to the small town of Ritten. LAKE GARDA before reaching the Hotel Corso. 07 Bolzano to Trento 64KM (40MI) 03 Brunico to Bressanone 45KM (28.5MI) Stroll along the narrow Adige valley and pass beautiful cliffs Make your way to the head of the Val Pusteria, along the before going on to Egna, which was once a Roman village. Rienza river. Near Rio Pusteria you’ll see the ruins of the Follow the river through a lovely relaxed nature reserve Chiesa di Rio Pusteria as well as the biggest fort in Alto Adige before arriving in bustling Trento where you will spend the – the Forte di Fortezza. Then it’s on to a forested track to meet next two nights in the Grand Hotel Trento. the Isarco River and into Bressanone and the Hotel Krone, 08 At Trento your home for the next two nights. Trento’s highlights include the Piazza del Duomo, the Castello 04 At Bressanone del Buonconsiglio, the historic residence of the Prince- Spend the day exploring the stunning town of Bressanone, Bishops of Trento, and the Via Prepositura, where beautifully then visit the 10th century cathedral, the Renaissance restored pastel buildings date back to Roman times. Bishop’s Palace and the interesting Pharmacy Museum. Or 09 Trento to Riva Del Garda 49KM (30.5MI) cycle back to visit the Abbazia di Novacella and take a trip on As you descend from the mountains you will see the the Plose cable car from nearby Sant’Andrea. shimmering waters of Lake Garda. Writers and artists have 05 Bressanone to Bolzano 42KM (26MI) been coming here for centuries, with Goethe calling it Follow the Isarco River out of Bressanone and take the time ‘a marvel of nature, an enchanting place’. You will stay at the to stop in Chiusa, a medieval town with narrow streets, art Astoria Park Hotel Spa Resort. and craft shops and the impressive Castel Sabbiona. Enjoy a 10 Leave Riva Del Garda YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 9 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • GPS navigation app • All breakfasts • Luggage transfers between hotels • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent • Brixen Card: free transport and museum entries in • High Quality Bikes Bressanone and Bolzano • GPS route directions and maps WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hotel Santer  Hotel Luna Mondschein  Hotel Corso  Grand Hotel Trento  Hotel Krone  Astoria Park Hotel Spa Resort  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Extra Nights Available 9 NIGHTS FROM 99City Break Add-On in Venice or Verona 99Single Occupancy £1455 99Room Upgrades Available 99Travel Options and Transfers With departures every Wednesday from 20th May to 7th October 2020

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TRENTINO AND VENETO TRENTINO

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES BOLZANO, VERONA AND • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of , and  hotels • All breakfasts VENICE RIDE • Management by your local Headwater appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Route directions and maps • Luggage transfers between hotels HIGHLIGHTS • Ferry on Lake Garda • Vibrant orchards, Renaissance architecture and Venetian villas • Admire Lake Garda and stay in Verona, the birthplace of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Visit Venice: Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco Typical accommodation is listed below: Hotel Regina  ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Venezia Trento 01 Arrive in Bolzano Hotel Bonotto  05 Verona to Vicenza 35KM (22MI) or 70KM (44MI) Make your way to Bolzano, the capital of South It’s undulating cycling to the charming town Hotel Porta Palio  Tyrol. Wander through its network of winding of Soave, with its perfectly preserved castle Albergo San Raffaele alleys or pay a visit to its famous Museum of surrounded by vineyards. Then either take Hotel Splendid  Archaeology. the challenging route into the Berici hills for Hotel Venezia  stunning vistas or follow an easier route past the 02 Bolzano to Trento 65KM (41MI) 70KM (44MI) or Villa Valmarana into Vicenza. The old city centre Today you will ride mainly along the Adige CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP is a jewel of Renaissance architecture, with its River, through fragrant orchards and vineyards, Basilica standing as a testament to one of Italy’s 99E-Bikes Available passing through the villages of Ora, Egna and most revered architects, Andrea Palladio. 99Extra nights in Bolzano Salorno. Scenic pathways lead onward to Trento, 99City Break Add-Ons in Venice set in a wide glacial valley guarded by the 06 Vicenza to the Euganean Hills 50KM (31.5MI) 99Single Occupancy towering peaks of the Dolomites. Cycling out of Vicenza you come across the 99Hotel Upgrades Available beautiful Palladian Villa Rotonda. Continue along 03 Trento to Lake Garda 50KM (31.5MI) 99Travel Options the Bacchiglione river towards the Euganean As you pedal along the Adige, you reach hills and the biggest thermal resort in Europe, Rovereto and Mori, which is famous for its where your hotel for the night comes with its quality wines. From here, cycle westwards own thermal pool. to Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy. Pass 7 NIGHTS FROM the picturesque towns of Torbole and Riva 07 Euganean Hills to Mestre/Venice before taking the ferry across Lake Garda. Stay 55KM (34.5MI) £895 overnight in either Peschiera or Desenzano. It’s easy pedalling along the Battaglia Canal to Padua and the largest square in Italy. Continue With departures every Saturday from 04 Lake Garda to Verona past ancient villas to Mestre, Venice’s mainland. 21st March to 17th October 2020 35KM (22MI) 60KM (37.5MI) or The ‘Floating City’ is easily accessible; take time From Lake Garda, we cycle on quiet roads exploring its labyrinth of narrow streets, iconic towards the legendary city of Verona, arguably bridges and famous sights. Overnight in Mestre. one of the most beautiful cities in the Veneto. Bolzano Take time to discover the iconic arena, Basilica 08 Leave Mestre Cycling San Zeno and of course Juliet’s house with its Ferry Trento honey coloured stone balcony. Riva Rovereto

Lake Vicenza Garda Mestre Verona Desenzano Peschiera ermal Venice resort Padova

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VENETO

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES HEART OF VENETO • 7 nights single-centre accommodation in a HHH hotel • All breakfasts and evening meals CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Headwater Wine Collection Service • Stay in a delightful agriturismo – friendly and family-run with pool • Gentle circular routes with more challenging options available WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Tranquil lakes, pretty villages, ancient villas, beautifully green countryside Agriturismo L’Albara HHH ITINERARY BY DAY CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 01 Arrive in Villaganzerla Arrive at the friendly, family-run HHH Agriturismo L’Albara in Villaganzerla, where evening meals are 99E-Bikes Available included throughout your stay. Below is our suggested itinerary for the week but you’re free to pick 99Ride Plus Available and choose when and where you cycle each day. 99Extra Nights Available 99City Break Add-On in Venice or Verona 02 25KM (16MI) Bastia Market 99Single Occupancy Cycle along country lanes and across the Paduan plain to Bastia market. Stroll around the stalls before 99Travel Options and Transfers heading off to the tiny village of Lovolo then return via the delightful hamlet of Monticello.

03 Lake Fimon 38KM (24MI) Head along tranquil valley lanes to Lake Fimon for a picnic by the water’s edge, or lunch at a lakeside trattoria. Cycle around the lake then meander back through lush valleys and rolling hills.

04 Villas and Vineyards 25KM (16MI) Pedal north to the village of Costozza, named after the network of caves in the cliffs above. Loop south to Lumignano, then follow the Strada del Vino (Northern Strada) through vineyards to Castegnero or Nanto.

05 Vicenza and the Villa Rotonda 34KM (21.5MI) Visit UNESCO-recognised Vicenza, where Palladio designed dozens of the city’s buildings, including 7 NIGHTS FROM the Basilica Palladiana in the main square. Return via the Villa Rotonda and its gardens. 06 Free day exploring £1045 Visit one of the great Italian cities, including Venice, Verona or Padua, which are all accessible by train With departures every Saturday from from Vicenza. Alternatively, visit Bassano, home to the famous grappa and its own museum. 9th May to 28th September 2020 07 Southern Strada dei Vini Berici 25KM (16MI) Cycle past Villa Pigafetta-Camerini to Mossano and enjoy the stunning panorama over the Venetian plain. Continue through undulating vineyards to the idyllic Franciscan monastery of San Pancrazio.

08 Leave Villaganzerla Vicenza Villaganzerla

Padua

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VENETO

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES VENETIAN VILLAS & • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HH, HHH and  hotels • All breakfasts and evening meals VINEYARDS CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Totally unspoilt, easy cycling off the tourist trail - great for first timers! • Headwater Wine Collection Service • Characterful, friendly hotels; great Venetian home cooking • Steeped in history: medieval castles, Palladian villas, Roman roads WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Agriturismo Il Feudo HH ITINERARY BY DAY Belvedere Resort ai Colli  01 Arrive in Cortelà Villa Lussana  Arrive at the Agriturismo Il Feudo, run by Gabriella and Alessandro, in time for dinner (included). Agriturismo L’Albara ­ HHH

02 Cortelà to Galzignano 37KM (23.5MI) Pedal along the canal-side path to medieval Este with its pastel, arcaded buildings and CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 14th century castle. Continue on to Monselice and its medieval castle then follow the canal 99E-Bikes Available past the 19th century Villa Italia. You stay at the Belvedere Resort ai Colli for two nights, 99Ride Plus Available with dinner included. 99Extra Nights Available 03 At Galzignano 99City Break Add-On in Venice or Verona Head over to Arquà Petrarca, unchanged since the 1370s when Petrarch lived here. Visit his well- 99Single Occupancy preserved house, then pedal through vineyards to the Villa Barbarigo and its 17th century garden. 99Room Upgrades Available 99Travel Options and Transfers 04 Galzignano to Teolo 33KM (20.5M) Cycle through swaying vines and taste wine in the charming village of Battaglia. Carry on through the spa town of Montegrotto Terme then on to the pre-Palladian villa at Luvigliano. Stay two nights at the Villa Lussana, with your evening meals included. 05 At Teolo Explore Roman Teolo and its many 15th century palazzo and formal gardens, then take a walk in the 8 NIGHTS FROM Euganean Hills or catch the bus into Padua. For a longer day out, take the bus or train to Italy’s most romantic city, Venice. £1215 06 Teolo to Villaganzerla 38KM (24MI) With departures every two days from Make your way through the Euganean Hills to the medieval castle at San Martino and then on to Cervarese 9th May to 28th September 2020 Santa Croce for lunch. From here, it’s into wine country once more, as you reach Villaganzerla and the Agriturismo L’Albara. You spend two nights here with dinner included. 07 At Villaganzerla Laze around by the pool or head out to discover Vicenza. Take the cycle path past the famous Villa La Villaganzerla Rotonda and explore “Venice of the Terra Firma” with its marvellous Palladian architecture.

08 Villaganzerla to Cortelà 40KM (25MI) Follow the Strada del Tai Rosso wine road which links a string of pretty villages. This is the Teolo only area outside of Hungary to grow the red Tocai grape. Then it’s out across the plain to reach Vo’ Galzignano Vecchio before returning to the Agriturismo Il Feudo. Cortelà 09 Leave Cortelà

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VENETO

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES TASTE OF PROSECCO • 7 nights single-centre accommodation in a  hotel • All breakfasts CYCLING • Management by your local Headwater- appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • 2 Cycling transfers • Cycling along the spectacular Prosecco Route, through the renowned ‘pearl wine’ vineyards • 3 Wine tastings • Taste Italy’s award-winning bubbles and visit famous local producers • 1 Grappa tasting • Explore charming medieval villages, fairy-tale castles and aristocratic villas • 1 Museum entrance ticket

ITINERARY BY DAY WHERE YOU’LL STAY 01 Arrive in Follina Hotel dei Chiostri  Arrive at the charming town of Follina and the  Hotel dei Chiostri, your accommodation for the whole duration of the holiday. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 02 46KM (28.5MI) Panoramic tour 99E-Bikes Available Follow the cycle route around the lakes Revine and Santa Maria towards Rolle, a beautiful village 99Extra nights Available surrounded by vineyards. Enjoy your first wine tasting (included), before descending among the 99City Break Add-On in Treviso, Venice Prosecco vineyards to Miane. and Verona 03 Follina to Bassano del Grappa 55KM (34MI) 99Single occupancy Ride towards Vidor where you cross the river Piave, once the scene of a great battle during WWI. Reach 99Room upgrades Available Asolo, a picturesque medieval village known as “the city of a hundred horizons”. Afterwards, descend 99Half Board Upgrade Available to Bassano Del Grappa to visit the Poli Grappa museum and enjoy a Grappa tasting (included) before 99Optional  or  hotel crossing the famous bridge dedicated to the Alpini troops. Return transfer to the hotel provided. 99Travel Options and Transfers 99Optional guide (call for prices) 04 Prosecco hills loop 41KM (25.5MI) Today, you cycle across the Prosecco hills, the very heart of Italy’s pearl wine culture. Continue up towards Valdobbiadene, better known as the capital of the Prosecco, along with Conegliano, and ride to Guia to sample their award-winning wine at a local winery (included). On the way back you can enjoy 7 NIGHTS FROM breath-taking views of the Santo Stefano vineyards and break at the famous Osteria senz‘Oste where you can taste some of the local specialities. £1265 05 Free Day Visit Treviso and have a stroll in the central square Piazza Dei Signori or the enchanted city of Venice, With departures every Sunday from both of which are accessible by train from Conegliano. 12th April to 11th October 2020

06 Castles loop 44KM (27.5MI) Cycle to Cison Valmarino, known as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, before following the route towards the Castello of San Salvatore in Susegana. Here, enjoy wine and local produce tasting at the Revine Tenute Caldella estate, owned by the former professional cyclist Flavio Vanzella, who was time trial Vittorio Veneto world champion and yellow jersey at the Tour de France. Your final stretch takes you to the castle in Follina Collalto. Transfer back to the hotel provided. Valdobbiadene

07 Valleys and Vineyards loop 44KM (27.5MI) Susegana Starting from Follina, cycle to Vittorio Veneto and after crossing the beautiful historical city centre, continue on a panoramic uphill cycle towards Corbanese, surrounded by vineyards and green hills.

08 Leave Follina Bassano del Grappa

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CYCLING Warm and welcoming agriturismo - the best of Italian hospitality Warm Delicious classic Tuscan cuisine and cookery class cuisine and cookery Tuscan Delicious classic of Montepulciano and Pienza Visit the wine and cheese towns Fabulous local insight into traditional Tuscan life: the food, the wine, the culture the wine, the food, life: Tuscan insight into traditional local Fabulous d’Orcia Val the UNESCO across cycling Exhilarating Highlights

CUSTOMER RATING CUSTOMER A TASTE OF TUSCANY CYCLING OF TUSCANY A TASTE

∙ TUSCANY

ITALY 62 CYCLING ITALY ∙

TUSCANY

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Chianciano Terme the best restaurants in Italy, La Frateria – a beautiful convent Arrive at the family run Agriturismo La Pietriccia. Enjoy a started by St Francis in 1212. Head back to your hotel in time stroll in the old town before your evening briefing and the first for your dinner. of many superb dinners (included). 05 Afternoon cookery course 02 The Lakes Circuit 41KM (26MI) Spend the day relaxing or walk into Chianciano Vecchia to Start the week with mountain views and forest tracks as you see the Etruscan Museum of Chianciano Terme. On your way head to the small town of Montallese and on to Lake Chiusi. back to the hotel you could use your Thermal Spa voucher After a lunch-break take the long distance path of Sentiero and relax in the healing waters. In the afternoon begin your della Bonifica to the Lake of Montepulciano, a nature reserve cookery class where you will learn classic Italian techniques ideal for bird-watching before heading back to the agriturismo and eat the meal you prepare for dinner. in time for dinner. 06 Montepulciano circle 36KM (22MI) 03 Radicofani 34KM (21MI) Cycle through acres of vineyards on your way to You will be transferred to Radicofani, the highest point Montepulciano and stop to take in views of the famous Mount in the Val d’Orca, for incredible views. From here cycle to Amiata. Explore Montepulciano’s winding medieval streets Contignano, famous for its pecorino cheese and a perfect spot before cycling back to Chianciano. for lunch before a downhill stretch through the forest and 07 Pienza and Bagno Vignoni 35KM (22MI) past the beautiful private gardens of La Foce. Then back to After a short transfer to Pienza, you can explore the town the agriturismo in time for wine tasting in the old town before known for being the cheese capital of Italy. Pick up a porchetta dinner. sandwich before you ride back downhill to cross the plains 04 Sarteano loop 39KM (24MI) of Val d’Orcia or take a short detour to Bagno Vignoni and Descend along country tracks passing a truffle-growing area its Roman baths and sulphur springs. Follow a long straight before crossing the Astrone stream. Cycle through beautiful Roman road then cross the valley to climb into Chianciano. valleys to the medieval town of Sarteano before carrying on 08 Leave Chianciano Terme to Cetona, then climb to Mondo X where you can find one of

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 7 nights single-centre accommodation in a HHH hotel • RideWithGPS navigation app • All breakfasts and 4-course evening meals • Wine, olive oil and local produce tasting • Management by your local hotelier • 1 Spa entrance • High Quality Mountain Bikes • 1 cookery class • GPS route directions and maps WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Agriturismo La Pietriccia HHH CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Single Occupancy 99City Break Add-On in Rome 99Travel Options and Transfers

7 NIGHTS FROM

Pienza Montepulciano £1265 Lago di Bagno Vignoni With departures every Saturday from Chanciano Terme Chiusi Sarteano 18th April to 24th October 2020 Cetona

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TUSCANY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES SECRETS OF • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 6 evening meals SAN GIMIGNANO CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Exhilarating cycling through totally unspoilt countryside • Headwater Wine Collection Service • San Gimignano’s soaring towers; Volterra’s Etruscan treasures; great cities of Florence, Pisa & Siena • Fabulous hotels, all with stunning pools WHERE YOU’LL STAY Park Hotel Le Fonti  ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Certaldo  01 Arrive in Volterra Relais Della Rovere  Arrive at the Park Hotel Le Fonti in Volterra. There’s time to wander round its myriad of cobbled alleys Hotel Pescille  and hidden squares before dinner.

02 Volterra to Certaldo 35KM (22MI) CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Down into the Era Valley before climbing to pretty Castagno and the well-preserved spa town of 99E-Bikes Available Gambassi Terme, with its 12th century church and gardens. Pick up the Via Francigena to freewheel 99Ride Plus Available down to medieval Certaldo and your hotel. You spend the next two nights at the Hotel Certaldo. 99Extra Nights Available 03 At Certaldo 99City Break Add-Ons in Florence, Relax by the pool today, or cycle past orchards and vines to fully discover Certaldo – take the funicular Siena and Pisa to Certaldo Alto for spectacular views across the Val d’Elsa. Then stop by the shops, bars and 99Room Upgrades Available restaurants in Certaldo Basso watching the world walk past. 99Travel Options and Transfers 99Various Durations 04 Certaldo to Colle di Val d’Elsa 28KM (17.5MI) Explore the panoramic wine country between Certaldo and Colle di Val d’Elsa, following the official, mainly off-road, Chianti Wine Route. Lunch in Poggibonsi and visit the unfinished 15th century fortress 8 NIGHTS FROM before reaching the Relais Della Rovere for the next two nights (dinner included). 05 At Colle di Val d’Elsa £1455 Explore the medieval town, take the bus to Siena or Florence, visit the town of Monteriggioni, or laze With departures every two days from by the hotel’s pool. 1st May to 8th October 2020 06 Colle di Val d’Elsa to Pescille 43KM (26.5MI) Also availble as a 10 night trip from £1675 A gradual climb takes you up to Casole d’Elsa with its 12th century church and its impressive fortress. Also availble as Bed and Breakfast from £1255 Then wind gently up to Pescille, with a backdrop of the medieval towers of San Gimignano, to reach the Hotel Pescille. You stay here for two nights with dinner included at a local restaurant.

07 At Pescille Certaldo San Gimignano is a short cycle away – explore its myriad narrow streets and many hidden cobbled squares before returning to your hotel for a dip in the pool. San Gimignano 08 Pescille to Volterra 39KM (24MI) Ride to San Gimignano before climbing up through classic Tuscan landscapes, then there’s a descent into Pescille the Era Valley and a final climb to Volterra and back to the Park Hotel Le Fonti for dinner (included). 09 Leave Volterra Colle di Val d’Elsa Volterra 64 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C08TY CYCLING ITALY NEW ∙

TUSCANY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING IN TUSCANY: • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts PISA TO FLORENCE • Management by your local Headwater appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Route directions and maps • Luggage transfers between hotels HIGHLIGHTS • Famous spa towns, world-class art museums and fresco-decorated churches WHERE YOU’LL STAY • The Renaisance town of Lucca, leaning tower of Pisa and Ponte Vecchio in Florence • Narrow cobbled streets, lively piazze, stunning Tuscan landscapes Typical accommodation is listed below: Grand Hotel Bonanno  Hotel San Marco  ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Parma Oriente  01 Arrive In Pisa Hotel Londra  Make your way to Pisa. This UNESCO World Heritage city is famous for its iconic leaning tower, but it is also home to beautiful Renaissance piazze, Romanesque buildings and renowned art galleries. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 02 Pisa to Lucca 30KM (19MI) or 45KM (28MI) 99E-Bikes Available Pedal northwards along the beautiful River Serchio. If you want to extend your route, cycle towards 99Extra Nights in Florence Lake Massaciuccoli before reaching the Renaissance town of Lucca. Encircled by its perfectly 99City Break Add-ons in Pisa preserved city walls, the town is also the birthplace of the great composer, Puccini and concerts are 99Single Occupancy held here every night in his honour. 99Travel Options 03 Lucca to Montecatini Terme 45KM (28MI) Cycle towards Collodi and the town of Pescia. In Collodi, where the author of Pinocchio spent his childhood, you can visit the famous Pinocchio’s Park and the aristocratic Villa Garzoni. In Pescia, stroll around the town, discovering churches, mansions and its quaint local flower market, before heading to Montecatini Terme.

04 At Montecatini Terme OPTIONAL 60KM (37.5MI) Enjoy a free day to explore one of the most famous spa towns in Europe. Take the cable-railway to the top of the hill or stroll around the Old Town. Alternatively, cycle past olive groves, vineyards and villas 7 NIGHTS FROM to Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace, where there is a museum dedicated to the artist.

05 50KM (31MI) 65KM (40MI) Montecatini Terme to Florence or £875 You have two choices today; either cycle directly from Montecatini, or take a short train transfer to Pistoia, a city rich in Romanesque and Renaissance monuments, boasting one of the most evocative With departures every Saturday from squares in Italy: Piazza del Duomo. From here, cycle through the Tuscan flatland to Florence. 28st March to 10th October 2020 06 At Florence Enjoy a free day in Florence. Meander down its enchanting streets, marvel at the cathedral or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte for spectacular views. The historical city centre is surprisingly small, but incredibly rich in detail, architecture and monuments. Pistoia 07 Florence to Empoli and Pisa 40KM (25MI) 65KM (41MI) Montecatini or Massaciuccoli Today you can choose to either pedal directly from Florence to Empoli and take a train to Pisa or take Lake Lucca a train from Florence to Empoli and ride to Pisa along the picturesque river Arno. Arrive in Pisa with time to enjoy this lively, friendly city. Vinci Pisa Florence Empoli 08 Leave Pisa

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3 + 2 2 + 1 1 CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL ACTIVITY CYCLING

CYCLING All hotels serve superb cuisine and amazing-value wines, most with a swimming pool most with wines, superb cuisine and amazing-value hotels serve All and hamlets villages Beautiful hilltop Unspoilt cycling: olives, sunflowers, vineyards and apricot orchards and apricot orchards vineyards sunflowers, olives, Unspoilt cycling: landscapes sun-drenched colours, soft terracotta summer climate, Gorgeous Highlights Montefalco medieval Perugia, Etruscan Spello, gorgeous the jewel in the Umbrian crown, Assisi,

OF UMBRIA CYCLING THE WINE TRAILS THE CYCLING CUSTOMER RATING CUSTOMER

UMBRIA

ITALY ∙ 66 CYCLING ITALY ∙

UMBRIA

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Spello theatre, and the 2nd century Roman temple and baths. Arrive at Albergo La Bastiglia in picturesque Spello, in time for Alternatively, cycle to Ceralto Castle. dinner (included). 06 Marcellano to Torgiano 38KM (23.5MI) 02 Spello to Spoleto 50KM (31.5MI) Arrive at the medieval village of Gualdo Cattaneo with its Great views as you cycle along the Teverone Valley before a imposing 15th century castle and 13th century crypt, then short climb to hilltop Trevi, dating back to Roman times and descend to the old wine town of Torgiano, famous for its capital of the Umbrian olive oil industry. Then, on past ancient Lungarotti cellars. You stay at the Hotel Al Grappolo d’Oro for San Giacomo to the Hotel Charleston, where you stay for two two nights, with dinner included at a local restaurant. night. 07 At Torgiano 03 At Spoleto Visit the wine and olive oil museum in Torgiano’s centro Spoleto has magnificent architecture, including a Roman arch, storico. Or head to Perugia, famous for one of Italy’s finest art 10th century church, 12th century Duomo and 14th century collections. Alternatively, cycle to the local ceramics capital, aqueduct. The castle here is a former prison and now houses Deruta. an impressive art museum. 08 Torgiano to Spello 43KM (27MI) 04 Spoleto to Marcellano 44KM (27.5MI) Cycle along the ‘Wine and Art Road’ to Brufa and on through Climb up to Montefalco, ‘the Balcony of Umbria’, for wine the Chiascio Valley. Visit Assisi – the beautiful Piazza del tasting, magnificent views and beautiful medieval streets. Comune, the 13th century Giotto frescoes and the UNESCO- Then continue to Marcellano and the Grand Relais Laurenti, recognised St Francis’ Basilica – before cycling on along the where you stay for two nights, with dinner included. Via degli Ulivi back to Albergo La Bastiglia in time for dinner 05 At Marcellano (included). The Roman walled town of Bevagna is home to the 13th 09 Leave Spello century Gothic Palazzo dei Consoli, the golden medieval

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 8 nights accommodation in a mix of • GPS route directions and maps  and  hotels • RideWithGPS navigation app • All breakfasts and 6 evening meals • Luggage transfers between hotels • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Headwater Wine Collection Service • High Quality Bikes WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Albergo La Bastiglia  Grand Relais Laurenti  Hotel Charleston  Hotel Al Grappolo d’Oro  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Single Occupancy 99Ride Plus Available 99Room Upgrades Available 99Extra Nights Available 99Travel Options and Transfers 99City Break Add-On in Perugia or Rome 99Various Durations

Torgiano Spello 8 NIGHTS FROM £1355 Marcellano With departures every two days from 1st May to 8th October 2020 Also available as a 10 night trip from £1605

Spoleto

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PUGLIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING THE HEEL OF ITALY • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  and HHH hotels • All breakfasts CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Managed by a Headwater appointed agent • High Quality Bikes HIGHLIGHTS • Route directions and maps • Matera’s ancient cave dwellings and Alberobello’s fairy-tale trulli houses • Luggage transfers between hotels • Olive groves, towering limestone cliffs and Roman amphitheatres • Train transfer from Ostuni to Lecce on day 4 • The white city of Ostuni, the majestic castle of Otranto and Baroque Lecce WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Typical accommodation is listed below: Hotel Sassi  01 Arrive in Matera Trullidea HHH Make your way to Matera, 2019’s European Capital of Culture, and one of the oldest inhabited human Hotel Incanto  settlements in the world. Joli Park Hotel 02 Matera to Alberobello 70KM (44MI) Hotel Terminal  On leaving Matera, ride past its beautiful UNESCO recognised honey-coloured stone houses. Called Hotel Albania  ‘Sassi’, these dwellings have been housing residents for the past 9,000 years. From one famous world Hotel Eos  heritage site to another, head towards Alberobello, where you can admire its distinctive trulli houses made from local limestone. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 03 Alberobello to Ostuni 55KM (34.5MI) 99E-Bikes Available Cycle through the lush Valle d’Itria, passing more white-tipped trulli houses on the way. Boasting 99City Break Add-Ons in Matera and Lecce beautiful coastal views, the route takes you through the famous wine town of Locorotondo, regarded 99Hotel Upgrades Available as one of Italy’s most stunning villages. After sampling some of the local sparkling white wine, 99Single Occupancy continue to the white city of Ostuni - so called for the dazzling effect of its whitewashed houses. 99Travel Options and Transfers 04 Ostuni/Lecce to Gallipoli 50KM (31.5MI) Take a train to the fascinating Baroque town of Lecce. From here cycle deep into the Salentinian countryside before approaching the Ionian coast. Here you will reach Gallipolli, known as the ‘Ionian Pearl’ with its Old Town situated on a rocky island.

05 Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca 50KM (31.5MI) Cycle towards the most southerly point of Salento at Santa Maria di Leuca, where the crystal waters 7 NIGHTS FROM of the Ionian and Adriatic Sea meet. This village is home to one of the most important lighthouses in Italy, as well as numerous villas built at the turn of the century. £895 06 Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto 50KM (31.5MI) With departures on selected dates from Pedal along the south coast of the Adriatic Sea, stopping off at the famous Grotta Zinzulusa and the 21st March to 24th October 2020 thermal baths of Santa Cesarea Terme. Your final destination is Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy wtih a stunning cathedral and Aragonese castle.

07 Otranto to Lecce 55KM (34.5MI) Bari Adriatic Sea We follow the shoreline through olive groves to the Baroque metropolis of Lecce. Known as the ITALY ‘Florence of the South’, Lecce is home to over 30 churches, an amphitheatre and a Roman theatre Alberobello Matera Ostuni dating back to Emperor Augustus. Brindisi

08 Leave Lecce Lecce BASILICATA PUGLIA

Gulf of Taranto Otranto Gallipoli

Santa Maria di Leuca Ionian Sea 68 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C07PG CYCLING ITALY NEW ∙

PUGLIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES MATERA TO MONOPOLI • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH,  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 1 evening meal CYCLING • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS Route directions and maps • RideWithGPS navigation app HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Two nights in the UNESCO town of Matera • Cycling through the Alta Murgia National Park, the largest natural park in Italy WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Charming hotels, all full of character Palazzo Viceconte  B&B Le Stanze del Console  ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Montegusto HHH 01 Arrive in Matera Maré Resort  Arrive in Matera, one of the oldest cities in the world, with two nights at Palazzo Viceconte. Hotel Imago  Albergo Diffuso  02 Free day exploring Enjoy the stone city of Matera, named the European Capital of Culture in 2019. Situated in the Basilicata Region, stroll through its beautiful Palaeolithic cave dwellings, intricate cathedrals and CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP museums. 99E-Bikes Available 99Room Upgrades 03 Matera to Gravina 43KM (26.5MI) 99Tandems Available Available Leave Matera and cycle a few kilometres to enter the beautiful region of Puglia. Ride on gentle slopes 99Extra Nights Available 99Travel Options and towards Gravina, one of the most important Roman cities along the Appian Way, and Altamura, located 99City Break Add-Ons Transfers on the hills of the Murge plateau. Overnight at B&B Le Stanze del Console. 99Single Occupancy 99Various Durations

04 Gravina to Castel del Monte 42KM (26MI) Today, our route winds across the largest natural park in Italy – the Alta Murgia National Park. Our final destination is an iconic castle in the southern region, commissioned by Frederick II, with its unique octagonal structure making it worthy of the UNESCO World Heritage list. Enjoy an overnight 7 NIGHTS FROM stay at Hotel Montegusto with dinner included. 05 Castel del Monte to Trani 43KM (26.5MI) £1295 Today’s ride continues through the Alta Murgia National Park, with a pleasant descent towards the With departures on selected Mondays, adriatic Sea and Trani, one of the oldest and liveliest cities on the Apulian coast. Known as the “Pearl Wednesdays and Saturdays from of Pugila”, the city is characterised by its breath-taking cathedral that sits right on the water’s edge. 21st March to 24th October 2020. Afterwards, wander around its Jewish quarter, hidden between its glossy limestone streets, ending the night at the Maré Resort. Also available as a 14 night trip from £2165

06 Trani to Bari 55KM (34MI) Explore the historic town centres of Bisceglie, Molfetta and Giovinazzo, admiring their Romanesque style architecture. Arrive in Bari, a bustling, coral-fringed port town, and ride along one of the longest Trani promenades in the Mediterranean to the old city. Overnight at Hotel Imago. Bari 07 Bari to Monopoli 50KM (31MI) Castel del Monte Ride towards the metropolitan city of Mola and continue on a narrow path between its towering fortified castle and the Adriatic Sea. Reaching the turquoise shores of Polignano a Mare, you move on Monopoli through the historical centre towards Monopoli’s picturesque harbour. End your trip with an overnight stay at traditional Albergo Diffuso. Gravina 08 Leave Monopoli Matera

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CYCLING Unique hotels including two nights in a trullo house in UNESCO Alberobello house in UNESCO Unique hotels including two nights in a trullo wines excellent cuisine and Mediterranean Traditional Beautifully unspoilt region, full of contrasts and interest-packed cycling and interest-packed of contrasts full unspoilt region, Beautifully hamlets farming white sandy beaches and tiny colourful fishing villages, Historic wine towns, Highlights

CUSTOMER RATING CUSTOMER CONTRASTS OF PUGLIA CYCLING CONTRASTS

PUGLIA

ITALY ∙ 70 CYCLING ITALY ∙

PUGLIA

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Conversano You’ll spend the next two nights at the Masseria Salamina, Arrive at the Relais Corte Altavilla. There’s time to explore the with your evening meals included. historic town before choosing one of the many restaurants for 05 At Pezze di Greco dinner (payable locally). Relax by the hotel’s pool, or cycle to the nearby beach. For the 02 Conversano to Alberobello 39KM/24.5MI more energetic, ride to charming Ostuni whose whitewashed Pedal through the rolling hills of the Valle d’Itria then stop houses are neatly piled on hills rich in olive groves and off in the little towns of Putignano and Noci to view their vineyards. whitewashed houses. Alberobello is home to trulli houses, 06 Pezze di Greco to Monopoli 37KM/23.5MI the architectural symbol of the region. On arrival at Trullidea Head back to the Adriatic coast on a flat route past the you’ll be shown to your own private trullo house. You stay fishing village of Savelletri, a perfect stop for a seafood lunch. here for two nights. Continue past the archaeological site of Egnazia, dating as far 03 At Alberobello back as 4BC on your way to the Albergo Diffuso, for your last Explore the narrow streets and kitsch souvenir shops, or two nights. visit the Museo del Territorio. Alternatively, cycle into the Itria 07 At Monopoli Valley to visit stunning Locorotondo, with its panoramic views Today’s route takes you along the stunning coastline all across the valley. Continue on to Martina Franca, with its the way to the beautiful Polignano a Mare. Take the time to beautiful Baroque architecture and stunning palazzi. explore this vibrant fishing village before continuing to the 04 Alberobello to Pezze di Greco 49KM/30.5MI picturesque village of San Vito with its multi-coloured boats. Spend this morning cycling along beautiful undulating country Head back to Monopoli and enjoy an aperitivo in the old town’s lanes before enjoying a long downhill run with panoramic square watching the world walk past. views of the Adriatic coastline and the lower fertile plains. 08 Leave Monopoli YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of • High Quality Bikes HHH,  and  hotels • GPS route directions and maps • All breakfasts and 2 evening meals • RideWithGPS navigation app • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent • Luggage transfers between hotels WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Relais Corte Altavilla  Masseria Salamina  Trullidea HHH Albergo Diffuso  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Single Occupancy 99Tandems Available 99Room Upgrades Available 99Extra Nights Available 99Travel Options and Transfers 99City Break Add-On in Bari 99Various Durations

Conversano Monopoli 7 NIGHTS FROM £1265 With departures on selected Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 21st March to 24th October 2020 Also available as a 10 night trip from £1765 Pezze di Greco Alberobello Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C07PU 71 CYCLING ITALY NEW ∙

SICILY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES SECRETS OF SICILY CYCLING • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HH, HHH,  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 1 evening meal CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Management by your local Headwater- appointed agent HIGHLIGHTS • High Quality Bikes • Visit Baroque churches, charming seaside towns and bustling food markets • GPS route directions and maps • Cobalt blue seas, coral-lined grottos and unspoilt sandy beaches • RideWithGPS navigation app • Superb historical monuments: Segesta Amphitheatre, Selinunte Archaeological Park • Luggage transfers between hotels

WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Sopra le Mura Boutique Hotel  01 Arrive in Castellammare del Golfo Agriturismo Arcudaci HHH Arrive at the Sopra le Mura Boutique Hotel on the glittering coastlines of Castellammare del Golfo, one Hotel Andrea - Palazzo Platamone  of Sicily’s most picturesque seaside towns. Hotel Carmine  02 Castellammare del Golfo to Bruca 24KM (15MI) Mahara Hotel  From the fortress-studded shores of Castellammare Del Golfo, we reach the archaeological site of B&B Bahari Selinunte HH Segesta. After admiring its Grecian temple and amphitheatre, we end the day at Agriturismo Arcudaci, in San Mauro La Bruca – a quaint hillside town overlooking Pisciotta with dinner included. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 03 Bruca to Trapani 43KM (26.5MI) 99E-Bikes Available Leaving Bruca’s olive covered foothills, you’ll cycle inland towards Trapani. Following an afternoon 99Extra Nights Available exploring its intricate Baroque churches and shops that sell hand harvested sea salt, you’ll stay two 99City Break Add-On in Palermo nights at the Hotel Andrea – Palazzo Platamone. 99Single Occupancy 04 Free day exploring 99Room Upgrades Available Take a cable car to the picturesque medieval village of Erice overlooking the Salt Pans or ride the 99Travel Options and Transfers hydrofoil to enjoy an afternoon of snorkelling around Favignana’s coral reefs.

05 Trapani to Marsala 52KM (32MI) Cycle at a relaxed pace with views overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and flow mills. Make a pit stop in Mozia, an ancient town on San Pantaleo Island off the west coast of Sicily and visit its striking archaeological ruins. A short ride away, we reach Marsala where the fortified Marsala wine originates 7 NIGHTS FROM from. Overnight stay at Hotel Carmine.

06 Marsala to Mazara del Vallo 35KM (22MI)

Visit Marsala’s local wineries and explore the town at your own leisure. Or you can choose an optional £1155 boat tour around the breath-taking Egadi Islands. Next, cycle to Mazara del Vallo, home of the bronze With departures on selected Saturdays from statue – the “Dancing Satyr”. Once you’ve soaked up the Arab architecture, enjoy a one night stay in 4th April to 24th October 2020 the Mahara Hotel.

07 Mazara del Vallo to Selinunte 41KM (25MI) Cycle along the coast and admire the views of the Aegadi Islands before travelling inwards towards Trapani Castellammare del Golfo vineyards and aromatic olive groves. Afterwards visit Selinunte, one of the largest archaeological Bruca parks in Europe. With 7 Grecian temples spanning 1,300 meters east, this site is a true architectural gem. Spend an overnight stay at B&B Bahari Selinunte. 08 Leave Selinunte Marsala

Mazara del Vallo Selinunte

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SICILY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING THROUGH • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • All breakfasts and 3 evening meals BAROQUE SICILY • Management by your local Headwater- appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • RideWithGPS navigation app • Luggage transfers between hotels • Beautiful, unspoilt coastlines; charming fishing villages; rich fertile valleys • Authentic Baroque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Sites • Superb regional food and excellent Nero D’Avola wines WHERE YOU’LL STAY San Giorgio Palace  ITINERARY BY DAY Ferro Hotel  Torre Dantona  01 Arrive in Ragusa Portopalo Suite  Arrive at the  San Giorgio Palace in Ragusa. Villa Favorita  Grand Albergo Alfeo  02 Ragusa to Modica 41KM (26MI) Visit UNESCO Ragusa Ibla, with its Baroque architecture, then either cycle through rich valleys of cacti and pomegranate orchards to Modica Bassa. Or climb above Modica to Cava d’Ispica - a verdant gorge CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP of caves and grottos. Stay at the Ferro Hotel for the next two nights. 99E-Bikes Available 03 At Modica 99Extra Nights Available The UNESCO-listed city of Modica has 29 churches, including two grand Baroque cathedrals. Stop by 99City Break Add-On in Catania the cafes and restaurants, and try the world-famous chocolate at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto. 99Single Occupancy 04 Modica to Marina Di Modica 40KM (25MI) 99Room Upgrades Available Head to the town of Scicli - instantly recognisable from the set of Inspector Montalbano. Visit the 99Travel Options and Transfers magnificent Baroque Church of San Matteo, perched high above the town, before making your way to the pretty fishing village of Sampieri. Continue to Marina di Modica and the Torre Dantona Hotel for dinner.

05 Marina Di Modica to Portopalo Di Capo Passero 52KM (32MI) Ride along the coast to Pozzallo and its four Blue Flag beaches, before cycling through a network of saltwater lagoons; rich in birdlife, there’s a chance of spotting flamingos, herons or storks. Continue to 8 NIGHTS FROM Sicily’s southernmost point where the Ionian sea meets the Med. Stay at the Portopalo Suite. 06 Portopalo Di Capo Passero to Noto 47KM (29MI) £1595 Cycle to the ancient fishing village of Marzamemi, once the heart of Sicily’s tuna fishing industry. Then wind your way inland through olive groves, vineyards, almond trees, and aromatic citrus orchards to With departures on selected Saturdays from Noto. Stay at the Villa Favorita for the next two nights, with dinner included. 4th April to 24th October 2020 07 At Noto Noto’s UNESCO World Heritage town centre was rebuilt after the 17th century earthquake and is considered a Baroque masterpiece. Explore its historic streets or cycle to the nearby seaside resort of Lido di Noto for a lazy day on the beach. Siracusa

08 Noto to Siracusa 53KM (33MI) Pedal to the wine town of Avola - red wine from the famous Nero D’Avola grape is made here - then Ragusa pick up a superb coastal route through the Plemmirio Marine Nature Reserve before a freewheel to Noto Modica the stunning city of Siracusa, a treasure trove of architecture. Overnight at the Grand Albergo Alfeo. Portopalo di 09 Leave Siracusa Capo Passero Marina di Modica

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amous for beach holidays, paella and sangria, Spain has so much more to offer. Yes, many of our holidays in Spain feature beaches (and swimming pools in Fmany hotels) but our choices are far from the madding crowd. Enjoy the contrasts in Catalunya as you cycle along pretty, coastal paths, through lush green valleys, ancient cork and pine forests and sun-drenched villages off the tourist trail. Not to mention the Romanesque churches in Pals, medieval architecture in Toroella de Montgrí and stunning Girona the capital city of the region. Our holiday in Andalucía will give you a real flavour of the essence of real Spain with typical white villages and the stunning cities of Seville and Cádiz. Don’t forget to try the delicious “Jerez” (sherry) as you ride through the town of Jerez towards Cádiz, the oldest city in Western Europe. Take an epic journey on the world-famous UNESCO heritage pilgrims’ route – the Camino de Santiago, taking you from impressive León through the Galician countryside to the ultimate destination of your pilgrims’ journey; Santiago de Compostela, the final resting place of St James. Away from the mainland discover the delights of Mallorca, cycle through almond groves, picturesque villages and past disused windmills. Enjoy spectacular views of the Tramuntana mountain range and finish by visiting historic Alcúdia and the pretty seafront town of Pollença.

74 CYCLING SPAIN

75 Spain REGION BY REGION

GALICIA SANTIAGO DE LEON COMPOSTELA

REGION DPS & MAPS

SEVILLE

76 GALICIA CATALUNYA

Cycle one of the world’s most spectacular From picture perfect sandy coves, impressive UNESCO pilgrimage routes and embrace its rocky coastlines and natural harbours to breath-taking scenery that abounds along medieval narrow cobbled streets, restored it – from poppy-sprinkled wheat fields and archways and impressive Gothic churches, orchid-rich water meadows to pine-scented Catalunya’s tranquil scenes have inspired woodland. An unmissable long-distance trail, artists such as Salvador Dali. Soak up the savour Galicia’s sumptuous seafood cuisine on heritage of this passionately independent your once in a lifetime journey to the Cathedral region as you cycle on the Emporda plain of Santiago de Compostela. CATALUNYA past orchards, winding olive groves and giant bamboo and cork forests. PAGE 83 PAGE 78 BARCELONA SPAIN

MADRID REGIONMALLORCA DPS VALENCIA & MAPS

ANDALUCIA MURCIA

MALAGA MALLORCA

With quaint, hilltop hamlets, seafront villages, pink almond groves and azure coastal views, Mallorca is the perfect Mediterranean picture postcard. See traditional, shimmering salt lagoons as you cycle past local beaches spotting the pink flamingos as you go. Admire the almond fields, unspoilt countryside, disused windmills and awe-inspiring views from the ANDALUCIA base of the Tramuntana mountain range and the postcard perfect Pollença. PAGE 85 Defined by its Moorish architecture with historic white hilltop villages and fiery flamenco traditions, cycle from the magical city of Seville and follow undulating terrain via the via verde and through Mediterranean forests and fragrant olive groves. Follow the river Guadalete towards the town of Jerez, known for its sherry production before ending the adventure admiring grandiose structures in Western Europe’s oldest city, Cadiz. PAGE 84 77 CYCLING SPAIN ∙ CATALUNYA

CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 CONTRASTS OF CATALUNYA CYCLING

Highlights Quiet country roads – perfect for first-timers Beautiful bays and coves, traditional fishing ports, sun-drenched villages off the tourist trail Excellent hotels, all with pools, including a luxury 14th century castle Pretty medieval villages with narrow cobbled streets 78 CYCLING SPAIN ∙

CATALUNYA

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Calella de Palafrugell 04 Platja de Pals to La Bisbal 30KM (19MI) Arrive at the Hotel Garbi in Calella de Palafrugell where your Cycle past rice fields and follow the River Ter to medieval room has a private balcony and sea view. It’s less than five Torroella de Montgrí with wonderful views of the Illes Medes. minutes’ walk to the centre of town where you have so many Head inland through historic villages and pretty hamlets to restaurants to choose from, we’ve left evening meals up to La Bisbal. Your hotel here, the Hotel Castell d’Empordà could you. If you have time why not explore the coastline and small not be in a better location, perched on a rocky outcrop with sandy coves south of Calella de Palafrugell, perhaps visiting breathtaking views from its sun terrace. Excellent evening the Cap Roig headland home to the beautiful Botanic Gardens. meals are included on your two nights here.

02 Calella de Palafrugell to Platja de Pals 33KM (21MI) 05 At La Bisbal Pedal through pine forests to reach medieval Pals with its Laze by the pool or head out on your bike to the pretty Romanesque church and stunning views. Head on through the medieval villages of Corçà, Monells and La Bisbal. Explore this pretty hamlets of Palau-Sator and Fontanilles, then back to lively market town famous for its pottery ware and especially the coast. Your evening meal is included at the Hotel Sa Punta, the Carrer del Call, formerly a Jewish ghetto. where you will stay for two nights. 06 La Bisbal to Calella de Palafrugell 33KM (21MI) 03 At Platja de Pals A gentle cycle takes in the walled village of Ullastret and the We recommend a visit to medieval Begur, a fashionable hilltop nearby archaeological site of one of the oldest Iberian villages town with an 11th century castle and fabulous views over in Spain. Continue through Peratallada to the market town of the coast. Alternatively, relax on the beach or stroll along the Palafrugell. Return to the Hotel Garbi and wander down to the superb coastal path. Dine in the hotel restaurant or on the seafront to choose your restaurant for dinner. terrace tonight. 07 Leave Calella de Palafrugell YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation • High Quality Bikes in a mix of  and  hotels • GPS route directions and maps • All breakfasts and 4 evening meals • RideWithGPS navigation app • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Luggage transfers between hotels WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hotel Garbi  Hotel Castell d’Empordà  Hotel Sa Punta  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99City Break Add-On in Barcelona 99Tandems Available 99Single Occupancy 99Ride Plus 99Room Upgrades Available 99Extra Nights 99Travel Options and Transfers

Platja de Pals 6 NIGHTS FROM £1355 With departures every two days from La Bisbal 25th April to 2nd October 2020 (excluding 5th-25th August inclusive) Also available as a 4 night trip from £1125 and a 7 night trip from £1465 Calella de Palafrugell

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CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 CLASSIC CATALAN CYCLING

Highlights Artists’ villages, beautiful sandy beaches, craggy coves and rocky bays An abundance of nature: giant bamboo, cork oaks, olives and vines Rich in cultural history: ruined castles, hilltop fortresses, cathedrals and battlefields Spectacular coastal views

80 CYCLING SPAIN ∙

CATALUNYA

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Calella de Palafrugell and the Dalí Museum is a must-see. Arrive at the Hotel Garbi in time for dinner. 06 Figueres to Girona 48KM/30M 02 Calella de Palafrugell to Torroella de Montgrí 34KM/21.5MI Heading further inland, follow an undulating route through Ride inland to the medieval castle remains at Begur, then on deep green meadows, cork forests and tiny charming to Torroella de Montgrí and the Hotel Moli del Mig. Dinner is hamlets. Then follow the rivers Ter and Onyar into the region’s included on your two nights here. capital Girona and the Hotel Ciutat de Girona. The regions 03 At Torroella de Montgrí capital has a fantastic selection of restaurants where you can Cycle into Torroella, originally the Royal Port for the Montgri enjoy dinner. Kings of Aragon, and explore the medieval centre and walls. 07 At Girona Then visit the 13th century castle that overlooks the town or Explore this stunning city, dating back to pre-Roman times. cycle to the beach at L’Estartit. Walk the city walls, discover the Plaça de la Independencia, the impressive cathedral and the picturesque river Onyar’s 04 Torroella de Montgrí to Figueres 49KM/31MI Follow flat country lanes to the coast at L’Escala and bridges and houses. explore the ancient Greek and Roman Empúries ruins. Head 08 Girona to Calella de Palafrugell 61KM/38MI to Castelló d’Empúries, with its 1,000-year-old church, Ride out of Girona on the Via Verde, an old narrow-gauge before continuing on to Figueres. You stay at the centrally railway line that heads, mostly downhill, all the way to located Hotel Pirineos for two nights and there are plenty of the coast. Continue around the coast past Platja d’Aro and restaurants to choose from nearby. Calonge back to the Hotel Garbi in the seafront town of Calella 05 At Figueres de Palafrugell. Stroll along La Rambla and discover the medieval town. The 09 Leave Calella de Palafrugell region is famous for its connections to the artist Salvador Dali

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation • High Quality Bikes in a mix of  and  hotels • GPS route directions and maps • All breakfasts and 2 evening meals • RideWithGPS navigation app • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Luggage transfers between hotels WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hotel Garbi  Hotel Pirineos  Hotel Moli del Mig  Hotel Ciutat de Girona­  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes Available 99Room Upgrades Available 99Tandems Available 99Single Occupancy 99Ride Plus 99Travel Options and Transfers 99Extra Nights 99City Break Add-On in Barcelona

Figueres

8 NIGHTS FROM £1375 Girona Torroella de Montgrí With departures every two days from 25th April to 2nd October 2020 (excluding 5th-25th August inclusive) Calella de Palafrugell

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YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CATALUNYA ACTIVITIES • 7 nights single-centre accommodation in a  hotel • All breakfasts CUSTOMER RATING MULTI-ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Services of your local Headwater Representative HIGHLIGHTS • Walking route directions and maps • Golden sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters and traditional fishing villages • High Quality Bikes • Gentle walking and cycling on breathtaking coastal paths and through beautiful Spanish countryside • GPS route directions and maps • Medieval villages with fascinating castles, interesting churches and quaint cobbled streets • RideWithGPS navigation app

WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Garbi  01 Arrive in Calella de Palafrugell Arrive at the Hotel Garbi where your room has a private balcony and sea view. The hotel is located on the hillside overlooking the sea and its just a 5 minute walk to the beautiful coves of Calella de CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Palafrugell. As well as the hotel restaurant, there’s a great selection of restaurants nearby for your 99E-Bikes Available evening meals. Below is our suggested itinerary for the week but you’re free to pick and choose your 99Tandems Available activities each day. 99Extra Nights 02 Ermedàs Walk 5KM (3MI), 1.5HR 99City Break Add-On in Barcelona Stroll through the woods and countryside near your hotel, passing through the sleepy hamlet of 99Single Occupancy Ermedàs. A short walk to get started, leaving plenty of time to explore the town and beach. 99Room Upgrades Available 99Half Board option 03 Cycle to Palafrugell 11KM (7MI) 99Travel Options and Transfers There are morning street food markets every day, plus a full market on Sundays in Palafrugell. The town made its name as a centre for cork production and the Museo del Suro (Cork Museum) is well worth a visit. There are plenty of lively bars and restaurants to stop for refreshments too. From Palafrugell you can take the bus to the regional capital Girona, where you can explore the city walls and the impressive cathedral.

04 Botanical Gardens and Platja Castell Walk 11KM (7MI), 3HR or 10KM (6.5MI), 3HR Walk via delightful Platja El Golfet to visit Calella’s Botanical Gardens (payable locally). Head south to unspoilt Platja Castell with superb views from Puig del Terme. Return on a lovely inland route across 7 NIGHTS FROM farmland and through forest, or on the rugged coastal trail via Cala Estreta.

05 Cycle to Pals 29KM (18.5MI) £985 This leisurely circuit takes you to the lovely medieval town of Pals - make sure you go through the With departures every Saturday from arch, from the Plaça Major, signed “el Pedro”, to visit the Gothic Quarter and the famous “Torre de les 25th April to 26th September 2020 Hores”. There are a lots of cafes, making it the perfect stop for lunch. (excluding 8th-15th August inclusive)

06 Sant Sebastià and Tamariu Walk 4KM (2.5MI), 1HR to 16KM (10MI), 5HR There are several options for this walk. Take an easy stroll along the Camí de Ronda to Llafranc, or add a walk up to the lighthouse and viewpoint of Sant Sebastià. Extend it even more for a full day out with a visit to the little resort of Tamariu in a beautiful cove, returning along the stunning coast. Girona Pals 07 Cycle to Palamós An enjoyable circular route takes you on part of the former “Tren Petit” Via Verde. The route continues through woods and fields to Palamós, with its old quarter and shops on one side and fishing harbour Tamariu and new marinas filled with luxury yachts and a wealth of bars and restaurants on the other. Calella de Palafrugell 08 Leave Calella de Palafrugell Palamós

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GALICIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CAMINO DE SANTIAGO • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of ,  and HHH hotels • All breakfasts, 4 evening meals with wine CYCLING • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent • GPS Route directions and maps CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Luggage transfers between hotels HIGHLIGHTS • Transfers on day 2 and day 5 • Pilgrims passport • Cycle along one of the world’s most famous UNESCO pilgrimage routes • Stamp your pilgrim’s passport in the picturesque villages, chapels, churches and cathedrals. • Visit the architecturally stunning cathedrals of Leon and Santiago de Compostela WHERE YOU’LL STAY Posada Regia  ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Via de la Plata  Hotel El Palacio  01 Arrival in Leon 05 O’Cebreiro to Sarria 43KM (26.5MI) Hotel Capricho de Josana HHH Arrive at the centrally located Posada Regia A transfer takes you to the top of the steep Rectoral de Goian  hotel. Explore the picturesque old medieval O´Cebreiro mountain with breath taking views. Hotel A Parada das Bestas HHH quarter and wander around Barrio Húmedo, Descend into outer lying woods and mountains, Pazo de Santamaria  which boasts narrow alleyways, traditional cycling through Samos where you can visit its Virxe da Cerca  Spanish taverns and breath-taking plazas. ancient Middle Age monastery, still inhabited by monks to this day. Cycle along streams and 02 Leon to Astorga rivers arriving at the restored parsonage Hotel CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP After your morning briefing, discover the Rectoral de Goian in time for dinner. highlights of Leon, including Panteón Real, 99E-Bikes Available Museo de Arte Contemporáneo and the 13th 06 Sarria to Palas de Rei 49KM (30.5MI) 99Extra Nights in Leon or Santiago century Catedral de Léon, one of the most Cycle on narrow secondary roads through one of 99City Break Add-On in Madrid beautiful in Spain. A late afternoon transfer the most beautiful sections of the Camino. Pass 99Single Occupancy takes you to Hotel Via de la Plata in Astorga peaceful woodland and green pastures before 99Rooms Upgrades available where it’s Episcopal Palace was designed by arriving at Hotel A Parada das Bestas for dinner. 99Guided tour of Leon Cathedral on day 2 renowned Spanish architect, Gaudi. 99Travel Options and Transfers 07 Palas de Rei to Arzua 16KM (10MI) 03 Astorga to Molinaseca 49KM (30.5MI) Time stands still in many of the pretty villages Cycle into the Maragatería area, a wooded you cycle through today, each one a hidden 8 NIGHTS FROM mountainous region with beautiful villages. gem with stone-built houses and quaint narrow Climb to the highest point of the tour, passing the streets, with the last, Arzua boasting more cows stone cross at 1.510m, where traditionally each than inhabitants! Dinner awaits at the restored £1345 pilgrim leaves a stone they have brought from stately home, Pazo de Santa Maria. With daily departures from their homeland. Descend into the rich valley of 28th March to 22nd October 2020 08 Arzua to Santiago de Compostela 19KM (12MI) the Bierzo before arriving at the Hotel El Palacio The final few miles of your epic pilgrimage takes in medieval Molinaseca. you into the heart of Santiago de Compostela, 04 Molinaseca to Ferrerias 49KM (30.5MI) the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region. Cycle through the Bierzo valley, which produces We cycle into the Plaza de Obradoiro overlooking excellent wines, fruit and vegetables before the Cathedral built in honour of Saint James, reaching the historic town of Villafranca del before arriving at the Virxe da Cerca on the edge Bierzo. On to the foothills of O´Cebreiro, a of its legendary historic centre. Arzua Palas de Rei pastoral village between the mountain ranges 09 Leave Santiago de Compostela of O Courel and Os Ancares, where you have a Santiago de O’Cebreiro Compostella Sarria Molinaseca traditional tapas dinner at the Hotel Capricho de Ferrerias Josana. Astorga Leon

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ANDALUCIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING IN ANDALUCIA • 6 nights hotel-to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All buffet breakfasts FROM SEVILLE TO CADIZ • Management by your Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Route Directions and Maps HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage Transfers • Striking Moorish architecture, historic hilltop towns and sizzling local tapas • Spectacular sandy beaches and traditional flamenco performances WHERE YOU’LL STAY

• Enjoy exhilarating cycles on undulating terrain that follow the river Guadalete Typical accommodation is listed below: NH Plaza de Armas  ITINERARY BY DAY Parador de Carmona  Hotel Finca La Morena  01 Seville Parador de Arcos de la Frontera  Travel to Seville, the breath-taking capital of the Andalucían region. With a perfect blend of Mudéjar Hotel Palacio Garvey  palaces, golden bell towers and Gothic cathedrals, Seville’s Moorish architecture is bound to leave Parador de Cadiz  you enchanted. Visit the ornate Alcázar castle complex, see the tomb of Christopher Columbus and lose yourself in its winding medieval lanes on the search for traditional flamenco performances and sizzling tapas. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

02 Seville to Carmona 51KM (31MI) 99E-Bikes Available Head north east to the historic walled town of Carmona to see its striking Moorish forts and golden 99Extra Nights palaces. Follow the network of cycle tracks, pass flat landscapes of cereals and sunflower plantations 99Single Occupancy before reaching Carmona. Admire grand churches and intricate Arab architecture. 99Room Upgrades Available 99Travel Options and Transfers 03 Carmona to Montellano 68KM (42MI) Enjoy a flat day of cycling through small traditional towns towards Montellano. Leaving picturesque Carmona, ride south along quaint country lanes passing fragrant olive groves. Finish in Montellano and bask in the beauty of its pink marble buildings and natural monuments; perfect for an evening of relaxation.

04 Montellano to Arcos de la Frontera 60KM (37MI) 6 NIGHTS FROM Pedal along quiet country roads and the ‘Via Verde’ cycle lane with the spectacular mountains of Grazalema as your backdrop. Experience uphill ascents as the cycle takes you towards pristine £1265 Mediterranean forests. Cycle past Puerto Serrano and end the day in Arcos de la Frontera; one of Andalucía’s most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white villages). With departures on selected Wednesdays, Fridays and Saurdays from 1st March to 05 Arcos de la Frontera to Jerez 56KM (35MI) 29th November 2020 Follow the river Guadalete through Mediterranean woodland on undulating terrain along quiet country roads. Enjoy welcomed breaks in quaint villages along the way to Jerez. Holding worldwide acclaim for its sherry and brandy production, Jerez is also well known for its fiery flamenco performances. Carmona

06 Jerez to Cádiz 62KM (38MI) Seville Cycle towards the ancient city of Cádiz, thought to be the oldest city in Western Europe. Taking you past delicious seafood restaurants in El Puerto de Santa Maria, we reach Cádiz. Visit Cathedral Nueva and Gran Teatro, finishing on its stunning beaches before arriving at your hotel. Montellano Puerto 07 Leave Cadiz Serrano Arcos de la Frontera Puerto de Santa Maria Cadiz

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MALLORCA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING IN MALLORCA - • 7 nights hotel-to hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH,  and  hotels • All breakfasts COAST TO COAST • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Route Directions and Maps HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage Transfers • Cycle past almond groves, picturesque windmills and salt lagoons • Panoramic views of the spectacular Tramuntana Mountain range and rural hotel stays WHERE YOU’LL STAY

• Discover the medieval, picuresque, seaside town of Pollença Typical accommodation is listed below: Rural Hotel Es Torrent HHH ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Es Reco de Randa  Rural Hotel Can Calco HHH 01 Arrive at Campos Hotel Juma  Fly into Palma airport and take a taxi or a private transfer to your hotel in the countryside. Spend two nights here, at a lovely family-run converted farm house with a large pool near the south of the island. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 02 Day in Campos 40KM (24MI) Spend today exploring Campos. Cycle towards stunning beaches near your hotel, visit the salt 99E-Bikes Available production lagoons and catch sightings of local flamingos, before you enjoy a rest by the hotel pool. To 99Extra Nights truly unwind, try the hotel owners local homemade cooking and Mallorquin wines. 99Single Occupancy 99Room Upgrades Available 03 Campos to Algaida 38KM (23MI) 99Half Board Upgrade Available Pedal through small country lanes, almond groves and quaint picturesque villages before cycling 99Travel Options and Transfers north towards Algaida. A true paradise for cyclists, enjoy riding past remains of Talaiotic settlements, disused windmills and take some time to explore its central square that’s dominated by a beautiful sandstone church before arriving at your hotel for 2 nights.

04 Algaida to Sineu 41KM (25MI) Enjoy a leisurely ride today as you cycle to the vibrant market town of Sineu stopping in small villages on the way for a coffee or snack. Slow your pace down to enjoy the unspoilt countryside and glorious surroundings. Steeped in history, explore Sineu and sit in one of the outdoor cafes in Plaça des Fossar to soak up the local atmosphere. 7 NIGHTS FROM

05 Sineu to Moscari 40KM (24MI) Cycling towards the Tramuntana mountains range you head to the white-washed village of Moscari, £1175 staying two nights in a delightful rural hotel. Enjoy beautiful views over the nearby mountain range With daily departures from and relax by the pool. 1st March to 31st October 2020 06 Free day in Tramuntana mountain range 36KM (22MI) Explore one of the most beautiful settings in Mallorca as you cycle along the foothills of the Tramuntana mountain range. Today’s circular route from your base of Moscari allows an excellent day of cycling through typically Mediterranean landscapes of holm oak woodland, almonds orchards, figs Pollença and caper tree groves. Alcudia Moscari Buger Serra Tramuntana 07 Moscari to Pollença 41KM (25MI) Sineu Cycle towards the old historic town of Alcudia where there are plenty of options for a leisurely lunch. Head further north to the lovely mediaeval town of Pollença where you will spend your final night. Palma Algaida MALLORCA Enjoy meandering around its cobble-stone streets and street market or enjoy dinner alfresco in one of Campos the many charming restaurants. 08 Leave Pollença Es Trenc Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C07MA 85 An introduction to PORTUGAL

ocated on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is dominated by its Atlantic coastline. In historic Porto, you can sample some of the most highly Lregarded wines in the world and walk the old town’s narrow alleys, before cycling your way along the coastline via Aveiro – known as ‘Portugal’s Venice’ – with its boats, palm trees and excellent restaurants. Or pedal past the terraced vineyards and wine estates of the Duoro valley, stopping off to try the world class wines en route - including of course port, for which the whole country is famous.

86 CYCLING PORTUGAL

87 Portugal REGION BY REGION

WEST PORTUGAL MINHO Cycle past shuttered townhouses and colourful rabelo sailing boats cruising along the Douro DOURO river, before heading along the coast and VALLEY through lagoons to the town of Aveiro, also known as “Portugal’s Venice”. Pass candy- PORTO striped beachside houses and meander through pine and acacia forests. There is an abundance of coastal and lagoon wildlife to discover from kingfishersREGION to pink flamingos. DPS PAGE 92 WEST PORTUGAL & MAPSCOIMBRA PORTUGAL

LISBON

ALGARVE

Home to stunning limestone clifftops that stand firm against the crashing waves of the Atlantic, ALGARVE the Algarve’s wild west provides the perfect backdrop for a cycling adventure. Ride along its quaint country lanes that take you past FARO alpine-like meadows, large reservoirs and rich oak forests towards the old maritime towns of Sagres and Lagos. PAGE 90

88 MINHO

Enjoy spectacular views of high mountain peaks, glistening rivers and historic towns in the far north of Portugal. Indulge in regional delicacies and taste the local Vinho Verde, as you cycle towards the Atlantic Coast. Head back inland through a luxuriant green landscape and past impressive manor houses. Cycle back to the coast along sand dunes and through fishing villages to the city of Porto. PAGE 95 REGION DPS & MAPS

DOURO VALLEY

From Castelo Rodrigo your route takes you across the highland plain to the Spanish border and on through historical villages to the River Douro. Discover uniquely terraced vineyards and take in the typical towns and villages of the region, including Pinhao, where many of the famous Port wine estates are located. PAGE 94

89 CYCLING PORTUGAL ∙ ALGARVE

CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 CYCLING IN THE REAL ALGARVE

Highlights Visit Cabo de São Vicente, Europe’s most south-westerly point known as the ‘Sacred Promontory’ Bird-spotter’s paradise; endemic and migratory species from Europe and North Africa Superb hotels, all with pools and great regional cuisine

90 CYCLING PORTUGAL ∙

ALGARVE

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive at Sagres through pretty villages. Alternatively, pass the Bravura Arrive in the coastal town of Sagres in time for dinner at the reservoir and Alpine-like hamlets and meadows before hotel. meeting the coast in Carrapateira. Then it’s on to Aldeia da Pedralva, a village where each house has been restored to 02 Sagres to Lagos 38KM (24MI) From Sagres head inland, mostly following the Ecovia, a create individual hotel rooms. Evening meals are included for national cycle trail. The villages of Salema, Burgau and Luz your two nights here. have great sandy beaches. You end the day at Lagos and the 05 At Pedralva Costa d’Oiro. Dinner is included here for the next two nights. Spend the day relaxing in Aldeia da Pedralva or follow one of 03 At Lagos our routes taking you out along the clifftops with great views Lagos is encircled by 14th century walls. Follow tangled of the coast. Alternatively, return to Carrapateira to visit the cobbled lanes leading to the new marina and the lively fish Land and Sea Museum. market. Coastal walks lead to Ponte da Piedade lighthouse 06 Pedralva to Sagres 29KM (18.5MI) or 30KM (19MI) and from Porto de Mos to Luz, both offering outstanding sea Two options today, both allowing time to visit the lighthouse views. at Cabo de São Vicente and Sagres Fortress. There are great views of the Serra de Monchique as you pass through Vila do 04 Lagos to Pedralva 42KM (26.5MI) or 52KM (32.5MI) A choice of routes today, both taking you along the promenade Bispo. You’ll stay at the Memmo Baleeira and dine out this at Lagos, before heading inland to Odiáxere. The shorter evening. option has fewer climbs and takes you on winding roads 07 Leave Sagres YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation • High Quality Bikes in a mix of  and  • GPS route directions and maps • All breakfasts and 5 evening meals • RideWithGPS navigation app • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Luggage transfers between hotels WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Memmo Baleeira  Aldeia da Pedralva  Costa d’Oiro  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99Extra Nights 99Room Upgrades 99City Break Add-Ons 99Travel Options and Transfers 99Single Occupancy 99Various Durations

6 NIGHTS FROM £1035 With departures every two days from Pedralva 2nd January to 21st May 2020 and 10th October 2020 to 21st May 2021 Lagos Also available as 4 and 7 night trips Sagres

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CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 PORTO COASTAL CYCLING

Highlights Coastal cycling routes: beaches, sand dunes, lighthouses, colourful marinas and charming cities Coastal and lagoon wildlife: pink flamingo, purple heron, kingfisher and sandpiper Porto’s famous wine cellars; Aveiro’s Venetian canals

92 CYCLING PORTUGAL ∙

WEST PORTUGAL

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Porto 05 At Aveiro Arrive at the Vila Galé Porto Ribeira, your home for the next Explore Aveiro, ‘Portugal’s Venice’, with its alleyways, two nights, in time for dinner in a local restaurant. museum, gondola-style boats and swaying palms. The noisy fish market is a daily event. It’s a short bus trip to Costa Nova 02 At Porto 20KM (12.5MI) to discover the streets of unique, painted wooden houses. Cycle past beaches, a 16th century castle, fishing villages and Porto city park. Alternatively, relax in Porto - enjoy the narrow 06 Aveiro to Praia de Mira 33KM (21MI) alleys and the riverfront or visit one of the many port wine- Heading south, visit Ílhavo’s Vista Alegre, Portugal’s oldest tasting cellars across the river. fine porcelain producer. Cross the lagoon to meet the ocean at Vagueira then turn inland, pedalling past fruit orchards 03 Porto to Furadouro 30KM (19MI) to beachfront Praia de Mira. You stay at the Maçarico Beach Pedal along the south bank of the Douro River from the Hotel for the next two nights. Natural Reserve of the Douro Estuary, to the Atlantic coast. Relax on the sands at Espinho before hopping on the train to 07 At Praia de Mira 24KM (15MI) Ovar and cycling on to the Furadouro Boutique Hotel. A leafy trail leads east into lagoons, acacia forest and New England-style covered bridges spanning clear-water canals. 04 Furadouro to Aveiro (Estarreja) 34KM (21.5MI) Have lunch by the sea and enjoy a paddle before dinner. Head south along the Aveiro Lagoon, before hopping on the train from Estarreja (payable locally) to the Hotel Moliceiro in 08 Leave Praia de Mira the heart of Aveiro. Enjoy dinner tonight in one of the many famous fish restaurants.

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation • GPS route directions and maps in  hotels • RideWithGPS navigation app • All breakfasts and 4 evening meals • Luggage transfers between hotels • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • Port wine tasting • High Quality Bikes WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Vila Galé Porto Ribeira  Hotel Moliceiro  Furadouro Boutique Hotel  Maçarico Beach Hotel­  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes 99Single Occupancy 99Tandems 99Room Upgrades 99Extra Nights 99Travel Options and Transfers 99City Break Add-On in Lisbon

Porto

7 NIGHTS FROM Furadouro £1475 Aveiro With departures every Tuesday from 7th April to 27th October 2020 Also available as a 9 night trip from £1535 Praia de Mira

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DOURO VALLEY

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING IN THE • 6 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH,  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 1 evening meal DOURO VALLEY • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • Guided visit and wine tasting • World-class wines of the Douro Valley, with wine tasting included • Delicious cuisine, prepared with local and seasonal produce • Cycle through historical villages and terraced vineyards WHERE YOU’LL STAY Typical accommodation is listed below: ITINERARY BY DAY Casa da Cisterna  Casas do Juizo HHH 01 Arrive at Castelo Rodrigo Hotel Medieval do Penedono  Arrive in the historical village of Castelo Rodrigo. Head out for an exploratory walk, to take in its LBV House Hotel  cobbled streets, palace ruins, old walls and ogival arched gates, 16th century pillory and medieval church. Your hotel is located in Castelo Rodrigo with great views over the surrounding plains, mountains and all the way to the border with Spain. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

02 At Castelo Rodrigo 53KM (33MI) 99E-Bikes The first day of cycling takes you across high plains to the historical village of Almeida, one of the 99City Break Add-On in Porto most important strongholds in Portugal’s history. Also visit the village of Vilar Torpim, with it’s chapel 99Single Occupancy and manor house, and Escarigo, right on the Spanish border. Return to Castelo Rodrigo for your 99Travel Options and Transfers overnight.

03 Castelo Rodrigo to Aldeia do Juizo 30KM (19MI) Cycle around the Serra da Marofa mountain range with stunning views over the Iberian Plateau and the Douro river system to the East. Continue to Aldeia do Juizo, a rural village with 2 chapels, several wineries and a community oven surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and almond orchards. Stay in a delightful village house, part of a rural tourism complex of restored houses, all with private bathroom facilities.

04 Aldeia do Juizo to Penedono 39KM (24MI) 6 NIGHTS FROM Today you cycle through two historical villages, Marialva and Meda before your approach to Penedono, with views of its almost hexagon castle, perched on an outcrop, a unique example of military £1095 architecture that dominates the surrounding countryside. With departures every Sunday from 05 Penedono to Pinhão 40KM (25MI) 5th April to 25th October 2020 The Alto Douro winemaking region is most famous for its Port wine, but the region also produces world-famous wines from the Touriga grape. The terraced vineyards are so typical of the region that they are listed a UNESCO World Heritage site and are a delight to behold. The Port wine town of Pinhão is your next stop, with it’s exquisite train station, the ceiling covered in azulejos (traditional Portuguese blue ceramic tiles). You spend the night in Pinhão.

40.5KM (25MI) 06 At Pinhão Peso da Regua Pinhão The route today takes you along the magnificent and enchanting Douro Valley. Head along the Porto Douro Castelo riverside and enjoy a guided visit of an 18th century wine estate, at the confluence of the Douro and Penedono Rodrigo Juizo Escarigo

Tedo rivers, and a wine tasting at Quinta do Tedo. At the end of today’s cycle you will arrive back in Almeida Pinhão. PORTUGAL

07 Leave Pinhão SPAIN

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MINHO

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING IN PORTUGAL FROM • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • Luggage transfers between hotels • 3 wine tastings • Cycle through rugged scenery, mountain villages and along the dramatic Atlantic Coast • Taste the local Vinho Verde in renowned vineyards from Ponte de Lima to Porto • Porto, a World UNESCO Heritage City filled with baroque churches and vibrant street art WHERE YOU’LL STAY Typical accommodation is listed below: ITINERARY BY DAY Solar de Serrade  Design & Wine Hotel  01 Arrive at Monção eighteenth century. The route continues to Hotel Imperial do Norte  Arrive in Monção, a fortified town on the River Arcos de Valdevez, situated in the valley of the Hotel Bagoeira  Minho. Time to enjoy your first wine tasting of River Vez and still retaining much of the typical Villa C Boutique Hotel  the holiday. charm of the Alto Minho province. Return to Hotel Boa Vista  Ponte de Lima for a wine tasting and visit at the 02 Monção to Caminha 48KM (30MI) Your cycle route today takes you westwards, Interpretation Centre of Vinhos Verdes. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP along the River Minho to the Atlantic Ocean, 05 Ponte de Lima to Barcelos 33KM (20MI) 99E-Bikes passing through extensive vineyards dedicated Today your ride follows the ancient Portuguese 99Extra Nights to the production of Vinho Verde. You’ll pass route towards Santiago de Compostela, through 99Single Occupancy landmarks such as the 17th century stronghold cornfields and vineyards to the pretty town of 99Travel Options and Transfers at Valenca and the Vila Nova de Cerveira fort, Barcelos on the River Cavado. Barcelos is the testament to the battles between Spain and centre of the Portuguese pottery industry and Portugal. Finish at the elegant town of Caminha, markets are held in the town on most days. located on the estuary of the River Minho, with a 06 Barcelos to Vila do Conde 36KM (22MI) history dating back to pre-Roman times. The ride back to the Atlantic today is a short 03 Caminha to Ponte de Lima 53KM (33MI) stage, so when you arrive in Vila do Conde enjoy Go south, along the dramatic Atlantic Ocean a walk around the manors and palaces within 7 NIGHTS FROM coastline, through fishing villages that appear the town centre, and take a leisurely stroll along unchanged for centuries. Arriving in Viana do the beach before dinner. Castelo, the peace and quiet is replaced by the £1125 07 Vila do Conde to Porto 34KM (21MI) buzz of this lively city, situated on the estuary With departures every Saturday from You’ll cycle along quiet cycle paths today, of the Riva Lima. Then, cycle inland to Ponte de 4th April to 17th October 2020 following the coast, passing fishing villages Lima, the oldest village in Portugal. and a seabird reserve before reaching your 04 Ponte de Lima Loop 45KM (28.5MI) destination, the UNESCO World Heritage city of

Cycle along the Lima River to Ponte da Barca. Porto. Enjoy a port wine tasting. SPAIN

The town’s historical centre has a number Minho Monção 08 Leave Porto of manor houses as well as some beautiful Caminha Ponte de Lima monuments dating from the sixteenth to the Viana

Barcelos

PORTUGAL Vila do Conde

Porto

Douro

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ur holidays in central and northern Europe take you from Austria’s picturesque lakes to Croatia’s Istrian coast and on to the chocolate box villages of Bavaria. OWhether you’re visiting Austria’s lake district, or exploring the rich natural beauty of Lake Bled, incredible views await you. Crystal-clear lakes, pretty meadows and dramatic mountain back drops that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. In Croatia you’ll find Venetian castles, Renaissance palaces and bustling harbours along the coastline, whilst its neighbour, Slovenia boasts jaw dropping scenery in the heart of central Europe. Germany is perfect for scenic cycling around Chiemsee and picturesque pedalling along the Danube as far as Austria’s vibrant capital, Vienna. There is ample opportunity to explore Bavaria’s ancient monasteries, fairytale castles and exquisite medieval walled towns, or perhaps you’d prefer to discover three countries in one holiday on the stunning Lake Constance?

96 CYCLING CENTRAL & NORTHERN EUROPE

97 Slovenia, Italy & Croatia REGION BY REGION

BLED SLOVENIA & ITALY LJUBLJANA GRADO SLOVENIA ZAGREB ITALY CROATIA VENICE POREČ ISTRIA PULA

BOLOGNA

REGIONSAN MARINO DPS & MAPS DUBROVNIK

SLOVENIA & ITALY CROATIA

Enjoy a cycling route that begins on the Effortlessly combining ancient towns, historic shores of magical Lake Bled in Slovenia, sites and Roman settlements, against a with the dramatic limestone peaks of the backdrop of rolling hills and sparkling Julian Alps providing the backdrop as you coastlines, the timeless world of Croatia pass pretty hamlets hemmed in by vineyards is truly a feast for the eyes. Discover the and shimmering mountain streams. Visit the Istrian Peninsula, cycling through its network archaeological site of Aquileia and end the of marble alleyways, towards impressive adventure admiring Grado’s crystalline waters. woodland valleys and Byzantine basilicas. PAGE 100 PAGE 99

98 CYCLING CROATIA ∙

ISTRIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES PULA TO POREC CYCLING • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent HIGHLIGHTS • High Quality Bikes • Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula: sleepy villages, bustling harbours, blazing seaside sunsets • Route directions and maps • Roman amphitheatres, Byzantine basilicas, frescoed churches, medieval piazze • Luggage transfers between hotels • Delicious cuisine: zesty wines, fresh seafood, truffles and pasta • Optional cycle transfer day 6

WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Villetta Phasiana  01 Arrive in Fazana Villa Tuttorotto  Arrive at the Villetta Phasiana where you’ll spend the next three nights. Relax on the hotel terrace, Hotel Flores  take a swim or explore the village before your bike briefing. 02 Pula and Brijuni National Park 20KM (12.5MI) CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Spend the day in Pula exploring its network of marbled alleys and Roman remains, or head by boat to the Brijuni National Park to discover Byzantine villages and pine-fringed bays. 99E-Bikes 99Extra Nights 03 Vodnjan circuit 20KM (12.5MI) 33KM (21MI) or 99City Break Add-Ons Pedal inland to Istria’s ancient capital of Vodnjan with its Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance 99Single Occupancy architecture. Cycle north for lunch near Sta Foska, then return along the coast for a sunset stroll in 99Room Upgrades Fazana.

04 Fazana to Rovinj 38KM (24MI) A gentle ascent northwards brings you to the Roman castle in the small town of Bale. Then it’s downhill to the ocean, bay-hopping by crystal seas, and on to Rovinj, which rivals the charms of Venice. You stay one street back from the waterfront in the Villa Tuttorotto.

05 Rovinj circuit 12KM (7.5MI) Discover the art galleries and boutiques of Rovinj, or pop over to nearby Venice. Alternatively, enjoy a cycle around the church ruins, olive groves and oxblood soils, before sundowners in Rovinj.

7 NIGHTS FROM 06 Rovinj to Porec 42KM (26.5MI) or 33KM (21MI) Cycle inland and whizz down to the Lim Fjord’s impressive wooded valley. Today’s challenge awaits you - a 2km climb to a fabulous panoramic viewpoint, or take the transfer to avoid this section. Return £1135 to the coast and Porec’s pretty harbour where you will enjoy a two-night stay close to the marina in the Hotel Flores. With departures every Tuesday from 5th May to 22nd September 2020 07 Porec Circuit 30KM (19MI) Explore the UNESCO Basilica at the heart of Porec, before you pedal north past a Roman amphora factory, clear bays and headlands. Loop back via a giant limestone cave and the Roxanich vineyard.

08 Leave Porec Porec

Rovinj

Vodnjan Fazana Pula Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C07IS 99 CYCLING SLOVENIA & ITALY

Tarvisio Bled Venzone

Udine

Palmanova

Grado

CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 JULIAN ALPS TO THE ADRIATIC CYCLING

Highlights Gentle, easy-paced cycling through wonderfully scenic countryside - vines, lush forests, sun-soaked hamlets Rich natural beauty: magical lakes and cobalt blue Adriatic Sea, Medieval villages, Venetian squares, Renaissance towns, historic hilltop castles

100 CYCLING SLOVENIA & ITALY

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Bled 06 Venzone to Udine 50KM (31.5MI) Arrive at the Hotel Triglav overlooking the stunning Lake Bled, Coast along tranquil lanes, passing vineyards and remote its romantic island and mountains beyond. Evening meals are churches in the foothills of the Friuli hills, before arriving at included on your two nights here. the Astoria Hotel Italia in Udine.

02 Lake Bled Circular Cycle 29KM (18MI) 07 At Udine Follow the shore of Lake Bled and head through sleepy Explore Udine’s brightly-coloured, portico-lined squares hamlets to 12th century Kamen Castle. Then cross the white- between stunning Piazza Libertà and Piazza Matteotti, where water Sava Dolinka River back to Bled. you’ll find shops and historic cafes. Venice can be reached by train. 03 Bled to Tarvisio 33KM (21MI) Transfer to Mojstrana after breakfast. Keep an eye out for rare 08 Udine to Palmanova 30KM (19MI) birds of prey as you cycle west to Kranskja Gora, between the It’s time for wine tasting and a visit to medieval Pavia di Udine jagged Julian Alps and the rolling Karawanken mountains. en route to 16th century Palmanova and the Hotel Ai Dogi. Cross the Italian border to the Hotel Edelhof in Tarvisio where 09 Palmanova to Grado 28KM (17.5MI) your evening meals are included for the next two nights. Explore the UNESCO-listed ancient Roman city of Aquileia, an 04 At Tarvisio immense archaeological site with a magnificent 11th century Head out to the beautiful twin glacial lakes of Fusine or ride cathedral and 4th century mosaic pavement. Afterwards, it’s over the Austrian border to Arnoldstein - a chairlift (open time to rest on the island town of Grado. Your last two nights 6/6-13/09) takes you up to the point where Austria, Italy and are spent at the Hotel Hannover. Slovenia meet. Alternatively cycle to the foot of Monte Lussari 10 At Grado and get the cable car to the top (open 6/6-13/09). Relax on the sandy beaches of Grado, the ‘Sun Island’, 05 Tarvisio to Venzone 65KM (41MI) enjoying views to Croatia and Slovenia. Descend into the wooded Fella Valley, then criss-cross the 11 Leave Grado river to medieval Venzone where you stay for the night at the Agriturismo Casali Scjs.

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 10 nights hotel to hotel accommodation • GPS route directions and maps in a mix of HH,  and  hotels • RideWithGPS navigation app • All breakfasts and 4 evening meals • Luggage transfers between hotels • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • Cycle transfer day 3 • High Quality Bikes • Cable car tickets for Monte Lussari WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hotel Triglav  Astoria Hotel Italia  Hotel Edelhof  Hotel Ai Dogi  Agriturismo Casali Scjs HH Hotel Hannover  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes 99Extra Nights 99City Break Add-Ons 99Single Occupancy 99Room Upgrades 10 NIGHTS FROM 99Travel Options and Transfers £1915 With departures every Wednesday and Saturday from 13th May to 10th October 2020

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C10SV 101 Austria & Germany REGION BY REGION

HAMBURG

BERLIN HANOVER

DORTMUND REGIONGERMANY DPS

FRANKFURT& MAPS

NUREMBERG

STUTTGART LINZ AUGSBURG VIENNA MONDSEE MUNICH

CHIEMSEE AUSTRIAN LAKES BAVARIAAUSTRIA INNSBRUCK GRAZ

KLAGENFURT

102 BAVARIA AUSTRIAN LAKES

Looking beyond Bavaria’s archetype traditions Discover the Austrian Lakes and cycle along of lederhosen, Bratwurst and beer, cycle options gentle shoreline routes through traditional include a tour around Lake Chiemsee, to find lakeside villages, complete with chocolate nature reserves and ancient monasteries or box-style cobbled streets and frescoed houses. a trip through the lakes to the enchanting Every stop brings new discoveries such as St Neuschwanstein Castle, that inspired Walt Wolfgang’s antique cog railway to the summit of Disney’s classic, Beauty and the Beast. Our two Schafberg, Mozart’s museum in St Gilgen, and cycling routes are designed to take in the most Mondsee’s frescoed high street; the church here scenic routes and panoramic views of the Upper was the location of the famous wedding in ‘The Bavarian Alps. Sound of Music’! PAGE 104 REGIONPAGE 106 DPS & MAPS

VIENNA

103 CYCLING GERMANY NEW ∙

BAVARIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING BAVARIA’S LAKE • 7 nights single centre accommodation in a  hotel • All breakfasts CHIEMSEE • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • GPS navigation app • 2 Boat Trips • Explore the surroundings of Bavaria’s largest lake, with plenty of swimming opportunities • Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Upper Bavarian Alps • Boat trip to the storybook castles of Herreninsel and Fraueninsel WHERE YOU’LL STAY Garden-Hotel Reinhart  ITINERARY BY DAY CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 01 Arrive in Prien am Chiemsee on the northern side of the Alps. Explore the Arrive at the 4 star Garden-Hotel Reinhart, beautiful surrounding gardens, island potteries, 99E-Bikes located just 100m from Lake Chiemsee, fish smoke-houses, and its romantic lakeside 99City Break Add-On in Munich Bavaria’s largest lake. Take a stroll along the restaurants. 99Single Occupancy promenade and around the harbour where you’ll 99Room Upgrades 05 Achental Valley 55KM (34.5MI) find a great selection of restaurants. In the morning, take the bus or train to Übersee. 99Travel Options 02 Eggstätter Lake District and Amerang You’ll cycle past colourful meadows, surrounded 40-60KM (25-37.5MI) by spectacular mountains. Following the tranquil Today’s route takes you through the oldest river Tiroler Ache, cycle via Marquartstein back nature reserve in Bavaria, the Eggstätter Lake to Grassau. Quiet, shady paths will then lead you District. Cycle across forests, fragrant meadows, through the Rottauer Filze (moorland) to Bernau and past some of the 18 lakes that make up and along the lake back to Prien. this district to Höslwang, a typical Bavarian village. Then, cycle towards Amerang, where 06 Lakes and Monasteries 45KM (28.5MI) you can visit the German Car Museum and the Start your day with a boat trip to Seebruck. Your Historical Farmhouse Museum. On your return cycle route takes you via Truchtlaching an der 7 NIGHTS FROM to Prien, you’ll be accompanied by a magnificent Alz to the lakeside Benedictine Seeon monastery. panoramic view of the Upper Bavarian Alps. From the pretty town of Gstadt, you will return to the shores of Lake Chiemsee and cycle via £995 03 Chiemsee loop APPROX. 65KM (41MI) Breitbrunn and Rimsting back to the hotel where Today, you’ll complete a circuit of Lake you can enjoy a dip in the indoor pool. With daily departures from Chiemsee, discovering places of interest along 18th April to 10th October 2020 07 Aschau – Bernau 40KM (25MI) the way, including the Roman Museum in Also availble as a 6 night trip from £895 Seebruck, and the Horse Museum in Arlaching. Ride over the romantic hills of Chiemgau to Enjoy lunch along the lakeshore and cool off in Aschau, where Hohenauschau Castle towers the refreshing waters of Lake Chiemsee. over the small picturesque town. Take the cable car up to Kampenwand for extensive mountain Amerang 04 Boat trip to Herreninsel and Fraueninsel views. Visit the Hammersbach waterfall, and Seebruck Enjoy a day out of the saddle today and take cycle back to Prien on flat paths. Eggstätt the boat from Prien to the Herreninsel island and visit the Herrenchiemsee castle, built 08 Leave Prien am See Gstadt am Chiemsee

under King Ludwig II. Afterwards, stop at Prien am Herreninsel Island the island Fraueninsel, home to the oldest Chiemsee remaining German-speaking female convent

Marquartstein

104 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C07BC CYCLING GERMANY NEW ∙

BAVARIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES LAKES & MOUNTAINS OF • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • All breakfasts BAVARIA CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • GPS navigation app • Luggage transfers between hotels • Cycle through pretty Bavarian villages, along lakes and rivers and enjoy alpine views • Enjoy swimming opportunities in the lakes • King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle WHERE YOU’LL STAY Typical accommodation is listed below: ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Rathaus  Hotel Jaklhof  01 Arrive in Augsburg Hotel Angerbräu  Arrive at your hotel in the historic city of Augsburg, founded in 15BC on the orders of Emperor Hotel Weinbauer  Augustus. Hotel Rössle  02 Augsburg to Wörthsee 65KM (41MI) Hotel Goggl  From Augsburg cycle through traditional Bavarian villages, surrounded by lush meadows, before reaching the shores of Lake Ammersee. Relax by the lakeside or enjoy a boat trip on a paddle steamer CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP before continuing to Lake Wörthsee. 99E-Bikes 03 Wörthsee to Murnau 60KM (37.5MI) 99Extra Nights Today you will pedal along Lakes Wörthsee and Pilsensee to Andechs Abbey – famed for its Baroque 99City Break Add-On in Munich church and brewery! Enjoy swimming opportunities along the way at Lakes Ammersee, Staffelsee 99Single Occupancy and Riegsee before arriving in the artist’s town of Murnau. 99Travel Options 04 Murnau to Füssen/Schwangau 60KM (37.5MI) Cycle from village to village in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. Visit the UNESCO listed Pilgrimage Church of Wies, a beautifully preserved oval church and a masterpiece of Bavarian Rococo before continuing to the pretty town of Füssen.

50KM (31.5MI) 05 Füssen/Schwangau to Schongau 7 NIGHTS FROM In the morning visit King Ludwig’s fairytale castles, Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein, before cycling along the scenic Via Claudia Augusta to Schongau. The town has a long history of settlement and is surrounded by fortified walls built in the Middle Ages. £995

06 Schongau to Landsberg am Lech 35KM (22MI) With departures every Saturday and Sunday Today your route follows the course of the River Lech with many attractions to visit en route to from 11th April to 10th October 2020 Landsberg. Take in St Michael’s Basilica in Altenstadt, the Abodiacum Roman Museum in Epfach and the pilgrim church in Vilgertshofen.

07 Landsberg am Lech to Augsburg 45KM (28.5MI) Augsburg Explore the medieval city centre of Landsberg am Lech with its historic city hall and the Gothic Bavarian Gate. Your cycle route takes you via Kaufering am Lech, to Königsbrunn, enjoying 11km on Munich Wörthsee the best-preserved section of the Via Claudia. Continue to Augsburg with its famous social housing Landsberg am Lech complex from 1516.

08 Leave Augsburg Schongau

Murnau Füssen Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C07BL 105 CYCLING AUSTRIA ∙

LAKES

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES THE SOUND OF MUSIC • 10 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 5 evening meals CYCLING • Services of your local Headwater Representative • High Quality Bikes CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps HIGHLIGHTS • RideWithGPS navigation app • Luggage transfers between hotels • Visit the fairytale city of Salzburg, Baroque palaces and the famous Mozart museum • Exceptional lakeside routes, storybook villages, spectacular mountain views • Eclectic mix of leisure activities including boat trips, water sports and mountain rail rides WHERE YOU’LL STAY Hotel Leitnerbrau  ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Post  Hotel Grunberg  01 Arrive in Mondsee and breath-taking villas. Take a horse-drawn Hotel Goldenes Schiff Arrive at your hotel in Mondsee, with time to carriage ride, people-watch on the riverside Hotel Bergrose  explore before your evening meal. esplanade, or simply enjoy local delicacies in the famous Zauner restaurant. You also have 02 Mondsee to Weissenbach 21KM (13MI) CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Today, you follow the shore of Mondsee before the option of cycling to the UNESCO village of joining Attersee at the pretty lakeside town Hallstatt and visit the famous salt mines. 99E-Bikes 99Extra Nights of Unterach and following the lakeside to 08 Bad Ischl to Strobl 16KM (10MI) Weissenbach. Set off along the banks of the River Ischl below 99City Break Add-On in Salzburg the striking Leonsberg and Bleckwand peaks 99Single Occupancy 03 Weissenbach to Gmunden 42KM (26MI) and continue to lakeside Strobl. Take an optional 99Room Upgrades Follow a scenic route on the eastern side of the 99Travel Options and Transfers lake through Steinbach and the scenic Weyregg, detour to visit the historic market town of St before passing through Schorfling, where you Wolfgang. can visit the Gustav Klimt museum. 09 At Strobl 04 At Gmunden Spend the day exploring the beautiful lakeside Today, enjoy a boat trip on Gisela, the last coal- Strobl at your own leisure, and take advantage 10 NIGHTS FROM fired paddle steamer, once used by Archduke of its watersports, summer toboggan run and Franz Ferdinand. Or alternatively, take the animal park. Enjoy the additional cycle routes cable car to the top of the Grunberg (944m) here, where you can stop to wander around the £1545 Burglstein on a lakeside path. Or take the local which boasts wonderful panoramic views at its With departures every two days from summit. bus (90 minutes) to visit the fairytale city of Salzburg. 9th May to 20th September 2020 05 Gmunden to Bad Ischl 19KM (12MI) or 37KM Also available as a 7 night trip (23.5MI) 10 Strobl to Mondsee 29KM (18MI) Take the boat across to Ebensee, stopping off at Stay close to Wolfgangsee’s southern lakeshore, Traunkirchen to visit the church with its famous cycling through a tiny nature reserve into the fisherman’s pulpit. Or cycle from Gmunden along lovely story-book village of St Gilgen and visit the western shore of Traunsee to Ebensee to the Mozart museum. Continue past the idyllic Gmunden soak in the spectacular fjord-type scenery. From Krottensee, down towards Mondsee beside Ebensee, cycle along the beautiful riverside the lake that offers plenty of opportunities for Mondsee route to Bad Ischl. swimming. 06-07 At Bad Ischl 11 Leave Mondsee Ebensee You’re spoilt for choice for things to see and do Weissenbach in Bad Ischl: the imperial spa, the Katrin cable car, the Siriuskogl viewing platform, museums Strobl Bad Ischl 106 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C10SZ CYCLING AUSTRIA ∙

LAKES

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES AUSTRIAN LAKES CYCLING • 8 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts and 3 evening meals CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Services of your local Headwater Representative HIGHLIGHTS • High Quality Bikes • Great for first-time cyclists, with some routes on traffic-free trails or cycle lanes • GPS route directions and map • Superb hotels, with delicious local cuisine • RideWithGPS navigation app • Lakeside routes: swimming opportunities every day • Luggage transfers between hotels

WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Leitnerbraü ­  01 Arrive in Mondsee Hotel Post  Arrive at the Hotel Leitnerbraü. There’s time to explore Mondsee before dinner. Landhotel Grünberg  02 Mondsee to Weissenbach 21KM (13MI) Hotel Goldenes Schiff Follow the shore of Mondsee to the pretty lakeside town of Unterach then on to Weissenbach. Your hotel here is the Hotel Post and dinner is included. CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 03 Weissenbach to Gmunden 42KM (26MI) 99E-Bikes Follow the eastern side of the lake through scenic Weyregg, where 1,000m peaks overlook the lake 99Extra Nights and poppies fill the fields. Stay at the Landhotel Grünberg for two nights, dinners included. 99City Break Add-on in Salzburg 04 At Gmunden 99Single Occupancy Take a trip on the Gisela, the last coal-fired paddle steamer, or take the cable car up Grünberg for 99Room Upgrades views of the 17th century Seeschloss Ort. 99Travel Options and Transfers

05 Gmunden to Bad Ischl 19KM (12MI) or 37KM (23.5MI) Take the boat across to Ebensee, stopping off at Traunkirchen’s famous church. Alternatively, cycle from Gmunden along the stunning, fjord-like shore of Traunsee to Bad Ischl for two nights. 06 At Bad Ischl There’s lots to see in Bad Ischl. Visit the imperial spa, the salt mines, the ice cave in Obertraun, or head to the Siriuskogl viewing platform. 8 NIGHTS FROM 07 At Bad Ischl 40KM (25MI) Cycle along the River Traun to the UNESCO village of Hallstatt, visit the salt mine museum and enjoy lunch at the lakeside before returning to Bad Ischl. £1345 08 Bad Ischl to Mondsee 43KM (27MI) With departures every two days from Cycle west to Strobl’s waterfront before heading past shimmering Wolfgangsee. Admire beautiful St 9th May to 20th September 2020 Gilgen, then head back to Mondsee for your last night. 09 Leave Mondsee

Gmunden

Mondsee

Ebensee

Weissenbach

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CUSTOMER RATING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 AUSTRIAN LAKE ACTIVITIES

Highlights

Luxury  hotel: secluded gardens, exquisite cuisine and wellness centre Postcard-pretty villages, lovely lakeside beaches, spectacular mountain views Fairytale city of Salzburg: Baroque palaces, Renaissance gardens, elegant coffee houses

108 MULTI-ACTIVITYCYCLING AUSTRIA ∙

LAKES

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Strobl 05 Free day exploring Salzburg Arrive at the  Hotel Bergrose in Strobl. Before dinner Take the bus to explore Mozart’s fairytale city of Salzburg. (included all week) your rep will go through suggestions for Discover a wealth of Baroque palaces, Renaissance gardens, your week - a typical itinerary is shown below, but you’re free elegant cafes and Europe’s oldest open-air theatre. to pick and choose your activities each day. 06 Cycle to Lake Nussen 14KM (9MI) 02 Cycle/Walk to St Wolfgang Cycle along country lanes and through rural hamlets bordered 15KM (9.5MI) CYCLE or 16KM (10MI) WALK by low Alpine meadows. Lunch at the popular Zur Wacht Head along the lake shore to St Wolfgang, renowned for its restaurant, then head down to beautiful Lake Nussen - a beautiful 15th century church and its maze of cobbled streets. hidden gem. Later, take the antique cog railway to the summit of the 07 Cycle/walk to Lake Schwarzen Schafberg (1,782m) for unrivalled Alpine views. 22KM (14MI) CYCLE or 14KM (9MI) WALK 03 Cycle to St Gilgen 28KM (17.5MI) Choose walking or cycling today: cross the valley and head Follow a flat cycling track alongside Lake Wolfgang’s southern up through the forest towards Lake Schwarzen. Have lunch shore through a tiny nature reserve to lovely St Gilgen. Visit basking in sunshine beneath the snow-capped mountains, Mozart’s museum or take the cable car up the Zwolferhorn before a delightful descent back to Strobl. for stunning views. 08 Leave Strobl 04 Cycle to Bad Ischl 26KM (16.5MI) CYCLE or 13KM (8MI) BUS/WALK Pedal to the spa town of Bad Ischl today. Visit Franz Josef’s Kaiservilla and the imperial hot spa that houses salt baths, steam room, hammam and Alhambra baths. Back to Strobl along the River Ischl.

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 7 nights single-centre accommodation • High Quality Bikes in a  hotel • GPS route directions and maps (for cycling) • All breakfasts and evening meals • RideWithGPS navigation app (for cycling) • Services of your local Headwater Representative • Walking route directions and maps WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hotel Bergrose  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes 99Single Occupancy 99Extra Nights 99Room Upgrades 99City Break Add-On in Salzburg 99Travel Options and Transfers

7 NIGHTS FROM St Gilgen £1155 St Wolfgang With departures every Saturday from 9th May to 19th September 2020 Bad Ischl Strobl

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GERMANY SLOVAKIA

PASSAU VIENNA MUNICH THE DANUBE BUDAPEST ZURICH AUSTRIA LAKE HUNGARY BERN CONSTANCEREGION DPS SWITZERLAND & MAPS

LAKE CONSTANCE THE DANUBE

Cover 3 countries as you cycle along dedicated paths past Follow the breath-taking river Danube to visit some of Europe’s lush vineyards, wildflower fields and cherry orchards around most iconic castles, royal strongholds and storybook villages Lake Constance, flanked by majestic Alpine peaks. It’s a across Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. With options region brimming with history and cultural highlights including from Passau to Vienna and Vienna to Budapest you can the fairytale castle in Meersburg and St Gallen’s UNESCO- discover the 11th Century Baroque Abbey at Melk and UNESCO- listed library, stop at striking Gothic cathedrals and Baroque celebrated Krems or Mosonmagyarovar, the charming old ‘city churches along the way, or simply relax at waterfront cafes. of 17 bridges’ and Esztergom, also known as Hungarian Rome. PAGE 114 PAGE 111

110 CYCLING GERMANY & AUSTRIA

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES PASSAU TO VIENNA CYCLING • 10 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  and  hotels • All breakfasts CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent HIGHLIGHTS • High Quality Bikes • Gentle cycling alongside the Danube, one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe • GPS route directions and maps • Hilltop castles, Baroque palaces, historic abbeys, ornate monasteries • Luggage transfers between hotels • Sunflower fields, vineyards, peach and apricot orchards WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Residenz  Hotel Donauschlinge  01 Arrive in Passau Hotel Wolfinger  Arrive at the Hotel Residenz in the heart of the old town. Landhaus Stift  23KM (14MI) 47KM (29MI) Hotel Zur Post  02 Passau to Schlögen or East to Obernzell, famous for pottery, before crossing into Austria and on towards Schlögen where Steigenberger Hotel & Spa  you will stay the night in the Hotel Donauschlinge. Hotel Nibelungenhof  Hotel Austria  03 Schlögen to Aschach (Linz) 27KM (17MI) or 46KM (29MI) Spot kingfishers in the Donauschlinge Nature Reserve, enjoy a waterfront picnic, then catch the Linz ferry, or follow the towpath to Ottensheim beach. Hop on the train to Linz and head to the Hotel CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP Wolfinger, where you’ll spend the night. 99E-Bikes 04 Linz to Ardagger 60KM (37MI) 99Tandems The route leads you away from the Danube to 12th century Enns, Austria’s oldest city, before returning 99Extra Nights to the Danube and your overnight stop in the beautiful little village of Ardagger. 99City Break Add-On in Munich 99Single Occupancy 05 Ardagger to Melk 50KM (31 MI) 99Room Upgrades Explore the small baroque town of Grein before cycling through the fertile Danube Valley for a lunch 99Half Board Upgrade stop in Ybbs, home to a quirky collection of penny-farthings. Pass the twin towers of Maria Taferl before arriving at the Hotel Zur Post. 06 At Melk Explore Melk’s Benedictine monastery or visit the castle and gardens at Schloss Schallaburg. 10 NIGHTS FROM

07 Melk to Krems 39KM (24.5MI) Follow the UNESCO Wachau Valley, through Durnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was held captive. £1355 Stay at the Steigenberger Hotel & Spa for two nights. With daily departures from 08 At Krems 4th April to 10th October 2020 Explore the beautiful historic centre – visit the Wine Museum and the 13th century abbey - or cycle to Schloss Grafenegg, a gargoyle-encrusted Gothic castle set in 85 acres of parkland.

09 Krems to Tulln 41KM (26MI) Freewheel down-river to Tulln, known as the ‘Town of Roses’, then pop into the Roman museum and Passau dine out amid the fountains, statues and ornate buildings in the pretty centre. Stay the night at the Hotel Nibelungenhof. Schlögen Krems 10 Tulln to Vienna 22KM (13.5MI) or 41KM (26MI) Tulln Coast along the last stretch and relax over lunch in imperial Klosterneuburg. Hop on the train for the Linz Melk last stretch to the Hotel Austria and enjoy dinner out in Vienna. Ardagger Vienna 11 Leave Vienna

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YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING THE DANUBE FROM • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels • All breakfasts PASSAU TO VIENNA • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • Luggage transfers between hotels HIGHLIGHTS • Train ticket Krems to Tulln (incl. bike) • Delve into the rich culture and historical architecture of Vienna • Wine tasting at a traditional Heuriger • Ride on dedicated cycle routes through breath-taking valleys and baroque towns • Visit turreted castles, monasteries and striking palaces along the Danube WHERE YOU’LL STAY Typical accommodation is listed below: ITINERARY BY DAY Hotel Passauer Wolf  01 Arrive in Passau 05 Grein to Melk 50KM (31MI) Hotel Donauschlinge  Arrive at your hotel in Passau, the city of three Cycle through the fascinating landscape of tall Arcotel Nike  rivers, with time to explore at your leisure. and densely wooded rock formations on both Wellnesshotel Aumühle  sides of the Danube. Taking you through quiet Hotel Zur Post  02 Passau to Schlögen 40KM (25MI) riverside towns, we pass stronghold castles Hotel Klinglhuber  Leave Passau, cycle from Germany into that were positioned to exert power over the Courtyard by Marriott Vienna Prater  Austria along one of the most significant river area. Your journey will end at one of the most landscapes of Central Europe, the Danube. striking edifices, the Benedictine abbey at Melk - The trail runs beside densely wooded slopes stunning both inside and out, you can’t miss it! CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP and ravine forests, passing the only Trappist monastery in Austria at Engelhartszell before 06 Melk to Krems 40KM (25MI) 99E-Bikes 99Single Occupancy continuing to the famous Schlogener Loop. This morning you ride through the magnificent 99Extra Nights 99Half Board Upgrade Wachau terraced vineyards, one of Austria’s 99City Break Add-On 99Travel Options 03 Schlögen to Linz 50KM (31MI) best-known wine regions, steeped in century- in Munich The valley narrows as it continues downstream, old traditions of wine production. The route passing the beautiful castle of Ottensheim. winds between the picturesque villages of Spitz, Enjoy a day of river crossings and cycling Weisenkirchen and Durnstein, with castles along country lanes, entering the fertile plains continuing to dot the landscape. Make pit stops of the grand Eferdinger basin before reaching 7 NIGHTS FROM along the way to experience Austrian hospitality the historic Cistercian Abbey at Wilhering. The in small local taverns. Finish your journey trail continues to Linz, towards the central enjoying a wine tasting in the 1000 year old town £845 Hauptplatz, a good place to start exploring the of Krems. old town. With departures every Saturday from 07 Krems to Vienna 40KM (25MI) 4th April to 10th October 2020 04 Linz to Grein 60KM (37MI) Today starts with a train ride from Krems We experience a change of scenery today as to Tulln, riding past Greifenstein and the route guides you away from the Danube, via Klosterneuburg. You will pass many castles, St Florian (an Augustinian abbey) to Enns. See CZECH REPUBLIC including the storybook Kreuzenstein Castle the town square with its 60m high tower, the GERMANY in Korneuburg. When in Vienna, enjoy a cup landmark of the oldest town in Austria, end the of coffee and a piece of typical Viennese cake, day at the beautiful baroque town of Grein. ‘Sachertorte’, in one of its traditional coffee Passau Krems Danube Schlogen houses. Vienna Linz Danube 08 Leave Vienna Grein Melk

AUSTRIA 112 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/C07LA CYCLING AUSTRIA, SLOVAKIA & HUNGARY

NEW

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CYCLING FROM VIENNA TO • 7 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in  hotels and pensions • All breakfasts BUDAPEST • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • High Quality Bikes CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • GPS route directions and maps • Luggage transfers between hotels HIGHLIGHTS • Boat ticket incl. transfer of bikes • Cycle 3 countries in 1 week, following the breath-taking river Danube • Coffee and cake in a special coffee house in • Discover the historic cities of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest Bratislava • Visit iconic castles, royal palaces and charming villages WHERE YOU’LL STAY ITINERARY BY DAY Typical accommodation is listed below: 01 Arrive in Vienna 05 Gyor to Komarom 55KM (34MI) Arcotel Kaiserwasser  Arrive at your hotel in Vienna, with time to Follow a gently rolling landscape towards Hotel Devin  explore at your leisure. Bony, ending in Komarom. Detour to Babolna, a Hotel Lajta Park  well cultivated town with a beautiful inner city, Barokk Hotel Promenád  02 Vienna to Bratislava 68KM (42MI) famous for the National Stud horses. The final Penzión Bella  The route takes you through extensive flood part of the route takes you back to the Danube Wellness Hotel Visegrád  plains, following the Donauinsel, a long, thin and onwards to the divided town of Komarom/ NH Hotel Budapest City Center  island and continues to one of Austria’s most Komarno, where you can enjoy a relaxing spa important archaeological sites, the Roman visit. remains at Petronell-Carnuntum. End your day CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP in the gothic old town of Bratislava, Slovakia’s 06 57KM (35MI) Komarom to Visegrád 99E-Bikes pretty capital city and culinary hotspot that Pedal along the riverbanks in the flat Danube 99City Break Add-Ons exudes old world charm. Valley, passing quaint villages and lush 99Single Occupancy vineyards. Those interested in the history of 03 Bratislava to Mosonmagyarovar 44KM (27MI) 99Half Board Upgrade the area should plan some time for the Roman After a short cycle through Slovakia, you cross archaeological site of Kelemantia. The highlight the Hungarian border into Rajka. Cycle past of the day however, is Esztergom, which boasts storybook villages, where you can still find the largest Basilica in the country. Afterwards, traditional thatched-roofed farm houses. Your 7 NIGHTS FROM board a riverboat to Visegrád. route guides you through the Szigetkoz (a small Rye island) towards Mosonmagyarovar; the 07 Visegrád to Budapest 56KM (34MI) £875 charming old ‘city of 17 bridges’. The city centre From Visegrád, you reach the Danube Bend, is noteworthy for its impressive collection of arguably one of the most attractive sections of With departures every Saturday from Baroque buildings. the Danube bike trail. Here, the river winds its 18th April to 3rd October 2020 way through the Visegrád Mountains. The Royal 04 Mosonmagyarovar to Gyor 41KM (25MI) Palace, Castle of Visegrád, and the open-air Today, you follow a flat cycling route as it museum are a must see, as is the old Baroque takes you through the outstanding natural town of Szentendre. Choose to cycle on towards surroundings of the island between the Danube AUSTRIA SLOVAKIA Budapest or take a leisurely boat ride into the and the Mosoni Duna (Small Danube). Make a Vienna Bratislava centre of the city to appreciate its stunning Danube stop to see Hedervar Castle, before arriving in Petronell-Carnuntum architecture. Danube the colourful town of Gyor, to take in its sights Mosonmagyarovar Esztergom Bend and breathtaking historic centre. 08 Leave Budapest Hedervar Györ Komarom Szentendere Budapest

Danube HUNGARY

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Stein am Meersburg Rhein Friedrichshafen Konstanz

Bregenz Arbon

CUSTOMER RATING CYCLING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 LAKE CONSTANCE CYCLING

Highlights Beautifully flat, flexible cycling along dedicated lakeside paths Interest-packed routes; Baroque churches, Gothic cathedrals, fairytale palaces, romantic castles Postcard-pretty villages, half-timbered, frescoed towns, cafe-lined waterfronts and stunning mountain views Wild flower fields, vineyards and cherry orchards

114 CYCLING AUSTRIA, GERMANY & SWITZERLAND

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Bregenz 06 Stein am Rhein to Konstanz 45KM (28.5MI) You arrive at the Hotel Weisses Kreuz, an historic coaching Cross the German border to the Hornstaad Nature Reserve inn, based in the centre of Bregenz. and UNESCO-listed Klosterinsel Reichenau. Arrive at the Hotel Halm and take a gentle stroll before dinner. 02 Bregenz to Arbon 24KM (15MI) or 41KM (26MI) Cycle along Lake Constance’s southern shore to cross the 07 At Konstanz mighty Rhine delta, an area of great natural beauty and a Enjoy the narrow streets in the centre of Konstanz and visit refuge for wildlife. Arbon awaits with its pretty half-timbered the Altstadt and Münster, or hop on a boat (payable locally) to houses and 16th century castle. Stay at the Hotel Seegarten visit Mainau Island’s delightful palace and landscaped rose for two nights. gardens.

03 At Arbon 08 Konstanz to Friedrichshafen 25KM (16MI) Explore Arbon’s historic old town with its well-preserved It’s a short ride to catch the ferry (included) to Meersburg buildings, then after lunch on the lakeside, hop on the bus to with its twin castles and hillsides of vines. Stay at the Hotel historic St Gallen to visit the Benedictine abbey’s UNESCO Buchhorner Hof. library. 09 At Friedrichshafen Explore Friedrichshafen’s amazing Zeppelin Museum or enjoy 04 Arbon to Stein am Rhein 42KM (26.5MI) or 59KM (37MI) Pedal clockwise around the lake while passing numerous superb wine tasting. waterfront villages and their panoramic sun terraces. In the 10 Friedrichshafen to Bregenz 33KM (21MI) afternoon, coast effortlessly between sleepy harbours to Stein Pedal past pretty villages and peaceful vineyards to the am Rhein and the Hotel Rheinfels for two nights. gorgeous island village of Lindau. Head lakeside to Bregenz 05 At Stein am Rhein with its cable car up Pfänder Mountain for a fantastic vista Explore medieval Stein am Rhein or take a riverside cycle of your entire route and return to the Hotel Weisses Kreuz in path to Schloss Laufen. time for dinner. 11 Leave Bregenz YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 10 nights hotel to hotel accommodation in a mix of  • High Quality Bikes and  hotels • Route directions and maps • All breakfasts • Luggage transfers between hotels • Services of your local Headwater-appointed agent • Ferry ticket from Staad to Meersburg WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Hotel Weisses Kreuz  Hotel Halm ­  Hotel Seegarten  Hotel Buchhorner Hof­  Hotel Rheinfels  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99E-Bikes 99Half Board Upgrade 99Extra Nights 99Travel Options 99Single Occupancy 99Room Upgrades

10 NIGHTS FROM £1285 With departures every two days from 11th April to 10th October 2020 Also available as a 7 night trip from £965

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Whether you’re taking in the beautiful natural scenery, enjoying a glass of wine over a delicious dinner, or gently cycling through the charming landscapes, our Guided Holidays make for a perfect opportunity to mingle with fellow cyclists and make some new friends. Whether you’re travelling alone or as a couple, our trips guarantee plenty of camaraderie. Accompanied by a highly experienced, passionate and knowledgeable local guide. Whatever your preference, our guided cycling programme is designed to highlight the best each country and region has to offer.

116 PORTO TO LISBON ATLANTIC RIDE Take in beautiful sun-kissed beaches, colourful fishing villages and undulating coastal trails across the Atlantic Coast of Portugal for an unforgettable adventure. Starting in the UNESCO architectural gem of Porto, enjoy local wine tastings with your guide, before cycling through Sao Jacinto dunes and lush pine forests, ending the adventure in the vibrant streets of Lisbon.

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CYCLING THE DALMATIAN COAST Bask in the beauty of Croatia’s stunning seaside villages, tiny medieval towns and pretty pebble bays as you journey across the Dalmatian Coast, while island- hopping in Hvar and Korcula. Taking you from lush vineyards to crystalline waters and bleached white sands we guide you towards the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik, for an enchanting finish to the trip. headwater.com/C07DA

CYCLING IN GREECE Delve into the rich history, fascinating archaeological relics and Greek mythology, cycling in the Peloponnese. Passing by the temple of Poseidon on Poros Island, through the ancient site of Epidaurus and the beautiful town of Nafplio, we reach the towering Acropolis in Athens and visit Athens’ most iconic monuments, such as the Ancient Panathenaic Stadium and Monastiraki Square.

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As well as our holidays in Europe and the UK, we offer a host of similar interest-packed holidays to further-flung destinations. Whether you want to cycle through the intricate ancient complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, cross a patchwork of glistening rice paddies in Vietnam or enjoy the unique circular route across the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, our exhilarating Long Haul Trips are the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture.

CYCLE INDOCHINA & ANGKOR Enjoy an unforgettable country-hopping adventure in South-East Asia, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the vibrant floating markets of the Mekong Delta, ending the adventure in the incense-infused alleys of Ho Chi Minh City. Cycling across the most diverse landscapes, this trip is bound to leave a lasting impression. Pedal past the ancient town of Ayuttaya and Eucalyptus plantations in Thailand to the stunning Angkorian temples in Siem Reap and finish the trip enjoying the scenic route through fruit orchards along the Mekong riverbank.

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118 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com CYCLE THE CAPE AND WINELANDS From fantastic cycling sights across the Cape Peninsula, wine tastings in the famous estate of Stellenbosch and a visit to Cape Algulhas, the southernmost point of Africa, this cycling holiday encompasses the best highlights in the region. On your journey, enjoy pedalling towards the Nuy Valley and passing by old settlements on your way to the Greet Karoo, that’s dotted with remains of ancient Bushman cultures. The adventure ends cycling to Hermanus, where you may catch a glimpse of the Southern Right Whale in this secluded bay.

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Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com 119 Snow REGION BY REGION

REYKJAVIK ICELAND

ICELAND

Witness the enigmatic Northern Lights on our Aurora trip to Iceland, where roaring waterfalls, grand icebergs and mighty volcanoes dot the NORWAY horizon. Venture towards the Skeidararsandur floodplains to see cobalt blue glaciers, complete the Golden Triangle of Gullfoss Waterfall Discover spectacular gorges and snow covered and visit bubbling geysirs, before ending the valleys as far as the eye can see as guests at adventure in Thingvellir National Park. the ever welcoming Venabu Fjellhotel, on the REGIONPAGE 126 edge of the Rondane National ParkDPS overlooking the Gudbrandsdalen Valley. These dramatic landscapes offer the perfect opportunity for cross-country skiing and dog-sledding, and if you’re lucky, you can catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights! & MAPSPAGE 122

SWEDEN

Just off the frozen shores of the Lulea Archipelago in the Gulf of Bothnia, lies the charming Pine Bay Lodge. Discover this SWITZERLAND spectacular winter wonderland travelling on snowmobile across the frozen Baltic Sea and enjoy winter activities that include a husky Enjoy cross-country skiing with breath-taking safari, ice-fishing and hiking through pine mountain views and glistening cross-country forests in search of the Northern Lights. trails in the heart of Bernese Oberland. Kandersteg is a perfect chocolate-box alpine PAGE 126 village, nestled in Switzerland’s verdant valleys and remarkable glacier-clad peaks. Take a cable car to Oeschinen or Sunnbuel and in the evenings relax in your Swiss chalet hotel, enjoying an excellent array of traditional dishes. PAGE 125 120 ÄKÄSLOMPOLO

LULEÅ

FINLAND

VENABU

HELSINKI FINLAND

Surrounded by the seven softly rounded snow- capped fells in the Pallas-Yllastunturi National NORWAY STOCKHOLM Park, the Lappish village of Äkäslompolo boasts OSLO the most designated cross-country ski trails in the whole of Finland. Follow freshly prepared ski tracks through peaceful forest, over frozen lakes and through white unspoilt nature by SWEDEN day, then keep your eyes to the skies for the REGION DPScelebrated Aurora by night. PAGE 124 & MAPS

AUSTRIA

Boasting over 250km of prepared cross-country skiing trails, Leutasch and Seefeld sit high on a south facing plateau, surrounded by the towering limestone peaks of the Wetterstein and Karwendel Alps. The host of last year’s Cross-Country Ski Championships, explore this spectacular region on skis , snowshoes or on foot, then relax and VIENNA enjoy the comfort and excellent facilities of your  family run hotel.

LEUTASCH & PAGE 127 SEEFELD AUSTRIA BERN SWITZERLAND

KANDERSTEG 121 CYCLINGSNOW NORWAY

GUIDED

CUSTOMER RATING SKIING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING AT VENABU

Highlights Traditional, family run hotel - a home away from home and a firm Headwater favourite! Excellent value with tuition, ski excursions, equipment hire and all meals included Away from the crowds skiing, suitable for beginner, improver and intermediate skiers A snow-sure resort with skiing from the hotel doorstep 122 CYCLINGSNOW NORWAY

ITINERARY BY DAY

01 Arrive in Venabu extend as far as the eye can see. Lunch each day – a copious Take the transfer (3 hours) from Oslo Airport to Venabu just Norwegian buffet - is taken back at the hotel before returning in time for your first dinner - a plentiful Scandinavian buffet to the snow plain to consolidate your technique or for further of traditional Norwegian fayre and tasty regional favourites. independent exploration. After a brief tour of the hotel, it’s back to the ski room to be 05 Optional snowshoeing or ski independently kitted out for the week, followed by a briefing of the week’s Today you are free to ski independently on one of the fantastic exciting activities. circuits straight from the hotel’s door. Alternatively, join your 02 Tuition with instructors guide on a snowshoeing tour over the Venabu plain, through Your first day on the snow will be an introduction to cross snowcapped forest and up into the hills to the spectacular country skiing techniques to settle you into the right group. ice fall of Myfallet (snowshoes are provided but the tour is After learning how to wax your own skis, you will be taught payable locally). the principles of gliding on snow. We break for lunch at the 06 - 07 Independent or group skiing hotel, then it’s back to the pistes (beginners have their own For the last two days in Venabu, there’s lots of opportunity flat nursery area!) to practice your skills from the morning’s to improve your technique with guided excursions of the tuition. vast yet untouched Gudbransdalen Valley. With over 140km 03 - 04 Cross-country skiing tour and tuition of picturesque tracks and tranquil trails, there’s plenty to Each morning, we start the day with a review of explore. Additional activities (see ‘Customise your Trip’) your technique, then it’s off to discover the stunning are also available and payable locally, as is further private Gudbransdalen Valley around Venabu. The impressive ski tuition and ski safaris (intermediate skiers only; 15th landscape is dramatic and full of contrasts, from spectacular February to 21st March). gorges and snow-capped peaks to pretty fells and valleys that 08 Leave Venabu YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES

• 7 nights single-centre accommodation in a  hotel • Ski Wax • All meals • Access to ski trails • Management by local hotelier • One yoga session • 5 days ski tuition and guided excursions • Group airport transfers • All ski equipment and snowshoe hire WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Venabu Fjellhotel, Venabu  CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP

99Ski Safari 99City Break Add-On in Oslo 99Guided snowshoeing 99Single Occupancy 99Dog Sledding 99Room Upgrades Available 99Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides 99Travel Options and Transfers 99Private Ski Tuition 9914 Night Duration

Venabu

7 NIGHTS FROM £1359 With selected Saturday departures from Tretten 14th December 2019 to 11th April 2020

Lillehammer

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/K07NV 123 SNOW FINLAND NEW

Self GUIDED

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CROSS COUNTRY SKIING • 7 nights single centre accommodation in a  hotel • Daily buffet breakfast IN LAPLAND • Management by your local hotelier • Use of the cross country trails • Use of the hotel’s sauna and Arctic Spa SKIING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Airport transfers HIGHLIGHTS • A cross country skier’s paradise, with the most designated ski tracks in Finland WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Snow sure destination with the opportunity to see the Northern Lights Ylläshumina Hotel  • Enjoy snowmobiling, husky rides, snowshoeing, downhill skiing and more CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP A TYPICAL ITINERARY 99Single Occupancy 01 Arrive In Äkäslompolo 99Room Upgrades Available We meet you at Kittila airport and take you to the Lappish village of Äkäslompolo (45 mins), where you 99Half Board Upgrade Available will spend the week at the family run Ylläshumina Hotel. You stay on a bed and breakfast basis with 99Ski Equipment Hire the option of upgrading to half board. 99Ski Tuition 02-07 Suggested Activities 99Guided Ski Excursions The hotel’s convenient ski service will help you to get kitted out with your skis, boots and poles* on 99Guided Snowshoeing Excursions your first morning. Then with freshly groomed ski trails direct from the hotel’s door and over 300km 99Husky Rides of designated tracks to discover, you can choose which trail to follow depending on your skiing ability 99Snowmobiling and local weather conditions, for leisurely independent exploration. 99Fat Biking 99Alpine Skiing The trails vary from flat and easy to more demanding routes into the fells of the Pallas Yllästunturi 99Travel Options and Transfers National Park, and there are even 40km of tracks that are illuminated at night for superb skiing in the atmospheric twilight of the Polar Night in December and into January. The intricate network of signposted trails crisscross and intercept each other, so your route can even be changed halfway through, giving countless alternatives through the pristine, snow covered landscape. For those wishing to try cross-country skiing for the first time, improve their technique, or master the art of skating, ski tuition can be arranged*, as can guided group excursions*. Further optional activities are listed under ‘Customise your Trip’. 7 NIGHTS FROM Just 200km from the Arctic Circle, this far north there are good opportunities to glimpse the celebrated Northern Lights. Street lights here are turned off at 10pm to showcase this extraordinary £709 natural phenomenon. Admire from the hotel or take to your snowshoes as night falls in a guided search* over the snow for the Aurora. With departures every Sunday from 1st December 2019 to 21st March 2020 When you fancy a day off from skiing, a convenient ski bus connects Äkäslompolo with the impressive Snow Village - constructed by artists from around the globe who come here each year to design and sculpt this intricately chiselled ice hotel. Or take the chair lift to the summit of 719m high Yllästunturi Fell to savour the views at the highest restaurant in Finland. Kittilä 08 Leave Äkäslompolo Äkäslompolo

* Supplements apply

Arctic Circle Rovaniemi

124 Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/K07FL SNOW SWITZERLAND NEW

Self GUIDED

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CROSS COUNTRY SKIING • 7 nights single-centre accommodation in a  hotel • All breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches and IN KANDERSTEG 7 evening meals • Management by your local hotelier • Cross Country Trails Map SKIING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Local bus card • 7 day Cross Country Ski Pass HIGHLIGHTS • Stay in a picture-postcard Swiss village in the heart of the Bernese Oberland • Enjoy excellent 4-5 course meals every evening, with regional specialities WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Breath-taking mountain views and glistening cross-country skiing trails, suitable for all abilities Hotel Alfa Soleil 

ITINERARY BY DAY CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 01 Arrive In Kandersteg 99Cross Country Ski Equipment Hire Transfers can be arranged from the local station to the traditional, family run 3-star Alfa Soleil 99Cross Country Ski Lessons hotel, your accommodation throughout your holiday situated on the edge of the picture postcard 99Cable car/Gondola passes Alpine village of Kandersteg. Here you will receive a welcome drink and a briefing by the hotel team, 99Extra nights where you will be given a map and an explanation of the best trails in Kandersteg. The team are very 99Single Occupancy knowledgeable and will talk to you about the region. This evening enjoy an excellent 4 course dinner 99Room Upgrades Available in the hotel’s restaurant. 99Travel Options and Transfers 02 - 07 Suggested itinerary Explore the myriad of trails that surround the village of Kandersteg at your own leisure. Cross-country skiing is a must on Kandersteg’s tracks (loipe) which cover flat and hillier terrain, enabling you to discover beautiful winter landscapes away from the confines of the alpine piste. If you wish to go further afield, you can also purchase cable car tickets for Gondelbahn Kandersteg to Oeschinen and Luftseilbahn Kandersteg to Sunnbuel at an additional cost. For those that want to hone their skiing skills, you can also add private cross country skiing lessons at the local expert ski school to make the most of your time on the slopes. 7 NIGHTS FROM Your hosts, the charming Seiler family, will provide you with a Regional Travel Pass giving you unlimited use of the local bus network. When you feel like a rest from skiing, there’s an elegant lounge, swimming pool, sauna, solarium and gym to keep you entertained. In the evening, you will £915 receive 4 or 5 course dinners each evening, offering a great array of traditional dishes from the region With departures every two days from in Nico’s restaurant. 11th January to 14th March 2020 08 Leave Kandersteg Also availble as a 5 night trip from £735 This morning, transfer can be arranged to Kandersteg station.

SWITZERLAND

Kandersteg Oeschinensee

Sunnbüel

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/K07AF 125 SNOW ICELAND & SWEDEN GUIDED GUIDED

ACTIVITY LEVEL ACTIVITY LEVEL

1 1+ 2 2+ 3 1 1+ 2 2+ 3

ICELAND NORTHERN LIGHTS SWEDISH ACTIVITY WEEK

HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS • A chance to see the Northern Lights in amazing landscapes • Snowmobile excursion on frozen sea • The Golden Triangle of Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir and Thingvellir N.P • Northern Lights snowshoe walk • Glacier walking and the amazing Glacial Lagoon • Candle light dinner in remote Aurora Hideaway

ITINERARY BY DAY ITINERARY BY DAY 01 Arrive in Reykjavik 01 Arrive in Luleå Explore Reykjavik. Evening briefing at the hotel. 02 Nordic winter skills. Free afternoon 02 Seljalandsfoss to Reynisfjara Our guides take us on a three-hour journey into the nearby forests and lead We leave Reykjavik and drive east to the 60m-high waterfall, us through an adventurous and educational excursion learning about the Seljalandsfoss, where we can walk behind the cascade. Continue on local natural environment. We finish with a barbecue lunch near the lake. through a starkly beautiful countryside and view the remnants of the Free afternoon for an optional excursion. 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcano eruption, then continue along the coast to the 03 Snowmobile excursion. Free afternoon. Aurora hideaway dinner. Skógafoss Waterfall and stop off at the Skóga Museum (entrance payable We head on to the glistening ice and islands of the Luleå Archipelago on a locally). We stop at Reynisfjara’s black volcanic beach, then end our journey snowmobile. Weather permitting, we will reach island Brändöskär in the across the Myrdalssandur floodplains before arriving at our hotel, the Laki. outermost archipelago. We will see endless fields of pack ice and snow, 03 Skeidararsandur to Svinafellsjokull some as high as 10 metres. Lunch is cooked on an open fire before heading We head to the Skeidararsandur floodplains and the glacier of back to Pine Bay Lodge where we enjoy a few hours free before tonight’s Svinafellsjokull where we use crampons and ice axes. The glacier – activity. At the Aurora Hideaway we’ll eat and look for the Northern Lights. thousands of years in the making – offers a wonderful photo opportunity 04 Dogsledding, free time and evening visit to a local astronomer. with its brilliant blue ice. Under certain circumstances, we may head to the Today we drive out to a local husky kennel for a fantastic adventure. Solhimajokull further south for an equally breath-taking experience. Travel After learning to control the husky team we drive them out on a long loop onwards to beautiful Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, created in the 1950s as through the forest. We return to the lodge for lunch, followed by an optional the glacier retreated from the coastline, leaving a 300m-deep, 20sq km excursion. In the evening we visit a local astronomer. lake littered with icebergs. Walk the beach with its large chunks of ice washed up on black volcanic sand, then we drive back to our hotel. 05 Ice fishing. Free afternoon. We head out for two hours of ice-fishing on the frozen sea near Pine Bay 04 Selfoss to Reykjavik Lodge. The afternoon is free for an excursion or relaxing at the lodge. We travel inland from Selfoss and stop off for lunch in the Fridhheimar greenhouses. Afterwards, head to the mighty Gulfoss Waterfall followed by 06 Free day. Northern Lights snowshoe a visit to Geysir, home to inimitable hot spouts and the 5-10 eruptions of Enjoy one of the longer excursions such as the Hovercraft Pack Ice Tour. Strokkur firing jets of hot water and steam 30m into the air. The final stop Alternatively relax at the hotel. In the evening we head out on a snowshoe is Thingvellir National Park before we then return to our hotel in Reykjavik. tour in search of the Northern Lights. 05 Leave Reykjavik 07 Transfer to Luleå Airport and departure

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES • 4 nights comfortable  Hotels • 6 nights premium lodge with en suite rooms and shared sauna • All breakfasts included • 5 days of mixed activities • Tour leader throughout • Transport by private minibus and snowmobile • Transport by air-conditioned minibus • All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners • Transfer for group flights WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Arctic clothing Hotel Klettur  Hotel Laki  WHERE YOU’LL STAY Pine Bay Lodge 

4 NIGHTS FROM 6 NIGHTS FROM

£1449 £2199 Geysir Brandon Pine Bay Lodge Reykjavik Skaftafell With departures on selected With selected Sunday departures Gullfoss Luleå Ke avik Blue Jokulsarlon Lagoon dates from 23rd October 2019 from 25th January to 22nd

Skogafoss to 8th April 2020 February 2020 126 For more details visit headwater.com/K04IC For more details visit headwater.com/K06SL SNOW AUSTRIA GUIDED

YOUR HOLIDAY INCLUDES CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING AT • 7 nights single-centre accommodation in a  hotel • Buffet breakfast, afternoon coffee and cake LEUTASCH AND SEEFELD and evening meals • Services of your Headwater employed leader • Ski equipment hire and lessons CUSTOMER RATING SKIING ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 1+ 2 2+ 3 • Ski bus pass and ski pass HIGHLIGHTS • Group airport transfers • Luxury  hotel with heated indoor pool, saunas, steam bath and jacuzzi • 250km of immaculately groomed cross-country skiing trails; guided and independent choices WHERE YOU’LL STAY • Pretty villages, onion-domed churches, cosy mountain cafés Hotel Hubertushof, Reindlau, Leutasch 

TYPICAL ITINERARY BY DAY CUSTOMISE YOUR TRIP 01 Arrive in Leutasch 05 Free Day 99Winter Walking Arrival at the family run Hotel Hubertushof in Consolidate your skills on the trails from the 99Snow Shoeing the Leutasch valley. Time to get kitted out with Hotel Hubertushof along the Leutasch valley 99Sleigh Rides your ski equipment for the week and take a or try your hand at the other snow activities 99Alpine Skiing dip in the pool before your first night’s dinner. available locally including snowshoeing and 99Extra Nights Available Evening meals are included all week, along with sleigh rides. Alternatively, take the bus to explore 99Room Upgrades Available afternoon snacks. Seefeld or the beautiful city of Innsbruck. 99Single Occupancy 02 Introduction to cross-country skiing 06 Scharnitz Valley Trails 99Travel Options and Transfers We start the day with a briefing on the cross- Today we explore the trails of the picturesque country area, familiarisation on signage and Scharnitz valley. Head up the valley across open etiquette of the trails. Beginners are introduced meadows and along undulating forest tracks to basic cross-country skills and an initial ski with only the sound of your skis on the crisp along the Leutasch valley. More experienced snow. There’s a final descent into Scharnitz skiers can regain their ski legs on the flat blue (the last town in Austria) before a well earned trails of Platzl and Obern. Glühwein in a local café. 03 Mittenwald Trail 07 The Wildmoos Plateau Today we cross the short distance into Germany We gain more altitude today as we make our 7 NIGHTS FROM and start out on the trail at Mittenwald - a great way up onto the Wildmoos Plateau (at 1250m, flat, tree-lined run - and continue along the the highest point we can ski), either on skis or crystal clear waters of the river Isar. Wander the less strenuous option of the local ski bus. £1505 around the pretty town of Mittenwald, with its The plateau offers varied terrain to cater for all With selected Saturday departures from traditional Bavarian painted church and houses, abilities and the possibility of spectacular views 21st December 2019 to 7th March 2020 before we head back to Leutasch. over both the Leutasch and Seefeld valleys. We take time for a stop-off at the world famous 04 Buchenhohe, Muggenmoos and Seefeld Wildmoos Alm to sample Herr Ridel’s homemade We start with a drive or ski up to the Buchenhohe strudel before making our way back to the Hotel area, before an exhilarating ski through the trees Hubertushof. Scharnitz to the beautiful, high meadow of Muggenmoos and lunch in a charming mountain café. Then 08 Leave Leutasch it’s on to Seefeld and its Olympic arena – the Leutasch venue of last year’s World Championships. Here beginners can ski the easy trails while more experienced skiers can take the more Seefeld challenging trail towards Mosern.

Call an expert on 01606 828566 or for more details visit headwater.com/K07LS 127 KEY BOOKING INFORMATION

BELOW IS SOME INFORMATION THAT YOU MAY FIND USEFUL IN RELATION TO YOUR BOOKING AND HOLIDAY. FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS CAN BE FOUND AT: WWW.HEADWATER.COM/BOOKING-CONDITIONS

1. REFER TO OUR WEBSITE 3. BOOKING ON A FLIGHT INCLUSIVE OR Please note, however, that for certain travel arrangements, the cancellation charge may be higher than those shown; please ask Our website features the most up-to-date details for all our holidays. LAND ONLY BASIS your sales consultant for full details of cancellation charges at time Should there be a discrepancy between the information in the brochure Headwater holidays can be booked on a Land Only basis or with flights of booking. and the website, the information on the website will be considered included. When booking on a Flight Inclusive basis, Headwater complies the most up-to-date and accurate. with our responsibilities under the ATOL regime. For all packages (Flight Period before a departure Percentage of total booking Inclusive or not) we comply with the Package Travel and Linked Travel when notice of cancellation price payable on cancellation Regulations 2018. In the event of a significant change to travel plans 2. ABOUT THE HOLIDAY is received IS THIS HOLIDAY FOR YOU? by an airline, we are responsible for ensuring that you can complete All customers are expected to satisfy themselves prior to booking that your journeys in a reasonable timeframe and without additional cost More than 70 days before Loss of deposit they are fit and able to complete the itinerary of their chosen holiday as to yourself. Details of your rights under the Package Travel Regulations departure described in the brochure and on our websites. All our holidays feature can be found at headwater.com/key-rights Between 70 and 42 days 50% of holiday cost Activity Level icons as guides to the level of challenge the holiday before departure (inclusive) will involve. An explanation of each Activity Level can be found at FLIGHT COSTS AND SUPPLEMENTS headwater.com/cycling-ratings and headwater.com/walkng-ratings. Flight Inclusive prices include return flights from a London airport and Between 41 and 28 days 75% of holiday cost Please let your sales consultant know during the booking process UK departure tax. Our Flight Inclusive holiday prices include a base before departure (inclusive) if you have concerns and queries about any aspects of the itinerary. price for the flights, however this is always subject to availability at the time of booking as airfares are outside of our control. Where the 27 days or less before 100% of holiday cost PARTICIPATION cost of flights is higher than this base price, a flight supplement may departure (or failure to join On a guided group holiday it is necessary that you abide by the authority be applicable; your sales consultant will be able to advise you if this the holiday or failure to pay of the tour leader, who represents the Company. The tour leader is is the case. We can often arrange flights from regional airports too; any local payment due) not an employee of the Company, however they are appointed by your sales consultant will be able to advise you if this is the case. the Company to guide your holiday. If you commit any illegal act 6. OUR CONTRACT WITH YOU when on the holiday or if in the reasonable opinion of the tour TRANSFERS If you are travelling on the designated flights, return airport transfers As a Headwater customer you may have rights under the Package Travel leader or another person in authority your behaviour is disruptive, and Linked Travel Regulations 2018 where your booking amounts to a threatening or abusive, causes unnecessary inconvenience or will be included at the destination. If you are not travelling on designated flights, airport transfers may be at an additional cost package holiday. These are detailed here: headwater.com/key-rights. is causing or likely to cause damage to property, danger, distress Full terms and conditions apply to your booking and can be found here: or upset, disturbance or annoyance to others or puts any traveller unless shown in your documentation as a free or included transfer; please ask your sales consultant for transfer details during the booking headwater.com/booking-conditions. This link also includes information or our staff or agents in the UK or resort in any risk or danger, on on our Privacy Policy and our Data Protection Commitment. the telephone, in writing or in person, we may terminate your travel process. If you book on a Land Only basis, services start and end at the local joining point detailed in your documentation. arrangements without any liability on our part. IF WE CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR BOOKING We plan the arrangements for your tour many months in advance and PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS 4. HOW TO BOOK may occasionally have to make changes, most of which are minor. We ask you to let us know of any pre-existing conditions, illnesses, If you would like to make a booking you can contact us in several disabilities or recent surgeries that may affect your safety or other ways: directly over the telephone (01606 828566), by email at WHEN A MAJOR CHANGE (AS OUTLINED IN THE FULL TERMS people’s enjoyment of the holiday. Please email [email protected] [email protected], via our website www.headwater.com and the AND CONDITIONS ON OUR WEBSITE) OCCURS, YOU WILL to make us aware of any pre-existing medical conditions. There is no Live Chat function on our website, or through an approved travel agent. HAVE THE CHOICE OF EITHER: upper age limit on our tours, but as most holidays are quite active we a) Accepting the change; or b) Accepting a replacement tour from us may ask clients over the age of 80 a number of questions about their TRAVEL INSURANCE of equivalent or similar standard and price (at the date of the change), health and fitness. We also require you to advise us of any dietary It is an essential condition of joining a Headwater holiday that you if we are able to offer you one; or c) Cancelling your tour, in which requirements in advance of a tour. have an adequate and valid travel insurance policy for the full duration case you shall receive a full refund of all monies paid. of your holiday to cover the cost of medical treatment, cancellation ACCOMMODATION and curtailment, and the activities included in the holiday (including Some of our holidays are group holidays and require a certain number Our prices include accommodation based on two adults sharing a the maximum altitude reached). We recommend that you take out of participants to operate; we include details of normal group sizes twin or double room with ensuite facilities. Please speak to a sales insurance as soon as your booking is confirmed. on our website. In the unlikely event that a holiday does not reach the consultant if you would like to enquire about a single room and normal minimum, we may be forced to cancel the tour; a decision will associated additional supplements. 5. PAYMENT, CANCELLATIONS AND be made as early as possible and not later than four weeks before CHANGES departure. We reserve the right to confirm holidays on numbers lower KEY INFORMATION TO HELP YOU PREPARE than the minimum indicated and occasionally we may exceed the normal Important holiday documentation will be provided during the booking Unless stated otherwise during the booking process or in the full maximum. If at the time of booking your holiday is not guaranteed, process and prior to your holiday. If you have any queries or notice terms and conditions, the following applies: we strongly recommend that you do not make any non-refundable or any inaccuracies, please contact Headwater as soon as possible. non-changeable travel arrangements. We are able to provide basic advice to clients regarding passports DEPOSIT and visa requirements, but you should check with the appropriate You will be asked to pay a deposit at the time of booking of at least 7. YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION embassy, consulate or the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office £150 per person. You will be advised of your deposit at the time the for the exact requirements for your chosen tour and date of travel. booking is made and/or confirmed. You may also be required to pay ATBA PROTECTION British nationals require a full passport that is valid for six months on booking for any non-transferable and non-refundable items; your We will provide you with financial protection for package holidays you after the date of your scheduled return home. At the time of printing, sales consultant will advise you of this during the booking process. buy from us that do not include travel by air by way of a bond held no compulsory vaccinations were required for any of the holidays we Please note that for certain travel arrangements the deposit may be by ABTA. We are a member of ABTA; membership number Y0751. We feature, however we recommend you to check with your doctor about higher than those shown. are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s any inoculations required. If you are from an EU member state and are Code of Conduct. travelling within Europe, you should enquire about the European Health FINAL BALANCE Insurance Card (EHIC); this gives a certain degree of free medical care We will invoice you for the remainder of the cost of your holiday, which ATOL PROTECTION in many European countries but should not be considered a substitute must be paid prior to 70 days before departure. In certain cases, we All the flights and Flight Inclusive holidays in this brochure are for travel insurance. may request full payment more than 70 days before departure where, financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be for example, airlines require full payment on booking. supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure RISKS OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed Whilst we ensure that all activities are operated to the local legal MAKING CHANGES TO YOUR HOLIDAY on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for standard and that risk assessments are carried out annually, many Please contact Headwater as soon possible if you wish to make a change more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate of our holidays do carry an element of risk. We require that all the to your existing booking, wish to change to a different tour or wish to go to: www.caa.co.uk Our ATOL number is 2582. properties and transport we use comply fully with local regulations, change departure date. We will always endeavour to assist with the but we do not guarantee the same standards as in your home country. requested change, but this is subject to availability and payment may All holidays advertised in this brochure are operated by Exodus Travels If you choose to travel on this type of holiday, you must be prepared need to be made for non-refundable costs (for example from airlines) Limited, trading as Headwater Holidays, a member of the Travelopia to accept that this is all part of the experience. Outdoor activities are and other fees may also be applicable. Group of Companies. Registered number 1150160. Registered Office: weather dependent to an extent and some can become dangerous in Origin One, 108 High Street, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 1BD. certain conditions. We will take all reasonable care of you and expect CANCELLATION CONDITIONS that you will take sensible precautions yourself. You may cancel your tour at any time by providing written communication from the lead booker. As we start to incur costs from the time the contract is confirmed we will retain your deposit and will apply other cancellation charges as shown below. 128 TRAVEL AWARE – STAY SAFE & HEALTHY ABROAD

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the NHS have up-to- ADVICE CAN CHANGE SO CHECK REGULARLY FOR UPDATES date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more on For further information, please visit us at security, local laws, plus passport and visa information, see headwater.com/travel-advice travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/ Keep informed of current travel health news by visiting travelhealthpro.org.uk/

HEADWATER TRAVEL INSURANCE POLICY

Travel Insurance is an important part of any booking. At Headwater it is a condition of booking with us that everyone has travel insurance which includes cover for all activities featured as part of the trip. Please note we will require confirmation of your valid policy number together with the 24 hour medical emergency contact number for all bookings. For further details on Headwater’s specialist travel insurance, or to obtain a quotation, please contact us on 01606 828566.

WORLDWIDE ANNUAL EUROPEAN & WORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE ANNUAL MULTI-TRIP INSURANCE: SINGLE TRIP INSURANCE: MULTI-TRIP INSURANCE:

PLEASE CALL US FOR A QUOTE. PLEASE CALL US FOR A QUOTE. PLEASE CALL US FOR A QUOTE.

• Any number of trips permitted within one • Competitive rates available for trips of varying • Medical Expenses £10,000,000 year, including travel booked independently of durations; please call us for more information • Personal Liability £2,000,000 Headwater • Personal Accident £25,000 Please contact Headwater for details of all additional • Cancellation or Curtailment £3,000* This annual policy is not available to persons aged 66 charges which apply for persons aged 66 years or • Cancellation due to Delayed Departure £2,000 years and over at the time of arranging the insurance. more. • Personal Effects £2,000 Please note that there are a maximum number of • Legal Expenses £25,000 days for any single journey.

PLEASE NOTE Full details of the cover provided are shown on your policy document which will be sent to you upon receipt of payment of premium. Please read it carefully to ensure you understand the cover provided as this insurance is being offered on a Non Advised basis from a single insurer. Certain terms, conditions, exclusions and excesses apply, in particular cover is excluded for any pre-existing medical condition from which you or any person upon whom travel depends are suffering. If in doubt please contact our medical helpline in confidence on 01702 427 237. The policy document contains a 21 day Cooling Off Period, and includes details of how to claim and who to contact in the event of a medical emergency. Details correct at time of going to print. This insurance is arranged by Campbell Irvine Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Headwater is an Appointed Representative of Campbell Irvine Ltd. Their registration numbers can be checked with the FCA’s by visiting www.fca.org.uk or by contacting them on 0800 111 6768.

129 ESSENTIAL INFORMATION WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVELLING WITH HEADWATER

Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable CUSTOMER SATISFACTION RATINGS HOLIDAY ITINERARIES for choice and flexibility. On the holiday pages we Customer satisfaction ratings shown on the individual holiday pages Please note that the itineraries shown on the holiday pages are suggest the most popular routes, usually from a relate to holidays taken in the period October 2017 - September 2018. for general guidance only, and we reserve the right to change these London airport. However, you aren’t limited to these, subject to local weather conditions etc. we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit. CYCLE HELMETS The latest requirements for the wearing of cycling helmets in the IMAGES ACCOMMODATION European countries stated are: The images shown in this brochure and on our website are for illustrative purposes only. All accommodation detailed in this brochure has been inspected and France Mandatory for all children under 12 years classified by the authorities of the relevant countries. As there is no MEAL PLANS direct British equivalent of many classifications, the broad expression Spain Mandatory for all cyclists ‘hotels’ refers to all the different types of accommodation we use, from Details are clearly stated in the ‘What’s included’ box on the individual Portugal Mandatory for all cyclists using an e-bike friendly family-run B&B and country inns to luxury  hotels holiday pages. (where  is the country’s official hotel rating). Austria Mandatory for all children under 12 years PRICING The H symbol indicates the level of comfort for all accommodation not Slovenia Mandatory for all children under 15 years falling within the country’s official rating system and has been assessed All prices quoted in the brochure are in GBP. by us in a similar way to the star system used by the AA within the Croatia Mandatory for all children under 16 years UK. These accommodations are usually officially licensed, extremely REP/LOCAL AGENT SERVICES popular with customers and very much part of the country way of life. In countries where wearing a cycling helmet is mandatory (see above) In some areas, the hoteliers or local agents also act as our you are expected to bring your own helmet as we cannot guarantee representatives. Their contact details will be provided to you before Our prices include accommodation based on two adults sharing the availability of helmets for hire or purchase at your destination. If travel. a twin or double room with ensuite facilities for the number of nights you decide to hire or purchase a helmet at your destination the choice on our website reflect this. of helmet and its suitability are at your discretion and Headwater TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS & CAR HIRE will not be responsible for any issues or problems with helmets or PLEASE NOTE: other protective headwear. Note that if you do not have a helmet in Our air and air-rail inclusive arrangements are detailed on In Europe when requesting a room for three people either a double countries where it is mandatory, you will not be allowed to take part the individual holiday pages or on our website; here you will or twin room with an extra bed is often provided, which may be in any cycling element, which may mean that you are not able to find the most up to date timings and routes along with all UK regional cramped. continue with the tour and Headwater will not be responsible for any airport information. Should you prefer to travel to your destination by • Single rooms (even if you’ve paid a supplement) sometimes just costs you incur as a result. Eurostar and onward rail or take one of the various channel crossings offer privacy, and are often of a lower standard than doubles or twins. you can find all the details relating to these options on our website Even in countries where cycling helmets are not a legal requirement, • When requesting a room with twin beds in Austria, Croatia, Germany along with prices and what’s included. For holidays where car hire is we strongly recommend that all customers wear helmets while on or Switzerland a double bed frame with two single mattresses and not included in the standard package we can, of course, arrange car one of our cycling tours. You are expected to bring your own helmet as separate bedding are the norm. hire for you - contact us for details. we cannot guarantee the availability of helmets for hire or purchase • Some facilities, including swimming pools may not be available for at your destination. If you do decide to hire or purchase a helmet at early and late season holidays and the reduced prices shown on our TAXES your destination the choice of helmet and its suitability are at your website reflect this. discretion and Headwater will not be responsible for any issues or Departure/arrival taxes and visa charges which are payable locally • Any special children’s facilities are generally only available during problems with helmets or other protective headwear. If you choose to in cash are not included in the holiday price. Neither are local tourist school holidays. ignore our advice to wear a helmet or other protective headwear you taxes like the French taxe de sejour and Italian tassa di soggiorno (if Please see our website (using the link at the bottom of the individual understand that you do so at your own risk and that such action may charged), which are payable directly to your hotelier at the end of trip pages) for full details of the accommodation on each trip. affect the validity of your travel insurance. Cycling of all kinds has its your stay. dangers and accidents can happen from time to time. Please ensure BIKE HIRE that you are properly prepared for the riding you are going to undertake. WHAT YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES Should you require a Headwater bike for any extra nights booked in your Please contact us for exact prices before booking. holiday region (either before, after or in the middle of your holiday) EXTRA NIGHTS/CITY BREAKS The individual holiday pages provide information on inclusions however then an additional charge of £25 per day, per adult and £18 per day, These include accommodation (and meals where specified on our where we refer to: per child will be payable at time of booking. website), but not the cost of travel between airport/station and hotel. • High quality bikes - we will provide a fully equipped hybrid bike with panniers and bike lock or a child’s all-terrain bike. CHILDREN’S PRICES FOREIGN OFFICE TRAVEL ADVICE We can often offer prices for children, including infants (over 1 and • Canadian canoes or sit-on-top kayaks – we will provide paddles, Our holidays are run in adherence with the travel advice provided by under 12 on the date of the outward travel) when sharing a double/ helmets, buoyancy aids, 25 litre waterproof container, boat lock the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). For up to date travel twin room with two adults or two full fare paying passengers. Please and chain. Please see our website for age limitations and swimming advice please visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice, call 0207 008 contact us for details and prices. requirements for canoeing holidays. 1500 or email [email protected]. Further detailed information relating to the holidays can be found on GROUP SIZES the individual holiday pages or on our website. We may from time to time, operate holidays with lower or higher numbers than the group sizes. 130 HOW TO CONTACT US

01606 828566* [email protected] SOCIAL MEDIA

Call our friendly and knowledgeable sales Email us on the address above or use Enjoy regular posts on our Facebook and Twitter team to discuss your holiday requirements. the contact form on our website at pages, where we update you on what we’re up to, *Calls to our 01606 number from UK landlines cost headwater.com/contactus share interesting destination-specific news and the standard rate, but calls from mobiles may be higher. images, and let you know what’s happening in Please check with your network provider. various regions.

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You can contact us via the website, check (Core hours) Follow us on Twitter holiday availability or even ‘chat’ with our 9am - 6pm Monday to Friday @headwaterhols sales team (during office hours) using our 9am - 4pm Saturday live chat facility. Closed Sunday (please e-mail) See us on Instagram Times will change seasonally, so please check instagram.com/headwaterhols our website for up to date information

5 2020– 2021 CW8 1LE

headwater.com @ We’d love to hear from you. SPECIALISTS IN SELF-GUIDED HOLIDAYS SINCE 1985 Speak to one of our friendly team of experts for a personalised quote. sales 01606 828566 Our specialist walking brochure is also Our specialist walking brochure is also available. Order online at headwater.com Headwater, The Old School House, Chester Road, Northwich, Cheshire, Headwater, The Old School House, Chester Road, Northwich, Cheshire, 2020– 2021 CW8 1LE

headwater.com @ We’d love to hear from you. SPECIALISTS IN SELF-GUIDED HOLIDAYS SINCE 1985 Speak to one of our friendly team of experts for a personalised quote. sales 01606 828566 Our specialist walking brochure is also Our specialist walking brochure is also available. Order online at headwater.com Headwater, The Old School House, Chester Road, Northwich, Cheshire, Headwater, The Old School House, Chester Road, Northwich, Cheshire,