Cycling and Bike&Boat

2014 E-BIKE? YES, PLEASE! 11 MORE ON P. CYCLING AND BIKE&BOAT Self-guided and guided tours in Italy and France

Girolibero viale Margherita, 95 - I - 36100 Vicenza - tel. +39 0444 330724 - www.girolibero.com BROCHURE OVER FURTHER TOURS AND DETAILS ARE AVAILABLE

2014 50 ON OUR WEBSITE: DESTINATIONS IN ITALY, FRANCE, REST OF EUROPE www.girolibero.com

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4 A bit of history, a bit of philosophy and a bagful of gures Bike and Hotel 6 A… cycling holiday?! The classic bike trip: landscapes and the Great Outdoors, without the hassle 8 Which one’s for me? of logistical issues. You ride and soak in the views; we do Our bikes the rest. 10 p.37 12 Our workshop – the engine room of Girolibero

14 Accompanying material and backup

16 Greens, our bike guides Bike and Boat

A bike to get around during 18 Girolibero Roadbike – just the challenge the day and a boat for accommodation and meals. 20 Our boats in Italy Your oating hotel follows your journey along the waterways and gives you the 22 Our boats in France option of a lazy day on board. 24 Life on board doing “bike&boat” in style p.29 26 Exclusive chartering your own rivercruise

72 General conditions

Roadbike 74 How to book

Racing bike tours through some of the most scenic 75 Booking form regions in Italy. Glorious views, legendary ascents, unforgettable food and wine, inspirational historic towns. Adrenaline, cuisine and culture rolled into one.

p.65 GIROLIBERO Contact us Monday to Friday 8.30 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 18.30

Tel (+39) 0444 330724 Fax (+39) 0444 167930 [email protected] www.girolibero.com

Graphics: www.noparking.it

3 PIERPAOLO ROMIO Hello as ever at the helm 3 km by family tandem to take the kids to school and get himself to work MICHELA ROMIO all under control 6 km by e-bike to get to work

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

NO. OF STAFF NO. OF BIKES ANNUAL TOTAL KM OUR ITALIANS ON HOLIDAY SALES CLIENTS HAVE WITH GIROLIBERO COVERED BY BIKE

Year 2 24 912.045 € 200.000 700 2002

Year 7.500 2013 42 3.400.000 1.200

10.426.000 €

4 BROCHURE

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

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

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

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

FOREIGN VISITORS IN NO. OF COUNTRIES ITALIAN REGIONS YOUR ITALY WITH TRAVELLERS EXPLORED BY BIKE VISITED FAVOURITE GIROLIBERO BY BIKE & BOAT BY BIKE TOURS Bolzano–Verona– Venice, Loire Valley, Bike & Boat in Italy

12 40 4 1 OUR VERY FIRST TOUR Veneto, from 2002

3.800 26 10 WHERE DO ITALIANS CYCLE ON HOLIDAY? 7.500 Netherlands Germany Austria

5 Program-

ming NICOLA BOARIA at our of ces since the beginning of time 2 km by Girolibero bike (+ child seat) to get to work

A... CYCLING HOLIDAY ?!

IT’S THE EASIEST THING!

6 © Enrico Caracciolo EASY CYCLING HOLIDAYS GOOD REASONS OFF THE BEATEN TRACK We strive to ensure that you enjoy a manageable FOR CHOOSING In the tracks of Holland, Germany and and carefree cycling holiday, and we’ll go out of A HOLIDAY Austria, other European countries have our way to coordinate our services like ON TWO followed suit and developed their own clockwork. We select the most suitable hotels cycling networks. That is certainly the along the route; lay on a baggage transfer WHEELS case in Italy and France, where we have system that is punctual and ecient; we supply crafted our own itineraries. Ours are There are plenty of up-to-date background information and cycling travellers, both Italian and freeform routes which use the guides; provide the best bikes; guarantee our foreign, who year after established networks as much as assistance 7 days a week. year choose a cycling holi- possible – as well as other safe and quiet Our services, in a nutshell: day – and many of these backroads and country lanes, well away have already travelled from busy trac. with Girolibero. SELECTED HOTELS Biking it means: OUR FLEET OF BIKES We appreciate that after a day in the Over 1,200 citybikes, assembled by our Great Outdoors, there’s nothing better 1 own mechanics specifically with your than finding a welcoming choosing a needs in mind: light but tough frames; home-from-home in which to relax. “human-powered, puncture-resistant tyres; responsive We personally handpick all the hotels pedal-driven vehicle” breaks and gears; gel saddles in various which gets on our tours, mindful of your comfort as (Wikipedia) heights; plus mudguards and saddlebag the oxygen and blood well as their proximity to cycling paths racks. flowing – along with and any relevant local sites. For our Bike warmheartedness and a Our e-bikes are increasingly popular: & Boat tours we use boats that are either good dose of humour they’re up-to-scratch, reliable and brand new or up-to-scratch, with benefit from high-capacity batteries for adequate cabin space and excellent 2 even the longest of days. service on board. (See also pp. 10-11) staying in the Great Outdoors for 70% of BAGGAGE TRANSFER the time ASSISTANCE Most of our tours are itinerary-based, Can’t find your hotel? Trouble following and we personally take care of the 3 the route? Mechanical snag with your baggage transfer from hotel to hotel – hire bike? – No problem: Girolibero’s taking a holiday, not a a service that is included in the price. package trip Helpline is available 7 days a week. We supply you with tough luggage (we’ll be there but This enables us to sort out any issues labels, and let you cycle on ahead – free you’ll hardly see us) ourselves and, in trickier cases, to reach of luggage, unnecessary weight or and help you on the spot. worries. 4 discovering lands, the BACKGROUND MATERIAL local people and their Our main job in winter is to prepare all ways at a “human” pace the background material you may need: – and without worrying maps, itinerary directions and a wealth about the summer rush, of local information are all essential parking, the weight of traf- tools for the independent cyclist who fic or the fastest road needs to find his or her own way. Our background material is detailed and 5 allows you to get from A to B with ease refuelling body and soul, (see also pp. 14-17). away from the madding We are also happy to supply up-to-date crowd GPS readings for anyone who prefers to navigate with a GPS.

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

KATIA BRUSTOLON our latest recruit, but already part of the furniture 2 km by Girolibero bike to get to work

WHICH ONE’S FOR ME? SELF GUIDED / IN A GROUP / TAILORMADE, IT’S YOUR CHOICE! SOME LIKE CYCLING UNDER THEIR OWN STEAM, OTHERS PREFER A CAREFREE GUIDED TOUR, WHILE SOME MAY ASK FOR A TAILORMADE HOLIDAY... WHAT DOES NOT CHANGE IS OUR WILLINGNESS TO PLEASE ALL AND SUNDRY.

SELF GUIDED

For the independent rider – whether solo or with friends and FROM OUR GUEST BOOK: using our maps and detailed family – following our own set route “We have just returned from an amazing trip through directions for each stage. No group, no Tour Leader: just rider Tuscany! The routes were well thought out, the maps and bike. Girolibero will book your hotels, transfer your luggage and directions very clear and easy to follow, and the from stop to stop, and provide you with all necessary information hotels were nice and in great locations. Thank you to material and assistance. You will be spoilt for choice: discover Girolibero, this was the very best way to experience Italy on two wheels, head to toe – or why not head for France and Tuscany. We look forward to our next trip!” discover some of its most beautiful regions? Doris, Tuscany Pisa–Florence, p. 54

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

IN A GROUP WITH A TOUR LEADER

FROM OUR GUEST BOOK: The ideal holiday for the cyclist who enjoyes the company of others and meeting like-minded people. Plus, the peace of mind Hello, We just wanted to write to let you know how impressed we of travelling with a Tour Leader: they guide the group along the were with both the tour and tour guide on our recent cycling route and are informed about all things local; they are also there WHICH ONE’S holiday. The hotels exceeded our expectations on the whole and to help if necessary and generally run the show. The following the food was excellent. Our guide was both knowledgeable and are available as group tours in this brochure: Mantua–Venice fun and she gave time to the whole group. It was quite a mix by Bike and Boat (pp. 30-31), Provence–Camargue by Bike and with six Germans, one Spanish, one Irishman and two English. Boat (pp. 34-35), Veneto (pp. 38-39), Bolzano–Verona–Venice FOR ME? Anna, Veneto, pp. 38-39 (pp. 40-41), Paris–London/London–Paris (pp. 62-63).

TAILORMADE

Whether it’s for a special interest group, an extended family clan FROM OUR GUEST BOOK: or a tribe of friends; for an association, a club or a business: we We have just returned from our bike & boat tour aboard can adapt our existing tours or create new ones from scratch. the Vita Pugna, and I just wanted to tell you that the Flexibility is the name of this particular game: © hotels experience was quite unforgettable. We’d never had a picked to suit your needs, ª shorter or longer cycling stretches boat all to ourselves, as a group, and we’ve had the time as requested, « customised background material, ¬ an expert of our lives: the crew was attentive and willing, and our Tour Leader. And these are the cards we play with: ® top tour leader a true travelling companion. We’d love to do quality hire bikes (pp. 10-11), ¯ bike trailers to transport them it all again next year: when you get a chance, could you anywhere around Europe (up to 200), ° ﬂoating hotels for any let us know what availability there is for your boats in Bike and Boat tours (see pp. 20-23), ± Plus, we can book the best Provence and Camargue, please? Best regards restaurants, guided tours and any other extra service. Klaus, Mantua–Venice, p. 30

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 9 ROBERTO CELIN getting grubby is Bikes in his job description 4 km by (vintage) roadbike to get to work ALBERTO BRICHESE the Workbench Wizard 1 km by Girolibero bike to get to work

SPECIALISTS OUR AND CRAFTSMEN

Girolibero’s unmistakeable orange bike (branded with our famous BIKES Green Bee!) is assembled in Vicenza. It’s a low-entry citybike THROUGH OUR RESEARCH AND CLIENT FEEDBACK, with an aluminium frame, WE HAVE COME UP WITH WHAT WE BELIEVE IS THE mudguards, a saddlebag rack, comfortable gel saddle, IDEAL TWO-WHEELER FOR THE GIROLIBERO CYCLIST: puncture-resistant Schwalbe A UNISEX LOW-ENTRY CITYBIKE, WITH A RIDING Marathon tyres, and with responsive breaks and gears. POSITION THAT IS UPRIGHT, COMFORTABLE AND At the point of hire we also provide RELAXED. THE ALUMINIUM FRAME PROVIDES waterproof Ortlieb saddlebags, EXCELLENT STABILITY AND SAFETY WITHOUT FEELING handlebar bag or mapholder, repair kit and combination lock – all for HEAVY. THE GEL SADDLE AND FLAT ERGONOMIC free. All bikes are serviced, tuned HANDLEBAR GRIPS (YOU’VE GOT TO TRY THEM!) and cleaned prior to each departure. GIVE ADDED COMFORT AND CONFIDENCE. WE’RE CYCLISTS TOO AND... WE JUST LOVE THEM!

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SPECIAL

¯ ELECTRIC BIKES (with the exception of Sicily, Apulia, Umbria, By popular demand, Girolibero has now Pisa–Florence, Chianti, Piedmont): invested in a considerable number of - Kalkho° , Agattu model e-bikes, much favoured by cyclists who love Motor: 36 volts, 540W/H Impulse, located the Great Outdoors, but prefer to let the centrally. The high-capacity battery is bike take the strain. secured to the seat tube. Gears: Nexus Our research has led us to the following 8-speed. Range: approx. 90 km (ﬂ at terrain, models, which are available on all our tours average speed). - BionX, Girolibero frame Motor: SL 250HT, 48 volts, 422.4W/H, located within the rear wheel. The high-capacity BionX battery is secured under the saddlebag rack. Gears: Deore 27-speed. Range: approx. 70 km (ﬂ at terrain, average speed).

BIKES ¨ TANDEM DEEP Low entry, 8 gears: ¤ UNISEX BICYCLE the perfect tandem for a cycling tour. Deore Shimano: 27 gears pedalpower.de available also with Nexus Shimano: 7 gears with pedal brake. © TANDEM ONDERWATER A versatile bike for children transportation. ¥ MEN’S BICYCLE onderwaterﬁ ets.nl Deore Shimano: 27 gears available also with Nexus Shimano: 7 gears with pedal brake. « FOLLOW ME TANDEM The ideal solution for carrying children (4-7 years old): followme-tandem.com ¦ RACING BIKE Available also bike trailer (0-4 years old): With carbon fork and 27-gear Shimano croozer.it Tiagra. ACCESSORIES § TANDEM PINO Revolutionary, easily manoeuvrable. ® HANDLEBAR BAG Perfect vision for both. klickﬁ x.de connection hase-bikes.com

REPAIR KIT

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 11 ANTONIO GERMANI Logistics simply put: sorts it all out 10 km by mountain bike to get and to work GIOVANNI BOTTAZZI Workshop bikes, trailers and tour leaders throughout Europe 5 km by bike to get to work

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

12 THE ORANGE BIKES 1,200 GIROLIBERO BICYCLES IN SUMMER In Vicenza: during the summer, 1,200 orange bikes, 10 vans, 11 bike trailers and hundreds of accessories go in and out of the workshops, supervised by our mechanics and logistics sta¶ . In Europe: in order to follow you even more closely, our mobile workshops travel beyond national borders too. - France, Orléans 250 Girolibero bikes are available for the following tours: The Loire Valley, Paris–London/London–Paris - France, Arles 150 Girolibero bikes for our tours in Provence and Camargue

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

= 10 bikes

900 hours 5 mechanics

WORK TO CHECK WE ARE IN Every week the bikes are ALL BIKES THEIR HANDS! given a complete overhaul after the season A good holiday starts right and taken to the departure here: perfect maintenance of points for our tours, in the bikes, e cient perfect condition and ready coordination of luggage to be handed over to our transfers, rapid prompt customers. We entrust all supplies to our boats in this to Roberto, Alberto, 3 years Italy, that every week we Nicolò, Andrea and prepare according to the Lorenzo, whose enthusiasm AVERAGE USE requirements of the for their work means that of Girolibero’s bikes, before being customers. your holiday is truly perfect. placed on the market and sold to our best fans!

13 Info-

packs VALENTINA MACCÀ a passion for languages, a maniac for precision 20 km by bus + folding bike to get to work

ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL AND BACKUP

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

14 BROCHURE

EVERYTHING YOU NEED

INFOµPACK On request and adding an extra FINDING THE WAY your luggage. We are therefore Self-guided tours cost, we can give also To help you follow the roadbook generally available to step in to We provide one complete GPS-System with maps. more easily, we placed arrow help at short notice, if required. info-pack per room/cabin, stickers as road signs along the containing: Guided Tours way. With them and our I DON’T SPEAK ITALIAN! 1. Travel documents A tour leader will guide the accompanying material it will No problem! Our guides and (vouchers, hotel list) group and take with him the be impossible to get lost! travel documents are also 2. Luggage labels travel documents for all the available in English and 3. Handlebar bag participants. You will receive the TELEPHONE ASSISTANCE German, as well as (depending 4. Water bottle (1 per Bike) following items only: Customer Care and on the destination) in French 5. Girolibero Greens Roadbook 2. Luggage labels Hotline Service and Dutch. Our Tour Leaders (pp. 16-17) 3. Handlebar bag This phone service is there to and sta¶ are generally 6. Girolibero Greens Maps 4. Water bottle (1 per Bike) assist you seven days a week multilingual too. (pp. 16-17) 6. Girolibero Greens Maps (from 8.00 to 20.00 hours) for 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling (pp. 16-17) any emergency or tour-related Guide (pp. 16-17) or cycling 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling issue. Our vehicles and sta¶ are guide edited by a di¶ erent Guide (pp. 16-17) or by a never far away from you since publisher. di¶ erent publisher we look after your bikes and

15 ELENA RIATTI roadbooks, brochures, etc.: Greens right, that’s signed off – let’s guides print it! 3 km by Girolibero bike to get to work AMERIO TRONCA when out of the of ce, he’s on the road doing recces 2 km to get to work (rather more when out and about in Europe) GREENS, OUR BIKE GUIDES

A SERIES OF GUIDES SPECIFICALLY CREATED WITH YOUR NEEDS IN MIND: PRACTICAL, EASY TO READ, LIGHT TO CARRY. AND A GREAT SOUVENIR TO TAKE HOME AND HELP YOU REMINISCE! A FEATURE SINCE 2011, WITH MORE TITLES JOINING THE SERIES EVERY YEAR.

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A TRIO OF BOOKLETS · Travel guide* · Detailed maps N.B. Maps and Roadbooks are Depending on the destination, The guide not only provides of your route: in colour and at a available in Italian, English and you would receive: commentary to the scenery and scale of 1:75,000 or 1:50,000 German for all our tours; extra artistic heritage of each of the (depending on the destination), languages are also available in places you will encounter on including elevation and maps of selected cases. your way, but also provides any town centres of historical * Greens travel guides important historical information relevance. Produced in are currently available for: and practical suggestions partnership with Esterbauer Venice–Mantua/Mantua– that will make your trip and any Publishers (Bikeline Guides), a Venice (by bike and boat); stopovers you plan more brand renowned for quality. Bolzano–Verona–Venice; enjoyable and safer. Veneto.

And, last but not least, ¹· Roadbook: describing the For all other tours, you will

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viale degli Scaligeri – SS46_raccordo CAMPEDELLO

THE ROADBOOK EFFORTLESS 3 NAVIGATION: (A) Column with kilometres reset to zero every 10 km. Anyone opting for a detour can simply reset the bike computer at the appropriate spot, after rejoining the standard route. (B) The standard route’s cumulative distance (C) Type of path and level of traf c: 1. Cycle path 2. Cycle path marked on a main road 3. Level of road traf c from 3 (Low) to 6 (Very Busy)

17 Roadbike

ANDREA FERRIGATO the pedigree champion in our team 23 km by roadbike to get to work

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

The routes vary in di culty, allowing you to ANDREA FERRIGATO, decide whether to race along or pedal in a “FERRI” TO HIS FRIENDS relaxed fashion. What’s more, many of the About me: stages o¶ er an easier option for those I was born with cycling in my heart: I have always pedalled with a passion, as a little wanting to rest their muscles. boy I dreamed of becoming a pro cyclist and every time I got on my bike, a blue Also on racing bike you can choose Torpedo, I dreamt I was racing. I started competitive racing at the age of 15 and I beetween independent / in a Group / raced for 680,000 km, never stopping until I was 35. I used all my energy to end my Tailormade tours. professional career happy in the knowledge that I had played all my aces: 8 Giro d’Italia, 4 Tour de France, 17 victories, including two world cups (GP Zürich and the In brief: Leeds International Classic), a stage in the Giro d’Italia, GP de Plouay, GP Bern, ¤ Overnight stays in selected Vuelta al Algarve and various races with the Italian National Team. I have accommodation continued to pedal out of my love for this sport and to work in the world of bikes when the road, the one that fl ies past under your tyres, brought me to Girolibero. I continue ¯ Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel to train, looking for the best ascents and fi nding new routes, even better when they ¥ GPS traces for the stages lead to a good restaurant and a fi ne wine cellar. This is my challenge now: managing ¦ Info material to share my emotions with all those who travel with me and Girolibero roadbike § Bike rental and GPS navigation device holiday.. ¨ Phone assistance © Medical-luggage insurance Ferri says: Just like a friend who has already been there, Andrea has advice on each stage for Roadbike tours: you: the most exciting ascent, the most suitable gear, the wine to taste as your Our self-guided tours on pp. 65-71 end-of-stage reward. If you have any doubts or queries… ask Ferri! Much more on our website [email protected] www.roadbike.girolibero.it

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

BESPOKE TOURS

Our speciality! You choose the destination and decide when to leave, we will organize the trip. Some examples: Andalusia and Sierra Nevada; Nizza–Mont Ventoux; Tunisia and the desert oasis...

We will even organize the weeks connected to the main biking events of the world: 1 GIRO D’ITALIA 8 days/7 nights guided tour, from 2,200 €

2 GF STELVIO SANTINI 5 days/4 nights guided tour, from 650 €

3 RONDE OF FLANDERS 4 days/3 nights guided tour, from 480 €

more on roadbike.girolibero.it

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 19 Fleet ANNA VALLE one semester at Amsterdam University and she’s in love with her bike 3 km by Girolibero bike (+ child seat) to get to work

OUR BOATS IN ITALY

WE’VE INTRODUCED THE BIKE AND BOAT FORMULA IN ITALY AS WELL, WITH TWO BOATS OF OUR OWN. MODERN, BRIGHT AND SPACIOUS, THE AVE MARIA WAS DESIGNED BY A WELL-KNOWN TEAM OF ITALIAN ARCHITECTS AND LAUNCHED IN 2011. THE VITA PUGNA IS A WONDERFULLY ROMANTIC DUTCH BARGE WHICH WE HAVE BEEN SAILING SINCE 2008, AFTER HER LONG VOYAGE FROM AMSTERDAM TO THE RIVER PO.

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AVE MARIA ¤ IN FIGURES ¥ THE LIVING AREA Capacity: 40 guests Measuring 11 x 7.5 m and Length: 41 m air-conditioned, it is divided in Width: 7.5 m two areas: Draught: 1.05 m › the Restaurant (up to 33 seats) › the Lounge (up to 28 seats) ¯ CABINS › 4 Superior Double cabins (two of ¦ EXTRA FEATURES these can accomodate up to 4 › 2 sundecks persons adding 2 bunk beds) › Free hot drinks machine above deck, approx. 11 mº (including Italian ground co¶ ee) › 10 Standard Double cabins (three › Free wi-ﬁ with 2 computers of these can accomodate up to 3 › Large 55” screen in the lounge persons adding 1 bunk bed) for video/internet below deck, approx. 11 mº › Dedicated bike storage (for › 3 bunk bed cabins (also available approx. 40 hanging bikes) as Single cabins) below deck, › Hair-dryers (limited number) approx. 7.5 mº available on request All cabins enjoy sizeable windows (the ones in the Superior cabins § TOURS can also be opened), comfortable Mantua–Venice/ low beds, en-suite facilities and air Venice–Mantua, conditioning. Bed/bunk size is 2.00 Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: x 0.80 m. Each double bed can be (pp. 30-33) separated into two single beds.

VITA PUGNA ¤ IN FIGURES ¥ THE LIVING AREA Capacity: 21 guests There is a spacious Length: 36 m air-conditioned lounge/restaurant Width: 5.4 m with 5 tables, accommodating up Draught: 1.60 m to 23 guests.

¯ CABINS ¦ EXTRA FEATURES › 10 Standard Twin cabins › 1 sundeck (including one accommodating › Free hot drinks machine up to 3 guests) of 7/8 mº. (including Italian ground co¶ ee) All cabins are equipped with › Free wi-ﬁ with 2 computers comfortable low twin beds and › Dedicated bike storage en-suite facilities. They also o¶ er the convenience of attractive, § TOURS traditional portholes, which can be Mantua–Venice/ opened for fresh air. Venice–Mantua, The corridor is air-conditioned. Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: Bed size is 1.90/2 m x 0.75/0.80 m (pp. 30-33)

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 21 Fleet

ANTONIO FASOLATO My last family holiday? The Loire by bike 30 km by car + folding bike to get to work

OUR BOATS IN FRANCE

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

22 BROCHURE

SOLEO ¤ IN FIGURES ¥ THE LIVING AREA Capacity: 22 guests Measuring 12.50 x 4.70 m and Length: 38.5 m air-conditioned, it is divided in Width: 5.1 m two areas: Draught: 1.6 m › the Restaurant (up to 22 seats) › the Salon area with an open bar ¯ CABINS A total of 10 windows give plenty › 12 cabins (4 Doubles, 6 Twins, of natural light. 2 Singles) measuring 7-8 mº Each cabin has three ﬁ xed ¦ EXTRA FEATURES portholes (one is in the bathroom), › Sundeck with seating air conditioning and en-suite accommodation and ﬁ xed facilities with shower area; plus awning. Half of the sundeck is ample closet space, a power socket completely sheltered from the and a full-length mirror. elements Bed sizes: 1.90 m x 0.80 m › Free WiFi in the restaurant/ (Singles) and 1.90 m x 1.40 m bar area (Doubles). › Stereo system in the restaurant/ bar area

§ TOURS Provence and Camargue Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/ Avignon–Aigues-Mortes (pp. 34-35)

L’ESTELLO ¤ IN FIGURES ¦ EXTRA FEATURES Capacity: 20 guests › Sundeck with a fixed awning, Length: 39 m tables and chairs Width: 5.2 m › Free WiFi in the restaurant/ Draught: 1.6 m bar area › “Bring and Borrow” supply of ¯ CABINS travel books › 10 cabins (one with a double bed › Pétanque/Boules sets and board and nine with twin beds) games available measuring 7-8 mº. Each cabin has two portholes § TOURS (one is in the bathroom), is Provence and Camargue air-conditioned and has en-suite Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/ facilities. Avignon–Aigues-Mortes Bed sizes: 1.90/2 m x 0.75/0.80 m (pp. 34-35)

¥ THE LIVING AREA Estello The air-conditioned living room is divided into two areas: › Restaurant, with large picture windows › Bar area with comfortable sofas and armchairs

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 23 Bike & THE CREW Boat captains, cooks and service personnel 2 weeks on board, 2 week on the ground, 6 months a year

LIFE ON BOARD DOING “BIKE & BOAT” IN STYLE SERVICE AT ITS VERY BEST ABOARD OUR “FLOATING HOTELS” IN ITALY AND FRANCE: COMFORT, HOSPITALITY, QUALITY AND... BELLA VITA! THAT, WE BELIEVE, IS WHAT MAKES GIROLIBERO’S BIKE & BOAT HOLIDAYS UNIQUE.

24 BROCHURE

OUR VERY OWN NOAH’S ARK Aboard our boats you’ll be joined by travelling companions from all over, as well as a Tour Leader who speaks the group’s two main languages – usually English and German. Shall we bet that you’ll go back home with a smattering of Italian or French? Want to know more? Read an account of a group tour on p. 9.

COMFORT: RELAX IN YOUR CABIN AND IN THE PUBLIC SPACES Our boats are among the most comfortable for bike and boat tours in Italy and France: en-suite cabins, low beds available on all boats, and clean and welcoming public spaces. A great home-from-home to come back to every day. Want to know more? Read all about our boats on pp. 20-23.

½ GIROLIBERO BIKES Our unmistakeable two-wheelers in their orange livery hold pride of place on our boats, ensuring trouble-free riding, comfort and safety. Want to know more? Read all about our bikes on pp. 10-11.

“BUON APPETITO”! In Italy we know a thing or two about pots and pans, and our on-board catering is simple but subtle, with a good selection of local wines and excellent service. The Ave Maria and Vita Pugna chefs boast plenty of experience and, in the words of our clients, their dishes alone are worth the trip. Here are two sample menus: 1- Linguine with asparagus, rare roast beef with fresh rocket leaves and stu¶ed tomatoes, Venetian mixed salad, tiramisù (see recipe below). 2- Freshly caught seafood in wine and herbs, seabass meunière with baby potatoes, fennel and orange salad, chocolate and cherry mousse.

SEE EVEN MORE OF FRANCE A Girolibero van and driver are on hand, should you want to have a day off your bike and explore Provence and Camargue at a more leisurely pace. Aboard the Estello and Soleo you will find all the info material you need to organise your day-trip. A couple of ideas: visit the ancient Roman city of Nîmes; head into the Luberon lavender fields; sip some wines at Gallician; marvel at the Salins du Midi salt marshes; hike from Gallician to Aigues Mortes.

TIRAMISÙ FOREVER METHOD: 6. Drizzle the savoiardi with 1. Separate the eggs and co¶ee until nicely soaked but By (very) popular request, combine the yolks with 60 g of not soggy here is the recipe for the best sugar 7. Line the bottom of a flat trifle loved dessert served aboard 2. Whip until the consistency is bowl with a single layer of the Ave Maria and Vita Pugna: light in colour, frothy and savoiardi and cover this with a creamy first layer of the mixture; INGREDIENTS: 3. Stir in the mascarpone cream continue with alternate layers - 6 eggs (medium) 4. In a separate bowl, whip the 8. Finish with a layer of mixture - 120 g caster sugar egg white to sti¶ peaks, adding on top, level it and dust with - 500 g mascarpone cream the remaining 60 g of sugar cocoa - 400 g sponge fingers halfway through 9. Refrigerate for a few hours (savoiardi) 5. Gently mix the egg white into “SQUISITO!” - espresso co¶ee (enough to the yolk mixture, slowly stirring soak the biscuits) upwards - dark cocoa powder (enough to dust)

25 River

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

EXCLUSIVE CHARTERING YOUR OWN RIVERCRUISE

26 BROCHURE

GIROLIBERO’S FLEET ANOTHER IDEA IN ITALY AND FRANCE OR TWO . . .

JUST ONE CABIN OR THE WHOLE BOAT? – » RIVER CRUISING DEPENDS ON HOW MANY OF YOU THERE ARE. Why not request the boat for your group and we’ll organise a one-week BUT WHY NOT ORGANISE A GROUP OF FRIENDS river cruise for you? And, for anyone AND HIRE A BOAT ALL TO YOURSELVES FOR THAT keener on sightseeing than cycling, HOLIDAY OF A LIFETIME? we can always arrange minibus excursions to cities brimming with art, architecture and sites.

The weeks not to be missed:

ITALY » IN ITALY - 19 July 2014, Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Holy Redeemer), Venice - 27 August–6 September 2014, The Venice Film Festival » IN FRANCE - 2.-22. Juli 2014, Theaterfestival in vita pugna ave maria Avignon up to 21 people up to 40 people

A long voyage brought the barge Our ﬂ agship, launched in 2011. » WINTER WEEKENDS over to Italy in 2007 after Originally a sand dredger and During November and March, our Girolibero acquired her in redesigned to our own boats in Italy are also available for Holland. Now sails between speciﬁ cation as a passenger boat: weekends and longer breaks. Mantua and Venice. stylish, roomy, with a low carbon Suggested itinerary: footprint and a fabulous kitchen. A couple more ideas: How about www.avemariaboat.com celebrating Christmas, New Year’s Eve MANTUA–VENICE p. 30 Suggested itinerary: or Carnival with us on board? VENICE–MANTUA p. 31 BOLZANO–VENICE p. 33 MANTUA–VENICE p. 30 VENICE–MANTUA p. 31 . . . OR PERHAPS BOLZANO–VENICE p. 33 EVEN . . . !

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

» TEAM BUILDING soleo l’estello Ave Maria and Vita Pugna have proved up to 22 people up to 20 people popular with groups of colleagues who want a quiet environment in which to Romantic French riverboat, The Soleo’s unidentical twin refurbished in 2009. The perfect sister, also refurbished in 2009. spend some time bonding. salon from which to enjoy the “Another apéritif, anyone?”. ﬁ re-red sunsets of Provence. Ä Suggested itinerary: Have a look Ä Suggested itinerary: at the video PROVENCE–CAMARGUE from a recent team PROVENCE–CAMARGUE p. 34-35 building exercise p. 34-35 on board the Ave Maria :

5 Tours in this brochure BIKE & 2 videos on BOAT the website!

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

ITALY FRANCE

Mantua–Venice ...... p. 30 Aigues-Mortes– | 210 Km | 8 days/7 nights Avignon ...... p. 34 Self guided and guided tour | 300 Km | 8 days/7 nights from 865 € Self guided and guided tour from 980 € Venice–Mantua ...... p. 31 | 200 Km | 8 days/7 nights Avignon– Self guided and guided tour Aigues-Mortes ...... p. 34 from 805 € | 300 Km | 8 days/7 nights Self guided and guided tour Bolzano–Mantua– from 980 € Venice ...... p. 33 | 360 Km | 11 days/10 nights Self guided and guided tour from 1240 €

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

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

Bike & Boat in Italy Mantua–Venice

Brenta Treviso Vicenza Verona Padova Venezia

Mincio Laguna di Venezia Adige Mantova Chioggia MARE Zelo Adria ADRIATICO Po S.Benedetto Revere Delta Po del Po Ferrara

DAY BY DAY fortress and oating mill) and on to the starts with a short cruise to our drop-off Venice) and particularly fashionable with 1. Mantua. The cabins are available village of Bergantino. Here we visit the point at Porto Viro and the exploration of the artists and aristocracy of the Belle from 4.30 p.m. The meeting with the charming Carousel and Street Entertain- the Po’s delta. This unique wetland park Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home tour leader and the crew is scheduled at ment Museum. Finally, we reach Zelo, a is the prime reserve in Europe for herons to the International Venice Film Festival dinner-time, at 7 p.m. sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the and home to several colonies of amin- and its galaxy of stars. Finally, our 2. Mantua, round tour (40 km, eleva- waterway which runs parallel to the Po. gos. At the mouth of the River Adige, oating hotel takes us to our marina in tion up 0 m). An entire day dedicated to 4. Zelo–Ferrara–Adria (50 km by bike which ows fast and cool from the Venice, for the culmination of our bike the discovery of this little visited cultural + 60 km by bus, elevation up 0 m). Dolomites, we then follow the Po-Bron- and boat holiday. gem, its three picturesque “lakes” After breakfast we continue our bike and dolo waterway and reach the Venetian 7. Venice. In the morning a local guide formed by the Mincio, and its surround- boat adventure cycling towards Ferrara, lagoon. Our overnight stop is the bustling will let you discover the capital of the ing countryside – once a City State ruled another key City State of ancient Italy. and colourful shing port of Chioggia, ancient “Serenissima Republic of Ven- by the Gonzaga family and now consid- You will visit this historic town and known as “Little Venice”. ice”, which held sway over much of the ered by many as Italy’s “Sleeping Beau- discover its little touched centre, still 6. Chioggia–Venice (30 km, elevation Mediterranean (and beyond) for centu- ty”. In the late afternoon a local guide surrounded by the original city walls. up 0 m). A morning visit to the sh ries. After that you have a lot of time to will lead you through the most known From Ferrara a short transfer by private market is recommended and, time soak up its timeless beauty or explore its highlights of the town. coach will take you to Adria. Once close allowing, we also climb up Chioggia’s islands. 3. Mantua–Governolo–Zelo (50 km by to the shores of the sea which bears its millennial clock tower – the oldest in the 8. Venice.After breakfast end of ser- bike, elevation up 0 m). A short cruise name, Adria was an ancient Greek port, world – for some breathtaking views. We vices. Possibility either to book extra along the lush banks of the Mincio takes famous for trading Baltic amber. Its then enjoy some island hopping in the nights or to combine with following us to Governolo, where it ows into the remarkable museum also bears witness lagoon itself by bike and boat, starting tours: Venice–Porecˇ (p. 46) or Veneto Po and forms the largest inland basin in to its Etruscan, Roman and Venetian with our barge dropping us off on Pell- (p. 38). Italy. At Governolo Lock, once a vital heritage. estrina (home to the Ca’ Roman nature staging post for local navigation, we 5. Adria–Porto Viro–Chioggia (40 km, reserve); and continuing by public ferry saddle our bikes and follow the Po elevation up 0 m). An exhilarating day of for the short crossing to the Lido island. through Ostiglia (famed for its medieval discovery alternating sailing and cycling Celebrated by Thomas Mann (Death in

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

Superb on-board catering Authentic regional cuisine, both simple and refi ned.Cities of art Venice, Mantua, | | | | 200 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Ferrara, outstanding jewels of the Italian Renaissance. Po Delta Reserve Tranquillity, natural beauty and Bike & Boat in Italy birdlife to explore by bike. Venice–Mantua

DAY BY DAY of amingos. We overnight in Adria, an 1. Venice. The cabins are available from ancient Greek port once close to the 4.30 p.m. The meeting with the tour shores of the sea which bears its name, leader and the crew is scheduled at also renowned for its Etruscan and dinner-time, at 7 p.m. It is possible to Roman heritage. combine an extra tour before your 5. Adria–Ferrara–Zelo (35 km by bike bike&boat week: Venice–Porecˇ (p. 46), + 35 km by bus, elevation up 0 m). After Veneto (p. 38). a short cruise we saddle our bikes and, 2. Venice. In the morning a local guide following the Po through farmland and will let you discover the capital of the hamlets, we reach Ferrara. Under its ancient “Serenissima Republic of Ven- overlords, the Este family, this ancient ice”, which held sway over much of the City State attracted in uential architects Mediterranean (and beyond) for centu- and artists for centuries. A private bus ries. After that you have a lot of time to takes us back to our oating hotel in soak up its timeless beauty or explore its Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal islands. Bianco, the waterway which runs paral- 3. Venice–Chioggia (30 km, elevation lel to the Po. up 0 m). Cruising out of Venice at a 6. Zelo–Mantua (50 km, elevation up 0 gentle pace, we start our bike and boat m). We sail for a short stretch and, back adventure on the Lido, the rst of two on our bikes, we reach the village of islands we explore today. Fashionable Bergantino where we visit the charming with the artists and aristocracy of the Carousel and Street Entertainment Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now Museum. Following the river through home to the International Venice Film Ostiglia (famed for its medieval fortress Festival and its galaxy of stars. A short and oating mill) and on to Governolo island-hop takes us to Pellestrina, where Lock. Once a vital staging post for local we cycle towards the Ca’ Roman nature navigation, this is where the River Mincio reserve, past the shermen’s cottages ows into the Po, creating the largest L I B O E and boats. Here, where we rejoin the inland basin in Italy. Leaving the Po R R GIROLIBERO I O MAPS

· · BIKE & BOAT CYCLING GUIDE · barge and sail to Chioggia – a bustling behind, we reach Mantua through a · GREENS BIKE & BOAT · · · · ROADBOOK · · and colourful shing harbour known as magni cent navigation in the afternoon. G S From Venice R E E N “Little Venice”. 7. Mantua round tour (40 km, elevation to Mantua ACCOMPANYING Street maps of Venice, Chioggia, Adria, Mantua From Venice Ferrara, Mantua and cycle maps This guide accompanies the Girolibero bike & boat tour and This guide accompanies the Girolibero bike & boat tour and aims to whet your appetite for the regions between Venice aims to whet your appetite for the regions between Venice to Mantua Venice and Mantua: and Mantua: O L I B Bike & Boat tour in Italy. The original. (40 km, up 0 m). An entire day dedicated to the , E 4. Chioggia–Porto Viro–Adria R MATERIAL scenically and culturallySights, fascinating history, places wining and dining tips, I R , scenically and culturally fascinating places , O

historical information useful information G · , , · historical information useful information , , · · useful information tips on good meals and snacks · · , tips on good meals and snacks · · CYCLING GUIDE L I B E · · O R G · R O R E E N S

I L ·

elevation up 0 m). A morning stroll discovery of this little visited cultural · O I B

G R BIKE & BOAT · For these tours · I E · R · G

· ·

From Venice to Mantua to Venice From · · O · · · · S · G · · R E N E From Mantua· · G · · R · through Chioggia’s sh market is recom- gem, its three picturesque “lakes” you receive E E N S to Venice mended and, time allowing, a visit up the formed by the Mincio, and its surround- Sights, history, wining and dining tips, the complete set of useful information From Mantua to Venice

R O L I I B

millennial clock tower – the oldest in the ing countryside – once a City State ruled E G ·

R Greens guides (pp.16-17): ·

O ·

· · G · R · E · world – for some breathtaking views. by the Gonzaga family. In the late after- - Cycling Guide E N S · Our cycling resumes southbound, into noon a local guide will lead you through - Maps the delta of the imposing Po. This unique the most known highlights of the town. - Roadbook wetland park is the prime reserve in 8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast. Europe for herons and home to a colony Possibility to book extra nights.

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 31 PRICE PER PERSON GENERAL INFORMATION

Boat VITA PUGNA (p. 21) AVE MARIA (p. 21) DEPARTURES VITA PUGNA Direction From Venice From Mantua From Venice From Mantua from Venice: 26.04, 10.05, 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, 13.09, 27.09, 11.10.2014. Tour code I11 I09 I12 I10 from Mantua: 19.04, 3.05, 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, Standard cabin 805 € 865 € 1055 € 1115 € 9.08, 23.08, 6.09, 20.09, 4.10, 18.10.2014. value season AVE MARIA SUPPLEMENTS from Venice: 5.04, 19.04, 3.05, 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, 9.08, 23.08, 6.09, 20.09, 4.10, 18.10.2014. Superior cabin - - + 120 € + 120 € from Mantua: 29.03, 12.04, 26.04, 10.05, 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, 13.09, 27.09, 11.10.2014. Single cabin + 300 € + 300 € + 300 € + 300 € SEASONS Best price: March 29th Middle season + 145 € + 145 € + 155 € + 155 € Value: from April 5th to April 26th and October 18th Middle: from July 5th to August 23rd and from October 4th to October 11th High season + 185 € + 185 € + 215 € + 215 € High: from May 3rd to June 28th and from August 30th to September 27th INCLUDED IN THE PRICE: 7 overnights, full board (breakfast, dinner REDUCTIONS and a self-made packed lunch), accompanying Tour Leader on board Bunk bed cabin - - - 100 € - 100 € and on bike, sheets and towels, route description and maps, bus transfer Ferrara-Adria/Ferrara-Zelo, harbour charges, coffee tea and other hot drinks 3rd/4th person in - 200 € - 200 € - 200 € - 200 € on board, mid-week cabin cleaning service and towel change, guided visit cabin in Venice and Mantua, visit of a cheese factory with tasting of typical Grana Best price - - - - 120 € Padano, visit of Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum. (March 29 th) NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE: beverages, museums, fees and extras BICYCLE RENT in general, one ferry-boat stage in Pellestrina (about 9 €), everything not included in the section “included in the price”. Girolibero bike 65 € 65 € 65 € 65 € EXTRA NIGHTS (local taxes to be paid on site) Electro-bike 145 € 145 € 145 € 145 € In Mantua 45/75 € 3* Hotel - DBL/SGL; 85/125 € 4* Hotel - DBL/SGL In Mestre 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel – DBL/SGL Helmet 15 € 15 € 15 € 15 € In Venice from 90/150 € 3/4* Hotel – DBL/SGL

USEFUL INFORMATION

NAVIGATION ON RIVERS AND afternoon. Some parts of the itinerary By Railway and Car CANALS are undertaken by boat, for example Mantua is situated on the A22 The programme has been planned to to allow easier access onto cycling GUIDED AND Highway Brennero–Modena, only 50 SELF GUIDED TOUR feature navigation along the Fissero/ paths, or simply to enjoy the cruise km south of Verona. By train it is The detailed directions and maps Bianco canal, which runs parallel to through the Venice lagoon. connected very frequently to the supplied with your free info-pack offer the Po and connects Mantua to the railway station of Verona (journey: 45 you the option of either cycling inde- Adriatic Sea. Issues with high and low min.) Venice is situated on the A4 pendently or with the rest of the water, as well as logistic obstacles BICYCLES highway and on one of the principal group, following the Tour Leader. can modify some of the daily stretches 27-gear Shimano Deore unisex bikes railway lines, which links Venice to the When booking this bike and boat tour, or overnight stays. These decisions in appropriate frame sizes.They are most important Italian cities. The please specify your chosen option (i.e. are taken by the boat’s captain. puncture-proof, fully serviced and journey Venice–Mantua (or opposite) Guided or Self-guided). BIKE ROUTE equipped with a trip computer, side- is covered by train in approx. 2,5 This cycling tour is largely along the bag, water bottle and padlock. Ad- HOW TO REACH VENICE AND hours. ats of the Po plains, and the daily ditionally, Self-guided cyclists are MANTUA: stages vary from 30 to 55 km – most- supplied with a map holder/front bag By Plane ly on tarmac cycle paths along rivers (1 per bike) and a repair kit (1 per Both Venice and Mantua are well and canals, or quiet country roads. couple). Due to space and safety served by many airports of Northern The boat is moored at night and restrictions, only a limited number of Italy: Venice (VCE), Treviso (TSF), typically sets sail after breakfast, clients’ bikes can be accepted on Verona (VRN), Bergamo (BGY), Milano meeting up with the bikes in the board upon request. Malpensa (MXP), Milano Linate (LIN)

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

Bolzano Italy’s northern outpost town immersed in the Dolomites. Lake Garda Sit back and | | | | | 360 km | 11 Days/10 Nights | the rst 4 days self guided only soak up the views, as you sail through by ferry, North to South. Superb on-board catering from Bike & Hotel + Bike & Boat Mantua, an authentic regional cuisine. Bolzano–Mantua–Venice

Bolzano/Bozen town will let you discover its historical 11. Venice. After breakfast end of centre, still surrounded by the old city services. Possibility either to book extra walls. From Ferrara a short bus transfer nights or to combine with following OVERNIGHT IN HOTEL will bring you to Adria, an ancient Greek tours: Venice–Porecˇ (p. 46) or Veneto Trento OVERNIGHT ON BOARD port, famous for trading amber coming (p. 38). Riva from the Baltic. del Garda Rovereto 8. Adria–Porto Viro–Chioggia (40 km, ROUTE PROFILE elevation up 0 m). The boat will bring you From Bolzano to Mantua you will ride on

Brenta to Porto Viro. You will be suspended well-planned cycle lanes, part of which Treviso between water and land, as you will run along the Adige banks. Towards Vicenza pedal between the Po Delta and the Lake Garda there is a bit more challeng- Desenzano Verona Padova Venezia mouth of the River Adige. You follow ing climb to face. From Mantua to Venice

Peschiera Mincio Laguna then the Po-Brondolo waterway, which you will pedal along rivers and canals on di Venezia MARE links the river to the Venetian lagoon. tarmac cycle paths or roads with low Adige ADRIATICO You will stay overnight in Chioggia, t r a f c . Mantova Chioggia Zelo known as “the little Venice”. Adria PARKING Po 9. Chioggia–Venice (30 km, elevation S.Benedetto Revere Delta up 0 m). A visit to the sh market at In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no del Po Po dawn is an absolute “must”! The boat reservation possible, to be paid on-site). Ferrara then brings you to the nature reserve of Ca’ Roman. Pedalling along the lagoon, BY PLANE DAY BY DAY 6. Mantua–Governolo–Zelo (50 km by you reach Pellestrina: from here, riding Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) 1. Arrival in Bolzano. bike, elevation up 0 m). The boat takes on the cycle path you reach the ferry with the following airports: Verona 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation you to Governolo, then you start the ride landing stage. A short ferry-boat ride (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). up 370 m). You cycle along the Adige following the River Po. Subsequently you takes you the up the Lido island, with a beside apple orchards, vineyards and will visit the “Carousel and folk show stop in Malamocco. After the nal short through the villages of Ora, Egna and Sal- museum” in Bergantino. After a few kms ride you reach again the barge. orno. You then reach Trento: take your the barge awaits you in Zelo. 10. Venice. In the morning a local guide time to have a look behind the splendid 7. Zelo–Ferrara–Adria (50 km by bike will let you discover the magni cent walls of its painted buildings. Possibility + 60 km by bus, elevation up 0 m). After centre of Venice. After that you have a to shorten the stage by taking the train in breakfast you will start cycling towards lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty several train stations along the way. Ferrara. A guided visit of this wonderful or explore its islands. 3. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 m). You reach Rovereto and Mori. From here PRICE PER PERSON (Surcharges for the rst 4 days from Bolzano to Mantua) Tour code I26 you continue up on a gently rising slope in direction of Lake Garda. On the ferry boat you travel as far as Peschiera/ EXTRA NIGHTS INCLUDED not included in the section IN THE PRICE Desenzano along the southern shore of In Bolzano “included in the price”. SELF GUIDED TOUR 3 nights hotel accommoda- the lake. 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel DEPARTURES 3/4* Hotels tion (in Bolzano, Trento, 4. Peschiera/Desenzano–Mantua DBL/SGL FROM BOLZANO 375 € DBL Peschiera/Desenzano), (35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). In Mestre Every Wednesday from April + 90 € SGL welcome brie ng in English, Today you will cycle following one of the 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel 23rd to October 1st 2014. + 15 € high season sup- luggage transportation, most famous Italian cycle paths, which DBL/SGL plement (from June 28th to detailled route description, runs parallel to the River Mincio. The In Venice Sept. 5th, 2014) 3-days Hotline service. stage ends in Mantua, with overnight From 90/150 € 3/4* Hotel aboard our barges Ave Maria/ Vita DBL/SGL NOT INCLUDED Pugna. REDUCTIONS IN THE PRICE BICYCLE RENT 5. Mantua, round tour (40 km, elevation 3rd person in room: Beverages, local hotel 40 € Girolibero bike 30 € taxes (to be paid on site), up 0 m). An entire day dedicated to the 80 € Electro-bike discovery of this wonderful city and its museums and extras in sorroundings dominated by the family of general, everything, which is Gonzaga.

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 33 France

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

Bike & Boat in France Provence-Camargue

spectacular work. In the afternoon you Pont du Gard, a truly spectacular work of Roquemaure Chateauneuf du-Pape will arrive in Avignon, the city of the architecture. In the evening you will Popes. You will be moored in Villeneuve- moor in Vallabrègues, a pretty Provençal Pont du Gard Avignone lès-Avignon on the opposite bank of the village on the banks of the Rhône. F Rhône. 4. Vallabreguès–Arles (65 km, eleva- Vallabregues 7. Avignon, round tour (45 km, elevation up 300 m). This stage brings you to Tarascon tion up 100 m). Navigation up to Avi- Saint Remy de Provence, birthplace of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence gnon, and then cycle in the direction of Nostradamus. This village is also famous hône Les-Baux-de-Provence t R Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low- for having hosted Van Gogh in the days ti Lunel e Gallician P Arles trafc roads surrounded by vineyards. In of his mental illness. Then, you move Châteauneuf- du-Pape you can enjoy a onto the Alpilles, with Les-Baux-de- Montpellier Grand Aigues-Mortes tasting of the very famous Provençal Provence, a village lodged in the rock Étang de Vaccarès Rhône wine. After that you will cross the Rhône itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs, Le Grau-du-Roi Étang de Berre at the height of Roquemaure and return lavender and olive trees accompanies St. Maries-de-la-Mer to Villeneuve following the course of the your journey. river. 5. Arles–Gallician (20 km, elevation up 8. Avignon. After breakfast, end of 0 m). Today the whole morning is dedi- From Aigues-Mortes 0 m). You will sail for a few hours up to services. Possibility to book extra nights. cated to visit Arles, the ancient capital of to Avignon Saint Gilles and then cycle to today’s Gaul with beautiful Roman ruins. You will destination: Arles, known for the richness From Avignon also have the opportunity to be welcome DAY BY DAY of its antique and Roman patrimony. The by a professional guide, who will accom- 1. Aigues-Mortes. Individual arrival and city fascinates you with its hidden to Aigues-Mortes pany you around the jewels of the town. boarding after 6 p.m. in Aigues-Mortes, treasures. Getting lost among its small DAY BY DAY After lunch you reach the lock of Saint medieval town, ancient military and alleys will be like entering a picture by 1. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. Individual Gilles and from there you will sail to commercial rampart on the Mediterra- Van Gogh. In the afternoon you will also arrival at 6 p.m. and boarding in Ville- Gallician, where you will spend the night. nean. have the opportunity to be welcome by a neuve-lès-Avignon. 6. Gallician–Aigues-Mortes (65 km, 2. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (45 km, professional guide, who will accompany 2. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon (45 km, elevation up 0 m). You will cycle among elevation up 0 m). Going through small you around the jewels of the town. elevation up 100 m). Navigate up to cane elds, rice elds and salt lakes, country lanes between canals and 5. Arles–Vallabreguès (65 km, eleva- Avignon, the city of popes, and then accompanied by horses, amingos and lagoons you will reach the charming tion up 300 m). Breathtaking stage, cycle in the direction of Châteauneuf-du- bulls, and arrive at Saintes-Maries-de- shermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. which brings you to the Alpilles, with the Pape, following roads with low levels of la-Mer and then Aigues-Mortes. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the perched village of Les-Baux-de- trafc surrounded by vineyards. In 7. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (45 km, wonderful beach of L’Espiguette. Provence and then to Saint Rémy de Châteauneuf- du-Pape you can enjoy a elevation up 0 m). Going through small 3. Aigues-Mortes–Gallician (65 km, Provence. A landscape of limestone tasting of the very famous Provençal country lanes between canals and elevation up 0 m). You will cycle among cliffs, lavender and olive trees will wine. After that you will cross the Rhône. lagoons you will reach the charming cane and rice elds and salt lakes, accompany the trip. In the evening you You will cross the Rhône through Roque- shermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. accompanied by horses, amingos and will moor in Vallabrègues, pretty Proven- maure and return to Villeneuve by Possibility of a refreshing bath on the bulls, and arrive to Saintes-Maries-de- çal village on the banks of the Rhône. following the course of the river. wonderful beach of L’Espiguette. la-Mer with its cathedral, loved by the 6. Vallabrègues–Avignon (60 km, 3. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon– 8. Aigues-Mortes. After breakfast, gipsies. You will spend the night moored elevation up 300 m). The stage today will Vallabrègues (60 km, elevation up 300 end of services. Possibility to book extra in the village of Gallician. bring you to the best preserved Roman m). Today’s stage brings you to the best nights. 4. Gallician–Arles (20 km, elevation up aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe:

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Landscapes of Van Gogh The villages, vineyards and meadows that inspired the painter. Pont du Gard, the highest Roman aqueduct. Still intact and a UNESCO Heritage Site. Wilderness of the Camargue, with its horses, bulls and fascinating gipsy culture.

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

NAVIGATION ON RIVERS AND SEASONS INCLUDED CANALS Standard season: from April 19th IN THE PRICE Issues with high and low water, EMERGENCY VAN & TRANSFERS to April 26th 2014 and from July 7 nights accommodation, full board as well as logistic obstacles can A minivan is available on the area for 5th to August 23rd 2014. (breakfast, dinner and a self-made modify some of the daily stretches or emergencies. The same van offers High season: from May 3rd to June packed lunch), sheets and towels, embarkation points. These decisions alternative excursions for those 28th 2014 and from August 30th to detailed route description, maps are taken by the boat’s captain. customers who don’t want to cycle on October 18th 2014. and info-pack, tour leader on bike, It is envisaged that the boat will sail some days or can organize transfers emergency van in the area, guided some of the way during breakfast or to shorten the longest stages. These visit of Arles, entrance to Pont du the evening meal to make getting out extra services are not included and SELF GUIDED AND Gard, harbour charges, tea and of the towns easier or to shorten the must be paid on site. Programs and GUIDED TOUR coffee on board, wine tasting in stages. prices are available on board. boat Soleo/L’Estello (p. 23) Châteauneuf-du-Pape. BIKE ROUTE 980 € DBL NOT INCLUDED Route on bike paths and low trafc + 300 € SGL IN THE PRICE roads in rural and city areas. Short + 100 € high season supplement Beverages on board, museums and SELF GUIDED AND stretches are on unpaved roads and everything which is not mentioned GUIDED TOUR few on not avoidable busy roads. above. This tour offers the chance to choose BICYCLE RENT if pedalling alone (taking advantage DEPARTURES 65 € Girolibero bike From Avignon BICYCLE of a very detailed route description) 145 € Electro-bike 19.04, 3.05, 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, Different frame sizes of unisex bikes or with the whole group, following the 15 € Helmet 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, 9.08, 23.08, with 27-gears Shimano Deore will tour leader. When booking the tour you EXTRA NIGHTS 6.09, 20.09, 4.10, 18.10.2014. be available on board. They are fully need to specify which option is chosen In Avignon From Aigues-Mortes equipped with 1 side-bag, 1 water (i.e. if Guided or Self guided). 60/90 € 2/3* Hotels – DBL/SGL 26.04, 10.05, 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, bottle, 1 padlock, 1 map holder/front HOW TO REACH AVIGNON AND In Aigues-Mortes 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, bag (only for Self-Guided) per bike and AIGUES-MORTES BY PLANE 65/100 € 2/3* Hotels – DBL/SGL 13.09, 27.09, 11.10.2014. 1 repair kit per couple (only for Self- Both Avignon and Aigues-Mortes Guided). Due to a limited space on are well served by some airports: board only a few own bikes will be Montpellier Mediterranée (MPL), accepted upon request. Marseille Provence (MRS), Nîmes Garons (FNI), Lyon Saint Exupéry (LYS), Avignon Caumont (AVN).

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21 Tours in this brochure BIKE & more on the HOTEL website!

The classic bike trip: landscapes and open air, without the hassle of logistical issues. All you have to do is ride from one destination to another and enjoy the view. ITALY Terme Euganee ...... p. 52 | 160 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights Veneto ...... p. 38 Self guided tour from 435 € | 270 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 498 € Piedmont ...... p. 53 Guided tour from 955 € | 240 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 655 € Bolzano–Verona– Venice ...... p. 40 Tuscany: | 280 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Pisa–Florenz ...... p. 54 Self guided tour from 628 € | 225 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Guided tour from 995 € Self guided tour from 698 €

Innsbruck–Verona/ Tuscany: Chianti ...... p. 55 Venice ...... p. 42 | 195 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights | 255 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights Self guided tour from 698 € Self guided tour from 635 € | 390 Km | 10 Days/9 Nights Umbria ...... p. 56 Self guided tour from 930 € | 265 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 685 € Adige Cycle Route . . . p. 43 | 275 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Apulia ...... p. 57 Self guided tour from 682 € | 320 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 645 € Bolzano–Bassano– Venice ...... p. 44 Sicily ...... p. 58 | 310 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights | 230 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 628 € Self guided tour from 645 € | 195 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights Bolzano–Cortina– Self guided tour from 605 € Venice ...... p. 45 | 275 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 655 € FRANCE

Venice–Porecˇ ...... p. 46 Provence– | 320 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Camargue ...... p. 59 Self guided tour from 628 € | 305 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 695 € Bolzano–Ferrara ...... p. 48 | 315 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Loire valley ...... p. 60 Self guided tour from 682 € | 295 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 580 € Lake Garda–Adriatic . p. 49 | 300 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Paris–London/ Self guided tour from 628 € London–Paris ...... p. 62 | 340/320 Km | South Tyrol Valleys . . . p. 50 8 Days/7 Nights | 160 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights Self guided tour from 679 € Self guided tour from 520 € Guided tour from 985 €

Lake Garda ...... p. 51 | 165 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights Self guided tour from 510 €

37 Italy

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

Veneto Venice Lands

8. Vicenza. Departure after breakfast. Bassano del Grappa Possibility either to book extra nights or Montebelluna Marostica Asolo to combine with the following tours: Treviso Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Brenta Piave Sile Bike&Boat (pp. 31-33). Vicenza Lago di Bacchiglione Garda ROUTE PROFILE Verona Mestre Venezia - Total Length: 270/295 km Peschiera Stra Venice Padova Laguna - Total vertical up: 530 m di - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved Venezia MARE ADRIATICO - Train connection among the overnight Adige stays: every day Chioggia - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by Po taking the train: day 3.

The itinerary is completely in the low- DAY BY DAY Ferrarastreets; accommodation is in Mestre. up 130 m). The Bacchiglione River lands except for the 1 km slope in Asolo. 1. Vicenza. Individual arrival. A nice and A supplement applies for lodging in points the way out of the the city and You ride on secondary streets with low cosy historical city centre characterized Venice. you reach Costozza, a little town at the traf c or paved bike paths. by the buildings of the famous architect 5. Mestre/Venice–Chioggia foot of the Berici hills. The bike path Andrea Palladio (16th century). (1st cycling day for those starting in passes in front of Villa Rotonda, the BY PLANE 2. Vicenza–Bassano del Grappa Mestre) (35 km, elevation up 0 m). most famous of the Palladian villas. Just Vicenza/Mestre are well connected (40 km, elevation up 100 m). From Leaving Mestre this mor ning you head before entering Vicenza you see the Villa (60–90 min.) with the following airports: Vicenza you cycle towards Marostica, into Venice pedalling on the 4 km bridge Valmarana ai Nani with its marvellous Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Treviso famous for its castle and the chessboard “della Libertà”, then to Tronchetto frescoes by Tiepolo. (TPS), Bergamo (BGY-150 min). in the main square. The last stop is harbour. From here you take a ferry Bassano del Grappa with its covered along the canal Giudecca to Lido. This is wooden bridge and the “grappa”. the most exciting day, pedalling on two L I B O E 3. Bassano del Grappa–Treviso narrow islands that divide the sea from R R GIROLIBERO I O

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· (65/40 km, elevation up 300 m). You the lagoon: Malamocco and the island of · GREENS · ·

· · · · enter Asolo, which presents us the only Pellestrina. G S R E E N real uphill section of our ride. The down- 6. Chioggia–Padova (60 km, elevation ACCOMPANYING hill run takes you to the land of Prosecco up 0 m). You will be pedalling along the MATERIAL vineyards and on to Maser. Possibility to two rivers that carried trade in and out of For these tours shorten the stage of 25 km by taking the Venice in this area centuries ago: you receive train from Montebelluna to Treviso. Bacchiglione and Brenta. You continue the complete set of 4. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km, on to Strà, famous for the majestic Villa Greens guides (pp.16-17): elevation up 0 m). Leaving Treviso Pisani. On arrival in Padova, you will nd - Cycling Guide behind you follow the course of the River the great basilica dedicated to St. An- - Maps Sile up to Casale. thony, the historic Caffè Pedrocchi and - Roadbook At the end of the trip Venice awaits you Prato della Valle. for an evening among canals and narrow 7. Padova–Vicenza (50 km, elevation

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Prosecco Paradise By bike through the vineyards of the celebrated sparkling wine. Palladio’s architecture The Renaissance master’s finest designs, in and around Vicenza. Padova, city of art and learning. The oldest Faculty of Medicine in the world.

PRICE PER PERSON Self guided tour code I03 - Guided tour code I03G SHORT BREAK SEASONS REDUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED | | 135 km | 5 Days | IN THE PRICE Value season: from 3rd/4th person in room: Tour code I16 March 29th to April 30th BICYCLE RENT 100 € Cat. B Local taxes 65 € Girolibero bike 2014 and from September 130 € Cat. A (approx 10-15 €). DAY BY DAY 145 € Electro-bike 27th to October 25th Until the age of 2: 90% Ferry-boat transfers on 1. Mestre. Arrival. 15 € Helmet 2014. From 3 to 5 years: 50% day 5 (altogether about 2. Mestre/Venice–Chioggia Middle season: from May HALF BOARD From 6 to 8 years: 30% 25 € per person + bike). (35 km). You will cycle to Tron- 1st to June 25th 2014 140 € Cat. B INCLUDED DEPARTURES chetto harbour. From here you take and from August 30th to 170 € Cat. A IN THE PRICE Self guided tour: a ferry to Lido. You pedal on the September 26th 2014. 6 dinners included 7 nights hotel accom- Every Saturday and Sunday islands Malamocco and Pellestrina. High season: from June (3-course meals), bever- modation, breakfast buffet, from Vicenza and every Overnight in Chioggia. 26th to August 29th 2014. ages not included. welcome brieng in English, Tuesday and Wednesday 3. Chioggia–Padova (60 km). EXTRA NIGHTS luggage transportation, from Mestre, from March You will reach the majestic Villa In Vicenza/Treviso Girolibero Greens Cycling 29th to October 25th 2014. Pisani in Strà. On arrival in Padova, SELF GUIDED TOUR From 40/65 € Cat. B Guide, route descriptions Special departure dates for don’t miss the historical centre. Cat. B (2/3* Hotels) DBL/SGL & maps, 7-days Hotline at least 6 persons! 4. Padova–Mestre (40 km). 498 € DBL From 55/85 € Cat. A service, 24-hours-ticket Attention! Starting point You will cycle along the Brenta + 145 € SGL DBL/SGL for Venice public transport Treviso: dates to be Canal, overlooked by the villas of + 40 € Middle season In Mestre valid only Cat. A (bike not announced. the ancient Venetian nobility until + 80 € High season 55/65 € Cat. B - DBL/SGL included, approx. 4 €), en- you reach Mestre. 65/85 € Cat. A - DBL/SGL trance into Villa Valmarana Guided tour: April 19th, 5. Mestre. Departure. Cat. A (3/4* Hotels) In Venice ai Nani, ice-cream in the May 31st, June 7th, June 655 € DBL From 90 € Cat. A / B - DBL best ice cream parlour in 28th, July 12th, September PRICE PER PERSON + 198 € SGL From 150 € Cat. A / B - Vicenza. 13th 2014. 415 € DBL; 110 € SGL supplement + 35 € Middle season SGL Guided tour includes also: 45 € Girolibero bike + 55 € High season Night in Venice instead of Cat. A Hotel accommoda- 20 € high season suppl. (from Mestre (luggage delivered tion, 7 dinners (3-course June 26th to August 29th, 2014) Cat. A+ (luxury Hotels and to the hotel) meal, 1 dinner in Venice), INCLUDED IN THE PRICE villas) From 90 € Cat. A / B - DBL guide on bike, support van 4 nights in 3/4* Hotel, 4 breakfast 1290 € DBL From 150 € Cat. A / B - in the area, guided tour buffets, welcome brieng, luggage + 280 € SGL SGL of Venice, visits and wine transportation, route description tasting. and maps, Hotline service.

GUIDED TOUR DEPARTURES Cat. A (3/4* Hotels) Every Tuesday and Wednesday 955 € DBL from May 6th to September 24th + 198 € SGL 2014.

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

Bolzano–Verona–Venice Across Lake Garda and through Verona

come across the beautiful Palladian Villa ROUTE PROFILE Bolzano/Bozen Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, - Total Length: 280/345 km Lago the route will continue to the fascinating - Total vertical up: 1,270/1,450 m di Caldaro city of Padova with its famous Giotto’s - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved Salorno Chapel and one of the biggest squares - Train connection among the overnight Adige of Europe “Prato della Valle”. stays: every day Trento 7. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km, - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by Riva elevation up 0 m). The tour continues taking the train: day 2 and 5. del Garda easily through the at Veneto. You will Rovereto Bassano cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked As a whole it is an easy to manage by the countryside villas of the ancient itinerary, riding on secondary streets Treviso Brenta Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcon- with low traf c or paved bike paths. Lago di Garda Vicenza tenta, Villa Widmann) until you reach There are light hilly bits with short uphill Mestre Desenzano Verona Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can sections. Soave choose to stay directly in Venice with a Peschiera San Bonifacio Padova Venezia PARKING Abano MARE price supplement. ADRIATICO 8. Mestre/Venice. Departure after In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no Adige Chioggia breakfast. Transfer back to Bolzano on reservation possible, to be paid on site). request when booking the tour. Possibility either to book extra nights or BY PLANE DAY BY DAY 4. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona to combine with the following tours: Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) 1. Bolzano. Arrival. Bolzano is a famous (35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (p. 31), with the following airports: Verona commercial and tourist centre and also a Today you head to Verona. With the Venice–Porecˇ (p. 46). (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). historical and cultural connection be- Adige crossing it, this is one of the most tween the Italian and the German world. important and beautiful cities in the 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation Veneto region. Worth visiting are: the up 370 m). Today you will ride mostly Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno along the Adige River, through orchards, and Juliet’s House. L I B O E vineyards passing the villages of Ora, 5. Verona–Vicenza (75/40 km, eleva- R R GIROLIBERO I O

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· Egna and Salorno. The dam pathways tion up 470 m). At rst, the route starts · GREENS · ·

· · · · lead then to Trento. Possibility to shorten out at and then heads through the Monti G S R E E N the stage by taking the train in several Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza, ACCOMPANYING train stations along the way. with a wonderful view of the city. The old MATERIAL 3. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 city centre is characterized by the beauti- For these tours km + ferry, elevation up 200 m). Always ful private palaces and public buildings you receive pedalling along the Adige you reach by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th the complete set of Rovereto and Mori. From here westwards century architect known all over the Greens guides (pp.16-17): towards Lake Garda. After a short world. Possibility to shorten the stage by - Cycling Guide ascent, a refreshing descent will follow taking the train in several train stations - Maps and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The along the way. - Roadbook ferry cruise takes you to the southern 6. Vicenza–Padova (50 km, elevation part of the lake. up 80 m). Cycling out of Vicenza you will

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

Dolomites Towns, villages and valleys in the shadow of the iconic pink peaks. Lake Garda Among the most elegant holiday destinations in northern Italy. Venice Forget your bike and directions: Venice is made for walking and losing yourself!

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

SEASONS HALF BOARD REDUCTIONS DEPARTURES | | 150 km | 5 Days | Standard season: from 170 € (only for Cat. A) 3rd/4th person in room: Self guided tour: Tour code I18 March 29th to June 27th 6 dinners included 100 € Cat. B every Saturday and Sunday 2014 and from September (3-course meals), bever- 130 € Cat. A from March 29th to October DAY BY DAY 6th to October 18th 2014. ages not included. Until the age of 2: 90% 18th 2014. 1. Bolzano. Arrival. High season: from June EXTRA NIGHTS From 3 to 5 years: 50% Additionally every Tuesday 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km). 28th to September 5th In Bolzano From 6 to 8 years: 30% and Wednesday from May Today you will ride through vine- 2014. 65 € Cat. A / B - DBL INCLUDED 13th to September 10th yards and tiny beautiful villages. 85 € Cat. A / B - SGL IN THE PRICE 2014. The dam pathways lead then to In Mestre 7 nights hotel accom- Special departure dates for Trento. SELF GUIDED TOUR 55/65 € Cat. B - DBL/SGL modation, breakfast at least 6 persons! 3. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano Cat. B (2/3* Hotels) 65/85 € Cat. A - DBL/SGL buffet, welcome brieng (50 km + ferry). Pedalling along 628 € DBL In Venice in English, luggage Guided tour: April 19th, the Adige you reach Lake Garda. + 145 € SGL From 90 € transportation, Girolibero May 17th, June 28th, A ferry cruise takes you to the + 30 € High season Cat. A / B - DBL Greens Cycling Guide, August 30th, October 4th southern part of the lake. From 150 € route descriptions & maps, 2014. 4. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona Cat. A (3/4* Hotels) Cat. A / B - SGL 4-hour ferry cruise through (35/60 km). Today you head to 728 € DBL Night in Venice instead Lake Garda, 7-days Hotline Verona, one of the most beautiful + 198 € SGL of Mestre (luggage deliv- service, entrance into cities in Veneto region. + 40 € High season ered to the hotel) Villa Valmarana ai Nani, 5. Verona. Departure. From 90 € ice-cream in the best ice Cat. A / B - DBL cream parlour in Vicenza. PRICE PER PERSON GUIDED TOUR From 150 € Guided tour includes 475 € DBL; 110 € SGL supplement Cat. A (3/4* Hotels) Cat. A / B - SGL also: 45 € Girolibero bike 995 € DBL TRANSFERS Cat. A Hotel accommoda- 25 € high season supplement + 198 € SGL To be con rmed when tion, 7 dinners (3-course (from June 28th to Sept. 5th, 2014) booking the tour meals, 1 in Venice), guide INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Mestre/Venice–Bolzano on bike, support van in the 4 nights in 3/4* Hotel, BICYCLE RENT 60 € per person (bike area, wine tasting, guided 4 breakfast buffet, welcome 65 € Girolibero bike included). visits of Verona and Venice. brieng, luggage transportation, 145 € Electro-bike Available on Saturday and route description and maps, 4-hour 15 € Helmet NOT INCLUDED Sunday (other days only on IN THE PRICE ferry cruise through Lake Garda, request). Also possible on Local taxes Hotline service Tuesday and Wednesday (approx 10-15 €). DEPARTURES from May 20th to Septem- Train transfers. every Saturday, Sunday and ber 17th 2014. Tuesday from May 10th to September 14th 2014.

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Tyrol A backdrop of towering mountains, verdant meadows and wooden chalets. | | | 255 km | 7 Days/6 Nights or 10 Days/9 Nights Lake Garda Sail across the lake beloved by poets and artists through the ages. Adriatic Sea Venice and her lagoon Innsbruck–Verona/Venice welcome you on the home stretch of the tour. From the mountains to the sea

Innsbruck Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Widmann) until you reach Mestre, Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House. Venice’s mainland. You can choose to A Brennero/Brenner 7. Verona. Departure. stay directly in Venice with a price Isarco/EisackVipiteno/Sterzing supplement. VARIATION 10. Mestre/Venice. Departure. CH 7. Verona–Vicenza (75/40 km, eleva- I Bressanone/Brixen tion up 470 m). At rst, the route starts ROUTE PROFILE Bolzano/Bozen out at and then heads through the - Total Length: 255/390 km Lago Monti Berici, a hilly region just south of - Total vertical up: 1,860/2,410 m di Caldaro Vicenza. The old city centre is character- - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved ized by the beautiful private palaces and - Train connection among the overnight Salorno Adige public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the stays: every day Trento famous 16th century architect known all - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by

Riva del Garda over the world. The ones who consider taking the train: day 3, 4 and 7. Rovereto this stage too long can take a train from Bassano several railway stations. The itinerary is mainly on one of the Treviso Brenta 8. Vicenza–Padova (50 km, elevation most beautiful cycle path in Italy. Con- Lago di Garda Adige Vicenza up 80 m). Cycling out of Vicenza you will tinuing from Lake Garda to Venice the Desenzano Verona Mestre Soave Venezia come across the beautiful Palladian Villa itinerary is developed riding on second- Peschiera Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, ary streets with low trafc. San Bonifacio Padova MARE Abano ADRIATICO the route will continue to the fascinating Mincio city of Padova with its famous Giotto’s BY PLANE Chapel and one of the biggest squares of Innsbruck (INN) or good connections DAY BY DAY and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. Europe “Prato della Valle”. with the following airports (100–120 1. Innsbruck. Arrival. The ferry cruise takes you to the south- 9. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km, min.): Munich (MUC), Salzburg (SZG). 2. Innsbruck–Bressanone (55 km ern part of the lake. elevation up 0 m). You will cycle along cycle + 40 km transfer, elevation up 570 6. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the m). A private transfer will take you to (35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). countryside villas of the ancient Venetian Brennero, where you’ll start cycling into Today you head to Verona. nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcontenta, Villa the green Isarco valley. Your cycling day continues with no difculties through nice villages and green meadows till PRICE PER PERSON Innsbruck-Verona tour code I32 - Innsbruck-Venice tour code I27 Fortezza, where you will see the ancient fort. Lake Varna awaits you for a relaxing break before you reach Bressanone. SEASONS Variation In Mestre welcome brieng 3. Bressanone–Bolzano (45 km, Standard season: from 10 days/9 nights 65/85 € DBL/ SGL in English, luggage trans- elevation up 570 m). Continue along the May 8th to June 25th 2014 3/4* hotels In Venice portation, transfer from same cycle path, with few kms today: and from September 6th to 930 € DBL From 90 € DBL Innsbruck to Brennero, route you’ll have the opportunity to visit the September 26th 2014. + 245 € SGL From 150 € SGL descriptions & maps, 4-hour huge Sabiona medieval monastery, built High season: from June + 60 € High season Night in Venice instead of ferry cruise through Lake on a rocky-hill and dominating the 26th to September 5th 2014. Mestre (luggage delivered Garda, 7/10-days Hotline Isarco-valley. Overnight in Bolzano. to the hotel) service. 4. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation BICYCLE RENT From 90 € DBL NOT INCLUDED up 370 m). You will ride along the Adige SELF GUIDED TOUR 65 € Girolibero bike (7 days) From 150 € SGL IN THE PRICE 3/4* hotels River, through orchards, vineyards 90 € Girolibero bike REDUCTIONS Local taxes (approx 10-15 €). passing the villages of Ora, Egna and 635 € DBL (10 days) 3rd person in room: Train transfers. Salorno. The dam pathways lead then to + 170 € SGL 15 € Helmet 110 € (7 days) DEPARTURES Trento. + 40 € High season EXTRA NIGHTS 136 € (10 days) Every Thursday and Friday 5. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 In Innsbruck INCLUDED from May 8th to September km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 m). 65/85 € DBL/ SGL IN THE PRICE 26th 2014. Always pedalling along the Adige you In Verona 6/9 nights hotel accom- Special departure dates for reach Rovereto and Mori. After a short 65/85 € DBL/SGL modation, breakfast buffet, at least 6 persons! ascent, a refreshing descent will follow

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Cycle paths 90 % of the itinerary is along the longest cycle route in Italy. South Tyrol Italy’s | | | 275 km | 8 Days/7 Nights northernmost region, imbued with both Italian and Tyrolean spirit. Bolzano, Trento, Mantua, Verona Adige Cycle Route Stylish historic centres also great for shopping. From Resiapass to Verona/Mantua

Adige, passing through orchards and most important and beautiful cities of lanes system. You can ride almost Passo Resia/ nice landmarks like the imposing Castle Italy. exclusively on well-planned, trafc-free A Reschen Pass Dornsberg. You arrive in the beautiful 8. Verona. Departure after breakfast. cycle lanes, part of which run along the Merano Etsch city of Merano. Adige banks. Towards Lake Garda there VARIATION Silandro/ Bolzano/Bozen 4. Merano–Bolzano (35 Km, elevation is a bit more challenging climb to face. up 60 m). Still cycling along the cycle 7. Peschiera/Desenzano-Mantua Schlanders Lago di PARKING I Caldaro lane you reach little towns like Nalles (45/70 km, elevation up 20/200 m). and Andriano and your destination, Today you will follow one of the most In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no Adige Riva Trento Bolzano. Take your time for a walk famous Italian cycle paths, passing reservation possible, to be paid on-site). del Garda Rovereto around the capital of the South Tyrol. through the villages of Borghetto and 5. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 Km, elevation Valeggio sul Mincio. The trip ends in BY PLANE Lago di Garda VicenzaBrenta up 370 m). Cycling along the lane you Mantua, wonderful art city. Bolzano is very well connected to the Desenzano Verona follow the Adige beside apple orchards, 8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast. following airports (90–120 min): Verona Peschiera Padova Veneziavineyards and through the villages of Possibility either to book extra nights or (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). Mincio MAR del Garda Ora,ADRIATICO Egna and Salorno. Along the river to combine with following tours: Mantova Po Chioggiabanks you ride towards Trento. Mantua–Venice/Venice–Mantua Possibility to shorten the stage by taking (pp. 30-31), Veneto (p. 38). the train in several train stations along SHORT BREAK

the way. ROUTE PROFILE DAY BY DAY 6. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano - Total Length: 275/315 km | | 115 km | 5 Days | 1. Bolzano. Arrival. (50 km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 - Total vertical up: 830/1,040 m Tour code I30 2. Resiapass–Silandro (50 km, eleva- m). You’ll reach the Lake Garda. Before - Terrain: 97% asphalt, 3% unpaved tion up 120 m). We will drive you to Resia leaving for Riva, don’t miss the sight of - Train connection among the overnight DAY BY DAY up to 1500 metres of height, where your the lake from above! The ferry cruise stays: every day 1. Bolzano. Arrival. cycling tour starts. The majestic cycle takes you to the southern part of - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by 2. Resiapass–Silandro lane will take you past the lake Resia the lake. The boat excursion alone taking the train: every day except day 7 Transfer up to Resiapass, then and the closter of Montemaria as far as makes the whole trip worthwhile. cycle to Silandro. Silandro. 7. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona Mainly along at roads with only a few 3. Silandro–Merano Along the 3. Silandro–Merano (40 km, elevation (35/60 km, elevation up 150/330 m). rolling parts. The region of South Tyrol is river Adige you will reach Merano. up 60 m). The tour continues along the Today you head to Verona, one of the provided with an excellently-built cycle- 4. Merano–Bolzano Ride past little towns like Nalles and Andri- ano until you reach Bolzano. 5. Bolzano. Departure. PRICE PER PERSON Resiapass–Verona tour code I15 - Resiapass–Mantua tour code I02

PRICE PER PERSON SEASONS 60 € per person - bike Resiapass, 4-hour ferry 415 € DBL Standard season: from included (min. 4 persons) cruise through Lake Garda, 110 € SGL supplement May 10th to June 27th 2014 BICYCLE RENT Available on Saturday (other route descriptions & maps, 45/95 € Girolibero bike/Electro-bike and from September 6th to 65 € Girolibero bike days only on request). 7-days Hotline service. 145 € Electro-bike 30 € high season suppl. (from June September 13th 2014. REDUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED 15 € Helmet 28th to September 5th 2014) High season: from June 3rd/4th person in room: IN THE PRICE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 28th to September 5th 2014. EXTRA NIGHTS 130 € Local taxes (approx 10-15 €) In Bolzano 4 nights in 3/4* Hotel, Until the age of 2: 90% DEPARTURES 65/85 € DBL/SGL 4 breakfast buffets, welcome From 3 to 5 years: 50% Every Saturday from May SELF GUIDED TOUR In Verona From 6 to 8 years: 30% brieng in English, luggage 10th to September 13th transportation, route description and 3/4* Hotels 65/85 € DBL/SGL INCLUDED 2014. maps, Hotline service. 682 € DBL In Mantua IN THE PRICE Additionally every Sunday 45/75 € DBL/SGL + 198 € SGL 7 nights hotel accom- from June 29th to August DEPARTURES + 40 € High season TRANSFER modation, buffet breakfast, 24th 2014. Every Saturday from May 10th to To be con rmed when welcome brieng in English, Special departure dates for September 13th 2014. booking the tour luggage transportation, at least 6 persons! Additionally every Sunday from Mantua/Verona–Bolzano transfer from Bolzano to June 29th to August 24th, 2014.

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Trento Stroll through the Alpine town’s Medieval centre and visit Buonconsiglio Castle. | | | 310 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Grappa The King of Italian Spirits, best savoured at its picturesque home, Bassano. Treviso Compact and elegant Bolzano–Bassano–Venice historic town, one of northern Italy’s unsung jewels. Across the beautiful Brenta Valley

5. Vicenza–Padova (50 km, elevation Possibility either to book extra nights or Bolzano/Bozen up 20 m). You leave Vicenza and ride to combine with the following tours: Lago di Caldaro past the splendid “Villa Rotonda” by Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (p. 31), Palladio. Through the village of Costozza Venice–Porecˇ (p. 46). Salorno and then cycling along the river Bac- Adige ROUTE PROFILE Borgo chiglione you arrive at the ancient Trento Valsugana university city of Padova. Here you will - Total Length: 310/350 km Laghi Levico be astonished by the exceptional abun- - Total vertical up: 410/1,010 mt di Caldonazzo dance of architectural masterpieces and - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved e Levico Bassano del Grappa art treasures. - Train connection among the overnight Treviso Brenta 6. Padova–Chioggia (60 km, elevation stays: every day Sile up 0 m). From Padova you cycle along - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by Lago Vicenza Mestre canals. The rivers Bacchiglione and taking the train: day 2 and day 3. di Garda Verona Padova Brenta, which were once important Bacchiglione Venezia commercial waterways, accompany you It is generally an easy route that runs on Adige to the picturesque shing village Chiog- quiet sideroads and secure cycle lanes. Chioggia gia, in the Venetian lagoon. Some hilly sections on day 2 and day 3. 7. Chioggia–Mestre (35 km, elevation up 0 m). Across the islands of Pellestrina PARKING DAY BY DAY town of Marostica, which is famous for and Lido, which separate the open sea In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no 1. Bolzano. Arrival. The bi lingual capital its castle “Castello da Bassano” and the from the Venetian lagoon, you reach the reservation possible, to be paid on-site). city of South Tyrol is a renowned com- stone chessboard on its main square. stately, beautiful Venice. After a nice mercial and tourist centre which has a At the end of this stage Vicenza awaits long stroll in the city’s fascinating maze BY PLANE rich history. Today the Italian and the you: this is the famous city of the Re- of lanes and bridges you will ride to Bolzano is very well connected to the German cultures and ways of life join naissance architect Andrea Palladio, Mestre along the 4 km-long bridge following airports (90–120 min): Verona together. The historical centre of Bolzano who built plenty of extraordinary build- “Ponte della Libertà”. (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). is enchantingly beautiful. ings around here. 8. Mestre. Departure after breakfast. 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation up 370 m). Your cycling tour starts with a ride along the banks of the Adige river, PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I13 past fruit orchards, vineyards and through the town of Ora, Egna and Salorno. Along the embankments you SEASONS TRANSFERS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE ride towards Trento with its wonderful Standard season: from To be con rmed when BICYCLE RENT Local taxes frescoed buildings. Possibility to shorten April 26th to June 27th 2014 booking the tour 65 € Girolibero bike (approx 10-15 €). the stage by taking the train in several and from September 6th to Mestre/Venice–Bolzano 145 € Electro-bike Train journey from Trento train stations along the way. September 13th 2014. 60 € per person (bike 15 € Helmet to Lake area (approx. 40 3. Trento–Bassano del Grappa (35 km High season: from June included). Available on EXTRA NIGHTS minutes, 5 € per person + by train + 60 km by bike, elevation up 28th to September 5th 2014. Saturday and Sunday (other In Bolzano bike). 600 m). The whole stage schedules 95 days only on request). 65 € Cat. A / B - DBL Ferry-boat transfers on day km altogether. We suggest anyway to REDUCTIONS 85 € Cat. A / B - SGL 7 (altogehter about 25 € per shorten it of minimum 20 km by taking a SELF GUIDED TOUR 3rd person in room: In Mestre person + bike). train from Trento to the lakes area, Cat. B (2/3* Hotels) 100 € Cat. B 55 €/65 € Cat. B - DBL/SGL avoiding in this way the only uphill sec- 628 € DBL 130 € Cat. A DEPARTURES + 145 € SGL 65 €/85 € Cat. A - DBL/SGL tion of the stage. Starting from the spring INCLUDED Every Saturday, from April In Venice of Lake Caldonazzo and Levico, you will + 30 € High season IN THE PRICE 26th to September 13th From 90 € Cat. A / B - DBL follow the river Brenta across its beautiful 7 nights hotel accom- 2014. From 150 € Cat. A / B - SGL valley up to Bassano del Grappa, which Cat. A (3/4* Hotels) modation, buffet breakfast, Special departure dates for offers you its famous wooden-roofed 710 € DBL welcome brieng in English, at least 6 persons! bridge and a wonderful historical centre. + 198 € SGL luggage trans portation, route 4. Bassano–Vicenza (40 km, elevation + 40 € High season descriptions & maps, 7-days up 20 m). After a few kilometres from Hotline service. Bassano you reach the little fortied

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The Prosecco route Pedal through the vineyards to the gates of Treviso. Asolo Celebrated as | | | 275 km | 8 Days/7 Nights “The City of a Hundred Horizons” for its mountain settings. Three Peaks of Lavaredo Breathtaking, whether Bolzano–Cortina–Venice viewed from above or below. From the Dolomites to the Adriatic Sea

8. Mestre/Venice. Departure after Brunico/Bruneck Dobbiaco/Toblach breakfast. Possibility either to book extra DOLOMITI/ nights or to combine with following DOLOMITEN TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO DREI ZINNEN tours: Venice–Mantua Bike and Boat Cortina Calalzo (p. 31), Venice–Porecˇ (p. 46). Bolzano/Bozen d’Ampezzo ROUTE PROFILE

Belluno - Total Length: 275 km Piave - Total vertical up: 2,010 m Valdobbiadene - Terrain: 87% asphalt, 13% unpaved Asolo - Train connection among the overnight Brenta Sile Adige Treviso stays: day 2 and day 7 Verona - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by Mestre Venezia MARE taking the train: day 2, day 5 and ADRIATICO day 6.

You will ride on back-roads with low DAY BY DAY vineyards. If you like to go for a wine 7. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km, trafc or for short stretches on unpaved 1. Bolzano. Arrival. tasting, today is your day! elevation up 0 m). Leaving Treviso behind paths in good condition. Mostly in the 2. Bolzano–Brunico–Dobbiaco (30 km 6. Valdobbiadene–Treviso (65 km, you follow the course of the river Sile up lowlands with some hilly sections. by bike + 70 km transfer, elevation up elevation up 290 m). From Valdobbia- to Casale. Here you’ll be surprised from 490 m). In the morning a private transfer dene you cycle southwards until you the “Cimitero dei Burci”, a “graveyard” of PARKING brings you to Brunico, a lively town with a cross the Piave river and enter the Po old cargo boats, abandoned along the In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no historical centre and rural surroundings. valley. You’ll cycle next to one of the river from the Sixties, to protest against reservation possible, to be paid on-site). The route is on a slightly uphill bicycle most important Palladian Villas, the Villa the rise of wheel transport. At the end of path along the river Rienz, that leads to Barbaro in Maser. From here on to the trip Venice awaits you for an evening BY PLANE Dobbiaco, close to the Austrian border. Treviso, a city surrounded by water, among canals and narrow streets; Bolzano is very well connected to the 3. Dobbiaco–Cortina (35 km, elevation situated at the con uence of the Sile and accommodation is in Mestre. A supple- following airports (90–120 min): Verona up 330 m). Leaving Dobbiaco you take Botteniga rivers. ment applies for lodging in Venice. (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). the cycle path along the Landro valley from where you admire the famous Three Peaks of Lavaredo. Going downhill PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I14 and southwards you reach Cortina d’Ampezzo. Cortina is a famous Ski and Mountainsport Resort, with a very SEASONS TRANSFERS private transfer Bolzano– elegant and lively centre, where you can Standard season: from To be con rmed when Brunico, route descriptions BICYCLE RENT go shopping. May 4th to June 28th 2014 booking the tour & maps, 7-days Hotline and from September 8th to 65 € Girolibero bike Mestre/Venice–Bolzano service. 4. Cortina–Belluno (40 km by bike + 40 145 € Electro-bike September 28th 2014. 60 € per person (bike includ- NOT INCLUDED km by train, elevation up 140 m). Today 15 € Helmet you pedal slightly downhill along the old High season: from June ed). Available on Saturday IN THE PRICE EXTRA NIGHTS railway route until you reach San Vito 29th to September 7th 2014. and Sunday (other days only Local taxes (approx 10-15 €). In Bolzano and then Calalzo. Landscape is here very on request). Train transfer from Calalzo to 65/85 € DBL/SGL relaxing: you cycle through the Cadore REDUCTIONS Belluno (approx. 1 hour, 6 € In Mestre woods, then stop in the small village of SELF GUIDED TOUR 3rd person in room: per person + bike). 65/85 € DBL/SGL Pieve, where you can see the birth house 3/4* Hotels 90 € DEPARTURES 655 € DBL In Venice of painter Titian. Train transfer from INCLUDED Every Sunday from May 4th From 90/150 € DBL/SGL Calalzo to Belluno (not included in price). + 180 € SGL IN THE PRICE to July 20th 2014 and from Night in Venice instead of 5. Belluno–Valdobbiadene (60 km, + 45 € High season 7 nights hotel accom- August 24th to September Mestre (luggage delivered elevation up 760 m). From Belluno you modation, breakfast buffet, 28th 2014. to the hotel) pedal along a slightly hilly Toscana-like welcome brieng in English, Special departure dates for From 90/150 € DBL/SGL landscape. You reach then Valdobbia- luggage transportation, at least 6 persons! dene, in the heart of the famous land of Prosecco, with its more than 4500 mq of

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| | | 320 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Venice–Porecˇ The lands of the ancient Republic of Venice

Tagliamento

Isonzo I Palmanova

Portogruaro Monfalcone Latisana SLO Oderzo Aquileia Marano Treviso Lagunare Golfo San Donà Trieste di Piave Grado di Trieste Quarto Piave d’Altino Caorle Laguna Piran di Venezia Mestre Jesolo Portorož

Venezia MAR Buje ADRIATICO

HR Porecˇ

DAY BY DAY pesca” (stretches of lagoon enclosed by a 9-pointed star, or Grado, a very fa- cycling along cycle paths through fa- 1. Mestre (Venice). Individual arrival in earthen dikes where extensive sh mous coastal place laying on a nice mous holiday resorts such as Koper, rst Mestre (the mainland of Venice). The city farming is practised) and “casoni” lagoon. for a long period a Venetian and then of Venice will captivate you with its (constructions used by shermen in the 5. Palmanova/Aquileia/Grado–Trieste Austrian town, and Piran, another splendour, acknowledged worldwide. past during the shing season). Next you (70/50/50 km elevation up 420 m) important town which was ruled over for 2. Mestre–Jesolo/Caorle/seacoast will go to the town of Portogruaro, one of The trip can be reduced of 30 km by a long time by Venice. You then nally (40/60 km, elevation up 0 m). After a the main centres in the period of the taking a train at the end of the stage arrive in Portorož, a town renowned for few kilometres on bike, you take the “Serenissima Republic of Venice”, which from Monfalcone to Trieste. its spa and bathing facilities. ferry and then the vaporetto, passing in is still impressive even today with its You will once again head towards the 7. Portorož–Porecˇ (55 km, elevation up front of Piazza San Marco. Then you will glorious “Palazzi” or “palaces”. sea: the gulf of Trieste awaits you, with 470 m). Cycling southwards, you will reach Punta Sabbioni, the area furthest 4. Portogruaro–Palmanova/Aquileia/ many possible stops along the way, such pass through the salt mines of Secovlje, south of the Adriatic coast, which is to Grado (60/70/85 km, elevation up 30 as Duino with its two castles, Sistiana a large Slovenian town with a humid the north of Venice. From here you cycle m). The trip can be reduced of 20 km by with its characteristic bay and Miramare environment, which is a key area as along the stunning seacoast, with taking a train from Portogruato to Lati- with its famous castle built according to regards ornithology. Some kms later you various opportunities for a refreshing sana. the wishes of Massimiliano d’Asburgo, will cross the Croatian border down bath in the sea. The overnight will be in You will spend the day between the situated in a beautiful park of more than along Istria, the Adriatic sea’s largest one of the places along this famous region of Veneto and Friuli Venezia 20 hectares in size. Just a few kilome- peninsula. In the end you will reach coastline. Giulia, passing through an area abundant tres lie between you and Trieste, the Porecˇ, the tourism capital of Croatia, 3. Jesolo/Caorle/seacoast–Portogrua- in water and history, among rivers, ancient port of the Asburgic Empire, with its Eufrasian Basilica, which, in ro (70/40 km, elevation up 0 m). Leaving canals and ancient Roman towns. Your which has much to offer in the way of 1997, was declared Patrimony of Hu- the sea behind you, you will head north destination will be one of these three: attractions. manity by UNESCO. towards the Julian Alps, leaving the sea Aquileia, with its Roman excavations, 6. Trieste–Portorož (45 km, elevation 8 . P o r e cˇ . After breakfast, end of ser- behind you. You will be passing through Palmanova, named “the starry city” up 470 m). After a few kilometres you vices. Return to Venice by boat (option). an area with a multitude of “Valli da because from above the town resembles will cross over into Slovenia, often

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Caorle A fishing community on the Venetian lagoon and one of the oldest Adriatic resorts. Trieste Stylish and cosmopolitan, the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s gateway to the sea. Porecˇ A historical melting pot on the Istrian coast, from the Romans to the Venetians.

VARIATION ON DAY 2 AND DAY 3 PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I04 If hotels on the standard itinerary are not available. SEASONS In Porecˇ REDUCTIONS Monfalcone–Trieste 2. Mestre/Venice–Oderzo (65/45/30 Standard season: 65 € DBL 3rd person in room: (approx. 25 min, 6 €). from April 12th to June 6th 100 € km elevation up 0 m). The destination of 85 € SGL DEPARTURES the rst stage is Oderzo, a small town 2014 and from September In Venice INCLUDED Each Saturday from April with Roman origins. You will have the 14th to September 27th From 90 € DBL IN THE PRICE 12th to July 19th 2014 possibility to shorten the stage with a 2014. From 150 € SGL 7 nights hotel accom- and from August 23rd to train transfer to Quarto d’Altino or San High season: from June 7th FERRY BOAT modation, breakfast buffet, September 27th 2014. Donà di Piave. to September 13th 2014. TRANSFER welcome brieng in English, Additionally each Friday 3. Oderzo–Portogruaro (45 km eleva- To be con rmed when luggage transportation, from May 30th to July 11th tion up 0 m). A trip along a quiet plain booking the tour route descriptions & maps, 2014. rich of water will lead you to Portogruaro, SELF GUIDED TOUR Transfer Porecˇ-Venice by Vaporetto + ferry transfer Special departure dates for an important centre of the ancient‚ 2/3* Hotels boat around 8 am (approx. from Venice to Punta Sab- at least 6 persons! “Serenissima Republic of Venice”. 628 € DBL 150 min.). Price 60-65 bioni (for the departure of + 198 € SGL € per person (+ 10 € for July 19th the ferry transfer ROUTE PROFILE + 70 € High season own bikes), depending on will be replaced by a coach - Total Length: 320/340 km the season. The booking transfer), 7-days Hotline - Total vertical up: 1.390 mt (complete with full names, service. BICYCLE RENT - Terrain: 92% asphalt, 8% unpaved passport number, national- NOT INCLUDED 70 € Girolibero bike - Train connection among the overnight ity, date of birth) is com- IN THE PRICE stays: NO 145 € Electro-bike pulsory when sending the Local taxes - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by 15 € Helmet reservation. In case of strike (approx 10-15 €). taking the train: day 4 and 5. EXTRA NIGHTS or any other reason inter- Train transfers: In Mestre rupting the ferry service, a Portogruaro–Latisana You will ride the rst three along at 65 € DBL coach transfer service will (approx. 10 min, roads, across the Veneto and Friuli plain, 85 € SGL be organized. 5 € per person); and the last three stages on slightly hillier sections.

BY PLANE Venice is well connected with the following airports: Venice (VCE) Treviso (TSF), Verona (VRN), Trieste (TRS).

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Adige River cycle path Along Italy’s longest bike route, from Bolzano to Riva del Garda. Lake Garda | | | 315 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Once the playground of the rich and famous, still elegant and a natural haven. Ferrara A fl agship of Renaissance town Bolzano–Ferrara planning, now “Italy’s Cycling Capital”. The Waterways of Northern Italy

Bolzano/Bozen nights or to combine with the tour: Veneto (p. 38). Adige Trento ROUTE PROFILE Riva - Total Length: 315/340 km del Garda Rovereto Piave - Total vertical up: 570/770 km - Terrain: 97% asphalt, 3% unpaved Brenta Treviso - Train connection among the overnight Sile Vicenza stays: every day Desenzano Verona Padova Venezia - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by

Peschiera Mincio Laguna taking the train: day 2 and 6 di Venezia Adige MARE ADRIATICO Mantova Mainly along at roads with only a few Governolo Po Sermide rolling parts. The region of South Tyrol is Ostiglia S.Benedetto Stellata Po Delta provided with an excellently-built cyc- del Po Ro lelanes system. You can ride almost Ferrara exclusively on well-planned, traf c-free cycle lanes, part of which run along the DAY BY DAY Abbey at San Benedetto: designed by catch the scenic cycling path of the Adige banks. The second part of the tour 1. Bolzano. Arrival. Bolzano is a famous Giulio Romano for the Benedictine Order, Burana Canal, tree-lined all the way to is largely along the ats of the Po plains, commercial and tourist centre and also a it remains one of the most magni cent in Ferrara. Once ruled by the Este dynasty mostly on tarmac cycle paths along historical and cultural connection be- northern Italy. Carrying on along the Po and a key city state of the Italian Renais- rivers and canals, or quiet country roads. tween the Italian and the German world. cycleway, you arrive at our night stop at sance, Ferrara is now a thriving univer- 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km, elevation Ostiglia or Sermide, a crossing which sity town and Italy’s “Cycling Capital”. PARKING up 370 m). Today you will ride mostly witnessed some of the ercest ghting 7. Ferrara round tour (65/45 km, In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no along the Adige River, through orchards, at the end of the Second World War. elevation up 0). Back to the Po river you reservation possible, to be paid on-site). vineyards passing the villages of Ora, 6. Ostiglia/Sermide–Ferrara (65/45 reach the rural town of Ro where you Egna and Salorno. The dam pathways km, elevation up 0 m). You resume along can admire one of the last remaining BY PLANE lead then to Trento. Possibility to shorten the Po and arrive at Stellata, a settle- oating mills on the Po. You can choose Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) the stage by taking the train in several ment where the star-shaped Rocca to go back from the same way or make a with the following airports: Verona train stations along the way. Possente, an 11th century fortress, once detour on the countryside. (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). 3. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 controlled the river’s shipping from the 8. Ferrara. After breakfast end of km by bike + ferry, elevation up 200 m). oodplain. At Bondeno you veer off to services. Possibility either to book extra Always pedalling along the Adige you reach Rovereto and Mori. From here westwards towards Lake Garda. After a PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I21 short ascent, a refreshing descent will follow and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The ferry cruise takes you to the SEASONS EXTRA NIGHTS 4-hour ferry cruise through southern part of the lake. Standard season: from In Bolzano Lake Garda, route descrip- April 19th to June 27th 2014 SELF GUIDED TOUR 65/85 € DBL/SGL tions & maps, 7-days Hotline 4. Peschiera/Desenzano–Mantua 3/4* Hotels and from September 6th to In Ferrara service. (45/70 km, elevation up 20/200 m). 682 € DBL Today you will follow one of the most October 6th 2014. 65/85 € DBL/SGL NOT INCLUDED High Season: from June + 198 € SGL famous Italian cycle paths, passing + 30 € High season REDUCTIONS IN THE PRICE through the villages of Borghetto and 28th to September 5th 2014. 3rd person in room: Local taxes (approx 10-15 €) Valeggio sul Mincio. The stage ends in 100 € DEPARTURES Mantua, wonderful art city. BICYCLE RENT INCLUDED Every Saturday from April 5. Mantua–Ostiglia/Sermide (45/65 65 € Girolibero bike IN THE PRICE 19th to October 6th 2014. km, elevation up 0 m). Leaving Mantua 145 € Electro-bike 7 nights hotel accom- Special departure dates for along its lakes and the Mincio, you arrive 15 € Helmet modation, buffet breakfast, at least 6 persons! at the historic lock of Governolo and join welcome brie ng in English, Italy’s largest waterway: the majestic luggage transportation, River Po. A detour leads to Polirone

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Lake Garda Sail across the lake beloved by poets and artists through the ages. Ferrara and Mantua | | | 300 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Two Renaissance jewels which have fl ourished along the Po river banks. Po Delta and Adriatic Sea Cycling From Lake Garda to the Adriatic through broad swathe of lagoons, fi shing farms and beaches. Peschiera–Ferrara–Po Delta

also boasts the area’s richest historic Treviso centre. Pushing deeper into the lagoon, you explore its shing farms, or “val- Verona Venezia leys”, with their shermen’s shacks, salt Peschiera marshes and, hopefully, spot some of

Adige the Delta’s unmissable amingoes. The Mincio MARE ADRIATICO loop takes you back to our hotel. Mantova Governolo 8. Po Delta. Breakfast and end of tour. Po Sermide Ostiglia S.Benedetto Stellata Po ROUTE PROFILE Pomposa Delta - Total Length: 300 km del Po Ferrara - Total vertical up: 0 m Ostellato Comacchio - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 3, 4 and 5 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by DAY BY DAY Burana Canal, tree-lined all the way to 6. Ostellato–Po Delta (55/60 km, taking the train: day 4 and 6 1. Arrival in Peschiera del Garda, Ferrara. Once ruled by the Este dynasty elevation up 0 m). The Po di Primaro a forti ed town surrounded by the lake’s and a key city state of the Italian Renais- cycleway leads to the 9th century Abbey The tour is completely on at terrain and waters, and renowned for its 19th sance, Ferrara is now a thriving univer- of Pomposa, a major centre of learning in along cycling tracks – typically embank- century military architecture and art sity town and Italy’s “Cycling Capital”. the Dark Ages. Cycling towards the coast ments and country paths – and occa- treasures. 5. Ferrara–Ostellato (40 km, elevation through the Mesola Forest Nature Re- sional minor roads with low-level traf c. 2. Peschiera del Garda–Mantua (45 up 0 m). Today’s stage offers the discov- serve, you emerge at the tiny shermen’s Some stretches within the Po Delta km, elevation up 0 m). From Peschiera, ery of two of the Este family’s celebrated harbour of Goro, with its picturesque Reserve are on rough (but unchallenging) skirting the Mincio, you follow Italy’s Delizie: Belriguardo and Verginese. Built waterfront. Welcome to the Po Delta, its tracks, although the tour is largely on most famous cycleway and reach Man- between the 14th and 16th centuries, shing “valleys” and brackish lagoon, tarmacked surfaces. tua. Along the way, you discover the both form part of the collection of coun- home to over 300 species of birds. settlements of Borghetto, with its iconic try retreats and hunting lodges playfully 7. Po Delta Round Tour (50 km, eleva- PARKING watermills and Valeggio, with its Parco known as “Delights”. Along with Ferrara tion up 0 m). Following the cycleway that In Peschiera: free in unguarded public Sigurtà, a green oasis spread across itself, in its day a pioneering example of joins seven beaches through a landscape parking at approx. 1 km from the hotel. 600,000 sqm. town planning, these villas are listed as of pine woods and white dunes, you 3. Mantua–Ostiglia/Sermide (45/65 World Heritage Sites by virtue of their arrive at Comacchio, a small town in the BY PLANE km, elevation up 0 m). Leaving Mantua seemless fusion of Renaissance vision heart of the lagoon and considered the Peschiera is very well connected to the along its lakes and the Mincio, you arrive and natural landscape. Overnight stop at Delta’s capital. Founded on 13 islets following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice at the historic lock of Governolo and join Ostellato. linked by bridges and canals, Comacchio (VCE). Italy’s largest waterway: the majestic River Po. A detour leads to Polirone Abbey at San Benedetto: designed by PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I22 Giulio Romano for the Benedictine Order, it remains one of the most magni cent in northern Italy. Carrying on along the Po EXTRA NIGHTS REDUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE cycleway, you arrive to the overnight stay In Peschiera 3rd person in room: SELF GUIDED TOUR 65/90 € DBL/SGL 100 € Local taxes (approx 10-15 €). in Ostiglia or Sermide, a crossing which 2/3/4*Hotels witnessed some of the ercest ghting at In Po Delta area INCLUDED DEPARTURES 628 € DBL 50/65 € DBL/SGL IN THE PRICE Every Sunday from April the end of the Second World War. + 180 € SGL 4. Ostiglia/Sermide–Ferrara (65/45 TRANSFERS 7 nights accommodation, 13th to July 20th and from km, elevation up 0 m). You resume along To be con rmed when breakfast buffet, lug- August 24th to October 5th the Po and arrive at Stellata, a settle- booking the tour gage transportation, route 2014. BICYCLE RENT Po Delta–Peschiera del description & maps, 7-days Special departure dates for ment where the star-shaped Rocca 65 € Girolibero bike Garda Hotline service. at least 6 persons! Possente, an 11th century fortress, once 15 € Helmet controlled the river’s shipping from the 290 € (up to 4 persons) oodplain. At Bondeno you veer off to 350 € (5-8 persons) catch the scenic cycling path of the

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Cycle paths Among the best in Italy, to suit all abilities – from meadows to mountains. | | | 160 km | 7 Days/6 Nights Centre-based A single home from home, enabling you to plan your excursions at will. Lake Caldaro Nestled in the Dolomites South Tyrol Valleys near Bolzano: swim, hike, enjoy the wine route. Bike & relax around Bolzano

I Vipiteno/Sterzing Isarco/Eisack A Fortezza

Bressanone/Brixen

Merano/Meran Etsch Renon/Ritten Ponte Gardena

Appiano Bolzano/Bozen Lago di Caldaro Ora/Auer

DAY BY DAY 5. Bressanone–Bolzano (45 km, start cycling along the Venosta valley, All the routes are on rural/secondary 1. Bolzano. Arrival at the hotel. elevation up 500 m). From Bolzano the among apple orchards and vineyards. roads and cycle paths. There are some 2. Renon roundtour (35 km, elevation train takes you to Bressanone, the On your way you ride past sleepy little short ascents and descents mainly in the up 300 m). In the morning you will take artistic and cultural capital of the Isarco towns like Nalles and Andriano. Still rst stage on Renon plateau. the cable railway for an evocative round valley. Here you can visit the baroque cycling along the cycle lane you reach trip on the Renon plateau, the riviera of Cathedral and a interesting Pharmacy your destination, Bolzano. PARKING the Dolomites. In the 1600s, Renon was Museum, located in a nearly 500-year- 7. Bolzano. After breakfast end of In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no the preferred summer residence of old townhouse. From Bressanone you services. reservation possible, to be paid on-site). aristocratic families from Vienna and cycle along the valley, passing through Bolzano, who built splendid alpine Fortezza and returning nally to the ROUTE PROFILE BY PLANE cottages which you can admire today. capital of South Tyrol. - Total Length: 160 km Bolzano is very well connected to the 3. Bolzano–Lake Caldaro (45 km, 6. Merano–Bolzano (35 km elevation - Total vertical up: 1,250 mt following airports (90–120 min): Verona elevation up 400 m). At the beginning of up 50 m). By train you reach Merano and - Terrain: 100% asphalt (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). the tour you leave Bolzano behind you and slightly uphill you will pass the higher Appiano. This is followed by a PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I23 descent through the vineyards to the Lake Caldaro, one of the largest lakes in South Tyrol, where bathing is possible SEASONS EXTRA NIGHTS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE from May to September. By Ora follow Standard season: from In Bolzano SELF GUIDED TOUR Cable railway the cycle path along the Adige north April 12th to June 28th 2014 65 € DBL 4* Hotel (Hotel Scala or Bolzano–Renon (about 12 €); again. and from September 6th to 85 € SGL equivalent if not available) Local taxes. 4. Bolzano. Day of rest. Take the oppor- September 27th 2014. INCLUDED 520 € DBL DEPARTURES tunity for a visit to Bolzano or to relax in High season: from June IN THE PRICE + 198 € SGL Every day from April 12th to the hotel. Its mediaeval city centre, 29th to September 5th 2014. 6 nights hotel accommoda- + 30 € High season September 27th 2014. Gothic and Romanesque churches and tion, buffet breakfast, route bilingual signage give it a unique avour description and maps, train of a city at the crossroads of Italian and tickets for Bolzano–Bressa- BICYCLE RENT Austrian cultures. For those who wish to none and Bolzano–Merano, 65 € Girolibero bike 7-days Hotline service. pedal also today, we suggest the itiner- 145 € Electro-bike ary to Trento along a very nice and quiet 15 € Helmet cycle path (approx. 70 kms) from where you go back to Bolzano by train.

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Temperate climate Naturally beautiful, ideal for cycling and celebrated for its wines. Sirmione | | | 165 km | 7 Days/6 Nights Ancient lakeside settlement, beloved by Catullus, Tennyson, Maria Callas...Tortelli of Valeggio. Pasta in Paradise, Lake Garda since the 14th century, on the banks of the Mincio. Roundtour from Peschiera del Garda

Lago di Sirmione Garda Adige Bussolengo Peschiera Desenzano Verona

Adige

Solferino Valeggio sul Mincio

Mincio

Laghi di Mantova Mantova

DAY BY DAY beautiful cities in Veneto. Don’t miss the 7. Peschiera. Departure or possibility BY PLANE 1. Arrival in Peschiera del Garda, Roman Arena, the stunning Church of either to book extra nights or to combine Peschiera is very well connected to the a veritable city-fortress completely San Zeno and, naturally, Juliet’s House. with the following tours: Venice–Mantua/ following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice surrounded by water, an architectural Transfer by train from Verona to Peschi- Mantua–Venice Bike&Boat (pp. 31-33). (VCE). jewel of art and culture. era del Garda for the night. 2. Peschiera, round tour 6. Peschiera del Garda–Mantua ROUTE PROFILE (40 km, elevation up 170 m). First day on (35 km, elevation up 20 m). An evocative - Total Length: 165 km bike among fruit plantations and vine- route which is suitable for everyone - Total vertical up: 650 m yards of the eminent Lugana still white along one of the most famous and loved - Terrain: 100% asphalt wine, characteristic of this region. You cycle paths of Italy. From Lake Garda to arrive in Solferino, the site of the famous Mantua between the provinces of Verona You will ride along routes which are on battle that ended the Second War of and Mantua inside the Regional Nature rural/secondary roads or cycle paths in Independence, providing the basis for a Park of the river Mincio. Transfer by train the area of Garda Lake. The entrance to united Italy. from Mantua to Peschiera for the over- Verona has slightly more trafc but only 3. Peschiera del Garda–Desenzano del night stay. for a short stretch. Garda (45 km, elevation up 310 m). In the search for another highly-valued place on the west bank of the lake, you PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I24 will ride on to Desenzano where there will be a round tour on the sweet morainic hills. For the less athletic, the town offers SEASONS EXTRA NIGHTS and Mantua–Pescheria as in various possibilities to pass several hours Standard season: from In Peschiera the itinerary, 7-day service April 12th to May 24th 2014 SELF GUIDED TOUR 55 € DBL hotline. relaxing peacefully on the banks of the 3* Hotel (Hotel Puccini or and from September 13th to 85 € SGL NOT INCLUDED lake. Transfer by train from Desenzano to equivalent if not available) September 27th 2014. In Verona IN THE PRICE Peschiera for the overnight stay. 510 € DBL High season: from May 65 € DBL Local taxes (approx 8 €). 4. Peschiera del Garda. Day of rest and + 198 € SGL 25th to September 12th 85 € SGL DEPARTURES relax. Use the opportunity for a visit to + 80 € High season the walled city and its lake. Alternative 2014. INCLUDED Every day from April 12th to excursion to Sirmione by public trans- IN THE PRICE September 27th 2014. portation. 6 nights hotel accommoda- BICYCLE RENT tion, buffet breakfast, 5. Peschiera del Garda–Verona 65 € Girolibero bike (45 km, elevation up 150 m). Pedal route description & maps, 145 € Electro-bike train tickets for Desenzano– towards Verona, the city of Romeo and 15 € Helmet Juliet, with the river Adige passing Peschiera, Verona–Peschiera through it; this is one of the most

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Euganean Hills Regional Park A lush and striking outcrop of volcanic origin. Padova One of the Veneto’s | | | 160 km | 7 Days/6 Nights Cities of Art, home of Giotto’s remarkable Scrovegni frescos. Thermal springs and wellness Terme Euganee Abano Terme speaks for itself. Abano and Montegrotto

antique books. The itinerary continues Sile towards the majestic Villa dei Vescovi, Mestre designed in the sixteenth century. A few relaxing hours can be spent while Brenta Venezia Bacchiglione visiting the interiors and enjoying a Brenta Mira picnic in the gardens. Padova Stra 7. Abano/Montegrotto. Departure after Abano breakfast. Possibility either to book extra Terme Praglia nights or to combine with tour Mantua– Venice/Venice–Mantua (p. 30-31), Luvigliano LAGUNA Veneto (p. 38). Montegrotto DI VENEZIA terme ROUTE PROFILE Arquà Petrarca - Total Length: 160 km - Total vertical up: 240 m Monselice Chioggia - Terrain: 85% asphalt, 15% unpaved

Four simple itineraries totalling about 160 km, all relatively level except for the DAY BY DAY For those who prefer cycling, the new Sceriman Widmann in Mira and Villa rst, which includes very little difference 1. Abano/Montegrotto. 60-km cycle path around the Euganei Foscari, also known as the Malcontenta, in altitude. The routes are along safe Arrival at the hotel. hills is the ideal choice. designed in 1559 by Andrea Palladio and cycle paths or roads with very little 2. Euganei Hills (45 km, elevation up 5. Brenta Canal (50 km by bike + now a Unesco World Heritage Site. The trafc. 170 m). A delightful itinerary through the 50 km by train, elevation up 0 m). return journey is by train, from Mestre. Natural Park of the Euganei hills and its From Abano you join the Brenta canal, 6. Praglia–Villa dei Vescovi (30 km, PARKING wonderful sights. The rst stop will be in which was built by the Venetians to link elevation up 70 m). You conclude the In Abano/Montegrotto: free in the the gardens of Villa Barbarigo in Valsan- Padua with the Venice lagoon and week with an easy itinerary that will take private parking place of the hotel. zibio, one of the most important exam- immediately became a crucial communi- you to the celebrated Benedictine abbey ples of the classical Italian garden. You cation and trade route. Sumptuous villas in Praglia, founded in the eleventh BY PLANE will then visit the medieval town of Arquà were built here between the sixteenth century and for centuries a key agricul- Abano and Montegrotto Terme are well Petrarca. The destination of your excur- and eighteenth centuries. Three of the tural management centre for the Paduan connected (60-120 min.) with the follow- sion is the walled town of Monselice, a most stately buildings are the eight- countryside. The abbey is now a centre ing airports: Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), strategic medieval fortress. eenth-century Villa Pisani in Stra, Villa of excellence for the restoration of Treviso (TSF) and Bologna (BLQ). 3. Padua (35 km, elevation up 0 m). A series of country roads will take you to the unique sixteenth-century Villa Emo PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I25 Capodilista, now also a prestigious vine-growing and wine-making estate. Following the Bacchiglione river you will SEASONS HALF BOARD NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE come to Padua. You will have a whole Standard season: from 80 € 3 dinners included SELF GUIDED TOUR Local taxes. free afternoon to discover the wonders April 19th to June 22nd (3-course meals) 3* Hotel (Hotel Aqua or Special treatments at the this city can offer, such as the Scrovegni 2014 and from September 140 € 6 dinners included equivalent if not available) hotel Spa. Chapel, frescoed by Giotto and a Unesco 6th to October 4th 2014. (3-course meals) 435 € DBL Train transfer: World Heritage Site, the Basilica of St High season: from June Beverages not included. + 200 € SGL Mestre–Terme Euganee (ap- Anthony, the Prato della Valle square, 23rd to September 5th INCLUDED + 40 € High season prox 45 min, 8 € per person) Andrea Mantegna’s frescoes and the 2014. IN THE PRICE prestigious university founded in 1222. 6 nights hotel accommoda- DEPARTURES tion, buffet breakfast, route Every day from April 19th to 4. Free day. You can use this day off to BICYCLE RENT description and maps, October 4th 2014. relax and enjoy a wellbeing package at 70 € Girolibero bike swimming pool entrance, the hotel, or you can simply spend the 145 € Electro-bike 7-days Hotline service. whole day at the pool. Alternatively, you 15 € Helmet can take a 45-minute train ride into Venice and discover its calli and canals.

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Truffles The famous local “Black Diamonds” are often used in Piedmontese gastronomy. Vineyards Cycle through | | | 240 km | 8 Days/7 Nights acre upon acre of vineyards and lush, hilly farmland. Langhe The renowned wine-producing region, Piedmont home of Barolo, Barbera and Dolcetto. Wine and food lovers’ paradise!

Po Casale Monferrato Torino

Alessandria Asti Tanaro

Bormida

Neive

Canelli Alba Acqui Terme

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY Today you have a choice between lands. Passing through the small villages The highest elevation gap is on the 1. Alessandria. Arrival in Alessandria, a cycling across the Asti hills and their on the right side of the Po river you will stages Acqui Terme–Alba and city divided by the river Tanaro. Worth a nature parks and a trip by train to Torino, return to Alessandria where the tour Asti–Casale Monferrato. A bit more visit is Piazza della Libertà and Piazza which can be reached in about one hour. ends. trafc is to be faced when approaching Duomo with its wonderful neoclassical Torino, the rst capital of Italy, is a city 8. Alessandria. Departure after break- the towns of Alessandria and Asti. cathedral. with splendid monuments, tree-lined fast. Possibility to book extra nights. 2. Alessandria–Acqui Terme (50 km, roads and ancient cafés, which offer a PARKING elevation up 530 m). You cycle for a few choice of chocolate-based specialties. ROUTE PROFILE In Alessandria: private garage at a cost Kilometers along the Strada Franca, an 6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (55 km, - Total Length: 240/275 km of approx 12 € per day close to the hotel ancient road dating back to 1454. You elevation up 700 m). Take advantage of - Total vertical up: 2,630/2,930 m (no reservation possible, to be paid will pass across smooth hills, woods and the hospitality of the wine cellars and - Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved on-site). small isolated villages where you will be restaurants along the way, which offer - Train connection among the overnight able to taste local products and excellent an excellent eno-gastronomical choice. stays: day 2, 6 and 7. BY PLANE local wines (Barbera and Dolcetto In Monferrato you will eventually meet - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by Alessandria is well connected d’Acqui among others). Acqui Terme: the river Po, the longest river in Italy. taking the train: day 7. (60 – 180 min.) with the following famous for its spring waters, like the 7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria airports: Torino (TRN), Bergamo Orio al “Bollente” situated in the historical (45 km, elevation up 150 m). Further Tour of an average difculty mainly Serio (BGY) and Milano Malpensa (MXP). centre. cycling across green hills and cultivated running on paved roads with low trafc. 3. Acqui Terme–Alba (55 km, elevation up 1,000 m). You come across the famous hills of the Langhe, the country- PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I05 side and the vineyards as well as the splendid small villages of Montabone, Rocchetta Palafea and Canelli. The stage EXTRA NIGHTS route descriptions & maps, DEPARTURES ends in Alba, home of the most precious In Alessandria 7-days Hotline service. Every Saturday from April SELF GUIDED TOUR 55 € DBL 19th to October 4th 2014. of the truf es, the Tartufo Bianco, and of 3/4* Hotels NOT INCLUDED 75 € SGL IN THE PRICE Special departure dates for the famous “Dolcetto d’Alba”. 655 € DBL Local taxes (approx 10 €). at least 6 persons! 4. Alba–Asti (35 km, elevation up 250 + 175 € SGL REDUCTIONS m). A route through vineyards and along 3rd person in room: Train transfer to Torino panoramic paths which will eventually 100 € (approx. 45 min., 7 € per person + bike ). take you to Asti in the heart of Monfer- BICYCLE RENT INCLUDED rato. Do visit the historical centre with 70 € Girolibero bike IN THE PRICE its famous towers, the Romanic monu- 15 € Helmet 7 nights hotel accom- ments and the splendid Gothic cathedral. modation, breakfast buffet, 5. Excursion to Torino or Asti round luggage transportation, tour (35 km, elevation up 300 m).

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Pisa The ancient university town renowned for its iconic Tower, a UNESCO Heritage Site. | | | 225 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Montecatini Terme This charming spa town in the hills has attracted visitors for centuries. Florence Cradle of Tuscany the Renaissance and relished by art lovers worldwide. Between Pisa and Florence

Florence and reaching Pisa through a train transfer from Empoli or taking a train to Empoli and riding to Pisa along Montecatini Pistoia the river Arno. Lago di Terme 8. Pisa. Departure after breakfast. Massaciuccoli Collodi Possibility either to book extra nights or Lucca Poggio a Caiano to combine with tour: Umbria (p. 56) MONTI Vinci MAR PISANI Firenze ROUTE PROFILE TIRRENO Pisa Empoli - Total Length: 225/280 km Arno - Total vertical up: 1,110/1,640 m - Terrain: 88% asphalt, 12% unpaved - Train connection among the overnight stays: every day - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3, day 5 and 7.

The itinerary runs mostly on a at area DAY BY DAY esque itinerary will lead you among villas having one of the most evocative squares with some hilly parts which do not 1. Pisa. Arrival. The city is famous all of the Medici family, olive groves, vine- in Italy: Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral require particular athletic skills. over the world for its magic Piazza dei yards and beautiful historical farms, Square). From here back into the saddle, Miracoli with the characteristic leaning going past Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s immersed in the Tuscan atland, to reach PARKING tower, the bell tower of the city cathe- birthplace (visit to the museum possible). Florence In Pisa: free parking place at the rst dral. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage 5. Montecatini–Florence (50/65 km, 6. Florence. Free day. It will be up to you hotel, for the whole duration of the tour. since 1987, besides a large number of elevation up 150/400 m). Today you have to decide how to spend your time in one monuments it also offers a friendly and to choose either to start pedalling directly of the world’s most beautiful cities! BY PLANE lively atmosphere of a university city. from Montecatini or to shorten the trip 7. Florence–Empoli–Pisa (40/65 km by You can y to Pisa airport (PSA) with 2. Pisa–Lucca (30/45 km, elevation up through a short train transfer to Pistoia, bike + 40/65 km by train, elevation up various low cost companies. 20/100 m). Today you are pedalling rich in Romanesque and Renaissance 100/300 m). Today you can choose if northwards along the river Serchio for an monuments (in particular churches) and either starting pedalling directly from easy stage. For those who wish a slightly longer itinerary, there is the option of going towards Massaciuccoli Lake PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I06 before reaching Lucca. 3. Lucca–Montecatini (45 km, elevation up 280 m). Through a panoramic EXTRA NIGHTS NOT INCLUDED DEPARTURES IN THE PRICE road you reach the little village of Collodi In Pisa Every Saturday from April SELF GUIDED TOUR Local taxes: and the town of Pescia. In Collodi, where 60 € DBL 19th to October 4th 2014. 2/3/4* Hotels (approx 10-15 €). the author of Pinocchio spent his child- 90 € SGL Additionally every Monday 698 € DBL Train transfers: hood, you could visit the famous Pinoc- REDUCTIONS from June 30th to July 28th + 195 € SGL Montecatini–Pistoia (approx. chio’s Park (created in 1962) and the 3rd person in room: 2014. 10 min., 4 € per person); aristocratic Villa Garzoni. In Pescia you 100 € Special departure dates for Florence–Empoli (approx. at least 6 persons! could enjoy a quiet stroll among church- INCLUDED BICYCLE RENT 30 min., 6 € per person); es, palaces, Renaissance mansions and IN THE PRICE 70 € Girolibero bike Empoli–Pisa (approx. the local ower street market. 7 nights hotel accom- 15 € Helmet 30 min., 6 € per person). 4. Montecatini–Montecatini (60 km, modation, breakfast elevation up 310 m). Today’s route offers buffet, welcome brie ng you again two possibilities. You can relax in English, luggage trans- in one of the most famous thermal cities portation, route description in Europe and stroll down the narrow and maps, 7-day Hotline lanes of the old city, which is situated on service. a hill and can be reached by a characteristic cable-railway. Otherwise a pictur-

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Siena Home of the historical, fast and furious Palio race in Piazza del Campo. Wine The Chianti | | | 195 km | 8 Days/7 Nights hillsides produce some of Italy’s noblest wines. Florence Refined and unrushed, a magnet for Tuscany culture vultures and shopaholics alike. Florence, Siena and the Chianti

the Elsa Valley with its towers. 7. Colle Val D’Elsa–Siena (40 km, Firenze Pisa elevation up 700 m). Standard tour. 8. Siena. Departure after breakfast. Empoli Arno ROUTE PROFILE Greve - Total Length: 195/255 km Livorno Tavarnelle in Chianti - Total vertical up: 3,180/3,970 m Certaldo - Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved S. Gimignano Radda - Train connection among the overnight in Chianti MAR stays: NO TIRRENO Colle Val d’Elsa - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: NO Siena Heavy, with sloping landscapes dotted with steeper inclines, but not over- whelmingly so. The daily distance is DAY BY DAY ITINERARY d’Elsa you will cycle to the beautiful town accommodation and refreshment lo- about 40 kilometres. Though the daily 1. Siena. Arrival. of Siena, which is not only one of the cated along the road which linked routes are not too long, they can be 2. Siena–Radda in Chianti (45 km, most fascinating towns in Tuscany but is Florence to Siena and thence to Rome. strenuous, so we do recommend being elevation up 900 m). From Siena you also in a particularly beautiful position, 6. Tavarnelle–Colle Val D’Elsa (45 km, in reasonably good physical condition for start to head north towards the beautiful with lovely surroundings. elevation up 490 m). From Tavarnelle this tour. village of Radda in Chianti. The remains 8. Siena. Departure. Possibility either to you cycle to Colle di Val d’Elsa, which of its ancient walls show the historical book extra nights or to combine with lies in the heart of Tuscany, in a strategi- PARKING signicance that this town had in the following tours: Pisa–Florence (p. 55) or cally favourable position near the towns In Siena: free parking in fenced parking competition between Florence and Siena. Umbria (p. 56). of Siena and Florence. It is situated on place at approx. 1 km from the hotel, 3. Radda in Chianti–Greve (40 km, the via Francigena that connects Rome booking is compulsory. elevation up 500 m). The route brings VARIATION with the North. On the way you pass you to Greve over the rounded hills with 5. Florence–Tavarnelle (40 km, eleva- Certaldo, whose upper part has re- BY PLANE beautiful views. tion up 700 m). The village of Tavarnelle mained as it was in the Middle Ages. Siena is well connected (70–115 min.) 4. Greve–Florence (40 km, elevation up Val di Pesa has Roman origins; it is Further on you come across San Gimig- with the following airports: 600 m). Florence, capital of the region of named after the ancient taverns offering nano, which rises on a hill dominating Florence (FLR), Pisa (PSA). Tuscany, spreads on the banks of the Arno, between the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian seas, almost in the middle of PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I17 - Variation tour code I31 the Italian peninsula. Two of the many artists associated with Florence are Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo REDUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Buonarroti. 3rd person in room: SELF GUIDED TOUR BICYCLE RENT Local taxes 5. Florence. A full day to spend visiting 100 € 2/3* Hotels, b&b, 70 € Girolibero bike (approx 10-15 €). Florence. The city is often considered INCLUDED agriturismo 15 € Helmet Train transfer: the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance IN THE PRICE 698 € DBL HALF BOARD Florence–Certaldo and was long ruled by the Medici family. 7 nights hotel accommoda- + 195 € SGL 170 € (approx. 50 min., 7 € per Florence is also famous for its magni- tion, free fenced parking 6 dinners included (3-course place, breakfast person + bike). cent art and architecture. Variation meals), beverages not buffet, luggage transporta- DEPARTURES 6. Florence–Colle Val D’Elsa (40 km by 2/3* Hotels, b&b, included. tion, route descriptions Every Saturday from April train + 25 km by bike, elevation up 480 agriturismo EXTRA NIGHTS & maps, 7-days Hotline 19th to September 27th m). In the morning a short train transfer 648 € DBL In Florence service. 2014. will bring you to Certaldo. From here you + 195 € SGL will then cycle further up to Colle Val 75/130 € DBL/ SGL Special departure dates for D’Elsa. In Siena at least 6 persons! 7. Colle Val D’Elsa–Siena (40 km, 60/90 € DBL/SGL elevation up 700 m). From Colle Val

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Assisi The Basilica of Saint Francis holds pride of place with its frescos by Giotto. Lake Trasimeno Italy’s | | | 265 km | 8 Days/7 Nights largest, with history and nature in harmony. Orvieto Rising dramatically above volcanic cliffs, Umbria one of Umbria’s cultural jewels. The greenArezzo and spiritual heart of Italy

of the tour with many possible stops. to combine with tour: Tuscany Pisa– Lago Trasimeno Tevere The rst one is Spello, a walled town Florence (p. 54). Magione lying on the ridge of Monte Subasio, with ROUTE PROFILE Castiglione a large number of Roman ruins. You then del Lago Assisi cycle crossing the Umbrian countryside - Total Length: 265/290 km Perugia Chiusi towards Foligno, famous for its “Piazza - Total vertical up: 3,260 m Spello della Repubblica” and “Piazza del - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved Città della Pieve Bevagna Foligno Duomo”. A small detour leads you to - Train connection among the overnight Bevagna and afterwards you can cycle stays: day 2, 3, 4, 5 Fabro on towards Trevi getting then back to the - Possibility to shorten the itinerary the main itinerary. The stage ends in taking the train: day 2, 3, 5 Todi Spoleto, a well preserved medieval Spoleto village, nowadays a ourishing cultural The level of difculty of this itinerary is Orvieto centre of international fame. moderate. The route follows mainly the Lago di 6. Spoleto–Todi (60 km, elevation up asphalt low trafc roads and each day Bolsena 620 m). From Spoleto you cycle on you will have to climb a few little steep towards the village of Castel Ritardi and slopes. On the last two stages between from this point you leave the Umbrian Spoleto and Orvieto you will have the DAY BY DAY hills and has a splendid old town centre valley to enter beautiful hills covered challenge of some more difcult slopes. 1. Individual arrival in Orvieto. surrounded by Etruscan city walls. with oak and olive trees as far as Todi, This breathtaking city was built on the 4. Perugia–Assisi (35 km, elevation up considered one of the most beautiful PARKING summit of a butte of white tuff and 320 m). Today there is an easy trip. After medieval cities in Italy, perched on a hill In Orvieto: private garage at a cost of therefore it seems like a fortress stand- having crossed the Tiber plain the stage and overlooking the Tiber valley. approx 12 € per day close to the hotel ing on the impressive cliffs and over- leads you to Santa Maria degli Angeli at 7. Todi–Orvieto (45/55 km, elevation up (no reservation possible, to be paid looking the Umbrian countryside. The the foot of the hill of Assisi, where many 720 m). Today’s stage leads you through on-site). Gothic façade of the cathedral of Orvieto places are linked to the everyday life of small villages in the middle of the nature. is just one of the many unique monu- Saint Francis of Assisi. Afterwards you There are some hilly sections, which are BY PLANE ments covering millenniums of history. then reach the town of Assisi, which will however not too difcult to face. A You can reach Orvieto from Roma 2. Orvieto–Castiglione del Lago (30 astonish you with its art, monuments variation of the stage takes you along a Fiumicino (FCO), Roma Ciampino (CIA), km transfer + 40/50 km by bike, eleva- and the great atmosphere. The 13th bank of the Lake Corbara. On the last Perugia (PEG) and Florence (FLR). tion up 400 m). After a small trip by train century Basilica di San Francesco is the kilometres the white tuff cliff town of Orvieto is located on the railway line to Fabro and its beautiful castle over- mother church of the Franciscan Order Orvieto suddenly emerges from the which connects Rome with Florence and looking the Chiana Valley, you start and burial place of St. Francis. splendid rolling hills. is therefore easy to reach from both cycling over the rolling hills. You have 5. Assisi–Spoleto (45/50 km, elevation 8. Orvieto. Departure after breakfast. cities (approx. 90 min.). two choices: either going a bit uphill up 570 m). This is the most exciting trip Possibility either to book extra nights or through Città della Pieve (a medieval village still surrounded by fourteenth- century city walls and birthplace of the PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I19 famous painter “il Perugino”) or through an easier but longer stretch through Chiusi. The perfectly preserved medieval EXTRA NIGHTS route descriptions & maps, DEPARTURES town of Castiglione del Lago and its In Orvieto 7-days Hotline service. Every Saturday from May SELF GUIDED TOUR 60 € DBL 3rd to September 20th imposing castle surrounded by walls 2/3/4* Hotels NOT INCLUDED 80 € SGL IN THE PRICE 2014. awaits you. 685 € DBL Local taxes (approx 10 €). Special departure dates for 3. Castiglione del Lago–Perugia (40 + 175 € SGL REDUCTIONS km by bike + 20 km by train, elevation 3rd person in room: Train transfers: at least 6 persons! up 630 m). Following the northern shores 100 € Orvieto–Fabro (approx. 20 min., 4 € per person); of the lake, passing through Passignano BICYCLE RENT INCLUDED del Trasimeno, and crossing hills to 70 € Girolibero bike IN THE PRICE Magione–Perugia (approx. nally reach Magione and its castle 15 € Helmet 7 nights hotel accom- 30 min., 6 € per person). Cavalieri di Malta. From here you have a modation, breakfast buffet, short transfer by train to reach Perugia. luggage transportation, This city was built as an acropolis on the

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Trulli Spend a night in a trullo, an ancient dry-stone “hut”, at Alberobello. Matera Its historic centre dug | | | 320 km | 8 Days/7 Nights out of rock, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sea Apulia enjoys a coastline of clean waters, Apulia crags, coves and fine sands. Olive groves and crystal seas

motives done in the 17th-century with Bari the tender stone from Lecce. The old town enclosed by what is left of the MAR ADRIATICO Alberobello ancient walls, bears the impression of that exuberant period. Ostuni Gioia 8. Lecce. Departure after breakfast. del Colle Locorotondo Brindisi Matera Possibility to book extra nights.

Taranto Lecce ROUTE PROFILE - Total Length: 320 km - Total vertical up: 1,450 m Otranto - Terrain: 99% asphalt, 1% unpaved Gallipoli - Train connection among the overnight stays: day 4. MAR IONIO - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by S. Maria di Leuca taking the train: day 3.

Mostly in the lowlands, sometimes hilly. DAY BY DAY approaching the Ionian coast and your (50 km, elevation up 550 m). Today you Trafc is almost non existent in Apulia 1. Matera. Arrival. For millennia, inhabit- daily destination, Gallipoli. will cycle northwards along the Adriatic except during the high holiday season. ants of this region have carved dwellings 5. Gallipoli–Santa Maria di Leuca (50 coast to Otranto, the most eastern point The route includes very beautiful directly into ravines and gullies made of km, elevation up 50 m). Cycling further of Italy where you can visit the beautiful stretches on the coast. tuff (or tufa), a characteristic honey- along the coast you will reach Santa Cathedral and the great Aragonese colored soft stone. These houses are Maria di Leuca. The name Santa Maria Castle. BY PLANE called “Sassi” and are today a World di Leuca was given by the ancient Greek 7. Otranto–Lecce (55 km, elevation up Matera is well connected (90 min.) with Heritage site. sailors who came from the East. They 100 m). Riding along the Alimini Lakes Bari airport (BRI). 2. Matera–Alberobello (70 km, eleva- saw this place lightened by the sun and and their unique Mediterranean bush Lecce is well connected by train with the tion up 400 m). You cycle to the famous therefore called it “leukos”, meaning you will enter Lecce. Thanks to its airports of Bari and Brindisi. trulli of Alberobello and Locorotondo. white. Santa Maria di Leuca is a famous Baroque style, it has earned the nick- Trulli were generally constructed as seaside resort and a shing area. name of Florence of the South. You will dwellings or storehouses. Alberobello is 6. Santa Maria di Leuca–Otranto come to appreciate the rich sculpted situated upon two hills, once separated by a riverbed. On the eastern hill is the new town, with modern archi tectural PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I08 features. On the western hill, the trulli are lined up in an urban conglomeration, subdivided into two districts: Monti and EXTRA NIGHTS Lecce–Bari NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Aia Piccola, both National Monuments In Matera 280 € (up to. 4 persons); SELF GUIDED TOUR Local taxes from 1930, and today World Heritage 60 € DBL Lecce–Bari 3/4* Hotels (in Alberobello (approx 10-15 €). sites. 90 € SGL 340 € (5-8 persons). Trulli, B&B or residence ) Train Transfer 3. Alberobello–Ostuni (45 km, eleva- In Lecce REDUCTIONS 645 € DBL Ostuni–Lecce (approx 60 tion up 280 m). You cycle through the 60 € DBL 3rd person in room: + 180 € SGL min., 8 € per person + bike). countryside to Ostuni, which is reputed 90 € SGL 100 € TRANSFERS DEPARTURES as an architectural jewel, and is com- INCLUDED Each Saturday from March monly referred to as “the White Town” BICYCLE RENT To be con rmed when IN THE PRICE 29th to June 14th and from for its white walls and its typically 70 € Girolibero bike booking the tour 7 nights hotel August 30th to October 18th. white-painted architecture. 15 € Helmet Bari–Matera accommodation, breakfast 4. Ostuni–Lecce–Gallipoli 45 € per person buffet, welcome brieng Special departure dates can (70 km by train + 50 km by bike, eleva- (min. 2 persons); in English, luggage be organised for at least 6 tion up 70 m). A train transfer brings you Lecce–Matera transportation, route persons! to Lecce. After a few Kilometers through 70 € per person descriptions & maps, 7-days this amazing Baroque town, you go deep (min. 2 persons); Hotline service. into “salentinian countryside”, before

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Fish The freshest catch on your plate, along a coastline of fishing communities.Sleepy villages, | | | 230/195 | 8 Days/7 Nights or 7 Days/6 Nights timeless mule tracks, unrushed hospitality. Noto Jewel in the crown of Sicily’s Sicily baroque towns and villages. As for the marzipan... The land of lemons and oranges

background, the centre of Siracusa is a PARCO wonderful example of an ancient city. DELL'ETNA Catania 8. Siracusa. Departure after breakfast. Piazza Armerina MAR IONIO Possibility to book extra nights.

ROUTE PROFILE - Total length: 230/195 km Caltagirone Siracusa - Total vertical up: 1,670/1,170 mt - Terrain: 100% asphalt - Train connection among the overnight stays: NO Ragusa Noto Vittoria - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by Modica taking the train: NO Pozzallo Marzamemi MAR MEDITERRANEO The itinerary develops on low trafc side roads except for the short part entering Siracusa. Most of the stretches are on lowlands with some slightly hilly passa- DAY BY DAY most point. Before arriving to Marzam- Baroque town in Sicily. Completely ges. This tour is however suggested to 1. Caltagirone. Arrival. emi, the beautiful island of Correnti devastated in the earthquake of 1693 people with a minimum of bike practise. 2. Caltagirone–Piazza Armerina– marks where the Ionian and Mediterra- the city was rebuilt in the style of that Caltagirone (35 km, elevation up 500 nean seas meet. time with beautiful honey-coloured stone BY PLANE m). In the morning there is a transfer to 6. Marzamemi–Noto (25 km, elevation buildings with ornate churches and Caltagirone and Siracusa are well con- Piazza Armerina with its Villa Romana up 180 m). The route takes a turn to the monuments surrounding attractive nected (90 min.) by bus and train with del Casale, 5 km southwest of town. north passing through the relatively piazzas. Catania airport (CTA). First excavated in 1950, it was probably untouched and pristine natural preserve 7. Noto–Siracusa (35 km, elevation up a hunting lodge and summer home and of Vendicari, where you can relish the 60 m). Heading north, the route contin- is decorated with multicoloured mosaic beauty of the countryside. The trip ues towards Siracusa, the capital of oors that are unique throughout the continues north, ending the day at the Ancient Greece and home to Archime- Roman world in their quality and extend. city of Noto, considered to be the nest des. With the Island of Ortigia in the After the visit cycle back to Caltagirone. 3. Caltagirone–Modica (45 km by bike + 40 km transfer, elevation up 650 m). PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I28 - Variation tour code I29 From Caltagirone you cycle southward until you reach Vittoria where a transfer will bring you to Modica. The upper town TRANSFERS Piazza Armerina and from is watched over by the magnicent 18th To be con rmed when Vittoria to Modica, route SELF GUIDED TOUR BICYCLE RENT booking the tour descriptions & maps, 7-days century façade of the church of San 2/3* Hotels, B&B or 70 € Girolibero bike (min. 2 pax) Hotline service. Giorgio. agriturismo 15 € Helmet 4. Modica–Pozzallo (35 km, elevation Catania–Caltagirone NOT INCLUDED 645 € DBL EXTRA NIGHTS up 180 m). Before leaving Modica try the 50 € per person; IN THE PRICE + 180 € SGL In Caltagirone famous spicy chocolate. From Modica Siracusa–Catania Local taxes (approx 10 €). 45 € DBL you will gradually descend alongside the 60 € per person. DEPARTURES Variation 7 days/6 nights 65 € SGL caves characteristic of the Iblei moun- REDUCTIONS Each Saturday from March Arrival on Sunday In Siracusa tains to Scicli, totally rebuilt in the 3rd person in room: 29th to June 14th 2014 and in Caltagirone 50 € DBL Baroque style after the earthquake of 100 € from August 30th to October 605 € DBL 75 € SGL 1693. Continue onwards through the + 150 € SGL INCLUDED 18th 2014. marine centre of Pozzallo. IN THE PRICE Special departure dates can 5. Pozzallo–Marzamemi (55 km, 7/6 nights hotel accom- be organised for at least 6 elevation up 100 m). This day of cycling modation, breakfast buffet, persons! on an almost completely at course will luggage transportation, bring you through Portopalo di Capo transfer from Caltagirone to Passero, continental Europe’s southern-

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Avignon The splendid city of exiled Popes, fine wines and the acclaimed theatre festival. | | | 305 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Camargue Nature Park Wild white horses, black bulls and flushed flamingoes.Uzès Lofty and picturesque town Provence and Camargue with a colourful history, from the Romans to the Cathars. Roman sites and Van Gogh landscapes

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Uzès

Pont du Gard Avignon F Nîmes Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

hône t R Les-Baux-de-Provence ti e P Arles Grand Rhône Montpellier

Aigues-Mortes Réserve Naturelle de Camargue St. Maries-de-la-Mer

DAY BY DAY in 1300, the destiny of the Christian we cannot miss a stop at the famous Route mostly on low trafc roads in rural 1. Individual arrival in Arles, the city of Church. A real open air museum. Before Saint-Rémi-de-Provence and Les-Baux- and city areas. Short stretches are on diabolical “ferias”, muse of artists and the arrival, stop at the beautiful ancient de-Provence made well-known through- unpaved roads. A couple of days present poets, known for its rich ancient and village of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. out the world by Van Gogh. some short uphill with the only relevant Romanesque heritage. 6. Avignon–Châteauneuf-du-Pape– 8. Arles. ascent to Les-Baux-de-Provence (4km 2. Arles–Aigues-Mortes (65 km, Avignon (45 km, elevation up 100 m). After breakfast, end of services. of gentle ascent). elevation up 20 m). We leave the city and We will cycle towards Châteauneuf-du- we go into the delta of the Rhône, better Pape, following low-trafc roads and ROUTE PROFILE BY PLANE known as “Camargue”, where nature surrounded by vineyards. We cross the - Total Length: 305 km Arles is well connected to some airports: still prevails over civilization. river Rhône at the height of Roquemaure - Total vertical up: 980 m Marseille Provence (MRS), Lyon Saint We will cycle among cane elds, salt and we will come back in Villeneuve - Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved Exupéry (LYS), Nîmes Garons (FNI), lakes, amingos, horses and bulls. along the Rhône banks. - Train connection among the overnight Avignon Caumont (AVN). Montpellier We will stop in Saintes-Maries-de-la- 7. Avignon–Arles (60 km, elevation up stays: day 3, 7 Mediterranée (MPL). Mer, and then we will continue towards 300 m). After leaving the Palace of the - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by the medieval fortress of Aigues-Mortes. Popes, we will cycle again to close the taking the train: day 3 and 7. 3. Aigues-Mortes–Nîmes (40 km, tour returning to Arles. Along the way, elevation up 80 m). Back to civilization. Following streets with low trafc we PRICE PER PERSON Tour code F13 reach the populated centre of Nîmes; rich in art and history, it is also called the “Rome of France”, but it also re- SEASONS EXTRA NIGHTS DEPARTURES Standard season: from In Arles Every Saturday from April minds Spain with its arenas and bull- SELF GUIDED TOUR ghting. April 5th to June 28th 2014 70 € DBL 5th to June 28th and from and from September 28th 2/3/4* Hotels 105 € SGL July 26th to October 11th 4. Nîmes–Uzès (45 km, elevation up 695 € DBL 260 m). After a tour of the city, sur- to October 11th 2014. In July and August prices on 2014. High season: from June + 225 € SGL request. Special departure dates for rounded by its Roman past, you will + 45 € High season cycle up to the best preserved Roman 29th to September 27th INCLUDED at least 6 persons! aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a truly 2014. IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accom- spectacular work. You can refresh with a BICYCLE RENT modation, breakfast buffet, bath on the banks of the river Gard 70 € Girolibero bike luggage transportation, before reaching Uzès. 145 € Electro-bike welcome brieng in 5. Uzès–Avignon (50 km, elevation up 15 € Helmet 220 m). Riding through gentle hills, English, route descriptions today we will reach the capital of & maps, 7-days Hotline Provence. It was a papal city for nearly a service, hotel taxes. century and here seven popes decided,

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| | | 295 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Loire valley From Orléans to Saumur

Orléans Loire St.Dye Angers F Beaugency Blois Loire Chambord Amboise Saumur Tours Rigny- Cheverny Ussé Chaumont Villandry Chenonceaux Cher Vienne Chinon

Indre

DAY BY DAY through forests up to the town of Onzain. 160 m). The tour continues along coun- not very demanding, though sometimes 1. Orléans. Independent arrival in Here it is possible to visit the castle of try roads beyond the con uence of the there are some hilly sections. The daily Orléans, homeland of Joan of Arc. Chaumont built on the top of a hill rivers Loire and Vienne arriving in Savi- stages are not very long – always about 2. Orléans–Beaugency/St. Dyé (30/50 overlooking the river. In Amboise you gny en Vèron and the sites of Candes 50 kms – mostly in the lowlands. The km, elevation up 0 m). You pedal along cannot miss the house where Leonardo St-Martin. A few Kilometres away there itinerary is mainly on cycle paths or the Loire alternating cycle paths with da Vinci spent the last years of his life. is the castle of Montsoreau from which paved roads with a low volume of trafc. back-roads. After a visit to the Cathedral 5. Amboise–Tours (55 km, elevation up you can enjoy the landscape over the of Clery St. André you arrive at the 200 m). After the forest of Amboise you Fontevraud Abbey. At the end of the PARKING Chateau Dunois with the beautiful arrive to Chenonceaux, known as the stage you will visit Saumur, considered In Orléans: unguarded free parking medieval centre of Beaugency. A land castle of the three ladies. You continue the “Pearl of Anjou”. inside the hotel property included in the full of water and culture will lead the way along the river Cher up to the city of 8. Saumur. After breakfast end of price. to the beautiful town of St. Dyé, an Tours. You might also decide to stop for services. ancient river harbour. a visit at the castle of Nitray with its BY PLANE 3. Beaugency/St. Dyé–Blois (70/50 famous wine cellars. ROUTE PROFILE Orléans is well connected with the km, elevation up 140 m). From the huge 6. Tours–Chinon (60 km, elevation up - Total Length: 295 km following airports (120-210 min.): Paris park surrounding Chambord Castle 140 m). Pedalling between the Loire and - Total vertical up: 720 m Charle de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), today’s trip continues on to Cheverny the Cher rivers you arrive at Villandry - Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved Paris Beauvais (BVA) and Nantes (NTE). Castle through the forest of Boulogne. Castle, well known for its gardens. - Train connection among the overnight One last ride to the castle of Beauregard Following the Loire river, you’ll reach the stays: every day across the forest before you arrive in city Langeais where you can stop for a - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by Blois. break. Before arriving in Chinon you will taking the train: day 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. 4. Blois–Amboise (45 km, elevation up visit Ussé, where there is the castle of 80 m). After the visit of the city of Blois Sleeping Beauty. On this tour you cycle through the and its impressive castle, you pedal 7. Chinon–Saumur (35 km, elevation up wonderful Loire Valley. This cycle trip is

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Château de Chambord King of all the Loire castles, famously welcomed Molière. Tours The town is a UNESCO Heritage Site, with its fabled cathedral, castle and wines. Forest of Blois Immerse yourself in nature as you cycle from Blois to Amboise.

PRICE PER PERSON Tour code F03 VARIANTE

ORLÉANS–TOURS SEASONS TRANSFERS DEPARTURES Standard season: To be con rmed when Every Saturday from April | | 175 km | 6 Days BICYCLE RENT from April 26th to June booking the tour 26th to September 27th Tour code F04 6th 2014 and from August 70 € Girolibero bike Saumur–Orléans 2014. 145 € Electro-bike 30th to September 27th 65 € per person (bike Additionally every Sunday DAY BY DAY 15 € Helmet 2014. included). from June 1st to September 1. Orléans. High season: HALF BOARD Only on Saturday. 7th 2014. 2. Orléans–Beaugency/St. Dyé. from June 7th to August 150 € Cat. B REDUCTIONS Special departure dates for 3. Beaugency/St. Dyé–Blois. 29th 2014. 160 € Cat. A 3rd person in room: at least 6 persons! 4. Blois–Amboise. 6 dinners included (except 60 € Cat. B 5. Amboise–Tours. the one in Tours), bever- 80 € Cat. A 6. Tours. SELF GUIDED TOUR ages not included and to INCLUDED Cat. B: mainly 2* Hotels + be paid on site. IN THE PRICE PRICE PER PERSON one 3* Hotel EXTRA NIGHTS 7 nights hotel accom- Cat. B: 580 € DBL In Orléans modation, breakfast 445 € DBL + 175 € SGL 55 € Cat. A / B - DBL buffet, welcome brieng in + 125 € SGL + 35 € High season 85 € Cat. A / B - SGL English, luggage transpor- + 20 € High season In Saumur tation, route descriptions Cat. A: Cat. A: mainly 3* Hotels + 55 € Cat. B - DBL & maps, 7-days Hotline 510 € DBL few 2* Hotels 85 € Cat. B - SGL service, hotel taxes. + 140 € SGL 670 € DBL 65 € Cat. A - DBL + 30 € High season + 200 € SGL 100 € Cat. A - SGL BICYCLE RENT + 45 € High season + 50/125 € Girolibero bike/e-bike HALF BOARD + 110 € Half board* Cat. B + 120 € Half board* Cat. A *4 dinners (except the one in Tours), beverages not included INCLUDED 5 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome brieng in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, Hotline service, hotel taxes. DEPARTURES Every Saturday from April 26th to September 27th. Additionally every Sunday from June 1st to September 7th 2014.

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

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

brand new cycle path that will take you London London–Paris NL directly to the sea, through the wonderful DAY BY DAY GB Thames countryside dotted with farms that 1. Welcome to London. Individual arrival Coulsdon supply their excellent products to the at the hotel. Crawley East Grinstead Norman and Parisian markets. Along the 2. London–Newhaven (55 km, elevation BE second half of the route the landscape is up 280 m). You leave London by bike Brighton Polegate tinged with blue as you pass through the starting from the magnicent Westmin- Newhaven Arques estuary, overlooked by the castle ster and River Thames. Heading south of the same name and ancient sand through green parks and quite districts caves that have become a refuge for you arrive to Coulsdon where you take ENGLISH marsh birds. Here you are in Dieppe, the train (not included in the package) to CHANNEL F France’s leading seaside resort and a Brighton. You can visit the city, one of the Dieppe favourite with a great many impressionist best loved in Great Britain, and then painters. Appointment on the quayside pedal to Newhaven along the coast Forges-les-Eaux for the trip across the Channel. Overnight where you will stay overnight. Gournay-en-Bray in New haven after the crossing. 3. Newhaven–Dieppe (20 km by bike + Seine Gisors 6. Newhaven–East Grinstead (55 km, ferry, elevation up 0 m). The Channel Villarceaux elevation up 560 m). From Newhaven crossing brings you to Dieppe, France’s Théméricourt Vernon take the train to Polegate where you start leading seaside resort. The crossing Cergy Saint-Denis to pedal. Alternatively you can cycle till takes 4 hrs. In Dieppe stretch your legs Paris–London London–Paris Nanterre Paris Brighton and take the train from there with a ride along the coast or relax in the but in this case you will extend the sun on its beaches. Paris–London 350 m ). Your journey continues through mileage of 20 km. Along the Cuckoo 4. Dieppe–Forges-les-Eaux (60 km, DAY BY DAY the heart of the Vexin natural park, home Valley and the old railway line, you will elevation up 220 m). You will leave 1. Bienvenue à Paris! Those arriving in to picturesque towns, castles and farm- come to Heatheld. From here it gets behind the sea and the blue of the rst the early afternoon can make a rst visit houses. After Théméricourt and its more difcult but once in Groombridge it part of this stage as you enter the green of the Ville Lumière. spectacular Maison du Parc, you con- will be at again. Following the Forest of the French countryside, dotted with 2. Paris–Cergy (55 km, elevation up 100 tinue to Villarceaux and its eighteenth- Way you arrive to the historic local the farms that supply the markets in the m). Au revoir Paris! Starting from Notre century castle of the same name. After market town of East Grinstead. north of the country. Before you reach Dame you can either choose to leave the little town of Bray-et-Lû you will 7. East Grinstead-London (45 km, the spa town of Forges-Les-Eaux, we Paris from Canal St Denis or to follow the proceed along the river Epte to Gisors elevation up 90 m). From East Grinstead recommend you to stop in Neuchâtel to Axe Historique from the Louvre with the and the fortress marking the historical you take the Worth Way, a cycle path taste the famous local cheese. Champs Elysées through the Arc de Franco-Norman border. through a wonderful wood to Crawley: an 5. Forges-les-Eaux–Gisors (65 km, Triomphe till the new Défense district. 4. Gisors–Forges-les-Eaux (65 km, ultramodern city, this will get you ready elevation up 420 m). We are in the Pays After Nanterre, you will come to the elevation up 515 m ). Departure from for The Old Smoke itself, London. From de Bray in Normandy, which boasts a islands and parks so dear to the impres- Gisors for Gournay-en-Bray and then on here you take the train to Couldson, very high quality of local avours and sionists, once a choice for Sunday trips, to Forges-les-Eaux, the renowned spa where you start cycling through green products: butter, cheese, apples, pears, somewhere to spend the afternoon en resort. Welcome to Normandy, or rather parks and quite districts to the heart of honey, legumes and rst class meat. plen air on a boat between the Seine and to Gourmandie, land of unique avours! London. Your nish line for the week will This is why the French use a play on the Marne. Welcome to the Promenade 5. Forges-les-Eaux–Newhaven (60 km be Westminster. words and say: “Welcome to Gourmand- Bleue in Paris! by bike + ferry, elevation up 60 m). 8. London. After breakfast, goodbye and ie”! Then you will follow the valley of the 3. Cergy–Gisors (65 km, elevation up From Forges-les-Eaux you follow the au revoir! river Epte to reach Gisors and its castle,

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A Tale of Two Cities Two of Europe’s most alluring capitals await your discovery. Brand new cycle route Inaugurated for the 2012 Olympics, a cyclist’s dream. Normandy Enjoy the finest cuisine of the region also known as “Gourmandie”.

which marks the ancient Franco-Norman The route follows the Avenue Verte along PRICE PER PERSON border. dedicated cycle paths, road shoulder 6. Gisors–Cergy (65 km, elevation up cycle lanes and quiet country roads. Paris-London Self guided tour code F01 - Guided tour code F01G 320 m). You follow the river Epte to The route is on the level when it follows London-Paris Bray-et-Lû where you enter the Vexin the main rivers, it then becomes slightly Self guided tour code F02 - Guided tour code F02G Français region and the natural park of more difcult in the countryside areas, the same name, a chalky plain that especially in England (for direction Paris includes many communes in the Oise to London). Direction London to Paris is INCLUDED IN THE PRICE valley. In Théméricourt we recommend a the easier of the two options. 7 nights hotel accommodation, SELF GUIDED TOUR breakfast buffet, welcome brieng in visit to the house at the park entrance, 2/3/4* Hotels (in London: BY PLANE English, luggage transportation, route where you can also visit the museum 4* centrally located hotel!) dedicated to the natural park. Both Paris and London are well served description and maps, ferry cruise 679 € DBL Dieppe-Newhaven (or Newhaven- 7. Cergy–Paris (55 km, elevation up 145 by many airports. Paris: Charles de + 370 € SGL m). You leave behind the Oise river to Gaulle (CDG), Orly (PRY), Beauvais (BVA). Dieppe), support van in the area, nally meet up with the Seine and its London: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick 7-days Hotline service. park, so dear to the impressionists. This (LGW), Stansted (STN). Extra services for guided tour: GUIDED TOUR guide on bike, 5 dinners (beverages river will guide you to the Canal Saint- 2/3/4* Hotels (in London: not included). Denis and the heart of Paris. If you prefer 4* centrally located hotel!) MAXI ASSISTANCE to spend more time visiting the capital, 985 € DBL NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE you can always get a train or the under- For this tour, Girolibero offers you + 370 € SGL All the train transfers. ground to reach the centre more quickly. MAXI assistance for both group and DEPARTURES 8. Paris. After breakfast, end of services individual packages. This means that Self guided tour and... au revoir! in addition to a guide for the group BICYCLE RENT From Paris: 17.05, 31.05, 14.06, tour, individual clients can count on the 80 € Girolibero bike 28.06, 12.07, 26.07, 9.08, 23.08, ROUTE PROFILE support of a vehicle travelling nearby. 145 € Electro-bike 6.09, 20.09.2014. Paris–London Thanks to this service, individual 15 € Helmet From London: 24.05, 7.06, 21.06, - Total Length: 340 km clients can enjoy a worry-free cycling 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, 16.08, 30.08, - Total vertical up: 1,675 m holiday. EXTRA NIGHTS 13.09.2014. - Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved In Paris/in London: on request - Train connection among the overnight REDUCTIONS Guided tour stays: day 2, 3, 6 and 7 ONLY WITH GIROLIBERO 3rd person in room: From Paris: 12.07, 26.07, 9.08.2014 - Possibility to shorten the itinerary by In London you’ll stay in a 4* centrally 140 € From London: 5.07, 19.07, 2.08, taking the train: day 2, 6 and 7 located Hotel! 16.08.2014.

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

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 63 64 girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 6 Tours in this brochure ROADBIKE more on the website!

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

ITALY

Bolzano–Venice . . . . . p. 66 | 540 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Lake Garda ...... p. 69 Self guided tour from 655 € | 390 Km | 7 Days/6 Nights Self guided tour from 510 € Dolomites and Stelvio Pass ...... p. 67 Piedmont ...... p. 70 | 525 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights | 510 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 750 € Self guided tour from 655 €

Veneto ...... p. 68 Tuscany ...... p. 71 | 620 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights | 735 Km | 8 Days/7 Nights Self guided tour from 655 € Self guided tour from 718 €

6565 Italy

Sella Ronda and its 4 Passes: a 60 km climb that has written the history of cycling. | | | 540 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Venice Forget your bike and directions: Venice is made for walking and losing yourself! The Prosecco route Bolzano–Venice Pedal through the vineyards to the gates of Treviso. From legendary Dolomites to Adriatic Sea

Brunico Pass Mestre Treviso Cortina Belluno Brunico Venezia Corvara Dobbiaco Bolzano Sellaronda

P. Gardena Corvara Valdobbiadene Cortina D’Ampezzo 2100 m P. Pordoi Passo Giau BOLZANO/BOZEN P. Campolongo 1400 m

700 m 0 m Adige Belluno Trento Prosecco vineyards. follow the Sile River to Casale. In the end, Piave * Ferri says: Today’s stretch takes you Venice awaits you! You stay overnight in Valdobbiadene up to Passo San Boldo and Pianezze, two Mestre, but can book to stay in Venice, historic ascents for the professionals subject to a surcharge. Brenta Treviso who train in these hills. I recommend a Ferri says: Enjoy your day in Venice, Lago Sile * di Garda 34–25 gear ratio for the Pianezze pass! a city that is one of its kind in the world! Adige Mestre MARE Recharging your batteries with a good But if you really must pedal, there are Venezia ADRIATICO glass of wine is a must. always the Asolo and Castelfranco hills Chioggia 6. Valdobbiadene–Treviso (70 km, and back. + 1,000 m, 3.30 h). Up Montello on one 8. Mestre. After breakfast, end of ser- of the many roads that lead to the top. vices. DAY BY DAY 2012 Giro d’Italia, here ridden in the After the descent you come to Treviso. 1. Arrival in Bolzano. opposite direction… which does not On the way you go through Maser, where PARKING 2. Bolzano–Brunico–Dobbiaco make it any easier, in fact this slope of you can admire Villa Barbaro, a jewel of In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no (120 km, + 2,200 m, 6.30 h). Private Passo Duran will have your lungs and architecture by Andrea Palladio. reservation possible, to be paid on-site). transfer to Corvara, in the Sella Ronda legs screaming! * Ferri says: We have over 33 different park. Here 4 passes await you, ascents 5. Belluno–Valdobbiadene (70 km, asphalted ascents to choose: the gradi- BY PLANE that have written the history of cycling. + 1,000 m, 4 h). You pedal over slightly ents often reach 10–12%, and even 18% Bolzano is well connected (90–120 min.) Variant (80 km) without Sella Ronda. hilly terrain that recalls the Tuscan at times. with the following airports: Verona * Ferri says: The colour of the rock and landscape and then arrive in Valdobbia- 7. Treviso–Mestre–Venice (50 km, (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). the scents in the air make this a mystical dene, surrounded by the famous + 300 m, 2.30 h). You leave Treviso and place. The last part includes a lot of downhill route, so don’t be put off by the kilometres. PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I14R 3. Dobbiaco–Cortina (100 km, + 2,500 m, 6 h). You follow the cycle path along the Landro valley, at the foot of the three SEASONS TRANSFERS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE peaks of Lavaredo. A slightly uphill Standard season: from To be con rmed when BICYCLE RENT Local hotel taxes (approx. stretch, then down to Cortina d’Ampezzo May 4th to June 28th 2014 booking the tour and from September 8th to 195 € High-end road bike Mestre/Venice–Bolzano 10-15 €). and from here up again towards Passo 15 € Helmet Falzarego. The nal ascent leads you to September 28th 2014. 60 € per person (bike DEPARTURES Majesty the Giau. High Season: from June EXTRA NIGHTS included). Available on Every Sunday from May 4th Variant (70 km) without Passo Falzarego 29th to July 20th 2014 In Bozen Saturday and Sunday (other to July 20th 2014 and from * Ferri says: Passo Giau, is the unques- and from August 24th to 65 €/85 € DBL/SGL days only on request). August 24th to September tioned queen of the Dolomites. You really September 7th 2014. In Mestre INCLUDED 28th 2014. need 34–29… trust me! 65 €/85 € DBL/SGL IN THE PRICE Special departure dates for 4. Cortina–Belluno (100 km, + 2,500 In Venice 7 nights hotel accommoda- at least 6 persons! SELF GUIDED TOUR m, 5.30 h). Up again to Passo Giau: From 90 € DBL tion, breakfast buffet, lug- 3/4* Hotels from here, an extremely fast downhill From 150 € SGL gage transportation, private 655 € DBL ride towards Selva di Cadore, then up to Night in Venice instead of transfer Bolzano-Corvara/ + 180 € SGL Forcella Staulanza pass and Passo Mestre (luggage delivered Brunico, GPS tracks for + 45 € High season Duran. Today’s stage nishes in Belluno to the Hotel) the stages, 7-days Hotline with a 40 km downhill run. From 90/150 € DBL/SGL service. Variant (80 km) without Staulanza pass. * Ferri says: A stage included in the

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Legendary Passes of the Dolomites Pordoi, Sella, Gardena, Campolongo, Giau, Fedaia: exhausting but exhilarating. | | | 525 km | 8 Days/7 Nights Stelvio Area the celebrated Gavia and Mortirolo Passes – plus, legendary and commandingly beautiful: “His Majesty” Stelvio. Dolomites and Stelvio Pass Bolzano Italy’s northern outpost town immersed in the Dolomites. Passes and Peaks of the Alps Bormio Bormio P. Giau P. Sella Merano Bolzano Bolzano P. Gavia P. Pordoi P. Gardena P. Mortirolo P. Falzarego

A Campolongo 2300 m CH I 1600 m Merano Adige 900 m P. Gardena Val Badia P. Falzarego 200 m P. Sella P. Campolongo Bormio 6. Bormio–Gavia Pass–Bormio (80 km, PARKING Bolzano P. Pordoi Passo Giau + 1,930 m, 4 h). The day is dedicated to In Bolzano: from 60 € per week (no P. Gavia the ascent of the historic and fabulous reservation possible, to be paid on-site). Adige Gavia, where over the years countless P. Mortirolo champions have challenged one another BY PLANE in the Giro d’Italia. Your day has come! Bolzano is very well connected to the Adda * Ferri says: “We’ve got the Gavia following airports (90–120 min): Verona today,” you keep telling yourself on the (VRN), Innsbruck (INN). day, doing the Giro d’Italia: it’s a wonderful, long long climb, though not impos- DAY BY DAY elevation faced yesterday. sibly strenuous. 1. Arrival in Bolzano. 5. Merano–Bormio (97 km , + 2,937 m, 7. Bormio–Mortirolo–Bormio (80 km, 2. Bolzano–Badia Valley (87 km, 6 h). Our cycle path out of Merano rises + 1,800 m, 5 h). Ready to ascend the + 2,790 m, 5 h). You leave Bolzano and gently to Prato dello Stelvio and is merely Mortirolo Pass? – A 12-km monumental reach the Gardena Valley and the village the overture of what lies ahead: the challenge and 1,300 m of elevation. This of Ortisei, a renowned wood carving legendary 48 bends that punctuate the is the historic climb that connects Valtel- centre. You then start your climb to the 25.4 km and 1,840 m of elevation de- lina with the Camonica Valley. passes of Selva, Pordoi and Campolongo. manded by the Stelvio Pass. Long and * Ferri says: The rst few km are scary: Then the fast downhill into the Badia chilly descent into Bormio. 42 mins is the record time set by Ivan Valley. * Ferri says: Take it easy out of Merano Gotti in 1999, when he won the Giro * Ferri says: The reworks start with a so as to arrive at Prato dello Stelvio in d’Italia. What will yours be? bang and in the space of a few hours good shape. Stop to refuel and for a bite 8. Bormio. Departure after breakfast. you’re pedalling in the Sellaronda amphi- before the Big One. theatre: colours, scents, a sense of elation and freedom. 3. In Badia Valley (82 km, + 2,460 m, PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I15R 6 h). From the idyllic Badia Valley to the easy Campolongo Pass, before tackling “His Majesty” the Giau Pass. SEASONS EXTRA NIGHTS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Ferri says: Pace yourself as best as Standard season: from In Bolzano * SELF GUIDED TOUR Local hotel taxes (approx. you can for the rst part of the Giau Pass: June 1st to June 30th 2014 65 € DBL and from September 1st to 3/4* Hotels 85 € SGL 10-15 €). it’s tough with some stretches at 12%, 750 € DBL September 29th 2014. INCLUDED DEPARTURES and the last 3 km will be long and hard. + 150 € SGL High Season: from July 1st IN THE PRICE Every Sunday from June 1st But once you reach the peak, you’re + 40 € High season rewarded with one of the nest views to August 30th 2014. 7 nights hotel accom- to September 29th 2014. anywhere on the planet. modation, breakfast buffet, Special departure dates for 7 dinners (beverages not at least 6 persons! 4. Badia Valley–Merano (98 km, BICYCLE RENT included), luggage transpor- + 1,360 m, 5 h). You climb to the Valgar- 200 € High-end road bike tation, GPS-Tracks, wellness dena Pass to complete your loop of the 15 € Helmet Sellaronda. The road carries on up area and laundry service towards the Alpe di Siusi and then dips in Bormio, 7-days Hotline down into Bolzano and Merano. service. * Ferri says: A relatively less challenging day to catch your breath. Just two climbs, both enjoyable, with half the

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Mount Grappa Also featured in this year’s Giro d’Italia, with that historic 27 km climb to 1800 m. Prosecco Paradise | | | 620 km | 8 Days/7 Nights By bike through the vineyards of the celebrated sparkling wine. Palladio’s architecture The Renaissance master’s fi nest Veneto designs, in and around Vicenza. Cycling in the road bike land

Conegliano Asiago Treviso

Asiago Vicenza Vicenza Montello

Adige Colli Berici Colli Euganei Abano Terme Monte Grappa Bassano del Grappa Brenta 1500 m Lido di Venezia Marostica Treviso 1000 m

500 m Brenta Lago di VICENZA Garda 0 m COLLI Verona BERICI Mestre Venezia Peschiera Padova tourist resort and come to Cavallino 7. Abano Terme–Vicenza (100 km, Laguna Treporti, where you take a ferry that + 1,300 m, 4 h). Cycle to Ponte di Bar- Abano Terme stops in Venice, Lido island, Pellestrina barano, where the road starts to rise and Teolo MAR ADRIATICO and Chioggia. fall a dozen times, through the Colli Adige Arquà Petrarca * Ferri says: An easy stage, on the at, Berici. Down towards Costozza and after Chioggia dominated by the scent of the sea. a few km on the level, as you come into 6. Chioggia–Abano Terme (100 km, + Vicenza, you can admire the marvellous DAY BY DAY 4 h). A tough circular route with continual 1,000 m, 4 h). The stage starts with 40 Villa La Rotonda by Palladio. 1. Arrival in Vicenza, a city of art and uphill–downhill stretches through the km of at cycling along the rivers to * Ferri says: Not much traf c and a industry, it is where dozens of world- Montello and Prosecco hills. A visit to Monselice. From here you come to the route through green countryside, short famous companies are headquartered: Vittorio Veneto before heading back to Euganei Hills regional park, where you yet challenging ascents before the nal Fizik, Selle Italia, Wilier, Campagnolo and Treviso. nd continual ascents and descents and descent… arms up towards the sky and many others. * Ferri says: Today the scenery is still delightful little towns such as Arquà dream of winning! 2. Vicenza–Bassano del Grappa breathtaking here, through vineyards and Petrarca. This stage ends in Abano 8. Vicenza. Departure. (120 km, + 1,500 m, 5 h). From Vicenza woods, along roads where many Treviso Terme, a renowned spa resort. you cycle north towards Marostica: you based professional cyclists train. * Ferri says: Be careful of the wind BY PLANE pedal through the square where they play 5. Treviso–Venice–Chioggia (80 km). during the rst part and pace your Vicenza/Mestre are well connected with chess and up along the castle walls, A at route along the canals of the Sile pedalling, as the last part is winding with the following airports: Venice (VCE), heading for the high plain of Asiago. River that head seawards. You cycle some of the ascents arduous and up to Verona (VRN), Treviso (TPS), Bergamo (15 km at 6% that leaves you breathless, through Jesolo, a renowned summer 3–4 km long. (BGY-150 min). but with splendid scenery). The Vals- ugana cycle path takes you to Bassano. Ferri says: The worst part is the * PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I03R ascent up to Asiago. I have cycled it hundreds of times with Pozzato, Rebellin, Ballan… you are highly likely to meet SEASONS Night in Venice instead of NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE them on these roads. Value season: from March Mestre (luggage delivered 29th to April 30th 2014 and BICYCLE RENT to the Hotel) Local taxes (approx 10-15 €). 3. Bassano del Grappa–Treviso 195 € High-end road bike (120 km, + 2,500 m, 6 h). Ascent to from September 27th to From 90/150 € DBL/SGL DEPARTURES October 25th 2014. 15 € Helmet Monte Grappa, where epic battles were REDUCTIONS Every Saturday and Sunday fought in the World War I, but also in the Middle season: from May HALF BOARD 3rd/4th person in room: from March 29th to October Giro d’Italia and in the historic race that 1st to June 25th 2014 and 170 € 6 dinners included 130 € 25th 2014. from August 30th to Septem- (3-course meals), beverages has been run here since 1930: 27 km, a INCLUDED Special departure dates for ber 26th 2014. not included. difference of 1,500 metres in altitude, IN THE PRICE at least 6 persons! High season: from June with a central apparently at stretch of EXTRA NIGHTS 7 nights hotel accom- 26th to August 29th 2014. 3.5 km. Long descent down to Valdob- In Vicenza/Treviso modation, breakfast buffet, biadene in the province of Treviso, From 55 €/85 € DBL/SGL luggage transportation, GPS through the Prosecco wine hills. In Mestre tracks for the stages, 7-days SELF GUIDED TOUR Variant (80 km). Without the Grappa 65 €/85 € DBL/SGL Hotline service, 12-hours- 3/4* Hotels ascent. In Venice ticket for Venice public 655 € DBL Ferri says: A wonderful route if the From 90/150 € DBL/SGL transport (bike not included, * + 198 € SGL weather is good. In bad weather, come approx. 4 €). + 35 € Middle season down from Monte Grappa via Campo- + 55 € High season solagna–Campo Croce–Crespano. 4. Treviso–Treviso (100 km, + 1,300 m,

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Cima Veleno (“Poison Peak”) – backbreaking but views to die for: Lake Garda, olive groves and the blue yonder above. | | | 390 km | 7 Tage/6 Nächte Lake Garda Among the most elegant holiday destinations in northern Italy. Temperate climate Naturally Lake Garda beautiful, ideal for cycling and celebrated for its wines. Peschiera roundtour

Lago Salò Negrar di Iseo Verona Solferino Sirmione Bardolino Peschiera Desenzano Cima Veleno 1200 m Cima Veleno Torri del Benaco Torri del 800 m Salò Benaco Adige 400 m Lago Garda di Garda Negrar 0 m Bardolino Sirmione Desenzano of about 3–4 km each. An excellent expert (and lovers of very hard work). Verona PESCHIERA route for the scenery and to work your You’ll need a 34–29 gear ratio… other- DEL GARDA legs. A stop to relax your muscles at the wise you’ll have to get off and walk! Solferino Adige Colà spa is a must. The ascent up to Ferrara di Monte Baldo 6. Peschiera del Garda–Cima Veleno is also lovely, offering a panorama very Mincio (90 km, + 1,390 m, 5 h). We follow the reminiscent of the Swiss mountains, lakeside to Assenza di Brenzone, where with cows and large expanses of green the new Italian cyclist’s mecca starts: meadows. Cima Veleno, an 8 km ascent with a 7. Peschiera del Garda. After breakfast, DAY BY DAY keeping you company the whole way. gradient that reaches 20% at certain end of services. 1. Individual arrival in Peschiera del * Ferri says: A very pleasant route points. Down towards Garda, this beauti- Garda, a treasure trove of art and along the lakeside with lovely scenery ful town on the lake and then the same BY PLANE architecture surrounded by water. and the climb up to Castion Veronese is route back to Peschiera. Peschiera is very well connected to the 2. Round tour (70 km, + 320 m, 3 h). really easy: enjoy the view! If you don’t want to tackle such a dif- following airports: Verona (VRN), Venice First day on the saddle through orchards 5. Peschiera del Garda–Negrar cult climb you can go to Caprino Ve- (VCE). and vineyards of Lugana, the still white (70 km, + 680 m, 4 h). The road follows ronese and pedal up from Ferrara di local wine. You come to Solferino, site of the Valpolicella valley, famous for its Monte Baldo: here the view over Lake the famous battle that marked the end of good wine and numerous wineries. After Garda is magni cent. the Second War of Independence. having tackled the great ascent that Another even easier alternative: cycle to * Ferri says: This stage in the hills leads to Negrar, you can stop at the Colà Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet and surrounded by the scents of the country- spa and recharge your batteries with a then enjoy a day’s retail therapy and side is easy and pleasant, on secondary swim. culture. roads with very little difference in * Ferri says: A very uphill–downhill * Ferri says: The Cima Veleno ascent is altitude. Take it easy, today is just a route with ve medium dif cult ascents pretty awesome, only for the really warm-up stage! 3. Peschiera del Garda–Desenzano del Garda–Salò (90 km, + 680 m, 4 h). PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I24R Today’s stretch takes you to Salò and continues with a round trip on gently rolling moraine hills. For those feeling SEASONS EXTRA NIGHTS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE under par, this town offers plenty of Standard season: from In Peschiera SELF GUIDED TOUR Local taxes (approx 8 €). chances to relax on the lakeside. April 12th to May 24th 2014 55 € DBL 3* Hotel (Hotel Puccini or DEPARTURES Ferri says: There’s a ne ascent that and from September 13th to 85 € SGL * equivalent if not available) Every day from April 12th to takes you from Desenzano to Polpenazze September 27th 2014. In Verona 510 € DBL September 27th 2014. del Garda: you can put your all into it High season: from May 65 € DBL 25th to September 12th + 198 € SGL 85 € SGL because it’s followed by a long easy + 80 € High season descent into Salò. 2014. INCLUDED 4. Peschiera del Garda–Torri del IN THE PRICE Benaco (70 km, + 600 m, 3 h). 6 nights hotel accommoda- BICYCLE RENT The road runs along the lakeside and tion, buffet breakfast, 195 € High-end road bike GPS tracks for the stages, rises northwards through the towns of 15 € Helmet Lazise, Bardolino and Garda. When you 7-day service hotline. get to Torri del Benaco, you climb to Castion Veronese, with hills of olive trees

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Fausto Coppi Castellania ist das Heimatdorf des großen Radprofi s, der hier inmitten von Weinbergen und Hügeln trainierte. Die Trüffel des Piemont | | | 510 km | 8 Days/7 Nights gehören zu den wertvollsten in der Welt und werden in vielen Gerichten der regionalen Küche benutzt. Langhe Eine für ihre Weine bekannte Region, wo Piedmont exzellente Weine wie der Barolo, der Barbera und der Dolcetto angebaut werden. The ascents of Fausto Coppi Asti Alba Po Ticino Acqui Casale Monferrato Castellani Revigliasco Alessandria Torino Po

700 m Casale Monferrato

400 m

Tanaro ALESSANDRIA Asti 100 m Bormida Castellania * Ferri says: The ascent up Superga is a PARKING Alba great classic, included every year in the In Alessandria: private garage at a cost Giro del Piemonte. of approx 12 € per day close to the hotel Acqui Terme 6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (90 km, (no reservation possible, to be paid + 1,500 m, 4.30 h). You pedal north- on-site). wards up to Monferrato, along a winding route with continual variations in steep- BY PLANE DAY BY DAY 4. Alba–Asti (90 km, + 1,400 m, 4,30 ness and steep climbs that at times are Alessandria is well connected (60–180 1. Individual arrival in Alessandria, h). Quiet roads through vineyards and very similar to the Mur de huy ascent in min.) with the following airports: Torino a city divided by the Tanaro River. Piazza hazelnut groves in the heart of Monfer- the classic Flèche Wallonne. (TRN), Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) and della Libertà and Piazza Duomo, with its rato. Today we cross the Tanaro natural * Ferri says: Take care on the steep Milano Malpensa (MXP). magni cent neoclassic cathedral, are park and the Sarmassa natural reserve. climbs, a 34–25 gear ratio may often be truly worth a visit. The stage ends in Asti with its monu- useful. Stop every now and again to enjoy 2. Alessandria–Castellania–Acqui ments and splendid Gothic cathedral. the view and the silence. Terme (90 km, + 660 m, 3.30 h). * Ferri says: Like yesterday, the route 7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria The tour starts in Alessandria and takes winds through hills marked by the hard (50 km, + 500 m, 3 h). Our tour contin- you to Castellania, Fausto Coppi’s birth- work of man: they truly spent all their ues through green hills and farmed land, place. You then take the road that leads energy in these vineyards and across the through small towns on the right-hand to Novi Ligure with easy ascents up and slopes of hazelnut trees. You have to do bank of the Po River and comes to an end over the hills of vineyards that produce the same, using your legs, heart and in Alessandria. the renowned Barbera and Dolcetto willpower. * Ferri says: A short nal stage so that d’Acqui wines. In the evening you can 5. Asti round tour (90 km, + 1,000 m, you can once again enjoy the peace and relax in the warm spa waters of Acqui 4 h). A cycle through the Monferrato the marvellous scenery. Stop to lunch in Terme. vineyards to reach Turin. The end stretch one of the many wineries on the way and * Ferri says: A visit to Fausto Coppi’s is a climb up the famous Superga hill, 7 pop a good Italian spumante to toast house and birthplace is very moving and, km at 8%, followed by a lovely descent yourselves and your holiday. once back on the saddle, you will feel you down into Turin, a must-visit city! Back to 8. Alessandria. After breakfast, end of are pedalling at his side. Asti by train. services. 3. Acqui Terme–Alba (100 km, + 2,100 m, 5 h). Three climbs await you on your journey through the Langhe, with PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I05R gradients of up to 12%. One of these is the Gino Bartali ascent with its many holy sanctuaries surrounded by Dolcetto INCLUDED Train transfer to Torino (ap- IN THE PRICE vineyards. prox. 45 min., 7 € per person SELF GUIDED TOUR BICYCLE RENT 7 nights hotel accom- Ferri says: A demanding route with + bike). * 3/4* Hotels 195 € High-end road bike modation, breakfast buffet, continuous medium-length ascents, 5–7 DEPARTURES 655 € DBL 15 € Helmet luggage transportation, GPS km. Save some of your energy for the Every Saturday from April + 175 € SGL tracks for the stages, 7-days last dif culty of the day, the Gino Bartali EXTRA NIGHTS 19th to October 4th 2014. Hotline service. ascent… if you have dared too much and In Alessandria Special departure dates for get here tired, you too will be forced to 55 € DBL NOT INCLUDED at least 6 persons! say: “l’è tutto sbagliato, è tutto da rifare” 75 € SGL IN THE PRICE (it’s all wrong, do it again), Local taxes (approx 10 €). Bartali’s historic motto.

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Eroica race route, the classic unmade road that leads to Siena. Wine The Chianti hillsides | | | 735 km | 8 Days/7 Nights produce some of Italy’s noblest wines. Siena Home of the historical, fast and furious Palio race Tuscany in Piazza del Campo. The heroes’ hills Pisa Pisa

Alpi Apuane Vinci Siena Lucca Firenze Volterra Montalcino Alpi Apuane

Lucca 1200 m Montepulciano Firenze Vinci 800 m PISA Arno 400 m

0 m 5. Florence–Siena along the Eroica Variant (70 km). Volterra MAR (90 km, + 1,700 m, 5 h). Today you’ll * Ferri says: My favourite stage: here TIRRENO Siena cycle on the “Eroica” roads that are at we combine (pleasant) effort with unique times not asphalted, through wonderful views, great wines and local culinary Lago Trasimeno hilly countryside. Ascents are tough, due specialities. Stopping to eat in Montalcino Montepulciano both to their gradient and the dif culty of or Pienza is almost obligatory! Montalcino cycling on unmade roads. Arrival is in 7. Siena–Pisa (113 km, + 770 m, Piazza del Campo in Siena. 4.30 h). Along the provincial road you DAY BY DAY tunnels and in the rain, as the road Variant (70 km). Without the Eroica road. come to Colle Val d’Elsa and then head 1. Individual arrival in Pisa. becomes very slippery. The valley that * Ferri says: On unmade roads you need towards San Gimignano, the marvellous 2. Pisa–Lucca (70 km, + 960 m, 4 h). takes you from Castelnuovo Garfagnana excellent cycling skills and above all city dominated by its fourteen medieval You leave Pisa, heading for San Giuliano to Lucca is quick, but a bit busy towards spare tyres – punctures are par for the towers. The stage continues along Terme, cycle around Monte Serra and the end. The short route, on the other course here! Careful with descents on secondary roads, bringing you to back to tackle the ascent up the Buti side, the hand, is very pleasant if you love the sea non-asphalt stretches too. Despite its Pisa, where the round trip and your historic testing bench for professional and... the good life! dif culties, the Eroica roads are the ones holiday nally come to an end. cyclists such as Bartoli, Ulrich and 4. Lucca–Florence (100 km, + 610 m, I recommend: the silence, the absence of * Ferri says: A demanding route, uphill Contador. The road climbs evenly and 4 h). From Lucca the road seesaws up traf c, the feeling you get of pedalling in to the 60 km mark, then much easier there is a unique view from the top: the and down until a long descent takes you 1930 are emotions not to be missed. until Pisa. This is the last stage, very Tyrrhenian Sea with the islands of Elba down to Vinci, Leonardo’s birthplace, 6. Siena–Montalcino–Pienza–Siena beautiful and peaceful, excellent for mak- and Giglio. You then follow a slightly where you can visit the museum dedi- (120 km, + 1,200 m, 5 h). A route that ing memories of Tuscany. winding route towards Lake Massaciuc- cated to this genius. follows the Cassia road south to the 8. Pisa. After breakfast, end of services. coli, ending this stage in wonderful Afterwards you tackle the Vittolini ascent wonderful town of Montalcino. After Lucca. that takes you to Florence. about 40 km, the ascent that takes you PARKING * Ferri says: The view from the top is * Ferri says: This is a very pleasant up to the town is intimidating, but it In Pisa: free parking place at the rst amazing and while pedalling up the Buti route, the ascents are pretty easy and opens up into the most fabulous pano- hotel, for the whole duration of the tour. side you come across a whole load of it’s worth forgetting times and enjoying a rama and once at the top your reward is cyclists with one eye on their stopwatch. slice of history (must visit is Vinci and the a glass of good wine, bread and salami. BY PLANE Enjoy this legendary ascent and chal- home of Leonardo). This evening, Floren- The rest will get you ready to tackle the You can y to Pisa airport (PSA) with lenge the great names, remembering tine steak for dinner with a glass of good next uphill–downhill stretch that takes various low cost companies. however that today is only your rst day. Chianti: tomorrow you’ll need your legs! you to Pienza and then back to Siena. Make frequent use of gear ratio 34–26. 3. Lucca–Apuan Alps–Lucca (130 km, + 1,300 m, 6 h). You leave Lucca for PRICE PER PERSON Tour code I17R Camaiore, climbing gently to reach Massa Carrara. An ascent takes you into the heart of the Apuan Alps, a new peak INCLUDED NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE IN THE PRICE of white rock offering a spectacular view SELF GUIDED TOUR BICYCLE RENT 7 nights hotel accom- Local taxes (approx 10-15 €). over the Tyrrhenian Sea. You then cycle 2/3* Hotels, b&b, 195 € High-end road bike modation, breakfast buffet, down, crossing the valley which takes DEPARTURES agriturismo 15 € Helmet luggage transportation, GPS you back to Lucca. Every Saturday from April 718 € DBL tracks for the stages, 7-days Variant (70 km) via Viareggio and Forte EXTRA NIGHTS 19th to September 27th + 195 € SGL Hotline service. dei Marmi. In Pisa 2014. * Ferri says: The stage that goes up to 60 € DBL Special departure dates for the Apuan Alps is wonderful, with fabu- 90 € SGL at least 6 persons! lous scenery as you rise; take care in the

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1. INTRODUCTION: (Art.89 of Consumer’s Code); programme as printed in the catalogue accepted by the consumer. NOTION OF TOURIST PACKAGE - exchange rate used in the case of technical brief or on the date printed in In the above cases the consumer has Considering that: a) the operator and currency adjustments, days or value. the above mentioned adjustments. the right to alternatively: vendor of tourist packages, to whom 4. BOOKINGS 7. ALTERATIONS OR - receive an alternative tourist package, the consumer makes a request, must Reservation requests must be made on CANCELLATION OF A TOURIST without paying a supplement and with be in possession of the administrative the appropriate contractual form filled PACKAGE BEFORE DEPARTURE the reimbursement of excess cost, in authorisation in order to carry out their in entirely and signed by the client. Before the departure the operator or the case that the second package has activity. b) the consumer has the right Acceptance for the booking will be vendor who is forced to make signifi- an inferior value to the first; to receive a copy of the tourist package complete, with subsequent conclusion cant alterations to one or more ele- - reimbursement of only the sums sale contract (under article 85 of the of the contract, only once the operator ments of the contract must give imme- already paid. Such reimbursement must Consumer’s Code) an essential docu- has sent confirmation, even by telemat- diate notification in writing to the con- be carried out within seven working ment to get access to the National ic means, to the client. Indications sumer indicating the type of alteration days from the receipt of the reimburse- Guarantee Fund. regarding the package that are not con- and the consequent variation in price. ment request. The definition of tourist package (article tained in the contractual documents, If the alteration proposal is not accept- The consumer must communicate his 84 Consumer’s Code) is as follows: brochures or in other written means, will ed, the consumer can reserve the right decision (of acceptance of the altera- tourist packages have as their subject be provided in good time before the to reclaim the amount already paid or tion or of withdrawal) within and not matter travel, holidays and “all inclu- start of the journey by the operator in receive an alternative tourist package in after two working days from the sive” tours, which result from the pre- accordance with his obligations under accordance with commas 2 and 3 of moment he receives notice of the arranged combination of at least two of art, 87 comma 2 of the Consumer’s article 8. The consumer maintains the increase or alteration. If no communica- the following components, which must Code. above rights also when cancellation is tion is made within these limits, the pro- be sold or offered for sale at an inclu- 5. PAYMENT due to an insufficient number of partici- posal formulated by the operator is to sive price and cover a period of more A deposit of 25% of the price of the pants required as stated in the Cata- be considered as accepted. The con- than twenty-four hours or include at tourist package is to be paid at the logue or in the separate programme, or sumer who withdraws from the contract least one overnight accommodation: moment of booking. The balance must due to force majeure and accidental before departure for reasons other than (a) transport; (b) accommodation; be paid not later than 30 days preced- cause, regarding the tourist package those listed in comma 1 above will be (c) other tourist services not ancillary to ing the intended departure date. In case purchased. For cancellations which are charged - independently from the pay- transport or accommodation (redact- of reservation after the above men- not caused by force majeure or acci- ment of a deposit as in art.5 - with the ed)... and accounting for a significant tioned date the whole payment is due in dental cause or by insufficient number individual cost of the organisation and proportion of the “tourist package”. the act of reserving the package. Failure of participants, or reasons which are the penalty in the amount indicated in 2. LEGISLATIVE SOURCES to pay the sums indicated above by the different from those of the non accept- art.9 “Cancellation Fees”. In the case of The purchase of a tourist package, established date constitutes an express ance by the consumer of the alternative pre-formed groups these amounts will either with services offered on national termination clause such as to determine tourist package offered, the operator be agreed on a case by case basis at territory or abroad will be governed by rightful termination by the operator. who cancels (art. 33 letter e Consum- the moment of the signing of the con- the Italian Law 27/12/1977 n°1084 in 6. PRICE er’s Code) will reimburse the consumer tract. ratification and implementation of the The price of the tourist package is the double of what was paid to and 9. CANCELLATION FEES International Convention on Travel Con- determined in the contract, and refers received by the operator. The amount to If the customer withdraws from the tracts (CCV) regarding travel contracts to the price indicated in the catalogue be reimbursed can never be more than contract he is anyway obliged to pay signed in Brussels on 23.04.1970 and or in the separate programmes, which the double of the amount that the con- the registration fee which is Euro 30 per also by Consumer’s Code. have been added subsequently. The sumer would owe on that same date person in 2014. The calculation of the 3. OBLIGATORY INFORMATION: contract provides that price revisions according to art. 8, comma 4 in the days does not include the day of with- TECHNICAL BRIEF can be made up to 20 days before the case the cancellation was done by the drawal. A declaration of withdrawal The operator is obliged to provide either established departure date and solely consumer himself. must be made in writing within the within the catalogue or separately to it a to allow for variations in: 8. WITHDRAWAL BY CONSUMER deadline of one working day prior to the technical brief. The details that must be - transportation costs, including the The consumer may withdraw from the booked departure date: a) withdrawal included in the technical brief within the cost of fuel; contract, without penalty only in the fol- until 30 days preceding the departure catalogue or separately to it are: - taxes or fees due for certain tourist lowing cases: date: 20% of the total amount b) with- - details regarding the operator’s services such as landing taxes or - increase in the price as mentioned in drawal from 29 until 22 days preceding administrative authorisation; embarkation or disembarkation fees at art.6 greater than 10%; the departure date: 25% of the total - details regarding the operator’s civil ports and airports; - significant changes of one or more of amount c) withdrawal from 21 until 15 responsibility insurance policy; - exchange rates applied to the pack- the elements of the contract, which are days preceding the departure date: - period of validity of the catalogue or age in question. For these variations objectively considered fundamental to 50% of the total amount d) withdrawal programmes separate to the catalogue reference will be made to the exchange the fruition of the tourist package either from 14 until 8 days preceding the or tailor made to measure travel; rate and costs mentioned above in proposed after conclusion of the con- departure date: 70% of the total - methods and conditions for transferral force on the date of publication of the tract but before departure and not amount: e) withdrawal from 7 until 1 day

72 girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com preceding the departure date: 95% of c) the transferee must reimburse the the limits for such responsibility in 21. ADDENDUM GENERAL the total amount and no-show: 100%. operator any extra costs that he may respect of the legal obligations in CONDITIONS FOR CONTRACTS - For the Bike & boat tours the following incur in order to proceed force. SALE OF SINGLE TOURIST cancellation fees apply: a) withdrawal with the transferral. The amount will be 16. LIMITS FOR COMPENSATION SERVICES until 90 days preceding the departure quantified prior to the transferral. The Compensation for damages to a per- A) LEGISLATION date: 10% of the total amount b) with- transferor and the transferee shall be son cannot in any event be superior to Contracts regarding the sale of single drawal from 89 until 60 days preceding jointly and severally liable for the pay- the limits regulated by international services (accommodation, transport, the departure date: 40% of the total ment of the price of the package and conventions to which Italy and the any separate tourist service) and those amount c) withdrawal from 59 until 30 also to the amounts in point c) of the European Union take part regarding therefore that do not regard a tourist days preceding the departure date: present article. the breach of services. In any case the package, are governed by Travel Con- 60% of the total amount d) withdrawal 13. OBBLIGATIONS compensation limit cannot exceed tracts CCV art. 1, 3 and 6, arts. 17 to from 29 until 7 days preceding the FOR THE PARTICIPANTS 50.000 Germinal Gold Francs for dam- 23 and arts. 24 to 31 with the exclu- departure date: 85% of the total The participants must be in posses- age to people, 2.000 Germinal Gold sion of references regarding contracts amount: e) withdrawal from 6 until 1 sion of a personal passport or some Francs for damage to things, 5.000 for organised travel or from other spe- day preceding the departure date: other document valid for travel in the Germinal Gold Francs for any other cific stipulations referring to the sale of 95% of the total amount and no-show: countries to be visited, as well as any damage (article 13 n°2 CCV) single services in the contract. 100%. The same amounts apply to the tourist and transit visas and health cer- 17. OBLIGATION B) CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT customer, even if the missed departure tification that might be required. They FOR ASSISTANCE The following clauses of the general is due to the lack or imprecision of the must also respect the normal rules of The operator must give assistance to contractual conditions can be applied necessary personal documents. No prudence and diligence, all information the consumer with professional dili- to these above mentioned contracts: refund is due to the customer who provided to them by the operator and gence and exclusively with reference art. 4 comma 1; art. 5; art. 7; arts.8 does not show up at the place of also any regulations and administrative to the obligations cited both by law and 9; art 10 comma 1; art. 11; art. 15 accommodation or in the case of can- or legislative requirements regarding and by contract. The operator and the and art. 17. The application of these cellation during the the program stay. their travel and tourist package. The vendor are exonerated from their clauses does not render these con- 10. ALTERATION OF participants will be liable for all and responsibilities (articles 13 and 14 of tracts in any way those of a tourist THE BOOKING any damages that may be incurred by these General Conditions) when the package. The terms used in said If the customer asks for any kind of the holiday operator that may be contract cannot be carried out in part clauses regarding contract for tourist alteration of the already booked tourist caused by their failure to respect the or completely due to the consumer or packages (operator, travel etc) must be package, he is obliged to pay the reg- above conditions. Travellers must pro- due to an unforeseeable or inevitable considered in reference to the corre- istration fee which is Euro 30 per per- vide the operator with all documents, action by a third party, or rather fortui- sponding figures of the purchasing son. A reduction in participants will be information and other elements in their tous or by force majeure. contract for the single tourist services considered a cancellation and there- possession required for the exercise of 18. COMPLAINTS AND REPORTS (vendor, accommodation etc.). fore subject to the cancellation fees as operator’s right of subrogation with Any failure in the enforcement of the 22. COMPULSORY NOTE mentioned above. The operator is not regard to third parties responsible for contract must be contested by the According to the Italian Law n.269 obliged to fulfil any customer's altera- damages. The traveller is liable consumer without delay during the dated 3/10/98, article 16. The Italian tion request of an already booked tour- towards the operator for any compro- tour so that the operator, his local rep- Law punishes the crimes concerning ist package if he is not able to meet mise to the right of subrogation. The resentative or assistant can rectify the prostitution and juvenile pornography the customer's requirements. consumer must also inform the opera- situation as quickly as possible. by means of reclusion even if these 11. ALTERATIONS AFTER tor in writing, at the moment of book- The consumer must - on penalty of crimes are committed abroad. DEPARTURE ing, of any special personal requests loss of any right to claims – make a 23. PRIVACY After departure, should the operator that may be the subject of specific written complaint by registered letter, Information regarding ex art. 13 of the find himself in a position of not being agreements on details of the holiday, with receipt of delivery, to the operator Legislative Decree 196/2003 (legal able to offer, for whatever reason, as long as the implementation of these or the vendor no later than 10 working code regarding personal data). The except for a personal reason of the requests is possible. days after the date of return to the processing of personal data is carried consumer, an essential part of the ser- 14. HOTEL CLASSIFICATION original place of departure. out both on paper and digitally, in vices included in the contract, he must The official category of hotels is 19. INSURANCE AGAINST compliance with the Legislative Decree offer alternative solutions, without described in the catalogue or with CANCELLATION EXPENSES AND 196/2003, in order to perform and con- additional cost to the price paid by the alternative informative material only on REPATRIATION clude the contract and for the imple- consumer and, if the services offered the basis of explicit and formal indica- It is advisable for the consumer to mentation of the services that consti- are of a lower value than those fore- tions by the competent authorities in draw up an insurance policy against tute the tourist package. Personal data seen, the customer must be reim- the country where the service is pro- expenses deriving from the cancella- will not be diffused, but given solely to bursed exactly for the difference. vided. In the absence of official recog- tion of the package tour, incidents, the suppliers of the services included In the case that no alternative solution nised classification of the competent luggage (loss and damage) as well as in the tourist package purchased. is possible, or rather the solution of the Public Authorities of the countries, an assistance contract, which covers The consumer may at any time exer- operator is refused by the consumer even if members of the EU, the opera- the expenses of repatriation in case of cise his/her rights under art. 7 of the for justifiable serious reasons, the tor reserves the right to their own accident or illness. Insurance policies Legislative Decree 196/03 operator will at no extra cost, provide description in the catalogue or bro- are not included in our tour package by contacting the consumer with equivalent transport chure of the structure in order to per- prices offered by the operator. GIROLIBERO back to the place of departure or to mit an evaluation and subsequent 20. NATIONAL GUARANTEE operated by Bike Incoming Srl another pre-agreed place depending acceptance of it by the consumer. FUND informally, by telephone, or at on availability of the means and plac- 15. REGIME OF RESPONSIBILITY The Presidency of the Council of Min- [email protected] es. In this case the operator will com- The operator is responsible for dam- isters has constituted a National Guar- 24. TECHNICAL DATA pensate the consumer for the differ- age caused to the consumer by the antee Fund to which consumers may Technical organisation: ence between the services to be sup- total or partial breach of contractual apply (under the terms of Art. 100 of BIKE INCOMING srl plied under the contract and those services owed, whether they are the Consumers’ Code) in the case of Viale Margherita 95 supplied to the moment of the early offered by him or by third party suppli- insolvency or bankruptcy of vendors or 36100 Vicenza return. ers of services, unless proof can be operators, for the protection of the fol- Fiscal Code 03794470249 12. TRANSFER OF BOOKINGS given that the event derived from the lowing rights: Aut. Amm. of the province of The consumer who withdraws may consumer (also including initiatives - reimbursement of price paid; Vicenza n° 22507 of 26/03/2013 transfer his booking to another person carried out independently by the con- - repatriation in case of holidays Insurance guarantee: provided that: sumer) or by external circumstances in abroad. Unipol Assicurazioni Spa a) the operator has been informed in supplying contractual services, acci- The fund must also ensure immediate N. 40173402 RC. All prices are in Euro. writing at least 4 working days before dental cause, force majeure, or from availability of economic assistance in The printing ends in November 2013, the established departure date and circumstances that the operator could the case of obligatory return of holiday changes might appear beyond our also at the same time receives com- not, professionally or realistically fore- makers from non-European Union control. We apologize for any printing munication regarding all the details of see or resolve. The vendor where the countries due to emergencies ascriba- errors or omissions. the transferee; booking for the tourist package was ble or otherwise to the conduct of the b) the transferee satisfies all the condi- made is not held responsible under operator. The details of the use of the tions to benefit from the service (ex. any circumstances for obligations that fund are governed by Decree of the Article 89 Consumer’s Code) and in arise from the organisation of the jour- President of the Council of Ministers particular with requisites regarding ney, but is responsible exclusively for dated 23 July 1999. no. 349 G.U.n° passports, visas and medical certifi- the obligations that arise from the 249 dated 12/10/1999. cates; quality of mediation and therefore in

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 73 HOW TO BOOK

SAVING Early Group CHOOSE YOUR TOUR TIPS booking discount: on the website www.girolibero.com discount: from 6 * before people or on this brochure. 31.1.14

Bike & Hotel - 3% - 5% tours** CONTACT US Bike & Boat - 8% - 5% to check the availability low–middle (with all details) and to receive an season*** exact quotation. Bike & Boat - 3% - 5% high season*** RECEIVE AN OPTION * Valid only on basic tour price and If it is possible to book the desired only for tours of min. 6 nights ** Discounts are cumulative tour, you will receive a non-binding *** Discounts are not cumulative option for few days.

CONTACT US: +39 0444 330724 SEND US YOUR BOOKING Telephone: Fax: +39 0444 167930 Within this time send us the booking [email protected] form (page 75) and a copy of the deposit (25% of the total amount of the tour price). BANK ACCOUNT: You can pay per credit card or per Bike Incoming srl bank transfer on our account. Banca Popolare Friuladria-Crédit Agricole C/C: 40277489 ABI: 05336 WE WILL SEND YOU Iban: ...... 60165 Bic: ...... CAB: Banca: ...... THE BOOKING Causale: ...... CIN: b CONFIRMATION IBAN: after receiving the deposit. IT54B0533660165000040277489 BIC: BPPNIT2P189 Name of the travel Reference: applicant + tour code SEND US THE BALANCE 30 days before the departure. (Please note the date in your agenda – Girolibero will NOT remind you to do it).

RECEIVE THE TRAVEL DOCUMENTS After the payment we will send you the hotel list and the general travel information per e-mail. The travel documents will be sent by post (EU countries) or delivered on site.

74 girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com BOOKING FORM Viale Margherita 95, 36100 Vicenza, Italy Telephone: 0039 0444 330724 Fax: 0039 0444 167930 I book the following tour for myself and the the participants mentioned below: [email protected] - www.girolibero.com

Tour ......

Departure ...... J self-guided tour J guided tour

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

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

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

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

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

Travel applicant

Name ...... Surname ......

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

Full address ......

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

Participants Bikes

Unisex bike Male bike

Date of 7 27 7 27 E-bike*** Name, Surname birth Own gears* gears** gears* gears** Height

JJJJJJ

Notes * Nexus Shimano with pedal brake...... Available only for some tours and on request. ** Deore Shimano without pedal brake. Available for any tour...... *** Available only for some tours and on request.

Payment

I pay through J Bank transfer J Credit card

How did you know Girolibero?

J Friends’ suggestion J Exhibition J Internet J Press

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

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

Place ...... Date ...... Signature ...... number 03794470249 Vat Vicenza Italy. 36100 Viale Margherita 95, Girolibero operated by Bike Incoming Srl,

girolibero - tel. 0039 0444 330724 - [email protected] - www.girolibero.com 75 FERRARA taste it feel free

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PROVINCIA COMUNE DI United Nations Ferrara, City of DI FERRARA COMACCHIO Educational, Scientific and the Renaissance Cultural Organization and its Po Delta

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