Girolibero brochure 2015

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Girolibero - Via Conforto da Costozza, 7 - I - 36100 Vicenza - tel. +39 0444 330724 - www.girolibero.com

2015CYCLING AND BIKE&BOATSelf-Guided and Guided tours in Italy and France

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GIROLIBEROContact usMonday to Friday8.30 to 13.00 and 15.00 to 18.30

Tel (+39) 0444 330724Fax (+39) 0444 [email protected]

Graphics: www.noparking.it

COMPANY REGISTRATION

BIKE INCOMING S.R.L.via Conforto da Costozza, 736100 Vicenza - ItalyFiscal Code 03794470249

BROCHURE

2015OVER

50 BIKE TOURS IN ITALY, FRANCE, REST OF EUROPE

FURTHER TOURS AND DETAILS ARE AVAILABLEON OUR WEBSITE:

www.girolibero.com

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Our family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 4

A… cycling holiday?! . . . . . . . p. 6

Which one’s for me? . . . . . . p. 8

Our bikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 10

Accompanying material and backup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 12

Greens, our bike guides . . .p. 14

Photo contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p.16

Our boats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 18

Life on board doing Bike & Boat in style . . . . . . . .p. 24

Exclusive chartering your own rivercruise . . . . . . p. 26

General conditions . . . . . . . . .p.80

How to book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p.82

Booking form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p.83

BIKE & BOAT IN ITALY

Mantua–Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 28

Venice–Mantua . . . . . . . . . . . p. 29

Bolzano–Mantua–Venice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 30

BIKE & BOAT IN FRANCE

Aigues-Mortes–Avignon . . p. 32

Avignon–Aigues-Mortes . . p. 33

BIKE & HOTELIN ITALY

Veneto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 36

Bolzano–Verona–Venice . . p. 38

Adige Cycle Route . . . . . . . . p. 40

Innsbruck–Venice . . . . . . . . . p. 42

Lake Garda–Venice . . . . . . . p. 43

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

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

Venice–Porec . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 46

Lake Garda–Adriatic . . . . . p. 49

Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 50

Terme Euganee . . . . . . . . . . . p. 51

South Tyrol Valleys . . . . . . . . p. 52

Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 54

Umbria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 55

Tuscany: Pisa–Florenz . . . . p. 56

Tuscany: Chianti . . . . . . . . . . p. 57

Apulia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 58

Sicily . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 59

BIKE & HOTELIN FRANCE

Loire valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 60

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

Provence–Camargue . . . . . p. 64

BIKE & FAMILYIN ITALY

Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 66

Vicenza–Abano . . . . . . . . . . . p. 67

BIKE & FAMILYIN FRANCE

Loire valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 68

ROADBIKEIN ITALY

Bolzano–Venice . . . . . . . . . . p. 70

Dolomites and Stelvio Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 71

Venice Lands . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 72

Lake Garda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 73

Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 74

Tuscany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 75

Bespoke tours . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 76

INDEX

All the elevation profi les

on p. 77

OUR FAMILY WE HAVE BEEN RUNNING CYCLING TOURS SINCE 1998, STARTING FROM A PERSONAL BET, A PROJECT FOR A LIFETIME: TURNING OUR PASSION INTO A FULFILLING JOB. WELL, WE MADE IT – AND OUR MISSION NOW IS TO KEEP ALIVE THE PASSION THAT PROPELLED US FROM THE START. OVER 40 PEOPLE WORK IN OUR TEAM, WHICH HAS GROWN AND GROWN OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS, WITH ALL THE ENTHUSIASM OF AN EXTENDED FAMILY.

Year2002

Year2014

ITALIANS ON HOLIDAY WITH

GIROLIBERO

8,000

700

NO. OF STAFF

42

2

NO. OF BIKES

24

1,300

FOREIGN VISITORS IN ITALY WITH GIROLIBERO

9,000

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NO. OF TRAVELLERS

BY BIKE & BOAT

40

3,800

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

BROCHURE 2015

GIROLIBERO - OPERATED BY BIKE INCOMING We are the cycling holiday experts for Italy and France. We programme, organise, provide assistance and test all our tours, making sure that the routes are quiet, the food tasty and the beds comfy. For us fulfi lling our clients’ requests is a matter of pride - whether you’re occasional cyclists or accomplished riders. www.girolibero.com

GIROLIBERO - VACANZE FACILI IN BICICLETTAis the principal Italian tour operator specialising in cycling holidays and off ering over 200 itineraries worldwide for thousands of Italians.

The favourite tours: Danube cycle path, Bike & Boat in Netherlands, Avenue Verte Paris–London, Loire Valleywww.girolibero.it

ZEPPELIN Since 1998 organizes outdoor travels worldwide for the italian market: Sailing and cruising; Trekking and walking; Bike and Bike & Boat tours; Discovery and Adventure tours.

The favourite tours: sailing in Sardinia, Camino de Santiago walking tour, discovery tour in India, Australia, Russia…www.zeppelin.it

1,300BIKES IN VICENZA that during the summer season we bring throughout Italy

250 BIKES IN ORLÉANSready for the tours Loire Valley and Paris–London

150 BIKES IN ARLESready for the tours Provence and Camargue Bike & Hotel and Bike & Boat

more about our bikes on p. 10

10VANS

11BIKE TRAILERS

and hundreds of accessories go in and out of the workshops, supervised by OUR MECHANICS and logistics staff . .

In winter all bikes deployed on our tours come back into our workshop for a complete overhaul.

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WHO WE ARE:

Program-ming

NICOLA BOARIAat our offices since the beginning of time2 km by Girolibero bike (+ child seat) to get to workANTONIO FASOLATOMy last family holiday? Loire valley30 km by car + folding bike to get to work

A... CYCLING HOLIDAY ?!

IT’S THE EASIEST THING!

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

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

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

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

BACKGROUND MATERIALOur main job in winter is to prepare all the background material you may need: maps, itinerary directions and a wealth of local information are all essential tools for the independent cyclist who needs to find his or her own way. Our background material is detailed and allows you to get from A to B with ease (see also p. 12). We are also happy to supply up-to-date GPS-devices for anyone who prefers to navigate with a GPS.

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

OUR FLEET OF BIKESOver 1,300 citybikes, assembled by our own mechanics specifically with your needs in mind: light but tough frames; puncture-resistant tyres; responsive breaks and gears; gel saddles in various heights; plus mudguards and saddlebag racks. Our e-bikes are increasingly popular: they’re up-to-scratch, reliable and benefit from high-capacity batteries for even the longest of days. (See also p. 10)

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

5GOOD REASONS FOR CHOOSINGA HOLIDAYON TWO WHEELS

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

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

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

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

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

5refuelling body and soul, away from the madding crowd

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

SELF-GUIDED TOURS

For the independent rider – whether solo or with friends and family – following our own set route using our maps and detailed directions for each stage. No group, no Tour Leader: just rider and bike. Girolibero will book your hotels, transfer your luggage from stop to stop, and provide you with all necessary information material and assistance. You will be spoilt for choice: discover Italy on two wheels, head to toe – or why not head for France and discover some its most beautiful regions?

OptionsKATIA BRUSTOLONBorn in the Dolomites, pure and clear like water! 2 km by Girolibero bike to get to workANNA VALLEone semester at Amsterdam University and she’s in love with her bike3 km by Girolibero bike (+ child seat) to get to work

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

FROM OUR GUEST BOOK:“We have just returned from an amazing trip through Tuscany! The routes were well thought out, the maps and directions very clear and easy to follow, and the hotels were nice and in great locations. Thank you to Girolibero, this was the very best way to experience Tuscany. We look forward to our next trip!”Doris, Tuscany Pisa–Florence, p. 56


GUIDED TOURS

TAILORMADE TOURS

BROCHURE 2015

The ideal holiday for the cyclist who enjoyes the company of others and meeting like-minded people. Plus, the peace of mind of travelling with a Tour Leader: they guide the group along the route and are informed about all things local; they are also there to help if necessary and generally run the show. The following are available as group tours in this brochure: Mantua–Venice by Bike and Boat (p. 28), Provence–Camargue by Bike and Boat (p. 32), Veneto (p. 36), Bolzano–Verona–Venice (p. 38), Paris–London (p. 62).

Whether it’s for a special interest group, an extended family clan or a tribe of friends; for an association, a club or a business: we can adapt our existing tours or create new ones from scratch. Flexibility is the name of this particular game: 1 hotels picked to suit your needs, 2 shorter or longer cycling stretches as requested, 3 customised background material, 4 an expert Tour Leader. And these are the cards we play with: 5 top quality hire bikes (pp. 10-11), 6 bike trailers to transport them anywhere around Europe (up to 200), 7 floating hotels for any Bike and Boat tours (see pp. 20-23), 8 Plus, we can book the best restaurants, Guided tours and any other extra service.

FROM OUR GUEST BOOK:Hello, We just wanted to write to let you know how impressed we were with both the tour and tour guide on our recent cycling holiday. The hotels exceeded our expectations on the whole and the food was excellent. Our guide was both knowledgeable and fun and she gave time to the whole group. It was quite a mix with six Germans, one Spanish, one Irishman and two English.Anna, Veneto, p. 36

FROM OUR GUEST BOOK:We have just returned from our Bike & Boat tour aboard the Vita Pugna, and I just wanted to tell you that the experience was quite unforgettable. We’d never had a boat all to ourselves, as a group, and we’ve had the time of our lives: the crew was attentive and willing, and our tour leader a true travelling companion. We’d love to do it all again next year: when you get a chance, could you let us know what availability there is for your boats in Provence and Camargue, please? Best regards Klaus, Mantua–Venice, p. 28

Bikes

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

SPECIALISTS ANDCRAFTSMEN

Girolibero’s unmistakeable orange bike (branded with our famous Green Bee!) is assembled in Vicenza. It’s a low-entry citybike with an aluminium frame, mudguards, a saddlebag rack, comfortable gel saddle, puncture-resistant Schwalbe Marathon tyres, and with responsive breaks and gears. At the point of hire we also provide waterproof Ortlieb saddlebags, handlebar bag or mapholder, repair kit and combination lock – all for free. All bikes are serviced, tuned and cleaned prior to each departure.

NICOLA FABRISCan’t stay away from his snowboards, vespas and... bikes!10 km by mountain bike to get to workALBERTO BRICHESEthe Workbench Wizard1 km by Girolibero bike to get to work

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BROCHURE 2015

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

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

SPECIAL BIKES (available on request)

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

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

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

7 8 FAMILY TANDEMA versatile bike for cycling with more than one child (ages 3-10) onderwaterfi ets.nlAlso available the Followme tandem (ages 4-7): the child’s bike can be locked fi rmly onto the tail of the adult’s bike when necessary. followme-tandem.com

9 CHILD TRAILERWith one seat (ages 0-4). croozer.com

ACCESSORIES9 HANDLEBAR BAG klickfi x.de connection

REPAIR KIT

SPECIAL2 ELECTRIC BIKESBy popular demand, Girolibero has now invested in a considerable number of e-bikes, much favoured by cyclists who love the Great Outdoors, but prefer to let the bike take the strain. Our research has led us to:

Kalkhoff , Agattu modelMotor: 36 volts, 540W/H Impulse, located centrally. The high-capacity battery is secured to the seat tube. Gears: Nexus 8-speed. Range: approx. 90 km (fl at terrain, average speed).

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Info-packs

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

VALENTINA MACCÀa passion for languages, a maniac for precision20 km by bus + folding bike to get to workMADDALENA DAL PORTOtravelled a lot throughout Europe. The result? There is never a unique perspective!2 km by Girolibero bike to get to work

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BROCHURE 2015

INFO-PACKSELF-GUIDED TOURSWe provide one complete info-pack per room/cabin, containing:1. Travel documents (vouchers, hotel list)2. Luggage labels3. Handlebar bag4. Water bottle (1 per Bike)5. Girolibero Greens Roadbook (pp. 14-15) 6. Girolibero Greens Maps (pp. 14-15) 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide (pp. 14-15) or or a guide by a diff erent publisher On request and adding an extra cost, we can give also GPS-Device with maps.

GUIDED TOURSA tour leader will guide the group and take with him the travel documents for all the participants. You will receive the following items only:2. Luggage labels3. Handlebar bag4. Water bottle (1 per Bike)6. Girolibero Greens Maps (pp. 14-15) 7. Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide (pp. 14-15) or a guide by a diff erent publisher

FINDING THE WAYTo help you follow your roadbook more easily, we placed arrow stickers as road signs along the way. With them and our accompanying material it will be impossible to get lost!

TELEPHONE ASSISTANCE Customer Care and Hotline ServiceThis phone service is there to assist you seven days a week (from 8.00 to 20.00 hours) for any emergency or tour-related issue. Our vehicles and staff are never far away from you since we look after your bikes and your luggage.

We are therefore generally available to step in to help at short notice, if required.

I DON’T SPEAK ITALIAN!No problem! Our guides and travel documents are also available in English and German, as well as (depending on the destination) in French and Dutch. Our Tour Leaders and staff are generally multilingual too.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED

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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.

Greensguides

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ELENA RIATTIroadbooks, brochures, etc.: right, that’s signed off – let’s print it!3 km by Girolibero bike to get to workGIOVANNI BOTTAZZIbikes, trailers and tour leaders throughout Europe5 km by bike to get to work

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str.lla Valmarana

via Olmo – SR11

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viale J. dal Verme

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G. V

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viale S

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vial

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piazza dei Signori

corso Palladio

corso Fogazzaro

via Bacchiglione

via G

alile

i

corso Padova

viale della Pace

viale della Serenissima

via Aldo Moro –SR11

viale dello Stadio

viale

Tries

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viale Fiume

via Castelfidardo

viale Circoli

via G. M

edici

stra

da

SP24

8

viale

B. d’A

lvian

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via Lamarm

ora

viale Venezia

Parco Querini

Stazioneviale Veronacorso

SS Felice e Fo

rtunato

via F. de Ferreti

viale della Tecnica

viale dell’Industria

via

A. Rossi strada di Gogna

via Bastianoborgo Berga – SS248

via Rotondaviale Riviera Berica –SP247/SS248

strada statale Padana verso Padova – SR11

viale Camisano

viale G. Trissino

vial

e M

arghe

rita

viale F. Rodolfi

borg

o Sc

rofa

viale F.lli Bandiera

viale

Gra

ppa

via dei Laghi Mar

ostic

ana

viale Milano

viale Eretenioviale 10 Giugno

viale T

rieste

viale 10 Giugno

viale Milano

via A. Fusinato

via Legione

Gallieno

strada del Pasubio – SP45

CAMPEDELLO

via G. Maganza

BROCHURE 2015

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

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

2) Detailed maps of the route: in colour and at a scale of 1:50,000/1:75,000, including elevation and maps of any town centres of historical relevance.

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

N.B. Maps and Roadbooks are available in Italian, English and German for all our tours; extra languages are also available in selected cases.

* Greens travel guides are currently available for:Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice (by Bike and Boat); Bolzano–Verona–Venice, Venice–Poreč and Resiapass–Bolzano.For all other tours, you will receive (free of charge) a comprehensive and up-to-date guide produced by another publisher.

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

THE ROADBOOK EFFORTLESS NAVIGATION:

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Your photos

WIN A BIKE&BOAT HOLIDAY IN ITALY!WE BELIEVE IN REWARDING OUR CUSTOMERS, AND WHAT BETTER WAY THAN BY APPRECIATING YOUR BEST PHOTOS? WE ARE KEEN TO INCLUDE AS MANY AS POSSIBLE ON OUR WEBSITE AND IN OUR BROCHURES. BETTER STILL, IF YOUR PHOTO IS THE CHOSEN PRIZE WINNER, YOU WILL EARN YOURSELF A WEEK’S BIKE AND BOAT HOLIDAY IN ITALY.

We are not looking for professional shots: what we really love is pictures that portray the beauty of the places you visit and the cycling itinerary, as well as the ones that capture the fun of the moment, a great group photo, your selfi es or a memorable night in good company!

Terms & Conditions on our websitewww.girolibero.com

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www.folioverlag.com

A must for natives, newcomers and anyone planning a visit to these fascinating places!

Sonja FranzkeThe Complete AustriaInfographics: no.parkingTexts in German, English128 pp., ISBN 978-3-85256-630-6

Hermann Gummerer / Franziska HackThe Complete South TyrolInfographics: no.parkingTexts in German, Italian, English128 pp., ISBN 978-3-85256-607-8

Martin WittmannThe Complete BavariaInfographics: no.parkingTexts in German, English128 pp., ISBN 978-3-85256-646-7

BIKE & BOAT

A bike by day for transport, a boat by night for meals and a good sleep. Your barge or river cruiser is your floating hotel and follows the cycling stages along the river. Fancy a lazy day in? – Well, there’s your home from home.All boats are fully crewed: a skipper at the helm, and catering staff to prepare breakfast, a slap-up dinner and all you need for your packed lunch. Our Bike & Boat tours can be enjoyed either on a group tour accompanied by a tour leader, or Self-Guided.


1 IN FIGURESCapacity: 21 guestsLength: 36 mWidth: 5.4 mDraught: 1.60 m

2 CABINS› 10 Standard Twin cabins

(including one accommodating up to 3 guests) of 7/8 m2.

All cabins are equipped with comfortable low twin beds and en-suite facilities. They also off er the convenience of attractive, traditional portholes, which can be opened for fresh air. The corridor is air-conditioned.Bed size is 1.90/2 m x 0.75/0.80 m

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

4 EXTRA FEATURES› 1 sundeck› Free hot drinks machine

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

5 TOURSMantua–Venice/ Venice–Mantua, Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: (pp. 28-30)

B

B B

B B

B B C

B B

Type of cabins

C

Twin/Triple cabin 2+1

B

Twin cabin 2Crew cabin

BROCHURE 2015

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.VITA PUGNA


BROCHURE 2015

1 IN FIGURESCapacity: 40 guestsLength: 41 mWidth: 7.5 mDraught: 1.05 m

2 CABINS› 4 Superior Double cabins (two of

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

› 10 Standard Double cabins (three of these can accomodate up to 3 persons adding 1 bunk bed) below deck, approx. 11 m2

› 3 bunk bed cabins (also available as Single cabins) below deck, approx. 7.5 m2

All cabins enjoy sizeable windows (the ones in the Superior cabins can also be opened), comfortable low beds, en-suite facilities and air conditioning. Bed/bunk size is 2.00 x 0.80 m. Most of the cabins can be separated into two single beds. 3 THE LIVING AREAMeasuring 11 x 7.5 m and air-conditioned, it is divided into two areas:› the Restaurant (up to 33 seats)› the Lounge (up to 28 seats)

4 EXTRA FEATURES› 2 sundecks› Free hot drinks machine

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

video/internet › Dedicated bike storage (for

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

available on request

5 TOURSMantua–Venice/ Venice–Mantua, Bolzano–Mantua–Venice: (pp. 28-30)

B BA B CC

B B B AA CB

D D

D D

Type of cabins

D

Twin/Double/ Triple/Family cabin

2+1+1

Twin cabin 2

C

Twin/Double/ Triple cabin 2+1

Double/ Triple cabin 2+1

B

Twin/Double cabin

2

A

Single/ Bunk bed cabin 1+1

Crew cabin

Modern, bright and spacious, the Ave Maria was designed by a well-known team of

Italian architects and launched in 2011.AVE MARIA


BROCHURE 2015

SOLEO

1 IN FIGURESCapacity: 22 guests

Length: 38.5 m Width: 5.1 m

Draught: 1.6 m

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

2 Singles) measuring 7-8 m2Each cabin has three fi xed portholes (one is in the bathroom), air conditioning and en-suite facilities with shower area; plus ample closet space, a power socket and a full-length mirror.Bed sizes: 1.90 m x 0.80 m (Singles) and 1.90 m x 1.40 m (Doubles).

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

4 EXTRA FEATURES› Sundeck with seating

accommodation and fi xed awning. Half of the sundeck is completely sheltered from the elements

› Free WiFi in the restaurant/bar area

› Stereo system in the restaurant/bar area

5 TOURSProvence and Camargue Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/Avignon–Aigues-Mortes (pp. 32-34)

B C C

CCA

B A B

BBB

Type of cabins

C

Double cabin 2

B

Twin cabin 2A

Single cabin 1

The Soleo is a local fl atboat built in 1958, converted into a leisure boat in 1988 and

refurbished in 2009.


BROCHURE 2015

L’ESTELLO

1 IN FIGURESCapacity: 20 guests

Length: 39 m Width: 5.2 m Draught: 1.6 m

2 CABINS› 10 Double cabins (one with a

double bed and nine with twin beds) measuring 7-8 m2.

Each cabin has two portholes (one is in the bathroom), is air-conditioned and has en-suite facilities.Bed sizes: 1.90/2 m x 0.75/0.80 m 3 THE LIVING AREAThe air-conditioned living room is divided into two areas:› Restaurant, with large picture

windows› Bar area with comfortable sofas

and armchairs

4 EXTRA FEATURES› Sundeck with a fixed awning,

tables and chairs› Free WiFi in the restaurant/

bar area› “Bring and Borrow” supply of

travel books› Pétanque/Boules sets and board

games available

5 TOURSProvence and Camargue Aigues-Mortes–Avignon/Avignon–Aigues-Mortes (pp. 32-34)

B B B B

BCBB B B

Type of cabins

C

Double cabin 2

B

Twin cabin 2

L’Estello is a 1937 Dutch barge sailed over to France; she has been refurbished to off er a high level of comfort,

without compromising any of her original charm.

LIFE ON BOARDDOING “BIKE & BOAT” IN STYLE

Bike & Boat

SERVICE AT ITS VERY BEST ABOARD OUR “FLOATING HOTELS” IN ITALY AND FRANCE: COMFORT, HOSPITALITY, QUALITY AND... BELLA VITA!THIS IS WHAT MAKES GIROLIBERO’S BIKE & BOAT HOLIDAYS UNIQUE.

24

THE CREWcaptains, cooks and service personnel2 weeks on board, 2 week on the ground,6 months a yearNICOLÒ MINATIA life on the road, delivering to our boats whatever they need10 km by his old-fashioned bike to get to work

OUR VERY OWN NOAH’S ARKAboard our boats you’ll be joined by travelling companions from all over, as well as a Tour Leader who speaks the group’s two main languages – usually English and German. Shall we bet that you’ll go back home with a smattering of Italian or French?

COMFORT: RELAX IN YOUR CABIN ANDIN THE PUBLIC SPACESOur boats are among the most comfortable for bike and boat tours in Italy and France: en-suite facilities, low beds available on all boats, and clean and welcoming public spaces. A great home-from-home to come back to every day.0 Want to know more? Read all about our boats on pp. 20-23.

100% GIROLIBERO BIKESOur unmistakeable two-wheelers in their orange livery hold pride of place on our boats, ensuring trouble-free riding, comfort and safety. 0 Want to know more? Read all about our bikes on pp. 10-11.

“BUON APPETITO”!In Italy we know a thing or two about pots and pans, and our on-board catering is simple but subtle, with a good selection of local wines and excellent service. The Ave Maria and Vita Pugna chefs boast plenty of experience and, in the words of our clients, their dishes alone are worth the trip. 0 Here are two sample menus: 1- Linguine with asparagus, rare roast beef with fresh rocket leaves and stuffed tomatoes, Venetian mixed salad, tiramisù (see recipe below). 2- Freshly caught seafood in wine and herbs, seabass meunière with baby potatoes, fennel and orange salad, chocolate and cherry mousse.

SEE EVEN MORE OF FRANCEA Girolibero van and driver are on hand, should you want to have a day off your bike and explore Provence and Camargue at a more leisurely pace. Aboard the Estello and Soleo you will find all the info material you need to organise your day-trip.0 A couple of ideas: visit the ancient Roman city of Nîmes; head into the Luberon lavender fields; sip some wines at Gallician; marvel at the Salins du Midi salt marshes; hike from Gallician to Aigues Mortes.

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

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

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

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

“SQUISITO!”

BROCHURE 2015

25


River Cruising and Charter

GIULIO VALLORTIGARAproud of the red and white livery of the Ave Maria and his beloved Vicenza FC!6 km by e-bike to get to workANTONIO GERMANIsimply put: sorts it all out10 km by mountain bike to get to work

FOR GROUPS KEENER ON SIGHTSEEING THAN CYCLING WE CAN ARRANGE A ONE-WEEK RIVER CRUISE WITH MINIBUS EXCURSIONS TO CITIES OF ART, ARCHITECTURE AND... SHOPPING.

EXCLUSIVE CHARTERINGDOING “BIKE & BOAT” IN STYLE


BROCHURE 2015

IN BRIEF:• Relax and overnight stays

aboard the 4* barge Ave Maria (Vita Pugna barge also available on request)

• Daily minibus excursions to Verona, Lake Garda, Padova, Vicenza, Bologna, Milan...

• You can modify the land excusions and visits and also request a bespoken board service (i.e. ask for a fully catered lunch; 4-meal dinners; daily cleaning of the cabin; extra crew member…)

» THE WEEKS NOT TO BE MISSED:

19th July 2015 Festa del Redentore (Feast of

the Holy Redeemer), Venice; 26th August - 5 September

2015 The Venice Film Festival;

6th September 2015Regata Storica (the main historical Regatta in Europe)

» WINTER WEEKENDS During November and

March, our boats in Italy are also available for weekends and longer breaks. How about celebrating Christmas, New Year‘s Eve or Carnival with us on board?

» COURSES AND

ACTIVITY BREAKS Cooking, painting, yoga,

history of art…

» TEAMBUILDING Ave Maria and Vita Pugna

have proved popular with groups of colleagues who want a quiet environment in which to spend some time bonding.

0 Have a look at the video

from a recent team building exercise on board: www.avemariaboat.com

DISCOVER NORTHERN ITALY ... ANOTHER IDEA OR TWO!

Canal BiancoPo

Po Po Delta

ADRIATIC SEA

Lake Garda

Ferrara

Chioggia

S.Benedetto Revere

MantuaAdria

Venice

Treviso

VeronaMilan

Bologna

VicenzaPadova

Mincio

navigable canal

navigable river

mooring place

possible excursion by private bus

Zelo


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Mantua. The cabins are available from 4.30 p.m. The meeting with the tour leader and the crew is scheduled at dinner-time, at 7 p.m. 2. Mantua round tour (40 km). A day dedicated to the discovery of this little visited cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the Mincio, and its surrounding countryside – once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family and now considered by many as Italy’s “Sleeping Beauty”. In the late afternoon a local guide will lead you through the most known highlights of the town. 3. Mantua–Governolo–Zelo (50 km by bike). A short cruise along the lush banks of the Mincio takes us to Governolo, where it flows into the Po and forms the largest inland basin in Italy. At Governolo Lock, once a vital staging post for local navigation, we saddle our bikes and follow the Po through Ostiglia (famed for

its medieval fortress and floating mill) and on to the village of Bergantino. Here we visit the charming Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum. Finally, we reach Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs parallel to the Po.4. Zelo–Ferrara–Adria (50 km by bike + 60 km by bus). After breakfast we continue our bike and boat adventure cycling towards Ferrara, another key City State of ancient Italy. You will visit this historic town and discover its little touched centre, still surrounded by the original city walls. From Ferrara a short transfer by private coach will take you to Adria. Once close to the shores of the sea which bears its name, Adria was an ancient Greek port, famous for trading Baltic amber. Its remarkable museum also bears witness to its Etruscan, Roman and Venetian heritage.5. Adria–Porto Viro–Chioggia (40 km).

An exhilarating day of discovery alternat-ing sailing and cycling starts with a short cruise to our drop-off point at Porto Viro and the exploration of the Po’s delta. This unique wetland park is the prime reserve in Europe for herons and home to several colonies of flamingos. At the mouth of the River Adige, which flows fast and cool from the Dolomites, we then follow the Po-Brondolo waterway and reach the Venetian lagoon. Our overnight stop is the bustling and colour-ful fishing port of Chioggia, known as “Little Venice”. 6. Chioggia–Venice (30 km). A morning visit to the fish market is recommended and, time allowing, we also climb up Chioggia’s millennial clock tower – the oldest in the world – for some breathtak-ing views. We then enjoy some island hopping in the lagoon itself by bike and boat, starting with our barge dropping us off on Pellestrina (home to the Ca’

Roman nature reserve); and continuing by public ferry for the short crossing to the Lido island. Celebrated by Thomas Mann (Death in Venice) and particularly fashionable with the artists and aristoc-racy of the Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home to the International Venice Film Festival and its galaxy of stars. Finally, our floating hotel takes us to our marina in Venice, for the culmina-tion of our bike and boat holiday.7. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the capital of the ancient “Serenissima Republic of Ven-ice”, which held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centu-ries. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.8. Venice.After breakfast end of ser-vices. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Veneto (36), Venice–Porec (46).

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

Bike & Boat in ItalyMantua–Venice

Ferrara

Chioggia

S.Benedetto Revere

ZeloMantova

Adria

Venezia

Treviso

Verona

Vicenza

Padova Mestre

Mincio Adige

Po

Po

Brenta

Delta del Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Lagunadi Venezia

ILago diGarda


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Venice. The cabins are available from 4.30 p.m. The meeting with the tour leader and the crew is scheduled at dinner-time, at 7 p.m. It is possible to combine an extra tour before your bike&boat week: Venice–Porec, Veneto.2. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the capital of the ancient “Serenissima Republic of Ven-ice”, which held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centu-ries. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.3. Venice–Chioggia (30 km). Cruising out of Venice at a gentle pace, we start our bike and boat adventure on the Lido, the fi rst of the two islands we explore today. Fashionable with the artists and aristocracy of the Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home to the Interna-tional Venice Film Festival and its galaxy of stars. A short island-hop takes us to Pellestrina, where we cycle towards the Ca’ Roman nature reserve, past the fi shermen’s cottages and boats. Here, where we rejoin the barge and sail to Chioggia – a bustling and colourful fi shing harbour known as “Little Venice”.4. Chioggia–Porto Viro–Adria (40 km). A morning stroll through Chioggia’s fi sh market is recommended and, time allowing, a visit up the millennial clock tower – the oldest in the world – for some breathtaking views. Our cycling resumes southbound, into the delta of the imposing Po. This unique wetland park is the prime reserve in Europe for herons and home to a colony of fl amin-gos. We overnight in Adria, an ancient Greek port once close to the shores of

the sea which bears its name, also renowned for its Etruscan and Roman heritage.5. Adria–Ferrara–Zelo (35 km by bike + 35 km by bus). After a short cruise we saddle our bikes and, following the Po through farmland and hamlets, we reach Ferrara. Under its overlords, the Este family, this ancient City State attracted infl uential architects and artists for centuries. A private bus takes us back to our fl oating hotel in Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs parallel to the Po.6. Zelo–Mantua (50 km). We sail for a short stretch and, back on our bikes, we reach the village of Bergantino where we visit the charming Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum. Following the river through Ostiglia (famed for its medieval fortress and fl oating mill) and on to Governolo Lock. Once a vital staging post for local navigation, this is where the River Mincio fl ows into the Po, creating the largest inland basin in Italy. Leaving the Po behind, we reach Mantua through a magnifi cent navigation in the afternoon.7. Mantua round tour (40 km). An entire day dedicated to the discovery of this little visited cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the Mincio, and its surrounding countryside – once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family. In the late afternoon a local guide will lead you through the most known highlights of the town.8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast. Possibility to book extra nights.

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

Bike & Boat in ItalyVenice–Mantua

ACCOMPANYING MATERIALFor these tours you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide- Maps- Roadbook

GIROLIBERO GREENSG

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Bike & Boat tour in Italy. The original.

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ROADBOOKROADBOOK

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

MAPS

Bike & Boat

For these tours you will receive the complete set

From Venice

Bike & Boat

This guide accompanies the Girolibero bike & boat tour and

aims to whet your appetite for the regions between Venice

and Mantua:

, scenically and culturally fascinating places

, historical information

, useful information

, tips on good meals and snacks

From

Ven

ice

to M

antu

a From Venice

to Mantua

Gir

ol i b e r

o

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Sights, history, wining and dining tips,

useful information

CYCLING GUIDE

BIKE & BOAT

Bike & Boat tour in Italy. The original.

B

ERO

S · ··

··

MantuaVenice

From Venice

Gi r

o l i b e

ro

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GR E E N S

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

From Venice

to Mantua

Gir

ol i b e r

o

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·· · G R E E N

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useful information

This guide accompanies the Girolibero bike & boat tour and

aims to whet your appetite for the regions between Venice

and Mantua:, scenically and culturally fascinating places

, historical information

, useful information

, tips on good meals and snacks

From

Man

tua

to V

enic

e

From Mantuato Venice

Gi r

o l i b

er

o

··

··

·G

RE E N S · · ·

··


useful information

CYCLING GUIDEBIKE & BOAT

City of Mantua, jewel of the Italian RenaissancePo Delta Reserve, natural beauty and birdlife

Fresh seafood, cooked aboard following traditional recipesLugana, white wine


| | | | | 370 km | 11 Days/10 Nights | the first 4 days Self-Guided only

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

Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Bolzano.2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km). You cycle along the Adige beside apple orchards, vineyards and through the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. You then reach Trento: take your time to have a look behind the splendid walls of its painted buildings. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.3. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). You reach Rovereto and Mori. From here you continue up on a gently rising slope in direction of Lake Garda. On the ferry boat you travel as far as Peschiera/Desenzano along the southern shore of the lake. 4. Desenzano/Peschiera–Mantua(70/45 km). Today you will cycle follow-

ing one of the most famous Italian cycle paths, which runs parallel to the River Mincio. The stage ends in Mantua, with overnight aboard our barges Ave Maria/ Vita Pugna.5. Mantua round tour (40 km). An entire day dedicated to the discovery of this wonderful city and its sorround-ings dominated by the family of Gonzaga. 6. Mantua–Governolo–Zelo (50 km by bike). The boat takes you to Governolo, then you start the ride follow-ing the River Po. Subsequently you will visit the “Carousel and folk show mu-seum” in Bergantino. After a few kms the barge awaits you in Zelo.7. Zelo–Ferrara–Adria (50 km by bike + 60 km by bus). After breakfast you will start cycling towards Ferrara, a wonder-ful town with a historical centre, still surrounded by the old city walls. From

Ferrara a short bus transfer will bring you to Adria, an ancient Greek port, famous for trading amber coming from the Baltic.8. Adria–Porto Viro–Chioggia (40 km). The boat will bring you to Porto Viro. You will be suspended between water and land, as you will pedal between the Po Delta and the mouth of the River Adige. You follow then the Po-Brondolo water-way, which links the river to the Venetian lagoon. You will stay overnight in Chiog-gia, known as “the little Venice”. 9. Chioggia–Venice (30 km). A visit to the fish market at dawn is an absolute “must”! The boat then brings you to the nature reserve of Ca’ Roman. Pedalling along the lagoon, you reach Pellestrina: from here, riding on the cycle path you reach the ferry landing stage. A short ferry-boat ride takes you to the Lido island, with a stop in Malamocco. After the final short ride you reach again the barge.10. Venice. In the morning a local guide will let you discover the magnificent centre of Venice. After that you have a lot of time to soak up its timeless beauty or explore its islands.11. Venice. After breakfast end of services. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Veneto (36), Venice–Porec (46).

ROUTE PROFILE

From Bolzano to Mantua you will ride on well-planned cycle lanes, part of which run along the Adige banks. Towards Lake Garda there is a bit more challeng-ing climb to face. From Mantua to Venice you will pedal along rivers and canals on tarmac cycle paths or roads with low traffic.

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

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

Ferrara

Chioggia

S.Benedetto Revere

ZeloMantova

Adria

Venezia

Treviso

Verona

Vicenza

Padova

Mincio Adige

Po

Po

Brenta

Delta del Po

MARE ADRIATICO

Lagunadi Venezia

ILago diGarda

Bolzano/Bozen

Trento

Rovereto

PeschieraDesenzano Mestre

Bolzano, Italy’s northern outpost townLake Garda, a natural heaven

Tortelli di zucca, dumplings filled with pumpkinGewürztraminer, white wine


NAVIGATIONThe programme has been planned to feature navigation along the Fissero/Bianco canal, which runs parallel to the Po and connects Mantua to the Adriatic Sea. Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays. These decisions are taken by the boat’s captain.

BIKE ROUTEThis cycling tour is largely along the flats of the Po plains, and the daily stages vary from 30 to 55 km – most-ly on tarmac cycle paths along rivers and canals, or quiet country roads. The boat is moored at night and

typically sets sail after breakfast, meeting up with the bikes in the afternoon. Some parts of the itinerary are undertaken by boat, to allow easier access onto cycling paths.

BICYCLESUnisex bikes with 27-gears Shimano Deore, fully equipped with 1 side-bag, 1 water bottle, 1 padlock, 1 map holder/front bag (only for Self-Guided) per bike and 1 repair kit per couple (only for Self-Guided). Because of high transportation costs of the bikes in Venice it is not advised to travel with own bikes.

GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED TOURThe detailed directions and maps supplied will let you cycle indepen-dently or in a group, following the Tour Leader. The section Bolzano–Mantua is only self-guided.

HOW TO REACH VENICE AND MANTUA:By PlaneBoth Venice and Mantua are well served by many airports of Northern Italy: Venice (VCE), Treviso (TSF), Verona (VRN), Bergamo (BGY), Milano Malpensa (MXP), Milano Linate (LIN)

By Railway and CarMantua is situated on the A22 Highway Brennero–Modena, only 50 km south of Verona. By train it is connected frequently to the railway station of Verona (journey: 45 min.) Venice is situated on the A4 highway and on one of the principal railway lines. The journey Venice–Mantua (or opposite) is covered by train in approx. 2,5 h.

USEFUL INFORMATION

PRICE PER PERSON GENERAL INFORMATIONS

VITA PUGNA

AVE MARIA

DEPARTURESVITA PUGNAfrom Mantua: 11.04, 25.04, 9.05, 23.05, 6.06, 20.06, 4.07, 18.07, 1.08, 15.08, 29.08, 12.09, 26.09, 10.10.2015from Venice: 18.04, 2.05, 16.05, 30.05, 13.06, 27.06, 11.07, 25.07, 8.08, 22.08, 5.09, 19.09, 3.10, 17.10.2015AVE MARIAfrom Mantua: 4.04, 18.04, 2.05, 16.05, 30.05, 13.06, 27.06, 11.07, 25.07, 8.08, 22.08, 5.09, 19.09, 3.10, 17.10.2015from Venice: 11.04, 25.04, 9.05, 23.05, 6.06, 20.06, 4.07, 18.07, 1.08, 15.08, 29.08, 12.09, 26.09, 10.10.2015

SEASONSValue: 4.04 - 25.04Standard: 2.05 - 22.08 and 10.10 - 17.10High: 29.08 - 3.10

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 overnights, full board (breakfast, dinner and a self-made packed lunch), accompanying Tour Leader on board and on bike, sheets and towels, route description and maps, bus transfer Ferrara–Adria/Ferrara–Zelo, harbour charges, coffee, tea and other hot drinks on board, mid-week cabin cleaning service and towel change, guided visit in Venice and Mantua, visit of a cheese factory with tasting of typical Grana Padano, visit of Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICEBeverages, museums, fees and extras in general, one ferry-boat stage in Pellestrina (about 9 €), everything not included in the section “included in the price”.

EXTRA NIGHTS (LOCAL TAXES TO BE PAID ON-SITE)In Mantua: 45/75 € 3* Hotel - DBL/SGL; 85/125 € 4* Hotel - DBL/SGLIn Mestre: 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel - DBL/SGLIn Venice: from 65/100 € 2/3* Hotels (Certosa Island) - DBL/SGL; from 90/150 € 3/4* Hotel - DBL/SGL

Webcode - from Mantua I09 I10

Webcode - von Venedig I11 I12

Standard cabin value season 840 € 990 €

SUPPLEMENTS

Standard season 150 € 200 €

High season 210 € 360 €

Superior cabin - 140 €

Single cabin 300 €

REDUCTIONS

Bunk bed cabin - 100 €

3rd adult in the cabin 250 €

CHILDREN REDUCTIONS*

0 - 2 years - -90%

3 - 5 years - -50%

6 - 8 years - -30%

BICYCLE RENT

Girolibero bike 70 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff 160 €

Helmet 15 €

SURCHARGES FOR THE FIRST 4 DAYS FROM BOLZANO TO MANTUA (only Self-Guided)

DEPARTURES FROM BOLZANO (Self-Guided tour) WE 22.04 - 30.09

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE3 nights hotel accommodation (in Bolzano, Trento, Peschiera/Desenzano), welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, detailed route description, 3-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICEBeverages, local hotel taxes (to be paid on spot), museums and extras in general, everything, which is not included in the section “included in the price”).

EXTRA NIGHTS IN BOLZANO 65/85 € 3/4* Hotel - DBL/SGL

3/4* Hotels, in DBL room 390 €

Single room supplement 90 €

High season supplement (July, August)

20 €



Reductions 3rd/4th adult in room

60 €

Special offers for groups wishing to charter the boat

* Discount only applying if child is occupying 3rd or 4th bed in the cabin. 4th bed only in the superior cabins available.

Italy


France

From Aigues-Mortes to AvignonDAY BY DAY 1. Aigues-Mortes. Individual arrival and boarding after 6 p.m. in Aigues-Mortes, medieval town, ancient military and commercial port on the Mediterranean.2. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (55 km). Going through small country lanes of Camargue between canals, lagoons and small villages you will reach in the afternoon the charming fishermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the beach.3. Aigues Mortes–Arles (25 km). You will sail for a couple of hours up to Saint Gilles and then cycle to today’s destina-tion: Arles, known for the richness of its antique and Roman patrimony. The city

fascinates you with its hidden treasures. Getting lost among its small alleys will be like entering a picture by Van Gogh. In the afternoon you will also have the opportunity to be welcome by a profes-sional guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town.4. Arles–Vallabreguès (60 km). This is a breathtaking stage, which brings you to the Alpilles, with the perched village of Les-Baux-de-Provence and then to Saint Rémy de Provence. A landscape of limestone cliffs and olive trees will accompany the trip. In the evening you will moor in Vallabrègues, pretty Proven-çal village on the banks of the Rhône.5. Vallabrègues–Aramon (35 km). Along country roads you will arrive to Barbentane with its castle at the conflu-ence of the Rhone and Durance rivers.

You will cycle to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigulet and after-wards down to the medieval village of Boulbon. In the afternoon navigation to Aramon for the overnight with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux. 6. Aramon–Avignon (40 km). The stage today will bring you to the best pre-served Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very spectacular work. Back to Aramon in the afternoon you will sail to Avignon, the city of the Popes. Your mooring place is in Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont St. Bénezet.7. Avignon, round tour (45 km). You cycle in the direction of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low-traffic roads sur-rounded by vineyards. In Châteauneuf- du-Pape you can enjoy a tasting of the very famous Provençal wine. After that

you will cross the Rhône at the height of Roquemaure and back through Ville-neuve-lès-Avignon following the course of the river.8. Avignon. After breakfast, end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.

| | | | 260 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Bike & Boat in FranceProvence–Camargue

F

Le Grau-du-Roi

Aigues-Mortes

Gallician Arles

Vallabrègues

AvignonAramon

Rhône Étang de Berre

Étang de Vaccarès

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

Grand

Lunel

Montpellier

St. Maries-de-la-Mer

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Barbentane

Boulbon

Les-Baux-de-Provence

Tarascon

Pont du Gard

Roquemaure

Villeneuve-lès-Avignon

Chateauneufdu-Pape

Petit

Rhône


France

From Avignon to Aigues-MortesDAY BY DAY

1. Avignon. Individual arrival and board-ing after 6 p.m. in Avignon. Your moor-ing place is in Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont St. Bénezet.2. Avignon, round tour (45 km). You cycle in the direction of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low-traffic roads surrounded by vineyards. In Châ-teauneuf- du-Pape you can enjoy a tasting of the very famous Provençal wine. After that you will cross the Rhône at the height of Roquemaure and cycle back through Villeneuve-lès-Avignon following the course of the river.3. Avignon–Aramon (40 km). In the morning navigation till the town of

Aramon, where you will start pedaling. The stage today will bring you to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very spectacu-lar work. Overnight in Aramon with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux. 4. Aramon-Vallabrègues (35 km). You start your day sailing to Vallabrègues, pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône. Along country roads you will arrive to Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhone and Du-rance rivers. You will cycle to the mag-nificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigu-let and afterwards down to the medieval village of Boulbon. Overnight in Vallabrègues. 5. Vallabreguès–Arles (60 km).This stage brings you to Saint Remy de Provence, birthplace of Nostradamus.

This village is also famous for having hosted Van Gogh in the days of his mental illness. In the end you move onto the Alpilles, with Les-Baux-de-Provence, a village lodged in the rock itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs and olive trees accompanies your journey.6. Arles–Aigues Mortes (25 km). Today the whole morning is dedicated to visit Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul with beautiful Roman ruins. You will also have the opportunity to be welcome by a professional guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town. After lunch you reach the lock of Saint Gilles and from there you will sail to Aigues Mortes for the overnight stay.7. Aigues-Mortes, round tour (55 km). Going through small country lanes of

Camargue between canals, lagoons and small villages you will reach in the afternoon the charming fishermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the beach.8. Aigues-Mortes. After breakfast, end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.

Pont du Gard, the highest Roman aqueductCamargue Park, with its horses, bulls and wilderness

Saucisson de taureau, typical salami of the CamargueBandol, rosé wine


PRICES PER PERSON GENERAL INFORMATIONS

L’ESTELLO SOLEO

DEPARTURESFROM AVIGNON18.04, 2.05, 16.05, 30.05, 13.06, 27.06, 11.07, 25.07, 8.08, 22.08, 5.09, 19.09, 3.10, 17.10.2015FROM AIGUES-MORTES25.04, 9.05, 23.05, 6.06, 20.06, 4.07, 18.07, 1.08, 15.08, 29.08, 12.09, 26.09, 10.10.2015

SEASONSValue: from April 18th to May 9th, from August 1st to August 22nd and from October 10th to October 17th 2015Standard: from May 16th to July 25th 2015High: from August 29th to October 3rd 2015

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

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

EXTRA NIGHTS In Avignon 60/90 € 2/3* Hotel – DBL/SGLIn Aigues-Mortes 65/100 € 2/3* Hotel – DBL/SGL

Webcode - from Avignon F24

Webcode - from Aigues-Mortes F30

Standard cabin value season 980 €

SUPPLEMENTS

Standard season 100 €

High season 150 €

Single cabin 300 €

BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

Special offers for groups wishing to charter the boat

NAVIGATION ON RIVERS AND CANALSIssues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles can modify some of the daily stretches or embarkation points. These decisions are taken by the boat’s captain. It is envisaged that the boat will sail some of the way during breakfast or the evening meal to make getting out of the towns easier or to shorten the stages.

BIKE ROUTERoute on bike paths and low traffic roads in rural and city areas. Short stretches are on unpaved roads and few on unavoidable busy roads.

BICYCLEDifferent frame sizes of unisex bikes with 27-gears Shimano Deore will be available on board. They are fully equipped with 1 side-bag, 1 water bottle, 1 padlock, 1 map holder/front bag (only for Self-Guided) per bike and 1 repair kit per couple (only for Self-Guided). Due to a limited space on board only a few own bikes will be accepted upon request.

EMERGENCY VAN & TRANSFERSA minivan is available on the area for emergencies. The same van offers alternative excursions for those customers who don’t want to cycle on some days or can organize transfers to shorten the longest stages. These extra services are not included and must be paid on site. Programs and prices are available on board.

SELF-GUIDED AND GUIDED TOURThis tour offers the chance to choose if pedalling alone (taking advantage of a very detailed route description) or with the whole group, following the tour leader. When booking the tour you need to specify which option is chosen (i.e. if Guided or Self-Guided).

HOW TO REACH AVIGNON AND AIGUES-MORTES BY PLANE Both Avignon and Aigues-Mortes are well served by some airports: Montpellier Mediterranée (MPL), Marseille Provence (MRS), Nîmes Garons (FNI), Lyon Saint Exupéry (LYS), Avignon Caumont (AVN).

USEFUL INFORMATION

France

BIKE & HOTEL

The cycling holiday accommodated at carefully selected hotels: just enjoy your day in the Great Outdoors, in the knowledge that your accommodation is all arranged and that a welcoming room awaits at the other end.Your luggage is transferred for you every morning to your next hotel, and you can cycle as light as air and carefree.Maps and detailed directions will lead you to your destination (if you’re self-guided); otherwise, if you’re travelling in a group tour, simply follow your tour leader.


DAY BY DAY 1. Vicenza. Individual arrival. A nice and cosy historical city centre characterized by the buildings of the famous architect Andrea Palladio (16th century).2. Vicenza–Bassano del Grappa (40 km). From Vicenza you cycle towards Marostica, famous for its castle and the chessboard in the main square. The last stop is Bassano del Grappa with its covered wooden bridge and the “grappa”.3. Bassano del Grappa–Treviso (65/40 km). You enter Asolo, which presents us the only real uphill section of our ride. The downhill run takes you to the land of Prosecco vineyards and on to Maser. Possibility to shorten the stage of 25 km by taking the train from Monte-belluna to Treviso.4. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km). Leaving Treviso behind you, follow the course of the River Sile up to Casale. At the end of the trip Venice awaits you for an evening among canals and narrow streets. Accommodation in Mestre; a supplement applies for lodging in Venice.

5. Mestre/Venice–Chioggia (1st cycling day for those starting in Mestre) (35 km). Leaving Mestre this mor ning, you head into Venice pedalling on the 4 km bridge “della Libertà”, then to Tronchetto harbour. From here you take a ferry along the canal Giudecca to Lido. This is the most exciting day, pedalling on two narrow islands that divide the sea from the lagoon: Mala-mocco and the island of Pellestrina.6. Chioggia–Padova (60 km). You will be pedalling along the two rivers that carried trade in and out of Venice in this area centuries ago: Bacchiglione and Brenta. You continue on to Strà, famous for the majestic Villa Pisani. On arrival in Padova, you will fi nd the great basilica dedicated to St. Anthony, the historic Caffè Pedrocchi and Prato della Valle. 7. Padova–Vicenza (50 km). The Bac-chiglione River points the way out of the the city and you reach Costozza, a little town at the foot of the Berici hills. The bike path passes in front of Villa Ro-tonda, the most famous of the Palladian

villas. Just before entering Vicenza you see the Villa Valmarana ai Nani with its marvellous frescoes by Tiepolo.8. Vicenza. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Bike&Boat (pp. 28-29).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 270/295 km- Total vertical up: 530 m- Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3.

The itinerary is completely in the low-lands except for the 1 km slope in Asolo. You ride on secondary streets with low traffi c or paved bike paths.

BY PLANE

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

Italy

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

VenetoVenice Lands

ACCOMPANYING MATERIALFor this tour you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide- Maps- Roadbook

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PeschieraLaguna

di Venezia

Verona

MARE ADRIATICO

Mestre

Vicenza

Padova

Treviso

Venezia

Chioggia

Lago diGarda

Bassano del Grappa

Ferrara

Po

Adige

Montebelluna

Stra

Marostica Asolo

Brenta Sile

Piave

Bacchiglione

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Italy

SHORT BREAK

| | 135 km | 5 Days |

DAY BY DAY1. Mestre. Arrival. 2. Mestre/Venice–Chioggia. You will cycle to Tronchetto harbour. From here you take a ferry to Lido. You pedal on the islands Malamocco and Pell-estrina. Overnight in Chioggia. 3. Chioggia–Padova. You will reach the majestic Villa Pisani in Strà. On arrival in Padova, don’t miss the historical centre. 4. Padova–Mestre. You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the villas of the ancient Venetian nobility. 5. Mestre. Departure.

PRICE PER PERSON415 € DBL 110 € SGL supplement 20 € season 2 supplement (30.05 - 13.09)

BICYCLE RENT45 € Girolibero bike 105 € Electro-bike

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE4 nights in Cat. A, 4 breakfast buffets, welcome briefing, luggage transportation, route description and maps, Hotline service.

DEPARTURES 2015TU, WE 5.05 - 23.09


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A Cat. B Cat. A+ DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA, SU from Vicenza (Cat. A, B, A+) TU, WE from Mestre (Cat. A, B) 28.03 - 24.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 28.03 - 29.05 and 14.09 - 24.10 Season 2: 30.05 - 13.09

GUIDED TOUR 23.05, 30.05, 04.07. 29.08, 26.09. Minimum of participants: 8 persons

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, ticket for ferry transfer (bike not included, approx. 4 €) on day 5 valid only Cat. A/A+, entrance into Villa Valmarana ai Nani, ice-cream in the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza.

Guided tour includes also: Cat. A Hotel accommodation, 7 dinners (3-course meal, 1 dinner in Venice), guide on bike, support van in the area, Guided tour of Ven-ice, visits and wine tasting.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €). Only for cat. B ferry-boat transfers on day 5 (altogether about 25 € per person + bike).

Webcode I03

Season 1 655 € 498 € 1290 €

Season 2 700 € 563 € 1290 €

Supplement SGL 198 € 145 € 280 €

Half Board ¹ 170 € 140 € -

GUIDED TOUR

Webcode I03G

Basic price 955 € - -

Supplement SGL 198 € - -

BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A Cat. B Cat. A+

Vicenza/Treviso DBL/SGL from 55/85 € from 40/65 € on request

Mestre DBL/SGL from 65/85 € from 55/65 € -

Venice ² DBL/SGL from 90/150 € on request

REDUCTIONS (3rd/4th person in room)

Adults 130 € 100 € -

Children 0 - 2 years 90% 90% -

3 - 5 years 50% 50% -

6 - 8 years 30% 30% -

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* Hotels. Cat. B mainly 3* Hotels, with some 2* Hotels and one 4* Hotel. Cat. A+ only 4* and luxury hotels (night in Venice - 3* Hotel -instead of Mestre Venice is included).¹ 6 dinners included, beverages not included (3-course meal); ² on request night in Venice instead of Mestre (for departure from Mestre only possible as last night of the tour with delivery of the bikes in Mestre).

Palladian villas in Vicenza and TrevisoBotanical Garden of Padova, an Unesco sitePolenta and baccalà (polenta and stockfish)

Cabernet, red wine

Webcode I16


DAY BY DAY 1. Bolzano. Arrival. Bolzano is a famous commercial and tourist centre and also a historical and cultural connection be-tween the Italian and the German world.2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km). Today you will ride mostly along the Adige River, through orchards and vine-yards passing the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. The dam pathways lead then to Trento. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way. 3. Trento–Peschiera/Desenzano (50 km by bike + ferry). Always pedalling along the Adige you reach Rovereto and Mori. From here westwards towards Lake Garda. After a short ascent, a refreshing descent will follow and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake.

4. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona (60/35 km). Today you head to Verona. With the Adige crossing it, this is one of the most important and beautiful cities in the Veneto region. Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House. 5. Verona–Vicenza (75/40 km). At fi rst, the route starts out fl at and then heads through the Monti Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza, with a wonderful view of the city. The old city centre is characterized by the beautiful private palaces and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th century archi-tect known all over the world. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.6. Vicenza–Padova (50 km). Cycling out of Vicenza you will come across the beautiful Palladian Villa Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, the route will continue to the fascinating city of Pa-

dova with its famous Giotto’s Chapel and one of the biggest squares of Europe “Prato della Valle”. 7. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km). The tour continues easily through the fl at Veneto. You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the coun-tryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcontenta, Villa Widmann) until you reach Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can choose to stay directly in Venice with a price supplement.8. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast. Transfer back to Bolzano on request when booking the tour.Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 28-29), Venice–Porec (p. 46).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 280/345 km- Total vertical up: 1,270/1,450 m- Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2 and 5.

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

PARKING

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

BY PLANE


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

Bolzano–Verona–VeniceAcross Lake Garda and through Verona

Italy


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Lagodi Garda

MAREADRIATICO

Lagodi Caldaro

Adig

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Adige

Bolzano/Bozen

Trento

Rovereto

Salorno/Salurn

Rivadel Garda

Peschiera

Verona

San Bonifacio

SoaveDesenzano

Vicenza

Abano

Mestre

Venezia

Chioggia

Bassano

Treviso

Padova

Brenta

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SHORT BREAK

| | 150 km | 5 Days |

DAY BY DAY1. Bolzano. Arrival. 2. Bolzano–Trento. Today you will ride through vineyards and tiny beautiful villages. The dam pathways lead then to Trento.3. Trento–Peschiera/Desen-zano. Pedalling along the Adige you reach Lake Garda. A ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake.4. Peschiera/Desenzano– Verona. Today you head to Verona, one of the most beauti-ful cities in Veneto region.5. Verona. Departure.

PRICE PER PERSON475 € DBL 110 € SGL supplement 25 € season 2 supplement (27.06 - 6.09)

BICYCLE RENT45 € Girolibero bike 105 € Electro-bike

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE4 nights in Cat. A, 4 breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route description and maps, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, Hotline service

DEPARTURES 2015SA, SU, TU 16.05 - 8.09

Italy


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A Cat. B DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA, SU 28.03 - 17.10 TU, WE 19.05 - 9.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 28.03 - 19.04 and 28.09 - 17.10 Season 2: 20.04 - 26.06 and 7.09 - 27.09 Season 3: 27.06 - 6.09

GUIDED TOUR 25.04, 9.05, 20.06, 11.07, 19.09. Minimum of participants: 8 persons.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, lug-gage transportation, Girolibero Greens Cycling Guide, route descriptions & maps, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, 7-days Hotline service, entrance into Villa Valmarana ai Nani, ice-cream in the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza.

Guided tour includes also: Cat. A Hotel accommodation, 7 dinners (3-course meals, 1 in Venice), guide on bike, support van in the area, wine tast-ing, guided visits of Verona and Venice.

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

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 60 € Mestre–Bolzano (bike included). Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days on request). Also possible on Tuesday and Wednesday from 26.05 to 16.09.15.

Webcode I01

Season 1 690 € 590 €

Season 2 728 € 628 €

Season 3 768 € 658 €

Supplement SGL 198 € 145 €

Half Board ¹ 170 € -

GUIDED TOUR

Webcode I01G

Basic price 995 € -

Supplement SGL 198 € -

BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A Cat. B

Bolzano DBL/SGL 65/85 €

Mestre DBL/SGL 65/85 € 55/65 €

Venice ² DBL/SGL from 90/150 €


Adults 130 € 100 €

Children 0 - 2 years 90%

3 - 5 years 50%

6 - 8 years 30%

Cat.A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels. Cat. B mainly 3* hotels, with some 2* hotels. ¹ 6 dinners included, beverages not included (3-course meal); ² on request night in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

Verona and the ArenaDolomites and the iconic pink peaks, a world natural heritage

Olive oil from Garda lakeRecioto, dessert red wine

Webcode I18


DAY BY DAY VARIATION 1

1. Bolzano. Arrival.2. Resiapass–Silandro (50 km). We will drive you to Resia up to 1500 metres of height, where your cycling tour starts. The majestic cycle lane will take you past the lake Resia and the closter of Montemaria near Silandro.3. Silandro–Merano (40 km). The tour continues along the Adige, passing through orchards and nice landmarks like the imposing Castle Dornsberg. You arrive in the beautiful city of Merano.4. Merano–Bolzano (35 Km). Still cycling along the cycle lane you reach little towns like Nalles and Andriano and your destination, Bolzano. Take your time for a walk around the capital of the South Tyrol.5. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 Km). Cycling along the lane you follow the Adige beside apple orchards, vineyards and

through the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. Along the river banks you ride towards Trento. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.6. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). You’ll reach the Lake Garda. Before leaving for Riva, don’t miss the sight of the lake from above! The ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake. The boat excursion alone makes the whole trip worthwhile. 7. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona(60/35 km). Today you head to Verona, one of the most important and beautiful cities of Italy. 8. Verona. Departure after breakfast.

VARIATION 2

7. Desenzano/Peschiera–Mantua (70/45 km). Today you will follow one of the most famous Italian cycle paths, passing through the villages of Borghet-to and Valeggio sul Mincio. The trip ends in Mantua, wonderful art city.8. Mantua. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Mantua–Venice/Venice–Mantua (pp. 28-29), Veneto (p. 36).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 275/315 km- Total vertical up: 830/1,040 m- Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: every day except day 7.

Mainly along fl at roads with only a few rolling parts. The region of South Tyrol is provided with an excellently-built cycle-lanes system. You can ride almost exclusively on well-planned, traffi c-free cycle lanes, part of which run along the Adige banks.Towards Lake Garda there is a bit more challenging climb to face.

PARKING


BY PLANE

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

ETSCHRADWEG

Vicenza

Padova

Chioggia

Trento

Rovereto

Adige

Mincio

Brenta

Po

Lago di Caldaro

Peschieradel Garda

Desenzano

Lago diGarda

Riva del Garda

Passo Resia/Reschenpass

Bolzano/Bozen

Mantova

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Verona

Treviso

Venezia MAR ADRIATICO

Merano/Meran

Silandro/Schlanders

Italy

| | | 275 km | 8 Days/7 Nights

Adige Cycle RouteFrom Resiapass to Verona/Mantua

ACCOMPANYING MATERIALFor the short break tour from Resiapass to Bolzano you will receive the complete set of Greens guides: - Cycling Guide- Maps- Roadbook

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How every meter brings you

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ROADBOOK

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Street map of Bolzano, Silandro, Merano and cycle maps

MAPS

From Passo Resiato BolzanoFor the short break tour

Bolzano you will receive

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Street map of Bolzano, Silandro, Merano and cycle maps


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CYCLING GUIDE

From Passo Resia

to Bolzano



SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.05 - 19.09 SU 28.06 - 23.08 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage trans-portation, transfer from Bolzano to Resiapass, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

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

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 60 € Mantua/Verona–Bolzano (bike included, min. 4 persons). Available on Saturday (other days only on request).

Variation 1 2

Webcode I15 I02

Season 1 682 €

Season 2 722 €

Supplement SGL 198 €

BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

Bolzano DBL/SGL 65/85 €

Verona DBL/SGL 65/85 €

Mantua DBL/SGL 45/75 €


Adults 130 €

Children 0 - 2 years 90%

3 - 5 years 50%

6 - 8 years 30%

Cat. A 3/4* hotels with a cozy and typical guesthouse in Silandro.

Italy

SHORT BREAK

| | 115 km | 5 Days

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

PRICE PER PERSON415 € DBL110 € SGL supplement30 € season 2 supplement (27.06 - 4.09)

BICYCLE RENT45 € Girolibero bike105 € Electro-bike

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE4 nights in Cat. A, 4 breakfast buffets, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route descrip-tion and maps, Hotline service.

DEPARTURES 2015 SA 9.05 - 19.09 SU 28.06 - 23.08

Resia and its old campanile in the lakeAdige River, the second longest river of Italy

Speck, smoked pork from South TyrolMüller Thurgau, white wine

Webcode I30


DAY BY DAY VARIATION 1

1. Innsbruck. Arrival.2. Innsbruck–Bressanone (55 km by bike + 40 km transfer). A private transfer will take you to Brennero, where you’ll start cycling into the green Isarco valley. Your cycling day continues without difficulties through nice villages and green meadows till Fortezza, where you will see the ancient fort. Lake Varna awaits you for a relaxing break before you reach Bressanone.3. Bressanone–Bolzano (45 km). Continue along the same cycle path, with few kms today: you’ll have the opportunity to visit the huge Sabiona medieval monastery, built on a rocky-hill and dominating the Isarco-valley. Over-night in Bolzano.4. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km). You will ride along the Adige River, through orchards and vineyards, passing the villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. The dam pathways lead then to Trento.5. Trento–Desenzano/Peschiera (50 km by bike + ferry). Always pedalling along the Adige you reach Rovereto and Mori. After a short ascent, a refreshing descent will follow and lead you to Torbole and to Riva. The ferry cruise takes you to the southern part of the lake.6. Desenzano/Peschiera–Verona (60/35 km). Today you head to Verona. Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House.7. Verona. Departure.

VARIATION 2

7. Verona–Vicenza (75/40 km). At first, the route starts out flat and then heads through the Monti Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza. The old city centre is characterized by the beautiful private palaces and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th century architect known all over the world. The ones who consider this stage too long can take a train from several railway stations.

8. Vicenza–Padova (50 km). Cycling out of Vicenza you will come across the beautiful Palladian Villa Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, the route will continue to the fascinating city of Padova with its famous Giotto’s Chapel and one of the biggest squares of Europe “Prato della Valle”.9. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km). You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcontenta, Villa Widmann) until you reach Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can choose to stay directly in Venice with a price supplement.10. Mestre/Venice. Departure.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 255/390 km- Total vertical up: 1,860/2,410 m- Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3, 4 and 7.

The itinerary is mainly on one of the most beautiful cycle path in Italy. Con-tinuing from Lake Garda to Venice the itinerary is developed riding on second-ary streets with low traffic.

BY PLANE

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

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

Innsbruck–Verona/VeniceFrom the mountains to the sea

Italy

PRICE PER PERSON GENERAL INFO

SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR TH, FR 7.05 - 25.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6/9 nights hotel accom-modation, breakfast buffet, welcome brief-ing in English, luggage transportation, transfer from Innsbruck to Bren-nero, route descriptions & maps, 4-hours ferry cruise through Lake Garda, 7/10-days Hotline service.

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

Variation 1 2

Webcode I32 I27

Season 1 635 € 930 €

Season 2 675 € 995 €


BICYCLE RENT

Girolibero bike 70 € 95 €

Electro-bike Kalkhoff 135 € 215 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

Innsbruck DBL/SGL 65/85 €

Verona DBL/SGL 65/85 €

Mestre DBL/SGL 65/85 €

Venice ¹ DBL/SGL from 90/150 €

REDUCTIONS (3rd person in room)

110 € 170 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels. ¹ on request night in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

I

CH

A

Lagodi Garda

MAREADRIATICO

Lagodi Caldaro

Adig

e

Adig

e

Min

cio

Isarco

Innsbruck

Trento

Bolzano/Bozen

Rovereto

Salorno/Salurn

Riva del Garda

Peschiera

Verona

San Bonifacio

SoaveDesenzano

Vicenza

Abano

Mestre

Venezia

Brennero/Brenner

BassanoTreviso

Padova

Brenta

Bressanone/Brixen

Vipiteno/Sterzing

Innsbruck city centre and the “Golden Roof ”Tyrol mountains and meadows

Sarde in saor, fresh sardines and onions from Adriatic SeaSilvaner, white wine


Italy


Lake Garda–VeniceHighlights of Veneto

DAY BY DAY

1. Peschiera/Desenzano. Arrival.2. Peschiera/Desenzano–Verona (35/60 km). Today you head to Verona. With the Adige crossing it, this is one of the most important and beautiful cities in the Veneto region. Worth visiting are: the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House.3. Verona-Ilasi/Soave (30/40 km). The stage is flat and relaxing, crossing beautiful vineyards and the countryside. Your cycle route will join the “Strada del Vino” (wine road) that leads to Illasi/Soave, a very famous area full of vine-yards and nice medieval sights.4. Illasi/Soave–Vicenza (50/40 km). At first, the route starts out flat and then heads through the Colli Berici, a hilly region just south of Vicenza, with a wonderful view of the city. The old city centre is characterized by the beautiful private palaces and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th cen-tury architect known all over the world.5. Vicenza–Padova (50 km).Cycling out of Vicenza you will come across the beautiful Palladian Villa Rotonda. Along the Bacchiglione river, the route will continue to the fascinating city of Padova with its famous Giotto’s Chapel and one of the biggest squares of Europe “Prato della Valle”.6. Padova–Mestre/Venice (40 km).The tour continues easily through the flat Veneto. You will cycle along the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Malcontenta, Villa Wid-mann) until you reach Mestre, Venice’s mainland. You can choose to stay di-rectly in Venice with a price supplement.7. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 205/ 230 km- Total vertical up: 650/800 m- Terrain: 95 % asphalt, 5 % unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 5, 6- Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train: day 4

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

BY PLANE

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

Lagodi Garda

MAREADRIATICO

Adige

Peschiera

Verona SoaveIllasi

San Bonifacio

Desenzano

VicenzaMestre

Venezia

Treviso

PadovaBrenta

I


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A Cat. B DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR MO, TU 20.04 - 22.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommoda-tion, breakfast buffet, lug-gage transportation, route description & maps, 7-day service hotline.

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

Webcode I33

Season 1 625 € 525 €

Season 2 655 € 555 €


BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €


Peschiera/Desenzano

DBL SGL

from 55 € from 80 €

MestreDBL SGL

65 €85 €

55 €65 €

Venice 1DBL SGL


REDUCTIONS(3rd/4th person in room)

130 € 100 €

Cat. A mainly 3* hotels with some 4* hotels; Cat. B mainly 3* hotels, with some 2* hotels. 1 on request night in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

The countryside villas of the ancient venetian nobilityVineyards of Verona and Soave

Risotto, a creamy rice dish Gambellara, white wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival. The bi lingual capital city of South Tyrol is a renowned com-mercial and tourist centre which has a rich history. Today Italian and German cultures and ways of life join together. The historical centre of Bolzano is enchantingly beautiful. 2. Bolzano–Trento (65/70 km). Your cycling tour starts with a ride along the banks of the Adige river, past fruit orchards, vineyards and through the town of Ora, Egna and Salorno. Along the embankments you ride towards Trento with its wonderful frescoed buildings. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train sta-tions along the way.3. Trento–Bassano del Grappa (20/35 km by train + 75/60 km by bike). The whole stage schedules 95 km altogether. We suggest anyway to shorten it of minimum 20 km by taking a train from Trento to the lakes area, avoiding in this way the only uphill section of the stage. Starting from the spring of the lakes Caldonazzo and Levico, you will follow the river Brenta across its beautiful valley up to Bassano del Grappa, which offers you its famous wooden-roofed bridge and a wonderful historical centre. Possibility to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way.4. Bassano–Vicenza (40 km). After a few kilometres from Bassano you reach the little fortified town of Marostica, which is famous for its castle “Castello da Bassano” and the stone chessboard on its main square. At the end of this stage Vicenza awaits you: this is the famous city of the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, who built plenty of extraordinary buildings around here. 5. Vicenza–Padova (50 km). You leave Vicenza and ride past the splendid “Villa Rotonda” by Palladio. Through the village of Costozza and then cycling along the river Bacchiglione you arrive at the ancient university city of Padova. Here you will be astonished by the exceptional abundance of architectural masterpieces and art treasures.

6. Padova–Chioggia (60 km). From Padova you cycle along canals. The rivers Bacchiglione and Brenta, which were once important commercial waterways, accompany you to the picturesque fishing village Chioggia, in the Venetian lagoon.7. Chioggia–Mestre (35 km). Across the islands of Pellestrina and Lido, which separate the open sea from the Venetian lagoon, you reach the stately, beautiful Venice. After a nice long stroll in the city’s fascinating maze of lanes and bridges you will reach Mestre by train. 8. Mestre. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 28-29), Venice–Porec (p. 46).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 310/350 km- Total vertical up: 410/1,010 m- Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2 and day 3.

It is generally an easy route that runs on quiet sideroads and secure cycle lanes. Some hilly sections on day 2 and day 3.

PARKING

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

BY PLANE



Bolzano–Bassano–VeniceAcross the beautiful Brenta Valley


SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Cat. A Cat. B DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 9.05 - 12.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome brief-ing in English, luggage trans-portation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €). Train journey from Trento to Lake area (approx. 40 minutes, 6 € per person) on day 3. Ferry-boat transfers on day 7 (altogehter about 25 € per person). Train journey from Venice to Mes-tre on day 7 (approx. 15 minutes, 2,5 € per person)

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour: 60 € Mestre-Bolzano (bike included). Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

Webcode I13

Season 1 710 € 628 €

Season 2 750 € 668 €


BICYCLE RENT


Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet 15 €


BolzanoDBLSGL

65 € 85 €

MestreDBLSGL

65 €85 €

55 €65 €

VeniceDBLSGL



130 € 100 €

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels; Cat. B mainly 3* hotels, with some 2* hotels.

I

Lagodi Caldaro

Adig

e

Bolzano/Bozen

Trento

VeronaMestre

Bassano del Grappa

Chioggia

Venezia

Treviso

Laghidi Caldonazzo

e Levico

Lago di Garda

Brenta

Adige

Bacchiglione

Sile

Levico

BorgoValsugana

Vicenza

Padova

Salorno/Salurn

MAREADRIATICO

Bassano and the famous wooden bridgeThe Venetian lagoon and its birdlife

Sopressa, typical salami of Veneto regionGrappa, the King of Italian spirits


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival.2. Bolzano–Brunico–Dobbiaco (30 km). In the morning a private transfer brings you to Brunico, a lively town with a historical centre and rural surround-ings. The route is on a slightly uphill bicycle path along the river Rienz, that leads to Dobbiaco, close to the Austrian border.3. Dobbiaco–Cortina (35 km). Leaving Dobbiaco you take the cycle path along the Landro valley from where you admire the famous Three Peaks of Lavaredo. Going downhill and southwards you reach Cortina d’Ampezzo. Cortina is a famous Ski and Mountainsport Resort, with a very elegant and lively centre, where you can go shopping.4. Cortina–Belluno (40 km by bike + 40 km by train). Today you pedal slightly downhill along the old railway route until you reach San Vito and then Calalzo. The landscape is very relaxing here: you cycle through the Cadore woods, then stop in the small village of Pieve, where you can see the birth house of the painter Titian. Train transfer from Calalzo to Belluno (not included in price).5. Belluno–Valdobbiadene (60 km). From Belluno you pedal along a slightly hilly Toscana-like landscape. You reach then Valdobbiadene, in the heart of the famous land of Prosecco, with its more than 4500 mq of vineyards. If you like to go for a wine tasting, today is your day!6. Valdobbiadene–Treviso (65 km). From Valdobbiadene you cycle south-wards until you cross the Piave river and enter the Po valley. You’ll cycle next to one of the most important Palladian Villas, the Villa Barbaro in Maser. From here on to Treviso, a city surrounded by water, situated at the confluence of the Sile and Botteniga rivers.7. Treviso–Mestre/Venice (45 km). Leaving Treviso behind you, follow the course of the river Sile up to Casale. Here you’ll be surprised by the “Cimitero dei Burci”, a “graveyard” of old cargo boats, abandoned along the river since the Sixties, to protest against the rise of

wheel transport. At the end of the trip Venice awaits you for an evening among canals and narrow streets. Accommoda-tion in Mestre; a supplement applies for lodging in Venice.8. Mestre/Venice. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 28-29), Venice–Porec (p. 46).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 275 km- Total vertical up: 2,010 m- Terrain: 87% asphalt, 13% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2 and day 7- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, day 5 and day 6.

You will ride on back-roads with low traffic or for short stretches on unpaved paths in good condition. Mostly in the lowlands with some hilly sections.

PARKING

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

BY PLANE



Bolzano–Cortina–VeniceFrom the Dolomites to the Adriatic Sea


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SU 3.05 - 19.07 and 23.08 - 27.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 3.05 - 27.06 and 7.09 -27.09 Season 2: 28.06 - 19.07 and 23.08 - 6.09

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, private transfer Bolzano–Brunico, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €). Train transfer from Calalzo to Belluno (approx. 50 min, 8 € per person).

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 60 € Mestre-Bolzano (bike included). Available on Saturday and Sunday (other days only on request).

Webcode I14

Season 1 655 €

Season 2 700 €


BICYCLE RENT


Electro-bike Kalkhoff

160 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

BolzanoDBLSGL

65 € 85 €

MestreDBLSGL

65 € 85 €

Venice ¹DBLSGL



90 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels. ¹ on request night in Venice instead of Mestre with delivery of the bikes in Mestre.

I

MAREADRIATICO

Bolzano/Bozen

Lago di Garda

Brunico/BruneckDobbiaco/Toblach

Cortinad’Ampezzo

Belluno

Valdobbiadene

Treviso

Venezia

Calalzo

Mestre

Asolo

Adig

e

Adige

Brenta

Piave

Sile

Verona

Cortina, the famous elegant mountain resortDolomites and the Three Peaks of Lavaredo

Cheeses of the mountainsProsecco, white wine


DAY BY DAY 1. Mestre/Venice. Individual arrival in Mestre (the mainland of Venice). The city of Venice will captivate you with its splendour, acknowledged worldwide.2. Mestre–Jesolo/Caorle/seacoast (40/65 km). After a few kilometres by bike, you take the ferry and then the vaporetto, passing in front of Piazza San Marco. Then you will reach Punta Sab-bioni, the furthest south area of the Adriatic coast, which is north of Venice. From here you cycle along the stunning seacoast, with various opportunities for a refreshing bath in the sea. The over-night will be in one of the places along this famous coastline.3. Jesolo/Caorle/seacoast–Portogrua-ro (65/40 km). Leaving the sea behind you, you will head north towards the Julian Alps, leaving the sea behind you. You will be passing through an area with a multitude of “Valli da pesca” (stretches of lagoon enclosed by earthen dikes

where extensive fi sh farming is prac-tised) and “casoni” (constructions used by fi shermen in the past during the fi shing season). Afterwards you will go to the town of Portogruaro, one of the main centres in the period of the “Serenissima Republic of Venice”, which is still impres-sive even today with its glorious “Palaz-zi” or “palaces”.4. Portogruaro–Palmanova/Aquileia (60/70 km). The trip can be shortened of 20 km by taking a train from Portogruaro to Latisana. You will spend the day between the region of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, passing through an area abundant in water and history, among rivers, canals and ancient Roman towns. Your destination will be Aquileia, with its Roman excavations, or Palmanova, named “the starry city” because from above the town resembles a 9-pointed star.5. Palmanova/Aquileia–Trieste (70/50 km). The trip can be shortened of 30 km

by taking a train at the end of the stage from Monfalcone to Trieste. You will once again head towards the sea: the gulf of Trieste awaits you, with many possible stops along the way, such as Duino with its two castles, Sistiana with its characteristic bay and Miramare with its famous white castle built ac-cording to the wishes of Maximilan of Augsburg, situated in a beautiful park of more than 20 hectares in size. Just a few kilometres lie between you and Trieste, the ancient port of the Asburgic Empire, which has much to offer as regards attractions and history.6. Trieste–Portorož (45 km). After a few kilometres you will cross over into Slovenia, often cycling along cycle paths through famous holiday resorts such as Koper, fi rst for a long period a Venetian and then Austrian town, and Piran, another important town which was ruled over for a long time by Venice. You then fi nally arrive in Portorož, a town re-nowned for its spa and bathing facilities.

7. Portorož–Porec (55 km). Cycling southwards, you will pass through the salt mines of Secovlje, a large Slovenian town with a humid environment, which is a key area as regards ornithology. Some kms later you will cross the Croatian border down along Istria, the Adriatic sea’s largest peninsula. In the end you will reach Porec, the tourism capital of Croatia, with its Eufrasian Basilica, which was declared Patrimony of Hu-manity by UNESCO in 1997. 8. Porec. After breakfast, end of ser-vices. Return to Venice by boat (option).Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with following tours: Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 28-29) or Bolza-no–Verona–Venice (p. 38).


Venice–PorecThe lands of the ancient Republic of Venice

Italy-Slovenia-Croatia

HR

ISLO

MAR ADRIATICO

PiaveTagliam

ento

Isonzo

Golfo di Trieste

Lagunadi VeneziaMestre

Venezia

Portogruaro

Caorle

Aquileia

Trieste

Portorož

Poreč

Jesolo

Piran

Buje

Treviso

Palmanova

Grado

MonfalconeLatisana

Marano Lagunare


GIROLIBERO GREENS

From Veniceto Porec

G

I RO L I B

ERO··

··

·G

R E E N S · ··

··



ROADBOOK

From Veniceto Porec

B

ERO

S · ··

··



ROADBOOK

From Veniceto Porec

GI R

O L I B E

RO

··

··

·

GR E E N S

··

··

·

Street maps of Mestre, Venice, Lido di Jesolo, Caorle, Portogruaro, Palmanova, Aquileia, Grado, Trieste, Piran, Portorož, Porec and cycle maps

MAPS

From Veniceto Porec

GI R

O L I B E

RO

··

··

·

GR E E N S

··

··

·

Street maps of Mestre, Venice, Lido di Jesolo, Caorle, Portogruaro, Palmanova, Aquileia, Grado, Trieste, Piran, Portorož, Porec and cycle maps

From Venice

to Porec

GIR

OL I B E R

O

··

·· · G R E E N

S·

··

··


useful information

CYCLING GUIDE


Italy-Slovenia-Croatia

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 320/340 km- Total vertical up: 1,390 m- Terrain: 92% asphalt, 8% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: NO- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 4 and 5.

You will ride the first three stages along flat roads, across the Veneto and Friuli plain, and the last three on slightly hillier sections.

PARKING

In Mestre: Information on requestThe railway parking place is always a good alternative (about 60 € per week, reservation not possible).

BY PLANE

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


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 11.04 - 18.07 and 22.08 - 3.10 FR 29.05 - 10.07 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Saison 1: 11.04 - 5.06 and 13.09 - 3.10 Saison 2: 6.06 - 18.07 and 22.08 - 12.09

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, ferry transfer on day 2 (bike not included, approx. 4 €). Except departure of 18.07, when the ferry boat transfer will be replaced by a private transfer.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €). Train transfers: Portogruaro–Latisana (approx. 10 min, 6 € per person); Monfalcone–Trieste (approx. 25 min, 7 € per person).

FERRY BOAT TRANSFER To be confirmed when booking the tour: Istria-Venice by boat (boarding time between 6 am and 7 am and de-parture of the boat around 8 am, duration approx. 150 min). Price 60-65 € per person (+ 10 € for own bikes), depending on the season. Dates and prices will be communicated at the beginning of 2015. If the ferry boat is not available the service will be replaced by a private transfer. The booking (complete with full names, passport number, nationality, date of birth) is compulsory when sending the reservation. Transfer from Venice Terminal San Basilio (arrival point from Porec / Piran) to hotel/railway station in Mestre, price 80 € 1-2 persons, 160 € 3-4 persons, bike included. The transfer is only available (and also strongly recommended) for clients with own bikes.

Webcode I04

Season 1 639 €

Saison 2 699 €


BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

MestreDBLSGL

65 €85 €

PorecDBLSGL

65 €85 €

VeniceDBLSGL

from 90 €from 150 €


100 €

Cat. A 3* Hotels (sometimes a few 4* Hotels).

Aquileia and the Roman excavationsThe Istrian coast and its beaches

Fresh mussels, taste them in a variety of dishesRefosco, red wine

!

!

!

!

!

IT SI

HR

AT

Venezia

Mare Adriatico

Ravenna

KoperCapodistria

Trieste

Kranjska Gora

AdriabikeThe Northern Adriatic cycle routeKranjska Gora, Koper, Trieste, Venezia, Ravenna

A 1000 km long cycle path connecting the Alps and Northwestern Slovenia’s lakes with the Adriatic beaches and lagoons.A journey to be enjoyed through three different one-week holiday proposals offering sun, sea, nature and culture.Discover the emotions of a path combining Mitteleuropean culture and Mediterranean lifestyle.

phot

o M

. Dan

esin

www.adriabike.euConsult the online catalogue Discover the stops of the journeyDownload the tracks and the appInfo about the project Interbike

Progetto INTERBIKE finanziato nell ambito del Programma per la Cooperazione Transfrontaliera Italia-Slovenia 2007-2013, dal Fondo europeo di sviluppo regionale e dai fondi nazionali.

Projekt INTERBIKE sofinanciran v okviru Programačezmejnega sodelovanja Slovenija-Italija 2007-2013 iz sredstev Evropskega sklada za regionalni razvoj in nacionalnih sredstev.

INTERBIKE project funded under Program for Cross-Border Cooperation Italy-Slovenia 2007-2013, by the European Regional Development Fund and national funds.

Projekt INTERBIKE wurde im Zusammenhang des Programms zur grenzüberschreitenden Zusammenarbeit Slowenien-Italien 2007-2013 durch Finanzmittel des Europäischen Fonds für regionale Entwicklung sowie nationale Mittel finanziert.


!

!

!

!

!

IT SI

HR

AT

Venezia

Mare Adriatico

Ravenna

KoperCapodistria

Trieste

Kranjska Gora

AdriabikeThe Northern Adriatic cycle routeKranjska Gora, Koper, Trieste, Venezia, Ravenna

A 1000 km long cycle path connecting the Alps and Northwestern Slovenia’s lakes with the Adriatic beaches and lagoons.A journey to be enjoyed through three different one-week holiday proposals offering sun, sea, nature and culture.Discover the emotions of a path combining Mitteleuropean culture and Mediterranean lifestyle.

phot

o M

. Dan

esin

www.adriabike.euConsult the online catalogue Discover the stops of the journeyDownload the tracks and the appInfo about the project Interbike

Progetto INTERBIKE finanziato nell ambito del Programma per la Cooperazione Transfrontaliera Italia-Slovenia 2007-2013, dal Fondo europeo di sviluppo regionale e dai fondi nazionali.

Projekt INTERBIKE sofinanciran v okviru Programačezmejnega sodelovanja Slovenija-Italija 2007-2013 iz sredstev Evropskega sklada za regionalni razvoj in nacionalnih sredstev.

INTERBIKE project funded under Program for Cross-Border Cooperation Italy-Slovenia 2007-2013, by the European Regional Development Fund and national funds.

Projekt INTERBIKE wurde im Zusammenhang des Programms zur grenzüberschreitenden Zusammenarbeit Slowenien-Italien 2007-2013 durch Finanzmittel des Europäischen Fonds für regionale Entwicklung sowie nationale Mittel finanziert.

Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Peschiera del Garda.2. Peschiera del Garda–Mantua (45 km). From Peschiera, skirting the Mincio, you follow Italy’s most famous cycleway and reach Mantua. Along the way, you discover the settlements of Borghetto, with its iconic watermills and Valeggio, with its Parco Sigurtà, a green oasis spread across 600,000 sqm.3. Mantua–Ostiglia/Sermide (45/65 km). Leaving Mantua along its lakes and the river Mincio, you arrive at the historic lock of Governolo and join Italy’s largest waterway: the majestic River Po. A detour leads to Polirone Abbey at San Benedetto. Carrying on along the Po cycleway, you arrive to the overnight stay in Ostiglia or Sermide.4. Ostiglia/Sermide–Ferrara (65/45 km). You resume along the Po and arrive at Stellata, a settlement with the star-shaped Rocca Possente, an 11th century fortress, once controlling the river’s shipping from the floodplain. At Bondeno you veer off to catch the scenic cycling path of the Burana Canal. Once ruled by the Este dynasty and a key city state of the Italian Renaissance, Ferrara is now a thriving university town and Italy’s “Cycling Capital”.5. Ferrara round tour (50 km). This day is dedicated to a nice round tour in the quiet countryside around Ferrara, con-sidered the ‘bike capital’ of Italy, due to the large use of bicycles in the everyday life. Ferrara is a key City State of ancient Italy, which attracted influential archi-tects and artists for centuries. You will visit the historic little touched centre of this thriving university town, still sur-rounded by the original city walls. 6. Ferrara–Ostellato/Pomposa (40/70 km). Today’s stage offers the discovery of two of the Este family’s celebrated Delizie: Belriguardo and Verginese. Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, they both form part of the collection of country retreats and hunting lodges playfully known as “Delights”. Along with Ferrara itself, in its day a pioneering example of town planning, these villas are listed as World Heritage Sites by

virtue of their unique fusion of Renais-sance vision and natural landscape. Overnight will be either in Ostellato or Pomposa, with its 9th century Abbey, a major centre of learning in the Dark Ages.7. Po Delta round tour (65/70 km)For the last cycling stage you will com-plete a round tour. If the overnight is in Ostellato you will follow the cycleway to Comacchio, a small town in the heart of the lagoon, considered the Delta’s capital. Founded on 13 islets linked by bridges and canals, Comacchio also boasts the area’s richest historic centre. Pushing deeper into the lagoon, you explore its fishing farms, or “valleys”, with their fishermen’s shacks and salt marshes. If your overnight is in Pomposa you will head towards the coast through the Mesola Forest Nature reserve, emerging at the tiny fisherman’s harbor of Goro with its picturesque waterfront. This is the core of Po Delta, its fishing “valleys” and brackish lagoon, home to over 300 species of birds.8. Po Delta. Breakfast and end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

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

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

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

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


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

Ferrara

S.Benedetto

Governolo

Ostiglia

Sermide

Stellata

Ostellato

Pomposa Mesola

Comacchio

Mantova

Venezia

Treviso

Verona

Min

cio

Peschiera

Desenzano

Adige

PoPo

Delta del Po

MARE ADRIATICO

ILago diGarda


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SU 12.04 - 19.07 and 23.08 - 4.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 12.04 - 19.07 and 23.08 - 4.10

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days Hotline service.


TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour Po Delta–Peschiera del Garda 290 € (1-4 persons) 350 € (5-8 persons)

Webcode I22

Season 1 628 €


BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

PeschieraDBLSGL

65 €90 €

Po Delta areaDBLSGL

50 €65 €

REDUCTIONS(3rd person in room)

100 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels.

Comacchio, founded on 13 islets linked by bridges and canalsPo Delta and the pink flamingos

Parmigiano Reggiano cheeseLugana, white wine


DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Peschiera del Garda, a veritable fortress-city completely surrounded by water, an architectural jewel of art and culture.2. Peschiera round tour (40 km). First day on bike among fruit plantations and vineyards of the eminent still white wine Lugana, characteristic of this region. You arrive in Solferino, the site of the famous battle that ended the Italian Second War of Independence, providing the basis for a united Italy.3. Peschiera del Garda–Desenzano del Garda (45 km). In search of another highly-valued place on the west bank of the lake, you will ride on to Desenzano where there will be a round tour on the sweet morainic hills. For the less ath-letic, the town offers various possibilities to spend several hours relaxing peace-fully on the banks of the lake. Transfer by train from Desenzano to Peschiera for the overnight stay. 4. Peschiera del Garda. Day of rest and relax. Use the opportunity for a visit to the walled city and its lake. Alternatively excursion to Sirmione by public trans-portation. 5. Peschiera del Garda–Verona (45 km). Pedal towards Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, with the river Adige passing through it; this is one of the most beautiful cities in Veneto. Don’t miss the Roman Arena, the stunning Church of San Zeno and, naturally, Juliet’s House. Transfer by train from Verona to Peschie-ra del Garda for the night. 6. Peschiera del Garda–Mantua (35 km). An evocative route which is suitable for everyone along one of the most famous and loved cycle paths of Italy. From Lake Garda to Mantua be-tween the provinces of Verona and Mantua inside the Regional Nature Park of the river Mincio. Transfer by train from Mantua to Peschiera for the overnight stay.

7. Peschiera. Departure or possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Venice–Mantua/Mantua–Venice Bike&Boat (pp. 28-29).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 165 km- Total vertical up: 650 m- Terrain: 100% asphalt

You will ride along routes which are on rural/secondary roads or cycle paths in the area of Garda Lake. The entrance toVerona has slightly more traffic but onlyfor a short stretch.

BY PLANE



Lake Garda Roundtour from Peschiera del Garda

I

Lago diGarda

Adige

Adi

ge

Minc

io

Laghidi

Mantova

Peschiera Verona

Mantova

Desenzano

Bussolengo

Valeggio sul Mincio

Solferino

Sirmione


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR every day 11.04 - 26.09


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, route description & maps, train tickets for Desen-zano–Peschiera, Verona–Peschiera and Mantua–Peschiera as in the itinerary, 7-day service hotline.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 8 €).

Webcode I24

Season 1 510 €

Season 2 590 €


BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

PeschieraDBLSGL

55 €85 €

VeronaDBLSGL

65 €85 €

Cat. A 3* hotel (hotel Puccini or equivalent if not available).

Sirmione, ancient lakeside settlementRegional Nature Park of river Mincio

Tortelli of Valeggio, hand-made fresh pasta filled with meatBardolino, red wine

Italy


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Abano/Montegrotto. Arrival at the hotel.2. Euganei Hills (45 km). A delightful itinerary through the Natural Park of the Euganei hills and its wonderful sights. The first stop will be in the gardens of Villa Barbarigo in Valsanzibio, one of the most important examples of the classical Italian garden. You will then visit the medieval town of Arquà Petrarca. The destination of your excursion is the walled town of Monselice, a strategic medieval fortress. 3. Padua (35 km). A series of country roads will take you to the unique six-teenth-century Villa Emo Capodilista, now also a prestigious vine-growing and wine-making estate.Following the Bacchiglione river you will come to Padua. You will have a whole free afternoon to discover the wonders this city can offer, such as the Scrovegni Chapel, frescoed by Giotto and a Unesco World Heritage Site, the Basilica of St Anthony, the Prato della Valle square, Andrea Mantegna’s frescoes and the prestigious university founded in 1222. 4. Free day. You can use this day off to relax and enjoy a wellbeing package at the hotel, or you can simply spend the whole day at the pool. Alternatively, you can take a 45-minute train ride into Venice and discover its calli and canals. For those who prefer cycling, the new 60-km cycle path around the Euganei hills is the ideal choice. 5. Brenta Canal (50 km + train). From Abano you join the Brenta canal, which was built by the Venetians to link Padua to the Venice lagoon and immedi-ately became a crucial communication and trade route. Sumptuous villas were built here between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries. Three of the most stately buildings are the eighteenth-century Villa Pisani in Stra, Villa Sceri-man Widmann in Mira and Villa Foscari,

also known as the Malcontenta, de-signed in 1559 by Andrea Palladio and now a Unesco World Heritage Site. The return journey is by train, from Mestre.6. Praglia–Villa dei Vescovi (30 km). You conclude the week with an easy itinerary that will take you to the cel-ebrated Benedictine abbey in Praglia, founded in the eleventh century and for centuries a key agricultural management centre for the Paduan countryside. The abbey is now a centre of excellence for the restoration of antique books. The itinerary continues towards the majestic Villa dei Vescovi, designed in the six-teenth century. A few relaxing hours can be spent while visiting the interiors and enjoying a picnic in the gardens.7. Abano/Montegrotto. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Mantua–Venice/Venice–Mantua Bike&Boat (pp. 26-27), Veneto (p. 34).

ROUTE PROFILE

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

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

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

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


Terme EuganeeAbano and Montegrotto

I

AbanoTerme

Padova

Praglia

LuviglianoMontegrotto terme

Monselice

Arquà Petrarca

Stra

Mira

Venezia

Chioggia

Mestre

Brenta

Sile

BrentaBacchiglione

LAGUNADI VENEZIA


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR every day 18.04 - 3.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, route descrip-tion and maps, swimming pool entrance, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (about 9 €). Special treatments at the hotel Spa. Train transfer: Mestre–Terme Euganee (approx. 30 min, 9 € per person)

Webcode I25

Season 1 435 €

Season 2 475 €


Half Board ¹ 80 €

Half Board ² 140 €

BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

Cat. A 3* hotel (hotel Aqua or equivalent if not available)¹ 6 dinners included (3-course meal), beverages not included;² 3 dinners included (3-course meal), beverages not included.

Padova city of art, home of Giotto’s frescoesEuganean Hills Regional Park

Prosciutto di Montagnana, local ham aged at least 12 monthsMoscato, dessert white wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Bolzano. Arrival at the hotel.2. Renon roundtour (35 km). In the morning you will take the cable railway for an evocative round trip on the Renon plateau, the riviera of the Dolomites. In the 1600s, Renon was the preferred summer residence of aristocratic fami-lies from Vienna and Bolzano, who built splendid alpine cottages which you can admire today.3. Bolzano–Lake Caldaro (45 km). At the beginning of the tour you leave Bolzano behind you and slightly uphill you will pass the higher Appiano. This is followed by a descent through the vine-yards to the Lake Caldaro, one of the largest lakes in South Tyrol, where bathing is possible from May to Septem-ber. By Ora follow the cycle path along the Adige north again.4. Bolzano. Day of rest. Take the oppor-tunity to visit Bolzano or to relax in the hotel. Its mediaeval city centre, Gothic and Romanesque churches and bilingual signage give it a unique flavour of a city at the crossroad of Italian and Austrian cultures. For those who wish to pedal also today, we suggest the itinerary to Trento along a very nice and quiet cycle path (approx. 70 kms) from where you go back to Bolzano by train.5. Bressanone–Bolzano (45 km). From Bolzano the train takes you to Bressanone, the artistic and cultural capital of the Isarco valley. Here you can visit the baroque Cathedral and a inter-esting Pharmacy Museum, located in a nearly 500-year-old townhouse. From Bressanone you cycle along the valley, passing through Fortezza and returning finally to the capital of South Tyrol.

6. Merano–Bolzano (35 km). By train you reach Merano and start cycling along the Venosta valley, among apple orchards and vineyards. On your way you ride past sleepy little towns like Nalles and Andriano. Still cycling along the cycle lane you reach your destination, Bolzano.7. Bolzano. After breakfast end of services.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 160 km- Total vertical up: 1,250 mt- Terrain: 100% asphalt

All the routes are on rural/secondary roads and cycle paths. There are some short ascents and descents mainly in the first stage on Renon plateau.

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

BY PLANE



South Tyrol ValleysBike & relax around Bolzano

Merano/Meran

Vipiteno/Sterzing

Bressanone/Brixen

Ora/Auer

Appiano/Eppan

Fortezza/Franzenfeste

Ponte Gardena/Waidbruck

IA

Isarco

Adige

Lago di

Caldaro

Bolzano/Bozen

Renon/Ritten


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR every day 11.04 - 26.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 11.4 - 27.06 and 5.09 - 26.09. Season 2: 28.06 - 4.09

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, route description and maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE South Tyrol Mobilcard for railway and cable car (incl. transporta-tion of the bike), about 40 € as per programme; Local taxes (about 10 €).

Webcode I23

Season 1 495 €

Season 2 530 €


BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

BolzanoDBLSGL

65 €85 €

Cat. A 4* hotel (hotel Scala oder gleichwertiges wenn nicht verfügbar).

Merano, sophisticated spa townLake Caldaro and the vineyard landscape

Apricot dumplings, typical dessert of Venosta ValleySchiava, red wine

South Tyrol ... Italy with a twist

South Tyrol is Italy at its best – with a dash of Alpine influence. 8,000 miles of nature trails set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dolomites. Add to that, 300 days of sunshine a year, delicious food fusing Italian and Alpine influences, fine regional wines and amazing spa treatments ranging from soothing to exhilarating and it’s clear to see why South Tyrol is Italy with a Twist.

www.suedtirol.info


DAY BY DAY ITINERARY 1. Arrival in Alessandria, a city divided by the river Tanaro. Piazza della Libertà and Piazza Duomo with its wonderful neoclassical cathedral are worth a visit. 2. Alessandria–Acqui Terme (50 km). You cycle for a few Kilometers along the Strada Franca, an ancient road dating back to 1454. You will pass across smooth hills, woods and small isolated villages where you will be able to taste local products and excellent local wines (Barbera and Dolcetto d’Acqui among others). Acqui Terme: famous for its spring waters, like the “Bollente” situ-ated in the historical centre.3. Acqui Terme–Alba (55 km). You come across the famous Langhe hills, the countryside and the vineyards as well as the splendid small villages of Montabone, Rocchetta Palafea and Canelli. The stage ends in Alba, home of the most precious of the truffles, the Tartufo Bianco, and of the famous “Dolcetto d’Alba”. 4. Alba–Asti (35 km). A route through vineyards and along panoramic paths which will eventually take you to Asti in the heart of Monferrato. Do visit the historical centre with its famous towers, the Romanic monuments and the splen-did Gothic cathedral.5. Excursion to Torino or Asti round tour (35 km). Today you can choose between cycling across the Asti hills and their nature parks and a trip by train to Torino, which can be reached in about one hour. Torino, the first capital of Italy, is a city with splendid monuments, tree-lined roads and ancient cafés, which offer a choice of chocolate-based specialties.

6. Asti–Casale Monferrato (55 km). Take advantage of the hospitality of the wine cellars and restaurants along the way, which offer an excellent eno-gastronomical choice. In Monferrato you will eventually meet the river Po, the longest river in Italy.7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria (45 km). Further cycling across green hills and cultivated lands. Passing through the small villages on the right side of the Po river you will return to Alessandria where the tour ends.8. Alessandria. Departure after break-fast. Possibility to book extra nights.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 240/275 km- Total vertical up: 2,630/2,930 m- Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 6 and 7.- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2 and 7.

Tour of an average difficulty mainly running on paved roads with low traffic. The highest elevation gap is on the stages Acqui Terme–Alba and Asti–Casale Monferrato. A bit more traffic is to be faced when approaching the towns of Alessandria and Asti.

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

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


PiedmontWine and food lovers’ paradise!

Italy

I

Torino

Alessandria

Casale Monferrato

Asti

Alba

Neive

CanelliAcqui Terme

Po

Po

Tanaro

Borm

ida


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 18.04 - 3.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transpor-tation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10 €). Train transfer to Torino (approx. 40 min., 9 € per person).

Webcode I05

Season 1 615 €

Season 2 655 €


BICYCLE RENT


Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

AlessandriaDBLSGL

55 €75 €


100 €

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels.

Savoy Residences in Turin and surroundingsThe vineyard landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato

Truffles, often served in traditional dishesBarolo, red wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Individual arrival in Orvieto. This breathtaking city was built on the sum-mit of a butte of white tuff and therefore it looks like a fortress standing on the impressive cliffs. The Gothic façade of the cathedral of Orvieto is just one of the many unique monuments covering millenniums of history.2. Orvieto–Castiglione del Lago (30 km transfer + 40/50 km by bike).Short train transfer to Fabro, with its beautiful castle overlooking the Chiana Valley. You start cycling over the rolling hills with two choices: either going a bit uphill through Città della Pieve (a medieval village still surrounded by fourteenth-century city walls) or through an easier but longer stretch through Chiusi. The medieval town of Castiglione del Lago and its imposing castle surrounded by walls awaits you.3. Castiglione del Lago–Perugia (40 km by bike + 20 km by train). Following the northern shores of the lake and crossing hills you finally reach Magione and its castle. From here you have a short transfer by train to Perugia. This city was built as an acropolis on the hills and has a splendid old town centre surrounded by Etruscan city walls. 4. Perugia–Assisi (35 km). Today there is an easy trip. After having crossed the Tiber plain the stage leads you to Santa Maria degli Angeli at the foot of the hill of Assisi, where many places are linked to the everyday life of Saint Francis of Assisi. Afterwards you reach Assisi, which will astonish you with its art, monuments and the great atmosphere. The 13th century Basilica is the mother church of the Franciscan Order and burial place of St. Francis. 5. Assisi–Spoleto (45/50 km). This is the most exciting trip of the tour with many possible stops. The first one is Spello, a walled town lying on the ridge of Monte Subasio, with a large number of Roman ruins. You then cycle crossing the countryside towards Foligno, famous for its “Piazza della Repubblica” and “Piazza del Duomo”. A small detour leads you to Bevagna and afterwards

you can cycle on towards Trevi getting then back to the the main itinerary. The stage ends in Spoleto, a well preserved medieval village, nowadays a flourishing cultural centre of international fame.6. Spoleto–Todi (60 km). Today you cycle on towards the village of Castel Ritardi and from here you leave the Umbrian valley to enter beautiful hills covered with oak and olive trees till you reach Todi, considered one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy, perched on a hill and overlooking the Tiber valley. 7. Todi–Orvieto (45/55 km). Today’s stage leads you through small villages in the middle of the nature. A variation of the stage takes you along a bank of the Lake Corbara. On the last kilometres the white tuff cliff town of Orvieto suddenly emerges from the splendid rolling hills.8. Orvieto. Departure after breakfast.

ROUTE PROFILE

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

The level of difficulty of this itinerary is moderate. The route follows mainly the asphalt low traffic roads and each day you will have to climb a few little steep slopes. In the last two stages between Spoleto and Orvieto you will have the challenge of some more difficult slopes.

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

You can reach Orvieto from Roma Fiumicino (FCO), Roma Ciampino (CIA), Perugia (PEG) and Florence (FLR).Orvieto is located on the railway line which connects Rome with Florence and is therefore easy to reach from both cities (approx. 90 min.).


UmbriaThe green and spiritual heart of Italy



SEASONS Season 1: 2.05 - 19.09

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage trans-portation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

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

Webcode I19

Season 1 685 €


BICYCLE RENT


Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

OrvietoDBLSGL

60 €80 €


100 €

Cat. A 3* hotels with one 2* hotel in Castiglione del Lago.

Fabro

Orvieto

Castiglione del Lago

Perugia Assisi

Arezzo

SpoletoTodi

Lago Trasimeno

Lago di Bolsena

Città della Pieve

Chiusi

Magione

Foligno

Spello

Bevagna

Tevere

I

Basilica of San Francesco in AssisiA landscape of rolling hills and olive groves

Pecorino cheese, often flavoured by local black truffleSagrantino, red wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Pisa. Arrival. The city is famous all over the world for its magic Piazza dei Miracoli with the characteristic leaning tower, the bell tower of the city cathedral. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1987, besides a large number of monu-ments it also offers the friendly and lively atmosphere of a university city. 2. Pisa–Lucca (30/45 km). Today you are pedalling northwards along the river Serchio for an easy stage. For those who wish a slightly longer itinerary, there is the option of going towards Massaciuc-coli Lake before reaching Lucca.3. Lucca–Montecatini (45 km). Through a panoramic road you reach the little village of Collodi and the town of Pescia. In Collodi, where the author of Pinocchio spent his childhood, you can visit the famous Pinocchio’s Park (cre-ated in 1962) and the aristocratic Villa Garzoni. In Pescia you can enjoy a quiet stroll among churches, palaces, Renais-sance mansions and the local flower street market.4. Montecatini–Montecatini (60 km). Today’s route offers you again two possibilities. You can relax in one of the most famous thermal cities in Europe and stroll down the narrow lanes of the old city, which is situated on a hill and can be reached by a characteristic cable-railway. Otherwise a picturesque itinerary will lead you among villas of the Medici family, olive groves, vineyards and beautiful historical farms, going past Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace (visit to the museum possible).5. Montecatini–Florence (50/65 km). Today you have to choose either to start pedalling directly from Montecatini or to shorten the trip through a short train transfer to Pistoia, rich in Romanesque and Renaissance monuments (in particu-lar churches) and having one of the most evocative squares in Italy: Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square). From here back onto the saddle, immersed in the Tuscan flatland, to reach Florence.

6. Florence. Free day. It will be up to you to decide how to spend your time in one of the world’s most beautiful cities!7. Florence–Empoli–Pisa (40/65 km by bike + 40/65 km by train). Today you can choose if either starting pedalling directly from Florence and reaching Pisa through a train transfer from Empoli or taking a train to Empoli and riding to Pisa along the river Arno.8. Pisa. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the tour: Umbria (p. 55).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 225/280 km- Total vertical up: 1,110/1,640 m- Terrain: 88% asphalt, 12% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3, 5 and 7.

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

PARKING

In Pisa: free parking place outside the first hotel, for the whole duration of the tour (in the hotel garage the price is about 10 € per day, no reservation possible, to be paid on-site).

BY PLANE

Pisa is well connected with the following airports: Pisa (PSA), Florence (FLR).


TuscanyBetween Pisa and Florence


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 11.04 - 10.10 MO 29.06 - 27.07 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome brief-ing in English, luggage trans-portation, route description and maps, 7-day Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes: (approx. 10-15 €). Train transfers: Montecatini–Pistoia (approx. 20 min., 6 € per person); Florence–Empoli (approx. 30 min., 8 € per person); Empoli–Pisa (approx. 30 min., 9 € per person).

Webcode I06

Season 1 638 €

Season 2 698 €


BICYCLE RENT


Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

PisaDBLSGL

60 €90 €


100 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels (sometimes a cosy 2* hotel in Lucca).

Arno

Lago diMassaciuccoli

MARTIRRENO

MONTIPISANI

Pistoia

Collodi

MontecatiniTerme

Vinci

EmpoliPisa

Lucca Poggio a Caiano

Firenze

I

Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli and the iconic TowerMassaciuccoli Lake, a oasis for the birdlife

Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a large grilled beef T-boneVin Santo, dessert white wine


DAY BY DAY ITINERARY VARIATION 1

1. Siena. Arrival. 2. Siena–Radda in Chianti (45 km). From Siena you start to head north towards the beautiful village of Radda in Chianti. The remains of its ancient walls show the historical significance that this town had in the competition between Florence and Siena. 3. Radda in Chianti–Greve (40 km). The route brings you to Greve over the rounded hills with beautiful views.4. Greve–Florence (40 km). Florence, capital of Tuscany, spreads on the banks of the Arno, between the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian seas, almost in the middle of the Italian peninsula. In Florence, cradle of the Renaissance, worked the world famous artists Leonardo and Michelan-gelo.5. Florence. A full day to spend visiting Florence. The city is often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and was long ruled by the Medici family. Florence is also famous for its magnifi-cent art and architecture.6. Florence–Colle Val d’Elsa (40 km by train + 25 km by bike). In the morning a short train transfer will bring you to Certaldo. From here you will then cycle further up to Colle Val d’Elsa. 7. Colle Val d’Elsa–Siena (40 km). From Colle Val d’Elsa you will cycle to the beautiful town of Siena, which is not only one of the most fascinating towns in Tuscany but is also in a particularly beau-tiful position, with lovely surroundings. 8. Siena. Departure. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tours: Pisa–Florence (p. 56) or Umbria (p. 55).

VARIATION 2

5. Florence–Tavarnelle (40 km). The village of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa has Roman origins; it is named after the ancient taverns offering accommodation and refreshment located along the road which linked Florence to Siena and thence to Rome.

6. Tavarnelle–Colle Val d’Elsa (45 km). From Tavarnelle you cycle to Colle Val d’Elsa, which lies in the heart of Tus-cany, in a strategically favourable posi-tion near the towns of Siena and Flor-ence. It is situated on the via Francigena that connects Rome with the North. On the way you pass Certaldo, whose upper part has remained as it was in the Middle Ages. Further on you come across San Gimignano, which rises on a hill dominating the Val d’Elsa with its towers.7. Colle Val d’Elsa–Siena (40 km). See variation 1. 8. Siena. Departure after breakfast.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 195/255 km- Total vertical up: 3,180/3,970 m- Terrain: 95% asphalt, 5% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: NO- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: NO

Heavy, with sloping landscapes dotted with steeper inclines, but not over-whelmingly so. The daily distance is about 40 kilometres. Though the daily routes are not too long, they can be strenuous, so we do recommend being in reasonably good physical condition forthis tour.

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

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


TuscanyFlorence, Siena and the Chianti

Italy




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

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

Variation 1 2

Webcode I17 I31

Season 1 638 € 588 €

Season 2 698 € 648 €


Half Board ¹ 170 €

BICYCLE RENT


Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

FlorenceDBLSGL

75 €130 €

SienaDBLSGL

60 €90 €


100 €

Cat. A 3* hotels (in Colle val d’Elsa sometimes a cosy BB).¹ 6 dinners included (3-course meal, beverages not included).

I

Arno

MARTIRRENO

Pisa

Livorno

Firenze

Siena

S. Gimignano

Colle Val d’Elsa

Greve in Chianti

Radda in Chianti

Certaldo

Tavarnelle

Empoli

Piazza del Campo in Siena, home of the historical Palio raceThe Chianti hillsides offering an unique landscape

Cantucci and Ricciarelli, typical biscuits of SienaBrunello di Montalcino, red wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Matera. Arrival. Over millennia, inhab-itants of the region have carved dwell-ings directly into ravines and gullies made of tuff (or tufa), a characteristic honey-colored soft stone. These houses are called “Sassi”, today a World Herit-age site.2. Matera–Alberobello (70 km). You cycle to the famous trulli which were generally constructed as dwellings or storehouses. Alberobello is situated upon two hills. On the eastern hill is the new town. On the western hill, the trulli are lined up in an urban conglomeration, subdivided into two districts: Monti and Aia Piccola, both World Heritage sites. 3. Alberobello–Ostuni (45 km). You cycle through the countryside to Ostuni, which is reputed as an architectural jewel, and is commonly referred to as “the White Town” for its white walls and its typically white-painted architecture.4. Ostuni–Lecce–Gallipoli (70 km by train + 50 km by bike). After a short train transfer and a few kilometers through the town of Lecce, you go deep into the “salentinian countryside”, before approaching the Ionian coast and your daily destination, Gallipoli.5. Gallipoli–Santa Maria di Leuca (50 km). Cycling further along the coast you will reach Santa Maria di Leuca. Its name was given by the ancient Greek sailors who came from the East. They saw this place lightened by the sun and therefore called it “leukos”, meaning white. The town is today a famous seaside resort.6. Santa Maria di Leuca–Otranto (50 km). Today you will cycle northwards along the Adriatic coast to Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy where you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the great Aragonese Castle.7. Otranto–Lecce (55 km). Riding along the Alimini Lakes and their unique Medi-terranean bush you will enter Lecce. Thanks to its Baroque style, it has earned the nickname of Florence of the South. 8. Lecce. Departure after breakfast. Possibility to book extra nights.

ROUTE PROFILE

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

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

BY PLANE

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


ApuliaOlive groves and crystal seas

I

MAR IONIO

MAR ADRIATICO

Bari

Matera

Taranto

BrindisiLocorotondoGioia

del Colle

Otranto

Lecce

Ostuni

Alberobello

Gallipoli

S. Maria di Leuca


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 28.03 -13.06 and 29.08 - 24.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONS Season 1: 28.03 - 17.04 and 10.10 - 24.10 Season 2: 18.04 - 13.06 and 29.08 - 9.10

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

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €). Train Transfer Ostuni–Lecce (approx. 60 min., 9 € per person).

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 45 € p.p. Bari-Matera (min. 2 persons) Brindisi–Matera: on request Lecce–Bari: on request Lecce–Brindisi: on request

Webcode I08

Season 1 615 €

Season 2 655 €


BICYCLE RENT


Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

MateraDBLSGL

60 €90 €

LecceDBLSGL

60 €90 €


100 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels (in Alberobello in some cases a typical “widespread hotel”, called “trullo”).

SHORT BREAK

| | 205 km | 6 Days |

DAY BY DAY 1. Lecce2. Lecce–Gallipoli3. Gallipoli–Santa Maria di Leuca4. S. M. di Leuca–Otranto5. Otranto–Lecce6. Lecce

PRICE PER PERSON 495 € DBL 130 € SGL supplement 40 € season 2 supplement (18.04 - 13.06 and 28.09 - 9.10)

BICYCLE RENT 70 € Girolibero bike

INCLUDED 5 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage trans-portation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

DEPARTURES 2015 TU 31.03 - 16.06 and 1.09 - 27.10

Alberobello and Trulli, ancient dry-stone “huts”Adriatic and Ionian Sea: clean waters, crags and fine sands

Orecchiette, traditional handmade pasta-dishNegroamaro, red wine

Webcode I35


Italy

DAY BY DAYVARIATION 1 (8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS)

1. Caltagirone. Arrival. 2. Caltagirone–Piazza Armerina– Caltagirone (35 km). In the morning there is a transfer to Piazza Armerina with its Villa Romana del Casale, 5 km southwest of the town. First excavated in 1950, it was probably a hunting lodge and summer residence and is decorated with multicoloured mosaic floors that are unique throughout the Roman world in their quality and extension. After the visit cycle back to Caltagirone.

VARIATON 2 (7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS WITH ARRIVAL ON SUNDAY IN CALTAGIRONE)

3. Caltagirone–Modica (45 km by bike + 40 km transfer). From Caltagirone you cycle southward until you reach Vittoria where a transfer will bring you to Modi-ca. The upper town is watched over by the magnificent 18th century façade of the church of San Giorgio.4. Modica–Pozzallo (35 km). Before leaving Modica taste the famous spicy chocolate. From Modica you will gradu-ally descend alongside the characteristic caves of the Iblei mountains to Scicli, totally rebuilt in the Baroque style after the earthquake of 1693. Continue onwards through the marine centre of Pozzallo.5. Pozzallo–Marzamemi (55 km). This day of cycling on an almost completely flat course will bring you to Portopalo di Capo Passero, continental Europe’s southernmost point. Before arriving to Marzamemi, the beautiful island of Correnti marks the meeting point of the Ionian and Mediterranean seas.6. Marzamemi–Noto (25 km). The route takes a turn to the north passing through the relatively untouched and pristine natural preserve of Vendicari, where you can relish the beauty of the countryside. The trip continues north, ending in the city of Noto, considered to be the finest Baroque town in Sicily. Completely devastated in the earthquake of 1693

the city was rebuilt in the style of that time with beautiful honey-coloured stone buildings with ornate churches and monuments surrounding attractive piazzas.7. Noto–Siracusa (35 km). Heading north, the route continues towards Siracusa, the capital of Ancient Greece and home to Archimedes. With the Island of Ortigia in the background, the centre of Siracusa is a wonderful example of ancient city.8. Siracusa. Departure after breakfast. Possibility to book extra nights.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 230/195 km- Total vertical up: 1,670/1,170 m- Terrain: 100% asphalt- Train connection among the overnight stays: NO- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: NO

The itinerary develops on low traffic side roads except for the short part entering Siracusa. Most stretches are on low-lands with some slightly hilly passages. This tour is however suggested to people with a minimum of bike practice.

BY PLANE

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

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

SicilyThe land of lemons and oranges

I

Parcodell'Etna

MARMEDITERRANEO

MAR IONIO

Modica

Pozzallo Marzamemi

Noto

Siracusa

Vittoria

Catania

Piazza Armerina

Ragusa

Caltagirone


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 28.03 - 13.06 and 29.08 - 24.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7/6 nights hotel accommoda-tion, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, transfer from Caltagirone to Piazza Armerina (only for Variation 1) and from Vittoria to Modica, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10 €).

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour (min. 2 pax) 50 € Catania-Caltagirone; 60 € Siracusa-Catania

Variation 1 2

Webcode I28 I29

Season 1 645 € 605 €


BICYCLE RENT


Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

CaltagironeDBLSGL

45 €65 €

SiracusaDBLSGL

50 €75 €


100 €

Cat. A 3* Hotels, B&B and agriturismo.

Noto, Caltagirone and Siracusa, jewels of the baroque ageVendicari Nature Reserve, a mix of lagoons, sand dunes, and rocky coastlines

Fresh fish, from the coastline fishing communitiesNero d’Avola, red wine


DAY BY DAY 1. Orléans. Independent arrival in Orléans, homeland of Joan of Arc.2. Orléans–Beaugency/St. Dyé (30/50 km). You pedal along the Loire alternat-ing cycle paths with back-roads. After a visit to the Cathedral of Clery St. André you arrive at the Chateau Dunois with the beautiful medieval centre of Beau-gency. A land full of water and culture will lead the way to the beautiful town of St. Dyé, an ancient river harbour.3. Beaugency/St. Dyé–Blois (70/50 km). From the huge park surrounding Chambord Castle today’s trip continues on to Cheverny Castle through the forest of Boulogne. One last ride to the castle of Beauregard across the forest before you arrive in Blois.4. Blois–Amboise (45 km). After the visit of the city of Blois and its impres-sive castle, you pedal through forests up

to the town of Onzain. Here it is possible to visit the castle of Chaumont built on the top of a hill overlooking the river. In Amboise you cannot miss the house where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life.5. Amboise–Tours (55 km). After the forest of Amboise you arrive in Chenon-ceaux, known as the castle of the three ladies. You continue along the river Cher up to the city of Tours. You might also decide to stop for a visit at the castle of Nitray with its famous wine cellars.6. Tours–Chinon (60 km). Pedalling between the Loire and the Cher rivers you arrive at Villandry Castle, well known for its gardens. Following the Loire river, you’ll reach the city Langeais where you can stop for a break. Before arriving in Chinon you will visit Ussé, where you can admire the castle of the Sleeping Beauty.

7. Chinon–Saumur (35 km). The tour continues along country roads beyond the confluence of the rivers Loire and Vienne arriving in Savigny en Vèron and the sites of Candes St-Martin. A few Kilometres away there is the castle of Montsoreau from which you can enjoy the landscape over the Fontevraud Abbey. At the end of the stage you will visit Saumur, considered the “Pearl of Anjou”.8. Saumur. Departure after breakfast. Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tour: Paris–London (p. 62).

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 295 km- Total vertical up: 720 m- Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: every day- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

In this tour you cycle through the won-derful Loire Valley. This cycle trip is not very demanding, though sometimes there are some hilly sections. The daily stages are not very long – always about 50 kms – mostly in the lowlands. The itinerary is mainly on cycle paths or paved roads with a little traffic.

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

Orléans is well connected with the following airports (120-210 min.): Paris Charle de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), Paris Beauvais (BVA) and Nantes (NTE).

France


Loire valleyFrom Orléans to Saumur

F

Orléans

Tours

St.Dye

Blois

Amboise

Chinon

Chambord

Beaugency

Cheverny

Chaumont

Cher

Indr

e

Vienne

Rigny-Ussé

Saumur

VillandryChenonceaux

Loire

Loire

Angers


France


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A Cat. B DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 25.04 - 26.09 SU 31.05 - 6.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, lug-gage transportation, route descriptions & maps, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

TRANSFERS To be confirmed when booking the tour 65 € p.p. Saumur–Orléans (bike included) min. 2 persons, every day; 65 € p.p. Tours–Orléans (bike included) min. 2 persons, every day.

Webcode F03

Season 1 685 € 599 €

Season 2 730 € 635 €


Half Board ¹ 160 € 150 €

BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €


Orléans DBL/SGL 55/85 €

Saumur DBL/SGL 65/100 € 55/85 €


80 € 60 €

Cat. A mainly 3* hotels with a few 2* hotels. Cat. B mainly 2* hotels with a few 3* hotels.¹ 6 dinners included (except the one in Tours), beverages not included.

VARIATIONORLÉANS–TOURS

| | 175 km | 6 days

DAY BY DAY1. Orléans 2. Orléans–Beaugency/ St. Dyé3. Beaugency/St. Dyé–Blois4. Blois–Amboise 5. Amboise–Tours6. Tours

PRICE PER PERSONCat. A: 520 € DBL140 € SGL supplement30 € Season 2 supplement Cat. B:455 € DBL125 € SGL supplement20 € Season 2 supplement

BICYCLE RENT50 € Girolibero bike140 € Electro-bike

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 5 nights hotel accommoda-tion, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route descrip-tions & maps, Hotline service, hotel taxes.

DEPARTURES 2015 SA 25.04 - 26.09 SO 31.05 - 06.09

Tours, Unesco Heritage SiteThe gardens of Château de Villandry

Goat cheese from Loire valleySancerre, white wine


DAY BY DAY 1. Bienvenue à Paris! Those arriving in the early afternoon can make a first visit of the Ville Lumière.2. Paris–Cergy (55 km). Au revoir Paris! Starting from Notre Dame you can follow the Axe Historique from the Louvre with the Champs Elysées through the Arc de Triomphe till the new Défense district. After Nanterre, you will come to the islands and parks so dear to the impres-sionists, once a destination for Sunday trips, somewhere to spend the afternoon “en plein air” on a boat between the Seine and the Marne. Welcome to the Promenade Bleue in Paris! 3. Cergy–Gisors/surroundings (65 km). Your journey continues through the heart of the Vexin natural park, home to pictur-esque towns, castles and farmhouses. After Théméricourt and its spectacular Maison du Parc, you continue to Vil-larceaux and its eighteenth-century

castle bearing the same name. After the small town of Bray-et-Lû you will pro-ceed along the river Epte to Gisors and the fortress marking the historical Franco-Norman border. 4. Gisors/surroundings–Forges-les-Eaux (65 km). Departure from Gisors for Gournay-en-Bray and then on to Forges-les-Eaux, the renowned spa resort. Welcome to Normandy, or rather to Gourmandie, land of unique flavours! 5. Forges-les-Eaux–Newhaven (60 km by bike + ferry). From Forges-les-Eaux you follow the brand new cycle path that will take you directly to the sea, through the wonderful countryside dotted with farms that supply their excellent products to the Norman and Parisian markets. Along the second half of the route the landscape is tinged with blue as you pass through the Arques estuary, overlooked by the castle of the same name and ancient sand caves that have become a

refuge for marsh birds. Here you are in Dieppe, France’s leading seaside resort and a favourite place for many impres-sionist painters. Appointment on the quayside for the trip across the Channel. Overnight in New haven after the cross-ing. 6. Newhaven–East Grinstead (55/75 km). From Newhaven take the train to Polegate where you start to pedal. Alternatively you can cycle till Brighton and take the train from there but in this case you will extend the mileage of 20 km. Along the Cuckoo Valley and the old railway line, you will come to Heathfield. From here it gets more difficult but once in Groombridge it will be flat again. Following the Forest Way you arrive to the historic local market town of East Grinstead.7. East Grinstead-London (45 km). From East Grinstead you take the Worth Way, a cycle path through a wonderful

wood to Crawley: an ultramodern city, this will get you ready for The Old Smoke itself, London. From here you take the train to Couldson, where you start cycling through green parks and quiet districts to the heart of London. Your finish line for the week will be Westminster.8. London. After breakfast, goodbye and au revoir! Possibility either to book extra nights or to combine with the following tour: Loire Valley (p. 60).

France-Great Britain

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

Paris–LondonThe new Avenue Verte: between Notre Dame and the London Eye

GB

F

BE

NL

ParisCergy

Gisors

Forges-les-Eaux

ThéméricourtSaint-Denis

Nanterre

Dieppe

VernonVillarceaux

Gournay-en-Bray

Seine

Tamigi

ENGLISH CHANNEL

NewhavenPolegate

London

East GrinsteadCrawley

Coulsdon

Brighton


ROUTE PROFILE

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

The route follows the Avenue Verte along dedicated cycle paths, road shoulder cycle lanes and quiet country roads. The route is in the lowlands when it follows the main rivers, it then becomes slightly more difficult in the countryside areas, especially in England.

BY PLANE

Both Paris and London are well con-nected to many airports. Paris: Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (PRY), Beauvais (BVA). London: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN).

MAXI ASSISTANCE

For this tour, Girolibero offers you MAXI assistance for both group and individual packages. This means that in addition to a guide for the Guided tour, individual clients can count on the support of a vehicle travelling nearby. Thanks to this service, individual clients can enjoy a worry-free cycling holiday.

France-Great Britain


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 16.05 - 19.09


GUIDED TOUR 4.07, 11.07, 1.08, 8.08, 15.08.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, welcome briefing in English, luggage transportation, route descrip-tion and maps, ferry cruise Dieppe-Newhaven, support van in the area, 7-days Hotline service.

Extra services for Guided tour: guide on bike, 5 dinners (beverages not included).

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE All the train transfers.

Webcode F01

Season 1 689 €

Season 2 719 €


GUIDED TOUR

Webcode F01B

Basic price 998 €


BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

Paris DBL/SGL on request

London DBL/SGL on request


140 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels with one 2* hotel in Gisors/surroundings.

Paris and London, two of Europe’s most alluring capitalsThe white cliffs of southern British coastline

Seafood of Seine-MaritimeCalvados, the apple brandy from Normandy


France

DAY BY DAY 1. Individual arrival in Arles, the city of diabolical “ferias”, muse of artists and poets, known for its rich ancient and Romanesque heritage.2. Arles–Aigues-Mortes (65 km). Leave the city and go into the delta of the Rhône, better known as “Camar-gue”, where nature still prevails over civilization. You will cycle among cane fields, salt lakes, flamingos, horses and bulls. You will stop in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and then continue towards the medieval fortress of Aigues-Mortes.3. Aigues-Mortes–Nîmes (40 km). Back to civilization. Following streets with low traffic you reach the populated centre of Nîmes; rich in art and history, it is also called the “Rome of France”, but it also reminds Spain with its arenas and bullfighting.4. Nîmes–Uzès (45 km). After a tour of the city, surrounded by its Roman past, you will cycle up to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a truly spectacular work. Refresh yourself with a bath on the banks of the river Gard before reaching Uzès.5. Uzès–Avignon (50 km). Riding through gentle hills, today you will reach the capital of Provence, a real open air museum. Avignon was a papal city for nearly a century and here seven popes decided, in 1300, the destiny of the Christian Church. Before the arrival, stop at the beautiful ancient village of Ville-neuve-lès-Avignon.6. Avignon–Châteauneuf-du-Pape–Avignon (45 km). You will cycle towards Châteauneuf-du-Pape, following low-traffic roads and surrounded by vine-yards. You cross the river Rhône at the

height of Roquemaure and come back in Villeneuve along the Rhône banks.7. Avignon–Arles (60 km). After leaving the Palace of the Popes, you will cycle again to close the tour returning to Arles. Along the way, you cannot miss a stop at the famous Saint-Rémi-de-Provence and Les-Baux-de-Provence, well-known places throughout the world thanks to Van Gogh.8. Arles.After breakfast, end of services.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 305 km- Total vertical up: 980 m- Terrain: 91% asphalt, 9% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 3 and 7- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 3

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

BY PLANE

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


Provence and CamargueRoman sites and Van Gogh landscapes




INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage trans-portation, welcome briefing in Eng-lish, route descriptions & maps, entrance to Pont du Gard, 7-days Hotline service, hotel taxes.

Webcode F13

Season 1 715 €

Season 2 760 €


BICYCLE RENT



Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

ArlesDBLSGL

75 €105 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels, with some 2* hotels.

F

Aigues-Mortes

Montpellier

Arles

Avignon

Parc naturel régional de Camargue

Petit

Rhô

ne

Nîmes

St. Maries-de-la-Mer

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Les-Baux-de-Provence

Pont du Gard

Uzès

Rhône

Avignon, the splendid city of exiled PopesCamargue Nature Park

Petit farcis, Provençal stuffed vegetablesChâteauneuf-du-Pape, red wine

BIKE & FAMILY

Designed with the younger ones in mind: simple itineraries, shorter stages and following cycling tracks or the quietest roads. Bikes, trailers and accessories for hire, catering for kids of all ages. All luggage transfer is arranged and accommodation options include triple and quad rooms wherever possible, helping you to contain costs.


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Desenzano. Individual arrival.2. Desenzano–Peschiera del Garda (25 km). Crossing the regional border from Lombardy into the Venice Lands, our first stage takes us to Peschiera, one of the best loved resorts on Lake Garda. Still completely shielded by its original Venetian walls and surrounded by water, Peschiera will soon make you feel well and truly on holiday with its gorgeous beach offering all manner of water sports, and its range of shops, restau-rants and gelaterias.3. Peschiera–Borghetto–Parco Sigurtà–Peschiera (35 km). Leaving Peschiera, today we head for the Sigurtà Garden Park, skirting the River Mincio along the famous cycleway that leads to Mantua. Our first port of call is the riverside hamlet of Borghetto, listed among “Italy’s most beautiful villages” and renowned, along with neighbouring Valeggio, for its tortellini. Sigurtà covers a surface area of 600,000 sq. meters, with paths linking 18 ponds, meadows, a labyrinthine maze, a medicinal plants garden and large sundial, as well as an educational play farm. Then cycle back to Peschiera for the night.4. Peschiera. Today’s menu is strictly for kids only (of all ages!): Gardaland, one of Europe’s top theme parks, offer-ing dozens of rides and attractions. The park can be reached by free shuttle service from Peschiera station. Alterna-tively, why not enjoy the Sealife Aquari-um or the Canevaworld Aquapark (also served by free shuttle).5. Peschiera–Zoo Parco Natura Viva–Peschiera (40 km). The Parco Natura Viva has been described as a zoological park where “the animals actually look contented”, and today’s excursion takes us into the heart of a conservation project with a difference, which includes a number of endangered species. There is an added bonus for cyclists: a reduced ticket price. Cycle back to Peschiera.

6. Peschiera. A day for some lakeside relaxation and an opportunity to enjoy some of the week’s attractions once again.7. Peschiera. After breakfast, end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE


Routes are devised with the younger traveller in mind and are predominantly on cycleways and quiet roads. Flat with no significant climbs. The itinerary is designed in loops and can thus be modified at will.

PARKING

Depending on the hotel, about 10 € per day. No reservation possible.

BY PLANE

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


Lake GardaEasy cycling and bags of fun

I

Lago diGarda

Adige

Adi

ge

Minc

io

Laghidi

Mantova

Peschiera Verona

Mantova

Desenzano

Pastrengo

Park Natura Viva

Valeggio sul MincioBorghetto

Pozzolengo

Sirmione


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR MO 2.05 - 26.09.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE Local taxes (approx. 10-15 €), entrance fees to the theme parks mentioned in the programme (to be checked on their websites).

Webcode I37

Season 1 490 €

BICYCLE RENT


Child seat free

Child trailer 80 €

FollowMe-tandem 70 €

Family tandem 140 €

Helmet 15 €


Children 0-2 years 100%

3-6 years 50%

7-12 years 30%

Cat. A 3* hotels (with swimming pool in Peschiera).

Peschiera del Garda, one of Italian best-loved lake resortParco Sigurtà, a vast and diverse botanical park

Tortelli of Valeggio, hand-made fresh pasta filled with meatBardolino, red wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY 1. Vicenza. Individual arrival.2. Vicenza round tour (20 km). Our cycling holiday kicks off with a forage into the green countryside outside the city gates. A cycleway leads to the old hamlet of Maddalene and its karst springs – always a great way to cool down (save the ice cream for later!). At Polegge, another hamlet, you can dis-cover the remains of a Roman aqueduct, before heading back into town. Elegant Vicenza was home to the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, and the pedestrianised historic centre offers many of his celebrated designs. It is also a great place for a spot of shopping and – better still – a richly deserved gelato at the historic Gelateria Brustolon!3. Vicenza–Lake Fimon–Vicenza (30 km). A short ride out of town two of Vicenza’s most famous villas await your visit: Palladio’s perfectly symmetrical La Rotonda and the 18th Century Villa Valmarana ai Nani, adorned by statues of dwarfs and playful frescoes by Tiepolo. The cycleway then takes us to Lake Fimon, which you can explore on foot, by bike or by boat. Then back along the same track to Vicenza, skirting the Berici Hills.4. Vicenza–Abano (40 km). Today we take our familiar Riviera Berica cycleway, this time carrying on to the hillside village of Costozza, its picturesque stone houses surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Here we also find Villa da Schio, rich in history and renowned for its botanical gardens.Resuming our ride southwards, we come to the Benedictine Abbey of Praglia, before reaching our destination: the thermal resort of Abano.5. Abano–Battaglia Terme–Abano (30 km). Leaving Abano, a brief ride takes us to Montegrotto Terme where we find the Butterfly House, one of the top butterfly conservation centres in Italy.Pedalling through the Regional Park of

the Euganian Hills (a volcanic outcrop often mistaken for Alpine foothills – hence the abundance of thermal waters), we reach another spa resort: Battaglia Terme. A canal flows through the tiny attractive village, and you can be excused for thinking that you are in a backwater of Venice. Back to Abano for the night.6. Abano. Relax and enjoy the hotel pool, or pile into a local bus to discover the treasures of Padova: the choice is yours. Alternatively, why not hop in a cab to Le Fiorine Adventure Park: the tree-top ropes, suspension bridges and zip-lines, deep in the Euganian Hills woodland, will soon release your inner Tarzan!7. Abano. After breakfast, end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE


Routes are devised with the younger traveller in mind and are predominantly on cycleways and quiet roads. Flat, except for a couple of short climbs. The itinerary is designed in loops and can thus be modified at will.

PARKING

In Vicenza: 40 € per week Unguarded parking inside the hotel property. No reservation possible.

BY PLANE

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


From Vicenza to Abano TermeNature, art and relaxation

I

AbanoTerme

Vicenza

Lago di Fimon

Montegrotto

Battaglia Terme

Venezia

Mestre

Brenta

Sile

Bacchiglione

LAGUNADI VENEZIA

Treviso

Padova


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR MO 4.05 - 28.09


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days Hotline service, entrance into Villa Valmarana ai Nani, ice-cream in the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza (Brustolon).


Webcode I38

Season 1 460 €

BICYCLE RENT


Child seat free




Helmet 15 €



3-6 years 50%

7-12 years 30%

Cat. A 2/3* hotels (with swimming pool in Abano).

Villa Valmarana ai Nani, with its frescoes, gardens and eccentric statues of dwarfsEuganean Hills Regional Park

Polenta e baccalà (polenta and stockfish)Bianco di Custoza, white wine


France

DAY BY DAY 1. Blois. Individual arrival.2. Blois–Amboise (45 km).We saddle up for the start of a magical ride that today takes us along the River Loire as far as Amboise. Steeped in history, the atmospheric market town is celebrated for its château and the Clos-Lucé manor, where Leonardo lived for three years (and died) and where some of his remarkable inventions are on display. The 19th-century turtle fountain (topped by a teddy bear figure), the Clock Tower and the 7-level Chinese Pagoda all add to the town’s interest.3. Amboise–Chenoncheaux (35 km).We start the day cycling through the magnificent Forest of Amboise and into fields of wheat and barley. Our destina-tion is the Château de Chenonceau, its gardens fabulously landscaped against the meandering River Cher. What better way to enjoy today’s exploration through verdant landscapes than astride our two-wheeled steeds. Expect some ups and downs shortly before Chenoncheaux (it is always possible to return by train).4. Amboise–Chitenay (45 km).Fields of wheat and poppy meadows scattered with centennial oaks: welcome to the fertile farmlands of Touraine. The scenery is dotted with delightful hamlets such as Fougères and Vallières-les-Grandes, and towered by majestic castles – among them Fougères-sur-Biévre – all awaiting your discovery. The picturesque route takes us largely along quiet roads and the only challenging climb is a 1km stretch right at the start.5. Chitenay–Blois (40 km).An easy ride takes you from Chitenay to charming Cellettes, a commune bathed by the placid River Beuvron, for a visit to the Renaissance Château de Beaure-gard. After traversing the enchanting Forest of Roussy, we come to the Loire and the town of Blois, which welcomes you with its elegant bridge, monuments,

works of art and narrow alleyways tangled around its castle.6. Blois–Chambord (45 km).Today’s étappe leads us to one of the most famous and majestic of all Loire castles: Chambord. Leaving the hotel, we head for Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire, an ancient hamlet perched on the river. From here we continue southwards into the heart of the countryside until we reach the castle’s surrounding forest.7. Blois. After breakfast, end of tour.

ROUTE PROFILE

- Total length: 210 km- Total vertical up: 520 m- Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2

Routes are devised with the younger traveller in mind and are predominantly on cycleways and quiet roads. They are designed in loops and can thus be modified at will.

PARKING

Free unguarded parking place in the property of the hotel. No reservation possible.

BY PLANE

Blois is well connected with the follow-ing airports (120-210 min.): Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris Orly (ORY), Paris Beauvais (BVA) and Nantes (NTE).


Castles of the LoireA fairy tale freewheel

F

Orléans

Tours

Blois

AmboiseChambord

Cheverny

CherIndre

Vienne

Azay le Rideau

Ussé

Saumur

Villandry

Loire

Loire

Chitenay

Chinon

Chenonceaux


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015 SELF-GUIDED TOUR SA 2.05 - 25.07 and 15.08 - 26.09


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE 6 nights accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, route description & maps, 7-days-Hotline service, hotel taxes.

Webcode F20

Season 1 490 €

BICYCLE RENT


Child seat free




Helmet 15 €



5-12 years 50%

13-15 years 30%

Cat. A 3* Hotels (with swimming pool in Amboise and Chitenay).

Orléans, Unesco Heritage SiteThe gardens of Château de Villandry

Goat cheese from Loire valleySancerre, white wine

ROADBIKE

In collaboration with former pro cyclist Andrea Ferrigato, whose silverware accounts for 17 international victories, we enriched this brochure with a section dedicated to all drop handlerbar fans. Pedal on the roads that have written the course of cycling history: the Dolomites, Piedmont, Tuscany, Flanders, Paris-Roubaix... Tours for thoroughbred sportsmen and sportswomen with a thirst for adrenaline and a challenge, but who also appreciate a touch of comfort: accommodation in carefully selected hotels, luggage transfer and backup from a specialist tour operator. More on the website www.roadbike.girolibero.it


DAY BY DAY 1. Arrival in Bolzano. 2. Bolzano–Brunico–Dobbiaco (120 km, + 2,200 m, 6.30 h). Private transfer to Corvara, in the Sella Ronda park. Here 4 passes await you, ascents that have written the history of cycling.Variant (80 km) without Sella Ronda.

* Ferri says: The colour of the rock and the scents in the air make this a mystical place. The last part includes a lot of downhill route, so don’t be put off by the kilometres.3. Dobbiaco–Cortina (100 km, + 2,500 m, 6 h). You follow the cycle path along the Landro valley, at the foot of the three peaks of Lavaredo. A slightly uphill stretch, then down to Cortina d’Ampezzo and from here up again towards Falzar-ego Pass. The fi nal ascent leads you to “His Majesty” the Giau.Variant (70 km) without Falzarego Pass.

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

* Ferri says: A stage included in the 2012 Giro d’Italia, here ridden in the opposite direction… which does not make it any easier, in fact this slope of Duran Pass will have your lungs and legs screaming!5. Belluno–Valdobbiadene (70 km, + 1,000 m, 4 h). You pedal over slightly hilly terrain that recalls the Tuscan landscape and then arrive in Valdobbia-dene, surrounded by the famous Prosecco vineyards.

* Ferri says: Today’s stretch takes you up to San Boldo Pass and Pianezze, two historic ascents for the professionals who train in these hills. I recommend a

34–25 gear ratio for the Pianezze pass!Recharging your batteries with a good glass of wine is a must.6. Valdobbiadene–Treviso (70 km, + 1,000 m, 3.30 h). Up Montello on one of the many roads that lead to the top. After the descent you come to Treviso. On the way you go through Maser, where you can admire Villa Barbaro, a jewel of architecture by Andrea Palladio.

* Ferri says: We have over 33 different asphalted ascents to choose: the gradi-ents often reach 10–12%, and even 18% at times.7. Treviso–Mestre–Venice (50 km, + 300 m, 2.30 h). You leave Treviso and follow the Sile River to Casale. In the end, Venice awaits you! You stay overnight in Mestre, but can book to stay in Venice, subject to a surcharge.

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

PARKING


BY PLANE



Bolzano–VeniceFrom the legendary Dolomites to the Adriatic Sea

Italy


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015SELF-GUIDED TOURSU 3.05 - 19.07 and 23.08 - 27.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONSSeason 1: 3.05 - 27.06 and 7.09 - 27.09Season 2: 28.06 - 19.07 and 23.08 - 6.09

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transpor-tation, private transfer Bolzano-Corvara/Brunico, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service.

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

TRANSFERSTo be confi rmed when booking the tour60 € Mestre–Bolzano (bike in-cluded). Available on Sunday (other days on request).

Webcode I14R

Season 1 655 €

Season 2 700 €


BICYCLE RENT

High-end road bike 200 €

Standard road bike with carbon fork

120 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

BolzanoDBLSGL

65 €85 €

MestreDBLSGL

65 €85 €

Venice ¹DBLSGL


Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels.¹ on request night in Venice instead of Mestre.

MARE ADRIATICO

TrevisoLago

di Garda

Adig

e

Adige

Bolzano/Bozen

Mestre

Venezia

Chioggia

Brenta Sile

Piav

e

Belluno

Valdobbiadene

Brunico/Bruneck

Dobbiaco/Toblach

Cortina D’Ampezzo

Trento

P. Giau

Corvara/Kurfar

P. PordoiP. Campolongo

P. Gardena

Venice, a city made for walking and… losing yourself !Dolomites, the Sella Ronda and the 4 Passes

Speck, smoked pork from South TyrolKerner, white wine


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

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

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

* Ferri says: A relatively less challeging day to catch your breath. Just two climbs, both enjoyable, with half the elevation faced yesterday.5. Merano–Bormio (97 km , + 2,937 m, 6 h). Our cycle path out of Merano rises gently to Prato allo Stelvio and is merely the overture of what lies ahead: the legendary 48 bends that punctuate the 25.4 km and 1,840 m of elevation de-manded by the Stelvio Pass. Long and chilly descent into Bormio.

* Ferri says: Take it easy out of Merano so as to arrive at Prato allo Stelvio in good shape. Stop to refuel and for a bite before the Big One. 6. Bormio–Gavia Pass–Bormio (80 km, + 1,930 m, 4 h). The day is dedicated to the ascent of the historic and fabulous Gavia, where over the years countless champions have challenged one another in the Giro d’Italia. Your day has come!

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

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

PARKING


BY PLANE



Dolomites and Stelvio PassPasses and Peaks of the Alps

Italy


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015SELF-GUIDED TOURSU 31.05 - 27.09 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.

SEASONSSeason 1: 31.05 - 30.06 and 1.09 - 27.09Season 2: 1.07 - 30.08

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accommodation,breakfast buffet, 7 dinners (beverages not included), luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), well-ness area and laundry service in Bormio, 7-days Hotline service.


Webcode I15R

Season 1 770 €

Season 2 810 €


BICYCLE RENT



120 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

BolzanoDBLSGL

65 €85 €


CH

A

I

Bolzano/Bozen

Merano/Meran

Val Badia/Gadertal

P. Campolongo

Passo GiauBormio

P. Gavia

P. Mortirolo

P. SellaP. Pordoi

P. FalzaregoP. Gardena

Adige

Adige

Adda

Bolzano, Italy’s northern outpost town immersed in the DolomitesStelvio Area, with the Gavia, Mortirolo and Stelvio Passes

Beef goulash Gewürztraminer, white wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Arrival in Vicenza, a city of art and industry, it is where dozens of world-famous companies are headquartered: Fizik, Selle Italia, Wilier, Campagnolo and many others.2. Vicenza–Bassano del Grappa (120 km, + 1,500 m, 5 h). From Vicenza you cycle north towards Marostica: you pedal through the square where they play chess and up along the castle walls, heading for the high plain of Asiago. (15 km at 6% that leaves you breathless, but with splendid scenery). The Valsuga-na cycle path takes you to Bassano.

* Ferri says: The worst part is the ascent up to Asiago. I have cycled it hundreds of times with Pozzato, Rebellin, Ballan… you are highly likely to meet them on these roads.3. Bassano del Grappa–Treviso (120 km, + 2,500 m, 6 h). Ascent to Monte Grappa, where epic battles were fought in the World War I, but also in the Giro d’Italia and in the historic race that has been run here since 1930: 27 km, a difference of 1,500 metres in altitude, with a central apparently fl at stretch of 3.5 km. Long descent down to Valdob-biadene in the province of Treviso, through the Prosecco wine hills.Variant (80 km). Without the Grappa ascent.

* Ferri says: A wonderful route if the weather is good. In bad weather, come down from Monte Grappa via Campo-solagna–Campo Croce–Crespano. 4. Treviso–Treviso (100 km, + 1,300 m, 4 h). A tough circular route with continual uphill–downhill stretches through the Montello and Prosecco hills. A visit to Vittorio Veneto before heading back to Treviso.

* Ferri says: Today the scenery is still breathtaking here, through vineyards and woods, along roads where many Treviso based professional cyclists train.5. Treviso–Venice–Chioggia (80 km).A fl at route along the canals of the Sile River that head seawards. You cycle through Jesolo, a renowned summer tourist resort and come to Cavallino

Treporti, where you take a ferry that stops in Venice, Lido island, Pellestrina and Chioggia.

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

* Ferri says: Be careful of the wind during the fi rst part and pace your pedalling, as the last part is winding with some arduous ascents and up to 3–4 km long.7. Abano Terme–Vicenza (100 km, + 1,300 m, 4 h). Cycle to Ponte di Bar-barano, where the road starts to rise and fall a dozen times, through the Colli Berici. Down towards Costozza and after a few km on the level, as you come into Vicenza, you can admire the marvellous Villa La Rotonda by Palladio.

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

BY PLANE

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


Venice LandsCycling in the road bike land

Laguna

Mestre

Vicenza

Treviso

Chioggia

Abano Terme

Conegliano

COLLI BERICI

Arquà Petrarca

Teolo

Asiago

Marostica

Padova

Bassano del Grappa

Brenta

Brenta

VeneziaVerona

Lago diGarda

Adige

Adi

ge

MAR ADRIATICO


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015SELF-GUIDED TOURSA, SU 28.03 - 24.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE7 nights hotel accommoda-tion, breakfast buffet, luggage transportation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not pro-vided), 7-days Hotline service, ticket for ferry transfer (bike not included, approx. 4 €) on day 5.


Webcode I03R

Season 1 655 €

Season 2 700 €


BICYCLE RENT



120 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

Vicenza/TrevisoDBLSGL

55 €85 €

MestreDBLSGL

65 €85 €

Venice ¹DBLSGL



130 €

Cat. A mainly 4* hotels, with some 3* hotels.¹ on request night in Venice instead of Mestre.

Vicenza and Palladio’s architectureMount Grappa and its historic 27 km climb

Asiago cheese, typical from Vicenza’s mountainsProsecco, white wine


DAY BY DAY 1. Individual arrival in Peschiera del Garda, a treasure trove of art and architecture surrounded by water.2. Round tour (70 km, + 320 m, 3 h).First day on the saddle through orchards and vineyards of Lugana, the still white local wine. You come to Solferino, site of the famous battle that marked the end of the Second War of Independence.

* Ferri says: This stage in the hills surrounded by the scents of the country-side is easy and pleasant, on secondary roads with very little difference in altitude. Take it easy, today is just a warm-up stage!3. Peschiera del Garda–Desenzano del Garda–Salò (90 km, + 680 m, 4 h).Today’s stretch takes you to Salò and continues with a round trip on gently rolling moraine hills. For those feeling under par, this town offers plenty of chances to relax on the lakeside.

* Ferri says: There’s a fi ne ascent that takes you from Desenzano to Polpenazze del Garda: you can put your all into it because it’s followed by a long easy descent into Salò.4. Peschiera del Garda–Torri del Benaco (70 km, + 600 m, 3 h).The road runs along the lakeside and rises northwards through the towns of Lazise, Bardolino and Garda. When you get to Torri del Benaco, you climb to Castion Veronese, with hills of olive trees keeping you company the whole way.

* Ferri says: A very pleasant route along the lakeside with lovely scenery and the climb up to Castion Veronese is really easy: enjoy the view!5. Peschiera del Garda–Negrar (70 km, + 680 m, 4 h). The road follows the Valpolicella valley, famous for its good wine and numerous wineries. After having tackled the great ascent that

leads to Negrar, you can stop at the Colà spa and recharge your batteries with a swim.

* Ferri says: A very uphill–downhill route with fi ve medium diffi cult ascents of about 3–4 km each. An excellent route for the scenery and to work your legs. A stop to relax your muscles at the Colà spa is a must.6. Peschiera del Garda–Cima Veleno (90 km, + 1,390 m, 5 h). We follow the lakeside to Assenza di Brenzone, where the new Italian cyclist’s mecca starts: Cima Veleno, an 8 km ascent with a gradient that reaches 20% at certain points. Down towards Garda, this beauti-ful town on the lake and then the same route back to Peschiera.If you don’t want to tackle such a dif-fi cult climb you can go to Caprino Ve-ronese and pedal up from Ferrara di Monte Baldo: here the view over Lake Garda is magnifi cent.Another even easier alternative: cycle to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet and then enjoy a day’s retail therapy and culture.

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

BY PLANE



Lake GardaPeschiera roundtour

Italy

Peschiera del Garda

Desenzano

Solferino

Verona

Sirmione

Salò

NegrarBardolino

Garda

Cima Veleno

Torri del Benaco

Lago di Garda

Lago di Iseo

Adig

e

Adige

Min

cio


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015SELF-GUIDED TOUREvery day 11.04 - 26.09


INCLUDED IN THE PRICE6 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast buffet, luggage transpor-tation, GPS tracks for the stages (device not provided), 7-days Hotline service.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal hotel taxes (approx. 8 €), GPS device.

Webcode I24R

Season 1 510 €

Season 2 590 €


BICYCLE RENT



120 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

PeschieraDBLSGL

55 €85 €

VeronaDBLSGL

65 €85 €

Cat. A 3* hotel (hotel Puccini or equivalent if not available).

Verona, the city of art and… shoppingCima Veleno, backbreaking climb with views to die for

Olive oil from Garda LakeValpolicella Classico, red wine


Italy

DAY BY DAY

1. Individual arrival in Alessandria, a city divided by the Tanaro River. Piazza della Libertà and Piazza Duomo, with its magnifi cent neoclassic cathedral, are truly worth a visit.2. Alessandria–Castellania–Acqui Terme (90 km, + 660 m, 3.30 h).The tour starts in Alessandria and takes you to Castellania, Fausto Coppi’s birth-place. You then take the road that leads to Novi Ligure with easy ascents up and over the hills of vineyards that produce the renowned Barbera and Dolcetto d’Acqui wines. In the evening you can relax in the warm spa waters of Acqui Terme.

* Ferri says: A visit to Fausto Coppi’s house and birthplace is very moving and, once back on the saddle, you will feel you are pedalling at his side.3. Acqui Terme–Alba (100 km, + 2,100 m, 5 h). Three climbs await you on your journey through the Langhe, with gradients of up to 12%. One of these is the Gino Bartali ascent with its many holy sanctuaries surrounded by Dolcetto vineyards.

* Ferri says: A demanding route with continuous medium-length ascents, 5–7 km. Save some of your energy for the last diffi culty of the day, the Gino Bartali ascent… if you have dared too much and get here tired, you too will be forced to say: “l’è tutto sbagliato, è tutto da rifare” (it’s all wrong, do it again), Bartali’s historic motto.4. Alba–Asti (90 km, + 1,400 m, 4,30 h). Quiet roads through vineyards and hazelnut groves in the heart of Monfer-rato. Today we cross the Tanaro natural park and the Sarmassa natural reserve. The stage ends in Asti with its monu-ments and splendid Gothic cathedral.

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

the same, using your legs, heart and willpower.5. Asti round tour (90 km, + 1,000 m, 4 h). A cycle through the Monferrato vineyards to reach Turin. The end stretch is a climb up the famous Superga hill, 7 km at 8%, followed by a lovely descent down into Turin, a must-visit city! Back to Asti by train.

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

* Ferri says: Take care on the steep climbs, a 34–25 gear ratio may often be useful. Stop every now and again to enjoy the view and the silence.7. Casale Monferrato–Alessandria (50 km, + 500 m, 3 h). Our tour contin-ues through green hills and farmed land, through small towns on the right-hand bank of the Po River and comes to an end in Alessandria.

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

PARKING

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

BY PLANE

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


PiedmontThe ascents of Fausto Coppi

Po

Po

Tanaro

Bormida

Ticino

Alessandria

Casale Monferrato

Alba

Acqui Terme

Castellania

Torino

Asti


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015SELF-GUIDED TOURSA 18.04 - 3.10Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.



NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICELocal hotel taxes (approx. 10 €), GPS device, train transfer Torino–Asti on day 5 (approx. 40 min., 9 € per person + bike).

Webcode I05R

Season 1 615 €

Season 2 655 €


BICYCLE RENT



120 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

AlessandriaDBLSGL

55 €75 €


Turin, the old italian Capital, a must-visit cityThe vineyard landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato

Truffl es, often served in traditional dishesBarbera, red wine


DAY BY DAY 1. Individual arrival in Pisa.2. Pisa–Lucca (70 km, + 960 m, 4 h).You leave Pisa, heading for San Giuliano Terme, cycle around Monte Serra and tackle the ascent up the Buti side, the historic testing bench for professional cyclists such as Bartoli, Ulrich and Contador. The road climbs evenly and there is a unique view from the top: the Tyrrhenian Sea with the islands of Elba and Giglio. You then follow a slightly winding route towards Lake Massaciuccoli, ending this stage in wonderful Lucca.

* Ferri says: Enjoy the Buti ascent and challenge the great names, remembering however that today is only your fi rst day. Make frequent use of gear ratio 34–26.3. Lucca–Apuan Alps–Lucca (130 km, + 1,300 m, 6 h). You leave Lucca for Camaiore, climbing gently to reach Massa Carrara. An ascent takes you into the heart of the Apuan Alps, a new peak of white rock offering a spectacular view over the Tyrrhenian Sea. You then cycle down, crossing the valley which takes you back to Lucca.Variant (70 km) via Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi.

* Ferri says: The stage that goes up to the Apuan Alps is wonderful, with fabu-lous scenery as you rise. The valley that takes you from Castelnuovo Garfagnana to Lucca is quick, but a bit busy towards the end. The short route, on the other hand, is very pleasant if you love the sea and... the good life!4. Lucca–Florence (100 km, + 610 m, 4 h). From Lucca the road seesaws up and down until a long descent takes you down to Vinci, Leonardo’s birthplace, where you can visit the museum dedi-cated to this genius.Afterwards you tackle the Vittolini ascent that takes you to Florence.

* Ferri says: This is a very pleasant route, the ascents are pretty easy and it’s worth forgetting times and enjoying a slice of history. This evening, Florentine steak for dinner with a glass of good Chianti: tomorrow you’ll need your legs!

5. Florence-Siena, along the Eroica (90 km, + 1000 m, 4 h). Leaving Flor-ence along the River Arno, pedal towards Greve and Radda in Chianti among the iconic hills and vineyards of Chianti. The climbs are gentle (5% at most) and culminate with the spectacular white gravel roads of “Eroica” path. Arrival in Siena’s Piazza del Campo.

* Ferri says: Enjoy the roads of the Eroica: tranquillity, absence of traffi c and the illusion that you are pedalling in the 1930s are all emotions you will cherish for a long time.6. Siena–Montalcino–Pienza–Siena (120 km, + 1,200 m, 5 h). A route that follows the Cassia road south to the wonderful town of Montalcino. After about 40 km, the ascent that takes you up to the town is intimidating, but it opens up into the most fabulous pano-rama. The rest will get you ready to tackle the next uphill–downhill stretch that takes you to Pienza and then back to Siena.Variant (70 km).

* Ferri says: My favourite stage: here we combine (pleasant) effort with unique views, great wines and local culinary specialities. Stopping to eat in Montalcino or Pienza is almost obligatory! 7. Siena–Pisa (113 km, + 770 m, 4.30 h). Along the provincial road you come to Colle Val d’Elsa and then head towards San Gimignano, the marvellous city dominated by its medieval towers. The stage brings you back to Pisa, where the round trip and your holiday fi nally come to an end.

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

PARKING

In Pisa: free parking place outside of the fi rst hotel.

BY PLANE

Pisa is well connected with the following airports: Pisa (PSA), Florence (FLR).


TuscanyThe heroes’ hills

Italy

Arno

Lago Trasimeno

MARTIRRENO

Pisa

Siena

Firenze

Alpi Apuane

Lucca

Vinci

Volterra

Montalcino Montepulciano


SELF-GUIDED TOUR Cat. A DEPARTURES 2015SELF-GUIDED TOURSA 11.04 - 10.10 Special departure dates for at least 5 persons.




Webcode I17R

Season 1 750 €

Season 2 810 €


BICYCLE RENT



120 €

Helmet 15 €

EXTRA NIGHTS Cat. A

PisaDBLSGL

60 €90 €

Cat. A 3/4* hotels (sometimes a cosy 2* hotel in Lucca).

Florence, cradle of the Italian RenaissanceThe Chianti hillsides and the unmade roads of Eroica

Stewed wild boarMorellino di Scansano, red wine

76

BROCHURE 2015

BESPOKE TOURS Clients choose the destination and decide when to leave, we will organize the trip with Andrea Ferrigato as tour leader.Some examples:Andalusia and Sierra Nevada; Nizza–Mont Ventoux; Tunisia and the desert oasis; Tenerife training week... We can even organize special weeks connected to the main biking events of the world:

1GIRO D’ITALIA8 days/7 nightsGuided tour, from 1,800 €

2TOUR DE FRANCE8 days/7 nightsGuided tour, from 1,800 €

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

more on roadbike.girolibero.it

ELEVATION PROFILES NEW!

77

BROCHURE 2015

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1. INTRODUCTION: NOTION OF TOURIST PACKAGE Considering that: a) the operator and vendor of tourist packages, to whom the tourist makes a request, must be in possession of the administrative authorisation in order to carry out their activity. b) the tourist has the right to receive a copy of the tourist package sale con-tract (under art. 35 D.Lgs. 79/2011 of the Tourist’s Code) an essential docu-ment to get access to the National Guarantee Fund (art. 18 of these Gener-al Conditions).The definition of tourist package (article 34 Tourist’s Code) is as follows: tourist packages have as their subject matter travel, holidays and “all inclusive” tours, which result from the pre-arranged combination of at least two of the fol-lowing components, which must be sold or offered for sale at an inclusive price and cover a period of more than 24 hours or include at least one over-night accommodation: (a) transport; (b) accommodation; (c) other tourist services not ancillary to transport or accommodation (redact-ed)... and accounting for a significant proportion of the “tourist package”.

2. LEGISLATIVE SOURCESThe purchase of a tourist package, either with services offered on national territory or abroad will be governed - up to its abrogation under art. 3 D.Lgs no. 79 dd. May 23rd, 2011 (Tourist’s Code) - by the Italian Law 27/12/1977 n°1084 in ratification and implementation of the International Convention on Travel Con-tracts (CCV) regarding travel contracts signed in Brussels on 23.04.1970 and also by Tourist’s Code (art(s). 32-51) and its subsequent modifications.

3. OBLIGATORY INFORMATION: TECHNICAL BRIEFThe operator is obliged to provide either within the brochure or separately to it a technical brief. The details that must be included in the technical brief within the brochure or separately to it are: - details regarding the operator’s administrative authorisation;- details regarding the operator’s civil responsibility insurance policy;- period of validity of the brochure or programmes separate to the brochure or tailor made tour;- methods and conditions for transferral (Art. 39 of Tourist’s Code);- exchange rate used in the case of currency adjustments, days or value (Art. 40 Tourist’s Code).

4. BOOKINGSReservation requests must be made on the appropriate contractual form filled in entirely and signed by the client. Acceptance for the booking will be complete, with subsequent conclusion

of the contract, only once the operator has sent confirmation, even by telemat-ic means, to the client. Indications regarding the package that are not con-tained in the contractual documents, brochures or in other written means, will be provided in good time before the start of the journey by the operator in accordance with his obligations under art. 37 comma 2 of the Tourist’s Code.

5. PAYMENTA deposit of 25% of the price of the tourist package is to be paid at the moment of booking. The balance must be paid not later than 30 days preced-ing the intended departure date. In case of reservation after the above men-tioned date the whole payment is due in the act of reserving the package. Failure to pay the sums indicated above by the established date constitutes an express termination clause such as to determine rightful termination by the operator.

6. PRICEThe price of the tourist package is determined in the contract, and refers to the price indicated in the brochure or in the separate programmes, which have been added subsequently. The contract provides that price revisions can be made up to 20 days before the established departure date and solely to allow for variations in:- transportation costs, including the cost of fuel;- taxes or fees due for certain tourist services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports; - exchange rates applied to the pack-age in question. For these variations reference will be made to the exchange rate and costs mentioned above in force on the date of publication of the programme as printed in the brochure technical brief or on the date printed in the above mentioned adjustments.

7. ALTERATIONS OR CANCELLATION OF A TOURIST PACKAGE BEFORE DEPARTUREBefore the departure the operator or vendor who is forced to make signifi-cant alterations to one or more ele-ments of the contract must give imme-diate notification in writing to the tourist indicating the type of alteration and the consequent variation in price. If the alteration proposal is not accept-ed, the tourist can reserve the right to reclaim the amount already paid or receive an alternative tourist package in accordance with commas 2 and 3 of article 10. The tourist maintains the above rights also when cancellation is due to an insufficient number of partici-pants required as stated in the brochure or in the separate programme, or due to force majeure and accidental cause, regarding the tourist package pur-

chased. For cancellations which are not caused by force majeure or accidental cause or by insufficient number of par-ticipants, or reasons which are different from those of the non acceptance by the tourist of the alternative tourist package offered, the operator who can-cels (art. 33 letter e Consumer’s Code) will reimburse the tourist the double of what was paid to and received by the operator. The amount to be reimbursed can never be more than the double of the amount that the tourist would owe on that same date according to art. 10, comma 4 in the case the cancellation was done by the tourist himself.

8. WITHDRAWAL BY TOURISTThe tourist may withdraw in writing from the contract, without penalty only in the following cases:- increase in the price as mentioned in art. 6 greater than 10%; - significant changes of one or more of the elements of the contract, which are objectively considered fundamental to the fruition of the tourist package either proposed after conclusion of the con-tract but before departure and not accepted by the tourist.In the above cases the tourist has the right to alternatively: - receive an alternative tourist package, without paying a supplement and with the reimbursement of excess cost, in the case that the second package has an inferior value to the first; - reimbursement of only the sums already paid. Such reimbursement must be carried out within seven working days from the receipt of the reimburse-ment request. The tourist must communicate his deci-sion (of acceptance of the alteration or of withdrawal) within and not after two working days from the moment he receives notice of the increase or altera-tion. If no communication is made with-in these limits, the proposal formulated by the operator is to be considered as accepted. The tourist who withdraws from the contract before departure for reasons other than those listed in comma 1 or in the case considered under art. 7, comma 2, will be charged - independently from the payment of a deposit as in art.5 - with the individual cost of the organisation and the penalty in the amount indicated in the brochure technical brief or programme or tailor made tours. In the case of pre-formed groups these amounts will be agreed on a case by case basis at the moment of the signing of the contract.

CANCELLATION FEESIf the customer withdraws from the contract he is anyway obliged to pay the registration fee which is Euro 30 per person in 2015. The calculation of the days does not include the day of with-drawal. A declaration of withdrawal

must be made in writing within the deadline of one working day prior to the booked departure date: a) withdrawal until 30 days preceding the departure date: 20% of the total amount b) withdrawal from 29 until 22 days pre-ceding the departure date: 25% of the total amount c) withdrawal from 21 until 15 days pre-ceding the departure date: 50% of the total amount d) withdrawal from 14 until 8 days pre-ceding the departure date: 70% of the total amount: e) withdrawal from 7 until 1 day preced-ing the departure date: 95% of the total amount f) on departure day and and no-show: 100%. For the Bike & boat tours the following cancellation fees apply: a) withdrawal until 90 days preceding the departure date: 10% of the total amount b) withdrawal from 89 until 60 days pre-ceding the departure date: 40% of the total amount c) withdrawal from 59 until 30 days pre-ceding the departure date: 60% of the total amount d) withdrawal from 29 until 7 days pre-ceding the departure date: 85% of the total amount e) withdrawal from 6 until 1 day preced-ing the departure date: 95% of the total amount and f) on departure day and no-show: 100%. The same amounts apply to the cus-tomer, even if the missed departure is due to the lack or imprecision of the necessary personal documents. No refund is due to the customer who does not show up at the place of accommo-dation or in the case of cancellation during the the program stay.

ALTERATION OF THE BOOKINGFor each and any kind of alteration of the already booked tourist package the customer is obliged to pay an adminis-trative fee of Euro 30 per person. A reduction in participants will be con-sidered a cancellation and therefore subject to the cancellation fees as men-tioned above. The operator is not obliged to fulfil any customer's altera-tion request of an already booked tour-ist package if he is not able to meet the customer's requirements.

9. ALTERATIONS AFTER DEPARTUREAfter departure, should the operator find himself in a position of not being able to offer, for whatever reason, except for a personal reason of the tourist, an essen-tial part of the services included in the contract, he must offer alternative solu-tions, without additional cost to the price paid by the tourist and, if the ser-

GENERAL CONDITIONS

vices offered are of a lower value than those foreseen, the customer must be reimbursed exactly for the difference. In the case that no alternative solution is possible, or rather the solution of the operator is refused by the tourist for justifiable serious reasons, the operator will at no extra cost, provide the tourist with equivalent transport back to the place of departure or to another pre-agreed place depending on availability of the means and places. In this case the operator will compensate the tour-ist for the difference between the ser-vices to be supplied under the contract and those supplied to the moment of the early return.

10. TRANSFER OF BOOKINGSThe tourist who withdraws may trans-fer his booking to another person pro-vided that: a) the operator has been informed in writing at least 4 working days before the established departure date and also at the same time receives com-munication regarding all the details of the transferee; b) the transferee satisfies all the condi-tions to benefit from the service (ex. Article 39 Tourist’s Code) and in par-ticular with requisites regarding pass-ports, visas and medical certificates; c) the transferee must reimburse the operator any extra costs that he may incur in order to proceed with the transferral. The amount will be quanti-fied prior to the transferral. The trans-feror and the transferee shall be jointly and severally liable for the payment of the price of the package and also to the amounts in point c) of the present article.

11. OBBLIGATIONS FOR THE TOURISTSForeign citizens will find the informa-tion concerning health requirements and documentation necessary for expatriation through their diplomatic representatives present in Italy and/or through official government informa-tion channels. In any case, before departure the tourists must check any updates with the relevant authorities and come into line with the information received before the tour starts. In the absence of such verification the opera-tor cannot in any way be held respon-sible if one or more tourists do no depart. The tourists must be in pos-session of a personal passport or some other document valid for travel in the countries to be visited, as well as any tourist and transit visas and health certification that might be required. They must also respect the normal rules of prudence and dili-gence, all information provided to them by the operator and also any reg-ulations and administrative or legisla-tive requirements regarding their travel and tourist package. The participants will be liable for all and any damages that may be incurred by the holiday operator that may be caused by their failure to respect the above conditions. Tourists must provide the operator with all documents, information and other elements in their possession required for the exercise of operator’s right of subrogation with regard to third parties responsible for damages. The

tourists is liable towards the operator for any compromise to the right of subrogation. The tourist must also inform the operator in writing, at the moment of booking, of any special personal requests that may be the subject of specific agreements on details of the holiday (pregnancy, food intolerances, disabilities, etc.), as long as the implementation of these requests is possible.

12. HOTEL CLASSIFICATIONThe official category of hotels is described in the brochure or with alter-native informative material only on the basis of explicit and formal indications by the competent authorities in the country where the service is provided. In the absence of official recognised classification of the competent Public Authorities of the countries, even if members of the EU, the operator reserves the right to their own descrip-tion in the catalogue or brochure of the structure in order to permit an evalua-tion and subsequent acceptance of it by the tourist.

13. REGIME OF RESPONSIBILITYThe operator is responsible for damage caused to the tourist by the total or partial breach of contractual services owed, whether they are offered by him or by third party suppliers of services, unless proof can be given that the event derived from the tourist (also including initiatives carried out inde-pendently by the tourist) or by external circumstances in supplying contractual services, accidental cause, force majeure, or from circumstances that the operator could not, professionally or realistically foresee or resolve. The vendor where the booking for the tour-ist package was made is not held responsible under any circumstances for obligations that arise from the organisation of the journey, but is responsible exclusively for the obliga-tions that arise from the quality of mediation and therefore in the limits for such responsibility in respect of the legal obligations in force, except for the exemption under art. 46 Tourist’s Code.

14. LIMITS FOR COMPENSATIONCompensations under art(s). 44, 45 and 47 of the Tourist’s Code and rele-vant limitation periods are regulated by what is considered in this document and in any case within the limits estab-lished, by the C.C.V., by the Interna-tional Conventions, which regulate the services of the tourist package as well as by art.(s) 1783 and 1784 of the Civil Code.

15. OBLIGATION FOR ASSISTANCEThe operator must give assistance to the tourist with professional diligence and exclusively with reference to the obligations cited both by law and by contract. The operator and the vendor are exonerated from their responsibili-ties (articles 13 and 14 of these Gener-al Conditions) when the contract can-not be carried out in part or completely due to the tourist or due to an unfore-seeable or inevitable action by a third party, or rather fortuitous or by force majeure.

16. COMPLAINTS AND REPORTSAny failure in the enforcement of the contract must be contested by the tourist without delay during the tour so that the operator, his local representa-tive or assistant can rectify the situa-tion as quickly as possible. Otherwise the compensation will be reduced or excluded under art. 1227 C.C. The tourist must - on penalty of loss of any right to claims – make a written complaint by registered letter, with receipt of delivery, to the operator or the vendor no later than 10 working days after the date of return to the original place of departure.

17. INSURANCE AGAINST CANCELLATION EXPENSES AND REPATRIATIONIt is advisable for the tourist to draw up an insurance policy against expenses deriving from the cancellation of the package tour, incidents, luggage (loss and damage) as well as an assistance contract, which covers the expenses of repatriation in case of accident or ill-ness. Insurance policies are not included in our tour package offered by the operator.

18. NATIONAL GUARANTEE FUND (art. 51 Tourist’s Code)The Presidency of the Council of Min-isters has constituted a National Guar-antee Fund to which tourists may apply (under the terms of Art. 100 of the Consumer’s) in the case of insol-vency or bankruptcy of vendors or operators, for the protection of the fol-lowing rights:- reimbursement of price paid;- repatriation in case of holidays abroad. The fund must also ensure immediate availability of economic assistance in the case of obligatory return of holiday makers from non-European Union countries due to emergencies ascriba-ble or otherwise to the conduct of the operator. The details of the use of the fund are governed by Decree of the President of the Council of Ministers dated 23 July 1999. no. 349 G.U.n° 249 dated 12/10/1999 and the reim-bursement requests to the fund are not subject to any time limits. The operator concurs in nurturing this fund in so far as established by the comma 2 of the mentioned art. 51 Tourist’s Code by paying the premium of the insurance, which the operator is obliged to take out. Part of this premium is paid into the fund, the payment method is indi-cated by art. 6 of the DM 349/99.

ADDENDUM GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR CONTRACTS - SALE OF SINGLE TOURIST SERVICESA) LEGISLATION Contracts regarding the sale of single services (accommodation, transport, any separate tourist service) and those therefore that do not regard a tourist package, are governed by Travel Con-tracts CCV art. 1, 3 and 6, arts. 17 to 23 and arts. 24 to 31 with the exclu-sion of references regarding contracts for organised travel or from other spe-cific stipulations referring to the sale of single services in the contract. The

vendor, who provides for a third party, even in a telematic way, a separated tourist service, has to issue to the tourist the documents for the provided service, showing the amount paid for it, and cannot in any way be consid-ered a tour operator.B) CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT The following clauses of the general contractual conditions can be applied to these above mentioned contracts: art. 6 comma 1; art. 7, comma 2; art. 13 and art. 18. The application of these clauses does not render these contracts in any way those of a tourist package. The terms used in said clauses regarding contract for tourist packages (operator, travel etc) must be considered in reference to the corre-sponding figures of the purchasing contract for the single tourist services (vendor, accommodation etc.).

COMPULSORY NOTE According to the Italian Law n.269 dated 3/10/98, article 16. The Italian Law punishes the crimes concerning prostitution and juvenile pornography by means of reclusion even if these crimes are committed abroad.

PRIVACY Information regarding ex art. 13 of the Legislative Decree 196/2003 (legal code regarding personal data). The processing of personal data is carried out both on paper and digitally, in compliance with the Legislative Decree 196/2003, in order to perform and con-clude the contract and for the imple-mentation of the services that consti-tute the tourist package. Personal data will be given solely to the suppliers of the services included in the tourist package purchased. The tourist may at any time exercise his/her rights under art. 7 of the Legis-lative Decree 196/03 by contacting Bike Incoming informally, by telephone, or at [email protected]

TECHNICAL DATA Brochure valid from October 2014 to December 2015. Technical organisation: BIKE INCOMING S.R.L. exerts the activity as travel agency and tour operator in Via Conforto da Costozza, 7 - Vicenza, Italy Fiscal Code 03794470249Registred with no. VI-354659 at the companies registration list in Vicenza.Aut. Amm. of the province of Vicenza n° 22507 of 26/03/2013 Insurance guarantee: UnipolSai Assicurazioni no. 1/72935/319/40173402. All prices are in Euro.The printing ends in October 2014, changes might appear beyond our control. We apologize for any printing errors or omissions.


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

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

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

4 SEND US YOUR BOOKINGWithin this time send us the booking form (p. 83) and a copy of the deposit (25% of the total amount of the tour price).You can pay per credit card or per bank transfer on our account.

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

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

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

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

BANK ACCOUNT:Bike Incoming S.R.L.Banca Popolare Friuladria-Crédit AgricoleIBAN: IT54B0533660165000040277489BIC/SWIFT: BPPNIT2P189Reference: Name of the travel applicant + tour or webcode.

HOW TO BOOK

1

6

7

54

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

SAVING TIPS 2015*

Early booking discount (by 31st Jan. 15)

-5%

Early booking discount (by 28th Feb. 15)

-3%

Group discount (from 6 people) -3%

Group discount (from 8 people) -5%

Returning customer discount (from your 3rd tour) **

-5%

* Valid only on basic tour price and only for tours of min. 6 nights. Discounts are not cumulative if you book a Bike&Boat tour in high season.** extra 1% discount for any additional tour

Read all details on: www.girolibero.com

32

82

!

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

Tour and category .............................................................................................................................................. Webcode ..........................

Departure ................................................................................................................ o self-guided tour o guided tour

Treatment: o Bed&Breakfast o Half Board o Full Board

N° of rooms/cabins

...... Single

...... Double

...... Twin

...... Triple

...... 4 places

other type of cabin (Ave Maria only)

...... Bunk beds

...... Double superior

...... Twin superior

...... Triple superior

...... 4 places superior

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

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

Transfer: on ....................................................................................... from ................................... to ........................................

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

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

PaymentI pay through: o Bank transfer o Credit card

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

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

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

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

BOOKING FORMVia Conforto da Costozza 7 36100 Vicenza, ItalyTel: 0039 0444 330724 - Fax: 0039 0444 [email protected] - www.girolibero.com

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

Participants Bikes

Name, Surname Date of birth Height Own

Unisex bike Male bike

7 gears*

27 gears**

E-bike***

7 gears*

27 gears** Helmet

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COMUNE DICOMACCHIO

PROVINCIADI FERRARAUnited Nations

Educational, Scientific andCultural Organization

Ferrara, City ofthe Renaissanceand its Po Delta

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Documents

Girolibero brochure 2015