Italy

It's seven pm. you've just finished an intense day of biking through the hills of Tuscany.  You're exhausted but invigorated by the complete high of accomplishment.  How do you celebrate? By diving into an incredible bowl of fresh pasta with homemade tomato sauce, paired with a glass of local chianti. With the first bite, you finally understand the meaning of true Italian food, and wonder why you ever wasted your time with the store bought (or restaurant bought) stuff from the United States. 

Ok, perhaps I'm being slightly harsh on American-Italian food, but I am not remotely over-exaggerating the unbelievable tastes your palate will experience on your Austin-Lehman Tuscany bike tour. Italy, and Tuscany in particular, is a stunningly beautiful part of the world.  It is steeped in rich culture and history, and food plays a very large part of that.  As you can probably tell, it happens to be one of my favorite parts about the country.  Personally, I've had some of the best meals of my life in Italy, one of which was at an intimate, candle lit enoteca (wine bar) in Siena.  It had barrel-vaulted ceilings and a menu resplendent with Italian delicacies. I ordered a glass of wine from the Sangiovese region of Tuscany. (I later learned that it was a mere 50 miles away from where I was sitting, and that the style of wine dated back to the fourteenth century.)  I turned my attention to the menu, and my eyes lighted on the gnocchi.  This wasn't just any gnocchi... it had a porcini sauce and was topped with local wild boar. I was sold. I'm a pretty adventurous eater, and am always game to try local specialties. After seeing several boar heads in the shops across Tuscany, I couldn't resist the chance to try it.

Quite frankly, my writing skills are not adequate enough to give this meal its dues, but I will do my best.  First of all, gnocchi (or pasta filled with potato) is small in Italy (unlike most places that I've encountered it in the US.) It is the perfect bite.  Add fresh mushrooms and succulent boar to that, and when I say the perfect bite, it's no joke.  The wild boar was beyond expectations.  It was incredibly tender, and not as sweet as pork typically is, the flavor was out of this world.  I hope to one day return to Tuscany and try the delicacy again. Until then, I'll always consider it one of my best meals ever!

Happy travels,

Blake

 

 

For me when I think of biking tours, I think of Tuscany bike tours. Maybe it's the scenic routes, the history, the architecture, cuisine, maybe it's even the wine... but regardless of why Tuscany comes to mind; it is a remarkable place to bike though. I got the opportunity to go on our Tuscany tour last year and I was a bit blown away. I had been to Italy before but had only gotten to go to Milan for a couple of days. No disrespect on Milan, but Tuscany was best explained by one of our guest on the trip "This is like a fairy tale... this is the Italy I've always dreamed off." That quote was while biking from Siena to San Gimignano on one of my favorite routes I've ever ridden.

The nostalgia of the Tuscany region is what really makes biking there special, what makes it a treat is after a long day of biking enjoying a glass of vino from a local vineyard that you rode by earlier that day.  

Farewell dinner at Hotel Paggeria Medicea in Artimino

I personally think that seeing a country by bike is the best way to see a country, you get an intimate experience with the routes, the towns, the people and it gives you the ability to see things at your pace. You just can't get that same experience by a bus tour or even renting a car and driving through a country.

Want to see a little bit more of our Tuscany bike tours? Check out our photo gallery on Tuscany

You friendly biker,

Jonathan

P.S. Leave a comment and tell me why you would love do a bike tour in Tuscany, we're always excited to hear why people want to travel.

Looking to plan your next dream vacation?  Perhaps you are one of those travelers that want nothing on the agenda for the day, just  a nice relaxing retreat on a white sandy beach with a piña colada in hand.  Maybe your sense of adventure is only perked up when you think about experiencing an adrenline pumping activity like rafting or mountain biking. On the other hand, maybe you are the type of traveller that interest spikes when you hear the words buttery, delectable, rich and flavorful. Austin-Lehman Adventures is not one to over look the span of delicious foods, wines, sweets and cuisine’s that differ around the world.  If you are a traveler who likes to experience culture through the different flavors of the world then Culinary and Gourmet Vacations may be the next must try experience for the foodie in you.  

Visit A Vineyard In France

What better place to sip on a glass of Burgundy wine then in the famous town itself in the heart of France.  As one of the most famous and influential wine growing regions in the world, Burgundy is a beautiful location for any wine enthusiast.  Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply love the varieties of flavors, Burgundy is sure to impress. The wine will not be the only memorable part of your vacation however; the rich flavors of a lobster ravioli, foie gras, and homemade ice cream soufflé will all be the talk of the evening as you indulge in some of the most flavorful foods France has to offer. Whether you are up for a Burgundy cycling tour or prefer to explore the medieval castles of Loire Valley or the shorelines of Brittany and Normandy, with Austin Lehman you will be assured delicious wines, flavors, and gourmet adventures. 

Appreciate An Adventure In Austria

The Austrian Alps are a delight for not only the eyes but also for the pallet.  Austria tours offer snowcapped mountains, expansive lakes, and 14,000-year-old glacier carved gorges.  These should be reason enough to head to this visual paradise.  Austria has a delicious variety of local wines that pair fantastically with local Austrian cheeses and fruits.   You can anticipate savory flavors with creams, mustards, and delicious capers.  A great way to finish off a wonderful dinner is with a rich cup of traditional Austrian coffee, then unwind in your postcard-perfect accommodations.  

Delve Into Denmark

A Danish Isles adventure is sure to caress your taste buds with its famous flavors for local seafood and use of high quality local produce.  You will need to experience Smørrebrød (or a local open-faced sandwich) on a variety of different breads  accompanied by your choice of salmon, prawns or breaded fish. Denmark is not just a great place to experience delicious cuisine, but also it offers a backdrop of sheer cliffs, and dune-swept beaches.  Tour the country by island hopping through the rolling countryside with historic ruins, ancient castles, and colorful fishing villages.  From visiting historical museums to watching the changing of the guards, you will be entertained on every day of your trip.  Your Danish Isles Bike Tour is a fantastic way to enjoy the delicious taste of Denmark.

A Toast in Napa Valley

For the foodie Napa and Sonoma have become synonymous with award winning wines and elegant dining.   For the adventurer Napa and Sonoma are prime for hiking, kayaking, and biking California’s stunning grassland, mountain trails, and pristine bays. Something that both the foodie and the adventurer can enjoy is the regions wine. Napa’s first commercial winery was established in 1861 from which the industry quickly grew due to fantastic climate for grape vineyards.  Today Napa boasts more than 300 vineyards and is an ideal location for wine connoisseurs and fans alike. Napa Valley is located in the greater bay area of Northern California and enjoys a warm climate with mild winters. The perfect place to spend a summer vacation! No matter what your craving, this gourmet Wine Tour of California is everything you could imagine and more.  

Tantalize your Taste buds in Tuscany

Every fan of delicious food and wines, have once upon a time dreamed of the amazing aromas that Tuscan kitchens have to offer.  A region of Italy known for its delicious cuisine is a dream location for anyone who loves to experience great food while traveling.  Not only is the food and wine a treat for your senses but also a dream for cycling tours.  While the foodie in you can bask in the delicious authentic flavors of the finest extra virgin olive oil, the cyclist in you can charge the country side by bike. There is also the chance to marvel at the renaissance landmarks such as the breathtaking Dummo, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio and the Pitti Palace.  No list of gourmet travel adventures would be complete without listing a Tuscany Bike Tour. 

Are you hungry now? If so, follow your senses and check out our Culinary and Gourmet Vacations. 

OR

Check out some photos from some our Gourmet and Culinary Vacations on Pinterest.

  

Today I was dreaming about Tuscany, not sure if it was because I was hungry or because I was dreaming about being out on the open road with my bike. None the less I wanted to share some memories I had from one of my cycling tours I have done in Italy, specifically my bike ride from Florence to Sienna...

First things first, I am positive that a biking is the best way to spend your European vacation. Biking just gives you the freedom to explore what you want, at the pace you want. You experience so much more by biking, then you would walking or taking a tour bus. We left Florence early in the morning and drove south an hour to Castellina in Chianti, where we started the day of cycling. The weather was perfect that day, sunny and warm. Right before we started our ride from Castellina, our wonderful guide George surprised us with a silver platter of dried fruit, a great boost of energy before a long ride. Then we set out on our biking tour to Siena, with four of our guest trying out the new E-bikes (electric bikes).

Right off the bat you see the beauty of the Tuscany region, vineyards and classic Italian homes spread out through the countryside as far as the eye can see. We had an early lunch in Radda and then set out to continue our real Italian cycling tour. Sometimes in order to get the best views of an area you have to work for it and Italy makes you work for some of those views with its hills, but with hard work comes reward and after each hill there was an incredible view and a nice long downhill to follow.

Once we biked into Siena you are greeted by medieval buildings and bright red brick buildings. The nostalgia that Siena packs is quite impressive and the city fits my perfect image Italy. 

Well that's it for now, got to get back to real life and stop dreaming...

Your friendly biker,

Jonathan

   

First off I need to be honest, I'm not much of a foodie and quite the picky eater. But even for a picky eater like me Tuscany spoiled my taste buds. A European vacation is probably the best time to step out and enjoy the the taste of a country, especially when your on a bike tour in Tuscany! There is nothing like stopping at a local gelateria in the middle of a long bike ride and enjoying the silky smooth taste of Italian gelato. I don't want to go as far as to say it's heaven... But it's pretty close! Then you have diner, which is prime time to refuel after a long day of biking. I just couldn't get enough of the local bread and olive oil... stuffing myself at every meal on it. But I always saved some room for the main course and of course I ate a lot of pasta's and pizza while I was there. Maybe it wasn't so much of stepping out of my comfort zone for food, but trust me when I say I enjoyed it! Last but not least there is the wine... This one is new to me, being fairly young and not much of a drinker I wasn't too keen on wine before I went to Italy. But leave it to a wine tasting tour in Tuscany to develop my palette for wine. My favorite and one you need to try (especially if you're not into red wine) is prosecco, which is a white wine made from the Glera (Prosecco)  grape. Now I need to go make some pasta and have a glass of prosecco!

Your friendly Tuscany lover,

Jonathan

 

 

We all know the famous gourmet regions of the world: France, Italy, Peru, New York City, Las Vegas, the Napa Valley… But, I am a firm believer that any vacation can be turned into a “gourmet vacation”.  Good food is all around and you can find it just about anywhere as long as you are willing to put a bit of effort into finding it.  My number one tip for finding the best food in any city is to ask a local.  Where do the locals eat?  Chances are it is a neighborhood café with an organic garden in the backyard or it is an Irish pub with no advertising and no sign out front or it is a food truck parked on the corner of Main and 8^th Street only on Tuesdays and Thursdays.   These are all local gems that could easily be overlooked.

So often in our regular lives we eat things that are quick, easy and we rarely take the time to slow down and really enjoy eating.  Vacation really should be the time to slow down, find a local bistro and really enjoy your food.  A gourmet vacation doesn’t always have to feature expensive meals or a 5 star restaurant with a celebrity chef.  It really should be about enjoying the company you are with and tasting all that an area has to offer. You know the old saying “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”.  Some of my most memorable meals while traveling have been in small town café’s served by an owner or at a tiny restaurant with few tables and a line out the door. 

I highly recommend skipping the famous restaurant chains.  Where’s the fun in eating something you can get around the corner at home?  Even if you are in the mood for a quick burger, I suggest giving the local drive-in a try and skipping the burger chain you can find in every city.  I bet you will find a great burger and maybe even that tasty shake you haven’t had in 20 years.  It is vacation! 

Every area has their specialty.  Every town has a café that makes the best omelet or has a bar and grill with the best happy hour.  If you don’t look, you are really missing out!  I promise the next time you are in Grand Forks, North Dakota you will find the best fried pickles you have ever tasted at a little restaurant called The Toasted Frog.  Ask anyone in town!

Your Friendly Travel Consultant,

Melissa Ladvala

 

While all of our adventure vacations are filled with some sort of physical activity such as biking, hiking and kayaking, we don’t want all the foodies out there to think we forgot them. In fact, as most anyone who has been on our trips will tell you, the food is incredible.

No matter which country or which adventure, our guests start out the day with a high energy breakfast to get them ready to go experience all the thrills of their destination. Each evening will find them back dining on deliciously prepared campfire vittles or five star gourmet fare. And many of our European vacations will also find adults sipping fine wines from the best regions of wine country.

Our gourmet adventures are combined with the best of our biking and hiking vacations. Our adventurers may choose the gourmet fare of wine regions in California, Chile/Argentina or the rich, delectable foods of Italy, France and Germany. Some of our adventures even include cooking classes to get you started making your own gourmet goodies.

Stop by our website to find out more about gourmet adventures to your choice of destination and get started planning your trip of a lifetime today.
 

When guests are first trying to decide on their destination, we are often asked which one of our cycling tours is the best. Frankly, they all are. We put a lot of time and effort into planning and arranging the locations, activities and accommodations for our bike adventure vacation packages. That’s what adventure travel companies such as ours are all about – to handle every detail of your vacation so that you can sit back, and well, enjoy the ride.

Many travelers spend so much time planning and preparing for their vacations that by the time they get back home, they need a vacation from their vacation. That’s not what happens on an Austin-Lehman adventure at all. Our friendly and professional guides give you the experience of a lifetime so you just need to bring yourself, friends or family and a camera. We take care of every little element in our 17 biking tours.  Our cycling adventures are for singles, couples and families and all skill levels.

Our biking vacations will take you to South Dakota or various locales in Europe including Austria, Denmark, France, Italy, Germany, Spain or Holland. We even have a biking vacation in the South American wine country of Chile and Argentina.

No matter which bike adventure you choose, we are here to make your vacation memories last a lifetime.   
 

Engaged couples often find that one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding is deciding on the honeymoon. While many grooms want to surprise the bride with the wedding trip destination, brides also want to have a choice in this once in a lifetime trip.

Surely an adventure vacation for couples is just the right type of getaway to inspire tales repeated to children and grandchildren as you grow old and gray together. So at the start of your life together, our adventure tours promise to provide the happy couple with great memories of fun, pampering, dining, biking, hiking, culture and education all wrapped up into one package. We handle every detail including activities, accommodations and dining. The bride and groom just need to be prepared for experiencing everything that their destination of choice has to offer.

Fortunately, there are many journeys to choose from because our travel itineraries include locations in North, Central and South America as well as Europe and Africa. For Mountain adventure getaways with skiing, kayaking and wilderness exploration, couples will find their choice of Canada, Rocky Mountains, Alaska or Grand Canyon vacations.

Those who want to experience foreign cultures and breathtaking scenery will find our European vacations  just right for honeymoon vacations. With trips to France, Spain, Italy and more, honeymooners will enjoy biking, gourmet dining and walking through picturesque villages and wineries.

For an unforgettable honeymoon, join us on one of our journeys as you begin your first days together as a married couple.
 

Experience all the splendors of Italy and Austria wrapped into one cycling tour that brings travelers to famed towns throughout the region: Tyrol, Innsbruck and Trentino. Eat mouthwatering cuisine; see the spectacular golden green countryside and the majestic peaks of the Alps on your adventure through these two beautiful countries.

Cycling tours through Europe are perfect for the traveler who doesn’t want to miss a thing. Follow the beautiful Etsch River on a calm ride starting in Innsbruck, Austria all the way to Lake Garda, Italy. Don’t forget your camera – you will surely want to stop and take pictures of the Alps that provide you with an absolutely stunning backdrop on your journey.

Pedal to the charming village of Bolzano, where the Museum of Archaeology displays a mummified corpse discovered in the 1990s after spending more than 5,000 years frozen in the Alpine ice. Cyclists can wind their way down the Inn River and arrive at the Stams Abbey, and then make their way to Imst where over 30 amazing fountains grace the enchanting town.

The countries of Italy and Austria are simply not to be missed. Their vitality, sophistication and beauty are unparalleled. Austin Lehman Adventures offers unforgettable adventure trips  to these locations for those in search of the journey of a lifetime. Call us today to learn more about our European vacations.
 

There are some 200 miles of Dalmatian coastline and a lifetime of adventure vacations spent getting to know the sheer beauty of the area would certainly be a lifetime well spent. The Adriatic coastline experiences warm waters and gentle predictable winds throughout the summer. It also features scores of islands with deeply wooded slopes.  The entire coastline appears to be a concrete free zone (don’t look too closely though) and is one enchanting bay after another.  Fishing villages, tiny marinas and small groves where oranges, lemons, figs and olives grow in plenty all mix to provide a holiday experience unlike any other.

Split is the second city in the area after Dubrovnik, and it hides a rare phenomenon. Make a visit here the centerpoint of your European vacation because the city is home to the palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian.  The palace is probably the best preserved Roman ruin in existence and was originally built as the retirement home for the Emperor who was the only one to leave office of his own accord.  The palace is 31,000 square meters and was constructed in just 10 years using marbles imported from the best quarries in Italy, sphinxes imported from Egypt and statues looted from Greece.  The palace bore witness then and now to the power of Rome.  Extensive work was done on the palace during medieval times, but the true enormity of the building can still be clearly seen.  A city break on our cycling tours to the palace today shows the strength of the Roman Empire as the palace is still in use.  Within the palace, 220 buildings house more than 3,000 people running small businesses selling artisan goods.  

The markets paint a very vivid picture of life within the confines of the palace and the size of the structure dominates the entire area of the old city, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. Join us for European vacations of a lifetime, and start the journey by visiting our online travel catalog to learn more.
 

A European vacation with adventure travel companies such as ours creates the perfect design for combining the diversity of Italy and Austria together.

The paths for road cycling are spread all over the beautiful valleys and plateaus with stunning Alps as the backdrop. Discover Tyrol pedaling around historical castles, fortresses and vibrant cities. Let the passionate cyclist in you bike along the Alpine river Inn and reach Innsbruck, the Alpine metropolis, and take a well deserved break to feast on finger licking local delicacies and traditional food.

Cycling tours in Europe are a pleasure for all senses as you marvel at the timeless beauty of historical monuments and pass through nature’s gifted sites. Being in the heart of the Austrian Alps is a pure heavenly experience. As you enjoy your day’s adventures pedaling through cities like Schwaz and Lienz, you can also enjoy the nightlife of Tyrol.  Exploring the high Alpine landscape on a mountain bike will take your breath away.

Be sure to take your picture standing at the trio point where Austria, Switzerland and Italy meet together on their borders. Visit the church of St. Procolo that was once a Roman temple and now known as a “place of energy” as it stands amidst blossoming apple trees.

Check out the world famous extraordinary private collection of armor in the Churburg Castle. The museum of Archeology housed in the small village of Bolzano shows the harmony between modern and contemporary art. The adventure travel in Italy and Austria gives you an awe inspiring experience that allows adventurers to travel across cities that are both traditional and modern at the same time.
 

Tuscany is the land of Prime Ministers, rock stars and folks on a cycling tour with the latter being the best way of savoring this delightful part of Italy.  The landscape of gently rolling hills, terracotta colors and pencil thin Cypress trees looking as though they are drawing wispy white clouds in the sky is what postcards back home are made of.

Florence is a must for anybody on a European vacation. It is a tourist dream with prices to match so get off the tourist trail to really sample what the city is like.  Find the time to savor the experience that is the Italian Florence of narrow streets and local cafes.  Getting back onto the tourist trail reminds travelers that the seat of the Renaissance makes cities such as Siena and Florence places to be gently marveled at and not completely seen in a day.  It is very pretty and the single best thing to do is to get up high above the roof tops.  Try the Duomo Dome. Take the tour up, and get outside to look across the cityscape of gently rolling roof tops with terracotta colors that look as though its inspiration was taken from very landscape the city springs from.

As the home of European culture from the Renaissance to the modern day, never visit Tuscany without sampling at least two scoops of Italian ice cream a day.  Handmade and in flavors that sound much like a guided tour of a fruit shop, seeking out a daily dose is the highlight of any adventure trip.

Stop by our online travel catalog to learn more about Italy tours and other exciting family adventure vactions for you and your loved ones.
 

Mouthwatering cuisine, stunning golden-green vineyards and rolling hills surround you in the lovely and vibrant Tuscany, Italy.

A European Vacation perfect for the traveler looking for a vivacious city and old-fashioned charm, Tuscany is a location that can’t be beat. Globally admired for its natural beauty, quaint streets and delicious wines, it is considered to be the true origin of the Italian Renaissance. Austin Lehman Adventures offers matchless adventure trips to this stunning location.

Tuscany has something for everyone. Shoppers can spend time perusing along cobblestone streets and through open-air markets. Art lovers will appreciate the architectural masterpieces that adorn the region. For travelers looking for something as deliciously appetizing as the exemplary vineyards, extra-virgin olive oil is a must taste.

The country of Italy is not to be missed. Its vitality and sophistication are unparalleled. Spend the day biking through the rolling hills of Chianti Classico and soaking up the warm rays of the sun. Then unwind with a glass of crisp, delightful wine in your comfortable hotel room with an unrivaled view of the Tuscan countryside.

Austin Lehman is your go-to adventure travel company if you’re looking to go to a magical place. Call us today to schedule your family adventure vacation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuscany is a region of Italy with great artistic heritage. Its capital, Florence, is home to Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, David.  If you are looking for one of the best destinations for adventure vacations for couples, this is the place.

Tuscany is both a romantic and adventure getaway. Imagine you and your beau pedaling together through rolling hills in the picturesque countryside.  Cycling tours are aplenty in Tuscany.  Cycling legends like Cipollini and Bettini trained in this panoramic district. It is no surprise to meet other cycling enthusiasts ply the same scenic route.

Tuscany’s vineyards produce some of the best wines in the region. Dine with your amour to Tuscan cuisine like steak Florentine and other dishes made from legumes, mushrooms, bread, cheese and fruits.  Try a dessert like Paneforte di Siena. Cap the meal with a glass of wine such as Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino. Walk along the streets of Florence and marvel at the creations of the street artists. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, a Gothic cathedral and one of Italy’s largest churches.  Shop at open markets in Florence and take home a souvenir or two.  Italy is famous for their impeccable leather craftsmanship.

These are just glimpses of the many romantic activities you can enjoy in Tuscany. Start planning your European vacation today by checking out our travel itineraries online.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For the perfect blend of romance and adventure, the European vacation is ideal. Austin Lehman’s adventure vacations for couples will make you fall in love all over again as they take you on a journey filled with action, relaxation and pampering your senses. The two of you can experience wine tasting in Italy and thrilling biking trips in Tuscany along the rugged hillside while passing alongside magnificent villas and delightful vineyards.

The Country of France also welcomes you with its vibrancy, sophistication and high fashion. You can hit the sandy beaches or just soak under the sun and later savor delightful French cuisine. Enjoy time together pedaling at your own pace through the towns and villages that once inspired Van Gogh and absorb their beautiful atmosphere.

To make the cycling trips turn into real adventure vacations you can even bike the rocky and rugged mountains of the Alpilles surrounding Les Baux-de-Provence.  After a day full of activities, pamper yourself with a silent walk through the ancient castles and enjoy the weather and scenery as you sip a glass of fine French wine.

If you have not yet decided where to go for your honeymoon or anniversary, leave it to us. Even if you already have a plan in mind, give our experts a call at (800) 575-1540 to create a customized trip specially made for you and your amour.
 

With Valentine’s Day just a few days away, the thoughts of many men and women go to finding just the right gift to express their love and appreciation for that someone special. Why not consider adventure vacations for couples? Time away from the real world – kids, work and responsibilities – may be just the thing to add a little romance to bring couples back to the days when they first met.

Adventure Vacation Packages
Adventurous couples may enjoy an active vacation filled with hiking, rock climbing or cycling tours. Our adventure trips are worldwide journeys for couples to experience nature’s beauty up close. Stay closer to home in Arizona, South Dakota or Montana. Venture further by traveling to Italy, Peru, Chile or France. Pretty much anywhere there are mountains, trails and picturesque scenery, there’s an adventure waiting.

Romantic Getaways
For those who desire a little more one on one time, our gourmet and wine tasting trips may be just the ideal getaway. Touring historic cities and sites and then spending evenings with fine wines and gourmet dining in California or European cities offers a more intimate time to revive and refresh relationships.

Exotic Destinations
Getting away from it all and experiencing the exhilarating rush of viewing wild animals in their natural habitat while on safari tour will certainly add some heart stopping action to a couple’s relationship. Visit the bush in Africa or the jungles of South America and allow these exotic destinations to capture the essence of what being together is all about.

Learn more about our vacation destination packages by calling us at (800) 575-1540 or visiting our 2012 digital vacation catalog.

If – during my 38 years of guiding bicycle tours – I would have gotten $10 for every time someone asked me what’s my favorite ride, I would no longer need to work. Not that I’d ever want to quit my job, because I love it so much!

Naturally, being the salesman that I am, my answer would always be a trip they hadn’t done yet.

But here it is, my official Top 10…, eh….Top 11 best bike rides in Europe (and there’s no way these can be ordered, because they all have their reasons why they should be #1)

1) France: Dordogne valley between Argentat and Beynac (110 miles); One of my favorite regions of France, for its authenticity, the peace, the great food, the old Romanesque churches, the castles and the history (such as the Hundred Years War between France and England). Make sure to divert from the valley every now and then to visit villages like St-Céré, Autoire, Loubressac, Rocamadour, as well as the lively town of Sarlat.

2) Italy: South-Tyrol from Reschen Pass to Merano(50 miles); Starting at the top of the pass, it’s all pretty much all downhill for about 50 miles on specially marked bike paths, and you’re always surrounded by some of the most majestic mountains of the Alps. Pass by villages, lakes, meadows, apple orchards and end your ride in the noble spa town of Merano.

3) Italy: The Tuscan hills around Siena; Tuscany has some of the prettiest hills in the world. Surely you have seen those epic photos of fields of red poppies, the cypresses, the ‘Siena’ colors of the soil, multiple horizons and hill-top towns like Monteriggioni and San Gimignano. Seeing it from the bicycle seat is like immerging into this landscape of Chianti Classico and the eternal ‘Le Crete’ hills.

4) Spain: Rioja vineyards between Logroño and Haro (35 miles); this is best done in the fall (October), when the leaves are turning. The colors are so incredible no matter in which direction you look. And you’ve got the roads to yourself. Villages/towns to include are La Puebla de la Barca, Laguardia, Navaridas, Elciego, Baños de Ebro, San Vicente, Rivas de Tereso, and of course Haro. Prepare yourself for some hills. And be sure to visit some of the tapas bars in Haro for an unforgettable and fun meal while mingling with the locals!

5) Germany: Tauber Valley from Rothenburg to Wertheim (63 miles); Take two days to follow the Tauber river until its confluence with the Main river. It’s easy to follow, and you’ll pass through many villages and medieval towns without having to study the map. Don’t forget to visit the splendidly carved Riemenschneider altar pieces in Rothenburg, Detwang and Creglingen.

6) Germany: Mosel Valley from Trier to Koblenz (132 miles); You’ll need four days to do this stretch. Every couple of miles you’ll pass another quaint wine village, each tempting you with its delicious white Riesling wine. Throughout the trip you will always be surrounded by the steep hills covered with vineyards, whereas you stay on you bicycle down by the river. Essentially, it can be considered as a downhill trip (very, very gently) and you are even making use of the prevailing winds. Numerous Roman buildings to be discovered in Trier, and a hilltop castle or ruin around every bend of the river .

7) Austria: Salzach Valley from  Gerlos Pass/Krimml to Salzburg (115 miles); This could very easily be the most scenic of all the routes listed here. With the snowcapped Grossglockner and many other mountains by your side, enjoy lots of downhill and flat meadows (and a few ups) as you descend from Gerlos Pass (1628m = 5340 ft) to Salzburg (443m = 1450 ft).

8) Austria: Danube Valley from Linz or Enns to Krems (80 miles); Easy cycling along the wide river makes this an unforgettable experience. Especially the stretch through the wine region Wachau between Melk and Dürnstein (23 miles) is some of the most pleasant cycling you’ll encounter anywhere in Europe. And be sure to visit the Baroque abbey of Melk: it’s a masterpiece!

9) Netherlands: the canals of Giethoorn (4 miles); This community is nicknamed Venice of the North because there are no roads as all transportation takes place on the canals. One cyclable path passes through the village, consisting of an endless string of humpback bridges. Stay in low gear and do it either in early in the morning or evening. It’s outrageous! However, you should feel comfortable on the bike, because it does take some skill to negotiate the bridges.

10) Netherlands: Tulip fields near Keukenhof (in April: 20 miles); does this need any further explanation? The colors and the scents of the flowers (tulips, narcissus, hyacinth) get you high…, in a natural way! And the North-Sea is nearby, across over the dunes.

11) Denmark: Danish Riviera between Copenhagen and Helsingør (30 miles); the route consists of bike paths along Denmark’s ‘gold coast’, consisting of sumptuous villas, quaint fishing villages, and dotted with interesting museums such as the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa), the Nivagaard art museum and the supreme Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in an incredible setting overlooking the Sound.

your friendly European expert,

Ron van Dijk

Solo Italy trip!

Traveling solo is an amazing opportunity to see the world. It gives you the freedom to do what you want, when you want. Although I enjoy traveling with friends and family, some of my best memories were from trips where I traveled by myself. Traveling with friends and family can keep you from branching out and meeting new people. Traveling solo pushes you to try new things and meet new people, something that I think is a necessity when traveling. Trust me, I know the thought of getting on a plane and going to another country by yourself, where they don’t speak your native language and you don’t know anyone; can be a little overwhelming. That is why I came up with my top 10 tips for planning your solo adventure.

1. Be prepared- Have a detailed list of all your flights, trains/buses and hotels. As basic as that sounds, it is good to cover all the bases when traveling solo. I know I have found myself caught up into the moment and rushed the basics and forgotten important details. I find creating a packing list is very helpful and then checking that list the night before you leave. It helps you sleep a little better the night before a big trip when you feel comfortable that you have everything. Making a contact list is another good idea and print everything out. Also be mentally prepared, prepare for the time differences, prepare for some culture shock and prepare to be in some sticky situations. Freaking out when you are by yourself is the worse, so just be prepared to roll with the punches.

2. Have a back up plan- Make a copy of your passport that you take with you, I always carry a photo copy of my passport in my wallet and leave my passport in the safe box at the hotel. Although it is highly recommend to have your passport on you at all times when traveling abroad, I find a copy will work in most situations. Have a back up bank card and cash, please DON’T EVER carry all of your money and credit cards in the same place. I always have a back up bank card or travelers card and some cash in another bag, just in case something happens to my wallet.

3. Keep an open mind- You’re traveling to another country, a lot of things will be different! Food, culture, traditions and personalities aren’t the same every where you go, so don’t judge. Be open to new foods, join in a local tradition, make an effort to meet some locals, try something new! A good phrase to remember is “you only live once”, so step outside of your bubble and take advantage of being somewhere new.

4. Be social- You never know who you’ll meet and people are a lot friendlier than you think. I can’t even count how many times that just taking that first step to introduce myself to someone led me onto a new adventure or made a lifelong friend. Here are some good icebreakers: ask for directions and then ask a question like, where is a good place to eat or where do all the locals hangout. Make the effort to make the first contact, I have asked someone for directions and then ended up hanging out with them and their friends at the coolest local spots. I have even had people walk me to the destination I was looking for, people are just generally nice if you give them the chance.

5. Know some basic phrases-  This ties into #4, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten a great reaction by trying to speak the language vs blurting out what I needed in English. No one cares if you “slaughter” their language and no one expects you to be fluent, but knowing the basics can go along way. Here are a few basic ones to know: Hello, please, thank you, how much?, I am looking for, I’m lost, can you help me? and do you speak English?. Just knowing a few phrases will go a long way,  you can use them as an icebreaker to meet  some locals as well. I usually pick up a phrase book before I go and study the basics. It’s always handy to keep it on you, just incase you need it. Here is some basic language tips for 5 common languages that are a great read before your trip.

6. Don’t have set plans- Roll with it, sometimes plans change for the better! Obviously you want to have a full schedule in order to make the most of your time, but be sure to have some wiggle room in case you find something better to do. Sometimes I’ll be set on seeing something and then meet someone who tells me it is a waste of time and suggest something much better to see. Just keep in mind that plans don’t have to be set in stone.

7. Take photos- You don’t have to be a professional photographer or have a fancy $5,000 camera to capture great moments or beautiful photos. Having a small digital camera that you can keep in your pocket or purse is priceless when those special moments arise. Also take a ton of photos and bring an extra memory card, you never know when that perfect photo will happen. If nothing else, it is a great way to relive the moment when you get home.

8. Keep a journal- Keeping a journal is also a good way to kill downtime and gives you the opportunity to recap your travels when you get home. Just because your friends couldn’t make it doesn’t mean you can’t share your travels with them when you get back! Time and time again I’ll go back and read my writings from my travels and be so excited to be reminded of a great time that I forgot about.

9. Be yourself- A lot of times people find themselves playing a roll and think traveling gives them the chance to be whoever they want to be. Just be you! Here is a quote from a friend that is priceless in this situation. “If you’re just being yourself, then know your bringing something that nobody else is brining- because nobody’s you. And that’s the beauty about being here on this earth, is that you’re you. So be it.” – Lonnie Kauk

10. Be confident- Yes, being alone in a new place can cause some anxiety. But it doesn’t mean that you have to let it get the best of you, whenever you feel overwhelmed take a step back and remember you are there to have fun. Confidence is a huge part of that, whether it is trying something new, venturing out with strangers or just introducing yourself; be confident! Sometimes having confidence when you’re alone and in a new place can be difficult, but trying is better than not trying. Don’t succumb to your fears and make the most of every situation.

That is it for my top 10 tips for planning your solo adventure, I hope these help and be sure to check out all of our travel planning resource for adventure travel.

your friendly solo traveler,

Jonathan Burnham