Wine Country

There’s only one word to describe Argentina…

Tranquillo.

It translates to calm, peaceful and, well, tranquil.

And during my trip to Argentina last year, I fell in love with Argentina and immersed myself in a tranquillo state of mind.

As the eighth largest country in the world, Argentina has something for everyone.  From lively Buenos Aires to the wildlife haven of Patagonia and Mendoza’s wine regions, this South American country is truly tranquillo.

And if that isn’t enough, here are six reasons why you’ll love Argentina…

1. The City of Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina and is located on the Atlantic coast, and it’s no wonder, the city’s’ name translates to “Good Air.”

Buenos Aires is broken into neighborhoods (barrios) that each have their own personality and special characteristics.

• Palermo has a young vibe with botanical gardens, a zoo and hip restaurants.
• Recoleta is an upscale area with countless plazas, parks, and the historic cemetery where Eva María Duarte de Perón (aka Evita), Argentina’s First Lady from 1946 to 1952 – rests today. 
• Monserrat has famous Plaza de Mayo and excellent shopping in the galerias.
• Puerto Madero is the old port district that rapidly changed into a trendy business center with limitless hotels and restaurants.  This area is great for walking.
• La Boca is a vibrant area that sits at the mouth of the Matanza River.  It’s famous for its colorful buildings and tango dancers.

Navigating to each of the barrios is easy and inexpensive using the city’s subway (subte) and bus system.

Plaza de Mayo

2. World-class Cuisine

Argentina’s cuisine is strongly influenced by Italian and Spanish cultures. Common dishes include cheeses, olives, and cured meats. 

But Argentina is best known for their high-quality beef that includes:

• Tenderloin (bife de lomo)
• Skirt steak (entraña)
• Short ribs (asado de tira)
• Flank steak (vacío)
• Sirloin/NY strip (bife de chorizo)

Most beef is served with potatoes and chimichuri – a sauce made with parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.

For snack lovers, pizza and empanadas – a meat stuffed pastry – are also very popular. 

For desert, you’ll have an array of options with bakeries nearly on every corner.  The most famous sweets usually contain dulce de leche, which tastes and looks similar to caramel. 

Don’t expect a big breakfast.  Argentines prefer a light breakfast usually consisting of cappuccino or espresso and small croissants (media lunas) followed by a heavy lunch with steak and potatoes or pizza.

Pizza in Argentina

3. Premium Wine Tasting

Argentina’s the fifth largest wine producing region in the world but they’ve starting to make the shift from quantity to quality, producing more premium wines.  Their most notable wines are Malbec and Torrontes.

• Malbec is a dark, red wine that has hints of cherry and plum.  It’s no surprise it pairs perfectly with beef.
• Torrontes is a white wine that’s known as “the liar” because it has a sweet Muscat smell with a dry taste.

Most of Argentina’s wine regions hug the Andes mountain range as it’s an ideal climate and terrain for vineyards. 

Mendoza is located at the base of the Andes (about an 11 hour bus ride west from Buenos Aires) and is a great city for wine tasting. 

Wine Store in Mendoza

4. Charismatic People

Most Argentines are descendants of European immigrants – mostly Spanish and Italian - who settled in Argentina during the 18th and 19th centuries. 

Argentines are friendly, curious, and engaging.  Not to mention beautiful! 

Argentines have a strong sense of community so it’s common to see people chatting on the street corner or in cafes.

Wine Tour Guide

5. Tierra del Fuego in Patagonia

Tierra del Fuego translates to “Land of Fire" and is an archipelago on the southernmost part of the South America.  The main island Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego is shared between Argentina in the east and Chile in the west. 

Tierra del Fuego National Park is located 6.8 miles (11 km) west of Ushuaia and has stunning scenery with waterfalls, forests, lakes, mountains and glaciers and impressive wildlife viewing including several species of birds, the guanaco, red fox, North American Beaver, and muskrat. 

6. A Country Frozen in Time

Argentina is anything but mass market.  It’s an endless procession of small shops, bakeries, butchers, produce stands, and restaurants – all different from the ones before.  You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to when things moved slower and people lived simply.  

From old cars putting down the road, to shoe shiners working for Argentine pesos and colonial architecture displayed around the plazas, Argentina is a refreshing cultural shift from the everyday hustle and bustle commonly found in the United States or Europe.

Old Car in Argentina

Have you been to Argentina? Share what you loved about it in the comments below!

About the author: Darcie Connell is the founder of Trekity – a website that provides daily travel tips for women – and TravelBloggerAcademy.com.  In 2012, Darcie fell in love with Argentina after spending 10 weeks exploring Argentina’s wine region of Mendoza and the lively capital city of Buenos Aires.  Follow her on Google +1 and Twitter.

5.  Tasty treats

Whether your vice is hot stroopwafel (a crispy carmel filled flat cookie pressed to perfection) made fresh in front of you.  Or if it's a piece of delectable Belgian chocolate.  Here you are never more than a few minutes away from a tasty treat.  For me it's Belgian fries smothered with a green pepper sauce (And no, it's not the mayonnaise they put on their fries in Pulp Fiction, it's frite sauce which is so much better).  It's also a frosty Trappist bier, brewed to perfection at an abby by monks, these are in my opinion the best beers in the world.  These beers pack a punch, many are stronger than a glass of wine.  I haven't even mentioned the Belgian waffles, the Dutch pannenkoeken, the cheeses or the bitter-balls (creamy deep-fried meatballs), and the ice cream...Yum!  So many snacks to choose from, so little time!

4.  The Spring

Everything comes to life during the springtime in the Low Countries.  As the temperature starts to warm up, so do the people.  Excitement is in the air, the winter is over and new life begins.  The tulips, daffodils, and rhododendrons explode into action as if setting off a cue to the people to do the same.  The spring brings about the beginning of the festival season with a couple of my favorite holidays in the Netherlands.  Queen's day, or as it is soon to be known as King's day with the changing from Queen Beatrix to her son King Willem Alexander, is one of the biggest celebrations in the Netherlands.   The entire country dresses in the patriotic orange while partying the day away.  There's also Hemelvaartsdag, or Ascension day where the whole nation takes to their bicycles early in the morning and cycles around with their friends stopping at cyclist rest stops or pop up parties in the countryside.  Perhaps one of the only holidays in the world celebrated on a bike!

3.  The Cities

If you're not from Holland or Belgium, biking in the cities can take some getting used to.  Rush hour on a bike in the Low countries should be an extreme sport all on its own.  If you factor in all of the bikes, the trams, not to mention all of the car traffic it's quite a rush.  Many decisions are made only giving centimeters for error, but for some reason you don't see very many accidents (perhaps in Amsterdam, but those usually involve a tourist and perhaps their judgement has been slightly impaired...)  You also never know what you'll see when riding around one of these big cities.  From the quirky shops, quaint cafes, world class museums, city parks, to the fantastic people watching, there's always something to look at.

2.  The Landscape

The Dutch consider themselves a nation of artists.  With such masters as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh, and Escher its no wonder.  I often have the feeling while cycling through the countryside that I'm cycling through a great painting.  The Dutch are also masters of their landscape.  In fact, the word landscape comes to us from the Dutch 'Landschap'.  It's no wonder we use their word, almost the entire country has been created shaped and landscaped from scratch!  Still today people take a lot of pride in their landscaping.  You can see them hard at work in their wooden shoes planting their fantastic gardens, pruning their trees, and of course cleaning their windows so that they have a clear view of all of their work.

1.  A Cyclers Paradise

With bike paths that could stretch around the world there is never a shortage of options here while on your bike.  Cycle through sand dunes, farms and pastures, forests, parks, next to canals and windmills, along the Rhine river or the North sea or past famous battlefields.  There are ferries dedicated to transporting only cyclists.  There's a bike lane on almost every road and many more cycling only paths.  There are more bikes than people.  The Netherlands is also considering having heated bike paths to keep them clear of snow and ice in the winter!  All of these paths are well marked and tied together by the fietspad (bike-path) network.  I have lived in Holland for almost two years and I cycle nearly everyday.  There are still paths and routes nearby that I haven't yet explored.   I'm hoping that one day this cycler's mentality will spread across the pond to the USA.  I can always dream right?

Having lived in Heidelberg for 16 years through the 1980´s and 90´s, I am often asked which regions to travel to in order to find authentic German culture. While there are many to choose from, the Romantic Road is most certainly one which I will recommend. Running from the Alps and fairy-tale castle at Neuschwanstein to the River Main in central Germany, the Romantic Road is Germany’s best known and most popular tourist route. The name expresses what you’ll feel on seeing the medieval towns and castles as you’re being transported back in time. While the southern part of the route is dominated by dramatic mountain scenery, it is especially the northern stretch which opens up a wealth of history, art and culture. Bustling medieval towns line the route like a string of rare gems. Nördlingen, Dinkelsbühl and Rothenburg with their impressive buildings have preserved their original appearance over the centuries and constitute some of my favorite places in Germany.

Nördlingen lies in the middle of the Ries crater, the best-researched meteorite crater in the world. Traders and craftsmen settled here, and a trade fair for goods from distant lands was established in 1219, which put the town in second place only to Frankfurt. The town built its encircling wall in the 14th century, and its towers and gateways are still preserved today. This golden age in the town’s history also saw the construction of its major buildings, most of them designed as trading halls and warehouses, but also included magnificent patrician houses and the Late Gothic parish church of St. George. Every night, even now, the call of the watchmen can be heard from the tower, who are the last members of their profession anywhere in Germany: “So, G’sell, so!” which means as much as “All’s well, fellows, all’s well”.

Nördlingen rapidly lost its importance in the Wars of Religion in the 16th and 17th centuries, and by the time the Thirty Years’ War ended in 1648 it was not only reduced to poverty but had also lost more than half of its population through death or emigration. Thus there was no need to erect any new buildings for several centuries after that. This also explains why the town has retained much of its medieval architecture. In fact, the same explanation is true for most of the towns in this part of Germany.

Take for instance Dinkelsbühl. It is a town where the past is at one with the present. As you walk through the green belt surrounding the old town, the centuries begin to merge. The best view of Dinkelsbühl is from above. After climbing to the top, the tower of St. George’s Minster offers a panoramic view over the roofs of the old town and the idyllic river valley. The Minster is around 500 years old while the town fortifications are even older. Indeed, many of the houses have survived numerous generations. Even more important, however, is the fact that these buildings are still alive today. In them are families, shops, workshops, cafés and restaurants: sometimes closely packed together in a small lane, sometimes around a square. Up until 1806 this was a Free Imperial Town (practically an independent state with its own rules and laws).

And then there is Rothenburg, one of the oldest towns on the Romantic Road. It overlooks from its rocky crag four bends in the Tauber river. The town is both picturesque and unspoiled. Once behind the ramparts in the car-less central enclave, you are faced with the ancient houses, wrought-iron street signs, fountains and narrow, cobbled lanes, as if a time-warp plunged you back into the middle of the 16th century.

During the Thirty Year War (between the Protestants and the Catholics), the Protestant town of Rothenburg was about to be raised to the ground by the Imperial army commanded by General Tilly. All pleas for mercy had been rejected, when the mayor as a last resort offered the general a goblet of the very best local wine… and a miracle occurred. Tilly’s heart warmed up and he offered a way out. He would spare the town if a local could empty in a single draft a 6-pint mug of the same wine, equaling four bottles of wine. A former mayor named Nusch, who obviously had a great stomach, succeeded and Rothenburg was saved. This is reenacted every year during a big festival…, but I don’t think anyone has been able to follow Nusch in his footsteps (although it is somewhat doubtful he walked after his feat).
North of Rothenburg, the idyllic Tauber Valley opens up a whole other world, which can best be explored on bicycle. The “Klassiker” (Classic) bike trail is a two-day outing along the river, covering 60 miles/100 km from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Wertheim and the Main River. Known as the “Liebliches Taubertal”, the Lovely Tauber Valley region is absolutely delightful, offering scenic, cultural as well as culinary highlights. The clean, bright streams in the Tauber Valley are famous for their trout, served at inns all along the valley. The Tauber Valley lamb is also top-notch. And, of course, the local wines are the perfect accompaniment: Müller-Thurgau, Silvaner and Schwarzriesling, as well as local favorites such as Dornfelder. Among the four well-known breweries in the region are the Distelhäuser and Spessart, with special country brews.

So what are you waiting for? Los geht’s! (Off you go!)
 

Spain is hot! No, not temperature-wise (unless you travel in July or August), but as a new/old destination. When we think of travelling to Spain, we often think of Madrid, Barcelona, Catalonia, Andalusia, the many ‘Costa’ and beaches, and – to a lesser degree - Galicia. However, Navarra and Rioja are often ignored as vacation spots, even though they have a lot to offer.

Navarra, in northeastern Spain, was for many centuries a small independent kingdom, and an important player in history. As a semi-autonomous province, it now preserves plenty of that independent feeling. It is stuffed with things to see, from the awe-inspiring Pyrenees to castled plains and sun-drenched wine-country. The principal route of the pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela – the Camino Francés – crosses Navarra from east to west and has left some of Spain’s finest religious architecture.

In the midst of it all is Pamplona, a pleasant town which goes crazy for nine days in July for the Fiesta de los Sanfermines, of which the most famous event is the daily Running of the Bulls (Encierro), made famous by Hemingway. It is difficult to describe just how big this party is! The eating options in Pamplona are plentiful, yet I can definitely recommend an evening of Tapas (here called Pintxo: pronounced as Pinchos) as you hop from bar to bar.

Puente La Reina is a small town along the Way of St. James (i.e. the Camino), and a good place to stop for lunch. Not only does it have a couple of interesting pilgrim churches and many restaurants (BTW, often you will first need to wrestle your way through the bar in order to make it to the restaurant, so you may as well have a drink on your way in), but it also has a remarkably well-preserved Romanesque hump-backed bridge spanning the Rio Arga. It was built in the late 11^th century by orders of the queen to ensure the safe river crossing of the pilgrims.

The wines of Navarra are centered on the town of Olite. One of the oldest towns in Navarra, it was founded and fortified by the Romans. It wasn’t until the 12^th century that the town began to rise to prominence. Olite became a favorite of the Navarrese monarchs and a palace was built, incorporating what remained of the Roman fortifications. This palace is now a Parador, which means it has been turned into a historical hotel. Various bodegas (wineries) are located in and around the town, such as Ochoa (my favorite), Piedemonte and Marco Real.

Rioja, just south-east of Navarra, is known above all for its red wines (even though part of the wine denomination falls in Basque Country). Also Rioja was given semi-autonomous status. The name of this province is derived from the Río Oja, a tributary of the Ebro River. The Ebro runs down a shallow valley of enormous fertility, which also produces top quality cereal, fruits and vegetables, especially in the Rioja Baja. Riojan dishes include giant asparagus, hearty stews of white beans, large roasts of goat and lamb, perfected with a bottle of local red. 

The provincial town of Haro (in the Rioja Alta) is the effective grape capital. If you are a wine aficionado, you will want to visit the wine museum. The family-owned Muga winery accepts visitors on a daily basis.

To end this blog on a spiritual note of a different dimension, let me mention the town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada. Born in 1019, Domingo dedicated his life to the pilgrims who were passing through the area. Here he built a hospital, a bridge and a road, around which a town then grew which would eventually bear his name. The cathedral is the town’s centerpiece. The most curious ‘object’ in the cathedral is a live rooster and hen which are kept in a cage in memory of a miracle said to have occurred in Santo Domingo, when a roasted chicken stood up from a platter, and, fully feathered, crowed aloud to testify the innocence of a pilgrim who had been unjustly accused of theft and had been hung. He too was found to be alive, and was immediately released. Pilgrims still collect the bird’s white feathers!

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

The Dordogne flows between castles, From Souillac to Beynac, many of which date to the Hundred Year War between the French and the English. No doubt, this is mainly because the river was the route of passage, in the days of bad roads over the uplands, or no roads at all. The cliffs that border the valley might have been created to please warriors who sought a high rock to build on and a wide view from their towers. Castelnaud is a fantastic castle with an even more fantastic view…, overlooking its adversary: the castle of Beynac. They are not the palaces of the Loire, raised for princes to visit in the hunting season; but, they are better situated, and they have a human air of habitation.

Nearby is La Roque-Gageac, a strange village built up a perpendicular cliff, its houses clamped against the rock on a few terraces. A bit further up the river is Domme, reached by a zig-zag road from Cénac. Domme is a bastide. It was built in the 13^th century, when fortress-towns were being set up all over this country. It was the custom to give the people privileges in order to induces them to build the places and inhabit them…, as well as fight on the right side if this were necessary. Domme still has two gates, and a good deal of its walls; streets of honey-colored houses, and the terrace overlooking the Dordogne far below. Beaumont is another good example of a bastide. It has the typical central market square, surrounded by the arcades called the ‘cornières’. The streets form a grid within the walls and the little town was purely built for defence. Once the town gates were shut, the enemy would have to scale the double line of walls. And if he got through that, the people took refuge in the church and defended it like a castle. Its towers still bear traces of the battlement from which the defenders shot arrows at the invaders, and the windows are set too high to be accessible without ladders.

In Cadouin you will find the majestic austere abbey-church which for many centuries attracted hoards of pilgrims to the Holy Shroud of Christ, which had long been considered as the shroud to have enveloped the head of the Christ after his crucifixion.  In the 19^th century, a monk insisted on deciphering the inscription woven into its margin, which proved to be a Muslim text, and the pilgrimages ceased to continue.

French cookery is not only unsurpassed, it is supreme. Within her borders, the standard varies immensely. Every region has its specialties, but there are two which are generally outstanding: Burgundy and the South-West including the Dordogne. When visiting the Dordogne you will find yourself in a gastronomic paradise. Though the French were never famous for their breakfasts, the quality and quantitiy has greatly improved with the influx of foreign visitors. Naturally, a smaller breakfast allows you to drop into the patisserie to eat delicious pastries and cakes!

The food in the Dordogne is locally produced, and therein lies its great virtue. Nothing is imported, nothing is stale. The lettuces are straight out of the soil, the apricots off the trees. You eat the fruits of the earth in their season. The great local delicacies are truffles and cèpes, and various conserved meats. The potted Foie Gras, goose and duck, are marvelous and are rich beyond belief. In case you are worried about the welfare of the animals, farmers are no longer allowed to force feed the animals (as they did in the past). Nowadays, the geese and ducks just live on a ‘fattening’ diet.  

The preserves of goose and duck (called confit) are also great and should be tried at least one. Combine it with one of the local red wines from Cahors, and you will enjoy life like a King or Queen in France!

Best,

Ron

I believe that I have a German soul, not just because that is where 75% of my family heritage comes from, but because there is no other place on earth that I feel more myself!  I love Germany.  I love the people and the culture and the geography!  This is a country of huge metropolitan cities, rolling country side hills, and a world renowned river, the Rhine. 

Personally, I like the path less traveled for my adventures and the Mosel River, a tributary of the Rhine, provides the perfect back drop for fantastic Germany bike tours.  The Mosel will guide you through quaint villages, historically significant artifact sites, and one of Germany’s 13 abundant wine growing regions!

This area is most well known for producing crisp Rieslings, a wine best known for its balance between fruit, floral, and mineral flavors.  You can find a Riesling for almost any pallet; they range from sweet to dry to sparkling, and can be consumed at a young age, which provides clear taste delineations, or aged, around 10 years old the wine will have a very harmonious taste structure.

The next time you are looking for multifaceted biking tour, consider the Mosel Region in Germany!  There is so much to offer, and there is hardly a better way to end an active day than by enjoying the scenery and local glass of wine.

Your Friendly Travel Expert,

Mindy Teini

Imagine yourself surrounded by the kind of scenery that most people only visit in their dreams: 22,000-foot, snow dusted peaks; valleys filled with soft rows of grape vines; and beautiful, cloud-speckled blue skies. Now, imagine that you are holding a tantalizingly good looking glass of Malbec.  You breathe in the tannins and take your first sip. It is balanced, smooth, easy to drink, and, most importantly, delicious.  Not only is it amazing because you are sitting at the very vineyard that the wine comes from, but also because you just completed a stunningly picturesque bike ride in the foothills of the Andes.  Now that you can practically taste the wine on your lips, imagine nine days of blissful moments like this one.  With ALA’s Chile and Argentina Wine Country Adventure, you will wine, dine, hike, bike and horseback your way from Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago, Chile.

Located in the heart of the Andes, Chile and Argentina are world-renowned for both their beauty and their wine.   Grapes were first introduced to the regions in the 16^th century, when Spanish conquistadors brought vines over during colonization.  Today, Chile is the fifth largest exporter of wine in the world, while Argentina is the fifth largest producer.  During your South American wine adventure, you will visit wineries in both countries. While there you will learn the history of the vineyard, as well as how they produce their wine.  And, obviously, you will taste some truly spectacular vintages!

While the wines maybe the highlight of this trip, we can’t forget about the spectacular scenery, which elevates (no pun intended) this adventure to a whole new level.  Whether you are biking along endless rows of grape vines, or taking in the views of Mt. Aconcagua (the tallest peak in the Western and Southern Hemispheres) from Lake Horcones while enjoying a delicious picnic lunch, you cannot help but have your breath taken away by the landscapes surrounding you.

After nine days of fabulous food, wine and vistas, you can’t help but return to the “real world” a relaxed and changed person.  With mountain air in your lungs, and tannins still tickling your tongue, you’ll be raising a glass to your Chile and Argentina Wine Country Adventure for months to come.

Salud!

Blake 

A country known for delectable wines, mouthwatering cuisine, cultural depths, and romantic locations, France is a great place to experience your next adventure vacation.  Can’t leave the kids home alone? Perfect, bring your family on a France Normandy Family Trip with Austin Lehman Adventure. They will love the impressive sceneries, the beautiful views on their bike rides, and the exciting histories and visits to the battlefields.  Delicious meals to impress a toddler to a grandparent, no family member will leave this vacation disappointed.

The tourist town of St-Malo has been a tourist hot spot for years. St-Malo citadel, or walled city, is an attractive visitor location with cobblestone streets lined with shops, bars, hotels, and restaurants.  The modern harbor connects the citadel to the mainland making travel a bit more simple and stress free.  Your adventure upon two wheels during your adventure tour will lead you along Brittany to the battlefields of Normandy.  Travelling along the shoreline form St-Malo to Bayeux you will taste the flavors of the harbors, experience a piece of history as you pass through historic sites from WWII, and view ancient stone farmhouses and experience the striking landscapes.

St-Vaast is a beautiful and very special marina surrounded by stunning fishing boats and quaint views of the shorelines and fishermen landing and selling their catches.  The bulk of French oysters come from this location so it is a must try on the menu for dinner or lunch during your visit.  The sheltered location provides a beautiful, almost tropical vegetation creating a gorgeous backdrop for you to ride along and visit.  Retreat to the lush Normandy countryside; enjoy a glass of fine wine, and flavorful cheeses and caviar.

Continue your French Bike Tour to the town of Bayeux.   Visit the historic sites of the D-Day Beaches, guided tours of historical WWII sites, and visit the Bayeux Cathedral which towers over the entire town. Relive William the Conqueror’s conquest of England as you walk along the colorful 230-foot Bayeux Tapestry that retells the story scene by scene. 

Searching for an adventure that reaches beyond just amazing French food and beautiful landscapes.  Check out one of Austin Lehman Adventures newest France tour to Dordogne.  While this trip by no means will be lacking in mouthwatering savory cuisine, it is also an opportunity to step back through time and explore the Grotte Fond de Gaume, an ancient cave scattered with 15,000-year-old paintings of prehistoric bison, mammoths, and reindeer which once roamed the shores of the Dordogne during the last Ice Age.   With hundreds of caves open to the public to explore, as well as prehistoric paintings you can also marvel at rock formations, and explore beautiful underground taverns.

Check out all of Austin Lehman’s Brand new tours and book your family adventure vacation today!  See more photos of our France Adventure Trips on Pinterest.

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.

Harvest time is coming to California’s wine country!   This means there is no better time to plan your California adventure vacation and experience amazing cycling tours through the Napa region. Not only is the weather fantastic in Napa in the fall, but there is a special energy in the air.  The excitement and anticipation of great wines to come is all around. The grape leaves are beginning to change color only adding to the breathtaking beauty of the area.  The days are still warm and the evenings are cool making it the perfect time to explore all that the region has to offer.

The annual grape crush begins in late August and continues until October, which makes the fall an extremely exciting time to be in wine country.  This is the perfect time to see the area in the full swing of wine production.  The flurry of activity picking grapes starts before dawn and the grapes are whisked away to the crusher as quickly as possible, yet the smell of freshly picked grapes lingers in the air all day.  It is a time for festivity and to celebrate the harvest, wineries offer rare barrel tastings, special production tours, unique wine pairing dinners and opportunities to blend your own wine.  During this exciting time you can even find a few places that offer you the opportunity to participate in an idyllic barefoot wine stomp.  You will find the small towns are buzzing with cooking classes, workshops, special events and festivals. 

Fill your days with the perfect combination of hiking, biking, kayaking and winery tours and tastings.  There is no better way to explore wine country than by bicycle.  It allows you to slow down and take it all in.  An afternoon of hiking and exploring historic Jack London State Park will take you back to the simpler time of Jack London’s adventures.  Stroll along the beach after a morning kayak until you find your perfect seashell souvenir.  End your perfect day in wine country with a farm fresh dinner and a glass of local wine. 

A few days in wine country will leave you relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to plan your next visit.  Come celebrate the finer things in life with the people of California’s wine country this fall!

Your friendly wine loving travel consultant,

Melissa Ladvala

La Rioja, Spain is home to hundreds of remarkable wineries that are as beautiful as they are delectable.  Filled with historical monasteries, endless fields of vineyards, and amazing activities like wine tasting and hot air balloon rides, this is the perfect location for a romantic adventure vacation.  Spain is famous for their wines and flavors so what better location to bring the one you love, and lavish them in the best of what this country has to offer.  This tour offers the perfect mix of comforting luxurious accommodations, to mouth-watering cuisines, and world-renowned adventure activities. Book your Spain bike tour today with Austin-Lehman Adventures for the romantic getaway of a lifetime.

The city of La Rioja, along with all of the other cities that Austin-Lehman Adventures provides adventure tours through, was not chosen by chance.  Time, experience, and research went into designing the perfect itineraries and locations for each and every trip and Spain is no exception.  Offering scenic mountain ranges, incredible landscapes, as well as Mediterranean forests, the natural ambiance of Spain is Mother Nature’s own romantic retreat.  Plan a romantic holiday get away and visit La Rioja!

You can wander along the historic roads of Pamplona, Spain while you and your other half will learn fantastic stories, and view The Citadel and City Walls that enclose this historical haven.  You can cuddle up as you hear stories of traditional running of the bulls, and you can dance through the villages as you are serenaded by sounds of flamenco. You can later retreat to your romantic room at Hotel Tres Reyes located in the beautiful Taconera Gardens, the oldest and most stunning in Pamplona. 

Next you will explore the fairy tale land of Olite, Ujue complete with castles and fortresses built by the monarchs of Navarre.  Exploring the wetlands you may see some unique wildlife as you climb the hilltop and capture the view and memories on film. You will then be able to explore to the historic-artistic site of Haro.  Known for its delicious red wines you can enjoy a local glass, and taste some of the delightful local fares. 

Cruising through the ancient cities of Spain on two wheels you will experience new adventures, and see the beauty that makes this country a must place to experience for most travellers.  When planning a cycling vacation for you and someone you love, you can normally consider it work with all the planning and organizing.  This summer vacation is already organized with accommodations planned, activities outlined, and costs all laid out upfront.  It will not be your responsibility to figure out transportation, or worry about keeping things on schedule.  Go on you next adventure vacation with Austin-Lehman Adventures and let them plan all the details, so you can focus on what’s important…The person your spending the vacation with!

Check out some more  Spain Bike Tour photos on Pinterest

Your friendly lover of Spain,

Patrick

Places to Visit in Spain While You Are On Your Spain Bike Tour

Barcellona, Madrid, Seville, and Granada; all cities you thought you would miss on your upcoming adventure tour through Spain.  Just to name a few of the gorgeous and breathtaking cities that the historic Country of Spain has become famous for.  As you plan your dream adventure vacation of a lifetime to visit La Rioja and the Navarra provinces of Northern Spain, you have probably also wondered what it would be like to visit some areas not on the itinerary.  The splendor of an Austin-Lehman Adventure tour is that you will be sure to see the best that each location you visit, has to offer.  If the travel bug has bit you, and you are able to spend some time before and/or after your adventure tour, you should definitely check out some of the other local activities and antique cities that the striking country of Spain has to offer.

Your Spain Bike Tour will not fall short of your expectations as you meander through the city of historic Pamplona on a guided tour, where the running of the bulls is held.  You will also trek along the ancient pilgrimage route of Camino De Santiago, reveling in the beauty of the nearby villages.  You can also plan on a toast in Olite, wine capital of the Navarra province.  You will then bask in the views of the cliffs overlooking Rioja’s Cidacos valley, taking in views of almond groves and sheep laden meadows.  A full adventure complete with memorable biking adventures, the most palatable foods you can imagine, and the most delectable wines you have ever had the pleasure of sampling.  While Austin Lehman has taken the guesswork out of your next Spain vacation, you can still give the planning a go if you choose to check out some other parts of the country while you are visiting.  Book your flight for a week before or after your Austin-Lehman Adventure, so you have some time to plan some explorations of your own. 

If you happen to be planning your Spain vacation with Austin-Lehman, during the weeks between July 6^th -14^th you should definitely plan some time to visit the San Fermin Festival to see the famous running of the bulls. Enjoy wonderful music, delicious foods, exciting dance, and stunning fireworks. If you happen to miss the dates, your tour will still provide you with tons of stories and images so you will be able to practically hear the hoofs charging. You should also check out the Pamplona Cathedral, the brilliant stonework and gothic ancient interior is a site not to be missed.   If you loved the Cathedral you should also take some time to check out Monasterio de Leyre which oldest records of the site date back to 842.  The natural ambiance surrounding the Monasterio is also offers a gorgeous view as well. If you are not looking to visit churches you still have tons of museums, observatories, landmarks, and parks to visit and explore during your cycling tours. 

If you are able to escape for more then a week before you tour you should also check out a few other cities.  While visiting Madrid you can attend a soccer game at Santiago Bernabeu, or visit the famous impressive main plaza with delicious cafes and newsworthy bars.  If you missed the running of the bulls in Pamplona you can watch a bullfight at the Ventas bullring.  At night the town transforms into a party city with eclectic mixes of music, and the town just keeps dancing.  Lastly don’t forget to start and end your day with a chocolate dipped churro. 

Anyone looking to view some spectacular Spainish architecture on their adventure vaction will be sure to put Barcelona on the must see list.  The Hospital de Sant Pau and Gaudi’s famous unfinished basilica Segrada Familia with modernist design and a short walk down Avenida de Gaudi, are windows of beauty looking through to the past. If you are also into art you can visit the Salvador Dali museum, or visit the Picasso Museum.  If you just want to wander around you can stroll the streets of the Gothic Quarter or pass through Barcelona’s famous streets of Las Ramblas featuring street performers, endless shops, and vibrant atmosphere. 

No matter which cities you trek through before and/or after your cycling tour there are a few activities you need to have in mind, set to accomplish.  From enjoying tapas; specifically a delicious snack with your drinks out on the town, to catching a bull fight, soccer game, or visiting the splendid Alhambra Moorish Fortress located in the hills of Granada. Stop by the gardens of Seville to witness an authentic flamenco show fully packed with culture, folk music, and drunken gypsies.  No matter what you plan for your adventure travel it is always great to plan a couple of extra days to explore other gems that the county has to offer.  No tour can capture every bit of wonder that a location has to offer so take some time out to visit some other locations that you just can’t live without visiting.     

Check out Austin-Lehman Adventures Spain Bike Tour and other photos of adventure trips on Pinterest

Your friendly traveler,

Patrick

France is such a diverse country from the chic metropolitan city of Paris to the windswept dunes of the Normandy beaches to the lavender fields of Provence to the wineries of Burgundy to the picturesque castles of the Loire Valley.  France truly has something to offer everyone and it is the perfect country for your European cycling tours.  There is no better way to experience all that this beautiful country has to offer than on the two wheels of a bicycle.  Not only do you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face but you can truly take in all the sights and smells on a whole different level. 

History Rich Brittany/Normandy

Not only are the Brittany and Normandy regions of France phenomenally beautiful but they offer adventurers a bit of a history lesson.  This area is rich in history dating back to the Roman Empire and also played an important role in World War II.  There will be plenty of time to visit the museums, beaches, battlefields and cemeteries.  Rolling through the historic villages you will be amazed by the half-timbered buildings that have endured the test of time.  Stop along the way and enjoy a savory crepe and a locally distilled cider!  There is no better way to journey to the majestic abbey of Mont St Michel than by bicycle.  You will see it far off in the distance and arrive to marvel at its splendor.  A cycling vacation in the Brittany/Normandy region will leave you craving your next trip to France. 

Luscious Provence

Famous for its fragrant lavender fields, jagged Mediterranean coast, charming villages and superb cuisine, Provence is everything you are dreaming of in a French vacation.  There is endless exploring to do in this region.  It has an incredibly rich history dating back to the Stone Age when some of the earliest people to inhabit Europe chose Provence.  How can you blame them?  The Mediterranean coastline is exquisite, beautiful mountains tower in the distance, several rivers meander the countryside and this region has a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters.  Famous for delicious cuisine, Provence has a flavor distinctly different from some of the other regions in France.  Expect to dine on some incredible seafood, crusty breads with fresh olive tapenade and array of fresh fruits.  Relaxation and enjoying life is hallmark of Provence, so make sure you indulge.  Spend some time people watching at an outdoor café in before taking a laidback stroll through the amazing markets of St Remy.  You will settle right into this leisurely lifestyle and feel relaxed and rejuvenated in no time!

Delectable Burgundy

The people who live in this region know the secrets of the “good life” start with amazing food and wine.  You will find no shortage of either on your cycling vacation to the Burgundy region of France.  It is a travelers dream!  The beautiful rolling hills of this region are dotted with picturesque small vineyards, magnificent chateaus and timeworn abbeys.    The quaint villages of Burgundy will invite you to linger and enjoy just one more glass of amazing pinot noir.  While vacationing in this area be sure to sample some of the famous regional cuisine like the Beef Bourguigon, Coq au Vin or the delicious Escagot in a white wine sauce.  This is an incredibly peaceful region of France that invites you to slow down, relax and stay awhile. 

The Enchanted Loire Valley

Spend just a few days cycling through the gorgeous Loire Valley and you will feel enlightened.  This region is famous for its extravagant chateaus and castles, gorgeous gardens and noble history.  Many of the impressive castles in the Loire Valley were once residences of the French Royalty.  They were built in this beautiful river valley because the close proximity to Paris, the pleasant climate, beautiful landscape and amazing growing season.  This region of the country is often called the Garden of France.  Not only will you find plenty of vineyards but you will also cycle past beautiful fruit orchards, fields of artichokes, asparagus and sunflowers.  Spend a few days pedaling through the charming villages, touring the picture perfect chateaus, sampling a few flakey pastries along the way and you will see why this region has been a haven for French royalty, poets, artists and travelers throughout history. 

With its impressive charm, food and wine, indulgent culture France will entice you time and time again.  It is the perfect place for your European cycling tours. 

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.

When Talking about European Vacations my head immediately goes to Germany. Not only did my family originate there, which gives it special draw for me, but I feel most at home when I am there! Austin-Lehman offers to cycling tours that take you through the heart of Germany, both follow magnificent rivers, making the cycling easy and enjoyable, the weather idyllic, and the scenery breathtaking!

The first is Germany: Mosel Valley. This is one of our easiest biking tours in Europe, making it perfect for families! Journey along the sparkling waters of the Mosel River as you relax in Germany's abundant wine growing region. Pedaling through the vine covered hills you will follow paths that lead to grand castles, lively market towns, and unknown wine village gems. Discover Germany's fascinating Roman past, taste new wines, and marvel in serene pleasure at the Mosel's timeless charm, oh, and don’t forget the gelato!

The second trip, Germany: Romantic Roads is a little more challenging. Forget ancient folklore as you saddle up for an enchanting visit to Germany's Rhine River as here you will see it all come to life!  One after another you will discover some of Germany’s most delightful towns. Enjoy quiet country roads and bicycle paths, visit wonderful castles and churches and meet the charming people who make this region feel like home.

Austin-Lehman Adventures prides itself on first class customer service, local guides and amazing adventures on all our cycling tours. We leave no stone unturned in our quest to make your vacation one you will never forget. Our motto is "the hardest part is going home" and we strive every day to live up to it! So if you are looking for the best – on all levels, the good news is you’ve arrived!

I hope this entices you to join us on a German excursion this season; there really is no place like it!

Your Friendly Travel Expert,

Mindy (Vanderhoof) Teini

For most people the first place they travel to holds a special place in their heart.  While Europe was not technically my first stop, for me, it feels like home!  There are so many reasons to love European vacations: The people, the food, the views, but here are my top reasons for going back again and again!

#5.  Returning to a familiar place.  If you have ever traveled to the same place twice, you know what I mean!  There is nothing like getting into Paris (or any city) and knowing where the Metro is (or, let’s be honest, the best bakeries!) Or knowing exactly where your favorite hotel is, the best walk along the river, the park where you want to read all day.  Each time I return somewhere I find new treasures to make me love the place!

#4. Bakeries on Every corner.  Seriously, you haven’t lived until you have divulged in European pastries.  I haven’t had a bad one yet (and I even ended up with a prune Danish on one side trip to Slovakia).  My favorites are anything with apples, or those cream filled croissants, or anything dusted in confectioners’ sugar.

#3. The Wine.  It doesn’t seem to matter if you are in France, Spain, or Austria, the wine selection in Europe is second to none!  The best part is there are great options at almost every price level; you can pick up a decent wine in the grocery store for 3 Euros or splurge on a couple hundred dollar bottle straight from your favorite vineyard.

#2. The History.  As American’s I believe we forget how young of a country we are!  In Europe, when you are walking down centuries old cobblestone streets, or sitting in a church from the 1400s, it is hard to miss that this place has a little more sole!  There is so much to take in, and there really is nothing like realizing that Leonardo de Vinci or Alexander the Great could have walked exactly where you are!

And the #1 reason I love Europe: The People.  You may have heard that the French dislike American’s, or that no one likes the American government. Well, that may be true in some cases, but in my experience, if you smile, and try, it goes a long, long way!  Just learn ‘hello’, ‘goodbye’, ‘please’, and ‘thank you’ in the language and you are pretty well set.  The people are warm, welcoming, and just as interested in you as you are in them.

I hope this gives you a little inspiration to hop across "The Pond" and visit our neighbors to the East!  With all the wonderful European vacations available you are sure to find somewhere that strikes your fancy!

You Friendly Travel Expert,

Mindy Vanderhoof-Teini

Why do you love Europe? Leave a comment and tell us, we love hearing from you!

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

Do you ever have one of those days when you look out the window, taking a break from your computer, only to let your mind wander off to some faraway place? Well, that just happened to me (shh, don’t tell the boss!), and I traveled back to the Mosel River Valley of Germany, one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet!

The main memory that floated into my mind when drifting back to my Mosel Valley trip were the long stretches of flat bike paths connecting quaint German towns interspersed along the calmly flowing Mosel River. (Did I mention that the wind was at my back the whole way too?!) I picture myself lazily pedaling along miles of paths amongst endless, terraced grape vine plots, stopping in each town along the way to snack on Pommes Frites (French fries) with mayo (a very popular appetizer in Germany) and taking a few photographs of the locals and unique architecture.

 But oh, there is so much more for the biker buff out there, who wants just a little more than the flat valley floor. Remember when I mentioned “terraced” hills? Your guides provide you with any number of extensions each day that include heart-pumping hill action, breathtaking vistas extending as far as the eye can see, and winding down hills taking you back to the main Mosel River paths. If you want variety in the slope of your bike path, Germany is the ultimate European Vacation!

To sum it all up, Germany to me is the absolute perfect biking destination for not only adults but families too! There is complete variety in the grade of the bike paths and road extensions so you can choose the difficulty of your vacation. Germany bike tours are an Austin-Lehman specialty and when you take me up on my suggestion of cycling around this beautiful European country, don’t forget to take in the beauty of the river valley, sip the variety of German wines, and eat a few Pommes Frites for me!

See you on your next adventure!

Kasey Austin