Wine Tasting

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.

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

Enjoy the delights of the past from ruins and medieval streets, historic churches, and famous artists, to the wonders of the present day from fashions, farms, and delectable wines.  If you cannot decide which style of vacation you want to enjoy, why choose?  With an Austin-Lehman France Bike Tour you get the story telling and time travel to ancient eras, along with the beauties and wonders that locals today enjoy on a daily basis.  The mix of learning about history, experiencing local tastes and drinks, enjoying strolls and bike rides from location to location, get your hands a little dirty at the farms and vineyards, to the luxurious accommodations and spa hotels that you are able to retreat to at the end of the night.  For the best mix of activities to suit all of your traveling needs, check out an Adventure tour today to the beautiful countryside of France. 

France biking vacations are offered in four different locations including Provence, The Loire Valley, Burgundy, and of course Brittany/Normandy.  The Provence a Pied is a great tour that focuses on gourmet excursions and travelling by foot to see the lovely locations of Provence.  The vineyards will be enjoyed by strolling through lanes of grapes, breathing in the aromas, soaking up the sunshine, and indulging in the flavors and varieties of grapes that elaborate the millions of bottles of fantastic wines.  Travel across the engineering marvel, the famous three-tiered aqueduct-bridge, and The Pont du Gard aqueduct.  Gape at the impressive bridge spanning 275 meters over the Gardon Valley.  Trek through the Roman ruins and learn about the ancient remains of the historical heritage of the old Roman civilization in the most perfectly preserved Roman amphitheater in the world to the Maison Carre. 

If you choose to instead enjoy the city of Provence on a France bike tour rather then by foot you will not miss out on the Roman Ruins, will also walk the steps through history where six popes before had trekked, and of course view the aqueduct Pont du Gard.  Riding through the countryside with fields of lavender, sunflowers, vineyards, and olive groves you will soak in the landscape that inspired artists like Van Gogh, Cezanne, and Chagall.  Take a break from the bike ride and stop into the some of the local farms with ripe and delicious produce, local and savory products, and learn about the fascinating traditional way of farming in Provence.  If this tour didn’t already seem interesting enough throw in a visit to the nature reserve of The Camargue, a lovely wind-swept river delta bordering the Mediterranean Sea, where you can pass the time watching the grace and beauty of the pink flamingos.   If you are looking to visit other locations during your visit to France, book your flight out a week from when your tour ends.  Due to an excellent train network it is simple to pass from city to city. 

Perhaps Provence doesn’t strike a chord with you; nevertheless, there are many other locations of France to consider. Your Loire Valley French Bike Tour offers some beautiful architectural sites including Chateau Amboise, Chateau Chambord, and Chateau Chenoceau.  Loire Valley is known for being host to many important castles from history dating back to the 15^th and 17^th centuries.  Learn the fascinating histories of how all of these castles came about from their competitive nature, and walk in the footsteps of Joan of Arc.  Also ride along through the towns, cathedrals, and villages to view the beauty that the town still currently holds.  The countryside and Rivers are worth the ride to enjoy a bit of the scenery and try out some of the flavors of local wine and food. 

Another France bike tour location to consider is a Burgundy Bike Tour with Austin-Lehman Adventures.  Start your adventure with a visit to the university town of Dijon, explore the Musee des Beaux-Arts, and take a relaxing ride through the gargoyle-studded churches of Notre Dame.  What better wine to try then a classic glass of Burgundy while visiting the town of Beaune and try some of the astounding cuisines, and sweets that France has to offer, all in one of the oldest wine regions in France.  You will be able to enjoy great accommodations, staying true to some old fashioned charm and bask in some of the delights that Burgundy has to offer.  The pace of change in this vintage town is a bit slow to say the least, enjoy the personality and soak up some of the delicious products of this region. 

Check out our Pintrest account to see more France Adventure Trips

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.

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

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

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

South American wines have really started to come into their own in the wine world in recent years.  Wine lovers around the world are now discovering the high quality wines coming from Chile and Argentina.  With plenty of sunshine, a temperate climate and the gorgeous Andes Mountains as your backdrop, the wine regions of Argentina and Chile are the perfect place to discover your new favorite variety. 

The Argentine Malbecs are deep and fruity, the Chilean Cabernets are rich, complex and have just a hint of green pepper and the coastal Chardonnays are smooth and refreshing.  My personal favorite is a lesser known varietal nearly unique to Chile, the Carmenere.  If there was ever a wine with a great story to tell it would be the Carmenere.   This is actually lost French varietal that was thought to have died out in Europe when the French vineyards were destroyed by disease in the 1800s.  Chilean wine makers actually brought the grape vine to Chile from Bordeaux before the devastation and for years it was growing under the mistaken identity of Merlot.  Some wine producers noticed some of their “Merlot” was a bit different and finally in the 1990s DNA testing of the vines proved it was the long lost varietal from Bordeaux thriving half a world away!  Now if that story does not warrant giving the Carmenere a try, I don’t know what does!    The Chilean Carmenere is aromatic, deep, earthy, cherry-like and perfectly paired with spicy foods or grilled meats.

Wind your way from Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago, Chile tasting fantastic wines and you will find out for yourself why the wine regions of South America are coming up in the world.  It truly is the perfect place for your next wine tour!

Your Friendly Travel Consultant,

Melissa Ladvala

There is no bad time of year to be in California’s wine country, but perhaps the best time of year to plan your visit to this bountiful region is for the harvest.  The harvest in the Napa Valley begins as early as August and can continue through early November, but the prime time is October. 

The harvest is truly a magical time to be in wine country.  There is a special energy in the air that creates a bit more hustle, puts a spring in everyone’s step while the smell of fresh wine lingers in the air.  It is the first taste of the season’s grapes, it is the hope that this year, just might, produce the most perfect bottle of wine and it is the culmination of an entire season of hard work.  It truly is a time for celebration!  It is the perfect time to really immerse yourself in the wine-making process.  During the harvest bushels of grapes are handpicked, sorted and then head off to be pressed before starting the fermenting process.  From grape to glass the process is really fascinating! 

With the days a bit shorter and the evenings a little cooler October is the perfect time for adventure vacation packages or cycling tours in the Napa Valley.  There is something for everyone in California's wine country; whether you are a foodie, a wine connoisseur, a cycling enthusiast or you are just in need of some rest and relaxation this is the perfect vacation spot! 

Cheers!

Your Friendly Travel Consultant,

Melissa Ladvala

Ahem...  Cue my best Julie Andrew’s voice…

Experience a few of my favorite things on our California Wine Country Adventure!  This trip is 6 days and 5 nights packed with wine tastings, delicious meals, winery tours, biking, hiking, kayaking, redwoods, and even a little seaside relaxation.  California wine country satisfies my taste buds and feeds my adventurous spirit, leaving me relaxed and quite content.  It is my perfect vacation!  Come see why California Wine Country has some of the best adventure vacations for couples.  For dates and full trip details download the full itinerary here.

Your Friendly Travel Consultant,

Melissa Ladvala

The San Juan Islands in the State of Washington provide exciting opportunities for great adventure trips.  With different islands as your playground, there are absolutely no dull moments.  The three islands – Orcas Island, San Juan Island and Lopez Island offer very different island experiences.  

San Juan Island
When you visit San Juan Island, you will know why so many residents fell in love with this place.  You can leisurely walk around the island to visit shops, museums and cafés. With many delightful things that can fill your day, everything is within walking distance.  Hike to the Lime Kiln Point State Park and allot some time for whale watching.

Orcas Island
Kayaking around Orcas Island will have you looking out for the whales (as the name implies) so be ready to take plenty of photos of these magnificent creatures.  Try hiking to the island’s highest peak, Mount Constitution, to take in the 360 degree view of the island.  Walk around the town of Eastsound, visit the farmer’s market and enjoy the splendid sounds of live musical performances.

Lopez Island
Cycling tours around Lopez Island prepare you for a sumptuous seafood meal and wine tasting at the local winery. You will feel right at home in this place as locals greet visitors with warm, friendly smiles.  The birds visiting the island make this place the ideal locale for bird watching with many bald eagles spotted often visiting the area. Kayaking allows travelers to fully discover the unspoiled wonders of nature in this part of the country.

Experience the island life in one of the many adventure vacation packages offered by Austin-Lehman. Visit us online to learn more about our exciting travel destinations.
 

To journey to Spain is to experience a rich reward of fine food, delectable wines and enchanting history. Our adventure trips to Rioja promise to bring all three to travellers seeking European vacations with a little more than just plain tourist activities.

The Spanish scenery offers dramatic mountains and hills for adventure opportunities for the thrill seeker in everyone committed to experiencing a true adventure vacation. Climbing, hiking, bungee jumping, paragliding and canoeing in local rivers are all popular sports. Spanish holidays also feature hunting, fishing and even hot air balloon trips that give an otherworldly view of this country far from its ever popular sun and surf found in the south.

Cycling tours through Rioja offer a journey into greater fitness as well as an inspiring picture of the dramatic landscapes as well. Venturing into the foothills of the Great Pyrenees will reveal century’s old fortified castles and settlements that provide a look into life in a time long ago.

The romance of local area names is matched only by the fine red wines this region produces. European vacations to this part of the world allow travellers to delight in the fine tastes of red and white wines as well as the traditional bodegas that pedal aged vintages to visitors and locals alike.

You, too, can journey with us as we explore the romantic and noble Spain of today and yesteryear. Contact us online for more information about our vacation packages for singles, couples and families.
 

Ancient ruins, lush vineyards and tasty delicacies are sure to delight everyone. The ability to tread in the footsteps of artist Vincent Van Gogh is uniquely magnificent. The delicious aroma of thyme, lavender and honey is absolutely unforgettable. You certainly will not be “bordeaux” in France – au contraire; you will enjoy the experience of a lifetime.  

European vacations to France will reawaken all of your senses. Take in the stunning views during your walking tour on a rock strewn cliff in Les Baux while learning some of the area’s royal history. Inhale the sweet scent of the expansive vineyards that surround you. Listen to the sounds of nature as you journey from Saint-Remy into the hills of a small range of mountains known as the Alpilles. Taste delicious hors de oeuvre, local wine and a traditional European entrée. Visit the small community of Gordes at the edge of the Vaucluse Plateau, which boasts absolutely beautiful views. The sight of stone castles is like something out of a fairytale. Adventure travel companies take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most – enjoying your vacation of a lifetime.

Call us today and schedule your European vacation to submerge yourself in an amazing place and to make memories you will cherish forever.
 

Visiting South America proves to be an adventure vacation like no other. If you read our last adventure travel post on the wine country region of Chile and Argentina, we hope you got a taste for the wonders of their wines, food and culture.

But just off the coast of Ecuador in northern South America, there is another location that no true adventurer will want to miss in their lifetime. The Galapagos Islands represent the epitome of every adventure seekers quest for thrilling and challenging environments rarely seen by tourists.

Water lovers will be absolutely fascinated in the bounty of activities just waiting to be explored. How about getting up close to fearless creatures like 150 year old tortoises weighing 600 pounds?  Did you know you can swim with penguins in the warm waters of Ecuador?

Our adventure trips to the land of Galapagos offers travelers all the kayaking, snorkeling and swimming in richly colored reefs you could ever want. The amazing ecosystem of the area offers scenic views, a large variety of differing wildlife species, geological rock formations and volcanic landscapes that are truly incredible.

After days adventuring on foot and in sea, guests with a need for a little pampering will appreciate the luxury yacht that offers stunning accommodations, gourmet food and drinks and the ultimate in relaxation. Share the Galapagos adventure vacations with us by visiting our online catalog today to get started planning your trip of a lifetime.
 

Any family with kids knows that vacations can create a lot of stress and exhaustion. Some families end up at the same old theme parks or campgrounds each year simply because these locations provide a one stop vacation that doesn’t require a lot of thought or planning to undertake. And while amusement parks and camps do provide some thrilling action, they cannot compare to family adventure vacations Austin Lehman style.

With our adventure travel packages, families can sit back and relax because we have all the details taken care of so that natural bonding can take place between each family member. Activities are planned for each age group so that everyone can bike, kayak, ski or sample wines to their heart’s content. Even adults can spirit a way for a little one on one time while kids are busy occupied with their own adventure activities. Our adventure trips are anything but commonplace.

The old way of family travel involves standing in line in the hot sun for hours to get on the next popular roller coaster ride. Ours is standing under the cooling spray of cascading water as it falls from high above a cliff’s face. Getting outdoors biking, fishing or river rafting brings camaraderie between parents and children without all the crowds. Horseback riding and hiking through picturesque forests get the whole family back in touch with nature and the great outdoors.

And best of all, our vacations include all the lodging, transportation, activities, equipment and great tasting food. Now, that’s a care free family vacation everyone can enjoy!