The Heart of New Hampshire

Spin and enjoy historic architecture, covered bridges, abundant lakes, cool forests, zigzagging rivers and farmland galore!

The Charm of Europe Close to Home! Cycling in Southern New Hampshire is the closest you can get in the USA to the cultural vibe and cycling nirvana of Europe. Spin and enjoy historic architecture, cute outdoor cafes, tiny wineries, fascinating history, tiny villages, cobblestone pathways, covered bridges, abundant lakes, cool forests, zigzagging rivers, farmland, and magic moments galore! Join Ciclismo Founder Lauren Hefferon in her hometown and discover the rich history, pristine landscapes, and gorgeous backroads of the Monadnock Region that inspired her passion for bicycle travel. In every direction, the roads and hamlets along the way connect and lead us to stories of an era and people that formed the foundation of a highly independent and hardy culture determined to rebel from England and establish themselves as among the most self-reliant in America, thus the state’s motto, Live Free or Die. New Hampshirites take their role of protecting their land seriously maintaining some of the most intense conservation programs in the country. For four nights we stay in College town of Keene, the heart of the picture-perfect Monadnock region, known as NH’s cultural corner that is a perfect cycling base offering a variety of gorgeous loops for all cycling abilities and The National Trust for Historic Preservation has added Keene to its list of “America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations,” calling it a “Currier & Ives landscape come to life.”Lauren has selected her favorite cycling loops from Keene that include a dive into the colonial and Native American past of North America.

Each day you’ll experience mile after mile of gorgeous scenery and a glimpse into the connective tissue of our nation’s past. Pedal past and learn about the fascinating historic architecture, art galleries, covered bridges, abundant lakes, cool forests, zigzagging rivers, farmland galore, and daily views of the region’s jewel, Mount Monadnock, (Mountain That Stands Alone) the second most climbed mountain in the world. Known for its presence in the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, it is the most prominent mountain peak between the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Massachusetts Berkshires. We are based for four nights in downtown Keene, a charming and eclectic mix of old-time shops, modern retailers, restaurants, and cool coffee shops. Recently Keene has added 15 stunning historical “Walldog” murals to its downtown landscape that beautifully depict the region’s historic resources and rich cultural heritage. Keene is framed by one of the most beautiful Main Streets in the world with the picturesque (and much-photographed) United Church of Christ at the top of Keene’s Central Square. For photography fans, Lauren will be stopping to show you all of the most photogenic hot spots and for the gravel hungry we have dedicated one day to recreate a mini Eroica experience.

Highlights

• Visits to the historic hamlets and mill towns of Harrisville, Dublin, Gilsum, Surry, Westmorland and West Chesterfield
• Walking tour of downtown Keene including the 13 historic murals with expert historian Allen Rumrill
• Rides along Lake Nubanusit, Silver Lake, Swanzey, Lake Spofford, and the winding Ashuelot and Connecticut rivers
• Pedal over and through the region’s abundant covered bridges and stone bridges
• Visit the Poocham Family Winery and the Walpole Mountain View Winery
• Visits to art galleries and craft shops
• Honey and Liqueur Tastings at Slovenia Beekeeping
• Visit Burdicks (famous) Chocolate Factory in Walpole, NH
• Daily tastings at gelato and farm stands
• A deep and fascinating dive into America’s colonial and Native American past
• The only Southern NH bike tour of its kind
• Hike up Mount Monadnock, the second most climbed mountain in the world (and you’ll find out why
• Led by Lauren Hefferon, native of Keene and Founder of Ciclismo Classico

Women’s Only Weekend October