UTracks

This itinerary is Stage 2 of our epic full length ride of the Spanish Camino. For more than 1000 years the Camino de Santiago has represented the ultimate adventure for pilgrims and history buffs alike. While the 783km French route from Roncesvalles to the Cathedral of Santiago has been well trodden by hiking boots and horse hooves through the centuries, in more recent times the pilgrimage route has become a natural magnet for cyclists seeking out iconic routes. Beginning just over half way along the route in the historic city of Leon, this exhilarating cycle takes in some of the most breathtaking landscapes, unique monuments and typical villages of northern Spain. There are some challenging stages, such as the O Cebreiro Pass, but you will be more than rewarded when you savour the rich Spanish gastronomy, traditional regional cuisine and excellent wines. Each night you'll return to comfortable, atmospheric hotels, which at the end of a hard day's cycle is intrinsic to this cycle itinerary.

Highlights

• Cycling through the magical landscapes of Galicia en route to Santiago de Compostela
• Exploring interesting pilgrimage towns and villages
• Arriving in Santiago and receiving a pilgrimage certificate for cycling almost 300km along the Camino
• Experiencing the terrific sense of camaraderie on the trail
• Soaking up the hospitality of family run hotels

The cycling is moderate to challenging (4) grade with daily cycling distances from 39 to 62km / 24.5 to 39mi over undulating to mountainous terrain. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. Minor roads with reduced traffic are customary

This supported cycle begins from the Lithuanian capital Vilnius and concludes in the Polish capital Warsaw, both famous for their UNESCO World Heritage listed Old towns. The program includes staying at the Druskininkai Spa Resort, cycling in Dzukija National PAN Park in Lithuania, cycling around Suwalki Lakeland with Wigry and Biebrza National Parks in Poland. Experience a variety of towns, villages and countryside for an excellent introduction to the distinct characters of these two countries, which had a common history known as the Polish – Lithuanian Commonwealth in the 16th to 18th centuries! The cultures, languages and cuisines add a fascinating dimension to this unique cycle journey.

Highlights

• Exploring the old towns of Vilnius and Warsaw - designated as World Heritage sites by UNESCO
• Discovering the borderlands of Lithuania and Poland with their gentle hills, sandy plains, vast primeval forests, crystal clear lakes and deep river valleys
• Visiting Dzukijos National Park, the largest in Lithuania
• Biebrza National Park with its vast and relatively untouched fenlands
• Cycling a section of Poland's 'Green Velo' cycle path and the Royal Route through Biebrza National Park

Daily biking routes are mainly on low traffic roads and range from 25 to 57km/16 to 36mi, with the possibility to cycle more km on some days. The terrain is flat most of the tour except a few gradual hills in Lithuania around Trakai and Merkine, and Wigry National Park. The walking in towns is along cobbled streets.

This self guided cycle will take you through the impressive Medoc in the famous Bordeaux wine region. The western section of the Medoc is shrouded in light and sun, and the Atlantic Ocean and its beaches are bordered with an immense forest. The east section along the Gironde Estuary offers views of the winegrowing region. Beginning on the 'wine road', cycle past well known chateaux and through the winegrowing boroughs which produce some of the most prestigious wines in the world. You will explore the diverse landscapes of the Medoc, visit superb Romanic Churches in the villages, and discover some unique Gallo-Romanic sites. The journey follows a mixture of bicycle paths through forests and flat roads alongside streams and vineyards, allowing you to discover the exceptional natural and diverse surroundings of the region. After each day's cycle you will be warmly welcomed in some of the region's best hotels and charming guesthouses.

Highlights

• Visiting the famous wine chateaux and discovering little known vineyards and their wines
• Soaking up the hospitality in small family run hotels
• Cycling through vineyards and marshlands on your way to the coast of France

Riding is over hilly terrain typical of river valleys. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. It is considered suitable for cyclists with a good level of fitness. The journey alternates between following bicycle paths through forests and flat roads alongside streams and vineyards.

The history of the Republic of Venice provides the background to the entire trip. From the canal city of Venice, pass beaches, simple fishing villages and grand palaces as you make your way along the coastline and to the plain of Friuli. Ancient Roman towns and numerous castles are dotted on the route to the lively harbour city of Trieste. With two border crossings to cycle through, the journey ends on the beautiful Croatian coastline in the town of Porec. Staying in specially chosen hotels in the historic centres or along the coastline, this cycle journey offers a perfect combination of historic towns and seaside landscapes.

Highlights

• Exploring the magical city of Venice
• Cycling along the Adriatic coast and across two European borders
• Discovering the history of the Venetian Republic
• Enjoying the culinary specialties such as marinated sardines and spicy meatballs

The first three days are mainly on flat roads, across the Veneto and Friuli plain, while the last three stages are slightly hillier.

The nearby vineyards offer a number of interesting cycle routes on a combination of dedicated cycle paths and minor roads, past rolling vine covered hills and small hamlets brimming with local produce. Sample wines at the cellar door or stop for a leisurely lunch at one of the many restaurants in the region. There is ample time to appreciate the great history of Beaune and a visit to the hospices is a highlight.

Hiighlights

• Cycling through the rolling hills of the stunning Burgundy countryside
• Exploring interesting historical towns and villages
• Enjoying the culinary specialties
• Soaking up the hospitality of a family run hotel in the centre of Beaune

An epic cycle journey of nearly 500km following the banks of the Loire River from Orléans to the Atlantic Coast, following the cycling path 'Loire à vélo'. Discover the royal valley as you cycle along the majestic river where thousands of treasures await including numerous chateaux, wonderful landscapes and regional gastronomic delights. Discover the charms of the western part of the Loire valley, from Angers all the way to St Brevin Les Pins. A chance to visit the typical countryside of vineyards and chateaux, of salterns and marshes, and to finally 'take the plunge' into the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlights

• Discovering many historical towns such as Blois, Tours and Chinon
• Exploring the many grand chateaux
• Sampling some of the many excellent wines in the local vineyards
• Enjoying the culinary specialities of the region

Daily cycles are between 26 and 60km / 16 and 37.5mi on flat to undulating terrain. The cycling is on a combination of dedicated cycle paths and low traffic side roads.

With its impressive old town and dominating position on the Adriatic coast, the city is visually stunning and deserving of both Shaw's remarks and its UNESCO World Heritage status. The trip begins in either Dubrovnik or Split on alternative weeks through the season. In Dubrovnik there is time set aside to explore the narrow streets and lively town by foot, while the islands of southern Dalmatia, extending westerly into the Mediterranean, are best explored by bike and boat. Highlights include visiting the islands of Korcula and Mljet, swimming in secluded coves, discovering the UNESCO listed historic centre of Split and pedalling past small villages amongst lavender fields in Hvar. With a comfortable motor yacht as your base, you will enjoy good food in the company of your fellow cyclists and experienced crew, with ample space on board to relax and absorb the views after each cycling day

Highlights

• Cycling in the Southern Dalmatian islands with dramatic scenery
• Exploring the small towns and villages en route
• Wandering through the alleyways of the UNESCO listed cities of Dubrovnik and Split
• The island of Mljet with its impressive national park
• Soaking up the hospitality onboard the comfortable motor yacht

The day-tours up to 60km/37mi will take us through hilly and mountainous terrain and will be completed without any time-constraints. Participants will also need to master long and steep climbs, during which you may need to push the bike. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned cycle tour. We will traverse mostly asphalted roads, which are rarely traveled on outside the holiday seasons.

From the enchanting alpine lakes of the Salzkammergut, along quiet cycle paths and mountain trails, this multi activity adventure delves into the stunning landscapes to ensure a full appreciation of the Austrian Lakes district. Cycle through pastures and alongside magnificent mountain ringed lakes to the World Heritage town of Hallstatt, the 'Sound of Music' town of Mondsee and the old Kaiser town of Bad Ischl. Explore old castles and ancient salt mines, hike forest trails to view striking glaciers and soak up the warm hospitality of carefully handpicked mountain hotels and guesthouses.

Highlights

• Trek through stunning alpine scenery of the Salzkammergut region of Austria
• Experience the exhilaration of cycling between picturesque lakeside towns
• Take in the immense history of the area from pre historic times
• Enjoying the warm family run hotels

This is a self guided cycle and walk with daily walks between 3-8 hours and 30-55km/18.5-34mi per day cycling. While the paths are well defined and the gradient is not too difficult, the terrain is undulating.

This circuit explores both the coast and Corsica's interior, through deserts, forests and mountains and along stunning coastal roads. There are a multitude of villages and historical sites to explore enroute to the nights accommodation in specially handpicked inns and hotels. During the cycle day you will have several route options, allowing you the flexibility to choose a more demanding or relaxed route with more time for sightseeing. The flexibility, diverse landscapes and welcoming villages ensure your cycle trip in Corsica is exceptional.

Highlights

• Exploring Cape Corsica at handlebar level
• Experiencing the stunning landscape and diverse flora and fauna
• Visiting tiny fishing ports awash in history
• Enjoying the freedom of cycling light with all of your logistics taken care of
• Delighting in the warm hospitality of the accommodation providers

This specially designed trip follows the section south of Prague, from the hills of Cesky Krumlov to the east along the Austrian border. Passing numerous medieval towns where castles and impressive squares dominate, the route offers both diversity as it traverses national parks and wine country and a full appreciation of this captivating pocket of the Czech Republic. Crossing the border at historical Mikulov the route heads south through Austrian vineyards, fields and villages before reaching the cultural city of Vienna.

Highlights

• Cycling through the Czech countryside through woods, the Djie national park and past the Trebon Ponds
• Visiting Prague, Cesky Krumlov and the renaissance towns of Trebon and Telc
• Crossing the border into Austria and arriving in Vienna
• Interesting regional cuisine and a good selection of restaurants for dining out