Cycling Adventures 2016 by Explore Worldwide

Cycling ADVENTURES

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LLLLLLLLLLL Europe

Welcome LLLLLLLLLLL TO

Explore

Welcome to the Explore Cycling Adventures brochure. Inside you will find an inspiring selection of cycling holidays around the world. We have trips for all - from the casual, occasional cyclist to the dedicated enthusiast. With Chris Froome having won the Tour de France for an amazing second time in 2015 and Cavendish adding another stage win to his collection, British cycling success is helping to inspire more and more people to get out on their bikes. While we can’t all emulate the cycling prowess of such athletes, making a journey on two wheels can provide its own sense of achievement. If you like to meet new people, and a leader to take care of all the daily arrangements our small group cycling holidays are perfect. All of our routes are carefully chosen to keep away from busy roads wherever possible so you’ll get to see some out of the way places while not missing out on your destination’s highlights.

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12 Middle East and Africa

There’s no pressure to cycle with the whole group; on many trips people tend to break off and cycle alongside others who are going at a similar pace. There’s loads of time to stop and take photos, interact with local people and buy refreshments. For those who would rather travel just with their partner or friends, take a look at our ever-expanding range of self-guided cycling holidays in Europe. Armed with detailed route maps, a destination guide and notes, you can pedal off at your own pace making as many or as few stops along the away as you like. See pages 78-91 for more details. However you like to cycle and wherever you would like to pedal next, I do hope you’ll join us on a trip soon.

Happy Cycling PAGE

Ashley Toft Managing Director

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Asia and the Pacific

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52 Americas

The

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68 Self-Guided

General

Information

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78 or visit www.explore.co.uk

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Why Explore? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been operating adventurous and inspiring holidays for over 35 years. In that time we have built up a wealth of travel expertise to draw upon. Our team of dedicated cycling experts are passionate about creating trips which take you through some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most impressive landscapes and bring you into contact with local cultures and people. You can just relax and enjoy the cycling, knowing that all the routes have been carefully thought out using the expertise of our cycling partners all over the world.

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WHY EXPLORE?

ABOUT OUR CYCLING HOLIDAYS Included Bike Hire and Vehicle Support

Small, Sociable Groups On our group trips, there are generally around 8-12 people. The maximum group size is 16. Sharing the adventure with a small group of like-minded cyclists is part of the experience. Our cycling groups are made up of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Usually half are travelling on their own and the rest as couples or groups of friends. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll quickly find yourself making new friends and enjoying the camaraderie.

On all of our cycling trips we supply good quality hybrid touring bikes, road or mountain bikes, chosen to best suit the route and terrain. The cost of hiring these bikes is included in our prices; there is no hidden extra for you to pay. Where practical, a support vehicle is always close to hand to provide back-up in case itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needed. We take care of moving your luggage from one hotel to the next, so all you carry while cycling is what you may want throughout the day.

Routes and Terrain

Explore Leader/Cycle Guide

Our carefully researched routes generally follow quiet, traffic-free back roads or cycle paths, with some off-road sections on fine gravel or dirt tracks. We avoid main roads wherever possible. We give a guide to cycling distances on the trip pages. More detailed route and terrain information can be found on our website from where you can download detailed Trip Notes for each holiday.

Each cycling trip, excluding self-guided, will be accompanied by an Explore Leader. With first-hand knowledge of cycling routes and local customs our leaders ensure that your holiday runs smoothly and safely. They will ensure that everyone gets a chance to rest and no-one will be left behind, allowing you to cycle at your own pace wherever possible. Our leaders help to turn great cycle trips into outstanding ones.

Loyalty Discounts Over 60% of our customers have travelled with us before and many travel with us again and again. As a way of saying thank you, we offer our loyal customers the following discounts: Save 5% when booking your 5th to 9th Explore trip

SAVE UP TO

10%

Save 10% when booking your 10th and all subsequent Explore trips

Trusted and ATOL Protected 2016 marks our 35th year operating adventure holidays. In that time we have earned the trust of thousands of customers who travel with us year after year. For added peace of mind, we are fully protected by ATOL so that in the unlikely event of any problems with airlines or our other travel partners, your payment is safe.

Please see www.explore.co.uk/ loyaltydiscounts for more information.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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A World of Choice With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. We’re here to help you choose the cycling holiday that’s perfect for you. We’ve graded all of our cycling holidays on the level of physical challenge you can expect and also categorised the type of accommodation you’ll be staying in. Destination and duration are also important and you’ll need to decide if you would like to travel as part of a small group or travel just with your friends and family on a self-guided trip. By using the information below and on the table opposite you can narrow down the choices to hone in on your perfect holiday.

Accommodation Grade

We’ve graded our cycling holidays by taking into account daily cycling distances, as well as the terrain, altitude and the amount of ascent. When a trip falls between two grades we use an intermediate grade e.g. Easy to Moderate. Each trip is clearly marked with its grade. For more detailed information, see our Trip Notes which can be downloaded from the trip pages of our website.

As a guide, we’ve allocated an accommodation grade to all our trips. Standards may vary depending on which country you are visiting but on the majority of our trips we use standard quality three star hotels chosen for their location and suitability for our style of travel.

Easy

E E R AT

Moderate

EASY

Choosing your trip

L E N GI

Challenging

Easy grade trips are Medium length rides Longer and more suitable for anyone are suitable for cyclists demanding, these who enjoys easy and who are used to trips are for cyclists relatively short rides on undulating routes with who enjoy hilly terrain flat or gently undulating occasional energetic with some challenging terrain. They are ideal climbs. You will mainly ascents. The routes if you want to explore cycle on trails and quiet require a good level of a region by bike at a roads; you should have fitness and may include relaxed pace. a reasonable level some non-technical, of fitness. off-road riding.

Simple These are usually small, family-run hostels or guesthouses which provide a no-frills experience with adequate amenities and service standards. Standard Our standard, mid-range accommodation offers a good level of service, often with other amenities such as a restaurant, bar, garden or swimming pool. Generally rooms will be comfortable with en suite facilities. On some trips which are graded standard, there may be a night or two in more basic or more comfortable accommodation; see trip pages for more information. Premium On a few trips we use more comfortable accommodation with excellent facilities and a higher level of comfort and service, providing the perfect wind down after active days.

Point 2 Point (P2P) On our ‘point to point’ trips your entire journey is made by pedal power. Explore on two wheels without the need for bus or car transport. Point to Point trips are highlighted with this symbol in the brochure:

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A WORLD OF CHOICE

Small Group Trips Countries Easy

Trip Name

Trip Code

Austria - Germany Burma (Myanmar) Czech Republic - Germany Finland France France India Italy Italy Italy Lithuania - Latvia - Estonia Mexico Poland - Slovakia Russia Turkey Vietnam Vietnam - Cambodia

Along the Blue Danube P2P Burma by Bike Prague to Meissen by Bike P2P NEW Cycle Finland: Turku Archipelago Canal du Midi P2P Loire Valley Cycling P2P Backroads of Kerala Cycle Western Sicily Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice Puglia on Two Wheels Cycling the Baltic States NEW Cycle Mexico - The Yucatan Peninsula Pedalling in Poland Cycle Russia - Moscow to St. Petersburg Cappadocia Freewheel Cycle Vietnam Mekong Delta and Angkor PREMIUM TRIP

CBD CBR CCZ CFT CCM LV CKB CSI CDV CIP CBS CMX CPP CRU CCF CVN CVE

NEW Cycle Flanders: Bruges to Brussels P2P Costa Rica on Two Wheels Highlights of Cuba by Bicycle Malta and Gozo by Bike Pyrenees to the Med P2P

Cycle Grade

Days

Page

Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy

9 14 8 7 8 8 13 8 8 8 9 9 8 9 8 14 13

38 59 33 32 18 19 54 26 27 28 34 75 36 31 42 63 66

CBF CCR CSC CML CPM

Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate

7 14 8 8 8

39 74 71 23 21

Cycle Burma Cambodia by Bike Cycle the Dalmatian Coast Cycle Cuba! NEW Cycle the Lake District Velo en Provence P2P NEW Cycle Marseille to Barcelona Bavaria by Bike Cycling Rajasthan Cycle Ireland Israel by Bike NEW Cycle Emilia Romagna P2P Cycle Tuscany - Florence, Chianti and Siena P2P Cycle Japan Cycle Jordan Southern Oasis Cycling Cycle the Cape NEW Andalucia by Bike Cycle the Camino de Santiago Cycle Sri Lanka Southern Thailand by Bike NEW Bangkok to Saigon by Bike Cycle Saigon to Hanoi

CBUR CCB CCD CCC CTL CVP CFS CBA CIR CEI CIS CER CTY CJA CJP CSO CTC CSP CCDS CSL CTH CTV CVIE

Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate

14 13 8 15 4 8 8 8 14 7 9 8 8 13 9 8 10 13 8 14 9 14 14

60 62 41 72 16 19 20 37 56 14 49 30 24 58 48 46 50 22 21 57 61 65 64

Cycle Albania Cycle the Backroads of Cuba Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal Turkish Backroads and Coastal Towns P2P

CAB CUC CNCP CTK

Moderate to Challenging Moderate to Challenging Moderate to Challenging Moderate to Challenging

8 15 14 8

40 70 77 43

Challenging Challenging Challenging

4 5 9

15 17 25

Days

Page

Easy to Moderate Belgium Costa Rica Cuba Malta Spain

Moderate Burma (Myanmar) Cambodia Croatia Cuba England France France - Spain Germany India Ireland Israel Italy Italy Japan Jordan Morocco South Africa Spain Spain Sri Lanka Thailand Thailand - Cambodia - Vietnam Vietnam

Moderate to Challenging Albania Cuba Costa Rica - Nicaragua - Panama Turkey

Challenging England England - France Italy

Cycling Coast to Coast P2P NEW Cycle London to Paris P2P NEW Cycle Italy Coast to Coast P2P

C2C CLP CUT

Self-Guided Trips Countries Easy

Trip Name

Trip Code

Cycle Grade

France France Germany - Austria Greece Italy Italy Italy Netherlands Spain Switzerland - Germany - Austria

Self-Guided Cycling Burgundy P2P Self-Guided Loir and Sarthe Cycling PREMIUM TRIP P2P Self-Guided Danube Cycling - Passau to Vienna NEW Self-Guided Athens and Saronic Islands by Bike Self-Guided Cycling Pisa to Florence P2P Self-Guided Dolomites to Lake Garda Ride P2P Self-Guided Puglia Cycling NEW Self-Guided Highlights of Holland by Bike P2P NEW Self-Guided Cycling in Mallorca P2P NEW Self-Guided Lake Constance by Bike P2P

CSBU CSLV CSBD CSGR CSTY CSDV CSIP CSNL CSMA CSLC

Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy Easy

7 7 8 8 8 7 7 7 8 7

83 84 82 91 87 89 89 80 86 82

Self-Guided Cycling Canal de la Garonne P2P NEW Self-Guided Cycle Venice to Porec NEW Self-Guided Cycling Amsterdam to Bruges P2P NEW Self-Guided Cycle South Portugal P2P Self-Guided Catalonia Cycling Self-Guided Rioja Cycling PREMIUM TRIP P2P NEW Self-Guided Cycling in Asturias P2P

CSVP CSIC CSAB CSPO CSPM CSRR CSAS

Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate Easy to Moderate

7 7 8 8 8 7 8

83 90 80 87 84 85 86

NEW Self-Guided Alpe Adria Bike Path NEW Self-Guided Cycle Via Francigena to Rome P2P Self-Guided Cycle Camino de Santiago PREMIUM TRIP P2P

CSAA CSVF CSCS

Moderate Moderate Moderate

8 9 10

91 90 85

Easy to Moderate France Italy - Slovenia - Croatia Netherlands - Belgium Portugal Spain Spain Spain

Moderate Austria - Italy Italy Spain

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SELF-GUIDED CYCLING TRIPS

Self-Guided Cycling trips If you prefer to travel semi-independently, but with all the logistical planning taken care of, try our range of self-guided cycling holidays.

Using our detailed route notes and maps and with luggage transferred, you can explore at your own pace with the flexibility of departing on any day of the week and extending the trip by a day or two if you wish. Getting to your destination

Accommodation

We recommend the most suitable airports or train stations to use for each trip and recommended latest arrival/departure times (to fit with the public transport options). We provide detailed information to assist you in reaching your start hotel and leaving your end hotel by public transport or we can arrange private transfers.

Our hotels are hand-selected for their character, comfort and warm welcome. We use a wide range of 2 to 4 star accommodation, all with en suite facilities. If you want a higher standard of hotel look out for our trips with Premium grade accommodation. In many places we stay for two nights, giving you the option to cycle or take a break from the bikes and explore on foot or relax instead.

Your luggage

Finding your way

Your main luggage will be transferred from hotel to hotel for you. While cycling you will just need to carry your essentials in a lightweight rucksack or pannier (provided on most trips). You’ll be reunited with the rest of your belongings when you reach your next night’s accommodation.

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We’ll supply you with detailed, accurate and easy to follow route notes and maps so that you can find your way. There are often choices given which allow you to extend a ride or go via a more challenging route if you wish. To ensure you get the most out of your stops as well as the

rides, we will provide you with useful information. Our insider tips include everything from where to go sightseeing to where the best cappuccinos are sold!

Bikes A good quality bike suited to the route and terrain is included in the price of your holiday. More details are provided on each trip page and our website but generally these are hybrid or touring bikes. All bikes come with a lock, puncture repair kit and a pump. Many bikes are fitted with a pannier bag to carry the items you’ll need during the ride. Local support is on hand in the rare event of a problem with your bike, although you will need to be able to fix your own punctures.

Electric Bikes To help take the strain, we offer the option of electric bikes on certain self-guided holidays. Electric bikes (or E-Bikes) assist you when it gets tough; especially on uphill sections or longer rides. This allows you to conserve your energy for later, and makes your experience much more enjoyable if you don’t like uphill. You can then throw yourself into the easier ascents, flat parts and descents, and the bike will recharge when you’re using your own pedal power. If you’re interested in using an electric bike, just enquire at the time of booking. See pages 78-91 for our collection of Self-guided cycling trips.

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FLIGHTS

Fly me from... If you want to book a flight inclusive trip with Explore, we are delighted to be able to offer you a range of competitive and flexible flight options. We can organise flights from most of the UK’s regional airports and from Dublin. These are either direct to your final destination or via a connecting airport. Flight inclusive packages booked with Explore are fully bonded. We will manage any changes required in the event of any trip or airline schedule amendments after you have booked. If you choose to book your own flights you are responsible for the associated costs of any changes. 1. Group Flights On many trips we hold a group of competitively priced seats with the airline which exactly fit the departure and return dates. Our flight inclusive price usually includes these flights. They depart from London and may offer limited regional connections. When you travel on a group flight you pay only the deposit for your trip at the time of booking and we manage any changes.

2. Contract Flights Where we do not hold group flights, we negotiate rates with preferred airline partners. These fares are competitive and are also suitable if you are extending your stay before or after your trip. You may be required to pay a higher than normal deposit for your trip to secure the best available fare.

3. Market Rate Flights We will seek to match the best fares available in the open market including those from low cost carriers like Easyjet. Fares fluctuate on a daily basis and are almost exclusively based upon a non-refundable pre-payment. For each of the above options, Explore charge a small administration fee. Once you have booked a flight with us as part of your trip, we are normally responsible for managing any changes that might affect your flight.

4. Booking your own flights: You may prefer to purchase your own flights and book with Explore on a ‘Land Only’ basis. You may get the best available flight price, but we would like to make you aware of the responsibilities that this carries:

n Your flight ticket cost is not necessarily bonded in the event of either airline failure or the failure of the travel agent you booked it through. You will usually have to pay in full at the time of booking.

n In the event that your trip is amended or cancelled, you will be liable for the cost of your flight which may have limited, or no refund value.

n If you are planning to book ‘Land Only’ we strongly recommend that you purchase flights (or other associated travel services) that are totally flexible and refundable.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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CONNECT WITH US

Connect with us

Picture this... One of the best things about travel is that it gives you loads of interesting stories and pictures to share with your friends and family. Use Explore’s social media to extend your reach or enter our calendar photo competition to be in with a chance of sharing your best photos via next year’s Cycling Adventures brochure! @ US! Facebook Instagram Are you a travelling Join our largest online They say a picture is worth a community where we keep you thousand words. Follow us on tweeter? Enjoy a holiday up to date with the latest offers, Instagram for incredible travel hashtag? Do you check-YOUTUBE LOGO SPECS brand new trips, inspiring travel photography from all around in on Facebook before images and all the latest on the world. Tag us in your own on light backgrounds backgrounds you’ve checked-in at the everything Explore. facebook. on dark images and we’ll share your com/ExploreWorldwide snaps. @explore.worldwide standard standard hotel? We’d love to see PMS 1815C photos, videos, tweets PMS 1795CTwitter YouTube and updates from your For the latest from Explore Subscribe to our YouTube bite size chunks of 140 Explore adventures. Tag or in BLACK channel and enjoy regular no gradients no gradients WHITE characters or less, follow us on travel videos taken on trips mention us in your posts Twitter and tell us about your by our staff and customers. so we can retweet, regram adventure travel experiences. Take a sneak peek at life on and share your glorious @Explore_chat an Explore trip as we travel watermark watermark content with the masses! the globe with our GoPro

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C0 M96 Y90 K2

C13 M96 Y81 K54

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C0 M0 Y0 K0

C100 M100 Y100 K100

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#Don’t just travel 10

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stacked logo (for sharing only)

Calendar photo competition If you’d like the chance for one of your photographs to be featured in the annual Explore calendar, simply pick out your favourite high resolution snaps and email them to marketing@explore.co.uk with the subject line ‘Calendar Competition’. Don’t forget to include your name and some information about where the photo was taken!

Another year of inspirational images…

2015

Calendar Calendar pages 2015.indd

19/11/2014 17:14

For full details, go to www.explore.co.uk/calendar

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THE EXPLORE ETHOS

The Explore Ethos People choose to travel with Explore for many reasons. Our original, inspiring and great value trips, the service provided by our multi-awardwinning leaders and the knowledge that Explore has taken care of all the organisation, planning and logistics.

Going local...

Caring for our Planet

We really believe in taking you to the heart of the country you are visiting while also helping to improve the lives of the local communities we visit. This philosophy has earned the trust of thousands of customers who travel with us year after year.

At Explore we’re passionate about enriching lives through adventure travel. Take a look at what we’ve been up to over the last couple of years.

n 95% of our Explore Leaders are from the place you are visiting, ensuring you experience the country through the eyes of a local

n We generally stay in locally-owned hotels and on some trips, also

For every flight we book, we donate to TRAINED over 400 leaders from 90 countries

TWINNED All of our toilets at Explore HQ

homestays, to better understand and learn about local culture.

n We support the Born Free Foundation and are passionate about the fair treatment of animals on our trips.

n We are preventing people from cutting down the Amazon rainforest

PROTECTED 40,080 Trees

by working with local communities through Cool Earth.

Explore Leader Awards Our amazing Explore Leaders are crucial to the success of our group holidays. In order to recognise the contribution of the best of the best, we would like to encourage you to vote for your leader in our annual Explore Leader Awards. The winning leaders receive a cash prize as well as a bursary to spend on a charity of their choice plus the chance to visit the UK. So if your leader has made your holiday extra special, please take a few moments to vote for them by visiting www.explore.co.uk/leaderawards

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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BUILT a canoe so that kids in Uganda don’t have to walk miles to school REMOVED Over 2 tonnes of rubbish from Mt Toubkal in Morocco

Endangered species protected REDUCED Our electrical consumption at Explore HQ by 30%

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Europe Cycling in Europe is as varied as it is rewarding. The world’s most extensive network of dedicated cycle paths and secondary roads with very little traffic have allowed us to create a range of interesting and engaging trips to suit every interest and level of physical activity desired. Choose from gentle and relaxed routes along river valleys and canals, moderate rides through undulating countryside and the challenge of the big hills. You’ll enjoy your surroundings on the bike as well as soaking up the history, admiring the art and indulging in some of the best food and wine to be found.

Insider View “With such a rich and varied history and an incredible range of landscapes there are endless opportunities for a cycle holiday in Europe. From mountainous routes in as diverse locations as Turkey, Albania and England to lowlands and river valleys such as the Danube or Canal du Midi in southern France, there is something for everyone.” James Adkin, Explore Cycling Programme Manager

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Albania

Italy

Austria

Ireland

Belgium NEW

Latvia

Croatia

Lithuania

Czech Republic

Malta

England

Poland

Estonia

Russia

Finland NEW

Spain

France

Turkey

Germany

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EUROPE

Cycle Ireland M

IRELAND

FROM

£872 £699

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CEI ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights standard guesthouse, 1 night standard lodge. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader, driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Cycle Ireland’s picturesque Ring of Kerry.

Slea head cycle

TRALEE Ballyferriter

Camp From Shannon Airport

Blasket Interpretive Centre

DINGLE Annascaul KILLARNEY GLENBEIGH

Lough Lough Caragh Leane Carrauntoohil (1038m) Killarney National Park Lough Sneem Waterville Currane

IRELAND

DAILY DISTANCES

CAHERDANIEL 0 km

26 km

Day 2

67km

Day 3

58km

Day 4

41km

Day 5 Day 6

49km

The Kerry coastline is for many the most beautiful on the Emerald Isle. On this seven day trip you will cycle through the spectacular Killarney National Park and see treasures including Muckross House and Lough Leane. Pass beneath Ireland’s highest peak, the mighty Carrauntoohil, and explore the many pretty small villages and towns along Kerry’s beautiful coastline. Cycle the world-famous Slea Head loop on the Dingle Peninsula and take in the remarkable views of the Blasket Islands on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

DAY

Join trip in Killarney.

Cycle Killarney through Sneem to Catherdaniel.

Ride to Glenbeigh via the mighty Macgillycuddy Reeks.

Cycle the famous Slea Head Loop to Dingle.

At leisure in Dingle. Optional cycle rides or relax in one of the quirky local pubs.

Cycle through beautiful mountainous landscapes to Tralee, the capital of Kerry.

Trip ends at Shannon Airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

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JUL AUG SEP

DAY

‘

If you enjoy riding on coastal roads and through lush green valleys, this is the trip for you. Glenn

Go online for departure dates

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EUROPE

FROM

ENGLAND

£295

Cycling Coast to Coast L E N GI

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

TRIP CODE: C2C ACCOMMODATION: Simple CYCLE GRADE: Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 1 night standard hotel, 1 night simple hostel, 1 night simple guesthouse. MEALS: 3 full English breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver. BIKE: 21 gear Ridgeback Meteor hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Cross England by pedal power.

SCOTLAND NORTH SEA

CHEVIOT HILLS T ALLENHEADS Solway Firth

Alston

Greystoke

Keswick

yn Newcastle e upon Tyne Tynemouth

PENRITH E de

WHITEHAVEN

CUMBRIAN MOUNTAINS

Consett Stanhope Wear Te es

THE PENNINES

DAILY DISTANCES

ENGLAND IRISH SEA 0 km

Day 2

50 km

86km

Day 3

54km

Day 4

85km

On this cycling trip we cross the breadth of England on two wheels from Whitehaven on the Irish Sea to Tynemouth on the North Sea. This classic coast to coast challenge cycles through some of the wildest and most spectacular landscapes in the north of England; discovering the dramatic beauty of the Lake District, Eden Valley and the rugged North Pennines.

DAY

Join trip in Whitehaven on the Irish Sea.

Cycle through the Lake District, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Cross the North Pennines by pedal power.

Cycle to Tynemouth on the North Sea, where the trip ends.

‘

A truly great experience from start to finish. This trip had everything; great scenery, challenging climbs, excellent company and a wonderful leader. Keith A

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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EUROPE

Cycle the Lake District M

FROM

ENGLAND

£350

E E R AT

New Trip

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

TRIP CODE: CTL ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 3 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide. BIKE: 21 gear Ridgeback Meteor hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Explore the beauty of the lakes on two wheels.

GREAT LANGDALE

ENGLAND Tarn Hows Coniston

nis

ton

BOWNESS-ONWINDERMERE

Hawkshead

GRISEDALE FOREST

0 km

DAILY DISTANCES

Hill Top Farm Lake Windermere

6 km

Day 2

37/43km

Day 3

44/55km

Day 4a

25km

Day 4b

30km

Optional Rides

= Spend three days cycling through the Lake District National Park’s most scenic landscapes, exploring picturesque villages, rugged mountain panoramas, lakes and impressive valleys. We cycle on a combination of quiet country lanes, traffic-free bridleways and purpose-built cycle paths. Some of our routes will take advantage of the superb network of newly surfaced cycle routes that criss-cross the South Lakes, allowing cyclists time to enjoy the breath-taking scenery away from traffic.

DAY

Join trip in Bowness-onWindermere.

Cycle traffic-free cycle paths around Lake Windermere.

Explore the idyllic villages of Elterwater, Coniston and Hawkshead.

Cycle east of Windermere Lake. Trip ends in Bowness-onWindermere.

‘

As well as being a celebrated wonderland for walkers, The Lake District is a superb area to explore by bike with a network of quiet country lanes and cycle paths crisscrossing the outstanding rural landscape. Jason T

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUL AUG SEP

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‘

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03/09/2015 13:26

EUROPE

FROM

£595

ENGLAND - FRANCE

L E N GI

New Trip

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

Cycle London to Paris

TRIP CODE: CLP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights standard hotel, 1 night simple boat. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver. BIKE: 21 gear Trek T10 Navigator hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, ferry. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

London

ENGLAND South Downs NP Portsmouth

Overnight Ferry

Ouistreham

CAEN

FRANCE 0 km

LES ANDELYS

LISIEUX

DAILY DISTANCES

Giverny Monet’s Garden

Day 1 PARIS

60 km

Champs-Élysées

116km

Day 2

84km

Day 3

104km

Day 4

134km

Join us on this classic cycle challenge between two iconic capital cities. Our scenic route takes us through the beautiful countryside of Surrey and Normandy, past D-Day battle sites and medieval towns and villages. Along the way you can reward your taste buds with great local cuisine, fine cheeses, crepes, cider and Calvados. We celebrate reaching Paris with a ride past historic landmarks and down the famous Champ-Elysees.

DAY

Join trip in Battersea Park, London. Cycle through the Surrey Hills and South Downs to Portsmouth.

Cycle Normandy countryside via D-Day battle sites to Lisieux.

Ride through beautiful HauteNormandie, with the River Seine.

Monet’s garden at Giverny to the ChampsElysees; ride to Paris.

Trip ends in Paris. Either fly or train back to the UK.

A challenging ride between two great cities – from London across the South Downs to Portsmouth and then through Normandy to Paris.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 17

To/from Lille

Eteang de Thou

03/09/2015 13:26

EUROPE

Canal du Midi

FROM

FRANCE

EASY

£882 £699

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CCM ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver. BIKE: 21 gear Trek T10 Navigator hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, train. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

‘

Susan

Villepinte Optional rides

‘

My best memories are of cycling through the pines to the chirruping of cicadas, along the towpath in the dappled shade.

Chateau de Lastours

FRANCE

Optional swim Jouarres

Bram

BÉZIERS

DAILY DISTANCES

Oppidium d’Ensérun

Minerve

Canal du Midi

CARCASSONNE LEZIGNANCORBIERES

Eteang de Thou

Day 2

Valras Plage

9 Locks of Fonserannes

NARBONNE

Mediterranean Sea

Narbonne Plage Optional rides Eteang de Peyriac Bages

0 km

30 km

45km

Day 3

35km

Day 4

33/56km

Day 5

56km

Day 6

55km

Day 7

35/70km

Optional Rides

Cycling some of the tree-lined path along the Canal du Midi, this trip leads us from ancient Roman cities to the Mediterranean coast. Ride through the natural beauty of the Corbieres region and absorb the rich history from the 12th century cathedral in Narbonne to the medieval fortress town of Carcassonne.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

4/5

Join trip at Carcassonne Airport then drive to historic Beziers.

Optional ride to Valras Plage. Circular route back to Beziers.

Cycle south along waterways and country lanes. Ride to Narbonne.

Optional circular cycle routes via Gruissan and Fontfroid back to Narbonne.

Cycle the vineyards, farms and towpaths; ride to Carcassonne.

View the walled fortress of Carcassonne; cycle locally.

Trip ends in Carcassonne.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 18

DAY

A cycling trip following France’s historic Canal du Midi.

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:26

EUROPE

Velo en Provence M

£897 £679

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CVP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

FROM

FRANCE

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver. BIKE: 21 gear Trek T10 Navigator hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, taxi. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

Go online for departure dates

Riding our bikes through the heart of Provence, we visit ancient vineyards, hilltop villages and discover the landscapes that inspired Vincent Van Gogh. We cycle past ancient ‘bories’ (stone houses) in Luberon, Roman remains in Orange and St-Remy-de-Provence, stopping to visit the region’s elegant Romanesque abbeys. We make frequent stops to enjoy mouth-watering Provencal cuisine and local wines.

Loire Valley Cycling £945 £745

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: LV ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

FRANCE

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver. BIKE: 21 gear Trek T10 Navigator hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, taxi. GROUP SIZE: Generally 8 - 14.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

JUL AUG SEP

Go online for departure dates

Bountiful vineyards, fruit orchards and delightful villages all explain why the beautiful Loire Valley is known as ‘The Garden of France’. On this relaxed ride we follow quiet country roads from Chenonceax to Chinon: we explore the medieval chateau perched on an island in Azay-le-Rideau, visit Leonardo da Vinci’s final home at Clos Luce and discover the elegant Fontevraud Abbey in Anjou.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 19

03/09/2015 13:26

EUROPE

Cycle Marseille to Barcelona M

FROM

FRANCE - SPAIN

£1082 £850

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

E E R AT

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CFS ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Stevens Galant SX or Radon TCS 6.0 hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, train, ferry. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

A cycle journey around the Mediterranean.

FRANCE

SAINTES MARIES DE LA MER Camargue N.P

Beziers

SETE

MARSEILLE Panier district Old Port

Canal du Midi

COLLIOURE

Mediterranean Sea

Llanca

FIGUERES

Dali Museum

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

TORROELLA DE MONTGRI

SPAIN

Empuries Greek ruins

Saint Feliu de Guixols

BARCELONA

Gaudi Modernist Architecture

0 km

100 km

35km

Day 3

70km

Day 4

52km

Day 5

35km

Day 6

45km

Day 7

49km

Join us on this cycling exploration of the Mediterranean coast from Marseille to Barcelona. Along the way we discover medieval towns and villages, the wild beauty of the Camargue, the Canal du Midi, vineyards, cork oak forests, Greek and Roman remains and the inviting beaches of Catalonia. We also travel by train and bus cycling the most interesting sections between the historic port cities of Marseille and Barcelona.

DAY

Join trip in Marseille.

Explore old Marseille on foot then cycle the protected wetlands of the Camargue.

Spot flamingos and white horses on our ride to the ancient port city Sete.

Cycle the Canal du Midi to historic Bezier. Train ride to medieval coastal town Collioure.

Ride into Spain on coastal road through vineyards. Train onto Figueres, home to Dali museum.

Cycle through rolling hills of the Emporda with great beaches and Greek settlement remains.

Ride through medieval villages and cork oak forests to Sant Feliu de Guixols on the Mediterranean.

Trip ends in Barcelona.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 20

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:26

EUROPE

Cycle the Camino de Santiago M

£968 £785

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CCDS ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

FROM

SPAIN

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Stevens Galant SX or Radon TCS 6.0 hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUL SEP

Go online for departure dates

Following the route of ancient pilgrims we cycle sections of the legendary trail to Santiago de Compostela - the resting place of Saint James. The trip follows the last 200 kilometres of the scenic route through northern Spain, starting on the high plains of the Castilian meseta. We ascend into the fertile region of the Bierzo and traverse the rolling hills of Galicia to the delightful city of Santiago.

M O D ER

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CPM ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate

FROM

£878 £695

FROM

SPAIN

AT E

Pyrenees to the Med

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver. BIKE: 27 gear Stevens Galant SX or Radon TCS 6.0 hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, train, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN AUG SEP

Go online for departure dates

Ride with us on scenic dedicated cycle paths from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean coast. We pedal through northern Spain’s volcanic countryside and ancient walled villages to the port town of Sant Feliu de Guixols. We also stroll through the Ramblas in Barcelona, explore the medieval back streets in Girona and enjoy some delicious Catalan cuisine.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 21

03/09/2015 13:26

EUROPE

Andalucia by Bike M

FROM

SPAIN

£1396 £1195

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

E E R AT

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CSP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 12 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Stevens Galant SX or Radon TCS 6.0 hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

COLOMBIA

ECUADOR

DAILY DISTANCES

Discover the region’s natural beauty, diversity and rich history.

Day 2

31km

Day 3

50km

Day 4

34km

Day 5 Day 6

50km

Day 7 Day 8 CORDOBA La Mezquita

SPAIN

GUADIX

Ecija

La Peza

SEVILLE

Alhambra

Alcornocales N.P

TARIFA

Olvera

43km

Day 10

38km

Day 11

GRANADA

Cathedral

Puerto Serrano Grazalema N.P

Canyons and desert

35km

Day 9

Day 12

47km

La Calahorra Alhama de Granada

RONDA

Velez-Malaga

MALAGA Mediterranean Sea

0 km

100 km

Discover the beauty and diversity of Andalucia as we explore the region by bike. We cycle on quiet backroads with varied scenery from stunning natural parks to deserts, canyon lands and mountains. Along the way we discover a rich Moorish heritage reflected in the food, language and architecture, most notably in Seville, Cordoba and Granada. We also spend time in the wind surfing town of Tarifa, the impressive location of Ronda and a unique cave hotel in Guadix.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

4/5

8/9

Join trip in Malaga.

Cycle in the natural park with great views over the straits of Gibraltar to charming Tarifa.

Cycle on quiet backroads up the Guadalquivir valley to the important Moorish city of Cordoba.

Rest day in Cordoba and chance to visit the remarkable Mezquita mosque.

Cycle through the desert and canyon lands of Hoya de Guadix. Stay in unique cave hotel.

Ride the old road to Granada passing through the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Explore the historic city of Granada. Visit the Alhambra, Moorish quarter and Arabic Baths.

Scenic cycling through the mountains of Alhama. Drive to Malaga.

Trip ends in Malaga.

Cycle with Ride cycle stunning path from scenery in the Ronda then natural parks time to explore of Alcornocales the beautiful and Grazalema. city of Seville. Drive to Ronda.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 22

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:26

EUROPE

FROM

MALTA

£885 £695

AT E

Malta and Gozo by Bike M O D ER

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CML ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches are included. STAFF: Explore Leader, Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear Focus Raven, Trek 4300 or Lombardo Sestriere mountain bike with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, ferry. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Cycle the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo. Zebbug

Xaghra Ggantija Temples

GOZO Mgarr Harbour

VICTORIA

Cirkewwa Mediterranean Sea

MALTA

SLIEMA Mdina Walking tour

0 km

15 km

Valletta City tour Marsaskala Fishing Village

DAILY DISTANCES

Zurrieq Mnajdra and Hagar Qim Blue Grotto Temples (optional)

Day 2

18km

Day 3

19km

Day 4

20km

Day 5

21km

Day 6

11km

10 Discover the unique culture and fascinating history of the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo. On the smaller island of Gozo we take two gentle loop rides that offer ancient archeological treasures, coastal panoramas and the ancient citadel of Victoria. In Malta we cycle coastal routes, visit mysterious megalithic temples, an olive estate and the impressive capital Valletta.

DAY

Join trip at Malta Airport. Drive and ferry to Victoria, capital of the island of Gozo.

Cycle loop ride with wonderful views on quiet roads to the Azure Window and Inland Sea.

Ride to the mysterious megalithic Ggantija temples in Xaghra. Ferry to Malta.

Cycle on winding country roads past Dingli Cliffs, Hagar Qim Temples and the Blue Grotto.

Cycle past defensive towers, enjoy sea views and end our ride at Paradise Bay.

Morning ride to Marsaskala fishing village. Afternoon optional Valletta Grand Harbour boat trip.

Discover the beautiful and historic Old City of Valletta on a walking tour. Sample local food delicacies.

Trip ends at Malta Airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY OCT NOV

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 23

DAY

‘

I cannot recommend your cycling in Malta trip more highly! Dudley B

‘ 23

03/09/2015 13:27

EUROPE

Cycle Tuscany - Florence, Chianti and Siena M

£982 £799

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CTY ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

FROM

ITALY

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights standard hotel, 2 nights standard agriturismo, 1 night premium hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Focus Black Hills mountain bikes with hybrid tyres and lockable front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Ride through the heart of classic Tuscany: vineyards and hilltop towns. FLORENCE PISA

Impruneta

Greve Panzano

CASTELLINA IN CHIANTI Radda Monteriggioni

SIENA

Pianella

PIEVE A SALTI

‘LA CRETE’ REGION

ITALY

Vertine Gaiole Castel do Brolio

Murlo Buonconvento Montalcino

23 km

0 km

DAILY DISTANCES

Monte Oliveto Maggiore Abbey

MONTEPULCIANO Pienza

Day 2

51km

Day 3

54km

Day 4 San Quirico

Day 5

54km

Day 6

62km

Day 7

61km

We discover the varied and beautiful scenery of Tuscany with a rewarding ride between cultural highlights. From the renaissance capital Florence we ride through Chianti vineyards, olive groves and forests to the medieval hilltop town of Castellina in Chianti. We spend time in the ancient city of Siena before heading further south through classic, rolling Tuscan scenery to the charming hilltop villages of Pieve a Salti and Montepulciano.

DAY

Join trip at Pisa Airport. Drive to renaissance city Florence.

Cycle through Chianti Classico’s wooded hills with vineyards and picturesque villages.

Ride south through classic Tuscan landscapes to the grand city of Siena.

A free day to explore Siena, Florence or San Gimignano.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 24

Cycle over A loop ride Rewarding cycle Trip ends a rolling past Brunello route through at Pisa Airport. countryside vineyards and beautiful and lined with the impressive medieval Cypress trees Monte Oliveto hilltop towns to to our Maggiore Montepulciano. agriturismo Abbey. accommodation.

‘

Go online for departure dates

Getting to Pienza at the end, fantastic restaurants, lovely hotel in a great spot. A real sense of achievement.

Mike H

‘

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:27

EUROPE

FROM FROM

ITALY

£1178 £995

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

Cycle Italy Coast to Coast L E N GI

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CUT ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 8 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 20 gear Focus Culebro SL 3.0 road bikes with drop bars. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Adriatic Sea

Bologna

PESARO URBINO

Medieval walled town

Pisa

Furlo gorge

ITALY

GUBBIO

Roman Amphitheatre

APPENNINES

ORVIETO

Lake Bolsena

Assisi

DAILY DISTANCES

SPELLO

Montefalco vineyards

Day 2

Lake Corbara

PITIGLIANO

ORBETELLO

Etruscan ruins

Lagoon

68km

Day 3

70km

Day 4

63km

Day 5

Mediterranean Sea 0 km

Day 6

60 km

72km

Day 7

77km

Day 8

70km

On this road cycling trip we cross the breadth of Italy from the Adriatic to the Mediterranean. We take a beautifully scenic route passing through the regions of Le Marche, Umbria, Lazio and Tuscany. Along the way we pass medieval towns, lakes, mountains, vineyards, Etruscan and Roman ruins. Each evening you can relax and reflect on the day’s cycling over a glass of local wine and great Italian cuisine.

DAY

Join trip at Bologna Airport. Drive to Pesaro on the Adriatic coast.

Ride from the coastal plains up to the picturesque medieval walled town of Urbino.

Beautiful cycling across the Apennine mountains, through the Furlo Gorge and onto Gubbio.

A classic ride through great Umbrian countryside to the ancient walled town of Spello.

Rest day for relaxing and sightseeing in Spello and optional visit to St. Francis’s Assisi.

Rewarding scenery cycling to Orvieto past vineyards, Lake Corbara, sunflower and wheat fields.

Beautiful scenery and charming villages as we ride through Umbria, Lazio and into Tuscany.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 25

Cycle a scenic Trip ends route rich at Pisa Airport. with Etruscan history to finally reach the Mediterranean at Orbatello.

03/09/2015 13:27

EUROPE

Cycle Western Sicily

FROM

ITALY

EASY

£1098 £925

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CSI ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear Atala Discovery hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, ferry. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Discover the rugged beauty, history and culture of western Sicily.

TRAPANI

Erice Optional cable car

Favignana Island Mozia Island Phoenician remains

PALERMO Segesta

BRUCA

MARSALA

DAILY DISTANCES

SICILY

Wine tasting

0 km

30 km

Day 3

25km

Day 4

42km

Day 5

34km

Day 6

33km

Day 7

23km

We explore the western corner of beautiful Sicily on this cycle tour and discover a melange of cultures, stunning beaches, the ancient Greek temple of Segesta and the capital Palermo. We base our rides from Marsala, Bruca and Trapani with a day trip for tranquil cycling on Favignana island. Experience the relaxed and friendly island lifestyle and sample delicious Sicilian culinary specialties accompanied by great local wines.

DAY

Join trip in Palermo.

Guided tour of the Sicilian capital then we drive to the coast and Marsala.

Cycle to the busy port town of Trapani with its Spanish founded 12th century old quarter.

Explore the wonderful beaches of traffic-free Favignana island by bike.

Trip ends at Palermo Airport.

Cycle to Cycle inland Ride to the ancient to our discover the salt pans of family-run outstanding Mozia. Visit organic farm Greek the Phoenician or agriturismo temple and site. Marsala accommodation archaeological sweet wine in Bruca. site at Segesta. tasting.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 26

DAY

Peaceful coastal roads, charming villages and wonderful beaches.

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:27

EUROPE

Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice ITALY

EASY

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CDV ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

£1178 £995

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Maxx Crossmaxx hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, ferry, train. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Easy cycling through the South Tyrol past pristine lakes to Venice. Malles

MERANO BOLZANO

Lasa

Caldaro Ora

TRENTO

RIVA DEL GARDA

ITALY

Lake Garda

DAILY DISTANCES

MESTRE

Bardolino Venice Guided tour

VERONA 0 km

50 km

Day 2

58km

Day 3

35km

Day 4

72km

Day 5

42km

Day 6

29km

On this cycle journey we ride down the magnificent glacial valleys of the South Tyrol, past the jagged backdrop of the Dolomites to the beautiful setting of Lake Garda. After a catamaran ride across Lake Garda we swap natural highlights for the grand architecture and cultural heritage of Verona and Venice, where we end our journey. Along the way we ride on traffic-free cycle paths, sample the local wine and stay in charming and elegant alpine towns.

DAY

Join trip at Venice Airport. Drive to the elegant Alpine town of Merano.

Descend the stunning Venosta Valley by bike amid mountain scenery from Malles to Merano.

Cycle on the Adige bike path through a broad glacial valley to Tyrolean capital Bolzano.

Bike down the ‘wine route’ to Trento, past the crystal clear waters of Lake Caldaro.

Be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Garda on our descent by bike to Riva del Garda.

A scenic catamaran ride across Lake Garda. Ride the cycle path to beautiful Verona.

Explore the marvellous city of Venice.

Trip ends in Mestre.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 27

DAY

‘

Overall a good trip with beautiful scenery. Linda I

‘ 27

03/09/2015 13:27

EUROPE

Puglia on Two Wheels EASY

£998 £825

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CIP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

ITALY

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear Lombardo Taranto 400 hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Cycling through the unspoilt villages and rural landscapes of Italy’s deep south.

ADRIATIC SEA

Bari Airport 13th century castle

MONOPOLI ALTAMURA

Local bakery visit Alta Murgia National Park

San Giuliano Lake

0 km

ALBEROBELLO

DAILY DISTANCES

Egnazia Bronze-age site

Day 2

ITALY

Trulli town, Cisternino Caseificio cheese tasting Locorotondo Troglodyte Vineyard visit Town

MATERA

40 km

52km

Day 3

30km

Day 4

34/71km

Day 5

44km

Day 6

35km

Day 7

45km

Optional Rides

Cycling along quiet provincial roads we discover the ‘heel’ of Italy in the sun-drenched region of Puglia. On easy rides we enjoy wide panoramas and big skies as we traverse a gently rolling land with endless fields of grain, gnarled olive trees and ancient vines. We explore Alta Murgia National Park, the famous ancient ‘sassi’ troglodyte town of Matera, whitewashed villages and the rugged Adriatic coastline. Along the way we introduce the superb Pugliese cuisine with cheeses from a local ‘caseificio’, a visit to a family-run bakery and wine tasting.

DAY

Join trip at Bari Airport. Drive to the quaint small town of Altamura.

Cycle through Alta Murgia National Park from UNESCO Monte castle.

Ride across wide open vistas under blue skies to the unique troglodyte settlement of Matera.

Cycle past olive groves to the distinctive dry stone conical ‘trulli’ buildings of Alberobello.

A circular ride that explores beautiful villages. Enjoy a local white wine tasting.

Cycle past ochre fields and the Adriatic coast to Monopoli. Sample local cheeses.

A coastal ride past inviting clear waters to the bronze age site of Egnazia. Evening winetasting.

Trip ends at Bari Airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 28

DAY

‘

The penultimate ride into Monopoli was so picturesque I felt like we were on a movie set being filmed. Lesley D

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

‘

03/09/2015 13:27

Insider View “This a great trip in a tucked away part of Italy that I would thoroughly recommend to anyone - even if you only cycle occasionally. Cycling along the peaceful country lanes looking at the trulli buildings was most enjoyable, especially as you could cycle at your own pace by following the detailed route notes; there was no need to stick together with the rest of the group the whole time. Matera – an ancient town which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – was a surprise highlight. The Italian food and drink were excellent of course. The red wine was all low price, lovely to drink and didn’t create any hangovers - what more could you ask for?! My first ever cycling holiday and I am converted - will definitely be doing another!” Louisa Richardson, Explore Direct Marketing Manager

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 29

03/09/2015 13:27

EUROPE

Cycle Emilia Romagna M

FROM

ITALY

£972 £799

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

E E R AT

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CER ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Focus Black Hills mountain bikes with hybrid tyres and lockable front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, ferry. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

VENETO Rive

r Po

EMILIA ROMAGNA

PARMA

Parma ham, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese

FERRARA City of the Renaissence

MODENA

Balsamic vinegar tasting

COMACCHIO Little Venice wetlands

REGGIO EMILIA

Lambrusco wine tasting

RAVENNA BOLOGNA

Piazza Maggiore

TUSCANY

0 km

DAILY DISTANCES

ITALY

Day 2

58km

Day 3

52km

Day 4

60km

Day 5

22 km

Day 6

54km

Day 7

65km

Join us on this cycle journey through Emilia Romagna, a region considered the gastronomic capital of Italy. We explore the waterways and wetlands of the Po Delta and stay in the beautiful, historic towns of Ravenna, Comacchio and Ferrara. After a rest day in the great city of Bologna we continue up valley to the hill town of Parma. Along the way we will have the chance to learn about and taste famous local specialties such as red Lambrusco, Balsamic vinegar of Modena, Parmesan cheese and Parma ham.

DAY

Join trip at Bologna Airport. Drive to historic Ravenna.

Ride cycle paths through wetlands rich with birdlife to ‘Little Venice’ lagoon town Comacchio.

Cycle past the Po Delta waterways to Ferrara - an important city of the Renaissance.

Our ride follows an ancient silk trade route past fields of wheat, rice paddies and vineyards.

A rest day to explore the regional capital and beautiful art city of Bologna.

On our ride to Modena we sample local specialties: Balsamic vinegar and frizzante red Lambrusco.

A scenic ride to Parma to sample the superb local Parmesan cheese.

Drive to Bologna Airport where the trip ends.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN AUG SEP

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 30

DAY

Historic towns and great local food in off-beat Italy.

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:28

EUROPE

Cycle Russia - Moscow to St. Petersburg

FROM

RUSSIA

EASY

£1236 £990

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CRU ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 8 breakfasts, 3 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle guide, driver(s). BIKE: 8 gear Kalkhoff Voyager hybrid bike with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

A cycle journey between the great cities. Hermitage Museum, Cathedral and art treasures

ST PETERSBURG Lake Ilmen St George Monastery Novgorod Kremlin

RUSSIA

VELIKY NOVGOROD VALDAY

Valdaysky National Park Iversky Monastery

SELIGER LAKE

Historical villages

DAILY DISTANCES

Nilov Monastery

BELARUS

MOSCOW

0 km

Kremlin Lenin’s Tomb Red Square

120 km

Day 3

30km

Day 4

32km

Day 5

37km

Day 6

38km

Day 7

32km

Completing a journey by bicycle and bus we travel from Moscow to St. Petersburg to gain a glimpse of real Russia between the great cities. From the iconic buildings of Moscow’s Red Square we travel through a rural landscape dotted with onion-domed Orthodox churches, enormous lakes, forests and vast horizons. Finally we discover the contrasting and flamboyant architecture of St. Petersburg.

DAY

Join trip in Moscow.

Ride the iconic Moscow metro to visit Red Square, the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral.

Drive to Lake Seliger. Cycle through to the neoclassical ensemble of Nilov Monastery.

Bus to Torzhok district where we ride between 1820th century villages. Drive to Lake Valdaysky.

Cycle in Valdaysky National Park to the historically important Valday Iversky Monastery.

Drive to Lake Ilmen. Cycle to the impressive fortress of Novgorod Kremlin.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL JUN JUL AUG SEP

Bus to St. Explore one Petersburg. of the world’s Cycle including most beautiful visit to see cities, including beautiful a visit to the gardens of must-see Peterhof Grand Hermitage. Palace.

9 Trip ends in St. Petersburg.

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 31

DAY

03/09/2015 13:28

EUROPE

Cycle Finland: Turku Archipelago

FROM

FINLAND

EASY

£1093 £849

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CFT ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 7 gear Kalkhoff Jubilee hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

‘

Pedalling through the archipelago, the views change often from bare rocky islets to green countryside with its wooden houses. Marius M

Taivassalo Kustavi Laupunen Hakkenpää

Naantali Teersalo

TURKU

FINLAND Nagu

DAILY DISTANCES

HELSINKI City tour by bike

Korpostrom Tammisaari town 0 km

Hanko

35 km

Day 2

15km

Day 3

45km

Day 4

39km

Day 5

29km

Day 6

45km

Discover Finland by bike as we explore the unspoilt nature and beauty of the Turku Archipelago. Our trip starts in the attractive and bikefriendly city of Helsinki with a cycle tour that includes some modern architectural wonders. We then drive to the southwest coast where we base ourselves in Turku, the oldest city in Finland. We spend three days exploring the Archipelago by bike - a natural phenomenon with 20,000 Baltic islands. Hopping between islands by ferry and over bridges we cycle on quiet roads to enjoy the natural beauty of Turku and its remote fishing communities. DAY

DAY

Join trip in Helsinki.

Explore the Finnish capital on their impressive bike path network.

Drive to Turku then cycle the beautiful islands of Storlansder, Kyrklander and Lillandet.

Turku city tour. Explore by bike the Taivassalo peninsula and Kivimaa Island.

Cycle more of the 20,000 island archipelago including Livonsaari and Otava islands.

Coastal cycling from Tammisaari town to Hanko, the southernmost point of Finland.

Trip ends in Helsinki.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 32

JUL AUG SEP

DAY

Archipelago island hopping, attractive towns and unspoilt nature.

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:28

EUROPE

Prague to Meissen by Bike

FROM

CZECH REPUBLIC - GERMANY

£858 £695

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CCZ ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear Unibike Voyager hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

MEISSEN Dresden Pillnitz Castle

PIRNA

BIR

E ZG

RY HOValtirov

É ŠN

Bad Schandau

Konigstien Fortress

Elbe

GERMANY

Usti nad Labem

Schmilka Spa town

DECIN

Velke Brezno Strekov Ruined fortress

LITOMERICE Terezin Fortress town

Roundnice

MELNIK

Palace Vineyards

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

Vit

CZECH REPUBLIC

0 km

PRAGUE

City walking tour Wenceslas Square

28 km

50km

Day 3

41km

Day 4

48km

Day 5

44km

Day 6

46km

Explore this ancient landscape as we cycle through the basalt hills of the Czech Republic to the sandstone canyons of ‘Saxon Switzerland’. The Vltava and Elbe Rivers meander throughout this delightful region and link some of central Europe’s finest historic towns and cities. Along the way we visit the fortress town of Terezin and explore the beautiful Czech capital of Prague.

DAY

Join trip in Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Cycle to Melnik via the ‘Garden of Bohemia’.

Pedal to Litomerice stopping to visit the vast Terezin fortress.

Ride through wooded valleys, rolling hills and along the river via Strekov Castle to Decin.

Cross into Germany, visit the impressive Konigstein fortress and continue on to Pirna.

Cycle via Dresden to Meissen.

Drive to Prague. Afternoon walking tour.

Trip ends in Prague.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN AUG SEP

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 33

DAY

‘

Loved the baroque and gothic architecture of all the towns. Brian H

03/09/2015 13:28

EUROPE

Cycling the Baltic States

FROM

LITHUANIA - LATVIA - ESTONIA

£955 £790

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CBS ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 8 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 7 gear Kalkhoff Jubilee hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Gulf of Finland

TALLINN

LAHEMAA

Medieval walled city

BALTIC SEA

National Park

A Baltic cycling adventure exploring the cities and countryside.

ESTONIA

Gulf of Riga

LATVIA Jurmala

RIGA

Art nouveau architecture

DAILY DISTANCES

RUSSIA

Palanga

KLAIPEDA

LITHUANIA

Nida Kintai UNESCO old town

VILNIUS

KALININGRAD 0 km

175 km

BELARUS

TRAKAI

Island Castle

Day 2

18km

Day 3

39km

Day 4

36/58km

Day 5

42km

Day 6

28km

Day 7

41km

Day 8

37km

Optional Rides

Explore the Baltic States by bicycle on this guided route through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Cycle through national parks and medieval towns, past feudal castles and picturesque fishing villages. The mild climate makes touring by bicycle an especially appealing way to discover the lovely countryside and coastal cycle routes of the Baltics.

DAY

Join trip in Vilnius, capital of Lithuania.

Cycle around the lake to explore Trakai Historic National Park and castles.

Cycle through fishing villages to the Curonian Lagoon and on to the Baltic port of Klaipeda.

Explore the peaceful and beautiful Curonian Spit National Park on cycle paths and forest trails.

Cycle through the Giruliai forest to Palanga Botanical Park and the Amber Museum.

Cycle on Jurmala’s white sand beach and explore Riga, capital of Latvia.

Discover the beauty and interest of Lahemaa National Park by bike.

Cycle through the Baltics exploring Tallin, the picturesque capital of Estonia.

Trip ends in Tallinn.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN AUG SEP

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 34

DAY

Go online for departure dates

‘

This is a fabulous trip with so many unexpected delights. Pamela M

‘

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:28

Insider View â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the space of nine days you gain a nice contrast of distinguished cities and the great outdoors. The three capital cities have very wellpreserved old quarters, each with a distinct character, history and architecture. Away from the cities and towns a large proportion of the land in the Baltics is covered by vast forests and thousands of lakes, rivers, streams and bogs; all lined by a wild coastline with little development. It was great to get on the bike each morning and get some exercise amid the peace and quiet. The landscape is generally flat which makes it an ideal place for an easy-graded cycle trip.â&#x20AC;? James Adkin, Explore Cycling Programme Manager

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 35

03/09/2015 13:28

EUROPE

Pedalling in Poland

FROM

POLAND - SLOVAKIA

£868 £645

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CPP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel, 1 night simple hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Driver. BIKE: 21 gear Unibike Voyager hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Cycle through the unspoilt rural villages and rural landscapes of southern Poland and Slovakia.

naje

B MO ESKID ‘Green UNTA INS Dunajec

Lopuszna

Bialka Gorge

RYTRO

Niedzica Gorge’ Reservoir SZCZAWNICA Dunajec Spa town NIEDZICA Gorge 14th Century Castle ‘Pieniny Way’ Kacwin Cerveny Klastor Museum

Old feudal village

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

Bialk

Funicular to Gubalowka 1120m

White Dunajec

PUSCIZNA MOOR

9 km

Zabrzez

Debno Church

Chocholow Wooden Village

0 km

POLAND

NOWY TARG

Stary Sacz ra Pop

jec

na Black Du

Nowy Sacz

To KRAKOW & city cycle tour

From Krakow Airport

SLOVAKIA

ZAKOPANE

48km

Day 3

47km

Day 4

40km

Day 5

55km

Day 6

20km

Day 7

20km

Poland is an idyllic location for a cycle holiday and we meander through its unspoilt landscapes, medieval towns and traditional timberframed villages. Surrounded by the Beskid Mountains, we cycle on cliff-cut paths along the picturesque Dunajec Gorge and into Slovakia. We will sample some delicious local cuisine and experience a warm welcome from the locals.

DAY

Join trip in Krakow. Drive to the wood-built mountain town of Zakopane.

Cable car and cycle via Chocholow to historic Lopuszna.

Countryside cycling to Niedzica to explore the castle.

Cycle the Dunajec Gorge to the spa town of Szczawnica.

Pedal though old villages and past fruit orchards to Rytro.

Explore historic Stary Sacz by bike before driving to Krakow.

Cycling tour of Krakow Old Town and local area.

Trip ends in Krakow.

‘

The scenery, history and food of Poland made it a really good setting for an active holiday. Sally T

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 36

Go online for departure dates

‘

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:28

EUROPE

Bavaria by Bike M

FROM

GERMANY

£994 £825

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CBA ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear Unibike Voyager hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

BAMBERG

NUREMBERG RhineDanube Canal

REGENSBURG

BERCHING KELHEIM

Danu

GERMANY Munich Airport

DAILY DISTANCES

MUNICH

0 km

35 km

BAD Lake TÖLZTegernsee

Day 2

35km

Day 3

55km

Day 4

70km

Day 5

75km

Day 6

35km

Day 7

53km

Explore the best of Bavaria on two wheels as we follow quiet roads and a network of river cycle paths through beautiful landscapes to historic towns. Explore the heart of Bavaria with rides through Franconia to Nuremberg and Bamberg. Later we relocate to the inspiring Alpine setting of upper Bavaria before finishing in Munich. You may like to sample Bavaria’s wide variety of world-class beers along the way!

DAY

Join trip at Munich airport. Drive to beautifullypreserved medieval Regensburg.

Cycle along the Danube River cycle path to Kelheim. Boat tour to Weltenburg Monastery.

Cycle through the limestone gorges of the Altmuehl Valley to the historic town of Berching.

Ride along the Ludwig Canal on our way to Nuremberg, in the heart of Bavaria.

Pedal along the Pegnitz River to Bamberg, one of the beer capitals of the world.

Drive into Southern Bavaria. Visit Tegernsee Monastery and cycle to Bad Tolz.

Our final ride follows the Isar River into Munich for sightseeing and free time.

Trip ends in Munich.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 37

DAY

‘

I enjoyed the additional activities (boat, beer and wine-tasting) as well as the cycling. Catherine F

‘

03/09/2015 13:28

EUROPE

Along the Blue Danube £1176 £949

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CBD ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

AUSTRIA - GERMANY

E PA G E

ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 8 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear Unibike Voyager hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

‘

We thoroughly enjoyed this trip. It was a relaxed cycle along the Danube with stops at many lovely Austrian villages. Linda N

AUSTRIA

PASSAU Train/bus from Vienna

Medieval city

STOCKERAU

KREMS

Engelhartszell ‘Schlögener Schlinge The Great Loop’

Danube ‘Wachau’ ‘Strudengau’ Maria Taferl Wilhering MELK Burg Clam Danu Castle Benedictine be Ybbs Monastery LINZ Optional GREIN Historic cycling Greinburg town centre Castle

SCHLÖGEN

Aschach

0 km

DAILY DISTANCES

CZECH REPUBLIC

GERMANY

Greifenstein Castle

VIENNA City of culture

35 km

Day 2

44km

Day 3

53km

Day 4

65km

Day 5

46km

Day 6

20km

Day 7

40km

Day 8

60km

Day 9

25km

Optional Rides

Imposing castles, glorious abbeys and pretty farms line the banks of the River Danube. We cycle along the most famous section of the river between Passau in Germany and Vienna in Austria, through densely-wooded valleys and green fertile countryside. Highlights along the route include Wilhering, the medieval city of Krems and the wine-growing region of Wachau.

DAY

Join trip in Vienna and travel to Passau.

Cycle from Passau through small villages to Schlogen.

Cycle the ‘Great Loop’ from Schlögen to Linz.

Pedal through the fertile countryside to medieval Grein.

Cycle along the Danube from Grein to Melk.

Ride along the terraced vineyards to Krems.

Cycle the Krems and Danube tow paths to Stockerau.

Arrive in Vienna by bike for an orientation tour.

Trip ends in Vienna.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUL SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 38

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:29

EUROPE

FROM

BELGIUM

£997 £810

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

AT E

Cycle Flanders: Bruges to Brussels M O D ER

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CBF ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide. BIKE: 21 gear Venturelli hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

NETHERLANDS

OSTEND

Walking tour

BRUGES

Chocolate workshop, Brewery visit Culinary bike tour

Nieuwpoort

BELGIUM

Passchendale Tyne Cot Cemetary

YPRES

OUDENAARDE

Kortrijk

Brussels

Walking tour St Sixtus Abbey Trappist beer tasting

DAILY DISTANCES

FRANCE

0 km

33 km

Day 2

30km

Day 3

60km

Day 4

65km

Day 5

50km

Day 6

70km

Flanders is a perfect location for a cycle holiday; generally flat, compact and packed full of highlights. From beautiful Bruges we make our way by bike along canals, past polders, wetlands and coastal scenes to Ostend. From the Great War sites of Ypres the landscape gradually changes as we ride through the Flemish Ardens to Oudenaarde. Along the way we will visit important WWI battlefields, enjoy a chocolate workshop, beer tastings and a culinary discovery tour.

DAY

Join trip in Brussels. Drive to Bruges and explore on foot.

Chocolate workshop, canal cruise, beer tasting and gastronomic bike ride in Bruges.

Coastal ride rich with birdlife to the sea port of Ostend.

Pedal through fishing villages to the medieval city of Ypres.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUL AUG SEP

Cycle through Ride the forested towpath of the landscapes to failed YpresPasschendaele Leie canal then WWI cemetery River Leie to and memorial Oudenaarde. museum.

DAY

7 Drive to Brussels airport where the trip ends.

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 39

Discover Flanders by bike with visits to Great War battle sites, a chocolate workshop and beer tastings.

03/09/2015 13:29

FROM

ALBANIA

£997 £650

M O DER

Cycle Albania

GIN G

EUROPE

/C H AL

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CAB ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 24 gear Specialized CrossTrail or Ariel hybrid bikes with lockable front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16. BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

Nderlysa Lake Scutari

MACEDONIA

Durres

Tirana Airport

Lake Ohrid

ALBANIA

ADRIATIC SEA

POGRADEC Onufi Icons Museum

BERAT

Vjo

‘Baba Tomor’ 2416m

së

Llogora Pass

Kelcyra Gorge

KORCA

Remote Germenj Park Vjosa gorge

GERMENJ

DAILY DISTANCES

Drino

Himara Llogora NP St Theodor’s QEPARO Permet Monastery GJIROKASTËR Ala Pasha Piqeras Muzina fortress Lukova Pass Blue Eye Spring

SARANDA 0 km

Butrint NP Lagoon

45 km

Day 2

GREECE

55km

Day 3

72km

Day 4

53km

Day 5

64km

Day 6

40km

Day 7

32km

Discover the highlights of this fascinating, little visited destination from the saddle. Cycle along the shores of Lake Ohrid into the heart of the Grammoz Mountains and the tranquil Germenj Valley. Descending through the spectacular Vjosa Gorge we reach the Ionian Sea and start our exploration of the turquoise Albanian Riviera. Along the way we visit the UNESCO listed sites of Gjirokaster, Butrint and Berat and explore Albania’s rich cultural heritage through its archaeological ruins and local traditions.

DAY

Join trip at Tirana airport and drive to Lake Ohrid.

Lake Ohrid to Korca, cycle up to the elevated plateau with fine views over the lake.

Climb into the heart of the Gammoz Mountians to Germenj.

Pedal amid dramatic mountain scenery in the Drino Valley and Kelcyra Gorge onto Gjirokaster.

Ride coastal towns and forests then drive through stunning Llogora National Park to Berat.

Trip ends at Tirana airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 40

Cycle to Coastal Saranda on the cycling along Ionian coast the Albanian via Butrint Riviera to the archaeological fine beaches of treasure. Qeparo.

DAY

‘

Go online for departure dates

Albania is ideal for cycling. Very little traffic, just the right amount of challenge from the mountainous terrain. Neil C

‘

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:29

EUROPE

Cycle the Dalmatian Coast M

FROM

CROATIA

£995 £695

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CCD ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 Polar Mirage or Blizzard hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Cycle Croatia’s stunning coastline between Split and Dubrovnik

Sightseeing

SPLIT

CROATIA

STARI GRAD

DAILY DISTANCES

BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA

HVAR

Day 2

KORCULA KORCULA

0 km

DUBROVNIK

48 km

Cavtat

25km

Day 3

40km

Day 4

20km

Day 5

70km

Day 6

30km

Day 7

35km

The south Dalmatia stretch from Split to Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe dotted with medieval towns, fishing villages and a myriad of islands. Local ferries take us to the islands of Hvar and Korcula which we explore by bike on quiet roads, riding past vineyards, olive groves, dramatic limestone cliffs, forested hills and hidden coves. We end our route on a high in historic Dubrovnik.

DAY

Join trip in Split, one of the region’s oldest cities.

Morning sightseeing in Split. Ferry to Hvar Island and explore by bike.

Full day’s cycling on Korcula experiencing the rural elegance of the island.

Morning ferry to Orebic. Cycle to Zuljana, then drive to Dubrovnik.

Cycle through the villages of the Dalmatian Coast.

Trip ends in Dubrovnik.

Explore the Ferry to Korula. old streets and Cycling abandoned around the villages by red terracotta bike on the roofed villages beautiful island and marbled of Hvar. streets.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP

‘

The day cycling on Korcula is incredible. I loved climbing to the top of the hill to look over the Adriatic Sea. Jonny May, Explore Product Manager

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 41

DAY

‘

03/09/2015 13:29

EUROPE

Museum of Anatolian Civilisations

Cappadocia Freewheel

FROM

TURKEY

£969 £599

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CCF ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

ANKARA ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights standard hotel, 2 nights simple hotel, 1 night simple guesthouse. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, support driver(s). BIKE: 21 gear Mosso Wildfire Tourney mountain bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Surreal landscapes of Turkey’s Cappadocia.

Kizil Irmak

Avanos Cavusin

Akvadi ‘White Valley’

Sarihan Caravanserai Zelve

GOREME

CAPPADOCIA

Uchisar Optional balloon ride

Kavak

DAILY DISTANCES

MUSTAFA -PASA

Ibrahimpasa

TURKEY

KAYSERI

Urgup

Mazikoy

Mamasun Dam

Kaymakli Underground city

SELIME Belisirma Ihlara 0 km

Ihlara Valley Rock-cut Churches Melendiz

16 km

Day 2

33km

Day 3

28km

Day 4

26/28km

Day 5

24/30km

Day 6

26/32km

Day 7

19km

Optional Rides

Cycling along quiet backroads and farm tracks we discover the beautiful region of Cappadocia in central Turkey where soft lava and ash rock has eroded to form a landscape unlike any other on earth. We cycle among the ‘fairy chimneys’, the contoured cliffs and rock-cut churches of the Ihlara Valley, and discover the underground city of Kaymakli.

DAY

Join trip at Kayseri airport. Drive to Selime in the heart of the Ilhara Valley.

Drive to Cappadocia area. Cycle Dogantarla Village to Selime.

Drive to Kaymakli underground city before cycling to Mustafapasa.

Beautiful and unique scenery on our cycle via Kizilcukur Valley to Goreme.

Day ride through the ‘fairy chimney’ landscape back to Goreme.

Cycle the Valley of the Hermits, Avanos and troglodyte village.

Cycle through apricot orchards and vineyards of the Rose Red Valley to Urgup.

Trip ends in Goreme.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY SEP OCT

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 42

DAY

‘

Go online for departure dates

The scenery was unique and spectacular... The local people were warm and welcoming. Susan F

‘

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 13:29

FROM

TURKEY

£973 £599

M O DER

Turkish Backroads and Coastal Towns

GIN G

EUROPE

/C H AL

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CTK ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights standard hotel, 1 night simple village house, 1 night simple hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 24 gear Seddona mountain bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16. Lake Koycegiz Sultaniye

Optional tour Caunus, Iztuzu beach

Karaagac

DALYAN

Kayadibi

TURKEY

Gocek Dalaman

FETHIYE Tlos

Arsakoy

Minare

SAKLIKENT

SUTLEGEN

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

DAILY DISTANCES

Islamlar Xanthos

PATARA 0 km

Optional beach and ruins

15 km

Kalkan

KAS

Day 2

65km

Day 3

58km

Day 4

45km

Day 5

36km

Day 6

60km

Day 7

42km

Cycle with us on a route that abounds with natural beauty, history and cultural interest on Turkey’s beautiful Turquoise Coast. We pedal along wonderfully quiet back roads through a rugged interior of forests, hillside villages and farmland before relaxing on the golden sands of Patara Beach. We also enjoy a private boat trip across Fethiye Bay, visit ancient sites and savour the fresh local food. The trip is fully supported; you can do as much or as little riding as you like, jumping on and off the support vehicle as much as you prefer.

DAY

Join trip in Dalyan.

Cycle past fertile farmlands and Liquidambar forests then picnic at Lake Koyceyiz.

Pedal to Gocek. Cross Fethiye Bay by private boat.

Cycle to Saklikent. Enjoy a traditional lunch in a village house in Karaagac.

Visit the ancient site of Tlos. Ride up through the hills to Sutlegen.

Cycle to Patara. Visit the ancient site of Xanthos en route.

Morning ride via Kalkan along the coast to Kas.

Trip ends at Dalaman airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY SEP OCT

‘

A fantastic trip with the perfect blend of cycling, swimming, good food and culture. Mike H

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

12-43 Cycling Europe_2016.indd 43

DAY

‘

03/09/2015 13:29

Middle East AND

Africa Our cycling trips in The Middle East and Africa span the extremes of these extraordinary regions. We offer fascinating cycle trips through the mountains and deserts of Morocco in the north, the enchanting holy land of Israel and beautifully scenic rides along South Africa’s Garden Route. In Morocco cycle with a backdrop of dramatic snow-capped peaks in the Atlas Mountains, past ancient fortified kasbahs and through valleys dotted with timeless Berber villages. Jordan is perfectly suited to exploring by bike and boasts major highlights such as the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum and the Red Sea.

Insider View “I spent a lot of time as a Tour Leader in the Middle East and love going back. The fragrant spice markets, sweet mint tea and the feel of hot sand under my feet were all unforgettable but by far my best memories are on a bike. Travelling on two wheels is a novelty in this part of the world but without doubt the best way to explore.” Alison Butler, Explore Cycling Product Manager

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 44

03/09/2015 14:57

Israel

Jordan

Morocco

South Africa

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 45

03/09/2015 14:58

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

Southern Oasis Cycling M

FROM

MOROCCO

£657 £499

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CSO ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel, 1 night simple camping. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, assistant cycle guide, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 21 gear Stockli XC mountain bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, minibus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

‘

Every day was a new adventure, therefore every day was a ‘highlight’. Jean K

MOROCCO

Demnate Tizi n’Outfi 2180m

MARRAKECH Jebel Toubkal 4167m

Tizi n’Tichka 2260m

Tinerhir

EL KELAA MGOUNA F

LLE

A 0K

S’

100

JEBEL SARHRO

Agdz

0 km

ERFOUD Oasis

Rissani

ERG CHEBBI SAND DUNES

ALNIF

Camel ride

DAILY DISTANCES

Tazzarine SAHARA

Tinififte Pass 1660m DRAA VALLEY

Optional visit Maadid

Rhettaras

e Dad

‘VA

OUARZAZATE

Walk in Todra Gorge

Ighil M’Goun 4071m

Toufrine

Tizi n’Fedrhate 2180m Assermo HIGH ATLAS Skoura Taourirt Kasbah

‘

Dra

ALGERIA

60 km

Day 3

45km

Day 4

50km

Day 5

35km

Day 6

40km

Day 7

50km

Surrounded by the Jebel Sahro mountain range, we cycle through kasbahs, tribal villages and cool oases in the Draa Valley. Trek by camel to a nomad desert camp in the Sahara. Explore one of the world’s most impressive canyons, Todra Gorge, and ride through remote Berber heartland in the High Atlas.

DAY

Join trip in Marrakech. Take in the sunset from the lively Djemma-el-Fna square.

Explore Marrakech. Drive over High Atlas pass to the garrison town of Ouarzazate.

Cycling in the picturesque Draa Valley, then drive to Alnif.

Cycle the foothills of Jebel Sahro. Camel trek to camp.

Enjoy the sunrise in the sand dunes then pedal to Erfoud.

Bike though local villages en route to El Kelaa Mgouna.

Ride down the Atlas Mountains and return to Marrakech.

Trip ends in Marrakech.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY SEP OCT NOV DEC

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 46

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 14:58

Insider View “This was the first cycling trip I had ever done with Explore - mostly I do trekking or multi-active trips. So I was slightly nervous as to what to expect. Well I needn’t have been the group, the Explore Leader, the itinerary, the bikes, the hotels, the food - everything was amazing!” Caryn Darley Waddilove, Explore Customer Service Executive

or visit www.explore.co.uk

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 47

03/09/2015 14:58

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

Cycle Jordan M

FROM

JORDAN

£1294 £875

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CJP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel, 1 night simple tented camp. MEALS: 8 breakfasts, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 24 gear Trek 3700 mountain bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

SYRIA

AMMAN MADABA Dead Sea

PETRA

hwa Hig

JORDAN

Kin gs

Showbak Crusader castle Little Petra

ISRAEL

ASH SHOWBAK

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

36km

Day 3

42km

Day 4 AQABA

WADI RUM

0 km

Desert Camp

63 km

Red Sea port

Day 5

20km

Day 6

58km

Day 7

35km

Join us on a cycle journey that uncovers the wild beauty and cultural heritage of Jordan. After the Crusader Castle of Shobak and a float in the Dead Sea, we follow the King’s Highway to the rock-hewn ‘lost’ city of Petra. We ride down to the southern desert and spend a memorable night under the stars in Wadi Rum at a Bedouin camp. Ending our journey on the Red Sea you can snorkel, swim or just relax.

DAY

Join trip in Madaba.

Visit Madaba and cycle to Mount Nebo and descend to the Dead Sea.

Cycle from Shobak Crusader Castle to Petra.

Explore Petra, the world-class UNESCO site.

Free time in Petra. Cycle to Little Petra and El Beidha.

Cycle to Wadi Rum and overnight under the stars in desert camp.

Cycle from Wadi Rum and continue on to Aqaba by bus.

Free day to relax by the Red Sea in Aqaba.

Trip ends at Amman airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

FEB MAR APR MAY OCT NOV DEC

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 48

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

‘

Jordan is a country whose beauty should be enjoyed slowly and there’s no better way than from the back of a bike.

‘

Rebecca Bartlett, Explore Adventure Travel Consultant

03/09/2015 14:58

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

Israel by Bike M

FROM

ISRAEL

£1865 £1445

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CIS ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights standard hotel, 3 nights standard guesthouse. MEALS: 8 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader, cycle guide. BIKE: 24 gear Marin San Rafael ds2 hybrid bike with front suspension or a 27 gear Specialized Sirrus hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Safed

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

TIBERIAS Mt Carmel Nazareth (Walking Tour) Caesarea

Kfar Tavor

ISRAEL

Mt Gilboa

Lake Tiberias (Sea of Galilee)

Gan HaShlosha National Park

PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES

DAILY DISTANCES

TEL AVIV Day 2

JERUSALEM

Visit the Holy sites and night ride

0 km

25 km

56km

Day 3

47km

Day 4

32km

Day 5

76km

Day 6

40km

Day 7

20km

Day 8

20km

Israel by bike invites you to take part in a cycle journey through history, landscapes and culture; from modern Tel Aviv to the ancient world of Jerusalem. Travel from Israel’s wine country, through the forested slopes of the Carmel Range and onto The Sea of Galilee and its Christian Holy sites. This trip will take you on a unique biking experience through Roman, Byzantine, Crusader and modern times.

DAY

Join trip in Tel Aviv, the city that never sleeps.

Cycle to Caesarea and explore King Herod’s port on foot.

Cycling in upper Galilee, markets and wine tasting.

Nazareth, Mount Tabor and an authentic Cirassian lunch.

Sea of Galilee loop. Kibbutz and Baptism site visit.

Cycle Mount Gilboa and swim in Gan Hashlosha National Park.

Jerusalem backstreet bike ride.

Explore Jerusalem by foot and night ride.

Trip ends at Tel Aviv airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR SEP OCT

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 49

DAY

03/09/2015 14:58

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

Cycle the Cape M

SOUTH AFRICA

FROM

£1994 £1090

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CTC ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights standard hotel, 3 nights standard guesthouse, 2 nights standard lodge. MEALS: 9 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 24 gear Schwinn Messa mountain bike with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

‘

DAILY DISTANCES

‘

Views across vineyards and coastal roads open all your senses to the inspiring sights and sounds of South Africa.

Shy Bankale, Explore Operations Manager

SOUTH AFRICA

Swartberg pass Cango Caves

Table Mountain

CAPE TOWN

Cape winelands

Calitzorp

STELLENBOSCH

Riversdale

KNYSNA

Malgas

ATLANTIC OCEAN 0 km

Optional Marloth NR

SWELLENDAM

Jonkershoek

Sea Island boat trip Cycle Cape of Good Hope

Hike in Tsitsikamma NP cycle Bloukrans & Nature’s Valley

De Poort Ostrich farm

Hermanus Whale watching (July-Nov)

Day 1

30km

Day 2

35km

Day 3

35km

Day 4

53km

Day 5

23/26km

Day 6

15km

Day 7

21km

Day 8

33km

Day 9

40km

Optional Rides

Plettenberg Bay

Bredasdorp

INDIAN OCEAN

Cape Agulhas Southernmost point in Africa

100 km

Cycle with Africa’s Western Cape Province. We pedal along the rugged coastline of Cape Point and through the forested C=us 10through M= 50South Y= 100 K=5 shorelines of the ‘Garden Route’. In Stellenbosch we ride through vineyards and enjoy a glass of the locally produced wine. Along the way we explore the dripstone caverns of Cango Caves and visit Boulders Beach - home to a colony of African Penguins.

DAY

Join trip in Cape Town. Introductory ride on the slopes of Table Mountian.

Drive to Cape Point Nature Reserve via Hout Bay. Cycle to Kommetjie, or Simon’s Town.

Drive to Stellenbosch. Cycle through wine farms to Jonkershoek Reserve.

Drive and cycle through Red Stone Hills to De Poort.

Cycle down the dramatic Swartberg Pass. Optional visit to Cango Caves.

Drive to Plettenberg Bay via George to Knysna. Cycle through the Knysna Harkerville Forest.

Drive to Tsitsikamma National Park. Cycle Bloukrans & Nature’s Valley Passes.

Drive to Witsand, cycle to Malgas Pont and drive to Swellendam.

Cycle to the southernmost point of Africa, Cape Agulhas. Return to Swellendam.

Drive via Hermanus to Cape Town where the trip ends.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

FEB MAR SEP OCT NOV

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 50

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 14:58

Insider View â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cycling the Cape is an incredible way of seeing one of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet. The weather is usually obliging, and South Africans are so hospitable and friendly. My favourite part of the trip was riding through the wineries of Stellenbosch, a spectacular area filled with rolling hills dotted with vines. The vineyards date back centuries and the wines taste fantastic and are amazing value, given the current exchange rates. To enjoy this trip one does not have to be supremely fit, although a degree of fitness is needed. One simply has to arrive with an open mind, and allow the surreal beauty of cycling, at peace, in a profoundly stunning part of our world.â&#x20AC;? Jonny May, Explore Product Manager

or visit www.explore.co.uk

44-51 Cycling ME and Africa_2016.indd 51

03/09/2015 14:58

Asia AND THE

Pacific Experience some of the world’s best cycling in Asia, a continent bursting with variety and contrast. With cycle trips for all levels of physical fitness from easy to tough, Asia is ideal for exploring on two wheels. You could discover the idyllic backroads of Sri Lanka and southern India, cycle past rice paddies in Vietnam and serene villages in Cambodia, or bike among ancient temples in Burma. Across Asia, so many people go about their everyday lives by bike; you’ll feel very much part of the local scene as you cycle with them through the villages and towns along the way. And best of all, as a fellow cyclist you’re likely to be welcomed with a warm smile wherever you go.

Insider View “This was my first cycling holiday and I am really hooked. It is a great way to see a country. We were so well looked after. It was very hot, and some of the cycling quite a challenge, but a great feeling of achievement when we made it. Vietnam is a fascinating place. The war still hangs over it but the people are welcoming and the food is lovely.” Jackie H travelled on Cycle Saigon to Hanoi (CVIE) in Vietnam

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 52

04/09/2015 10:49

Burma

Cambodia

India

Japan

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Vietnam

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 53

04/09/2015 10:49

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Backroads of Kerala INDIA

EASY

FROM

£1828 £1175

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CKB ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel, 4 nights simple homestay. MEALS: 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, assistant cycle guide, bike mechanic, boat crew, driver(s). BIKE: 21 or 24 gear Trek 4300 mountain bikes with lockable front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

18km

THEKKADY

Day 3

40km

Idukki Reservoir

Day 4

35km

PLANTERS HOMESTAY

Day 5

40km

Day 6

45km

Day 7

45km

KOCHI Sunset cruise

Tea & spice plantations

Alleppey

MANCOMBU Village houses

INDIA Cruise backwaters Canoe trip

10km

Day 9

26km

Day 10

CARDAMOM HILLS

KOLLAM

Day 8

Day 11

VARKALA

30/65km

Optional Rides

INDIAN OCEAN

Veli Trivandrum

KOVALAM 40 km

0 km

On this cycling trip in southern India we travel into Kerala’s rural backwaters. We ride inland through a landscape of spice, tea and rubber plantations. We also travel along the waterways in wooden canoes, walk through Periyar National Park in search of wildlife and relax on Indian Ocean beaches. Staying in family houses we also enjoy warm Keralan hospitality.

DAY

DAYS

12/13

Join trip in Kovalam.

Morning cycle ride. Afternoon free to relax on the Malabar coast.

Drive to Veli Lagoon; visit Anjengo Fort and cycle to Varkala.

Cycle through traditional Keralan villages to Kollam.

Boat trip along Backwaters. Cycle to Mancombu.

Full day cycling through Backwaters villages. Afternoon canoe trip.

Drive and cycle to Wagamon. Planter’s Homestay.

Free to explore Wagamon on foot. Optional cycle rides available.

Drive and cycle to Thekkady to visit plantations and a tea factory.

Forest walk in search of wildlife. Explore the spice gardens of Thekkady.

Drive to Kuuttikkanam, cycle to Malayattoor and drive to Kochi.

Tour of Kochi by cycle. Evening boat cruise. Trip ends in Kochi.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Go online for departure dates

JAN MAR OCT NOV DEC

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 54

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

04/09/2015 10:49

Insider View â&#x20AC;&#x153;What we saw and what we achieved gave us a unique experience of a lifetime! Kerala gives a unique taste of India, very beautiful and diverse with friendly people and fantastic food. Kertan and his crew were nothing less than fantastic. They kept us safe, motivated and entertained. They looked after the group as well as every individual need. Kertan was able to discuss any topic and was very well informed, enabling us to learn about all aspects of Indian cultural and society. Kishor, our mechanic, not only kept us on our bikes but looked after us at all times. And our very experienced driver, Shiva got us from place to place safely in the crazy traffic. We could not have asked for a better leader or team.â&#x20AC;? Toni L and John W

or visit www.explore.co.uk

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 55

04/09/2015 10:49

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Cycling Rajasthan M

INDIA

FROM

£1995 £1325

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CIR ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 13 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, assistant cycle guide, bike mechanic, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 21 or 27 gear Trek 4300, 3900, 3700 Mountain bikes or Merida M-20 and Matt-40 bikes with lockable front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, 4WD. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

DAILY DISTANCES GREAT INDIAN DESERT

DELHI

Cycle tour Yam

NEEMRANA

INDIA

Game drive

SARISKA NP

Tiger Reserve Rupangarth

JAIPUR

PUSHKAR

Gomti

Dausa

Game drives

BUNDI

Ranakpur

Chittorgarth

PA KI ST AN

ARAVALLI HILLS UDAIPUR

Arabian Sea

85km

Day 6

40km

Day 7

65km

Day 8

20km

Day 9

80km

Day 10

72km

Day 11

CHINA

Day 12

33km

DELHI UDAIPUR

0 km

65km

Day 5

AGRA

Lalsot

RANTHAMBORE NP KUMBHALGARH

70km

Day 3 Day 4

una

RAJASTHAN

Day 2

FESTIVAL DEPARTURES

INDIA

Pushkar and Holi Festival

INDIAN OCEAN

Special Pushkar and Holi Festival departures are available for this trip. See dates and prices on our website.

160 km

Leaving the chaotic streets of the capital this trip takes us through the Pink City of Jaipur and on to the beautiful lakeside city of Udaipur. Along the way we take time to look for the elusive Bengal tiger in Sariska and Ranthambore National Parks. We cycle through remote villages to gain a glimpse of daily life in this traditional region, stopping along the way to see Rajasthan’s incredible Moghul architecture and dramatic forts.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

3/4

11/12

Join trip in Delhi.

Drive and cycle to Sariska National Park via Neemrana and Kesroli.

Game drive. Cycle the Aravali Hills. Visit Jaipur’s Amber Fort and City Palace.

Cycle to the ancient city of Pushkar via Rupangarh.

Explore Pushkar. Drive and cycle to Kumbhalgarh via Ajmer.

Visit to Udaipur via the Jain temples at Ranakpur.

Explore Udaipur’s temples, palaces and gardens by bike.

Morning ride from Chittorgarh towards Bundi.

Cycle quiet cross-country tracks to Rathambore National Park.

Game drives in Rathambore National Park. Drive and cycle to Agra.

Watch the sun rise over the Taj Mahal and visit Agra Fort. Return to Delhi.

Trip ends in Delhi.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Go online for departure dates

FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 56

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Cycle Sri Lanka M

FROM

SRI LANKA

£2072 £1399

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CSL ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights standard hotel, 1 night premium camping. MEALS: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 24 gear Conor Avenue hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

DAILY DISTANCES Day 1

POLONNARUWA

Ancient city

Bay of Bengal

SIGIRIYA Lion Platform Sky Fortress

Dambulla caves

KANDY

Temple of the Tooth Walapane (tea plantation)

NEGOMBO Fishing Port

Colombo

NUWARA ELIYA

Airport

SRI LANKA

UDAWALAWE National Park

UNAWATUNA

Beaches

59km

Day 4

30km

Day 5

68km

Day 7

18km

Day 8

60km

Day 9

38km

Day 10

46km

Day 11

65km

Day 12

30km

YALA

Galle

0 km

41km

Day 3

Day 6

Pallegmo Kuliyapitiya

10km

Day 2

National Park Game drives

Old Dutch port

90 km

INDIAN OCEAN

Completing a circular journey this trip takes in ancient temples and fortresses, cycling through tea plantations and across the scenic trails of the Knuckles Range. Leaving the coast behind we explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa on two wheels before steadily climbing to the wide plains of the Knuckles. There is also the option to search for leopard in Yala National Park before making our way to the beach for a well-earned rest.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

5/6

12/13

Join trip in Negombo. Cycle the beaches and villages that line the coast around Waikkal.

Visit Dambulla cave temple and cycle to Sigiriya.

Climb Lion Rock, then cycle to Polonnaruwa.

Pedal to Polonnaruwa archeological site and village.

Cycle and drive to Kandy. Visit spice gardens en route and explore Kandy on foot.

Cycle along the plantation roads to Nuwara Eliya.

Ride to Bambarakanda waterfall.

Cycle to Udawalawe. Optional elephant safari.

Cycle country roads to Yala National Park. Optional safari.

Ride along the coast through Bundula National Park.

Cycle the coastal backroads and visit Galle. Day at leisure in Unawatuna.

Trip ends at Colombo airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Go online for departure dates

JAN MAR NOV

or visit www.explore.co.uk

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 57

DAY

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Cycle Japan M

FROM

JAPAN

E E R AT

14 £3820 DAYS 13 £3145 DAYS

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

TRIP ONLY

TRIP CODE: CJA ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel, 4 nights simple guesthouse, 1 night simple farmstay, 1 night standard guesthouse. MEALS: 12 breakfasts, 7 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, bike mechanic, driver(s). BIKE: 24 gear Specialized Sirrus hybrid bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, train. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16. SEA OF JAPAN

Morning market

SUZU NOROSHI

WAJIMA Ganmon National Park

NOTO USHITSU WAKURA ONSEN

HAKUI

Hot Springs

Coastal cycling

Takaoka

SHOKAWA ONSEN

KANAZAWA Kenrokuen Gardens

Hot Springs, mountain scenery

SHIRAKAWA-GO

UNESCO rural village, traditional farmhouse stay

JAPAN

Shinkansen Bullet train to

TOKYO (optional city tour)

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

Ancient city Bike tour

KYOTO

Kansai International Airport

0 km

55 km

2015

17km

Day 3

8km

Day 4

48km

Day 5

86km

Day 6

47km

Day 7

45km

Day 8

67km

Day 9

80km

Day 10

54km

From the ancient city of Kyoto we cycle on quiet roads on the Noto Peninsula and in highlands around the Shirakawa-go historic village, taking us firmly off the beaten track and enabling us a chance to glimpse old Japan. Along the way we will see one of the finest Japanese gardens in Kanazawa and varied scenery along stunning coastal paths and into the mountains. We end our journey arriving by bullet train in modern Tokyo.

DAY

DAYS

11/12

Join trip in historic Kyoto.

Kyoto sightseeing by bike along the Philosopher’s Path to the Nanzen-ji temple complex.

Morning train to Kanazawa. Bike tour of Kenrokuen Garden and the old teahouse district.

Cycling around the beautiful Noto Peninsula including the Chirihama Beach Road.

Cycle the coastal road to Wajima, stopping off at the Sojijiso-in temple.

Explore Wajima Market. Continue along the stunning coastal road to Suzu.

Cycle to Noto Ushitsu as we head down the eastern side of the peninsula.

Cycle to Wakura Onsen where ancient, healing hot baths await our arrival.

We begin our journey inland as we head up to Shokawa Onsen.

Visit stunning Shirakawa-go, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

Shinkansen bullet train to Tokyo. Explore the Japanese capital.

Trip ends in Tokyo.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY OCT

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 58

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Burma by Bike

FROM

BURMA (MYANMAR)

£2759 £1939

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CBR ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s), boat crew, local guide(s). BIKE: 24 gear Specialized or Trek mountain bikes with front suspension except in Bagan. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Mingun Sagaing

MONYWA

MANDALAY Amarapura

Chang U Inwa

BAGAN

SHAN PLATEAU

Optional Balloon

Magnificent Temple complex

Heho

KALAW

INLE LAKE

One-leg rowers, floating gardens

KAN

awaddy) addy (Irr

ARA

Ayeyarw

Popa

‘

RAN

BURMA

(MYANMAR) Salaween

Shwedagon Pagoda Colonial architecture

RANGOON (YANGON)

0 km

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

20km

The countryside, people and scenery were marvellous.

Day 3

25km

Day 4

45km

Day 5

35km

Day 6

35km

Peter L

Day 7

‘

100 km

Day 8

30km

Day 9

30km

Day 10

35km

Day 11

30km

On this trip we cycle along rural backroads between the principal attractions of Bagan, Mandalay and Inle Lake. Additionally we get closer to the locals in less visited but equally rewarding places such as Popa and Monywa. Burma is a tremendously friendly and welcoming country to visit and decades of political isolation mean that many of the traditional ways of life remain unchanged in modern times, from the lowland Buddhist beliefs to the highland animist hilltribes.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

2/3

5/6

10/11

Join trip in Rangoon. Visit the golden Shwedagon Pagoda for sunset.

Explore the remarkable temple city of Bagan by bike, bus and on foot.

Cycle through picturesque countryside to Mount Popa, home to revered animist spirit gods.

Cycle and bus a little-visited route through central Burma, learning more about local life.

Bus and cycle the beautiful Shan Highlands to Inle Lake via old British Hill Station of Kalaw.

Discover the stilt villages, unique leg-rowers and floating gardens of Inle Lake by longtail boat.

Fly back to Rangoon for last-minute handicrafts souvenir hunting.

Trip ends in Rangoon.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Explore Cycle around Ride to Mingun Mandalay on the ancient giant stupa. a city tour that Burmese royal Irrawaddy includes the capitals of Inwa cruise back to fascinating and Amarapura. Mandalay. fish and jade See U-Bein teak markets. bridge.

Go online for departure dates

JAN FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC

or visit www.explore.co.uk

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 59

DAY

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Cycle Burma M

FROM

BURMA (MYANMAR)

E E R AT

16 £2699 DAYS 14 £1869 DAYS

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

TRIP ONLY

TRIP CODE: CBUR ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s), boat crew, local guide(s). BIKE: 24 gear Specialized or Trek mountain bikes with front suspension except in Bagan. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Mingun Monywa

BAGAN

Nyaung Pin Win

MANDALAY

SHAN PLATEAU

Optional Balloon

Magnificent Temple complex

DAILY DISTANCES

Amarapura

PINDAYA Heho

KALAW

INLE LAKE

One-leg rowers, floating gardens

R KAN

awaddy) addy (Irr

ARA

Ayeyarw

Popa

Day 3

30km

Day 4

60km

Day 5

55km

Day 6

37km

Day 7

38km

Day 8

ANG

BURMA

(MYANMAR)

Day 9

40km

Day 10

57km

Salaween

E Day 11

17km

Day 12

54/110km

Optional Rides

Shwedagon Pagoda Colonial architecture

RANGOON (YANGON)

0 km

100 km

Burma (Myanmar) has only recently reopened its doors to visitors which makes it an exciting and rewarding place to visit. On this trip we get closer to the wonderfully friendly local people with bike rides between the major highlights. Cycle the ancient capital of Mandalay, templestudded plains of ancient Bagan, colonial hill station of Kalaw and stilt villages of Inle Lake. We also cruise the mighty Irrawaddy River and admire jewel-encrusted pagodas in Rangoon.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

2/3

4/5

Join trip in Rangoon. Dusk visit to the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda.

Explore Inle Lake by bike and longtail boat past floating gardens and stilt villages.

Bike across the Shan plateau with stops at the former British Hill Station of Kalaw and Pindaya.

Combining time in the saddle and on the bus we take the road to Mandalay.

Cycle to former capital Sagaing and the giant stupa of Mingun; Irrawaddy cruise back to Mandalay.

See monks collecting alms, the lively jade market and enjoy the sunset from Mandalay Hill.

Ride off the beaten track to discover real Burma on the way to the thriving river town of Monywa.

Unique closeup of rural life on backroads cycle to Pakokku. Irrawaddy cruise down to Bagan.

Explore the remarkable ancient temples of Bagan by bike and on foot.

Cycle past rural scenes to Mount Popa, home to the spirit gods. Return to Bagan by bike.

Fly back to Rangoon and visit the colonial quarter.

Trip ends in Rangoon.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Go online for departure dates

JAN FEB MAR NOV DEC

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 60

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Southern Thailand by Bike M

FROM

THAILAND

£1396 £790

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CTH ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 8 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 21 or 24 gear Trek 4300 mountain bikes with lockable front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, ferry, flight. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

THAILAND BANGKOK

Optional night city bike tour

CHA AM Optional Sea kayaking

PRANBURI Sam Roi Yod National Park

BURMA (MYANMAR)

PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN Ao Manao sweeping bay

BOLIVIA CHUMPON

‘

KOH SAMUI Khao Sok National Park

Optional cycling optional snorkelling

‘

I loved this trip. Good cycling, good hotels, good food.

Krabi Airport

Mike T

AO NANG

0 km

Optional cycling optional kayaking

80 km

Summer itinerary Winter itinerary 0 km

DAILY CHILE DISTANCES Day 1

10km

Day 2

50km

Day 3

57km

Day 4

52km

Day 5

60km

Day 6 Day 7

56km

Optional Rides

70 km

Set against a backdrop of impressive limestone scenery we make our way by bike and bus from the bustling capital of Bangkok through the villages, plantations, jungles and beaches of southern Thailand. Cycling through this varied landscape we visit holy caves and hilltop palaces, taking in village life, Buddhist temples and Thailand’s best seafood along the way. Explore the stunning beauty of Sam Roi Yod National Park before winding down on the beaches of the south.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

SUMMER ITINERARY

7/8

Join trip in Bangkok. Optional night ride past temples and street markets.

Cycle past a chequerboard of salt pans to the beaches of Chao Samran and Cha Am.

Bike on quiet roads through tropical plantations and villages to the pristine beaches of Pranburi.

On trips departing between June and October we change destinations from day 6 onwards and head instead to Koh Samui - located in the Gulf of Thailand where conditions are more favourable at that time of year.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Explore the Cycle through Drive to the Optional cycling remarkable rubber Andaman past jungle-clad limestone plantations Sea via the limestone scenery and and rural impressive mountain caves of scenes to the limestone scenery and coastal reserve beautiful setting scenery of Kha boat trip to Kho Sam Roi Yod of Chumpon Sok National Phi Phi island. National Park. beach. Park.

FEB MAR AUG OCT NOV

Please refer to our website and trip notes for more details.

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 61

Trip ends in Bangkok.

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Cambodia by Bike M

FROM

CAMBODIA

£1794 £995

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CCB ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, boat crew, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 18 gear Merida hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

DAILY DISTANCES Explore Angkor Temples Complex

Day 2

CAMBODIA

SIEM REAP

Provincial Museum

BATTAMBANG

Lake Tonle Sap

Pursat

Kompong Luong

KAMPONG CHHNANG Oudong

PHNOM-PENH Royal Palace Killing Fields Tuol Sleng Museum

Tonle Bati

KAMPOT

Chisor Mountain

KEP

Ream NP 0 km

70 km

47km

Day 4

36km

Day 5

32km

Day 6

36km

Day 7

58km

Day 8

Chambok Ecotourism

SIHANOUKVILLE

40km

Day 3

Day 9

70km

Day 10

38km

Day 11

25km

Day 12

70km

Optional Rides

VIETNAM

Rabbit Island Swimming, beaches, viewpoint, local seafood

Cambodia is a well-kept secret that offers the visitor much more than the world-renowned jungle temples of Angkor. Join us on this cycle holiday that follows the tropical coastline before heading inland through rural backroads and deep into the interior. Along the way we visit the vibrant capital Phnom Penh, national parks, brilliant beaches and the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake. We end our journey deep in the jungle of Angkor exploring temples of the once mighty Khmer empire.

DAY

DAYS

11/12

Join trip in Phnom Penh. Afternoon city tour.

Explore Phnom Penh and the Killing Fields. Cycle and drive to the coastal city of Kep.

Morning visit to Rabbit Island. Cycle to Kampot and the Tek Chhou Waterfall.

Cycle through Bokor National Park. Drive to Sihanoukville.

Free day in Sihanoukville; optional Ream National Park.

Bus to Phnom Pehn. Explore Kiriom National Park by bike en route.

Drive to Oudong, then cycle on to Kampong Chhang.

Countryside cycle. Explore the floating villages of Tonle Sap. Drive to Battambang.

Battambang and surrounding countryside and sites by bike.

Tonle Sap boat trip to Mechrey. Cycle to Siem Reap.

Explore the Angkor temples around Siem Reap.

Trip ends in Siem Reap.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Go online for departure dates

FEB MAR NOV DEC

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 62

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Cycle Vietnam

FROM

VIETNAM

EASY

£1947 £1245

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CVN ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights standard hotel, 1 night simple overnight train. MEALS: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, bike mechanic, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: Different mountain or hybrid bikes are used at each location. Please refer to the trip notes for more details. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, train. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

CHINA

Red river delta cycle

HALONG BAY HANOI

Cycle around Westlake Old Quarter

Cruise, caves & limestone cliffs

NINH BINH Rice Paddies cycle GULF OF TONKIN

Perfume River (optional) Royal tombs

HUE

Imperial Citadel cycle

Danang

Hai Van Pass Historic port

HOI AN LAOS

My Son (UNESCO site) ancient Cham capital

VIETNAM CAMBODIA

NHA TRANG Offshore islands boat trip

Cu Chi Tunnels Cycle ride

0 km

150 km

This was a fantastic trip and one I would recommend to anybody who is thinking about it. Mary

HO CHI MINH CITY Old Saigon

‘

DAILY DISTANCES

SOUTH CHINA SEA

Day 2

19km

Day 3

15km

Day 4 Day 5

‘

33km

Day 6

18km

Day 7

35km

Day 8

28km

Day 9

20km

Day 10

30km

Day 11 Day 12 Day 13

25km

On this trip we cycle along the rural back roads of Vietnam, where the local people share our love of travelling by bicycle. Along the way we explore the charming cities of Hanoi, Hue, Old Saigon and Hoi An and visit the beautiful Halong Bay. We also discover the tropical beaches of Nha Trang and the hidden jungle valley of My Son, the ancient capital of the Cham Empire.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

6/7

12/13

Join trip in Hanoi. Orientation tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Explore Hanoi city then cycle around West Lake.

Drive to Dong Ho. Cycle through the villages of the Red River Delta.

Ha Long Bay cruise then drive to Ninh Binh via Nhan Muc.

Explore rural scenes of Ninh Binh by bicycle. Overnight Reunification Express to Hué.

Explore Hue by bike. Optional halfday trip along the Perfume River.

Bus and bike to Hoi An, via Hai Van Pass, Danang and Thuan Phuoc Bridge.

Enjoy a river trip, cycling and free time to explore Hoi An.

Visit to My Son World Heritage Site, ruins of structures from ancient Champa Kingdom.

Fly to Nha Trang. Afternoon boat trip out to the islands.

Fly to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Cycle to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Trip ends in Saigon.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Go online for departure dates

FEB MAR NOV DEC

or visit www.explore.co.uk

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 63

DAY

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Cycle Saigon to Hanoi M

FROM

VIETNAM

£1990 £1290

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CVIE ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights standard hotel, 1 night standard junk, 1 night simple overnight train. MEALS: 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, bike mechanic, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 18 gear Merida hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat, train. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

CHINA

VIETNAM

HALONG BAY

HANOI

Cruise through clear waters, caves & Kayaking

GULF OF TONKIN

Perfume River Royal tombs

HUE

Hai Van Pass

Cycle the citadel + Tu Doc Mausoleum LAOS

HOI AN

AL NTR DS CE HLAN HIG Quy Nhon CAMBODIA Khanh Vinh Colonial Hill station

DALAT

Can Duoc

CAI BE

0 km

‘

A wonderful holiday cycling in Vietnam. Excellent tour guide and support team.

HO CHI MINH CITY Old Saigon Mekong Delta cruise Explore waterways

Mekong Delta

NHA TRANG Offshore islands day trip

Cu Chi Tunnels

DAILY DISTANCES

SOUTH CHINA SEA

‘

Tony

175 km

Day 2

45km

Day 3

60km

Day 4

40km

Day 5

80km

Day 6 Day 7

50km

Day 8

50km

Day 9 Day 10

78km

Day 11

40km

On this adventurous trip we bike along the rural backroads and into the highlands of Vietnam. Along the way we discover the cultural highlights of Saigon, Hoi An, Hue and Hanoi. There is also time to explore the Mekong Delta, the tropical beaches and islands of Nha Trang and the majestic beauty of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

4/5

10/11

Join trip in Saigon; afternoon orientation tour.

Cycle to Cu Chi Tunnels; late afternoon free in Saigon.

Drive to Mekong Delta then cycle backroads to Cai Be.

Explore Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Cycle over Hon Giao Pass, drive to Nha Trang.

Rest day from the bikes. To relax, take a boat trip to tropical islands.

Cycle and drive from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon.

Pedal over the Thi Nai sea bridge; drive to historic Hoi An.

Arrive in Hanoi. Drive to Halong Bay for overnight cruise.

Morning cruise of the bay and then drive to Hanoi for a tour of the city.

Trip ends in Hanoi.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Morning Cycle and walking tour drive to Hue of Hoi An’s via the Hai Van traditional pass. Cycle wooden houses around Hue and Chinese then overnight temples; free train to Hanoi. afternoon.

Go online for departure dates

JAN FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 64

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Bangkok to Saigon by Bike M

FROM

THAILAND - CAMBODIA - VIETNAM

£2198 £1369

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

E E R AT

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CTV ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights standard hotel, 2 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night simple homestay. MEALS: 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, local guide(s). BIKE: 18 gear Merida mountain bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

LAOS

DAILY DISTANCES

Khao Yai National Park

NAKORNNAYOK ARANYAPRATHET Poi Pet

BANGKOK

SIEM REAP

THAILAND

Kompong Phluk (floating village trip) Lake Tonle Sap

CAMBODIA

Choeung Ek “Killing Fields”

PHNOM PENH

VIETNAM

CHAU DOC

Day 4

50km

125 km

Day 6

45km

Day 7

62km

Day 8

37km

Day 10

20km

Day 11

50km

Day 12

50km

Day 13

40km

HO CHI MINH CITY

Bin Hoa Phuoc

HA TIEN 0 km

50km

Day 9

Royal Palace Silver Pagoda Wat Phnom Gulf of Thailand

40km

Day 3

Day 5

Angkor Wat temple complex

Night ride

Day 2

Mouths of the Mekong

South China Sea

Join us for a cycling trip that explores the classic highlights of South East Asia in an active way. We travel by bike, bus and boat to discover the cultural diversity, natural beauty and fascinating history of Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Along the way we visit Khao Yai National Park, the Khmer temples of Angkor, the Killing Fields and silk weaving villages on the Mekong Delta.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

3/4

8/9

Join trip in Bangkok. Optional longtail canal trip.

Cycle Bangkok’s hidden urban oasis. Night bike ride with food tour.

Explore Khoa Yai National Park by bike; Rural Thailand cycling to the Cambodia border.

Silk farm visit and drive to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Explore the magnificent temples of Angkor by bike.

Floating village, rural Cambodia and home hosted lunch.

Drive and cycle to Phnom Penh via Koh Dach silk weaving village; city tour.

Cross the border to Vietnam then cycle around Ha Tien on the Mekong Delta.

Cycle the canal between Vietnam and Cambodia to Chau Doc.

Rural village cycling, homestay with traditional Vietnamese dinner included.

Cycling on Binh Hoa Phuoc Island then drive to Ho Chi Minh City.

Trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR AUG OCT NOV DEC

or visit www.explore.co.uk

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 65

DAY

04/09/2015 10:50

ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

Mekong Delta and Angkor

FROM

VIETNAM - CAMBODIA

£1992 £1199

EASY

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CVE ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights standard hotel, 1 night simple homestay. MEALS: 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader CHINA / Cycle Guide, bike mechanic, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 18 gear Merida hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please GULF OF TONGKING see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

LAOS

Angkor jungle temple complex

SEAM REAP PHNOM PENH

DAILY DISTANCES

CAMBODIA Day 2

Sambor Prei Kuk Temple

KOMPONG THOM

City tour ‘Killing Fields’

Kompong Cham Mekong island Weaving village Cu Chi Tunnels

VIETNAM Old Saigon

CHAU DOC HO CHI Sam Mountain Tan An My Tho sunset BEN TRE Vinh Long Homestay CAN THO Mo Cay Floating market Mekong delta cruise 0 km

MINH CITY

25km

Day 3

43km

Day 4

38/22km

Day 5

16km

Day 6

30km

Day 7

SOUTH CHINA SEA 150 km

PREMIUM TRIP

Day 8

20km

Day 9

40km

Day 10

28km

Day 11

25km

Day 12

20km

Optional Rides

On certain departure dates we have upgraded the standard of hotels that have been carefully hand-picked for their character, comfort and location. Please refer to our website and Trip Notes for more details.

Join us on this classic cycle journey through the cities and rural landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia. We travel past paddy fields and fruit orchards to remote villages where we experience the warm hospitality of local families. We cycle into the jungle to explore the ancient temple city Angkor and swap our bicycles for traditional boats to cruise the mighty Mekong River.

DAY

DAYS

11/12

Join trip in Ho Chi Minh City. Afternoon orientation walk.

Visit the Cu Chi tunnels, cycling around the countryside.

Bike to the Mekong Delta then boat trip to islands.

Cycle and drive via Vinh Long to Can Tho famous for rice fields and floating markets.

Cruise the floating markets and explore villages of Can Tho provence.

Drive and cycle to Chau Doc on the Cambodian border.

Speedboat to Phnom Penh; afternoon city tour.

Morning cycle. Visit Tuol Sleng and the ‘Killing Fields’.

Cycle along Mekong River then drive to Kompong Thom.

Early cycle to Sambor Prei Kuk temple. Drive to Siem Reap.

Explore Siem Reap and the magnificent Angkor temples by bike and boat.

Trip ends in Siem Reap.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Go online for departure dates

JAN FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 66

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

04/09/2015 10:51

Insider View â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some of my fondest travel memories are from my time spent cycling through the rural stilted villages in the Mekong Delta. Children would run out from their houses to greet us as we cycled by, and being on two wheels allowed us to really turn off the beaten track and reach places not many tourists visit. This trip is a wonderful juxtaposition, blending well-known sights like the mystical jungle temples of Angkor with the lesser known and lesser visited regions of Vietnam and Cambodia. It is where old (colonial Phnom Penh) meets new (Ho Chi Minh City), and where happy futures meet troubled pasts. All of these components came together perfectly to make for a wonderful, varied and above all memorable trip.â&#x20AC;? Chris Ellis, Explore Product Manager

or visit www.explore.co.uk

52-67 Cycling Asia and the Pacific_2016.indd 67

04/09/2015 10:51

THE

Americas

On our cycle routes in the Americas you can ride past smoking volcanoes, through cloudforest and along the Caribbean coast of Central America. Discover three contrasting countries – Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama – on our epic journey across Central America, biking through coffee plantations, farms and cattle ranches and along the Panama Canal. In Cuba you’ll be inspired by beautiful landscapes, picturesque colonial towns and the warmest of welcomes from the immensely proud locals. In Mexico we pedal on quiet roads, visit amazing Mayan ruins, swim in remarkable cenotes and enjoy local cuisine.

Insider View “There is no better way to see the Americas than to get off the beaten tracks and cycle along the back roads, meet the locals, enjoy local cuisine and the ‘real life’ experiences. Having spent 10 years leading for Explore in the area, it truly is the land of variety and contrasts – there is so much to see you will not be disappointed.” Yvonne Ramsay, Explore Senior Operations Manager

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 68

03/09/2015 16:11

Costa Rica

Cuba

Mexico NEW

Panama

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 69

03/09/2015 16:11

FROM

CUBA

£2151 £1399

M O DER

Cycle the Backroads of Cuba

GIN G

THE AMERICAS

/C H AL

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CUC ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights standard hotel, 2 nights simple homestay. MEALS: 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 24 or 27 gear Conor Avenue or Stevens Galant SX hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2 GULF OF MEXICO HAVANA

SANTA CLARA Che Guevara Monument

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Remedios Yaguajay

PLAYA LARGO

Manaca Iznaga

Bay of Pigs

CIENFUEGOS TRINIDAD

Moron Sancti Spiritus

CAMAGUEY

Puerto Padre

CARIBBEAN SEA

BAYAMO Campechuela

MAREA DE PORTILLO

0 km

ACCOMMODATION

HOLGUIN

CUBA

CHIVIRICO

BARACOA

Guantanamo

SANTIAGO DE CUBA

Imias

135 km

Casas Particulares We aim to bring you closer to real life in Cuba by staying in individual homes in colonial Trinidad and Viñales. Casas particulares (Spanish for private house) offer a unique opportunity to experience Cuban hospitality whilst staying in homes adapted for visitors.

30km

Day 3

78km

Day 4

30km

Day 5

73km

Day 6

51km

Day 7

105km

Day 8

25km

Day 9

66km

Day 10

56km

Day 11

45km

Day 12

60km

Day 13

75km

Optional Rides

A remarkable cycle trip across Cuba that explores the island’s revolutionary history, diverse landscapes and its unique blend of Caribbean culture. Riding on extremely quiet roads, this trip uncovers rich colonial heritage, tropical coastlines, jungle-clad mountains and historic sites such as the Bay of Pigs and Che Guevara’s Mausoleum. In colonial Trinidad we go local and stay in privately-run casas particulares.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

3/4

6/7

9/10

11/12

Join trip in Havana.

Cycle the infamous Bay of Pigs. Enjoy a refreshing dip in a sinkhole. Explore colonial Cienfuegos.

A coastal ride to beautifully preserved colonial Trinidad where we explore, relax and cycle.

Cycle through the valley of the sugar mills then drive to Camaguey on the central plains.

Cycle past authentic rural Cuban scenes. Impressive coastal ride on flanks of the Sierra Maestra.

Discover Santiago Cuba’s second largest city and the heart of Cuban culture and history.

Cycle ‘La Farola’ mountain road to charming Baracoa where we spend a day exploring.

Ride on scenic and quiet roads to Camaguey via Alexander Humboldt National Park.

Enjoy more everyday Cuban scenes whilst cycling along quiet roads. Visit beautiful Remedios.

Visit Che Guevara’s Mausoleum in Santa Clara. Time to explore the fascinating city of Havana.

Trip ends in Havana.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 70

DAY

Go online for departure dates

JAN FEB MAR AUG OCT NOV DEC

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 16:11

THE AMERICAS

FROM

CUBA

£1689 £929

AT E

Highlights of Cuba by Bicycle M O D ER

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CSC ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights standard hotel, 2 nights simple homestay. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 24 or 27 gear Conor Avenue or Stevens Galant SX hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

‘ GULF OF MEXICO

‘

Wonderful trip with a good balance of fun, exercise and education. Rachel S

HAVANA

Walking tour

CUBA

Cueva de los Peces

SANTA CLARA

Che’s Guevara’s monument Remedios

Guama

Cienfuegos

YAGUANABO TRINIDAD

0 km

DAILY DISTANCES

MAYAJIGUA Sancti Spiritus

Bay of Pigs

CARIBBEAN SEA

Cayo Santa Maria Causeway

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Manaca Iznaga Slave Watchtower

Optional ride Ancon Peninsula

95 km

Day 2

28km

Day 3

30km

Day 4

30km

Day 5

60km

Day 6

50km

Optional Rides

Experience cycling on quiet roads through the verdant countryside and along the stunning coastlines of Cuba. En route we explore the colonial towns of Cienfuegos, Sancti Spiritus, Remedios and Trinidad - where we experience Cuban hospitality in casas particulares. We also visit the historic Bay of Pigs, the monument to Che Guavara in Santa Clara and the vibrant capital Havana.

DAY

Join trip in Havana.

Cycle the Bay of Pigs followed by a refreshing swim in the Cueva de los Peces.

Caribbean coastal ride to the beautifully preserved colonial town of Trinidad.

Explore the cobbled streets of Trinidad. Optional catamaran trip to nearby islands.

Cycle through the ‘valley of the sugar mills’ and visit Sancti Spiritus.

Cuban countryside ride then relax on white sand beaches with turquoise waters at Cayo Santa Maria.

Visit Che Guevara’s Mausoleum at Santa Clara. Explore the heart of Old Havana.

Trip ends in Havana.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

We aim to bring you closer to real life in Cuba by staying in individual homes in colonial Trinidad and Viñales. Casas particulares (Spanish for private house) offer a unique opportunity to experience Cuban hospitality whilst staying in homes adapted for visitors.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

or visit www.explore.co.uk

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 71

ACCOMMODATION

Casas Particulares

03/09/2015 16:11

THE AMERICAS

Cycle Cuba! M

FROM

CUBA

£2251 £1499

E E R AT

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CCC ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel, 6 nights simple homestay. MEALS: 14 breakfasts, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 24 or 27 gear Conor Avenue or Stevens Galant SX hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

DAILY DISTANCES GULF OF MEXICO

HAVANA Historical capital

Cayo Jutias Optional visit

VINALES

Las Terrazas

CUBA

SOROA SAN DIEGO DE LOS BANOS

San Tomas Cave Optional visit

Valle Yumuri

Cueva de los Peces swimming

CIENFUEGOS SANTA CLARA Manicaragua

Playa Bay of Giron Pigs

TRINIDAD

Playa Ancon 0 km

21km

Day 4

58km

Day 5

43/58km

Day 6

25km

Day 7

20/45km

Day 8

Topes de Collantes

Guajimico

Day 3

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Colonial architecture

Day 9

41km

Day 10

37km

Day 11

95 km

CARIBBEAN SEA

Day 12

ACCOMMODATION

35km

Day 13

17km

Day 14

23km

Optional Rides

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Cycle with us through Cuba as we tour the colonial capital of Havana, explore tropical forests and pedal past the striking limestone landscape of Viñales. In Viñales and historic Trinidad we go local and stay in privately-run casas particulares. We also ride through the forests of Topes de Collantes Nature Reserve and along the Caribbean coast to Trinidad, stopping to swim in tropical pools and see the infamous Bay of Pigs.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

5/6

9-11

Join trip in Havana.

Walking tour of Old Havana. Drive to forested mountain setting of Soroa.

Cycle through tropical forests to San Juan river for a refreshing dip.

Ride to the spa town of San Diego de los Baños.

Explore the stunning limestone scenery of Viñales by bike.

Free day to relax or explore the island of Cayo Levisa.

Drive to colonial Cienfuegos past the infamous Bay of Pigs.

Cycle in and around the beautifully preserved colonial town of Trinidad.

Scenic downhill ride in Escambray Mountains; visit Che Guevara’s tomb in Santa Clara.

Cycle through the quiet Yumuri Valley and try Cuba’s best Pina Colada at Bacunayagua canyon.

Explore the old capital of Havana on foot or by bike.

Trip ends in Havana.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 72

DAY

Go online for departure dates

JAN FEB MAR APR AUG OCT NOV DEC

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 16:11

Insider View “I loved cycling through Cuba, I couldn’t think of a better way to see it. I enjoyed riding through the green and beautiful countryside and meeting the friendly locals who fed us in their casa’s with delicious fresh fruit, home-made cakes and fruit juices. Havana with its colonial buildings and beautiful vintage cars has so much character. Learning all about the Cuban life and the history of Che Guevara was interesting and listening to Cuban music everywhere and learning to salsa dance made the trip exhilarating and enjoyable.” Cathy Barton, Explore Product Assistant

or visit www.explore.co.uk

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 73

03/09/2015 16:11

THE AMERICAS

FROM

COSTA RICA

AT E

Costa Rica on Two Wheels M O D ER

15 £2369 DAYS 14 £1779 DAYS

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

TRIP ONLY

TRIP CODE: CCR ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Trek 4500 mountain bikes. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Lake Nicaragua

CARIBBEAN SEA NICARAGUA

LAS HORNILLAS

LA Miravalles FORTUNA 2028m

MUELLE TORTUGUERO NP

TILARAN CAÑAS

Sea turtles

Arenal 1633m

COSTA RICA

Guapiles

SAN JOSÉ PACIFIC OCEAN

Quepos

DAILY DISTANCES

MANUEL ANTONIO NP

Day 4

20km

Day 5

32km

Day 6

0 km

60 km

Day 7

27km

Day 8

28km

Day 9

30km

Day 10

26km

Day 11

24km

On this cycling trip in Costa Rica we discover a diverse land rich with nature, towering volcanoes and abundant wildlife. We start in the lush rainforest of Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast before cycling through the ever changing landscapes of the interior past active volcanoes, lakes and cloud forest in the Arenal and Miravalles areas. Finally we reach the Pacific coast and beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

2/3

5/6

9/10

11-13

Join trip in San José, Costa Rica’s capital.

Discover the incredibly rich and diverse wildlife of Tortuguero National Park on foot and by boat.

A warm up ride past farmland and banana plantations to Guapiles.

Enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific coastline on a cycle to Cañas.

Discover great scenery and hot springs cycling in the foothills of Miravalles Volcano.

Explore the jungle trails, resident wildlife and golden beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Trip ends in San José.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 74

Cycle Ride along through lush the lake shore countryside with impressive to La Fortuna. views of the Optional jungle classic cone of canopy tour, active Arenal hot springs or Volcano. zip line.

FEB MAR AUG OCT NOV DEC

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 16:12

THE AMERICAS

Cycle Mexico - The Yucatan Peninsula MEXICO

EASY

FROM

£1757 £999

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

New Trip

TRIP CODE: CMX ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle Guide, driver(s), local guide(s). BIKE: 18 gear BH Beartrack hybrid bikes with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

Las Colorados San Felipe Pink lagoons

San Crisanto beach Progreso Dzilam Bravo

CANCUN MERIDA

Optional sunset kayaking

Cacalchen Izamal Colonial convent

7 Cenotes Ranch Mayapan

VALLADOLID

Chichen Itza

Coba

DAILY DISTANCES

Cenote Nomozon

f o

MEXICO

TULUM

SIAN KA'AN BIOSPHERE RESERVE 0 km

Caribbean Sea

40 km

Day 2

30km

Day 3

22km

Day 4

33km

Day 5

36km

Day 6

35km

Day 7

35km

Day 8

55km

Optional Rides

On this cycling adventure we explore the Yucatan Peninsula by bike. From the colonial towns of Merida and Valladolid we cycle through colourful Mayan villages on quiet roads. We stop to cool off in incredible cenotes (fresh water holes) and swim from beautiful beaches. Along the way we discover fascinating Mayan archaeological sites at Chichen Itza and Coba, try pre-Colombian food, sample tequila and learn some Mayan language. Our route ends on the idyllic white sand beaches of Tulum where you can relax or explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.

DAY

Join trip in Cancun.

Cycle to ‘7 cenotes ranch’, swim in fresh water holes and learn some Mayan language.

Visit Mayapan Mayan site; bike through local villages to cenote for a dip. Evening pre-Colombian meal.

Cycle to the beach, enjoy a seafood lunch grill and learn to make cocktails. Sunset kayak.

Jungle ride to amazing cenote; see Izamal colonial convent; visit Chichen Itza Mayan site.

Ride sand paths to coastal towns and colourful pink lagoons. Taste and learn all about Tequila.

Cycle to Coba Mayan site and on to incredible Tulum with white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Relax on white sand beaches, optional cycle to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve with kayaking.

Trip ends at Cancun Airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

JAN FEB MAR SEP OCT NOV DEC

Go online for departure dates

or visit www.explore.co.uk

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 75

DAY

03/09/2015 16:12

Insider View “This is one of the iconic tours that every cyclist should do. Afterwards, you will be surprised at how many times you will find yourself starting a sentence with, “When I was cycling from Nicaragua to Panama...” Somewhere in the conversation you will recount how you crossed borders with a bike, changed oceans from the Caribbean to the Pacific, cycled around a live volcano on an island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua, looked into the boiling abyss of another active volcano and zipwired down the side of yet another volcano to the valley floor. The scenery throughout is spectacular and lush. Costa Rica boasts a huge range of micro-climates, but both Nicaragua and Panama can undoubtedly match it.” Mike Tyler, Explore Finance Director (retired)

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 76

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 16:12

FROM

£2370 £1695

FROM

NICARAGUA - COSTA RICA - PANAMA

M O DER

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

GIN G

THE AMERICAS

/C H AL

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

DAYS

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

TRIP CODE: CNCP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights standard hotel, 2 nights premium hotel. MEALS: 13 breakfasts are included. STAFF: Explore Leader / Cycle guide, driver(s). BIKE: 27 gear Trek 4500 mountain bikes with lockable front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for more details. TRANSPORT: Bicycle, bus, boat. GROUP SIZE: Generally 10 - 16.

‘

DAILY DISTANCES

Everyday was interesting and different. The tour leader was just excellent. Kaye L

NICARAGUA

Managua Masaya Volcano NP GRANADA Mombacho Lake Nicaragua Volcano NP ISLA OMETEPE Sao Jorge Ferry Bagaces

Miravalle Volcano Arenal Volcano

CAÑAS

LA FORTUNA

Lake Arenal

Orosi Valley

CARIBBEAN SEA

Siquirres

BOCAS DEL TORO

TURRIALBA

46km

Day 4

15/33km

Day 5

26km

Day 6

46/68km

Day 7

50km

Day 8

46km

Day 9

31km

Day 11

35km

Day 12

38km

Day 13

7km

Almirante

PACIFIC OCEAN

Lake La Fortuna David

0 km

11km

Day 3

Day 10

Paraiso

COSTA RICA

Day 2

Panama Canal

PANAMA

Optional Rides

PANAMA CITY

SANTIAGO Gulf of Panama

150 km

This trip takes us cycling through some of the most beautiful scenery in Central America. We ride past smoking volcanoes, through cloud forest and around national parks. We also cycle by lakes and see the famous Panama Canal. En route we visit the volcanic island of Ometepe and the tropical islands of Bocas del Toro for a little relaxation.

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

3/4

6/7

9/10

Join trip in colonial Granada, Nicaragua.

Ride to the shores of Lake Nicaragua. Visit Masaya Volcano National Park.

We explore the volcanic island of Ometepe in Lake Nicaragua by bike.

Drive to Costa Rica and on to Cañas where we spend the night.

Into Panama where we explore and relax on the idyllic Bocas del Toro Caribbean islands.

Cross the continental divide to the Pacific side; cycle and drive to Santiago.

Cycle through the traditional farmland and ranches then drive to Panama City.

Visit the Panama Canal and ride the shoreline cycleway for fine views of the Panama City skyline.

Trip ends in Panama City.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

Ride amid Cycle through impressive the coffee scenery around plantations Arenal Volcano. of the lush Optional hot Orosi Valley to springs and Turrialba. jungle canopy tour.

Go online for departure dates

JAN FEB MAR NOV DEC

or visit www.explore.co.uk

68-77 Cycling Americas_2016.indd 77

DAY

03/09/2015 16:12

Self-Guided TRIPS

Our popular self-guided cycling holidays offer you great flexibility and freedom to enjoy the destination at your own pace. The itineraries are carefully designed to help you see the best that a region has to offer. Whether you are a travelling as a couple, alone, or with friends you can choose the best date to suit your travel plans; starting on any day of the week within a season (which may also help you to find cheaper flights!). While on holiday there is no rigid schedule to stick to, so you can start each day when you are ready and make as many or as few stops along the way as you like.

Insider View “I have done several cycling trips over the years, but all as a group experience with an Explore Leader. The freedom of going self-guided was new and something I’d like to try again now I know how easy it is. The trip was put together fantastically well, from the daily directions and maps, to the local information, hints and tips.” Steve Rolls, Explore Customer Support Executive

78-91 Cycling Self Guided_2016.indd 78

03/09/2015 16:34

Austria

Italy

Belgium NEW

Netherlands NEW

Croatia NEW

Portugal NEW

France

Slovenia NEW

Germany

Spain

Greece NEW

Switzerland NEW

78-91 Cycling Self Guided_2016.indd 79

03/09/2015 16:34

£570

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

FROM

NETHERLANDS - BELGIUM

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycling Amsterdam to Bruges

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

TRIP CODE: CSAB ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 24 gear Batavus or Gazelle hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

£475

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

TRIP CODE: CSNL ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

NETHERLANDS

S E L F-

Self-Guided Highlights of Holland by Bike

IN G

On this self-guided cycle journey through the Low Countries you ride on dedicated cycle paths from the Netherlands to Belgium. Starting in Amsterdam you cycle through some of the most picturesque towns in the Netherlands and Flanders including Gouda, Willemstad and Damme before ending in historic Bruges.

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 24 gear Batavus or Gazelle hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

On this self-guided exploration of the highlights of Holland by bike our route visits the cultural highlights of Amsterdam, Haarlem, Leiden, Delft and Gouda. Along the way we cycle on the country’s superb network of cycle paths and in the countryside you can see typical scenes with polders, dikes, windmills, fields of flowers (in spring), lakes and rivers. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

78-91 Cycling Self Guided_2016.indd 80

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 16:34

or visit www.explore.co.uk

78-91 Cycling Self Guided_2016.indd 81

03/09/2015 16:34

£495

TRIP ONLY

FROM

GERMANY - AUSTRIA

S E L F-

Self-Guided Danube Cycling - Passau to Vienna

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: CSBD ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

DEPAR E DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel, 1 night standard guesthouse. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 7 gear European city bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

£495

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

TRIP CODE: CSLC ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

SWITZERLAND - GERMANY - AUSTRIA

S E L F-

Self-Guided Lake Constance by Bike

IN G

Ride the most famous section of the mighty Danube River, between Passau in Germany and Vienna in Austria, on this easy self-guided cycle holiday. Passing through densely-wooded valleys and green meadows you will pass medieval towns, the wine-growing region of Wachau, imposing castles and glorious abbeys that pay testament to the wealth of history that has passed along this river.

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

The beautiful Alpine setting of Lake Constance, shared by Austria, Germany and Switzerland, is home to one of the most popular cycle paths in Europe. On this self-guided cycling holiday you follow the flat, car-free and easy to follow cycle path around the lakeshore. The trip starts in the charming university town of Konstanz and along the way you will see thermal spas, idyllic villages and vineyards. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

78-91 Cycling Self Guided_2016.indd 82

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 16:34

£685

TRIP ONLY

FROM

FRANCE

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycling Burgundy

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: CSBU ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

DEPAR E DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

£845

TRIP ONLY

FROM

FRANCE

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycling Canal de la Garonne

IN G

This gentle-paced cycling trip takes in the best of Burgundy’s ‘Golden Slope’ - the Cote d’Or. Riding through the famous wine districts of the Cote de Beaune and Cote de Nuits, there is plenty of time to stop off at the many vineyards, chateaux, villages and ancient churches that line your route. Along the way, enjoy traditional local cuisine, accompanied by ‘Grand Cru’ wines which are produced in the region.

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: CSVP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate

DEPAR E DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights standard hotel, 2 nights premium hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV

The Canal de la Garonne in the south west of France makes the perfect setting for an easy self-guided cycling holiday. From the city of Bordeaux start cycling through winelands over gently rolling hills before connecting with the Garonne canal, which leads you all the way to elegant Toulouse. Along the way you pass chateaux, historic towns and villages and countless age-old plane trees that line the tow path. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

78-91 Cycling Self Guided_2016.indd 83

03/09/2015 16:34

£845

TRIP ONLY

FROM

FRANCE

S E L F-

Self-Guided Loir and Sarthe Cycling

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

DAYS

ICKK PPIC URR EE OU Y YO URR TTU

TRIP CODE: CSLV ACCOMMODATION: Premium CYCLE GRADE: Easy

D DEEPPAARR EE D DAATT

ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights premium hotel, 2 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts, 4 dinners are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

£595

TRIP ONLY

FROM

SPAIN

S E L F-

Self-Guided Catalonia Cycling

IN G

The Loir is an equally beautiful and more peaceful alternative to the ever popular Loire. On this self-guided cycle trip you ride along country lanes with almost no traffic. Vineyards, castles, picturesque villages and lovely towns like La Fleche, all contribute to the charm of this valley. Meet the manor house owners, delight your palate at dinner and then sleep peacefully in style.

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

DEPAR E DAT

TRIP CODE: CSPM ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike in Garrotxa and a simple fixed gear bike in Barcelona. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel. You take your own luggage on your transfer from Girona to Barcelona.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

Discover Catalonia on this self-guided cycle trip that travels from the foothills of the Pyrenees to medieval Girona and on to modernist Barcelona. Ride through a forested landscape past dormant volcanoes and picturesque villages in the low Garrotxa and along the cycle path to the gothic city walls of Girona. Ride on Barcelona’s cycle paths to see the beaches, parks and Gaudi’s fantastic architecture. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

78-91 Cycling Self Guided_2016.indd 84

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

03/09/2015 16:35

£815

TRIP ONLY

FROM

SPAIN

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycle Camino de Santiago

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: CSCS ACCOMMODATION: Premium CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

DEPAR E DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights premium hotel, 4 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 9 breakfasts, 4 dinners are included. BIKE: 21 gear mountain bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV

£540

TRIP ONLY

FROM

SPAIN

S E L F-

Self-Guided Rioja Cycling

IN G

Cycle the legendary trail from Leon to Santiago de Compostela - the resting place of Saint James. On this self-guided cycle trip you follow the route of ancient pilgrims on a scenic route through northern Spain, starting on the high plains of Castile in the impressive city of Leon. Crossing the Bierzo hills you then traverse the rolling countryside of Galicia, often in the company of other pilgrims.

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

DEPAR E DAT

TRIP CODE: CSRR ACCOMMODATION: Premium CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights premium hotel, 1 night standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 24 gear Specialized hybrid bike with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV

This self-guided cycling trip takes you through the vineyards, rolling countryside and picturesque villages of La Rioja. Planting, harvesting and wine-making rule the local calendar, while historic towns adorn the countryside. Along the route you can visit impressive wine estates and soak up the history and culture of this fascinating region. Each evening, you can look forward to the famous regional gastronomy. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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03/09/2015 16:35

£490

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

FROM

SPAIN

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycling in Asturias

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

TRIP CODE: CSAS ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

£595

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

TRIP CODE: CSMA ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

SPAIN

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycling in Mallorca

IN G

A self-guided cycle trip that explores the green north coast of Spain, sandwiched between the Cantabrian Mountains and Atlantic coast. Cycle on quiet country roads, passing tiny coves and charming coastal villages on an exploration of Asturias. Along the way you can enjoy great seafood, cheeses, local delicacies and the cider-making capital of Villaviciosa. The route ends at the friendly seaside town of Gijon.

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 1 dinner are included. BIKE: 24 gear hybrid bike with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

On this self-guided cycling trip you explore attractive Mediterranean landscapes on the beautiful island of Mallorca. Ride on quiet roads through the fertile rolling countryside, past sandy beaches, impressive cliffs and woods of pine, carob and oak. The final three nights are based in the beach town of Port de Pollenca from where you can explore the Albufera wetlands. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

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£495

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

FROM

PORTUGAL

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycle South Portugal

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

TRIP CODE: CSPO ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 18 gear mountain bike with front suspension. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV

£590

TRIP ONLY

FROM

ITALY

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycling Pisa to Florence

IN G

On this self-guided cycle journey we follow Portugal’s beautiful coastline from the Algarve into Alentejo. Our route starts in Cabo Sao Vicente, the most south-westerly point of Portugal and continental Europe. We cycle off-road through the natural park of ‘Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina’ between villages. Enjoy the local food and wine along the way.

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: CSTY ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

DEPAR E DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel, 1 night standard agriturismo. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel and on day 6 the accommodation owner will take you and your luggage from Vinci to Empoli train station for your train journey to Florence.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV

Discover the quintessential Tuscan landscapes of vineyards and olive groves on this self-guided cycle trip from Pisa to Florence. From the world-renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa you follow the Serchio River to the charming town of Lucca, where you can ride up on the impressive city walls. Continue on country lanes to Vinci, Leonardo’s birthplace, before arriving in the renaissance capital Florence. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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£730

TRIP ONLY

FROM

ITALY

S E L F-

Self-Guided Dolomites to Lake Garda Ride

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: CSDV ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

DEPAR E DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights standard hotel, 1 night premium hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

£665

TRIP ONLY

FROM

ITALY

S E L F-

Self-Guided Puglia Cycling

IN G

On this beautiful self-guided cycle trip you descend from the magnificent glacial valleys of the South Tyrol to the dramatic setting of Lake Garda. The route starts on the border with Austria at Passo Resia. Along the way you see charming alpine villages, historic towns, premium vineyards and grand views of the Alps and Dolomites. Most of the journey is traffic-free as you follow well-paved cycle paths.

Y DED C

DAYS

PICK YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: CSIP ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

DEPAR E DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights standard hotel, 1 night premium hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

On this self-guided cycle route around the ‘heel’ of Italy, in the sun-drenched region of Puglia, you discover the natural and cultural highlights of a land forged centuries ago by Greeks, Romans, Ottomans and the Spanish. Enjoy superlative rides along the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, through sparsely inhabited ancient olive groves and the medieval towns of Otranto, Ostuni, Gallipoli and Lecce. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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£695

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

FROM

ITALY - SLOVENIA - CROATIA

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycle Venice to Porec

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

New Trip

PICK YOUURRE

DEPARTE DAT

TRIP CODE: CSIC ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 6 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel. You take your own luggage with you when travelling by train.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

£880

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

TRIP CODE: CSVF ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

FROM

ITALY

S E L F-

Self-Guided Cycle Via Francigena to Rome

IN G

A self-guided cycle journey hugging the Adriatic Sea from Venice to Porec. On this fascinating route through Italy, Slovenia and Croatia we have carefully selected the best sections to cycle, while travelling other parts by train. Along the way you see important Roman ruins at Aquileia and the grand architecture of Trieste. In Istria you cycle on a converted railway to the medieval coastal town of Porec.

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 8 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

A self-guided cycle trip that follows the historic pilgrim route from Siena to Rome. From the classic Tuscan landscapes of Val d’Orcia you ride past ancient fortresses, the amphitheatre and hilltop towns south into Lazio. Ride along the routes of ancient Etruscan and Roman roads and finally follow the River Tevere cycle path into the heart of Rome. Along the way enjoy superb local wines, cheeses and olive oil. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

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£710

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

FROM

AUSTRIA - ITALY

S E L F-

Self-Guided Alpe Adria Bike Path

IN G

SELF-GUIDED

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

TRIP CODE: CSAA ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 21 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel. You take your own luggage with you from Salzburg to Spittal and from Grado to Venice.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

£495

TRIP ONLY

DAYS

PICK YOUURRE

TRIP CODE: CSGR ACCOMMODATION: Standard CYCLE GRADE: Easy

FROM

GREECE

S E L F-

Self-Guided Athens and Saronic Islands by Bike

IN G

A self-guided cycle trip from Salzburg through the Alps to Venice. After a train ride to Spittal, you follow the Alpe Adria bike path through superb alpine scenery all the way to Udine in Italy. From here the route is flatter as you ride south to Grado on the Adriatic coast. Leaving the bikes behind you continue by train to Venice.

Y DED C

New Trip

DEPARTE DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights standard hotel. MEALS: 7 breakfasts are included. BIKE: 27 gear hybrid bike. ROUTE AND TERRAIN: Please see website for details. LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included between each hotel.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV

Explore the Greek islands of Poros and Aegina in the Saronic Gulf on this self-guided cycle trip. From Athens you travel by boat to the islands, each with its own unique charm. On cycle routes you explore the beaches, wetlands, beautiful coastline, villages and ancient sites. The temple of Aphaia is arguably the jewel in the crown of Aegina. With the wind in your hair and crystal clear seas: this is Greece at its best. Price is per person based on two people sharing.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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LLLLLLLLL

About Explore Cycling trips Please read carefully through the following information about booking an Explore Cycling Adventure. When you book (whether by phone, travel agent or online), you will be asked if you have read and understood these pages, as well as our Booking Conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions Who travels on Explore trips?

Your travel companions come from a wide range of locations and backgrounds. However, because we only offer English-speaking trips, the majority will be from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US. Everyone will share your passion for adventure travel.

What is a typical group size?

The size of the group on group trips usually ranges from between 10 to 16 people; the average group size is usually 12 people, depending on the type of trip, the transport and accommodation used and activities included.

What is our price guarantee?

Once we have confirmed your booking we guarantee the price won’t change: we will not pass on surcharges of any kind. Unlike most other tour operators we will not pass on unexpected additional costs like fuel surcharges and tax increases.

Are transfers included?

We are pleased to be able to include airport transfers for customers booking a flight inclusive or Land Only trip (excluding self-guided trips) where the flight arrives on the same day the trip starts and departs on the day the trip ends. Where trips join and end at the overseas designated airport, one arrival and one departure transfer will be provided for the whole group. In order to be included in this transfer please ensure that you arrive at the designated airport for the given joining time and book flights departing after the given ending time. Please refer to your trip notes or joining information for further details and see www.explore.co.uk/transfers. You are responsible for telling us your flight details and keeping us updated with any changes.

What’s not included?

The prices shown in this brochure are for guidance only. They represent the basic per-person cost of the trip at the time of publication of this brochure. For self-guided trips the price stated is per person based on two people sharing and excludes flights. Flight inclusive prices are available on request. The price at the time of booking may be different. For the latest guide prices for each trip departure please visit www.explore.co.uk

The price of the trip does not include: visa fees, vaccinations, passport costs, international departure taxes, excess baggage charges, optional tours and excursions, hotel porters or meals (other than those we list as included). We also do not include items of a personal nature; such as laundry, room service charges, drinks or phone calls. Tips for personal service are not included and are usually expected. If you book on a ‘Trip Only’ basis we do not include flights or trains from the UK or departure taxes. For self-guided trips we do not include the services of an Explore Leader or local guides. Some self-guided trips require payments for certain services such as arrival and departure transfers and hotel taxes to be paid locally on arrival.

What’s included in the trip price?

What do you need to bring?

What about trip prices?

Bike hire is included for both group and self-guided cycling trips. Transport, meals and accommodation: all details are outlined in the individual trip itinerary. Explore Leader: the services of an Explore Leader are included on nearly all trips (excluding self-guided trips). In most cases they will accompany you for the full duration of the trip. On some group trips a local representative may be provided instead (this will be outlined in the individual Trip Notes). Local crew: as well as drivers and local guides, interpreters, cooks, helpers and porters may be provided on some trips (details will be outlined in the individual Trip Notes). Activities, equipment, sightseeing and visits: please see individual Trip Notes for details. For self-guided trips, we include accommodation, transport and meals as outlined in the individual trip itinerary. We also provide route notes, destination information and maps.

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We strongly advise you to bring and wear a helmet; in some countries this is a legal requirement, so it’s worth checking up-to-date local regulations before you travel. We would also advise packing, at the very least, a pair of cycle gloves, padded shorts and perhaps a gel seat cover in case you think you’ll need extra comfort.

Explore Leaders (not applicable to self-guided trips)

Our Leaders’ main responsibility is to make sure that all members of the group are well looked after and return home having had a wonderful holiday with some fantastic memories. It is the Leader’s responsibility to ensure that the trip runs smoothly and that all the logistics are in place; also to oversee the health and safety aspects of the trip. Our Explore Leaders will be as flexible as possible - within the confines of the itinerary. For example, they can arrange group meals for those that would like to

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ABOUT EXPLORE CYCLING TRIPS

eat with their travel companions. Alternatively, if you would prefer to make your own plans they may offer suggestions for local restaurants. They will also try to make sure that everyone has as much free time during the trip as they wish. In order to keep the trip running effectively, Explore Leaders give regular briefings to talk about what is happening in the next few days, to remind you of timings and what you need to bring for excursions, sightseeing and activities. Often this will be reiterated on notices put up in hotel receptions or other appropriate places. Explore Leaders will also brief the group on safety and general health issues. All Explore Leaders are carefully selected and have undergone thorough training in the UK and/or overseas which is generally accepted to be some of the best in the industry. Explore Leaders are chosen for their travel experience, their people skills and their experience of working with groups. Please note that a small number of trips are accompanied by local representatives instead. This will not affect the enjoyment of your holiday and will be outlined clearly in the individual Trip Notes.

What are the age limits?

The minimum age on all group trips featured in this brochure is 14. If you are booking a self-guided trip please talk to us at the time of booking about the ages of your party. A parent or adult must accompany people under the age of 18. Fitness and stamina are more important than age. We often find some of our older customers are the fittest in the group! Please note if you are over 79 years of age at the time of travel, we may require you to provide proof of medical fitness and full insurance cover.

What are the itineraries like?

We offer a wide variety of experiences and activities which allow you to really get to know an area and to see beyond the normal tourist facade. Of course we include the better known sights but we understand that you should have the flexibility to do your own thing so we build in free time for you to either take part in an optional excursion or to explore independently - an important part of any trip.

How physically fit do I need to be?

It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen cycling trip. With this in mind, please be aware that (as detailed in our Booking Conditions) if it is felt that any customer is not able to participate in a trip without endangering the health or safety of themselves or any other person (including other group members), or that the presence of the customer on the trip means we will be unable to provide the trip, in whole or part, to other members of the group as advertised and contracted, the Explore Leader at any stage has the right to require them to leave the trip. To ensure that this is never necessary, please make sure that you have fully understood the level of fitness and ability required to complete the trip on which you are booking. It is your responsibility to let us know if you have any concerns related to this subject. If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your trip arrangements in any way, you must provide us with full details at the time of booking. In certain circumstances, usually on more challenging cycling trips, we may require you to provide proof of medical fitness before travelling.

What type of accommodation is there?

Wherever possible, we try to include accommodation which best reflects the local area in which we are travelling. Where we use hotels, we aim for mid-range accommodation, with the key requirements being cleanliness, safety, comfort and a good location. (The type of room provided and the level of facilities may vary from place to place.) In exceptional circumstances, we may use simple hotels with more basic amenities. Please see the individual Trip Notes for details. All our accommodation is given a rating to describe standards and facilities. You can find this in the individual Trip Notes.

What about rooming?

Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to prebook a single room. On some of these trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided on some nights, but for logistical reasons not all. Individual Trip Notes clarify this. Please note that on rare occasions it may be necessary for customers in single rooms to share bathroom facilities.

What kind of meals are included?

Most trips include breakfast, but other meals are often not included. This allows you to try the cuisine in local restaurants and also to choose what and where to eat and how much to spend. We try to keep all-inclusive accommodation to a minimum. Where there is no option, such as when camping, on safari or on some boat-based trips, meals tend to be included. We try to cater for you if you have special dietary requirements but we do ask you to have realistic expectations. In some countries there is a limited choice of food and it may be difficult to cater for all special meal requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any specific dietary requirements.

What type of transport will there be?

The variety of transport used is another important aspect of any Explore Adventure. We use everything from buses, boats and trains to camels and donkeys. You may even find all of these on the same trip.

What about trip changes?

From time to time, some elements of our trips may change from those that have been published. This could be the result of inclement weather, a change in the local political situation or in flight or train schedules or other circumstances beyond our control. We will keep you as well informed as possible about these changes. Significant changes to your holiday will be notified as soon as we feasibly can. Minor amendments to your trip will be detailed on your final trip documentation, although our website will be regularly updated should you wish to check the information at any time. You will be provided with a provisional list of your accommodation shortly after booking. Whilst we expect to stay at the accommodation stated, please note that this is subject to change to an equivalent or higher standard at any time.

What are guaranteed departures?

We guarantee that the advertised “Trip Only” itinerary will not be cancelled or significantly changed unless we are forced to do so by “force majeure” (as defined in our Booking Conditions). There is no minimum group size. This guarantee does not apply to international or UK domestic flights, which may be subject to change or cancellation in accordance with our Booking Conditions.

What is adventure travel?

Travelling to far-flung corners of the earth involves adapting to living conditions that are often very different from your own. Please be prepared for unusual situations, local differences and unpredictable events. Adventure holidays are not necessarily suitable for people who expect to be pampered or who like everything to go exactly as planned. You should also be aware that some countries around the world have security problems. Unsavoury characters are likely to be active in big cities and street markets; and certain areas may be considered ‘out-of-bounds’ for tourists. However, most crime is opportunistic. Using your common sense will reduce the risks. Unfortunately, no destination can be guaranteed to be safe from terrorism. We constantly monitor the political situation in the regions we visit and will re-route or cancel a trip if we feel it is necessary. If you are concerned about your safety when visiting a particular destination, please contact the Foreign Office or the appropriate embassy. For details see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

What about seating on flights and trains?

Although we are unable to assign specific flight or train seats, it is possible to put special requests through to the majority of airlines and train operators. If you have a special request, please tell us at the time of booking. Please be aware that no guarantee can be made that your request will be successful. Failure to grant your request will not be a breach of contract on our part. Sometimes your allocated seats will not be close to other members of your party. We recommended that you check in for your flight or train as early as possible in order to have the best chance of being given alternative seats. If you require specific seats because of a disability or reduced mobility or a medical condition, please make this clear at the time of booking. Subject to safety requirements and availability, EU airlines are required to make all reasonable efforts to arrange seating to meet the requirements of individuals with a disability or reduced mobility. You may be required to provide written confirmation of your disability, reduced mobility or medical condition and fitness to travel from your doctor.

What about in-flight meals?

Although meals are still provided on most international flights, you should be aware that there is a trend towards them not being included on shorter flights, and particularly those within Europe. On many routes with connections within Europe, a meal will be provided on the inter-continental sector, but not on the sector between the UK and the connecting European airport. We cannot therefore guarantee that a meal will be provided on all flights. If you have a special dietary requirement, please let us know at the time of booking. We will send an automated request through to the airline. Please be aware that in most cases airlines do not confirm individual meal requests, so it is worth double checking that the meal has been ordered at check-in.

What happens when there is a flight schedule change?

When you book a flight-inclusive trip with Explore, your holiday confirmation will contain provisional flight details. The timings, flight numbers or route could change several times before departure. We will confirm final timings with your final documents. We will notify you immediately of any significant airline schedule change which occurs after your tickets have been issued. We recommend that you defer booking any connecting travel to the airport or arrangements such as car parking or overnight hotels until you have received your final documents, with confirmed travel times. Where Explore are arranging domestic regional flights, these will be automatically rebooked to connect with your international flights. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible, non-refundable connecting rail, air or bus tickets, as they usually incur cancellation or penalty charges in the event of a change to the departure time or date.

Banned airlines

In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community List” which contains details of air carriers which are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The Community List is available for inspection at www.europa.eu. In accordance with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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ABOUT EXPLORE CYCLING TRIPS

international flight(s) to and from an EU airport at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban and, as a result, we or the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative, the provisions of our Booking Conditions “If we change your trip” will apply. Please note that we will not book our customers onto banned airlines whose flights may be available for general sale and accessible to the public.

Aircraft weight restrictions

For the purposes of flight safety, it is essential that you adhere to the luggage weight restrictions imposed by the airline you are flying with, particularly when flying on internal flights on smaller aircraft.

What if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

If you, your travelling companions, or anyone upon whom your travel depends (such as a friend or family member) have a pre-existing medical condition, you must disclose this to the insurer’s medical screening helpline when you make your booking. Failure to do so may result in your claim being declined. Please ensure that you receive written confirmation from them that the condition is covered. You must take this written confirmation with you on trip, in addition to the insurance policy itself. If you don’t, you may not have appropriate cover.

What about travel insurance?

You must have valid travel insurance. You will need to confirm to your Explore Leader that you are covered by a travel insurance policy at the start of the trip. Please ensure that your documentation shows you as the named policyholder and that the cover is valid for the entire period of travel. It must also indicate that you have cover for (at least) Medical Expenses and Emergency Repatriation in the event of illness or injury. Please ensure that a 24 hour contact telephone number for your Insurance Company is written on your documentation in case of an emergency. If you are unable to provide this information at the start of the trip you will not be able to continue with us unless you purchase a suitable Insurance policy.

Campbell Irvine Direct Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential. If you have not already arranged cover, please contact our recommended Travel Insurance providers www.campbellirvinedirect.com/explore who offer travel insurance specifically designed to cover travel with Explore or call Campbell Irvine direct on 0207 938 1734. Explore Worldwide is an Introducer Appointed representative of Campbell Irvine Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Foreign Office Travel Advice

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice Unit (www.gov.uk/foreign-traveladvice) provides detailed information about your destination. We strongly recommend that you read their comments about the country you are planning to visit, both when you book and again just before you leave. We monitor FCO travel warnings and advice and based on them, may cancel trips before departure, or re-route or make other changes to trips operating in or through the country concerned. Any decision we take about whether to operate or cancel a trip or make other changes will always be made in the interests of your safety and security. We will make these decisions at least four weeks before departure, unless we believe that local conditions will improve before the start of the trip.

Be prepared

Whilst we endeavour to provide as much information as possible in our brochure and individual Trip Notes regarding the areas our trips travel to, we would always recommend that you undertake some background research about the places you will be visiting and the type of climate and local conditions you can expect in order to get the most out of your holiday.

Brochure and website accuracy

The information contained in our brochure, website and other advertising material is believed to be correct at the time of printing or publication. However, this information may subsequently change. Please ensure that you check all the details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us at the time of booking.

Consumer peace of mind

Explore is a fully bonded Tour Operator licensed by the Civil Aviation 2595 Authority (CAA) and by ABTOT. We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2595). All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays* in this brochure or on our website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay, you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate. *The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. As a member of the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT), Explore has provided a bond to meet the requirements of the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992. In the event of Explore’s insolvency, protection No. 5207 is provided for non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK and other non-flight packages excluding pre-arranged travel to and from your destination. Please note that packages booked outside the UK are only protected when purchased directly with Explore Worldwide Ltd. In the above circumstances, if you have not yet travelled you may claim a refund, or if you have already travelled, you may claim repatriation to the starting point of your non-flight package.

The Association of Independent Tour Operators AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Its member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating.

Professional Service and Continual Improvements

Exclusive Membership

Monitoring Standards

AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct.

Financial Security

An AITO member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by customers with the member under the AITO logo. This financial protection applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with UK Government regulations. Members are required to submit details of their financial protection arrangements to AITO on a regular basis.

Accurate Brochures / Web Sites

All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered.

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All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards. AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnaire, the results of which are scrutinised by the Association.

Sustainable Tourism

All members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism guidelines, which recognise the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.

Customer Relations

All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion. Explore is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the association visit www.aito.com

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03/09/2015 17:24

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Passports and Visas British and Irish passport holder information

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination. You must also have all visas and vaccination certificates that are necessary to enter or pass through any countries involved in the journey or trip. Visa requirements are listed in individual Trip Notes, but please note that this information is subject to change. If required, visas can be obtained through the Explore Visa Service or the relevant embassy or consulate.

Visas

Visa requirements should be confirmed with the relevant embassy or consulate. Unless otherwise stated (see ‘Y’ below), visas are not required for tourist visits of up to 30 days. General Note: Some countries refuse admission to travellers not meeting their accepted standards of dress or appearance (even if they hold a visa). Entry may also be refused to certain countries if your passport bears stamps or visas (valid or expired) for Israel. Please note all visa and vaccination information was compiled in August 2015.

Visa Swift

We have partnered with Visa Swift; a company who specialise in visa processing. Please visit their website to download visa application forms, follow links to important embassy websites or make general enquiries about their visa service. Visa Swift also offers a full range of passport services including; passport renewals, second passports and replacement passports. The Visa Swift service is easy to use, simply go to their website and enter the trip that you are travelling on. The website will then tell you which visas you need for your trip. At any time, you can track the progress of your visa application online. Please call 0207 405 1616 for more information or visit the Visa Swift site: www.visaswift.com/explore.aspx

Immigration advice

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with any person under the age of 18. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Please note it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct, current information in good time before departure and that you act on it.

Inoculation and Health Requirements Country

Visas

We normally recommend immunisation against typhoid, tetanus, polio and hepatitis A.

Immunisation

UK Minimum time required Yellow citizens to issue Fever

Hepatitis Typhoid Others Malaria A

Albania Austria

R -

Belgium

Burma

4 days

Cambodia (1)

On arrival

Costa Rica

Croatia

Cuba (2)

24 hours

Czech Republic

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Visas and Immunisations Quick Reference Chart

A summary of requirements is listed in the chart on the left. We stress that the following information is intended for quick reference only. Y=

YES, visa required.

Immunisation/protection normally recommended.

R* = Protection recommended for travel to some areas – please check with your healthcare provider. F=

Valid International Certificate of Vaccination against Yellow Fever required only if coming from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

M = Meningitis. Immunisation may be recommended depending on area visited and time of year. D = Diphtheria. Immunisation recommended in some circumstances, seek medical advice.

India

4 days

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Jordan (5)

On arrival

Latvia

Lithuania

Malta

Mexico (1)

On arrival

Morocco

Netherlands

Nicaragua

Panama

Poland

Portugal

Russia

7 days

Slovakia

Slovenia

South Africa (3)

Spain

Sri Lanka

2 days

Switzerland

Thailand (7)

Turkey (4)

Online

Vietnam (6)

For more information on the subject of vaccinations and health protection, check your individual Trip Notes or consult your booking agent. Further information can be found at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk. For country-specific advice go to www.nathnac.org/travel – an excellent source of information on health risks. Ask your medical practitioner for the latest information and allow time to obtain the appropriate vaccinations. Cholera vaccinations are not officially required by any country. However, in practice, a cholera vaccination certificate may be asked for by border officials when arriving from, or travelling into, an infected area: especially at land borders. Please see Trip Notes for details. The UK Department of Health recommends immunisation against tetanus and polio for all countries. Vaccinations: Please note that some inoculation programmes require two injections, administered four weeks apart. You should leave plenty of time for this. As a general rule, please note that health requirements and recommendations may change and you must check the current requirements in good time before departure. For holidays in the EU / EEA you should obtain an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) before departure, from the Department of Health. This is available by telephone (0300 330 1350) or online at www.ehic.org.uk An EHIC is not, however, a substitute for appropriate travel insurance.

Special notes (1) Visa may be obtained on arrival. (2) Visa not required if holding tourist card issued by Explore or Cuban Consul. (3) Passport must have two clear blank pages for entry stamp. Please note: if you are an adult travelling with an under 18 year old into or out of South Africa, additional documentation in order to travel with a minor is required. More information can be found at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa. (4) Visas can be purchased through www.evisa.gov.tr. It is advisable to print a paper copy to take with you. (5) Visa fee waived if arriving and departing under certain conditions, otherwise visa issued on arrival with fee applicable. (6) Visas are not required for stays of less than 15 days. For 15 days or longer a visa must be obtained before departure. (7) Passport must have more than six months validity and must be undamaged.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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BOOKING CONDITIONS

Booking Conditions Please read carefully: Explore Worldwide Ltd (‘the Company’, “we”, “us” and “our”) accepts bookings subject to the following conditions. Except where expressly stated, these conditions only apply to trip arrangements booked by you with us and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these conditions to “trip”, “booking”, “contract” or “arrangements” mean such trip arrangements unless otherwise stated. Please note: the information appearing in the section headed “Frequently Asked Questions” in our brochure or in these or any comparable sections and any other relevant information on our website also form part of your contract with us. References in these conditions to such sections include the comparable sections or information on our website. 1. Your trip contract The contract is between the Company and you (“Explore Worldwide” and “you” in these conditions), being any person travelling or intending to travel on a trip operated by us including any person who is added or substituted after booking. We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (except as set out below). We both also agree that any dispute, claim or other matter of any description (and whether or not involving any personal injury) which arises between us must be dealt with by the Courts of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Island only. No employee of the Company other than a director has authority to vary or omit any of these terms. No promise of a discount or refund will be binding on us unless confirmed by us in writing.

2. To secure your booking (Please refer to Clause 17 “Late Bookings”) To secure a booking, we or our authorised travel agent must receive payment of the minimum deposit of 10% of the total trip price, per person, (or full payment if booking within 60 days of the start of your trip or at an earlier stage for some trips). A higher deposit will be payable if any supplier(s) requires additional payment at the time of booking / prior to balance due date. On occasions, full payment for a service such as your flights may be required at the time of booking. The applicable deposit will be confirmed at the time of booking. See also “How to Book” section. All clients (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date), whether booking in person, by telephone, via our website, by e-mail or facsimile or by any other means, will be deemed to have agreed to the following four conditions: a) they have read and accepted our Booking Conditions and general information pages contained in our brochure and/or on our website. b) they appreciate and accept the risks involved in adventure travel. c) they do not suffer from any pre-existing medical condition or disability which may prevent them from actively participating in the trip. If any person suffers from any medical condition or disability which will or may affect their trip arrangements, please contact us before making your booking to discuss your requirements. d) the person making the booking confirms that he/she is at least 18 years old and has full authority to enter into a contract on the basis of these conditions on behalf of all persons named on the booking and confirms that all such persons are fully aware of and accept these conditions. With the exception of self-guided trips (see below), a booking is accepted and becomes definite only from the date when we issue a confirmation invoice to you or your authorised travel agent. It is at this point that a contract between us comes into existence. If you book online, any acknowledgement of your booking request we send to you in the meantime is not a confirmation of your booking. Before your booking is confirmed and a contract comes into force, we reserve the right to increase or decrease holiday prices. Where our allocation of air seats has been fully utilised or where it is not possible to offer an air seat from an allocation, we reserve the right to pass on any extra costs incurred. We reserve the right to decline any booking at our discretion. We will communicate with you by e-mail. You must therefore check your e-mails on a regular basis. We may also contact you by telephone and/or post if we cannot, for whatever reason, contact you by e-mail. Certain documents may need to be sent by post. References in these conditions to “send” and “in writing” or similar include communication by e-mail. You should contact us by e-mail if you need to do so for any of the reasons mentioned in these booking conditions (for example, to request an amendment). Self-guided trips: We may not be in a position to confirm the costs for all services forming part of your self-guided holiday at the time of booking until your services are confirmed. Where any costs cannot be confirmed, we will provide you with an estimated price for your holiday which will be based on anticipated rates and costs. If you wish to proceed with the booking and we are in a

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position to do so, we collect the necessary deposit on the basis that the price you have agreed to pay will be the one applicable to your holiday after confirmation of all costs. Once we have confirmation of all applicable costs, we will issue a confirmation which will show the confirmed price. This price may be higher or lower than the estimated price. It is at this point that our price guarantee will take effect. Any such difference will not be a surcharge and, if an increase, will be payable in full. If, however, any increase between the estimated price and the confirmed price shown on your revised invoice is greater than 10% of the estimated price, you may cancel your holiday and receive a full refund of all monies you have paid us other than any insurance premiums and amendment fees / charges providing you notify us in writing of your wish to do so within 7 days. No compensation will be payable in this situation.

3. Payment for your trip The balance of all monies due must be received by us or our authorised travel agent not later than 60 days before the start of your trip. For certain trips, full payment must be received sooner. We will tell you at the time of booking when this is the case. If you don’t pay your balance by the due date, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and cancellation charges will apply. Any monies paid by you to an authorised travel agent for trips operated by us are held by the agent on our behalf. You can pay by cheque, credit or debit card. We accept Visa and Mastercard. A credit card fee of 1.52% is payable (£1.52 per £100) for all payments paid to Explore by credit card. We reserve the right to increase this charge if the card issuer’s charges to us increase. We will advise you if this happens before taking any payment by credit card. This fee does not apply if payment is made by debit card.

4. If you change your booking a) A confirmed booking can be changed or transferred free of charge to a different departure date or trip, up to 60 days prior to departure. Thereafter all changes will be treated as cancellations and subject to the cancellation charges below. Changes are subject to availability and are limited to one transfer during the lifetime of your booking. It is not possible to rebook back onto the original departure once you have either transferred or cancelled your booking. You can request a credit voucher for the amount paid in respect of any cancelled booking, less any non-refundable charges incurred by us or imposed by our suppliers. This must be redeemed within 12 months of issue against a new booking. No further credit vouchers can be requested against the new booking. The voucher cannot be exchanged for cash. No cash refund will be provided if the cost of the new booking is less than the value of the credit voucher. b) If you are unable to travel, in circumstances which we consider reasonable, the booking or your place on the booking may be transferred to another suitable person (introduced by you) up to 60 days prior to departure. Any costs or charges incurred by us or incurred or imposed by any supplier(s) in making the transfer must be paid before the transfer can be made. Any overdue balance payment must also be paid. For flight inclusive bookings, you must pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most airlines do not permit name changes after tickets have been issued for any reason, these charges are likely to be the full cost of the flight / an alternative flight.

5. If you cancel your booking Should you wish to cancel, cancellation charges will be imposed. These are calculated from the day written or verbal notification is received by us or our authorised travel agent as a percentage of the total trip price per person cancelling, excluding any amendment charges and insurance premiums. The cancellation charges shown below are those which will apply to most trips. However, some suppliers have conditions which require the payment of higher or different charges (including the imposition of 100% cancellation charges well in advance of the normal balance due date) which you will have to pay in the event of cancellation. You will be advised at the time of booking if this is the case for your trip. a) 60 and more days before trip start date – loss of deposit b) 42-59 days before trip start date – 30% or loss of

No. 5207 The air holidays in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 2595.

deposit if higher c) 28-41 days before trip start date – 60% d) 14-27 days before trip start date – 90% e) Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% Amendment charges and insurance premiums are not refundable if you cancel your booking. We strongly recommend that comprehensive travel insurance is taken out which includes cover against cancellation charges. Depending on the reason for the cancellation, you may be able to reclaim the cancellation charges (less any applicable excess) under the terms of your insurance policy. In the event of the cancellation of a booking where you are liable to pay to us cancellation charges in excess of the amount already paid to us at the time of cancellation, you cannot transfer or add these charges to another booking or use any amounts paid to us in relation to the cancelled booking by way of part payment for another booking. Part cancellation of a booking may result in additional costs being payable by the remaining members of your party. Please also see clause 4b.

6. If you have a complaint If you have a complaint about any of your trip arrangements, you must tell both the relevant supplier and our representative at the time. It is only if we and the supplier know about problems that there will be the opportunity to put things right. If you don’t complain on the spot this may affect your ability to claim compensation. If your complaint cannot be resolved on trip you should notify us in writing within 28 days of the end of your trip. If we are unable to mutually resolve your complaint you may call upon the low cost AITO Independent Dispute Settlement Service (details on request). Claims which exceed £2,500 per person or £10,000 per booking or claims which apply principally or exclusively in respect of (or as a consequence of) illness or physical injury are not admissible for settlement under the service. Alternately you can refer your complaint for arbitration under the ABTOT Travel Industry Arbitration Service. An Independent Arbitrator will review the documents relating to any complaint and deliver a binding decision to bring the matter to a close. Details of this scheme are available from The Travel Industry Arbitration Service, administered by Dispute Settlement Services Ltd at 9 Savill Road, Lindfield, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 2NY or from ABTOT, Tower 42, Old Broad Street, London EC2N 1 HG. This scheme cannot however decide in cases where the sums claimed exceed £1,500 per person or £7,500 per booking, or for claims which are solely or mainly in respect of physical injury or illness or the consequence thereof. Please also see clause 1: Your Trip Contract.

7. Passports, visas and vaccinations You are responsible for arranging, and must have, a valid, acceptable passport and any visas and vaccination certificates required for your entire journey and trip. Any information we give about these matters or related items (climate, clothing, baggage, personal gear etc) is given in good faith but without responsibility on our part. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry all required documentation. If your failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.

8. Travel and cancellation insurance You must have travel insurance when you travel with us. You and your belongings are at all times solely at your own risk. You are wholly responsible for arranging your own insurance. You must ensure that you have personal travel insurance with protection for the full duration of the trip in respect of at least medical expenses, injury, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment, with adequate and appropriate cover including medical emergency helicopter repatriation. If you make your own arrangements you should ensure that there are no exclusion clauses limiting or excluding protection for the type of activities included in your trip. You must ensure that all travel insurance purchased meets your particular requirements and you should arrange supplementary insurance if need be.

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

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BOOKING CONDITIONS

9. Consumer protection We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s License issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2595). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday* from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists the flight, accommodation, car hire and/or other services that are financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable).You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. *The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. As a member of the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT), Explore has provided a bond to meet the requirements of the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992. In the event of Explore’s insolvency, protection is provided for non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK and other non-flight packages excluding pre-arranged travel to and from your destination. Please note that packages booked outside the UK are only protected when purchased directly with Explore Worldwide Ltd. In the above circumstances, if you have not already travelled, you may claim repatriation to the starting point of your non-flight package.

10. Trip participation and client responsibility You agree to accept the authority and decisions of our employees, Trip Leaders and agents whilst on trip with us. If in the opinion of any such person(s) or any other person in a position of authority (such as, for example, an airline pilot or hotel manager), your health, level of fitness or conduct at any time before or during a trip is endangering or appears likely to endanger your health or wellbeing or any third party (including any other clients of the Company) or the safe, comfortable or happy progress of the trip, you may be excluded from all or part of the trip without refund or recompense. Where you are excluded, we will have no further responsibility towards you (including any return travel arrangements) and we will not meet any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the exclusion. In the case of ill health, we may make such arrangements we see fit and recover the costs thereof from you. If you commit an illegal act (including, for example, causing any damage) you may be excluded from the trip and we shall cease to have responsibility to/for you as above. No refund will be given for any unused services. When you book with us, you accept responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you or any member of your party. Full payment for any such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely known) must be made direct to the accommodation owner or manager, other supplier or third party or to us as soon as possible. If the actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds the amount paid where estimated, you must pay the difference once known. If the actual cost is less than the amount paid, the difference will be refunded. You will also be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us and all costs incurred by us (including our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions. You should ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect you if this situation arises. If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your active participation in your trip or the trip arrangements of any other person or have any special requirements as a result of any medical condition or disability (including any which affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the proposed trip and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs. You must also promptly advise us if any medical

condition or disability which may affect your active participation in your trip or the trip arrangements of any other person develops after your booking has been confirmed.

11. If we change your trip While we will do our best to operate all trips as advertised, we reserve the right to change and correct errors in any of the facilities, services or itineraries described in this brochure and/or on our website at any time before or after your booking is confirmed. Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a significant change. If a significant change has to be made, we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible, if there is time before departure. For “Guaranteed Departures”, we promise not to make any significant changes to the “land only” itinerary unless we are forced to do so by force majeure (see clause 13). However, if a trip, including a “Guaranteed Departure” consists of a group size of 3 or less, we reserve the right to substitute your Explore Leader with one or more local representatives and we may utilise public transport and/or taxis for the whole or part of your trip instead of the advertised trip vehicle. Where this is the case, we will tell you as soon as we are able. Any such change(s) will not be a significant change. This guarantee does not, however, apply to any international or domestic flights which may be subject to change or cancellation in accordance with these conditions. A significant change is a change made before departure which we can reasonably expect to have a major effect on your trip. Significant changes are likely to include the following changes when made before departure; a change of the outward or return international flight departure time to/from the UK (where we have booked your international flight) or of the duration of your trip (excluding international flights) of 12 or more hours, a change of UK departure airport (except between any London airport including Stansted and Luton) to one which is more inconvenient for you (where we have booked your international flight) and, a major itinerary rerouting. Please note, a change of airline, any advertised mode of transport, named accommodation, flight time(s) for any flight other than any international flight to / from the UK or of the flight time(s) for the international flight to / from the UK we have booked this for you of less than 12 hours are not significant changes unless otherwise expressly stated. If advised of a significant change before departure you will have the choice of accepting the changed arrangements (at additional cost if applicable), purchasing another available trip from us (paying or receiving a refund in respect of any difference in price) or cancelling the trip with a full refund of all monies paid to us. If we have to make a significant change before departure we will as a minimum, where compensation is due, pay you the compensation payments set out in the table below depending on the circumstances and when the significant change is notified to you or your travel agent subject to the following exception. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where we are forced to make a change as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care. Such circumstances are likely to include those listed in clause 13 “Force Majeure”. No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available where a change is a minor one. We regret we cannot meet any visa, vaccination or similar costs in the event of any change or cancellation by us. Similarly, as you are advised only to book fully flexible connecting transport and other arrangements (such as pre or post trip accommodation) which can be cancelled or changed without charge, we cannot pay any cancellation, amendment or other charges you may incur in relation to any arrangements which you have to change or cancel as a result of any change to your trip. Period of notification given Compensation to you or your travel agent per person More than 42 days: Nil 28-41 days: £20 14-27 days: £30 13 days or less before the date of travel: £40 Very rarely, we may be forced by “force majeure” (see clause 13) to change or terminate your trip after departure but before the scheduled end of your time away. This is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result.

12. If we cancel your trip We reserve the right to cancel a trip in any circumstances but will not cancel a trip less than 6 weeks before the start of the trip except for force majeure (see clause 13), or your failure to make all payments (including the final balance and any surcharge) when due. Please note, except for “Guaranteed Departures”, our trips require a minimum number of participants to enable us to operate them. If any trip does not have the minimum number of

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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participants required to make it commercially viable, we are entitled to cancel it. We will notify you or your travel agent of cancellation for this reason not less than 6 weeks before the start of your trip. For “Guaranteed Departures”, there is no minimum group size and we will not cancel the “land only” itinerary unless forced to do so by force majeure (see clause 13). However, for groups with less than 3 participants, we reserve the right to make changes to the Explore Leader or form of transport as referred to in clause 11. If we have to cancel, we will tell you as soon as possible. If there is time to do so before departure and the cancellation does not result from your failure to pay, we will offer you the choice of purchasing an alternative trip offered as a result of consolidation or another available trip from us (in either case, paying or receiving a refund in respect of any difference in price) or receiving a full refund of all monies paid to us excluding Annual Insurance premiums if applicable. We regret we cannot meet any visa, vaccination or similar costs in the event of any change or cancellation by us. Similarly, as you are advised only to book fully flexible transport and other arrangements which can be cancelled or changed without charge, we cannot pay any cancellation, amendment or other charges you may incur in relation to any transport or other arrangements which you have to change or cancel as a result of the cancellation of your trip. In addition, we will as a minimum, where compensation is due, pay you the compensation set out in the table in clause 11 above depending on the circumstances and when the cancellation is notified to you or your travel agent subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where (1) we are forced to cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care (such circumstances are likely to include those listed in clause 13 “Force Majeure”) or (2) we have to cancel because the minimum number of participants necessary for us to operate your trip has not been reached (see above). No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time).

13. Force majeure Except where otherwise expressly stated in these conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any injury, damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of “force majeure”. In these conditions, “force majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include whether actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, disease, fire and all similar events outside our control.

14. Our responsibility for your trip Your booking is accepted on the understanding that you appreciate and accept the possible risks inherent in adventure travel and that you undertake the trips, treks or expeditions featured in our programme at your own volition. (1) We promise to make sure that the trip arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide, as applicable, as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these conditions and the other information which forms part of your contract with us, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted trip arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted trip arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers). (2) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (including loss possessions and loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: the act(s) and/or omission(s) you or any member(s) of your party or the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your trip and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or ‘force majeure’ as defined in clause 13 above (3) Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This

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BOOKING CONDITIONS

includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which any supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised by us and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract. Any optional excursions or activities booked during your holiday do not form part of our contract as these are all arranged for you directly by the suppliers concerned – please see clause 15: Optional Excursions and activities below. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you. (4) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract – and the laws and regulations of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred – will be used as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been properly provided. Please bear in mind that standards of, for example, safety, hygiene, and quality may vary throughout the destinations, services and transport your trip involves and may be lower than or different to those applicable in the UK. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with the local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature which might lead a reasonable holidaymaker to refuse to take the trip in question. (5) As set out in these conditions, we limit the maximum amount we may have to pay you for any claims you may make against us. We do not, however, limit or exclude our liability for death or personal injury caused by the negligence of ourselves or our employees (providing they were at the time acting within the course of their employment). Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is £500 per person affected unless a different limitation applies to your claim under clause 14(6) below. You must ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect your personal belongings. For all other claims which do not involve death or personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis, the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice the price (excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under clause 14 (6) below. This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you have not received any benefit at all from your trip. (6) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea, rail or road carrier, the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation which applies to the travel arrangements in question were that claim made against it (for example, the Warsaw Convention 1929 as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention 1999 for international travel by air and/or for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention 1974 for international travel by sea and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail. Please note: where a carrier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question. Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request. (7) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any expenses or losses incurred by or relating to any business including self-employed loss of earnings. (8) You must provide ourselves and our insurers with all assistance we may reasonably require. You must also tell us and the supplier concerned about your claim or complaint as set out in clause 6. If You have a Complaint. If asked to do so, you must transfer to us or our insurers any rights you have against the supplier or whoever else

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is responsible for your claim or complaint (if the person concerned is under 18, their parent or guardian must do so). You must also agree to cooperate fully with us and our insurers if we or our insurers want to enforce any rights which are transferred.

15. Optional excursions and activities We and our Explore Leaders may provide you with information (before departure and/or when you are on holiday) about optional activities and excursions which do not form part of your pre-booked holiday arrangements and which are available in the area you are visiting. We have no involvement in any such activities or excursions which are not run, supervised or controlled in any way by us. They are provided by local operators or other providers who are entirely independent of us and they may or may not have their own public liability insurance. They may require a waiver form to be signed. Optional excursions and activities do not form any part of your contract with us even where we suggest particular operators / providers and / or assist you in booking such activities or excursions in any way. Where an Explore Leader collects payment for or otherwise assists in booking any such activity or excursion for you, we and the Explore Leader act solely as booking agent for the local operator / provider of the activity or excursion with whom you will have a contract. The local operator / provider’s terms and conditions will apply. We cannot accept any liability on any basis in relation to such activities or excursions and the acceptance of liability contained in clause 14(1) of our booking conditions will not apply to them. We do not, however, exclude liability for the negligence of ourselves or our employees resulting in your death or personal injury. We do not guarantee that any optional activity or excursion mentioned in our brochure, on our website or elsewhere will be available to book during your holiday and / or will operate as advertised as these services do not form part of our contract and are not under our control. They may not be available for various reasons. Any prices given in advance are indicative only. We will not be liable if you cannot, for whatever reason, book any such activity or excursion or if the activity or excursion does not operate as advertised.

16. Flights/Transport/Delays The timings of air, sea, road or rail departures are estimates only. Subject to clause 11 “If we Change your Trip”, we cannot accept any liability for any change, cancellation or delay in your transportation from or to the UK or during your trip whether any change, cancellation or delay is caused by adverse weather conditions, rescheduling by a transport supplier, airline or airport authority, action by air traffic controllers, mechanical breakdown, industrial action or any other event or circumstance outside our control. Where long flight delays result in lost trip time, no refunds are given by hotels or suppliers. Similarly, except where the Denied Boarding Regulations apply, airlines do not offer compensation for flight delays. It is in recognition of the above that our travel insurance policy offers compensation for flight delays over 12 hours (not applicable to flights within a trip itinerary). However, at their discretion your carrier will endeavour to reduce the inconvenience of any delay by providing meals and accommodation, as appropriate for the time of day or night (dependent on local availability), if you are delayed for more than 12 hours. If you incur payments for any services in the event of a delay, we will not accept responsibility for payment unless we have given our prior consent. If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline, depending on the circumstance, the airline may be required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your flight and/or provide you with accommodation and/or refreshments under the EC Regulations No 261/2004 – the Denied Boarding Regulations 2004 where applicable you must pursue the airline directly for the compensation or other payments due to you. All sums you receive or are entitled to receive from the airline concerned by virtue of these Regulations represent the full amount of your entitlement to compensation or any other payment arising from such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding. This includes any disappointment, distress, inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements. The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other arrangements even where those arrangements have been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no liability to make any payment to you in relation to the Denied Boarding Regulations or in respect of any flight cancellation or delay, downgrading of any flight ticket or denial of any boarding as the full amount of your entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as dealt with above) is covered by the airline’s obligations under the Denied Boarding Regulations. If for any reason, we make any payment to you or a third party which the airline is responsible for in accordance with the Denied Boarding Regulations, you must, when requested, assign to us the rights you have or had to claim the payment in question from the airline. If your airline does not comply with these rules, you should complain to the CAA at caa.co.uk.

17. Late bookings We emphasise the importance of making a booking at the earliest opportunity, because of the small group nature of our trips. For bookings received within 6 weeks of your trip start date (or at an earlier stage for certain trips), the contract between the Company and the client comes into existence as soon as full payment has been received by us or our authorised travel agent.

18. Brochure / Website / Advertising material accuracy The information contained in our brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen trip (including the price) with us or your travel agent at the time of booking. Issue date: September 2015. Explore Worldwide Ltd. Registered Office: Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7PA, UK. VAT No. 358 7552 13.

Data Protection Privacy Statement Your privacy is important to us. We will only use the information that we collect about you lawfully, in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003 (“data protection laws”). You confirm that you will only enter information about yourself and those in your party and that such information is true. For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998, we, Explore Worldwide Limited are a data controller. In order to process your booking, brochure and Trip Note requests, provide your trip and to help us provide you with a more personal service, we need to collect certain personal details from you. These details will include, where applicable, the names and contact details of party members, credit/ debit card or other payment details and special requirements such as those relating to any disability or medical condition which may affect the chosen trip arrangements and any dietary restrictions which may disclose your religious beliefs. If we need any other personal details, we will tell you before we obtain them from you. We need to pass on your personal details to the companies and organisations who need to know them so that your trip can be provided (for example your airline, hotel, other supplier, credit/debit card company or bank). Such companies and organisations may be outside the European Union, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein if your trip is to take place or involves suppliers outside these countries. We would also like to store and use your personal details for future marketing and trip review purposes (for example, sending you a brochure or details of new features, trips or special offers which we think may be of interest to you, including by email). All details you give us in connection with your booking (including those relating to any disability or medical condition or your religious beliefs) will be kept by us but we will use only names and contact details for marketing purposes (unless you have indicated that you do not wish us to do so. We may also send you promotional information about selected third parties’ products and services that may be of interest to you. Occasionally we hire other companies to provide services on our behalf, for example providing holiday reviews and mailing information to our customers. We only provide those companies with the personal details relating to our clients which they require in order to deliver the service. They are prohibited from using that information for any other purpose. We will ensure that anyone to whom we pass your details for this reason agrees to treat it with the same level of protection we are obliged to provide. If you do not want us to do any or all of these things, please let us know as soon as possible. Except where expressly permitted by the Data Protection Act, we will only deal with the personal details you give us as set out above unless you agree otherwise. We have appropriate security measures in place to protect this information. You are generally entitled to ask us (by letter or e-mail) what details of yours are being held or processed, for what purpose and to whom they may be or have been disclosed. We will charge a fee to respond to such a request. We promise to respond to your request within 40 days of receiving your written request and fee. In certain limited circumstances we are entitled to refuse your request. If you believe that any of your personal details which we are processing are inaccurate or incorrect, please contact us immediately. Please note telephone calls may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes. From time-to-time, our staff, customers and suppliers may take photographs and video footage of trips in progress, including pictures of our customers. These pictures may be used in future marketing materials and stored physically and digitally. If you do not wish for you family to be filmed or for you pictures to be taken or used in this manner, please advise your Explore leader and/or the photographer at the start of your trip. As our privacy statement may change due to developments in the law, we would encourage you to re-read our privacy statement at www.explore.co.uk/privacy-policy from time to time so that you are aware of any changes in how we gather and use personal information.

Call our experts on 01252 756 161

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HOW TO BOOK

How to book

Book early Our Cycling Adventure trips fill up quickly, so to guarantee your choice of trip and departure date it is best to book as early as possible.

3 easy ways to book

Book online

at www.explore.co.uk

Over the Phone

Local Travel Agent

Call our Adventure Travel Consultants on 01252 756 161

Visit your local travel agent

Booking Checklist

Payment

✓

Names

Deposit

✓ ✓

Advance Passenger Information (API/APIs)

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Some governments require you to provide personal information from your passport, before travel. We will advise you if this is required.

To secure a booking we require a non-refundable deposit of 10% of the trip price. Occasionally, a higher deposit is required but you will be advised about this at the time of booking. A higher deposit will be required if any travel partners require additional payment at the time of booking (or before the date at which the full balance becomes due). If your travel starts within 60 days of booking, full payment will be required at the time of booking. Occasionally, full payment for a particular service (such as your flights) may be required at the time of booking.

Booking Conditions

Final Payment

Most airlines now require your full first name, middle name (if you have one) and surname. These must be provided exactly as they appear on your passport, otherwise boarding may be denied.

When you book, you will be asked if you have read and understood the Booking Conditions and General Information (p92-98) – please note that you are legally bound to do so. Although many people decide not to read the small print, you will find that a great deal of useful information is included within it. We really appreciate you taking the time to do this.

Fitness and Ability

You must be sufficiently fit and healthy to be able to take part in all included elements of the trip.

Visas

A final invoice will be sent to you nine weeks before departure. This must be paid no later than eight weeks before departure.

Cheque, Debit and Credit Cards

You can pay the deposit and final invoice by cheque, credit or debit card. We accept Visa and MasterCard. A credit card fee of 1.52% is payable on all transactions. This fee does not apply if you pay by debit card.

Data Protection Legislation

Explore Worldwide Ltd is registered on the UK Data Protection Register in the UK. For our full data protection and privacy statement please see page 98.

Please leave adequate time to obtain all visas and make sure you have enough space in your passport for stamps.

Travel Insurance

Is mandatory for all customers on all Explore trips. Please see page 94 or visit www.explore.co.uk/insurance

Pre-existing Medical Conditions Must be declared to your insurers.

or visit www.explore.co.uk

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To book or enquire:

Tel: 01252 756 161 Visit us online 24 hours a day at:

www.explore.co.uk

Worldwide Adventures

Walking and Trekking

Choose from our collection of carefully designed cultural and wildlife adventures exploring some of the most fascinating and beautiful places on earth.

From mountain treks to gentle walks, our range of walking and trekking holidays enable you to set foot in some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most inspiring landscapes.

Family Adventures

Polar Voyages

Full of inspirational adventures designed specifically with families in mind; choose from wildlife, discovery and activity holidays around the globe.

Discover the tranquillity, staggering scenery and wildlife as you journey to the heart of the Arctic or the tip of Antarctica with our range of small ship expedition voyages.

Head office:

Explore Worldwide Ltd Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 7PA. 2595

For residents of Eire contact: Tel: 1890 747 747

www.explore.co.uk

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GUARANTE

5048

No. 5207

100%

Tel: 01252 756 414

Travel agent reservations:

PR IC

Email: sales@explore.co.uk

SURCHAR

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