Cycling for Softies 2017

GOURMET ADVENTURES ON TWO WHEELS 2017 FRANCE

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I T A LY

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S PA I N

WELCOME

TO LIFE IN THE EASY LANE WITH CYCLING FOR SOFTIES 2017

With a warm summer breeze on your skin and stunning views in every direction, is there any better way to explore some of Europe’s most beautiful countryside than by bicycle? We don’t think so.

Because there’s so much to see along the way, our self-guided luxury cycling holidays are all about taking it nice and slow in the saddle, stopping as often as you like to drink it all in. And did we mention the fabulous hotels and wonderful food…?

With so many enticing places to stop for lunch, a cold beer or a glass of wine, you should think of the cycling part of your Softies holiday as gentle transport from one delicious meal to another, complete with dazzling views and a healthy intake of fresh air. Freedom on two wheels at a sublimely lazy pace, amazing food, and wonderful places to stay - all wrapped up with our exceptional organisation.

NEW FOR 2017 BRAND NEW ROUTES From the dazzling coastline of Catalonia to the sun-kissed meadows of Tuscany, you can now peruse an even broader range of Softies locations. As well as France, brand new for this year we’re delighted to offer four new routes in Italy and Spain: Südtirol (page 24), Tuscany & Umbria (page 26), Tuscany (page 28), and Catalonia (page 30).

CONTENTS How it works 04 Our locations 06 Choosing your holiday & travel options 07

CYCLING HOLIDAYS FRANCE Picture Postcard Provence Côtes du Rhône in Provence Discovering Burgundy & Beaujolais Châteaux of the Loire Meandering through the Mayenne The Alsace Route du Vin Wines, Vines and Sunshine in Bordeaux

08 10 12 14 16 18 20

NEW: BEYOND FRANCE 22 ITALY Südtirol and the Italian Lakes 24 Treasures of Tuscany & Umbria e-bike Tour 26 Tuscany and the Chianti Hills e-bike Tour 28 SPAIN From Cava to Coastlines in Catalonia 30 CHÂTEAUX ESCAPES 32 BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY Booking conditions 34 Booking form 35

FINANCIAL PROTECTION GPS ASSISTANCE

NEW THIS YEAR: E-BIKE ACROSS EUROPE

On selected tours, we can provide GPS computers which easily attach to your bike. These display your route and keep you safely on track while you relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery (subject to availability. One per group).

Explore exquisite rolling hills and spectacular scenery from the seat of a power-assisted e-bike. Never before has the undulating terrain of some of Europe’s most glorious countryside been more accessible or fun.

Preserve all your energy for wine tastings and delectable continental fayre whilst whooshing up hills with ease.

We have in place financial security arrangements which guarantee your complete protection while on holiday with us. Cycling for Softies is a trading division of Ski Solutions Ltd who hold an ATOL Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 4055). We are also a member of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA number C6711).

Please see our booking conditions for more information about what this means for you.

HOW IT WORKS...

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A SOFTIES HOLIDAY ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

04

Tailor-made as standard Freedom to cycle at your own pace Delicious evening meals each night Bed & breakfast in almost exclusively three, four and five star hotels Expert on-the-spot support Your luggage carried to the next hotel An itinerary with maps and notes (including NEW this year: GPS navigation on selected tours), suggested routes and places to see Fully serviced touring bikes, complete with water bottles, panniers and puncture repair kits E-bikes also available for booking, as well as children’s tag-alongs Flights, trains and transfers available on request

CYCLE LIKE A SOFTIE, SLEEP LIKE A KING

WE TAKE CARE OF EVERY THING

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

Whether you take it exceptionally easy in the saddle every day or decide to push yourself a little harder one afternoon, everyone deserves a bit of luxury in the evening - after all, it’s a holiday! We’ve hand-picked only the loveliest places to stay - from rustic country inns brimming with charm to elegant townhouses and deluxe châteaux hotels. You’ll enjoy a warm welcome at every door - and, of course, wondrous dining options: al fresco on the terrace, Michelin-starred in the restaurant or relaxed bistro-style. Whatever you choose, every bite is a delight. As a special treat, why not upgrade your holiday with an extra special night at one of our finest hotels? See page 32 for details.

From the moment you get in touch, you’re in safe hands. Whether you’re after a short break or a longer duration stay, we can help you decide which holiday best suits you, and we’ll take care of all your travel arrangements. Once you’ve booked, simply relax: every detail of your trip will be taken care of. We’ll transfer your bags from hotel to hotel, and set you off on one of our fully serviced bikes. Knowledgeable overseas assistants are on hand throughout your holiday, full of local tips, route advice and mechanical expertise. Most importantly, they are just a telephone call away throughout your holiday.

Whether you’d like to add an extra night here or there, or stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will create the route to suit you. If we are arranging your transport, you will be free to fly from the departure airport of your choice.

While transport isn’t automatically included in our holidays, our travel experts can arrange it all for you if desired (including train connections).

Think of us as a one-stop shop for your perfect cycling holiday.

EASY RIDING

GOURMET MEALS

If sitting back and enjoying the view with barely a finger (or a foot) lifted is your idea of wonderful, why not try an e-bike?

Hugely popular with Softies guests, they take all the puff out of the hill, allowing you to instead glide effortlessly up. Delivering power smoothly and progressively, they’re easy to use and lots of fun too.

From the exotic flavours of the Mediterranean to the Michelin-stars of the Alsace, our tours take in some of the world’s most iconic gastronomic scenes.

We’ve handpicked local hotspots and award-winning restaurants for your evening meals, all of which are included as standard on a Softies holiday.

FOR A SHOT OF ABSOLUTE LUXURY, WHY NOT TREAT YOURSELF TO A LUXURY CHÂTEAU ESCAPE UPGRADE? GO TO PAGE 32 FOR DETAILS

WANT AN EVEN LARGER RANGE OF CYCLING AND WALKING HOLIDAYS? Our sister company, BSpoke Cycling and Walking Holidays offers tours across nine countries in Europe.

See the back cover for more details.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com

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OUR LOCATIONS

From the Michelin-starred hotspots of Alsace to Tuscany’s rolling hills and the golden beaches of Catalonia, our portfolio of Softies locations is broader than ever this year after our cycle experts went off to explore Italy and Spain…

MAYENNE Rennes Laval

ALSACE

LOIRE

Bordeaux

BORDEAUX

FRANCE

Mâcon

Fairy-tale fortresses in the Loire, vivid purple meadows of lavender in Provence, magnificent gastronomy and world-famous vineyards in Burgundy, meandering riverside trails in Mayenne… the diversity on offer in France is exceptional and the food is amazing wherever you go.

Lyon

SWITZERLAND

SŰDTIROL

ITALY PROVENCE Avignon Marseille

SPAIN

06

AUSTRIA

Basel

BURGUNDY

Nîmes

New to the Softies portfolio, Catalonia lies on the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Pyrenean peaks rise up above meadows and vineyards, while sandy beaches punctuate the rocky coastline. As well as relaxing on the beach, there are plenty of historical sights to explore… and delicious sea-fresh paella to gorge on.

GERMANY

Strasbourg

Tours

CATALONIA Girona Barcelona

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com

Bursting with Mediterranean flavour, Italy is a food-lover’s mecca. And of course the wine and prosecco on offer is another joy in itself. Expect dramatic scenery in the Südtirol with the mighty Dolomites towering high, picture-perfect views and historical villages in Tuscany, and flower-filled meadows and full-bodied local wines in Umbria.

Verona

Venice

Florence

TUSCANY Perugia

Rome

WE RECOMMEND...

AFTER A SHORT BREAK? PROVENCE FOR A LONG WEEKEND If you’re in need of a shot of escapism or perhaps your holiday time is limited, our three-night short breaks are the perfect solution. Provence is particularly well suited for a short escape - immerse yourself in the lively arts scene and buzzing cafe culture, all topped off with Michelin-starred dining and the fragrance of lavender.

TRAVEL OPTIONS Travel logistics and flight times should be the last thing on your mind when you’re getting excited about your holiday which is why we’ll take care of all the details for you.

FLYING We offer scheduled flights with numerous airlines from around 15 UK departure airports - so wherever you live, we can arrange the most convenient flights for you. Once you’ve arrived, you will be transferred by minibus, taxi or train to your base hotel. We are also happy to arrange transfers for those arriving by air from a country other than the UK.

TRAIN TRAVEL We can arrange your train travel, if that’s your preferred method of travel. Working with Eurostar and TGV trains, we’ll find the best connections to suit you.

DRIVING LOIRE FOR FAMILIES & FIRST-TIMERS Perfect for first-time mini riders, novices and those looking for something relaxed... Loire has safe and easy cycle paths along the river, historical towns with lots to see and do and family friendly festivals all summer long.

If you’re driving to Europe, we can arrange your ferry or Eurotunnel crossing.

TRAVELLING INDEPENDENTLY For those arriving under their own steam, we provide information on how to find your base hotel.

‘EASE OF TOUR’ EXPL AINED Easy: the route is almost exclusively through valleys or alongside lakes, with no significant ascents

TUSCANY FOR A GUIDED E-BIKE TOUR Forget about map-reading and climbing hills, and instead be guided by an expert and boosted by an e-bike... NEW this year, we’re running sublimely easy e-bike tours in the heart of Italy’s most beautiful countryside.

Easy/Moderate: a predominantly flat route with a few small ascents each day Moderate: undulating/hilly terrain with perhaps three ascents a day Moderate+: hilly terrain with perhaps four ascents a day

T YPE OF TOUR Cycling for Softies Original Tour Crafted and run by our team of cycling experts.

Preferred Local Partner Organised by us and run by our trusted local partners in Europe.

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PICTURE POSTCARD PROVENCE Dazzling colours and aromas in southern France

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

It’s impossible not to be seduced by the beauty and glamour of Provence. The chatter emanating from rustic street cafés. The buzz of the cicadas. Against cobalt skies the Roman ruins and fortified hilltop villages glow pure white in the dazzling sun, and the aroma of lavender drifts on the air from distant meadows. Start your holiday in the vibrant, art-filled town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence before cycling through vineyards, lavender fields and orchards into the heart of the Luberon, rich with history and striking natural colours.

Choose one of our e-bikes to help you enjoy this tour effortlessly.

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Avignon, Nîmes or Marseille. You’ll spend your first night at our base hotel in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

After a lovely cold glass of wine, enjoy a dip in the pool before the first dinner of the holiday.

DAY 2 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Located amidst lush green valleys bursting with flowers, this beautiful town of narrow streets and historical buildings is alive with music and art. It’s no wonder Van Gogh painted some of his finest work here. As well as exploring the town and sampling the delicious restaurants here, we suggest a cycle ride to the village of Baux-de-Provence, where you can enjoy wonderful views of the Alpilles from its ancient stone fortress perched high on a rocky plateau.

DAY 3 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to Lagnes. Today you will head towards the Vaucluse valley along a spectacularly scenic route to the charming village of Lagnes. From here you have easy access to the Luberon, with plenty of time to explore the region’s sundrenched villages, bustling markets and meandering waterways.

(24 miles/40km) DAY 4 Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. After a relaxing morning at your hotel, we suggest hopping on your bike to explore Fontainede-Vaucluse with its powerful emerald spring at the base of a dramatic 230m cliff. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a cycle-ride away from

here - surrounded by the crystal-clear Sorgue river, it is known as the island city and is a great place to enjoy a spot of canoeing.

DAY 5 Lagnes to Roussillon. Today you’ll journey deeper into the heart of the Luberon, visiting Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in the region. Home to film stars and artists, this ancient dwelling also boasts a magnificent 12th century castle overlooking the hills of the Luberon. From here you can cycle on to Roussillon in time for a glass of ice-cold local rosé wine.

(15 miles/24km) DAY 6 Roussillon. This charming village is famous for its red cliffs and ochre quarries that contrast so beautifully with the lush green pine forest surrounding it, and the bright blue Provençal sky. From here we suggest a ride through lavender fields and vineyards to Villars in the heart of the Luberon.

DAY 7 Roussillon to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Your final day of cycling starts with a lovely long freewheel to the Cavalon valley through gorgeous scenery. There’s time to stop at Oppède Le Vieux and Ménerbes - two historic villages clustered with striking ancient ruins to explore. Enjoy your final evening meal back in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence as the sun sets beyond the distant hills.

(32 miles/52km) DAY 8 Enjoy a café and croissant before we say “Au Revoir”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

Spectacular natural beauty in spring and late summer

EASE OF TOUR

Canoeing from Fontaine-de-Vaucluse to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Sampling delicious rosé wine in Côtes de Provence

Minimum route: 116km

GREAT FOR...

CHÂTEAU HOTELS

ART & CULTURE

SWIMMING POOLS

SHORT BREAKS

E-BIKES

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Avignon 30min drive Lagnes Nîmes 1hr drive 24

15

s mile

Roussillon

s mile

START HERE 32 miles

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Marseille 1hr15 drive

France

“We enjoy cycling as a family and this type of holiday allows us to be together, have fun, stay in wonderful hotels in beautiful surroundings and sit down to delicious dinners.

We love Provence!”

Mrs Matthews

• • • • • • • •

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals each night Luggage transfers Bikes, panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required Electric bikes on request Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This is a Cycling for Softies Original Tour

PRICES FROM £665

APRIL TO SEPTEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

3 NIGHTS Adult £665 | Child (7-12) £535 | Child (2-6) On request 5 NIGHTS Adult £1075 | Child (7-12) £875 | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS Adult £1465 | Child (7-12) £1185 | Child (2-6) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single supplement: £75 per night. E-bike supplement: £20 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 09

NEW

CÔTES DU RHÔNE IN PROVENCE Pedal your way into the wonderful wine territory

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

This sun-filled venture takes you deep into the beautiful wineland of the world-famous Côtes du Rhône. From ancient villages scattered with Roman ruins to historic cities, there are plenty of interesting places to stop and soak up Provençal history. In between stops you’ll enjoy wonderful laid back cycling through vineyards, along river trails and into the beautiful valleys of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountains. And for lunch? Perfect picnic spots galore, and lovely restaurants en route for fabulous French fayre and far too many incredible wines to sample in one go...

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Avignon, Nîmes or Marseille. Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base hotel in Mazan.

DAY 2 Mazan. The day is yours to explore the narrow streets, ancient houses, churches and fountains of Mazan, a pretty little town with a backdrop of lush green valleys. From here we suggest a round trip to Carpentras. As well as fortress ruins to explore, the town’s markets here are lovely to potter around.

Pernes les Fontaines is nearby, where you can peruse no less than forty ancient fountains.

DAY 3 Mazan to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Enjoy a gentle ride today through cornfields and vineyards to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Along the way you’ll chance upon Loriol du Comtat, a quaint village in the heart of the winelands complete with châteaux and a beautiful Romanesque church; as well as Courthézon, a tranquil dwelling with the Seille river flowing through - and some lovely places to stop for lunch too. (23 miles/37km) DAY 4 Châteauneuf-du-Pape. There’s time today to explore this charming village, built at the base of its fortress remains, overlooking the plain of Comtat and endless vineyards. Most importantly, there are wine tastings offered on virtually every street corner. Alternatively, cycle along the Rhône to the historical city of Avignon where you’ll find a pleasing array of eateries to choose from.

DAY 5 Châteauneuf-du-Pape to Gigondas. Cycling along tiny lanes through vineyards, today you’ll head towards Gigondas in the spectacular Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range. There is a distinctly Mediterranean feel here, with aromatic plants and Aleppo pines softening the entire landscape - and, of course, vines galore. The village of Camaret sur Aigues is an ideal place to stop for lunch and a potter around its boutique shops and historic sights. (20 miles/32km) DAY 6 Gigondas. The lovely village of Gigondas is a must-see for wine lovers, producing some of the region’s finest wines, robust and powerful in flavour. Lined with stone houses, its pretty streets lead to a beautiful church, with panoramic views along the way.

From Gigondas you can also enjoy a ride to Vaison la Romaine, the jewel of Roman Provence, surrounded by the Ouvèze river.

DAY 7 Gigondas to Mazan. Today you will return to Mazan, skirting around the Dentelles de Montmirail and passing through some beautiful villages, including Beaumes de Venise where you can explore ancient caves and sample more amazing wines and gourmet fayre before heading back to Mazan. (18 miles/29km) DAY 8 After your final breakfast in the winelands, we say “Au Revoir”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

EASE OF TOUR

Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s imposing 14th century Palace of the Popes The elegant Provençal bell tower in the village of Vacqueyras

Minimum route: 98km

Sampling amazing wines every day

GREAT FOR...

CHÂTEAU HOTELS

SWIMMING POOLS

SHORT BREAKS

E-BIKES

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Gigondas

18

20

m

s

ile

ile

s

m

START HERE

Mazan

23

m

ile

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Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Avignon 30min drive

Marseille 1hr30 drive

“A unique and thoroughly enjoyable experience, well organised from the moment I contacted Cycling for Softies until the last day of our stay.”

• • • • • • • •

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals each night Luggage transfers Bikes, panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required Electric bikes on request Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This is a Cycling for Softies Original Tour

PRICES FROM £865 APRIL TO SEPTEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

4 NIGHTS Adult £865 | Child (7-12) £715 | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS Adult £1485 | Child (7-12) £1215 | Child (2-6) On request

Mrs Lafferty

Nimes 1hr15 drive

France

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single supplement: £75 per night. E-bike supplement: £20 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com

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DISCOVERING BURGUNDY & BEAUJOL AIS Cycle from one full-bodied red to another, with plenty to see in between

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

One of the most famous wine regions in France, the very word ‘Burgundy’ immediately conjures up rich, deep reds you can almost taste just by thinking about them. In between wine tastings and gorgeous gastronomic stop-offs, you’ll enjoy riverside cycling through wonderful scenery, to bustling market towns and grand cathedrals. Your journey starts at a beautiful château hotel in Fleurville, from which you’ll continue into the hills around Chardonnay and Juliénas, exploring quaint villages and even some prehistoric caves. All the while, the wine will flow...

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Lyon or Mâcon. Located in the quaint town of Fleurville, your first ‘bijou’ château hotel is set in a beautiful walled garden, just a stone’s throw from the Voie Bleue cycle path. Relax, enjoy a drink al fresco, take a dip in the pool. Or if you’re feeling energetic, take to the tennis court for a set or two.

DAY 2 Tournus. After a reviving night’s sleep and delicious breakfast, it’s time to explore the area. We suggest a round trip to Tournus on the River Saône, a delightful little town of old buildings, winding alleyways, antique shops, cafés and restaurants. Pont De Vaux is also nearby, an interesting little market town on the river.

DAY 3 Fleurville to Igé. Today you will follow beautiful winding roads past vineyards and ancient château ruins towards the charming market town of Ige. Your next hotel, ‘Château d’Igé’ is a magnificent 13th century castle transformed into a unique four-star hotel. Dining on the terrace on a fine summer’s evening is a must. (9 miles/15km) DAY 4 Azé. Today we recommend a day trip to Azé and its fascinating prehistoric caves. The ‘Grottes d’Azé’ was once home to prehistoric man, and is now a listed site complete with an underground river, an archaeological museum and bear skeletons, as well as the caves themselves.

DAY 5 Igé to Juliénas. Time for a drop of Beaujolais. Today you'll take a trip to Juliénas, one of the great Beaujolais vineyards.

Here, the naturally steep northern slopes yield wonderfully spicy wines - and the scenery is a joy. Gourmet traditions are taken very seriously here, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy lunch with a glass or two. Also worth a visit is a beautiful caveau (wine cave), for a bottle or two to take home. (15 miles/24km) DAY 6 St-Amour-de-Bellevue and La-Chapelle-de-Guinchay.

With so much lovely wine to enjoy, you may choose to put your feet up in Juliénas today. Alternatively you can cycle to the pretty villages of St-Amour-de-Bellevue or La-Chapelle-de-Guinchay, the latter of which features a beautiful church.

DAY 7 Juliénas to Fleurville. Your final day in the saddle will take you back to Fleurville. Here you can relax in the sanctuary of your château hotel once more, making sure you stock up on local delicacies before heading home. (20 miles/32km) DAY 8 After a hearty breakfast we say “Au Revoir”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

EASE OF TOUR

The beautiful abbey in Tournus is well worth a visit Brancion - one of the most authentic medieval villages in Burgundy Sampling wine in various ‘caveau’ (wine caves) along your journey

Minimum route: 71km

GREAT FOR...

CHÂTEAU HOTELS

HISTORIC SIGHTS

VINEYARDS

E-BIKES

WHAT’S INCLUDED

“A stress-free way to enjoy France by bike for novices.

Well organised with very good accommodation and excellent food.”

START HERE Fleurville

9

Lyon 1hr drive

s

m

ile

Igé

20

15 miles

mil es

Mâcon 20min drive

Mr Krajewski

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals each night Luggage transfers Bikes, panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required Electric bikes on request Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This is a Cycling for Softies Original Tour

PRICES FROM £685

APRIL TO SEPTEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

3 NIGHTS Adult £685 | Child (7-12) £565 | Child (2-6) On request 5 NIGHTS Adult £1095 | Child (7-12) £895 | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS Adult £1465 | Child (7-12) £1185 | Child (2-6) On request

France

Juliénas

• • • • • • • •

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single supplement: £65 per night. E-bike supplement: £20 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 13

CHÂTEAUX OF THE LOIRE Lots of riverside cycling from one wondrous castle to another

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

Playground to the French and English royal families for over 1000 years, this is truly the heart of fairy-tale France - illustrated perfectly by the high number of spectacular castles on route. Like drawings in a children’s book, they have been carefully preserved for all to enjoy, complete with underground tunnels, moats and beautiful gardens. Visit these fabulous once-royal homes and ancient riverside towns, pedal peacefully along the Loire à Vélo cycle path amidst birdsong and the aroma of hollyhocks... and sample world famous wines as you weave your way through sun-baked vineyards.

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Tours, Poitiers or Rennes. Your first hotel is in the beautiful medieval town of Chinon, set on the banks of the majestic Vienne river. Steeped in history, the town was once King Henry II’s preferred place of residence. You can still explore the impressive 12th century Plantagenet fortress, which was also home to Richard the Lionheart.

DAY 2 Château du Rivau and Rigny-Ussé. Once you’re ready to explore beyond Chinon, we suggest a round trip route to the Château du Rivau, a fairy-tale castle with beautiful gardens and botanical art and sculpture. The small village of Rigny-Ussé boasts another ancient dwelling - the magnificent Château d’Ussé - as well as amazing views of the Loire from its location on the edge of the Chinon forest.

DAY 3 Chinon to Montsoreau. Today you will follow the Loire à Vélo cycle route which meanders along the river to the charming old riverside town of Montsoreau, often referred to as the ‘most beautiful village in France’. Along the way we recommend stopping at Fontevraud Abbey: a prison in Napoleon’s day, and now a historical site, music and exhibition venue. (13 miles/21km) DAY 4 Saumur and Brézé. Today we suggest a day trip to Saumur, a beautiful town with a typically imposing château overlooking the river. Explore its wondrous wine cellars, wander

down medieval streets, and enjoy feeling spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to dine. Alternatively you could cycle to Château de Brézé, another fine example of a classic French castle in the heart of the wine land, complete with underground tunnels and wine presses still in use today.

DAY 5 Montsoreau to Azay-le-Rideau. Cycling along the Loire to the River Indre, you’ll come to a beautiful medieval village; home to Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, built on an island in the river.

A lovely place to stay, with great cafés and restaurants to peruse too. (23 miles/36km) DAY 6 Château Villandry. After relaxing in Azay le Rideau for a while, you might like to visit the amazing terraced gardens at the Renaissance Château Villandry. It’s a great spot for a picnic lunch.

DAY 7 Azay-le-Rideau to Chinon. Your final day in the saddle will take you back to Chinon, where you can pick up some souvenirs, wander the banks of the river, and enjoy a glass of the finest local wine in the dappled sun. (14 miles/23km) DAY 8 One final al fresco breakfast before we say “Au Revoir”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

EASE OF TOUR

Richard the Lionheart’s Fortress in Chinon Amazing triple-terraced gardens at Château Villandry

Minimum route: 80km

Wonderul wines wherever you go

GREAT FOR...

FAMILY FRIENDLY

RIVERSIDE CYCLING

HISTORIC SIGHTS

CANOEING

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Tours 45min drive Rennes 1hr50 drive

Azay-le-Rideau

es

il 3m

2

14

Montsoreau

les

mi

START HERE 13

mi

les

Chinon

Poitiers 1hr30 drive

France

“All the ingredients to make a memorable and fun holiday: a brilliant tour representative, wonderful dining experience, lovely châteaux and beautiful scenic bike route along the Loire. Loved it!”

Mrs Young

• • • • • • • •

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals each night Luggage transfers Bikes, panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required Electric bikes on request Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This is a Cycling for Softies Original Tour

PRICES FROM £585

APRIL TO SEPTEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

3 NIGHTS Adult £585 | Child (7-12) £475 | Child (2-6) On request 5 NIGHTS Adult £965 | Child (7-12) £795 | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS Adult £1285 | Child (7-12) £1045 | Child (2-6) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single supplement: £50 per night. E-bike supplement: £20 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 15

MEANDERING THROUGH THE MAYENNE Easy, dreamy towpath cycling, punctuated with lovely villages and eateries

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

One of the country’s hidden gems, Mayenne is a wonderfully understated region full of old-world charm. With riverside towpaths galore, it’s perfect territory for people looking for sublimely easy trafficfree cycling with a view. In addition to the locks, mills and fords of the river itself, the towpath runs through pretty towns decked in flowers and bursting with heritage: Mayenne, Laval and Château-Gontier. Lots of blissful countryside in between makes for a delightful trip through the region - with plenty of lovely spots to stop for lunch, a cold beer or a picnic to remember.

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Rennes or Laval. Your first hotel is situated in Moulay, close to the river banks of the Mayenne. After your journey, a dip in the beautiful pool here will feel wonderful before your first delicious dinner in France.

DAY 2 Moulay. A lovely start to your holiday, today you can enjoy easy riding along the towpaths of the Mayenne river. Our suggested itinerary soon takes a detour from the river for a visit to the iconic “Toiles de Mayenne”, a centuries-old cloth factory well worth a look. The town of Mayenne is also on route, with its splendid fortified castle, medieval streets, magnificent church frescoes and traditional markets. (11 miles/17km) DAY 3 Moulay to Laval. Today’s route follows the towpath of the Mayenne, punctuated with locks. We suggest stopping off at the rather wonderful Auberge du Pont de Montgiroux for lunch; or if you’d rather cycle a little further first, La Guinguette (formerly a lock house) is another great option for an al fresco lunch right on the river. Arriving in Laval, enjoy dinner at your next stop-off, a charming guesthouse with enormous mature gardens to explore. (21 miles/33km) DAY 4 Laval. Today we suggest a round trip that shows you the best of the countryside surrounding the town of Laval.

Weaving your way along on peaceful quiet roads and cycle

paths (including a former railway bed and more towpaths), this is laidback cycling at its most idyllic. Arriving in the forest of Concise, you’re now in the territory of a once famous counterrevolutionary, Jean Chouan. This is also the land of cheese: at the Notre Dame du Port du Salut abbey the Trappist nuns still make all sorts of tasty fromage here, including Port-Salut.

DAY 5 Laval to Château-Gontier. Leaving Laval, we suggest visiting Ville d’Art et d’Histoire before re-joining our meandering river route, pedalling through country estates and horse paddocks, birdsong all around. There are lots of enticing places to stop for lunch, followed by dinner at your next hotel, which also features a heated pool and spa. (24 miles/38km) DAY 6 Château-Gontier. Enjoy pleasant terrain today as you wend your way through two picturesque villages, and past a number of interesting châteaux. We recommend a visit to the Refuge de Larche before you get back to Château Gontier.

DAY 7 Château-Gontier to Daon. Enjoy your final stretch beside the tranquil waters of the Mayenne. The village of Ménil is a nice place to stop and eat. Once in Daon you’ll have time for a wander around this lovely little village before your transfer by taxi back to Moulay, where we say "Au Revoir". (9 miles/14km)

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

EASE OF TOUR

Exploring the beautiful towns of Mayenne, Laval and Château-Gontier Cheese-making at the Notre Dame du Port du Salut abbey in Entrammes Enjoy lunch riverside ‘La Guinguette’

Minimum route: 102km

GREAT FOR...

SHORT BREAKS

FAMILY FRIENDLY

RIVERSIDE CYCLING

WHAT’S INCLUDED • • • • • • •

“Gourmet meals on your own wheels” - a very enjoyable experience all round - great scenery, great food, great hotels and very helpful support.”

Moulay

ile

s

START HERE

21

m

Rennes 1hr20 drive

Laval 30min drive Laval

24

TAXI TRANSFER BACK TO MOULAY INCLUDED

mile s

Château-Gontier

Mr Pease s

ile

9m

Daon

France

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals each night Luggage transfers Bikes, panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This tour is operated by our preferred local partner

PRICES FROM £595

APRIL TO OCTOBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

4 NIGHTS Adult £595 | Child (7-12) £595 | Child (2-6) On request 6 NIGHTS Adult £935 | Child (7-12) £935 | Child (2-6) On request

Extras Pre-bookable picnics available for £11 per day All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single supplement: £48 per night. E-bike supplement: on request. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 17

THE ALSACE ROUTE DU VIN Wonderfully easy cycling through vineyards bearing great treasures

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

Enjoy cycling along pretty lanes that meander through one vineyard after another, stopping off in historic towns bursting with colour and history, dotted all the way along the famous Alsace wine route. With spectacular scenery throughout, grapes dripping off the vines wherever you pedal, it’s easy to work up an appetite for the region’s distinctive cuisine - and a thirst for its world famous wines.

Fortunately, there are plenty of superb restaurants and rustic wine bars en route - from Michelin-starred to rustic and characterful, your cycling effort will be rewarded by the region's sublime gastronomic scene.

If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Strasbourg or Basel. Transfer by train to our base hotel in Strasbourg and explore this vibrant medieval city.

Distinctly French and German all at once, one minute you’ll be roaming the old town’s twisting alleys and marvelling at its Gothic Cathedral; the next you’ll be enjoying a glass of wine in a typical Alsatian tavern in petite France.

DAY 2 Strasbourg to Obernai. After breakfast you’ll be equipped with your bicycle. The route then starts along ‘La Bruche’ canal cycle path, formally used to transport wine to the regional capital. Heading south past the splendid 12th century Romanesque church at Rosheim, you will arrive in the attractive town of Obernai. You’ll have plenty of time to wander its cobbled streets that lead off the market square framed by ancient timbered buildings painted in vibrant colours in typical Alsatian style. (23 miles/37km) DAY 3 Obernai to Andlau. It’s quite a short ride today to your next stop, so you can take your time and enjoy the sights along the way, as you weave through famous vineyards and wine villages including Barr and Mittelbergheim. Your destination is Andlau, a hidden gem in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards, founded in the 9th century. A lovely town surrounded by lush green forested hills, its beautifully preserved Romanesque abbey is well worth a look. (9 miles/14km)

DAY 4 Andlau to Saint Hippolyte. Pedalling your way through more glorious vineyards, with the Vosges mountains and hilltop castles in view, today you follow the route to the wine-producing village of Saint Hippolyte. A glass of local Pinot Noir will make the perfect accompaniment to your evening meal. (15 miles/25km) DAY 5 Saint Hippolyte to Kayersberg. Revered vineyards and enchanting medieval villages, including the famous Ribeauville and Riquewihr, are on the route today, which takes you to the thriving and opulent town of Kayersberg. Here, brightly coloured houses spilling geraniums from their window boxes line the beautiful old cobbled streets. (12 miles/20km) DAY 6 Kayersberg to Eguisheim. You’ll cycle to yet another classically beautiful Alsatian village today - Eguisheim. Colourful and quaint, this is a great place to enjoy another wine tour. (12 miles/20km) DAY 7 Eguisheim to Colmar. Your final day in the saddle leads you to Colmar, one of the most beautiful towns on the wine route.

Bold hues are splashed across the magnificent half-timbered houses that line the streets and canals. History is rampant, with museums, churches and medieval buildings liberally scattered throughout the town. And the choice of food and wine is to die for. (10 miles/16km) DAY 8 Enjoy your last petit déjeuner before we say “Au Revoir”.

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WHAT NOT TO MISS...

Sampling Riesling wines and sparkling Cremant d’Alsace

EASE OF TOUR

Choucroute a L’Alsacienne (sauerkraut and sausages) at Caveau St Pierre

Minimum route: 132km

Colmar’s ‘Little Venice’

GREAT FOR...

RIVERSIDE CYCLING

HISTORIC SIGHTS

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED

START HERE s mile

23

Strasbourg

Obernai 9 miles Andlau 15 miles

Basel 1hr30 drive Saint Hippolyte

12 miles Kaysersberg 12 miles Colmar

Eguisheim

10 miles

France

“A sumptuous blend of gentlypaced sightseeing, gastronomic delights and delightful accommodation - all underpinned by the knowledge that the trip has been expertly put together.”

• • • • • • • •

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals each night Luggage transfers Bikes, panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required Electric bikes on request Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This tour is operated by our preferred local partner

PRICES FROM £1325

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

7 NIGHTS: 1 APR - 28 APR & 26 SEP - 1 OCT 2017 Adult £1325 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS: 29 APR - 2 JUN & 26 AUG - 25 SEP 2017 Adult £1375 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS: 3 JUN - 25 AUG 2017 Adult £1425 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single room supplement: £75 per night. E-bike supplement: £15 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

No welcome meeting on Sundays.

Mr Cleveland

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 19

NEW

WINES, VINES AND SUNSHINE IN BORDEAUX Explore beautiful valleys, eat wonderful food and enjoy Bordeaux’s finest export: wine EXTRA NIGHTS AVAILABLE ADD ON A CITY STAY

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

With fabulous food and wine, beautiful landscapes, meandering valleys and ancient villages galore, Bordeaux has a lot to offer as a cycling destination. This tour offers a pleasingly varied ride - from easy pedalling along the beautiful Garonne river and canal, to exploring the lush valleys and vineyards of the Dordogne. Charming medieval villages are dotted along the route offering plenty to see (and lots of tasty lunch options), leading eventually to the lovely town of Saint Emilion. Enjoy wonderful regional cuisine everywhere you go - paired, of course, with a myriad of fabulous Bordeaux wines.

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Bordeaux. Transfer to our base hotel in Saint Macaire. We suggest a stroll around this ancient river port. The charming medieval streets are narrow and dotted with beautiful old houses. In the arcaded square you'll find more stunning renaissance homes adorned with mullioned windows.

DAY 2 Saint Macaire. After breakfast you’ll be equipped with your bicycle. We suggest cycling up the Garonne valley to Castets-en-Dorthe where you can enjoy an easy, idllyic ride along the canal path. You could stop at La Reole for lunch, or you may prefer the canalside restaurant at Castets. Alternatively, cross the Garonne and follow back-roads to reach Preignac and Sauternes village, where you can sample liquoreux wines before cycling back through shady woodland. You’ll have ample time for a refreshing dip in the hotel’s plunge pool before dinner.

DAY 3 Saint Macaire to Duras. Today the route leads to Gironde-sur-Dropt before heading up the valley past a couple of fortified mills on the way to Monsegur. The ancient walls of this bastide are still visible, making for a fascinating stroll after a generous lunch at Les Acacias, a typical ‘café ourvier’ where the wine is served in jugs and portions are huge. With a pleasingly full belly, it’s only another 10km to Duras. (24 miles/38km) DAY 4 Duras and surrounding area. You will venture further into the valley still today, arriving for lunch in Eymet, another bastide vacated by the English at the end of the 100 years war.

Return along the valley floor, enjoying fabulous views at the Ducal château on the way, before dining in the market square.

DAY 5 Duras to Saint Radegonde. Meandering through a landscape of vines and plum orchards, you’ll happen upon the ancient, unspoilt farming villages of Blasimon and Pellegrue.

Take a dip in Blasimon’s freshwater lake before cycling to your next hotel in the Dordogne valley - once the frontline area between warring monarchs, but now just a wonderfully peaceful landscape with great cycling routes. (27 miles/44km) DAY 6 Saint Radegonde. Enjoy riverside cycling today, meandering up stream to St Foy Le Grande where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch in the arcaded market square. From here you can cross to the north bank to reach historical Montcaret before returning to the river at Castillon La Bataille.

DAY 7 Saint Radegonde to Saint Emilion. Today you’ll head west to St Jean de Blaignac, then continue to Cabara and Branne.

We suggest cycling all the way to St Emilion before stopping for lunch, as there’s so much to see and do here - with great dining options and delicious Saint Emilion Grand Cru to try, too. Arriving at your last hotel situated at the top of the town, relax with a dip in the pool or drinks in the garden before a final well-deserved, delicious gourmet dinner. (25 miles/40km) DAY 8 We say “Au Revoir” after your final hearty breakfast.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

EASE OF TOUR

Sampling Bordeaux wines - and perhaps a wine-tasting workshop Cycling along the Garonne canal under the avenue of Plane Trees Macaroons from Saint Emilion

Minimum route: 122km

GREAT FOR...

CITY ADD-ON

SHORT BREAKS

HISTORIC SIGHTS

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Saint Emilion

25

mil

Saint Radegonde

es

Bordeaux 50min drive

27

mil

es

Duras

24

s

mile

Saint Macaire START HERE

France

“Very well organised with excellent local support using fabulous accommodation & restaurants around the area & cycling through some wonderful countryside.

Excellent holiday.”

• • • • • • • •

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals with wine each night Luggage transfers Bikes, panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required Electric bikes on request Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This tour is operated by our preferred local partner

PRICES FROM £1295

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

7 NIGHTS Adult £1295 | Child (7-12) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single room supplement: £60 per night. E-bike supplement: £18 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

Mrs Wilson

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 21

INTRODUCING...

HOLIDAYS BEYOND FRANCE

We’ve been the experts in French cycling holidays for over 30 years, discovering the best that this fabulous country has to offer, from rolling vineyards to ancient towns. New this year, we are taking our cycling passion outside of France, into lands as of yet uncycled by Softies. With their sublime wines and world renowned food, Italy and Spain were the obvious next steps for us. Soak up the exotic Mediterranean flavours, coastal routes and typically Catalonian charm of the region, or cycle up an appetite in Italy where the scenery is incredible and the food unforgettable.

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ITALY &SPAIN Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com

23

NEW

SÜDTIROL & THE ITALIAN L AKES The best of Italy, with an Austrian twist - and wonderful food and wine wherever you go

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

This is an Italian tour - but with a distinctly Austrian feel for the first two nights, as you find yourself in the domineering mountain terrain of the Südtirol. Incredible natural beauty engulfs you on this tour, as you weave through deep valleys and apple orchards, stopping in the vibrant city of Trento, before heading down to the Mediterraneanesque shores of Lake Garda. Blissful dips in the emerald water, sunbathing on the shore, and fantastic al fresco dining await you here, before you venture into the heart of Valpolicella for fabulous wines and, if the mood takes you, a day-trip to the impossibly romantic city of Verona.

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Verona airport. Transfer to your base hotel in Kalterer See, Tirol’s sparkling lake with vine-covered hills rising up on every side.

DAY 2 Kalterer See. Once you’ve been equipped with your bicycle, the day is yours to explore the surrounding countryside.

We suggest riding to Kaltern, a lovely village in the heart of this delightfully sunny region of the Tirol, awash with cypress, fig and olive trees. There’s lots of delicious local cuisine to sample here - but if magnificent views of the Etsch river valley are what you’re after, we suggest a ride up the mountain in the Mendel cable car.

DAY 3 Kalterer See to Trento. After one last dip in the shimmering lake, you’ll now follow the wine route through Tramin, another pretty town where there’s plenty to see, do, eat and drink (the Gewürztraminer grape variety originates from here). Round off the day in Trento, an attractive city brimming with culture and history etched out in the form of Renaissance-style monuments, frescoed houses, churches and museums. With apple strudel and delicious beers in abundance here, the town feels just as Austrian as it is Italian. (25 miles/40km) DAY 4 Trento to Riva del Garda. Today starts with a transfer from your hotel to Cadine, about 6km away and, importantly, 300m above Trento. From here you can enjoy a beautiful downhill ride through the Sarca valley where the river flows fast and shallow, forming waterfalls as it tumbles on. (24 miles/38km)

DAY 5 Riva del Garda. Today you have all the time in the world to enjoy the sublime shores and flourishing vegetation of shimmering Lake Garda. Enjoy swimming, pottering around the shops, and a long, lazy al fresco lunch with a lakeside view.

If you can tear yourself away, you can also explore the nearby villages of Torbole and Nago where you can wander through tiny backstreets and around ancient churches.

DAY 6 Riva del Garda to San Pietro in Cariano. Today starts with a ferry ride down the length of Lake Garda to Sirmione, an ancient municipality dating back to Roman times. Once on shore, the route takes you to San Pietro in Cariano, in the heart of Valpolicella, an area renowned for its wine production - you’ll have ample time to sample a wondrous array of the region’s finest exports. (21 miles/34km) DAY 7 San Pietro in Cariano. After lovely strong coffee and a tasty breakfast on the vine-covered terrace, enjoy a lazy final day in Italy. Verona is only about 15km away, so we suggest a pootle along the designated cycle routes into this famous Italian city of love.

DAY 8 After one more balmy breakfast out in the sun, we say “Arrivederci”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

EASE OF TOUR

Visiting the South Tyrolean Wine Museum in Kaltern Lunch in a converted castle restarant on the edge of Lake Toblino

Minimum route: 112km

Lake Garda’s ‘Grottoes of Catullus’

GREAT FOR...

FAMILY FRIENDLY

HISTORIC SIGHTS

MOUNTAINS & LAKES

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Kalterer See

24

mi

Trento

Riva del Garda

iles

Italy

21 m

Verona 1hr40 drive

les

25

mil

es

START HERE

San Pietro in Cariano

“Excellent combination of cycling, opportunity to appreciate the countryside, villages and overall surroundings.

Quality hotel accommodation and superb food.”

Mrs Carney

• • • • • • • •

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals each night Luggage transfers Panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions (GPS on request) Local support available when required All private tours, events and entrance fees Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This is a Cycling for Softies Original Tour

PRICES FROM £1355 2017 DEPARTURE DATES: 18 & 29 JUNE 10 & 21 JULY 1, 12 & 23 AUGUST 3 & 14 SEPTEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

7 NIGHTS Adult £1355 | Child (7-12) £1215 | Child (2-6) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included.

Single room supplement: £40 per night. E-bike supplement: £20 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 25

NEW EXCLUSIVE GUIDED TOUR

TREASURES OF TUSCANY & UMBRIA E-BIKE TOUR A fully guided journey into glorious Italy, made easy with e-bikes NON GUIDED B&B-ONLY OPTION ALSO AVAILABLE

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

While most of our tours are self-guided with suggested itineraries, on this tour you can opt to be guided. Taking you off the beaten track, our expert British guide will introduce you to Tuscany and Umbria's secret best bits and because you’ll be fitted with a power assisted Raleigh e-bike, it’s easy pedalling all the way. Take in the grand views as you purr through Italy’s stunning valleys and quaint hill-top villages.

Wend your way gently along quiet side roads and tracks; travel upon the ancient ‘via Flaminia’ highway of the Roman empire; and feast on wondrous Italian fayre and delicious Italian wine.

26

If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Perugia, Florence or Rome airport and transfer to Cortona. Set up in the hills of southern Tuscany with spectacular views of the surrounding valley and Lake Trasimeno, the Tuscan jewel of Cortona is where you’ll begin and end your safari. At your hotel you’ll be fitted out with your e-bike and briefed on how to use it before enjoying drinks and dinner.

DAY 2 Cortona to Montone. After breakfast, begin your journey towards the Tuscany and Umbria border to visit ancient castles of the Niccone Valley. Enjoy lunch in the Upper Tiber Valley before taking the riverside path and country roads to medieval Montone where you’ll enjoy a fabulous dinner.

(2hr20 cycle time) DAY 3 Montone to Gubbio. Take a typical workers' lunch in a piazza-side trattoria in the historic town of Pietralunga. From here you'll pick up the trail of St. Francis of Assisi to continue your journey, on which spectacular vistas are abundant. Stopping off to explore the second-largest theatre of the Roman Empire, you’ll then arrive in Gubbio, a pretty town set on the slopes of Monte Ingino, known for its medieval palaces and cathedrals.

(2hr50 cycle time) DAY 4 Gubbio to Assisi. After breakfast on the terrace, ride through the city gate towards the rolling foothills of the Apennine and the Via Flaminia, Rome’s ancient highway to the

north. Savour an unforgettable lunch of typical Umbrian dishes before cycling to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis.

(3hr cycle time) DAY 5 Rest day in Assisi. Although your e-bike has helped you effortlessly glide up every hill, it’s still nice to rest your legs today, and explore this beautiful town. There is an optional private tour, or you can simply wander the cobblestone streets, drinking in Assisi’s medieval architecture and artistry.

DAY 6 Assisi to Tavernelle di Panicale. Descend into the broad Assisi valley heading west and to Cantina Goretti, where you can taste L’Arringatore, the wine of the Pope and a light lunch.

The afternoon gentle ride continues towards the rolling hills of Panicale. (2hr40 cycle time) DAY 7 Tavernelle di Panicale to Cortona. A short ride soon reveals the shores and expanse of Lake Trasimeno. Enjoy lunch in the vineyard with local wine tasting before meandering back to Cortona. (2hr40 cycle time) DAY 8 After your final caffè latte this morning, we say “Arrivederci”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

Celebrity chef, Giancarlo’s dinner with wine tasting in Montone

EASE OF TOUR

Magnificent ancient castles in the Niccone Valley Relaxing on the shores of Trasimeno, Italy’s largest peninsular lake

E-bikes ease the climbs on this tour

GREAT FOR...

CITY ADD-ON

E-BIKES

HISTORIC SIGHTS

ART & CULTURE

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED • • • • • • • •

Hotel accommodation All breakfasts, 6 lunches and dinners plus refreshments Luggage transfers Raleigh e-bikes with personalised fittings Panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions Local support available when required Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This tour is operated by our preferred local partner E-BIKES EAT UP THE MILES, SO WE

PRICES FROM £1055

DISPLAY THESE

Florence 2hr drive START HERE Cortona

le

yc

0c

r2 2h

TOURS IN CYCLE

2hr5

Montone

0 cy

HOURS INSTEAD OF

cle t

ime

Gubbio

e tim

APRIL TO OCTOBER

DISTANCE

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

7 NIGHTS: GUIDED AND FULL BOARD 20 MAY, 10 JUN, 8 JUL, 9 & 23 SEP, 7 OCT 2017

WHY E-BIKE? E-bikes are fun, easy to use and brilliant for a power boost up the hills. With that helping hand when you need it, you can whoosh up hills with minimum effort and enjoy the views from the top. This tour is exclusively for e-bikes, but these brilliant bikes are also available on other tours for a supplement.

3hrs cycle time 2hr40 cycle time

Tavernelle di Panicale

Assisi

2hr40 cycle time

Perugia 50min drive

Italy

Adult £2155 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request 5 NIGHTS: GUIDED AND FULL BOARD 20 MAY, 10 JUN, 8 JUL, 9 & 23 SEP, 7 OCT 2017 Adult £1925 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS: SELF GUIDED AND BED & BREAKFAST 29 APR - 28 OCT 2017 Adult £1425 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request 5 NIGHTS: SELF GUIDED AND BED & BREAKFAST 29 APR - 28 OCT 2017 Adult £1055 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Guided and Full-Board Option includes transfers from Perugia, breakfast, 6 lunches with wine, 6 dinners, 6 morning coffee stops and tour entrance fees. Single room supplement: on request. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 27

NEW EXCLUSIVE GUIDED TOUR

TUSCANY & THE CHIANTI HILLS E-BIKE TOUR

A fully guided e-bike adventure across a classic Tuscan landscape into the winelands

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

From the cypress-lined paths of Gladiator to the beautiful villa featured in Kenneth Brannagh’s Much Ado About Nothing, this dreamy Tuscan tour seems to take you from one beautiful film set to another. Starting high in the Tuscan hills, in the pretty town of Cortona, this tour takes you deep into the most enticing Chianti wine territory - with plenty of opportunities to sample the goods, alongside wondrous Italian fayre. The views from the top of the Chianti hills are spectacular - and far easier to enjoy, thanks to the Raleigh e-bike you’ll be equipped with.

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Perugia, Florence or Rome airport and transfer to Cortona. This lovely hillside town is a natural balcony for the Val di Chiana with stunning views towards Lake Trasimeno, Montepulciano and the Tuscany hills. There will be time today to wander its medieval streets before returning to your hotel where you’ll be fitted out with your e-bike and briefed on how to use it before enjoying your first wine tasting of the holiday.

DAY 4 San Quirico to Asciano. A gentle cycle day across classic Tuscan terrain with dramatic panoramas in every direction, the route takes you through the medieval village of Asciano where you can enjoy wood-fired oven pizza for lunch. The beautiful city of Siena is 10km away, for those keen to venture a little further to explore it. The overnight stay is 10km from Siena and the famous ‘Crete Senesi’. (2hr20 cycle time).

DAY 2 Cortona to San Quirico. Today you'll begin your adventure across Tuscany, cycling across the plain of the Val di Chiana towards the rolling Tuscan hills. Entering the renowned wine area of Montepulciano, here you can sample a few more delicious tipples over lunch. You'll then continue towards San Quirico, where you will stay the night, through spectacular scenery that typifies everything you’ve always envisaged Tuscany to be. (3hr20 cycle time).

DAY 5 Asciano to Radda. Following the tracks of the L’Eroica vintage cycle race, today you head north into the rolling hills of classic ‘Chianti country’ for wine tasting in yet more amazingly beautiful film-set style territory. (2hr40 cycle time)

DAY 3 Val d’Orcia and back. Today you take a round trip through Pienza, dropping into the Val d’Orcia with the pointed peak of Monte Amiata as your backdrop. You will cycle through the same fields that ‘Gladiator’ Maximus is seen galloping home to save his family. Next you enter the Montalcino wine area, passing Castelnuovo dell’Abate and the famous Abbey of Sant’Antimo.

Stopping here for lunch and more lovely wine, you can also visit the bike museum before returning to San Quirico d’Orcia via the town of Montalcino.

DAY 6 Chianti. Today you'll explore the best of Chianti: Greve and the surrounding countryside of shallow, wooded valleys; and Radda, a delightful medieval town. Along the way, you’ll be able to sample several highly regarded DOCG wines: Chianti, Chianti Classico and Chianti Superiore. Best enjoyed while sitting in a sun-filled piazza over a spot of lunch.

DAY 7 Radda to Cortona. After a night in Radda, you’ll enjoy a blissful descent back to the foot of Cortona, across the valley of the Chiana. (3hr50 cycle time) DAY 8 After your final long, lazy breakfast in the Tuscan hills, we say “Arrivederci”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

The Monastery of Sant’Anna in Camprena where The English Patient was filmed

EASE OF TOUR

Bagno Vignoni, where you can plunge your feet into deliciously warm spa waters

E-bikes ease the climbs on this tour

‘Crete Senesi’, or Siennese Clays

GREAT FOR...

CITY ADD-ON

E-BIKES

HISTORIC SIGHTS

ART & CULTURE

VINEYARDS

WHAT’S INCLUDED • • • • • • • • • E-BIKES EAT UP THE MILES, SO WE DISPLAY THESE TOURS IN CYCLE HOURS INSTEAD OF DISTANCE

Radda

Florence 2hr drive

3h

r5

yc

0 r4

2h

0c

le

tim

START HERE

cy

e

cle

Cortona

tim e

Asciano

2hr20

Perugia 50min drive

e

tim

e

m cycle ti

0

r2

3h

cle

cy

San Quirico

Italy

“These e-bike tours are a fantastic way to explore the rolling hills of Tuscany. The bikes themselves are really good fun to use and mean you can ride long distances and scale hilly terrain with ease. They're also available on most of our tours.”

Miles Porter, Cycling For Softies

Hotel accommodation Six lunches and dinner plus refreshments Luggage transfers Raleigh e-bikes with personalised fittings Panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions Local support available when required All private tours, events and entrance fees Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This tour is operated by our preferred local partner

PRICES

FROM £1145 APRIL TO OCTOBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

7 NIGHTS: GUIDED AND FULL BOARD 6 MAY, 3 & 24 JUN, 2 & 16 SEP, 14 OCT 2017 Adult £2825 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request 7 NIGHTS: SELF GUIDED AND BED & BREAKFAST 29 APR - 28 OCT 2017 Adult £1475 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request 5 NIGHTS: SELF GUIDED AND BED & BREAKFAST 29 APR - 28 OCT 2017 Adult £1145 | Child (7-12) On request | Child (2-6) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Guided and Full-Board Option includes transfers from Perugia, breakfast, 6 lunches with wine, 6 dinners, 6 morning coffee stops and tour entrance fees. Single room supplement: on request. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 29

NEW

FROM CAVA TO COASTLINES IN CATALONIA A glorious gastronomic journey across one of the Costa Brava’s most fruitful hotspots EXTRA NIGHTS AVAILABLE ADD ON A CITY STAY

TAILOR-MADE AS STANDARD

Discover a landscape bountiful in mouth-watering produce - from the finest olive oil and wine, to the freshest fruit and fish. This sun-filled cycling experience along one of the Costa Brava’s most lovely routes is packed with flavour from start to finish. Explore, not just the beautiful terrain, but the vast array of produce borne from it, meeting and learning from local producers as you go. Tour through perfectly preserved medieval villages, secluded sandy coves, orchards, olive trees, rice fields and vineyards along the way, finishing in Palamos on the coast. This tour also comes with the option to add on a city stay in Girona or Barcelona.

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If you’d prefer an extra day or night anywhere, or would like to stop at a particular hotel or town, our cycle experts will adapt the route to suit you.

SUGGESTED TOUR DAY 1 Arrive at Girona or Barcelona. Transfer by minibus, taxi or train to your first hotel in the centre of Figueres, the birthplace of renowned surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Enjoy a glass of Cava during your welcome briefing before enjoying a traditional Catalan meal of locally sourced produce.

producers on the way. These include the highly respected artisan olive oil producer Can Solivera, whose oils are used by some of the top restaurants in the world. The route back to Torroella takes you via Palau Sator and Fontclara (which means ‘clear water’) where you can stop at the ancient font for a cooling drink.

DAY 2 Figueres and Serra d’Altrera. Today enjoy a lovely circular route through several vineyards and olive groves, to Peralada, a beautiful medieval town in the heart of the wine area. From here the route continues to Serra d’Altrera, with magnificent views over the plain and the Albera mountains along the way, before winding back via Vilarnadal and Cabanes.

Back in Figueres, we suggest a visit to Dalí’s theatre-museum.

Figueres also boasts some lovely shopping streets and a huge 18th century fortress.

DAY 5 Torroella to Palamos. Your route today passes through the rice fields of Arros de Moli de Pals towards the perfectly preserved hilltop medieval town of Pals. From here we suggest cycling down to Palafrugell and calling in at the Museum de Confitura, then visiting Mas Oller vineyard, which produces some excellent wines. Your final destination is the lively town of Palamos which boasts a lovely beach and charming port - perfect for an evening stroll before dinner. (23 miles/37km)

DAY 3 Figueres to Torroella de Montgri. Today you will travel south through Alt Emporda to Baix Emporda, past the river Fluvia, to Torroella de Montgri. We suggest stopping off at the Greek and Roman ruins of 6th century Empuries, situated right behind a beautiful beach. For lunch, try tapas on the seafront at Bar Riba, before visiting ‘Anxovies Soles’ to pick up a jar of the famous anchovies produced in l’Escala. (26 miles/42km) DAY 4 Artisan olive oil and medieval villages. Today’s route meanders through many pretty medieval villages, visiting local

DAY 6 Palamos. On your final day we suggest a round trip, taking the coastal path to one of the last unspoilt beaches on the Costa Brava. You’ll cycle along to the port where you can visit the maritime museum if you wish, and watch the fishermen bring in their catch of the day. The beach path links Palamos to Torre Valentina, where you can enjoy gorgeous ocean views and a complementary glass of wine in the local bodega. (13 miles/22km) DAY 7 Enjoy one final Spanish breakfast in the sunshine before we say “Adiós”.

WHAT NOT TO MISS...

Feasting on the Jamon Iberico, seafood paella and Emporda wines

EASE OF TOUR

The amazing choice of traditional tapas bars in the lively town of Palamos Explore The Salvador Dalí Museum in his home town of Figueres

Minimum route: 101km

GREAT FOR...

CITY ADD-ON

COASTAL

VINEYARDS

ART & CULTURE

WHAT’S INCLUDED • • • • • • •

“Riding a bike is the best way to appreciate the countryside. At the end of the day a glass of wine and an excellent meal at a comfortable and welcoming hotel is sublime.”

Figueres

START HERE

Girona 45min drive

26 les

mi Torroella de Montgri

iles

m 23

Barcelona 1hr40 drive

Palamos

Mr James

Spain

Bed & breakfast hotel accommodation Evening meals with wine each night Luggage transfers Panniers, water bottles, puncture repair kits Route maps and instructions Local support available when required Flights and transfers are not included in the prices below, but we can organise these for you on request.

This tour is operated by our preferred local partner

PRICES FROM £1215

APRIL TO DECEMBER

SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE

6 NIGHTS: APR, OCT, NOV AND DEC Adult £1215 | Child (7-12) £1215 | Child (2-6) On request 6 NIGHTS: MAY, JUN AND SEP Adult £1295 | Child (7-12) £1295 | Child (2-6) On request 6 NIGHTS: JUL AND AUG Adult £1415 | Child (7-12) £1415 | Child (2-6) On request

All prices per person, based on two people sharing and two nights per hotel. Includes breakfast, gourmet evening meal, bikes and equipment and luggage transfers unless otherwise stated. Travel not included. Single room supplement: on request. E-bike supplement: £22 per day. Travel options: See page 07.

Speak to an expert on 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com 31

UPGRADE YOUR ADVENTURE

TO A LUXURY CHÂTEAU ESCAPE

Why not make your cycling holiday even more special?

Add a shot of luxury with a night or two in one of our fabulous châteaux hotels in France. This year we’ve got three to choose from: two are in Provence, one is in the Loire. Gorgeous either on their own, or as an add-on treat to your holiday. All are welcoming and indulgent, wonderfully deluxe, with stunning pools and beautiful grounds. Perfect for birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries... or just because.

Excellent service awaits you at these sublime hotels. After you have settled into your room, head downstairs for a pre-supper apéritif before indulging in a gastronomic four-course feast, served with the finest wines.

The days are your own. You’ll have bikes, maps and suggested routes at your disposal. Equally, you could just book a massage, visit a vineyard or relax in the gardens with a book. What could possibly be better?

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To find out more, call 020 7471 7760 or visit www.cyclingforsofties.com

CRILLON LE BRAVE, PROVENCE You can add on an extra night to the Provence tour or take a full weekend escape at the Crillon Le Brave. The stunning hotel is the perfect spot to unwind and do absolutely nothing at all, except gently wonder from the pool-side to the chef's table. For the more adventurous, Crillon Le Brave is situated right next to Mont Ventoux, also known as the giant of Provence. This legendary climb is a regular inclusion in the Tour de France and is a rewarding day long cycle ride with fabulous views of Provence from the top. Of course, there are also 'softer' adventures to be enjoyed in the area too; the charming village of Bedoin can be explored on a gentle 11km round cycle ride.

LE CHÂTEAU DES ALPILLES, PROVENCE Set in 7 hectares of beautiful mature gardens and parkland, this stunning property eminates oldworld charm. Gorgeous rooms (from the Old Wash House hidden in the palm trees, to the wonderfully grand castle rooms), fabulous outdoor dining and a beautiful pool.

CHÂTEAU DE MARÇAY, LOIRE An island of calm and serenity, this fairy-talestyle château hotel is built on the ruins of an 11th century fortress. Surrounded by orchards and grassy meadows, with gorgeous rooms, a renowned gourmet restaurant, tennis court and outdoor pool.

Dinner with a view at Crillon Le Brave

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BOOKING CONDITIONS 1. Your Holiday Contract When you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so.

2. Your Financial Protection We provide full financial protection for our package holidays.

1.

For flight-based holidays this is through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 4055.

Your Financial Protection When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is 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 the 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.

2.

When you buy a package holiday that doesn’t include a flight, protection is provided by our Financial Failure Insurance..

3. ABTA We are a Member of ABTA, membership number C6711. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of this contract. The scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It is a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you for costs. The upper limit on claims is £5,000 per person and £25,000 per booking form. The scheme doesn’t apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. It can however deal with claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday.

For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on .

4. Your Holiday Price a. We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown in our brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the holiday that you wish to book before your contract is confirmed. b. When you make your booking you must pay a deposit. The amount of deposit due will be confirmed at the time of booking. The balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be paid at least 10 weeks before your departure date. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit.

5. If You Change Your Booking If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking . You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £25 per person and any further cost we incur in making this alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel

34

arrangements (e.g. flights) may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

6. Travel Insurance It is an express condition of booking that you have adequate travel insurance and you must ensure that your insurance covers you for all the activities you undertake whilst on holiday. No liability will be accepted by Cycling for Softies for any clients travelling without adequate insurance.

7. If You Cancel Your Holiday You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time.

Written notification from the person who made the booking must be received at our offices. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows: Period before departure in which you notify us

Cancellation charge

More than 70 days Within 70 days Within 56 days Within 28 days

Deposit only 35% of holiday cost 80% of holiday cost 100% of holiday cost

Note: If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Note: Certain travel arrangements (e.g. flights) may not be able to be cancelled after a reservation has been made and any cancellation request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements irrespective of when it is made.

8. If We Change or Cancel Your Holiday As we plan your holiday arrangements many months in advance we may occasionally have to make changes or cancel your booking and we reserve the right to do so at any time.

Changes If we make a major change to your holiday, we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. In some cases we will also pay compensation (see below). These options don’t apply for minor changes. Examples of minor changes include alteration of your outward/return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same or higher standard, changes of carriers and alterations to the tour itinerary. Please note that carriers such as airlines may be subject to change.

Cancellation Very occasionally it may be necessary for us to cancel a specific departure or tour. We reserve the right to do this for any reason up to 10 weeks prior to the departure date. We will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. We may cancel your holiday before this date if, e.g., the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached. If your holiday is cancelled you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value).

Compensation If we cancel or make a major change we will pay compensation as detailed below except where the major change or cancellation arises due to reasons of force majeure. The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

Period before departure Amount you will receive from us in which we notify you More than 70 days More than 28 days More than 14 days Less than 14 days

nil £15 per person £25 per person £30 per person

Force Majeure We will not pay you compensation if we have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport.

9. If You Have A Complaint If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform the relevant supplier (e.g. your hotelier) or our representative immediately. If your complaint is not resolved locally, please follow this up within 28 days of your return home by writing to our Customer Services Department giving your booking reference and all other

relevant information. Please keep your letter concise and to the point. It is strongly recommended that you communicate any complaint to the supplier of the services without delay and complete a report form whilst in resort. If you fail to follow this simple procedure we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify your complaint whilst you were in resort and this may affect your rights under this contract. Please also see clause 3 above on ABTA. 10. Our Liability to You If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed by us or our suppliers we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. However we will not be liable where any failure in the performance of the contract is due to: you; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel arrangements and where the failure is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall. Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of 2 times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to a. The contractual terms of the companies that provide the transportation for your travel arrangements. These terms are incorporated into this contract; and b. Any relevant international convention, for example the Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail and the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, which limit the amount of compensation that you can claim for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of compensation contained in these or any conventions.

You can ask for copies of the transport companies’ contractual terms, or the international conventions, from our offices. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. However reimbursement in such cases will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted.

NB this clause does not apply to any separate contracts that you may enter into for excursions or activities whilst on holiday.

If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the service 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.

11. Prompt Assistance in Resort If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances.

12. Passport, Visa and Immigration Requirements Your specific passport and visa requirements, and other immigration requirements are your responsibility and you should confirm these with the relevant Embassies and/ or Consulates. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements.

13. Excursions Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator.

14. Protective Cycle Headwear The availability of protective cycle headwear can vary from destination to destination, and therefore we cannot guarantee availability. We strongly advise that those partaking in cycle activities bring their own protective headwear.

CYCLING FOR SOFTIES BOOKING FORM 2017 For advice and to book your holiday, call us on 020 7471 7760 or complete the booking form below.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR CYCLING FOR SOFTIES HOLIDAY 1. Read the Booking Conditions carefully (available at www.cyclingforsofties.com).

2. Fill in your holiday details on the Booking Form and sign it.

3. You may telephone us at this stage to confirm availability of your chosen departure date.

We will take down a few details and guarantee your places, provided your Booking Form and payment reach us within five working days. We accept VISA and MasterCard, and you may fully guarantee your reservation at this stage using your credit or debit card.

4. Send the Booking Form to us with a cheque, or with authorisation for us to debit your credit or debit card, for your deposit of £250 per person, or, if within ten weeks of departure, for the full payment.

Cheques should be made payable to BSpoke Tours.

5. Your booking is accepted by us when we issue and send to you a confirmation invoice.

This will detail all the holiday arrangements reserved for you. Please check these details carefully and contact us if you notice any discrepancies.

6. Full payment should reach us no later than eight weeks prior to the start of your holiday.

7. Pre-departure pack and itinerary will then be issued to you 3-4 weeks prior to your departure.

Passports: please ensure all those named on the Booking Form have a valid passport.

If you are not travelling on a European Union passport, please check your visa requirements.

Please complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS and return to: Cycling for Softies, Battersea Studios, 80 Silverthorne Road, London SW8 3HE Please reserve

places on your Tour to (please state tour name)

departing on

days

Tour duration

SURNAME (as on passport)

FIRST NAME (as on passport)

Please start with signatory of booking form and bracket together people sharing rooms

TITLE

ROOM TYPE

(Mr/Mrs/Miss/ other)

(Single/double/ twin/triple)

D.O.B.

DETAILS FOR BIKES Height

Tick if ladies frame required

Please indicate bicycle required*

1.

2.

3.

4.

If there are more than 4 people in your booking, please supply their details on a separate sheet. *Bicycle equipment options: Standard Trekking Bicycle (TREK), Child Bicycle (CB), Electric Bicycle (EB), Trailer Bicycle (TRAIL), Child Seat (CS).

PAYMENT DETAILS

On behalf of all the above named persons, I have read, understand and agree to Cycling for Softies Booking Conditions. I am over 18 years of age.

DEPOSIT (bookings more than 10 weeks before departure):

(no. of) deposits @ £250pp

FULL PAYMENT (bookings less than 10 weeks before departure): for

(no. of) people @ £

PAYMENT BY CHEQUE ENCLOSED (payable to BSpoke Tours)

PAYMENT BY CARD:

£ pp £

Date

Print name

Address

CARD DETAILS: I wish to pay by card (VISA/MasterCard). Please charge to my account: Debit card

Signed

Credit card (please note, payments by credit card will incur a 2.75% surcharge)

Card number

Postcode

Expiry date

Tel. (day)

Start date (if it appears on your card)

CVV number

Tel. (evening)

(last 3 digits on signature s trip of your card)

Issue no. (if it appears on your card)

Mobile Email

Signed

Name (on card)

TRAVEL: Please indicate self-drive, train, independent travel or preferred departure airport:

Cycling for Softies is a trading division of Ski Solutions Ltd.

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020 7471 7760 info@cyclingforsofties.com www.cyclingforsofties.com Battersea Studios, 80 Silverthorne Road, London SW8 3HE

WANT AN EVEN WIDER RANGE OF HOLIDAYS? WHY NOT TRY OUR SISTER COMPANY BSPOKE CYCLING AND WALKING HOLIDAYS 32 TOURS IN NINE COUNTRIES F R A N C E | I TA LY | P O R T U G A L GERMANY | CROATIA | AUSTRIA S W I T Z E R L A N D | S PA I N

|

SLOVENIA

V i s i t www. bspo k et o ur s. co m or call 020 7471 7750

Cycling for Softies is a trading division of Ski Solutions Ltd.