discovery bicycle tours 2014 catalog

“We have been on a number of bike trips and honestly, Discovery Bicycle Tours is heads above the rest. We now know that we will not go with anyone else!”

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C H A N G E S E R V I C E R E Q U E S T E D


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UNITED STATES • CANADA • EUROPE

www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com 800-257-2226 802-457-3553 [email protected]

Steve and Peggy Nichalson

2014 TOURSInn-to-Inn Bicycling Vacations

Celebrating our 38th year!

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OverviewHello from Larry and Dawn . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Tour Leaders and Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Vermont 6-Day ToursLake Champlain/Grand Isle . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Northeast Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Three Rivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Vermont Discovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Vermont Lake & Leisure . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Vermont 4-Day ToursNorth Hero House/Champlain Islands.. . 18

Weekend Getaways: Vermont /MarylandNorth Hero House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Norwich Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

October Country Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Shoreham Inn.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Brampton Inn, Chestertown, MD . . . . . . 24

Photo Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

California Wine and Coast . . . . . . . . . . 26

Cape Cod/Martha’s Vineyard . . . . . . . . 28

Coast of Maine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Eastern Shore of Maryland . . . . . . . . . . 32

Ireland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Italy, Tuscany. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Italy, Puglia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Quebec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Scotland .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Spain .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Custom and Private Tours . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Shuttle Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

General Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Schedule and Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

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Where one great turn...leads to another!

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www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com

Hello friends of Discovery Bicycle Tours!

Thanks first for the great response to our name change and for a super 2013 season…one of our best ever! Of course our new name is just one of many changes we have made over the years but, changes and growth notwithstanding, we still feel our strength comes from being the “smaller, friendlier company,” a description we use as our daily guide in what we do and how we do it. “Friendlier”refers to our wonderful staff and leaders who take great pleasure in giving you their personal attention, sharing local knowledge and offering you helpful guidance. Friendlier is knowing that everyone here reads every feedback sheet (we receive several hundred each year) and that almost everyone gets a personal response from me. Friendlier is the way we decide on our policies, such as making sure our tours and prices are more singles-friendly than any other company, and our unique guarantee that if you sign up for a tour and later someone signs up for that same tour because of a “special discount” we have subsequently offered, you will automatically get that same discount. Friendlier is our cancellation policy, the most liberal we know of, and we never charge to switch tours, or tour dates, nor tag on those annoying administration fees. And, since we never like to disappoint, we rarely cancel a tour even if there are just a few people on it.

Being smaller than most of our competitors allows us to be super flexible, to personalize solutions and create great individualized experiences. Being smaller guarantees that we know every mile of every tour and are happy to talk about them, and that our shop manager takes a personal interest in making sure your bike is comfortable and fits you properly. Being smaller assures you that we make the effort to offer true inn-to-inn experiences (rather than routinely building in extensive van transfers). And, perhaps most tangible, being smaller allows us to keep our prices much lower than most of our competition while providing the service and experiences that we think (with a modicum of prejudice!) are the very best.

So “smaller and friendlier” is not just a motto…it is who we are! Hope to see you on tour in 2014! Larry and Dawn Niles

Where one great turn...leads to another!

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breathebreathebreathe

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www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com

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We do all the organizing, scout out the best possible routes, make the reservations, transport your luggage, and see to all the details that make your vacation

stress-free. Your job is to enjoy yourself, relax, and engage your senses. Bicycling is part

of your experience, of course, and you will surely be enthralled with the spectacular views,

handsome churches, historic sites, and quaint villages. Equal to these larger sensations will

be those special experiences and discoveries...the snapping bright taste of an apple you just

picked, the sweet smells of a Vermont maple sugarhouse, watching seagulls dive around a

passing lobster boat, sipping local wine while relaxing in a small Italian piazza, or taking

a leisurely walk on a quiet dirt road after a wonderful dinner. With our nearby support

van to carry luggage, purchases, water, supplies, or even you, the road is never too long or

the riding too difficult. Our enthusiastic and knowledgeable tour leaders are always there

for that bit of advice or to lend a hand. Each evening you’ll end your day at a wonderful

country inn, small hotel or restaurant that will cater to your senses and your palate with a

delicious dinner, spirited conversation and comfortable accommodations.

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“The best thing you did was to give us two amazing tour guides. They were so knowledgeable about the tour and cycling in

general. They anticipated our needs and made sure everything went perfectly.”

“The leaders made the trip stand out! They were smart, fun, knowledgeable and were always there to make everything right!”

Here are a few of our many wonderful tour leaders!Toni Elisa

Tom Nick and Amanda

Sandra Mason

Jan and Dave Conroy

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“We imagine all the tour leaders are great, but we would be willing to bet

ours were two of the BEST! They were great historians who always had

interesting bits of information to share along the way. Both were very

nice, personable, and interesting people. We loved this trip and would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. We couldn't be happier!”

Meg Erik Heather

RositaBill Wally

Cindy

Lesley Etheridge and Joseph Davenport

Sandra Mason

Jan and Dave Conroy

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Bike along the shores of beautiful Lake Champlain v Ride into Canada v Explore Burlington and cycle along the renowned Burlington Bike Path v Ferry to historic Essex, NY v Visit two wineries and enjoy an afternoon of kayaking

Every day on this spectacular tour includes leisurely lakeside cycling and awe-inspiring views of Lake Champlain, the sixth largest (and surely one of the loveliest) lakes in the U.S. We begin by enjoying peaceful landscapes as we ride

to Charlotte, then cross by ferry to ride through the historic village of Essex, New York. Tuesday we enjoy stunning views of the Green and Adirondack Mountains as we bike along the renowned Burlington Bike Path before taking a bike ferry to the Champlain Islands. This 27-mile-long chain of islands is linked to the mainland by a series of causeways and includes a labyrinth of quiet lakeshore roads that wander along the water’s edge, passing through rural farmland and peaceful villages. Our easy cycling includes a visit to Vermont’s oldest settlement at Fort Saint Anne (and the Saint Anne Shrine), to the oldest log cabin in the nation, and to the quarry at Chazy Reef where the oldest fossils in the world are located. We visit Snow Farm Vineyard and ride north into Canada (bring your passport!). Thursday even includes an afternoon of professionally guided kayaking along the quiet shores of the lake.

The inns on this tour are as wonderful as the biking. We spend our first two nights at the Lang House in Burlington, a handsome 19th-century Victorian inn close to the beautiful campus of the University of Vermont. Our last three nights we stay at the historic North Hero House. This lakeside inn is a local favorite that provides lovely rooms and three Diamond dining. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

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6 - D a y / 5 - N i g h t M i d w e e k T o u r

Lake Champlain/Grand Isle Starting at $1695 and includes free use of bikes!

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Lake Champlain/Grand Isle


“The trip was everything that I had hoped it would be! Nice B&B’s, fantastic food, great bike routes and the best tour guides! And I also had a great group to ride with!” Denise Dorin

6-DAY/5-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOURArrive Sunday • Depart Friday

Prices and Dates$1695 June 1–6 $1895 July 27–Aug . 1, Aug . 17–22, Aug . 31–Sept . 5, Sept . 21–26, Sept . 28–Oct . 3

CyclingSun . Arrival dayMon . 24 or 39 mi . (39 or 63 km)

Easier to IntermediateTues . 33 mi . (53 km) EasierWed . 25 or 46 mi . (41 or 75 km) EasierThurs . 31 or 34 mi . and kayaking

(50 or 55 km .) EasierFri . 19 mi . (31 km .) EasierInnsLang House, Burlington (Sun . & Mon .)North Hero House, North Hero (Tues ., Wed . & Thurs .)Single TravelersSupplement for guaranteed private room (when available): $435

Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $215 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .

Included are 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts, 4 dinners, professionally guided kayaking, and free use of bikes . You are on your own for dinner one night in Burlington . Free taxi to starting inn provided . See Page 47 for details .

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Starting at $1695 and includes free use of bikes!

Northeast Kingdom

Tour Vermont’s rural Northeast corner v Enjoy a glorious day of riding in Canada v Explore villages such as Stowe, Montgomery and Greensboro v Tour Cabot’s Cheese factory v Visit quintessential country stores v Our most energetic tour

towe, Canada, Caspian Lake, Greensboro and Vermont’s famous Northeast Kingdom...this tour has it all! We begin near the sophisticated village of Stowe and then cycle through Smuggler’s Notch into the meandering Lamoille River Valley.

We then explore Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, the least settled and most rural, untouched corner of our state. We parallel the Missisquoi River as we cycle part of a rail trail, and enjoy a wonderful mix of sunny farmland, shaded forest and quiet wetlands. We bike through

international customs to spend a day riding in Canada (must bring your passport!) enjoying lunch in the historic village of Frelighsburg, then cycling through beautiful apple orchards and farms on our way back into the United States. We also include visits to some quintessential Vermont villages such as Montgomery, Greensboro, and Irasburg; stop at some wonderful old-fashioned stores; have a beautiful, optional ride to Lake Willoughby; and include a tour of the Cabot Creamery, “makers of the best cheddar in the world.” All of this superb cycling is enjoyed while staying at three lovely inns. The Edson Hill Manor has a warm, country feel and the Phineas Swann Inn is a fully restored romantic inn that recently earned acclaim as Vermont’s B&B of the year. We stay our last two nights at the Lakeview Inn, a supremely welcoming and relaxing inn that is within an easy walk of “downtown” Greensboro and beautiful Caspian

Lake. You will surely find the somewhat longer and more energetic days on this tour are delightful, and well worth the effort. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

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6-DAY/5-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOURArrive Sunday • Depart FridayPrices and Dates$1695 June 15–20$1795 July 20–25, Aug . 10–15, Aug .17–22, Sept . 7–12, Sept . 28–Oct . 3, Oct . 5–10

CyclingSun . Arrival dayMon . 49 or 62 mi . (79 or 100 km)

Intermediate to AdvancedTues . 30, 41 or 61 mi . (49, 66 or 98 km) Intermediate to AdvancedWed . 59 or 73 mi . (96 or 119 km)

Intermediate to AdvancedThurs . 32, 42 or 51 mi (52, 68, or 83 km)

IntermediateFri . 36 mi . (58 km) Intermediate

InnsEdson Hill Manor, Stowe (Sun .)Phineas Swann Inn, Montgomery Center (Mon . & Tues .)Lakeview Inn, Greensboro (Wed . & Thurs .)

Single TravelersSupplement for guaranteed private room (when available): $310


Included are 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts , 5 dinners, and free use of bikes . Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .

“This is our sixth tour, and as always, your efforts are excellent! You folks have always been the friendliest, whether in the office or on tour. The leaders were at their best the whole week.”

Joe and Karen Waid

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Starting at $1695 and includes free use of bikes!6 - D a y / 5 - N i g h t M i d w e e k T o u r

Three Rivers

Visit Norwich, Quechee, Hanover, Lyme and Woodstock Follow along quiet roads andbeautiful rivers Enjoy a tasting at a local microbrewery Visit King Arthur Flour Baker’sStore and the Billings Farm and Museum Picnic on the shores of Silver Lake Enjoy threevery different and superb small inns

This tour offers the best of rural river-side cycling plus the opportunity to explore thewonderful small shops and attractions offered by some of Vermont’s loveliest villages.We begin in Norwich, home to some of the country’s most handsome Federalist build-

ings and a lovely green, as well as Dan and Whit’s, a genuine Vermont country store thathas been serving the community since 1891. On Monday we ride through Hanover, home toDartmouth College, and then ride along the Connecticut River to Lyme. From here we crossa covered bridge that leads us past Orford’s famous row of magnificent Federal-style RidgeHouses and loop around Lake Morey on our way back to Norwich, where we are treated to atasting of their own in-house beers. Tuesday we can start our ride with a visit to King ArthurBakery store, then follow the White River before wending our way to Quechee. Here we watchthe glass blowing at the famous Simon Pearce glassworks, shop among the various craft andantique stores, and buy some local wine and Cabot’s cheese. We also visit dramatic QuecheeGorge where the adventurous might opt for a hike down to the river’s edge. Wednesdayfeatures a leisurely ride along the Ottauquechee River, passing the beautiful Taftsville coveredbridge before arriving in Woodstock, widely considered one of the prettiest villages in thecountry. This is Woodstock’s Farmer’s Market day so the beautiful green is bustling with localfarmers and crafts people selling their goods. You will also have plenty of time to stroll throughthis elegant village with its shops, galleries, bookstores and handsome churches. Thursday’sriding takes us into the rolling hills of Barnard where we enjoy a lovely picnic along onthe shores of Silver Lake and take an optional ride along North Road before returning toWoodstock where we include a guided tour of the superb Billings Farm and Museum. Our lastday we ride through Pomfret and some of the most beautiful countryside in Vermont, endingwith a long easy descent to the White River. For a more detailed daily description please visitwww.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

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NEW ROUTESNEW INN

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“We loved everything about the tour. ἀis was one of the best vacations we have ever had!” Madge Rothenberg & Peter Brodfuehrer

NEW ROUTESNEW INN


Prices and Dates$1695 June 29–July 4 $1795 July 13–18, Aug . 3–8, Sept . 14–19,

Oct . 5–10CyclingSun . Arrival dayMon . 31 or 36 mi . (50 or 58 km)

Easier to IntermediateTues . 21 or 39 mi . (34 or 63 km) Easier Wed . 9 or 30 mi . (15 or 49 km) EasierThurs . 21 or 35 mi . (34 or 57 km)

IntermediateFri . 19 or 25 mi . (31 or 41 km) Easier to IntermediateInnsNorwich Inn, Norwich (Sun . & Mon .)The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm, Quechee (Tues .) - *NEW INN!The Woodstocker, Woodstock (Wed . & Thurs .)Single TravelersSupplement for guaranteed private room (when available): $225Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $110 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .

Included are 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts and 4 dinners . You are on your own for dinner one night in Woodstock . Free use of bikes . Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .

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Cycle along the Otter Creek and past rolling farmland Cross Lake Champlain by ferry andhave a guided tour of Fort Ticonderoga Visit Middlebury Tour the Morgan Horse FarmEnjoy a beer tasting at the Otter Creek Brewery Visit Lake Champlain Maritime MuseumRide out to Button Bay

This re-designed easier tour combines beautiful cycling with plenty of time toslow down and enjoy all the things that make Vermont special. Monday weride through quiet farmland to the pretty village of Orwell, stop at Norton’s

Gallery (with his world famous whimsical wood carvings) and then bike down to theshores of Lake Champlain. Here we take a short scenic ferry ride over to historic FortTiconderoga. Ticonderoga was the site of several historic battles during the AmericanRevolution and our tour guide will assuredly regale us with tall tales about Vermont’siconic hero Ethan Allen. Tuesday we enjoy spectacular vistas and rural scenery as wecycle to Brandon, a village of tree-shaded streets and a marvelous mix of Federal,Greek Revival and Victorian homes. The more energetic might opt for a furtheradventure by riding from here up to the panoramic views on Brandon Gap.Wednesday includes a stop along the shores of beautiful Lake Dunmore before arrivingin Middlebury, our home for the last two nights. Plan to arrive early enough to enjoyan included tasting event at Otter Creek Brewery and a leisurely stroll exploring thishandsome town and the campus of Middlebury College. On Thursday we cross thePulp Mill Covered Bridge, pass the Morgan Horse Farm, and follow the Otter Creekto the “city” of Vergennes, and to beautiful Button Bay on Lake Champlain. Here weenjoy spectacular views across the lake to the majestic Adirondack mountains. Our lastday’s ride takes us through the college campus into lush rolling farmland and passingsome of Vermont’s finest apple orchards before we arrive back in Shoreham. For a moredetailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.



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Vermont Discovery NEW ROUTESNEW INN

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Prices and Dates$1695 June 22–27$1795 July 13–18, Aug . 10–15, Aug . 24–29, Sept . 21–26, Oct . 5–10, Oct . 12–17

CyclingSun . Arrival dayMon . 24 or 34 mi . (39 or 55 km) EasierTues . 30 or 40 mi . (49 or 65 km)

IntermediateWed . 23 or 38 mi . (37 or 62 km) EasierThurs . 26 or 40 mi . (42 or 65 km)

Easier to IntermediateFri . 17 mi . (28 km) Easier

InnsShoreham Inn, Shoreham (Sun . & Mon .)Lilac Inn, Brandon (Tues .)Swift House Inn, Middlebury (Wed . & Thurs .) *NEW INN!

Single TravelersSupplement for guaranteed private room (when available): $195Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $95 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund thisamount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .

Included are 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts and 4 dinners . You are on your own for dinner one night in Middlebury . Free use of bikes . Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .


“This tour was amazing and everything I was looking for in a biking adventure. Thank you for the wonderful memories.” Tracy Gorny

NEW ROUTESNEW INN

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Enjoy three nights at the superb Basin Harbor Club Ride along the leisurely ChamplainValley Kayak through a wildlife management area Enjoy a scenic evening cruise exploringthe lake Visit the fascinating Shelburne Museum Enjoy the Green Mountain Inn in theheart of beautiful Stowe Village Ride to Lake Elmore and Moss Glen Falls

This newly revised tour includes a superb mix of lakeside cycling, rural farmlandand small villages, and features stays at two of Vermont’s finest destination resorts.Our rides take us along the beautiful Champlain Valley, an area rich in history and

defined by gently rolling countryside and panoramic views of the Green and Adirondackmountains. We include a delightful evening cocktail cruise on Lake Champlain, a

leisurely guided kayaking adventure, and a ferry trip tohistoric Essex, New York. On the last two days we move“inland” to Stowe where we ride Randolph Road throughMorrisville and picnic on the shores of Lake Elmore. Ourfinal day includes a ride along the Stowe bike path includinga short hike out to beautiful Moss Glen Falls.

This tour is designed to let you relax and enjoy yoursurroundings. We stay three nights at the Basin HarborClub, a 700-acre resort that commands a stunning locationon Lake Champlain. Here we can stroll the beach, takeadvantage of the full spa services, follow nature trails, playa round of golf, or just unwind. Our last two evenings westay in the beautiful village of Stowe where we will find anincredible array of sophisticated shops and galleries, andwhere the immensely popular Green Mountain Inn treats us

to a perfect blend of country ambiance and the modern comforts of an exceptional resort.For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

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Vermont Lake & Leisure NEWROUTES

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“Every aspect of the tour was perfect and the entire experience was my ‘favorite moment.’ I think we’ve started an annual event.” Mary Anzano

NEWROUTES

6-DAY/5-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOURArrive Sunday • Depart FridayPrices and Dates$1795 June 8–13$1995 July 6–11, July 20–25, Aug. 17–22,

Sept. 14–19, Oct. 5–10 CyclingSun. Arrival dayMon. 37 mi. (60 km) Easier to Intermediate Tues. 27 or 32 mi. (44 or 52 km) Easier to

IntermediateWed. 26 or 35 mi. (42 or 57 km) Easier to

Intermediate Thurs. 21, 29 or 39 mi. (34, 47 or 63 km)

EasierFri. 11 mi. (18 km) Easier

InnsBasin Harbor Club, Vergennes (Sun., Mon., and Tues.)Green Mountain Inn, Stowe (Wed. and Thurs.)


Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $225. This will only be retained if you end up in a private room. Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room. See p. 48 #7 for full explanation.

Included are 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts, 4 dinners, (you are on your own for Wednesday’s dinner in Stowe), a wine and cheese reception, an evening cocktail cruise, a guided kayaking adventure, the ferry to Essex, New York, and a visit to Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. Free use of bikes. Free shuttle provided. See Page 47 for details.

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Bike through the spectacular scenery of Lake Champlain v Ride into Canada v

Relax with a wine tasting v Explore Hero’s Welcome Country Store v Cycle along miles of lakeshore to historic Isle La Motte

I t seems almost unfair that Vermont, so spectacular with its hills and valleys, should also have its western boundary defined by Lake Champlain, surely one of the most lovely lakes in the country. Our tour

of the Champlain Islands takes full advantage of this wealth of beauty. Connected by causeways to the rest of Vermont, these islands are blessed with a unique combination of exceptional rural scenery that you enjoy while cycling along quiet lakeshore roads with unsurpassed views of the Green and Adirondack mountains.

Our biking takes us along the western shore of the lake to a wine tasting at Snow Farm Vineyards. We take a spectacular ride out on a former railway causeway that extends over a mile into the lake before looping back on the easterly shore. We ride over Alburg Passage and down West Shore Road to Alburg Dunes State Park and include a lovely loop ride into Canada (bring your passport!). Friday’s easy cycling takes us to Isle La Motte, where we visit Saint Anne’s Shrine and the site of a French fort built in 1666. On this tour we are guests at the historic North Hero House. Built over a century ago, this lakeside inn has long been a local favorite and provides comfortable rooms and excellent dining while still maintaining its essential old-fashioned character and charm. For a more

detailed daily description please visit www DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.


North Hero House/ Champlain Islands

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4-DAY/3-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOURArrive Tuesday • Depart Friday Prices and Dates$795 June 10–13, June 17–20$845 July 8–11, July 22–25, July 29–Aug . 1, Aug . 12–15, Aug . 26–29, Sept . 30–Oct . 3, Oct . 7–10

CyclingTues . Arrival dayWed . 38 mi . (62 km) EasierThurs . 25, 28 or 47 mi . (41, 45 or 76 km)

EasierFri . 26 mi . (42 km) Easier

Inn North Hero House, North Hero



Included are 3 nights lodging, 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners, wine tasting, and free use of bikes .

4-DAY/3-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOUR

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4-DAY/3-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOURArrive Tuesday • Depart Friday Prices and Dates$795 June 10–13, June 17–20$845 July 8–11, July 22–25, July 29–Aug. 1, Aug. 12–15, Aug. 26–29, Sept. 30–Oct. 3, Oct. 7–10

CyclingTues. Arrival dayWed. 38 mi. (62 km) EasierThurs. 25, 28 or 47 mi. (41, 45 or 76 km)

EasierFri. 26 mi. (42 km) Easier




Included are 3 nights lodging, 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners, wine tasting, and free use of bikes.


Our Weekend Getaways!

Discovery Bicycle tours offers wonderful weekend experiences throughout Vermont and on the

Eastern Shore of Maryland. These very popular weekends are ideal romantic getaways or a great way to reconnect with a group of special friends. We offer free use of our bikes so all you need to do is get in your car or hop on a train or plane and show up at the starting inn.

These weekend tours are also perfect for small private groups (minimum of 6) and we can run them for you on any weekend you choose (no extra cost!). In addition to Vermont and Maryland we also have a beautiful weekend we can offer as a custom tour on Martha’s Vineyard.

Pages 20-24Vermont and Maryland

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3-DAY/2-NIGHT WEEKEND TOUR Arrive Friday • Depart Sunday Prices and Dates $545 June 13–15, June 27–29,$595 July 4–6, July 11–13, July 25–27,

Aug . 8–10, Aug . 22–24, Sept . 12–14, Oct . 3–5, Oct . 10–12

CyclingFri . Arrival daySat . 38 mi . (62 km) EasierSun . 26 mi . (42 km) Easier




Included are 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts,2 dinners, wine tasting, and free use of bikes .

Bike along the spectacular shores of Lake Champlain v Visit Snow Farm Winery v Explore Hero’s Welcome Country Store v Cycle to Alburg Dunes and to historic Isle La Motte v Relax at your lakeside inn

L ake Champlain is the sixth largest lake in the U.S., but what really makes it so special is the unspoiled natural beauty of its shoreline, and the unsurpassed views across the lake to

the Green and Adirondack mountains. Connected by bridges and causeways to the rest of Vermont, the Champlain Islands are blessed with a unique combination of exceptional rural scenery and farmland that you enjoy while cycling along quiet lakeshore roads that wander along the water’s edge.

Saturday’s easy cycling begins with a delightful ride along the western shore of the lake. We stop for a wine tasting at Snow Farm Vineyard followed by an awe-inspiring ride along a former railway causeway that extends over a mile into the lake. Sunday’s ride takes us over Alburg Passage and across a small bridge to Isle La Motte, the site of a French fort built in 1666, and Saint Anne’s Shrine. We also have the option to ride out to Alburg Dunes State Park. Sometime during your stay, you will want to visit Hero’s Welcome General Store, the local community gathering place and purveyors of an eclectic mix of baked goods, local arts and rugged necessities.

On this weekend we are guests at the historic North Hero House. Built over a century ago, this lakeside inn has long been a local favorite and provides comfortable rooms and excellent dining while still maintaining its essential old-fashioned character and charm. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

North Hero HouseStarting at $545 and includes free use of bikes!

WEEKEND TOUR!

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This tour explores the lovely scenery, exquisite villages, and prosperous farmland of the meandering Connecticut River Valley. Your home for the two nights is the Norwich Inn.

Norwich is a lovely village famous for its brick and clapboard Federal-style homes, and the inn has been its centerpiece since it started serving travelers in 1797. The inn has wonderfully comfortable rooms, large cozy common areas, a superb pub, and excellent dining. They even make their own handcrafted English ales on premises. Saturday’s ride takes us through the small village of Etna, through Hanover Center to Lyme. Lyme has an exceptionally beautiful town common surrounded by historic buildings, including a 200-year-old Congregational Church. From here we will ride down to the edge of the Connecticut River and bike along lovely River Road into Hanover. Hanover is a vibrant town with a great array of fine shops and craft

galleries and is the home of picturesque Dartmouth College. You will also want to visit the great bakery store run by King Arthur Flour, the friendly locally owned Norwich Bookstore, and Dan and Whit’s, a quintessential Vermont country store. Sunday we ride along the Vermont side of the Connecticut River, visiting beautiful Thetford Center and crossing the Union Village covered bridge before taking a view-filled ridge ride back to the inn. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

Norwich Inn

3-DAY/2-NIGHT WEEKEND TOURArrive Friday • Depart Sunday

Prices and Dates$575 June 20–22, Aug . 8–10, Aug . 15–17, Sept . 5–7$595 July 11–13, Sept . 19–21, Sept . 26–28

CyclingFri . Arrival daySat . 37 mi . (60 km) Easier to IntermediateSun . 14 or 23 mi . (23 or 37 km)

Easier to Intermediate

Inn Norwich Inn, Norwich



Included are 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners and free use of bikes .

Stay in the historic village of Norwich v Ride along the Connecticut River v Cross covered bridges v Visit Lyme and Orford v Explore Hanover and the beautiful Dartmouth College campus v Enjoy handcrafted beer made at the inn


North Hero House WEEKEND TOUR!

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Bike along the Ottauquechee River to Quechee Gorge v Visit historic Woodstock and Quechee v Visit three covered bridges v Tour the Simon Pearce glassworks and Billings Farm & Museum v Take a rural ride to Plymouth and the ancestral home of Calvin Coolidge

This tour features one of our most popular inns, plus superb cycling through lovely farmland, and such classic villages as Woodstock, Quechee, and Plymouth. At the October Country

Inn, Edie and Chuck Janisse are your welcoming hosts, and they will delight you with their creative cuisine. The inn is a converted rambling farmhouse with large, comfortable common rooms and lovely grounds where you can enjoy an evening walk or take a swim in the pool.

Saturday’s ride takes us along the Ottauquechee River, past covered bridges and into Woodstock. Often described as one of the prettiest villages in the country, Woodstock is renowned as an architectural showcase for early Federal-style buildings, as well as its lovely village green, tasteful shops, antique stores and galleries, and the fascinating Billings Farm and Museum. We then cycle into Quechee where we can shop for crafts and pottery, watch the glass blowing at Simon Pearce glassworks, and visit spectacular Quechee Gorge.

Sunday’s cycling takes us along Pinney Hollow Brook to the Plymouth Notch Historic District. This tiny hamlet was the childhood home of President Calvin Coolidge, and there are a number of interesting houses and exhibits, a beautifully restored church, a recreated general store, and the Plymouth Cheese Factory, maker of Julia Child’s favorite cheddar. From here we can enjoy an optional loop that takes us past Amherst and Echo Lakes. We then rejoin the standard route as we cycle north along the Black River, past lovely Woodward Reservoir, and down along the northerly branch of the Ottauquechee River back to the inn. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

Starting at $525 and includes free use of bikes!October Country Inn


Prices and Dates$525 May 23–25, June 27–29$575 July 4–6, July 25–27, Aug. 15–17,

Sept. 5–7, Sept. 19–21, Sept. 26–28, Oct. 3–5

Cycling Fri. Arrival daySat. 23, 32 or 48 mi. (37, 52 or 78 km) EasierSun. 19 mi. (31 km) Easier

Inn October Country Inn, Bridgewater Corners



Included are 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners and free use of bikes.

1-800-257-2226

WEEKEND TOUR!

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Visit Middlebury and Middlebury College v Ride to Larrabee’s Point on Lake Champlain v Tour the Morgan Horse Farm v Enjoy rural cycling through apple orchards and lovely farmland v Stay at a handsome historic inn

The area around Shoreham is perfect for cycling. It’s famous for its tidy apple orchards, grand views of Lake Champlain, pastures with grazing sheep and cows, and

the classic beauty and simplicity of the surrounding towns and villages. Mountains form the backdrop to our rides with the Green Mountains to the east and the impressive skyline of the Adirondacks rising over the lake to the west. It makes for a wonderfully varied experience of rural Vermont. Dominic and Molly Francis are our hosts at the beautifully restored Shoreham Inn. This former stagecoach inn has retained its fine country feel and essential 1790 Vermont character while comforts and amenities have been added that make our stay special. The dining room, with its exposed beams and open fireplace, exudes warmth and charm and sets the friendly atmosphere for delicious home-cooked meals. On our tour, we ride to Larrabee’s Point on Lake Champlain and cycle to the classic New England town of Middlebury. We also take a short side trip over a covered bridge to the University of Vermont’s Morgan Horse Farm, visit Norton’s Gallery and his world-renowned whimsical wood carvings, and ride through historic Orwell where we can picnic in the large gazebo that graces the village common. Add to all this wonderful cycling, the special warmth of the inn and the innkeepers, and you have a very memorable vacation indeed. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

Starting at $525 and includes free use of bikes!Shoreham Inn

3-DAY/2-NIGHT WEEKEND TOUR Arrive Friday • Depart Sunday

Prices and Dates $525 May 30–June 1, June 27–29$575 July 4-6 , July 18–20,

Aug . 1–3, Aug . 22–24, Sept . 26–28, Oct . 3–5,

Oct . 10–12

Cycling Fri . Arrival daySat . 34 or 37 mi . (55 or 60 km .)

Easier to IntermediateSun . 20 mi . (32 km .) Easier

Inn Shoreham Inn, Shoreham

Single travelersSupplement for guaranteed private room (when available): $60 Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $30 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .

Included are 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners and free use of bikes .

WEEKEND TOUR!

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Brampton Inn

Enjoy the beauty and history of Chestertown v Explore the fishing village of Rock Hall v Treat yourself to elegant accommodations in a country estate v Start your year off with easy cycling along the Chesapeake Bay v Ride through the beautiful Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge

This tour features easy cycling, historic towns, and one of the finest inns on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Our biking takes us into the riverfront village of Chestertown where its red-brick

sidewalks lead us along streets filled with specialty shops and antique galleries, and past grand Colonial homes.

We then follow the beautiful Chester River and pass through rolling farmland on our way to Rock Hall. This historic bayside fishing town (est. in 1707) still enjoys a vibrant maritime economy that supports numerous fishermen, oystermen and crabbers. Plan to have a great lunch at a local crab house and ride out the peninsula to Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. On our return we can take an optional ride out to Cliff City to enjoy another spectacular view of the bay and river.

On Sunday we cycle through the village of Still Pond to the beach at Betterton where we enjoy sweeping views of the Chesapeake, and then finish our ride along peaceful country roads that wind their way back to the inn.

The Brampton Inn is certainly a highlight of the weekend. Here we are treated to the grand elegance and comfort of an antebellum plantation estate complete with a magnificent wicker-filled wraparound porch, and elegant décor and antiques. Each beautifully decorated room is supremely comfortable, and mornings always begin with a superb breakfast in their sun-filled dining room. Please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com for a more detailed daily description.

$745 and includes free use of bikes!

WEEKEND TOUR!

Chestertown, Maryland


Price and Dates$745 May 2–4, May 9–11

Cycling Fri. Arrival daySat. 34, 41 or 56 mi. (55, 66 or 90 km) EasierSun. 19 or 35 mi. (31 or 57 km) Easier

Inn Brampton Inn, Chestertown, MD



Included are 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners and free use of bikes.

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Our tour invites you to experience spectacular vineyards, meandering roads, towering redwoods, and the dramatic blue shore of the Pacific (see photo page 4) as we explore California’s Northern Sonoma County, one of the

world’s premier bicycling destinations. We ride along wide valleys passing some of the most scenic vineyards imaginable. Following the thread of the famous Russian River Valley, we immerse ourselves in a forest of awe-inspiring ancient redwoods. Then, as a final celebration, we reach the beaches of Bodega Bay where we stand at the westerly edge of the country taking in dazzling views while being entertained by cavorting seals, migrating whales and nose-diving pelicans. This is, of course, California’s wine country and you will quickly understand why Trip Advisor named Sonoma as the best wine destination in the country.

There are literally hundreds of superb laid back family owned vineyards in and around our route, and we offer innumerable opportunities for visits, a sensation-filled experience even (or especially) for those of us whose wine interest is weekend casual. We are guests at four inns that are the very best and delight in Northern California cuisine inspired by local organic ingredients. And yet the essence of this tour is still the incomparable bicycling experience as we enjoy scenic roads winding through rural countryside, visit iconic small towns like Healdsburg, Guerneville, Graton and Occidental, and treat ourselves to beautiful vistas, redwood forests and the blue, blue ocean. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.


Starting at $2295 and includes free use of bikes!Spectacular vineyards v Meandering roads v Towering redwoods v Dramatic blue shore of the Pacific v One of the world’s premier bicycling destinations! v Superb dining and wine pairings included

California Wine and Coast

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“ἀis was an outstanding tour! From the daily bike routes to the superb inns, it was a great week and an excellent opportunity to experience Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard at its finest!”

Dave & Debbie Hamilton

6-DAY/5-NIGHT TOUR

Price and Dates$2295 March 16–21, April 27–May 2 $2495 May 4–9, June 1–6, July 13–18,

Aug . 17–22, Aug . 24–29, Aug . 31–Sept . 5, Sept . 28–Oct . 3, Oct . 5–10, Oct . 12–17

Cycling Sun Arrival day 13 mi . (21 km)

EasierMon 29, 39 or 45 mi . (47, 62, or 72

km) EasierTues 31 or 38 mi . (50 or 61 km)

Easier to IntermediateWed 31 or 39 mi . (50 or 63 km)

IntermediateThurs 30 mi . (48 km) Easier to

IntermediateFri 11 mi . (17 km)

Easier

Accommodations Madrona Manor, Healdsburg (Sun . & Mon .)Vintner’s Inn, Santa Rosa (Tues .)Inn at Occidental, Occidental (Wed .)Bodega Bay Lodge, Bodega Bay (Thurs .)



Included are 5 nights accommodations, 5 breakfasts, 4 dinners, (you are on your own for dinner one night in Occidental), 2 lunches, wine tasting, entry fees, free use of bikes . Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .


“Great leaders, inns, wine and tour! After 10+ tours, we have come to expect great rides, and you have exceeded yet again!” Sue Ann and Paul Bourbonniere

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This tour has everything! On the Cape we follow beach roads and a beautiful bikepath as we weave our way past salt marshes, cranberry bogs, wooded birdsanctuaries, barrier beaches and tidal flats filled with egrets, geese and ducks.

A scenic ferry ride takes us to Martha’s Vineyard and elegant Edgartown, acolonial seaport whose rows of handsome 18th-century houses are reminders of the greatwealth of the early whaler captains. Our gorgeous cycling takes us to Katama with itsbeautiful three mile barrier beach, and to historic West Tisbury. We visit Vineyard Haven,ride past historic West Chop Light and ride “up island” to the spectacular lookout atAquinnah Cliffs (formerly Gay Head). In the picturesque fishing village of Menemsha, webike down to the harbor and stroll along beautiful Menemsha Beach. And in Oak Bluffs,we explore famous labyrinthine streets lined with fanciful rainbow-colored gingerbreadcottages and visit the town’s antique Flying Horses Carousel. Our last day we can opt foran early morning ferry ride to Chappaquiddick before taking a pretty sea-side loop backto our inn.

Our two inns are excellent. On the Cape we stay at the charming Palmer House Inn,perfectly situated in the tree-lined historic district of Falmouth. Our home on Martha’sVineyard is the Jonathan Munroe House, a former sea captain’s mansion which has nowbecome a supremely comfortable boutique inn. For a more detailed daily descriptionplease visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.


Cape Cod/Martha’s Vineyard

Follow bike paths along Vineyard Sound and past cranberry bogs and tidal pondsVisit historic Woods Hole Enjoy the ferry ride to beautiful Martha’s Vineyard Stayin elegant Edgartown Visit cliffs at Aquinnah and the fishing village of MenemshaCycle by the fanciful cottages at Oak Bluffs

$1950 and includes free use of bikes!NEW INN

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“As expected from our past experience with you, this tour was fantastic! Great leaders, great people, excellent food and wonderful biking.” Rob and Debbie Schain

NEW INN


Price and Dates$1950 June 8–13, June 15–20, June 22–27,

Oct. 5–10

Cycling Sun. Arrival dayMon. 31 or 42 mi. (50 or 68 km) EasierTues. 20 or 26 mi. (32 or 42 km) plus ferry

ride. EasierWed. 35 mi. (57 km) Easier to IntermediateThurs. 29 or 34 mi. (47 or 55 km) Easier to

IntermediateFri. 11 mi. (18 km) Easier.

Ferry to Woods Hole and transfer to Falmouth

Inns Palmer House Inn, West Falmouth (Sun. & Mon.) *NEW INN Jonathan Munroe House, Edgartown (Tues., Wed. & Thurs.)



Included is the round trip ferry to Martha’s Vineyard and the ferry to Chappaquiddick, free use of bikes, 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts, 1 picnic, and 3 dinners. You are on your own for dinner two nights in Edgartown.

Free shuttle provided. See Page 47 for details.

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Cycle along the most breathtaking ocean scenery imaginable v Indulge in an authentic Down East lobster feast v Picnic by a lighthouse v Kayak along a secluded bay v Bike the gorgeous private carriage roads of Acadia National Park v Ferry to Swan’s Island v Enjoy the active seaside town of Bar Harbor

Whitewashed lighthouses perched on rocky shores, evergreen forests and open meadows, fresh seafood, artist galleries, whales, seals, ducks, geese and jabbering seagulls – these are images of a Maine that does, in fact, exist and

our tour takes you there.Our tour is based on Mount Desert, the third largest island on the eastern seaboard

(connected to the mainland by a bridge) and surely the best place for gentle cycling in all of Maine. Every day we enjoy breathtaking ocean scenery and exploring villages such as the boatbuilding center of Southwest Harbor, the yachting mecca of Northeast Harbor, and the commercial fishing village at Bass Harbor. We ferry to Swan’s Island where we cycle past picturesque Burntcoat Harbor on our way to a picnic at Hockamock Head Lighthouse. We also enjoy a morning of professionally guided kayaking along the quiet inlets of Pretty Marsh Harbor and a real “Down East” lobster feast. We ride into Acadia National Park, truly

a cyclist’s paradise. Miles of carriage roads wind gently through pine scented forests and lovely stands of beech and maple, curve around sparkling freshwater lakes, secluded ponds, then lead us out to magnificent seascapes along the Atlantic shoreline.

Finally, we enjoy all this while staying at two superb inns. We are guests at the renowned Claremont Hotel, located on lovely Sommes Sound, as well as at the Manor House Inn, a former 22-room mansion perfectly situated on a quiet tree-lined street that is only a short walk from “downtown” Bar Harbor with its multitude of stores, craft shops, museums, and galleries. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.



Coast of Maine

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Prices and Dates$1850 June 15–20, June 22–27$1995 July 6–11, July 13–18, July 27–Aug . 1, Aug . 3–8, Aug . 10–15, Aug . 17–22, Sept . 7–12, Sept . 14–19, Sept . 21–26, Sept . 28–Oct . 3Cycling Sun . Arrival dayMon . 31 mi . (50 km .) Easier to

IntermediateTues . 20, 31 or 40 mi . (32, 50 or 65 km) Easier

to IntermediateWed . 12, 22 or 30 mi . plus kayaking (19,

36 or 49 km .) Easier Thurs . 22 or 32 mi . (36 or 52 km .) EasierFri . 10 or 16 mi . (16 or 26 km .) Easier

Inns The Claremont Hotel, Southwest Harbor(Sun . & Mon .)The Manor House Inn, Bar Harbor(Tues ., Wed . & Thurs .)

Single TravelersSupplement for guaranteed private room (when available): $380Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $190 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .

Included are all ferries and excursions, professionally guided kayaking, free use of bikes, 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts, picnic on Swan’s Island, and 4 dinners . You are on your own one night in Bar Harbor .

Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .

“This was a perfect vacation. We have been on several Discovery Bicycle tours and each one seems to offer a new and different, but wonderful, surprise. Thank you!” Mary and Bodo Baltycki

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Eastern Shore of Maryland/ Chesapeake Bay

Celebrate springtime on the Tidewater Peninsula! Gorgeous easy biking awaits as we explore the bays and inlets of the Chesapeake Bay, wind our way by the many rivers, bays and estuaries that define this region, and stay in two

beautiful towns.The biking is wonderful. We follow one of the country’s premier biking routes,

taking quiet roads to beautiful Oxford and then crossing the Tred Avon River via the small Oxford-Bellevue Ferry. We enjoy a beautiful boat ride along the Chesapeake Estuary followed by a leisurely ride to Tilghman Island. We ride through the historic village of Unionville, by the “Little Red School House,” and enjoy a stunning day cycling through the Blackwater National Wildlife Preserve, a haven for bald eagles, osprey and thousands of ducks and geese.

The tour includes stays at two exceptional inns. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday we enjoy waterfront views from our rooms at the Harbour Inn in historic Saint Michaels (home of the fascinating Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum). Here, we enjoy wandering the streets lined with Colonial-era homes and enticing shops and strolling past the boat-filled marinas on the bay. Wednesday and Thursday we are in Easton as the privileged guests of the Bartlett Pear Inn, a supremely comfortable upscale boutique inn. Easton is often listed as one of the ten best small towns in America in part because of its beautifully preserved Colonial and Victorian architecture, and sophisticated shopping. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.


Visit historic Tidewater villages v Celebrate spring with easy coastal riding on quiet roads v Ride one of the nation’s premier bike loops v Stay in two exceptional inns v Take a scenic boat ride on the Chesapeake Estuary v Ride through Blackwater National Wildlife Preserve

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6-DAY/5-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOUR

Price and Dates$1950 May 4–9, May 11–16,

May 18–23 Cycling Sun . Arrival dayMon . 26 or 38 mi . (42 or 62 km) EasierTues . 18 mi . (29 km) Includes

excursion on Chesapeake Bay . Easier

Wed . 38 or 48 mi . (62 or 78 km) EasierThurs . 31 or 50 mi . (50 or 82 km)

Easier Fri . 24 or 29 mi . (39 or 47 km .) Easier

Inns Harbour Inn, Saint Michaels, MD (Sun ., Mon . & Tues .) Bartlett Pear Inn, Easton, MD (Wed . & Thurs .)


Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $175 . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .

Included are free use of bikes, 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts and 4 dinners . You are on your own one night in Easton . Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .

“Everything was wonderful! To top it all off, I rode with a great group of riders and made some great friendships along the way. Thanks for a vacation that I will put at the top of my list of all time favorites!”

Lark McCormick


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Visit the Cliffs of Moher v Ride along rugged coastlines v Enjoy ancient fishing villages, Stone Age ruins, medieval castles and thatched-roofed cottages v Take a guided tour of the “Burren” v Visit Doolin and lovely Kylemore Abbey v Ferry to the Aran Islands v Explore Connemara

I reland, especially the rural west, is a cyclist’s dream.” So says Bicycling magazine, and you will surely agree. An endless network of winding back roads leads us through ancient fishing villages, past thatched roof cottages, and green pastures dotted with

sheep. We ride along the ocean and past magical mist-covered mountains, and around every turn you are likely to come upon a medieval castle, Stone Age ruins, or the remains of an ancient cathedral. In addition, you are treated to three of the absolutely finest small hotels in Ireland, and we build in plenty of time for you to engage in the gentle pleasures of good local conversations while enjoying a bit of traditional Irish music at local pubs.

Our tour takes you on winding country roads out to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher and to Doolin, a mecca for traditional Irish music. We enjoy a spectacular coastal ride around Black Head and Galway Bay, a visit to the pretty fishing village of Ballyvaughan, and a ride through the heart of the “Burren,” where we are led on a fascinating walk by local guide Shane Connolly. A ferry ride takes us for a visit out to the Aran Islands while on other days we ride along the valleys of the Maamturk Mountains and past Killary Harbor and visit beautiful Kylemore Abbey. We follow the ocean along spectacular Skye Road, and visit handsome Clifden Castle as we enter Clifden – “the prettiest village in Connemara” – and a great place to shop for Irish linens, wool sweaters, Waterford crystal and local crafts. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

7 - D a y / 6 - N i g h t T o u r


Ireland

I“

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“Everything was wonderful! Most of us on this tour had been on trips with you before so that in itself speaks highly of Discovery Bicycle Tours! The scenery was beautiful; the accommodations were great; and we enjoyed the Irish sunshine!” Denise Jones

7-DAY/6-NIGHT TOURPrice* and Dates $2895 July 3–9, July 12–18, July 20–26

CyclingDay 1 Arrival day 16 mi . (26 km .) EasierDay 2 22 or 26 mi (36 or 42 km)

Easier to IntermediateDay 3 10 or 22 mi . (16 or 36 km) plus ferry

and visit to Aran Islands EasierDay 4 23 or 30 mi . (37 or 49 km .)

Easier to IntermediateDay 5 27 mi . (44 km .) Easier to IntermediateDay 6 32, 39 or 49 mi . (52, 63 or 80 km .)

Easier to IntermediateDay 7 Departure day

Accommodations Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan Rosleague Manor, Letterfrack Quay House, Clifden



Included are all ferries and excursions, free use of bikes, transfers to and from Shannon airport (see p . 47 for details), most entry fees, 6 nights lodging, 6 breakfasts and 5 dinners . You are on your own for one night in Clifden .

*Our prices are guaranteed regardless offluctuations in the value of the dollar inforeign currencies .

Please note that our Ireland tours have a minimum size of 6, and if we do not reach that minimum by March 15 the tour will, unfortunately, not run . Therefore, please be sure to check with the Discovery Bicycle Tours office as to the number of guests signed up for your requested Ireland tour before making any non-refundable flight or other reservations .


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Local guides lead you through small villages, lovely countryside, olive groves and vineyards v Enjoy a guided tour of Siena v Indulge in the finest Italian cuisine and a superb Brunello wine tasting v Visit serene Sant’Antimo and spectacular Banfi Castle v Explore Montepulciano v Enjoy a stay at one of Europe’s most luxurious 5-star spa hotels

This tour captures the essence of the Italian experience including visits to Siena, Montalcino, Pienza, Montepulciano and Bagno Vignoni. We have selected absolutely stunning accommodations and include superb meals, wine tastings and a personalized

walking tour of Siena. You will be led by talented, engaging and very experienced bilingual Italian guides, whose intimate knowledge and love of all things, places and people Italian will assure that your vacation is a visual, culinary, and cultural delight. We have taken great care to develop a tour that offers you the full pleasures of the enchanting Tuscan countryside as well as visits to a delightful collection of small villages and towns. We travel through vineyards, past olive groves, and along narrow ancient roads lined with cypress. We wander the narrow alleyways of medieval villages like Murlo, Montisi, Montepulciano and Castlemuzio; listen as the monks chant at Sant’Antimo; relive movie scenes from “The English Patient” as we stroll the grounds of Santa Anna in Camprena; delight in a visit to the elegant Castello Banfi Estate and vineyards; and spoil ourselves

on our last night at the luxurious 5-star spa hotel, Fonteverde. We are also the fortunate beneficiaries of the Italian obsession with all things culinary. Abundant regional produce, wild game, local mushrooms, olive oil, pecorino cheese, local truffles, and homemade pastas, all complemented with the finest local wines (and a superb wine tasting event!) assures that we will be treated to the finest regional cuisine imaginable. The hotels are exquisite. Each was carefully selected by us not only for its superior quality but also to ensure that you are always staying within the city walls so you can stroll the narrow streets, visit the shops, see the sights at your leisure, and immerse yourself in all the day-to-day Italian experiences that make this a

true adventure. Please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com for a more detailed daily description.

7 - D a y / 6 - N i g h t T o u r

Italy: Bike Tour of Tuscany $2895 and includes free use of bikes!

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www.BikeVermont.comwww.BikeVermont.com

“Everything was great. The accommodations were varied and in the heart of each town. The dinners were wonderful and authentically local, our tour guides were spectacular, and we especially liked the extra activities like the guided tour through Siena, wine tastings, Abbey stop, etc. This was my husband’s first cycling trip...and he left asking for more!”

7-DAY/6-NIGHT TOURPrice* and Dates $2895 May 17–23, Sept . 6–12,

Sept . 27 –Oct . 3

Cycling Day 1 Arrival day . Walking tour of SienaDay 2 26 or 34 mi (42 or 55 km)

IntermediateDay 3 22 or 34 mi . (36 or 55 km)

IntermediateDay 4 24 mi . (39 km .) IntermediateDay 5 30 mi . (49 km) IntermediateDay 6 28 mi . (45 km) IntermediateDay 7 Departure day

Accommodations Hotel Palazzo Ravizza, SienaHotel Vecchia Oliviera, MontalcinoHotel Relais Il Chiostro di Pienza, PienzaFonteverde Natural Spa Resort, San Casciano Dei Bagni


Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $195 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .Included are the coach transfer from Florence to Siena (if needed) (see p . 47 for details); guided walking tour of Siena; wine tasting (Brunello) in Montalcino; entry fees; transfers during the tour; facilitation of transfers to Rome or Florence at end of tour; free use of bikes; 6 nights lodging; 6 breakfasts; 4 dinners . You are on your own one night in Montalcino and one night in Pienza .

*Our prices are guaranteed regardless offluctuations in the value of the dollar inforeign currencies .


Susan and Al Fan

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This tour explores Puglia, a spectacular region in the south of Italy. Here the Ionian and Adriatic seas give us warm weather, blue-green crystal clear waters, and endless white sand beaches, while inland our easy cycling takes us past vast groves of gnarled olive trees,

green pastures with sheep and goats, yellow fields of wheat, and Italy’s largest and most beautiful vineyards. There is a wonderful variety of towns and villages with their grand medieval houses, ancient cathedrals and fortresses, and wonderful small squares and narrow streets surprising us with bits of Renaissance sculpture, tumbling flowers, and splashing fountains. And then there is

the food! Pugliese food is delightfully simple, local, and delicious and is often enjoyed with superb local wines. Enjoy the trademark orecchiette pasta (we are even treated to a pasta cooking demonstration), freshly caught fish, and local lamb—the centerpiece of many meals. And for lunch perhaps enjoy a simple bruschetta with arugula, homemade mozzarella and fresh tomatoes, a perfect Italian midday meal.

Our tour is a leisurely highlight reel of all these things that make Puglia so special. Each day combines perfect cycling (and daily additional options) with wonderful feasts, the very best accommodations, and visits to such places as Matera with its haunting ancient “sassi” district; Alberobello with its comical cone shaped houses called “trulli”; Ostuni the iconic “white city”;

serene and beautiful Santa Maria di Leuca; historic Otranto overlooking the Adriatic; and Baroque and beautiful Lecce, the “Florence of the south.” You will not want this tour to ever end! For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

Enjoy leisurely biking along clear blue seas v Wind your way through vineyards and olive groves v Indulge in the best of Italian food and wine, including a private cooking class and wine tasting v Take guided walking tours of ancient Matera and Lecce v Tour the caves of Castellana v Be led by superb Italian guides

Italy: Bike Tour of Puglia8 - D a y / 7 - N i g h t T o u r


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39www.BikeVermont.com

“The entire week was a dream come true! Everything was wonderful! The guides were super; the food was great; the accommodations were excellent. The scenery in Puglia was beautiful and seeing it from a bike was the best. It couldn’t have been a better vacation!” Linda Bell

8-DAY/7-NIGHT TOURPrice* and Dates $3195 May 5–12, Oct. 9–16

Cycling Day 1 Arrival day.Day 2 42 mi. (68 km) Easier to IntermediateDay 3 24 mi. (39 km)

Easier to IntermediateDay 4 26 mi. (42 km)

Easier to IntermediateDay 5 31 mi. (50 km) EasierDay 6 25 mi. (41 km)

Easier to IntermediateDay 7 32 mi. (52 km)

Easier to IntermediateDay 8 Departure day.

Accommodations Hotel Sant’Angelo, MateraTrulli e Puglia Resort, AlberobelloLa Sommita, OstuniHotel L’ Approdo, Santa Maria di LeucaHotel Palazzo Papaleo, OtrantoPatria Palace, Lecce


Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $245. This will only be retained if you end up in a private room. Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room. See p. 48 #7 for full explanation.Included are 7 nights accommodations, 7 breakfasts, 5 dinners (you are on your own one night in Ostuni and we have a late afternoon wine and cheese tasting in Otranto), transfer to and from Bari Airport (if needed) (see p. 47 for details), free use of bikes, a tour of the caves of Castellana, cooking demonstration in Alberobello, all entry fees, and all transfers during the tour.

*Our prices are guaranteed regardless offluctuations in the value of the dollar inforeign currencies.


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40 1-800-257-2226

This tour takes us through the beautiful French-speaking Eastern Townships of Quebec, and treats us to gorgeous vistas, pretty villages, spectacular easy-to-intermediate biking and excellent inns.

We begin our tour in Vermont, cycling past classic farms and covered bridges before entering the historic Canadian village of Frelighsburg where we begin to immerse ourselves in the culture and beauty of this unique area. We visit the Musee Missisquoi in Stanbridge East and the ancient twelve-sided Walbridge Barn in Mystic. We ride spectacular Chemin Gaspe, passing the beautiful equestrian facilities of the 1976 Olympiad. Much of our tour is along Quebec’s “Routes des Vins” allowing us several opportunities to visit some of Canada’s most celebrated vineyards, including L’Orpailleur and Domaine Les Brome. We ride along the dedicated bike paths of Quebec’s famous Route Verte, paralleling the shore of Lac Boivin and the majestic Choiniere in Parke Yamaska, and visit historic Bromont with its many shops and famous Musee de Chocolat.

Our tour includes stays at five superb and very different properties, including small boutique inns as well as the luxurious Hotel Chateau Bromont. We also get a chance to explore the celebrated resort towns of Knowlton and Sutton whose main thoroughfares are lined with bistros, specialty shops and galleries. We end our tour by riding through the tiny mountain community of Abercorn before re-entering the United States in Richford and cycling the last few miles along a bike path and winding road into Montgomery Center. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

6 - D a y / 5 - N i g h t M i d w e e k T o u r Quebec-Eastern Townships Starting at $1695 and includes free use of bikes!Cross the U.S. border into a beautiful area of French-speaking Canada v Enjoy wine tastings v Ride along the Route Verte v Visit Bromont and the Musee de Chocolat v Stay in five superb inns and small hotels

6-DAY/5-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOURPrice and Dates $1695 June 22–27$1895 June 29–July 4, July 13–18, July 27 –Aug . 1, Aug . 10–15, Aug . 24–29, Sept . 7–12, Sept . 21–26, Sept . 28–Oct . 3, Oct . 5–10Cycling Sun . Arrival dayMon . 33 or 40 mi . (53 or 65 km)

IntermediateTues . 46 mi . (75 km) Easier to IntermediateWed . 38 or 45 mi . (62 or 73 km) Easier to IntermediateThurs . 20, 33 or 50 mi . (32, 53 or 82 km) Easier Fri . 21 mi . (34 km) Easier

Accommodations Phineas Swann, Montgomery Center, Vermont (Sun .) Aux Douces Heures, Dunham, Quebec (Mon .) Chateau Bromont, Bromont, Quebec (Tues .)Auberge du Joli Vent, Lac Brome, Quebec (Wed .)Le Pleasant Hotel, Sutton, Quebec (Thurs .)


Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $175 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .Included are free use of bikes, all entry fees, 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts and 4 dinners . You are on your own for dinner one night in Bromont . Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .

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6-DAY/5-NIGHT MIDWEEK TOURPrice and Dates $1695 June 22–27$1895 June 29–July 4, July 13–18, July 27 –Aug . 1, Aug . 10–15, Aug . 24–29, Sept . 7–12, Sept . 21–26, Sept . 28–Oct . 3, Oct . 5–10Cycling Sun . Arrival dayMon . 33 or 40 mi . (53 or 65 km)

IntermediateTues . 46 mi . (75 km) Easier to IntermediateWed . 38 or 45 mi . (62 or 73 km) Easier to IntermediateThurs . 20, 33 or 50 mi . (32, 53 or 82 km) Easier Fri . 21 mi . (34 km) Easier

Accommodations Phineas Swann, Montgomery Center, Vermont (Sun .) Aux Douces Heures, Dunham, Quebec (Mon .) Chateau Bromont, Bromont, Quebec (Tues .)Auberge du Joli Vent, Lac Brome, Quebec (Wed .)Le Pleasant Hotel, Sutton, Quebec (Thurs .)


Supplement for single travelers willing to share a room: $175 . This will only be retained if you end up in a private room . Discovery Bicycle Tours will fully refund this amount if we find someone to share your room . See p . 48 #7 for full explanation .Included are free use of bikes, all entry fees, 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts and 4 dinners . You are on your own for dinner one night in Bromont . Free shuttle provided . See Page 47 for details .

“I loved this trip! Great routes, great inns, great leaders. It was a pleasure to bike on back roads in this rural area seeing the gorgeous views.” Bonnie Anderson

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Ride along the beautiful Tay River Valley v Picnic in Dunkeld v Visit ancient Duart Castle v Ride to Glen Shee and Huntington Tower v Ferry to the fabled Isle of Mull v Immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula v Spend some leisurely time exploring the colorfully painted harbor town of Tobermory

This tour treats you to the essence of all things Scottish: romantic castles, ancient villages, luxurious palace homes of dukes and barons, deep wandering lochs, soft wooded glens, spectacular seascapes, and lovely winding roads where we

are often the only travelers.We cycle along a superb network of country roads, visit the medieval village of

Dunkeld, follow hedgerows along the River Tay, and enjoy the magical views from Kenmore over historic Loch Tay. From the Central Highlands we take a scenic ferry ride to the Isle of Mull, one of the fabled islands off Scotland’s western coast. Here we are treated to a landscape of craggy cliffs, rocky bays, shimmering seas, heather-covered hills, and historic fishing villages. We visit ancient Duart Castle (built in 1360) and Torosay Palace, and our two days in Tobermory allow us time to enjoy its glorious harbor framed by a brightly painted crescent of 17th-century houses, and shops with crafts, antiques and woolens (plus a tour of the local distillery). Finally, we ferry across the Sound of Mull to the Ardnamurchan Peninsula where we are treated to the most spectacular mountain-to-ocean scenery imaginable.

Every night on this tour we are guests at a marvelous small hotel, including historic Ballathie House on the banks of the River Tay; the Kenmore Hotel near the shores of Loch Tay; Western Isles Hotel overlooking Tobermory Harbor; and Kilcamb Lodge on the shores of Loch Sunart. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

7 - D a y / 6 - N i g h t T o u r


Scotland

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7-DAY/6-NIGHT TOUR

Price* and Dates$2895 July 9–15, July 16–22, July 24–30

CyclingDay 1 Arrival day 14 mi. (23 km) Easier

Day 2 35 or 41 mi. (57 km or 66 km)


Day 3 37 or 44 mi. (60 or 71 km)


Day 4 29 mi. Ferry to Craignure (47 km)

Intermediate

Day 5 10, 26 or 35 mi. (16, 42 or 57 km)

Easier

Day 6 31 or 40 mi (50 or 65 km)

Intermediate

Day 7 Departure day

AccommodationsBallathie House Hotel, Kinclaven

Kenmore Hotel, Kenmore

Western Isles Hotel, Tobermory

Kilcamb Lodge, Strontian

Single TravelersSupplement for guaranteed private room

(when available): $102

There is no charge for single travelers willing to

share a room. See p. 48 #7 for full explanation.

Included are all ferries and excursions,

transfers to and from Glasgow airport (see p.

47 for details), free use of bikes, most entry

fees, 6 nights lodging, 6 breakfasts and 5

dinners. You are on your own one night in

Tobermory.

*Our prices are guaranteed regardless

of fluctuations in the value of the dollar

in foreign currencies.

Please note that our Scotland tours have a

minimum size of 6, and if we do not reach

that minimum by March 15 the tour will,

unfortunately, not run. Therefore, please

be sure to check with the Discovery Bicycle

Tours office as to the number of guests signed

up for your requested Scotland tour before

making any non-refundable flight or other

reservations.

“This was our first ever group vacation, andfirst ever bike tour. We couldn’t have picked abetter company! Now Discovery Bicycle Tourshas set the bar and it’s high ! This was afantastic week! The organization andprofessionalism were evident from the firstevening together. Can’t wait to scheduleanother Discovery Bicycle Tour adventure!”

Pam Arnold Powers and Kelly Powers


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Ride along the Christian pilgrimage route used during the Middle Ages v Enjoy a treasure trove of historical sites v Explore the beautiful towns of Pamplona, Burgos, Leon and Santiago de Compostela v

The road from the French border across the top of northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela was one of the three major Christian pilgrimage routes during the Middle Ages, all leading to the resting place of the Apostle St. James. Winding

from the Pyrenees to the gently rolling fields and woods of Galicia, this ancient system of trails and roads is now the most popular long-distance trail in Europe, renown for its stunningly varied landscape, its ancient villages, beautiful meadowlands, rolling hills and the famous vineyards of the Rioja region. You experience a treasure trove of historical sites, churches and cathedrals, religious art and some of the most extraordinary architecture in the western world. Add to this the wonders of such beautiful towns as Pamplona, Burgos, Leon and the wondrous city of Santiago de Compostela, and you have a magical and fascinating tour indeed. This tour was originally conceived and developed as a custom tour by our European specialist Rosita Menghi, and it was received so well we now offer it as a special event one time a year. Since the basic concept is to stay on, or next to, the traditional route, at times you will need to decide between riding a challenging section of the pathway or taking a paved option, and there are locations where we will transfer you by van so you can experience this entire section of the Camino. Following the traditional route also means that we are a few times somewhat limited in our options for places to stay. Therefore, while most of the hotels are exceptional, a few, while very nice, are a bit more modest 3-star properties. For a more detailed daily description please visit www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com.

1 0 - D a y / 9 - N i g h t T o u r


Spain-El Camino de Santiago

44 1-800-257-2226

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10-DAY/9-NIGHT TOUR

Price and Date$3295 June 2–11

Cycling Day 1 Arrival dayDay 2 27 mi . (43 km) Intermediate Day 3 29 mi . (46 km) IntermediateDay 4 31 mi . (50 km) IntermediateDay 5 Exploration DayDay 6 42 mi . (67 km) IntermediateDay 7 30 mi . (49 km) IntermediateDay 8 47 mi . (76 km) IntermediateDay 9 23 mi . (37 km) IntermediateDay 10 Departure day Accommodations Casa de Beneficiados, RoncesvallesGran Hotel Laperla, PamplonaHospederia Chapitel, EstellaHotel Meson del Cid, BurgosHotel La Posada Regia, LeonHotel Captricho de Jolanda, Las HerreriasHotel Alfonso IX, SarriaCasa Assumpta, ArzuaSan Francisco Hotel Monumento, Santiago



Included are 9 nights accommodations, 7 dinners (you are on your own two nights for dinner); 9 breakfasts; 2 lunches (one is a wine tasting as well); free use of bikes; transfer on day one from Pamplona Airport to Roncesvalles (see p . 47 for details); all transfers during the tour; and transfer on the final day to Santiago Airport .

*Our prices are guaranteed regardlessof fluctuations in the value of the dollarin foreign currencies .


“We highly recommend this tour for those who look upon the Camino de Santiago as a special journey. The history and heritage of the routes makes this an extraordinary tour...and the trip of a lifetime!”

Paul and Vicki Moering

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Custom Tours Over the years we have developed a significant expertise in customizing tours. For instance, we have had private groups and families do 70-plus miles a day; do back-to-back century rides; make a 10-day loop around the entire state of Vermont; customize a tour of Ireland; and enjoy a unique tour of Tuscany. We have designed very easy tours, and tours that build in options such as golfing, hiking, antiquing, photography and other activities. These special tours are always fun for us and we would be delighted to discuss any ideas you might have.

Private and Family Tours It is often possible to arrange one of our existing tours as a private event for a group of your friends or for your family. We can either reserve an existing tour for you, or run one of our tours for you on a special set of dates.

Group Size We normally require a minimum group size of 6.

Prices We try to keep our private tour prices consistent with our catalog prices, so ordinarily there is no extra cost. Customized tour prices are likewise consistent with those in our catalog subject to any special needs or requests your group might have.

Discounts The tenth rider in a group is free. Additional discounts for larger groups are available.

family toursprivate tourscustom tours

46 1-800-257-2226

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Free Shuttle DetailsDiscovery Bicycle Tours offers free transfers to and from our 6-Day/5-Night and longer

tours. Specific details, including the free transfer at the end of each tour, will be in your emailed Confirmation Packet and on www.discoverybicycletours.com.

The following is a brief summary concerning transfers and all refer to the day your tour begins. We offer one pick-up time/location per tour. In the event these pickup times or locations are not convenient for you, your Confirmation Packet will include various other non-included arrival options (including driving directions and public transportation alternatives).

Vermont and Quebec Tours: Northeast Kingdom, Vermont Discovery, Vermont Lake and Leisure, and Quebec: Meet at 2 PM on Arrival Day at Burlington International Airport (BTV). Three Rivers: Take taxi from Hanover, NH bus station (convenient to Boston/Logan and Manchester Airports) and we will reimburse you.Lake Champlain: Take taxi from Burlington International Airport (BTV) and we will reimburse you. California: Meet at Sonoma County Airport at 2 PM (conveniently reached by bus from San Francisco and Oakland Airports). Cape Cod/Martha’s Vineyard: Meet at Falmouth, MA bus station (conveniently reached by bus from Boston/Logan Airport) at 5:30 PM. Coast of Maine: Meet at Bangor International Airport at 2 PM. Eastern Shore of Maryland: Meet at Easton, MD bus station at 5:35 PM.Ireland: Meet at 9 AM or noon at Shannon International Airport.Italy - Puglia: Meet at Bari International Airport (Italy) at 11:30 AM.Italy - Tuscany: Meet at Santa Maria Novella Train Station in Florence at 1 PM.Scotland: Meet at Glasgow Airport at 10:30 AM.Spain: Meet at Pamplona, Spain Airport at 5 PM or train station at 5:30 PM.


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1. RESERVATIONS To reserve a place on a tour, or for additional information, call us at 800-257-2226, visit our web site at www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com, or email us at [email protected]. Reservations will be confirmed upon our receipt of your deposit and are subject to availability. As soon as we receive your deposit, we will email you confirmation materials with information about your trip. Included will be:• Trip Cancellation Insurance details • Directions for traveling to your starting inn

and transportation suggestions • Recommended clothing and equipment • Suggestions for preparing yourself for your tour • Special Dietary Requirements form • Sample Release of Liability form 2. DEPOSITS & FINAL PAYMENTTour deposits (per person) are as follows: 3-Day/2-Night tours $150 4-Day/3-Night tours $200 All other tours $300 Final payment is due 60 days prior to your tour. All deposits and final payments can be made by check or major credit card, and can be made online at www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com or by calling us at 800-257-2226. All deposits are applied to the full tour price.3. CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICIES – Vermont If you cancel your Vermont tour reservation, your cancellation fee will be determined as follows: Number of days Cancellation feeprior to trip starting day per person 61 or more days no fee 31-60 days your deposit 0-30 days all tour payments 4. CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICIES – All other toursIf you cancel any tour reservation except in Vermont, your cancellation fee will be determined as follows: Number of days Cancellation fee prior to trip starting day per person 61 or more days no fee 0-60 days all tour payments

5. TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE Please purchase Trip Cancellation Insurance since we are unable to make any exceptions to our cancellation policy – even for personal emergencies. Trip Cancell ation Insurance covers the cost of your Discovery Bicycle tour and other travel expenses in case you cancel for any number of reasons. Compare prices and policies at www.insuremytrip.com or apply directly with CSA Travel at 800-348-9505 or at www.csatravelpro.com (enter code 82667246). Canadian citizens will find Trip Cancellation Insurance at www.travelguard.ca. 6. CHANGING YOUR CHOICE OF TOURS You may switch your choice of tour, or this year’s tour date, without charge (subject to availability) at any time up to 60 days prior to your tour. 7. SINGLE TRAVELERSa. A limited number of guaranteed private rooms are available on most tours at an additional cost. This cost is indicated on each tour page.b. Single travelers willing to share a room will be charged an amount no greater than 50% of the guaranteed private room rate and this will be fully refunded if we can find you a roommate (same gender, two beds). This cost is also indicated on each tour page.Why the added charge? As you know, hotels and inns almost always charge by the room. Therefore, a private room costs the same as a room occupied by two people. Since Discovery Bicycle Tours’ per person rates are based on double occupancy, it is always more expensive for us to have a single traveler on tour. Be assured that we never charge you more for your private room than what we are being charged by the inns. Moreover, if you are willing to share a room but end up in a private room because we have not found you a roommate, it is our policy to absorb 50 percent of the private room cost, and you will not find a more generous approach anywhere.8. THE FIRST DAY Except where noted, the first day of each tour is an arrival day only. It includes a group dinner and get-acquainted orientation. Cycling begins on the following morning. See p.47 concerning our free shuttle service.

General Details

48 1-800-257-2226

General Details Coast of Maine Tour

87852_BikeVT.indd 48 11/6/13 3:54 PM

49

9. FINAL DAY DETAILS Our inns provide ample parking for all our tours. Most tours end between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on the final day (depending on the pace you ride) so please make your departure plans and reservations accordingly. 10. CHILDREN Children are very welcome if they are at least 10 years old, are physically capable of participating in the tour, and are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. 11. REFERRALS We would be pleased to give you referrals upon request.12. PETS Some of our inns have family pets. Let us know if you have any relevant allergies. 13. TOUR CANCELLATIONS BY DISCOVERY BICYCLE TOURS Although it almost never happens, should we have to cancel your tour, your two options are to take a different tour with us, or receive a 100% refund of tour payments. 14. SMALL TOURS Except where noted, and as a courtesy to our guests, Discovery Bicycle Tours will normally run a tour with as few as four participants. Please advise us at least 60 days in advance if you do not want to tour in a small group.

15. BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKEYour bicycle should have a minimum of 21 gears. Please have your bike thoroughly checked by a professional bike mechanic before you arrive.

16. FREE USE OF OUR BIKESWe will be happy to help you select the best bike for your tour. Our expertly maintained bikes come equipped with a front handlebar bag, rear carrier, water bottle and mirror. Pedal cages and soft gel seat covers are available on request. We are also happy to put your own clipless pedals and seat on your bike if you wish. Specific details are as noted below. The styles of bikes available in each location are indicated under each bike photograph below. The make of road bikes provided varies by location.17. HELMETS Helmets are required and are made available to you at no charge. We encourage you to bring your own. 18. OUR DISCOUNT POLICYDiscovery Bicycle Tours guarantees that if you sign up for a tour and later someone signs up for that same tour because of a special discount we have subsequently offered, you will automatically get that same discount. 19. TOUR SIZE MINIMUM Please note that some of our tours have a minimum size, and if we do not reach that minimum the tour will, unfortunately, not run. Therefore, please be sure to check with the Discovery Bicycle Tours office as to the number of guests signed up for your requested tour before making any non-refundable flight or other reservations.

TREK® HYBRID BIKEDiamond frame – Upright handlebars All tours

TREK® HYBRID BIKEMixte frame – Upright handlebars All tours

JAMIS®, GIANT® OR SPECIALIZED® ROAD BIKEDiamond frame – Dropped handlebars • Vermont• Maryland • Tuscany

PHOTOGRAPHY Wally Smith, Terry Burke, Bill Reuther, Larry Niles, Dawn Niles, Amanda Soule, Elaine Parker, Brian Allen, Cindy Burke, Amy and Tony Cox, Paul and Vicki Moering, Nick Tarr, Patty Burke-Wey, Jill Hershaft, Aldrich Hodge, Meg Davis

Jenna Gilly

• Quebec• Cape Cod/Martha’s Vineyard • California

www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com Miah

Coast of Maine Tour

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50 1-800-257-2226

Tour Page May June July Aug Sept Oct

North Hero House/ 20 $545 13-15 4-6 8-10 12-14 3-5Champlain Islands $595 27-29 11-13 22-24 10-12 25-27 Norwich Inn 21 $575 20-22 11-13 8-10 5-7 $595 15-17 19-21 26-28 October Country Inn 22 $525 23-25 27-29 4-6 15-17 5-7 3-5 $575 25-27 19-21 26-28 Shoreham Inn 23 $525 30-1 27-29 4-6 1-3 26-28 3-5 $575 18-20 22-24 10-12 Brampton Inn, Chestertown, MD 24 $745 2-4 9-11

North Hero House/ 18 $795 10-13 8-11 12-15 30-3 7-10Champlain Islands $845 17-20 22-25 26-29 29-1

Lake Champlain/ 8 $1695 1-6 27-1 17-22 21-26 Grand Isle $1895 31-5 28-3 Northeast Kingdom 10 $1695 15-20 20-25 10-15 7-12 5-10 $1795 17-22 28-3

2014 Tour ScheduleVERMONT/MARYLANDWeekend Tours

VERMONT 4-Day/3-Night Tours


Scotland Tour

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Tour Page March April May June July Aug Sept Oct


Three Rivers 12 $1695 29-4 13-18 3-8 14-19 5-10 $1795 Vermont Discovery 14 $1695 22-27 13-18 10-15 21-26 5-10 $1795 24-29 12-17 Vermont Lake & Leisure 16 $1795 8-13 6-11 17-22 14-19 5-10 $1995 20-25 CALIFORNIA WINE AND COAST 6-Day/5-Night Tour

26 $2295 16-21 27-2 4-9 1-6 13-18 17-22 28-3 5-10 $2495 24-29 12-17 31-5 CAPE COD/MARTHA’S VINEYARD 6-Day/5-Night Tour

28 $1950 8-13 5-10 15-20 22-27 COAST OF MAINE 6-Day/5-Night Tour

30 $1850 15-20 6-11 3-8 7-12 $1995 22-27 13-18 10-15 14-19 27-1 17-22 21-26 28-3 32 $1950 4-9 11-16 18-23 IRELAND 7-Day/6-Night Tour

34 $2895 3-9 12-18 20-26

ITALY - TUSCANY 7-Day/6-Night Tour

36 $2895 17-23 6-12 27-3

ITALY - PUGLIA 8-Day/7-Night Tour

38 $3195 5-12 9-16 QUEBEC 6-Day/5-Night Tour

40 $1695 22-27 13-18 10-15 7-12 5-10 $1895 29-4 27-1 24-29 21-26 28-3 SCOTLAND 7-Day/6-Night Tour

42 $2895 9-15 16-22 24-30 SPAIN 10-Day/9-Night Tour

44 $3295 2-11

Deposits per person: see page 48, #2. Detailed daily descriptions on www.discoverybicycletours.com.

MARYLAND 6-Day/5-Night Tour

Prices listed include all state and local rooms and meals taxes, and all gratuities for lodging and dining. Gratuities for leaders are at your discretion.

Scotland Tour

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“We have been on a number of bike trips and honestly, Discovery Bicycle Tours is heads above the rest. We now know that we will not go with anyone else!”


PAIDVILLANTI

MAILED FROM 05401

C H A N G E S E R V I C E R E Q U E S T E D


PAIDVILLANTI

MAILED FROM 05401Discovery Bicycle ToursPO Box 207Woodstock, VT 05091

www.DiscoveryBicycleTours.com 800-257-2226 802-457-3553 [email protected]

facebook.com/DiscoveryBicycleTours @DiscoveryBike #discoverybicycletours

Steve and Peggy Nichalson

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discovery bicycle tours 2014 catalog

Documents

inn experiences

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brampton inn

true inn

shoreham inn

tour dates

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great response