Cycling the Best of Southern Tuscany
Piccolo Hotel La Valle is situated just outside the walls of the hilltop town of Pienza, a UNESCO Heritage Site which is also famous for its fabulous sheep cheese. You’ll reach it on day 4 of the Best of Southern Tuscany tour and have the opportunity to stay two nights. The building is new and the outdoor patio looks out into the Orcia Valley with its hills and cypress trees, bread and butter of the Tuscan landscape. A two night stay also means two mornings on the panoramic balcony for breakfast before your rides through the region!
While in Pienza, don’t miss the central square and the Cathedral of the Assunta; be sure to take time to find the frescoes from the 14th century still adorning its inner walls. There are plenty of Renaissance-era buildings to take in, and those who enjoy architecture will find a stroll through the town delightful.
Bicycling the Castles of the Loire Valley
Le Manoir des Minimes and its elegance fit right into the landscape of châteaux and gardens. The rooms look right out onto the Loire River, and the building was once the home of prominent French families. Within walking distance to the center of the charming town of Amboise, the hotel lies in the shadow of the castle. Just out on the riverbank, you’ll love the terrace and well-manicured garden as well as the well-lit and smartly decorated interior. If the photos of the property don’t bring on a sigh of relaxation, your visit there will!
Bicycling Scotland’s Highlands Coast to Coast
When your ride through the beautiful heathered hills and Highlands of Scotland comes to an end for the day, you’ll feel right at home in this comfortable and relaxing lodge. The friendly staff at Old Pines Hotel will welcome you into the sitting room as you gaze out on the hotel’s spectacular view of Ben Nevis. Their dining room sets you at the center of the panorama and you can enjoy the rural landscape of Scotland in a warm and cozy atmosphere at a homemade meal of local and organic products. Expect to have a salad with the vegetables from the Old Pines Hotel’s own garden paired with homemade bread baked that day; sounds guid!
Like the ancient Etruscans & Romans, people still come from afar to soak in these natural springs just 5 km from the Ligurian coastline. At Il Calidario, you will have the opportunity to take in the warmth of the pool for two nights on tour after your rides. This spa hotel offers a sizeable outdoor pool, options for massages, several treatments, and various saunas & pools in the Thermarium.
Bicycling the Danube from Germany to Vienna
The Hotel Wolfinger is right on Linz’s main square and in an ideal location for exploring and taking in the city’s essence. Linz is a marvelous Austrian town with its offerings of pastries (make sure to try the linzer torte at the Wolfinger), contemporary art, technology, and proximity to the Danube. The hotel’s rooms are spacious, and you’ll enjoy the antique furniture throughout the hotel. Just across the bridge from the square, you’ll find the Ars Electronica, which is a must-see while you’re in town; it synthesizes art, society, and technology in an interactive space as well as brings science to life. Head over there to explore their space exhibit, a new robot lab, and creative artistic invention center!
Bicycling Italy’s Lakes District
The Camin Hotel Colmegna will be your home on night two of the Lakes District trip. If you dream about staying in an Italian lakeside villa built in the 18th century with stunning views, we’ve found your spot! Originally a hunting lodge, this hotel has a park that is 2 ½ acres with plants from all over the world, which the owner brought back with him from his travels. Here you’re free to peruse the gardens, stroll the beach, relax on a nearby terrace, and relish in the peacefulness of the vast Lake Maggiore. Your breakfast will be served on the veranda, a wonderful way to start the day as you continue along the Tresa River to Lake Lugano.