Note on Itinerary: Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.
Qualifications: This trip is rated easy, so it is perfect for anyone who is physically fit and likes to cycle; the presence of a support van and flat terrain means that cyclists of all abilities may join. The daily distances are around 50 km (30 miles) a day, which translates into about four hours of riding more or less equally divided between morning and afternoon. This may sound like a lot, but we make frequent stops to take pictures, enjoy a cappuccino, or simply enjoy the view. You are provided with written route directions, which allow you to be independent and ride at your own pace. However, a regular conditioning program consisting of cycling, walking/running and a daily stretching regimen is recommended, beginning at least 3 months prior to departure. This will get you in shape and ensure that you are comfortable in the saddle, allowing you to enjoy all that this wonderful trip has to offer. In other words, get your bum used to a bike seat before you arrive to avoid suffering during the trip! There is a support van to move the luggage and also to help tired bikers in case of need. Most importantly, the rides are absolutely beautiful!
The Bikes: Our hybrid bikes are lightweight KTM "Life Sprint" aluminium frames
with high-end Shimano Deore and Deore XT componentry. They are very
comfortable, with a relatively upright riding position as well as
climbing bars which enable you to change your hand position. They have
27 speeds with index shifters on the handlebars. They have a low
gearing ratio to make hill climbing especially easy, and the upright
sitting position reduces shoulder and neck fatigue. A
more upright position also means that you get to look at the beautiful
countryside instead of just the asphalt in front of your wheel!
The bikes come with a small front handlebar bag suitable only
for light things, a separate map case, water bottle, pump, spare tube,
and a rear carrier rack. We HIGHLY recommend that you bring a strap-on
rear carrier bag that sits on top of the rear rack (not a side pannier).
You can bring your own pedals and seat, which we can mount for you. The
bikes are sized based on the information that you send to us, so be as accurate as you can! You must
bring your own helmet. Please check KTM website if you are interested in a hybrid bike. If you would prefer a road bike, please see the Carrera-Podium website. If you would like more detailed info from our bike geek, please send him an e-mail.
Trip Cost Includes: All accommodations (1 night Venice, 1 night Contarina, 2 nights Ferrara, 2 nights Ravenna -- all hotels 3-star -- and 2 nights in 4-star in Dozza); 8 breakfasts and 6 dinners; bilingual guide or guides; support vehicle; guided tours as noted in the itinerary; all luggage transfers and final transfer to Bologna train station at the end of the trip; bikes (quality 27-speed hybrid-style touring bikes with front handlebar bags and rear racks).
Not Included: Round-trip airfare; airport/hotel transfers; lunches; two dinners; travel insurance; gratuities; alcoholic beverages; and items of a personal nature. Please bring your own bike helmet, as you will be required to wear one. Reservations and payment: In order to reserve a space on the
trip, a non-refundable deposit of $200 USD or Euro 200 (depending on
the trip) is required. Please contact us at info@customwalks.com or go to the Reservations page
on our website for more information. We will send you a trip agreement
that outlines the terms and conditions of payment and cancellation. Weather: We have scheduled our departures to avoid
mid-summer heat and crowds while still enjoying an ample amount of
sunshine. Temperatures during our visits generally range from 70° to
80° F during the day, dropping approx. 10 degrees at night. Some
rainfall is possible on any of the departures requiring participants to
arrive equipped with appropriate raingear (see Gear List).
Getting there (this will redirect you to our "Getting to the Trip" page)
General Information: This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the CustomWalks Ltd. reservation information and trip agreement. Please read this information carefully and e-mail us (or use the "Contact Us" page) if you have any questions. We highly recommend the purchase of Trip Insurance which you can do through CustomWalks Ltd or by clicking on the logo below (another window will open up on your screen).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited. Send us an e-mail or fax to reserve your trip. Full trip details including detailed pre-departure information, train timetables, and a gear list are sent upon receipt of deposit. Come join us!
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