Ride along the German Rhine and a section of the Alsace Wine Route in France to discover one of the most culturally rich regions in Europe. Explore the Rhine River from both the German and French sides to indulge in the very best this enchanting region has to offer. With seemingly endless picture perfect landscapes lining the meandering Rhine, dedicated bike paths for safe and easy cycling and a swathe of beautifully preserved villages to inspire you each day, there are few cycle trips that offer so many 'bells and whistles'. From the EU capital of Strasbourg to the art city of Frieburg, traditional Colmar to the moated, UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Neuf-Brisach, the Romanesque and Baroque architecture as well as medieval castles will keep you captivated. The gastronomic delights are plentiful in this part of Europe and you can sample some of the regions finest produce as you cycle through undulating farmland, orchards and vineyards. This itinerary soaks up the relaxed and jovial atmosphere of one of the most picturesque parts of the Alsace Wine Route, which can only be described as a wine-lovers' wonderland, taking in the routes most famous villages of Eguisheim, Turckheim, Kaysersberg and Riquewihr, where you will witness delightful examples of traditional half-timbered Alsatian architecture. With so many highlights your pedals will seem to turn themselves during this simply stunning ride along the Rhine River and its various valleys in Germany and France.
Your journey takes you along a mix of inland and coastal routes, starting amidst the Baroque splendour of Ragusa and Modica and ending in stunning Siracusa on the east coast. You'll cycle through lush valleys filled with olive trees, almond groves, vineyards and citrus orchards and patchwork puzzles of dry-stone-wall farms, as you cycle between UNESCO World Heritage Sites rebuilt in the typical late Baroque style after the famous 1693 earthquake.
You'll take in plenty of Inspector Montalbano country - a treat for fans of the fictional detective series - including Scicli with its atmospheric streets and hilltop mausoleum as well as the charming fishing villages of Punta Secca and Sampieri. Following the scenic Mediterranean Route cycleway you'll head towards the sea, taking in sublime coastline, punctuated by golden sandy beaches and picturesque fishing villages such as Portopalo di Capo Passero and pretty Marzamemi with its Arab history. After passing through Nero D'Avola wine country your holiday finishes in beautiful Siracusa, an ancient Greek city whose 'historical heart' is the island of Ortigia, accessed by a bridge from the mainland. Ortigia's grand squares, narrow medieval streets and romantic palaces and castles are a delight to behold.
We were bike fitted with very comfortable bikes which we enjoyed riding. The GPS was excellent although we did misplace ourselves now and then. The rides went through very beautiful Tuscan country and lovely villages. My favourite was Lucca. Thanks for providing great equipment we enjoyed this week of our holiday in Italy.
The Via Francigena is well signed and has a lot of different scenery, wheat and hazelnut farms, forests old towns etc and great different accommodation each night.
Cycle and cruise the Lycian Coast between Bodrum and Fethiye. There are few coastlines which offer the appealing combination of sublime landscapes, rich cultural history and legacies from ancient civilisations found on Turkey's Lycian Coast. We spend a week discovering the coastline and backcountry between Bodrum and Fethiye with our three-masted motor yacht. Our charming and stylish vessel is built to the highest of standards. Accompanied by our guide you will discover the unique natural wonders and historical cities which grace the area. Admire the famous tombs of Dalyan, which were cut into the cliffs between 4 and 2 BC by the Lycian coastal inhabitants, and the spectacular Saklikent Canyon. Spend your evenings relaxing on board in the deserted bays or make the most of the nightlife in the port cities and their many cafes and bars.
I have just got home from my cycle holiday in the Loire. It exceeded my expectations. The guide Pierre, was very knowledgeable and helpful. The bikes were good. The cycle paths were all excellent, a few quiet roads, I did not feel nervous or over challenged. There was variety and plenty of visits to Chateau’s, vineyards and wine tasting. The picnic lunches were all very French, which is all part of the experience, and Thomas made wonderful choices of where we had them. The level of cycling was accurate. The distances were comfortable. I will certainly be looking for my next trip with Exodus.
If a visit to a prestigious champagne producer or cellar constitutes an unmissable part of your trip, uncovering the secrets of the vineyards and of wine, you will also ride through the 'other' Champagne following the Wine Route : more secret and intimate, whose rolling slopes are among the most beautiful riches the Champagne region has to offer!
Known around the world for its wines, Champagne is also a popular destination for cycling, offering an ideal playground. Ride among the vineyards and terraced hillsides where Champagne villages, chateaux, and churches are nestled. Enjoy panoramic viewpoints overlooking the vineyards and picturesque villages. The winemakers' open their doors to you, for tastings and tours of the cellars. They will passionately explain their know-how while showing you around their property.
Discover the royal splendour of Paris and the Seine Valley by bike and barge. France's Seine Valley is a region rich in royal history. With so much to see, do and absorb, the ideal way to explore this fascinating part of France is by bike and barge. From the lights of Paris to the beautiful medieval towns of Ferriers and Chateau-Landon, you'll experience a diverse range of sights during this week long cycling tour. The magnificent Fontainebleau Chateau, with its perfectly symmetrical Royal Gardens which the French kings had their royal architects design for them, is a fine example of the regions regal past. Cycling along the river in the company of your expert guide, through woodlands and small villages, ensures you'll gain a unique insight into this beautiful region. Cities, canals and cosy French towns - this trip will provide you with a truly magnificent French experience.
It's no surprise that Lake Garda is northern Italy's most popular destination. Full of beauty and history, lush green hills frame the clear waters as each point around the lake has its own unique character and charm. We have chosen the southern tip of the lake as our base, perched on the edge of the Mincio River. Our routes take you through diverse landscapes and towns around Lake Garda and along the river, on both the Lombardy and Veneto sides of the water. Cycle through vineyards, medieval towns, and along the famous Sirmione peninsula with its ancient castle. There's plenty to see along the way as you can visit UNESCO Heritage sites, Roman ruins, and of course, relax lakeside. There are also opportunities to sample the local wines in Bardolino and Valpolicella, regarded as some of the country's finest reds.
This is not just a cycling holiday it is an immersion into local Tuscan life, from wine and oil sampling to hot thermal spa baths and the chance to taste local wines and olive oils. Sample the Vino Nobile of Monepulciano, rich Pecorino cheese in Pienza or take a bath in Roman Bagno Vignoni.
Fantastic 5-days of cycling in a beautiful part of Italy. Michele guided us through his home patch wonderfully with great choices for coffee (and cake) stops in the mornings and great lunch stops too. Loved the light-touch history and culture (especially the football). One pretty challenging day of cycling in the trip (Verona-Vicenza) but made it up the big hill in the afternoon and enjoyed the coasting downhill after our picnic. All the overnights were in cities which made for lots of choice over dinner options and Italian food didn't disappoint. Had such a variety over the week. Padua and Venice are both cities that would warrant further visits. Just amazing, and despite a horrible forecast the weather was very kind too.
Crete is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece - and rightly so! Eastern Crete in particular has retained its genuine character and style and holds its place as the 'quieter' side of the island. With plenty to see and many local tavernas to enjoy, don't forget to sample the national drink Raki alongside your delicious Greek meze.
This trip offers a unique experience to explore Crete in the best way, on two wheels! You'll cycle the islands spectacular coastline, passing through the intriguing villages of Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra and Rethimno. With important archaeological sites to visit and tranquil golden beaches to relax on, there's heaps to admire in between your rides.
The accommodations on this trip are mostly family-run and traditionally Cretan. While Crete is typically home to more simple accommodations, these have all been chosen for their great location, services, and comfort.
We explore the very best of this captivating region from our start point in Alberobello, known for its UNESCO-listed Trulli houses, to the end point in Lecce, known as the 'Florence of the South'.
The daily routes take you through the Murghe plateau, the Salento plain or along the coast. Discover a landscape of ancient olive groves, long fields of grain and vineyards.
The architecture of the region takes you from the conical Trulli houses in Alberobello, the white city of Ostuni, past traditional masserie, coastal watchtowers and splendid Baroque towns. The region is filled with spectacular views; beautiful coastline and mouth-watering cuisine.
This holiday is offered with a choice of mainly 3 Star, or mainly 4 Star accommodation. The 3 Star accommodation is listed on the hotels page.