Andalucia Preciosa - Ciclismo Classico

ANDALUCIA PRECIOSA 2016
Ability Level: Intermediate / Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Andalucia Preciosa
Explore the roads and roots of the Spanish
southland
The countryside of Andalucia is dappled with olive groves and surrounded
by charming villages perched high on scenic overlooks. This region is
steeped in tradition and history and is an attraction for culture lovers as well
as traditional vacationers. From its golden beaches to the high mountain
ranges of the Sierra Morena and Sistemas Beticos, Andalucia’s rich
landscape and artistry leave a grand impression. The Guadalquivir River,
which winds its way through the countryside, once served as an ancient
pathway for travel and trade. It was in this land of great tradition where the
myths of Don Juan and Carmen were born.
Ciclismo Classico
CLASSICO
P E D A L
Y O U R
P A S S I O N
ITINERARY OUTLINE
Trip Essence / Page 2
Daily Itinerary / Page 3-5
Arrival & Departure / Page 6
Bike Information / Page 6
Terms & Conditions / Page 7
Reserve Your Space! / Page 7
1-800-866-7314 | [email protected] | www.ciclismoclassico.com
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ANDALUCIA PRECIOSA 2016
Ability Level: Intermediate / Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
TRIP ESSENCE
• Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cordoba and the
enchanting town of Antequera
• Savor the region’s sumptuous cuisine
• Learn more about the fascinating Flamenco dance
• Marvel at the unforgettable Andalusian sunsets
WHAT’S INCLUDED
• Bike rental, see page 6 for details
• Service of local, professional guides throughout the program
• Ciclismo jersey and water bottle
• All accommodations
• 6 dinners, 2 lunches & all breakfasts
CLASSICO
P E D A L
Y O U R
P A S S I O N
TRIP DETAILS
2016 Trip Dates
• Itinerary available as a private
group departure, dates can
be chosen based on your
preferred time to travel and
the best time to visit the
location
Ability Level
• Intermediate
Summary of Daily Distances
• Day 1: 10 miles
• Day 2: 26/37 miles
• Day 3: 45/65 miles
• Day 4: 46/57 miles
• Day 5: 42/53 miles
• Day 6: 41/51 miles
• Day 7: 56/62 miles
• Day 8: 41/57 miles
• Day 9: Adios!
Optional extra loops available
Trip Price
• Please contact us for pricing,
adjustments to the itinerary
can be made upon request
• Cooking class
• Olive oil tasting
• Wine tasting
• Full van support
• An evening of music & dance
• Walking tours of Cordoba and Antequera
• Shuttle at end of the tour
“Spain was magical - Moorish fairy
tales and colorful countrysides.”
- Carrie B. Brighton, MA
Ciclismo Classico
1-800-866-7314 | [email protected] | www.ciclismoclassico.com
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ANDALUCIA PRECIOSA 2016
Ability Level: Intermediate / Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
DAY 1
CLASSICO
P E D A L
Y O U R
P A S S I O N
Highlights
BIENVENIDOS A
CORDOBA!
Daily Mileage - 10 miles
Riding Terrain - Flat along the
Guadalquivir River
Meet at our hotel in at 1 pm for introductions and light lunch before a short
warm-up spin through Cordoba, our starting city! This city owes its fame
to the brilliance of Roman, Moorish, Jewish and Christian civilizations that
endowed it with a rich and varied history. It was the Spanish capital from the
8th to the 11th century, and has many hidden, famous garden patios on the
cobbled streets of the old city that just waiting to be explored!
The Hesperia Cordoba is designed in a modern Andalusian style, with a
terracotta façade topped by two turrets. The hotel is located on the banks
of the Guadalquivir River, 500 meters from the Mezquita Cathedral, with
impressive views of the city’s historical monuments. The 108 air-conditioned
guest rooms feature contemporary decor with colorful Andalusian fabrics
and tiles.
Hotel - Hotel Hesperia
• Location: Cordoba
• Duration: 2 Nights
• www.hesperia.com
DAY 2
Highlights
CORDOBA LOOP
Daily Mileage - 26/37 miles
Riding Terrain - Hilly with some
great climbs and descents
Soar across a flat, fertile valley, typical of this region in the foothills of the
“Sierra Morena.” The road we follow twists through rolling hills and affords
beautiful views of the city of Cordoba. Farms, mills and olive oil presses are
scattered along the path, adding to the serene feeling of the Andalusian
countryside.
Hotel - See Day 1
DAY 3
Highlights
CORDOBA TO PRIEGO
Daily Mileage - 45/65 miles
Riding Terrain - Rolling with
one long climb to the summit
Hotel - Hotel Huerta de las
Palomas
• Location: Priego
• Duration: 1 Night
• www.hotelhuertadelaspalomas.com/
Ciclismo Classico
Ride to the southeast corner of the province of Cordoba, one of the biggest
olive oil producing areas in the world; we’ll do an olive oil tasting in an old
olive oil factory in Castro Del Rio, where we’ll also have lunch. The rest of
the ride takes us through picturesque Andalusian towns in the Subbetica
National Park before we reach our final destination in the outskirts of
Priego. This town overlooks the rolling hills of the mountain range, providing
stunning views.
Located on the outskirts of the Subbetica Natural Park, this 4-star hotel is
surrounded by beautiful olive groves and undulating countryside. All rooms
are nicely decorated and equipped with many amenities. There is an interior
patio, typical in Andalusian houses, where guests can chill out during those
very warm days. The hotel had an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and gym,
and internet is available.
1-800-866-7314 | [email protected] | www.ciclismoclassico.com
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ANDALUCIA PRECIOSA 2016
Ability Level: Intermediate / Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
DAY 4
P A S S I O N
We pass through the town of Priego, famous for its Baroque architecture,
and then pedal through a sea of olive groves. We’ll catch sight of the
various farm animals that make the region agriculturally productive and
in the background we’ll have views of the Sierra Nevada. Our ride then
heads through the rural countryside to Riofrío, a small village whose 300
inhabitants appreciate the stop from visitors! Thanks to a nearby river,
Riofrío has become a favorite spot for both fisherman and fish eaters.
Daily Mileage - 46/57 miles
Riding Terrain - Rolling with
some climbs
Hotel - Hotel Almazara
• Location: Riofrio
• Duration: 1 Night
• www.almazarahotel.com
This old olive-oil factory, once called “Almazara de Riofrío” was renovated
into a charming 4-star hotel, combining the comforts of the modern day
with the authenticity of the past. The hotel also features a swimming pool,
internet access, air conditioning and cable TV in the rooms.
DAY 5
Highlights
RIOFRIO TO
ANTEQUERA
Daily Mileage - 42/53 miles
Riding Terrain - Hilly
Hotel - Parador de Antequera
• Location: Antequara
• Duration: 2 Nights
• www.parador.es/es/
paradores/parador-deantequera
DAY 6
The first sighting of Antequera in the distance is that of a typical medieval
town. Rich farmlands are spread out in the valley below, irrigated by
the Guadalhorce River. For centuries, this has been one of Andalucia’s
most fertile areas. In the summer, its fields fill with sunflowers and turn a
brilliant yellow. The town and valley are overlooked by an enormous crag
of limestone 880 meters high called La Peña de los Enamorados, or “The
Lovers’ Leap.” The name comes from a local legend about an impossible
love affair between a young Christian man from Antequera and a beautiful
Moorish girl from nearby Archidona.
This strikingly modern 4-star Parador de Antequera overlooks the gorgeous
landscapes of Andalucia. Enjoy the views of the rock formations and sunsets
from the outdoor pool, trendy terrace and elegant restaurant. The hotel is
surrounded by green gardens and a refreshing swimming pool. Free Wi-Fi.
Highlights
ANTEQUARA LOOP
Daily Mileage - 41/51 miles
Riding Terrain - Rollingm one
long climb to the summit
Ciclismo Classico
Y O U R
Highlights
PRIEGO TO RIOFRIO
Hotel - See Day 5
CLASSICO
P E D A L
A visit to this historical Andalusian town is a journey almost 5,000 years back
in time, beginning with the Bronze Age and the native Iberians. The city has
a cross section of burial mounds, dolmens (portal tombs), Roman baths, a
Moorish Castle, Gothic churches, Renaissance fountains and baroque bell
towers. Enjoy a scenic and flat ride to Laguna Fuente de Piedra, Andalucia’s
largest natural saltwater lake, the breeding ground for hundreds of flamingos.
1-800-866-7314 | [email protected] | www.ciclismoclassico.com
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ANDALUCIA PRECIOSA 2016
Ability Level: Intermediate / Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
DAY 7
Daily Mileage - 56/62 miles
Riding Terrain - Challenging
climbs with rolling terrain
Hotel - Parador de Ronda
• Location: Ronda
• Duration: 2 Nights
• www.parador.es/es/
paradores/parador-de-ronda
DAY 8
Daily Mileage - 41/57 miles
Riding Terrain - 2 major climbs
(3 miles each), long descent
ADIOS!
Ciclismo Classico
P A S S I O N
Despite being Andalucia’s fastest-growing town, Ronda retains much of
its historic charm. It is famous worldwide for its dramatic escarpments
and views, and for the deep El Tajo gorge that carries the Río Guadalevín
through its center. Visitors make a beeline for the 18th century Puente
Nuevo (New Bridge), which straddles the chasm below, for its unparalleled
views out over the Serranía de Ronda Mountains. Ronda is also famous as
the birthplace of modern bullfighting, today glimpsed once a year at the
spectacular Feria Goyesca. The Plaza de Toros (bullring) also has a museum
in which visitors can stroll into the arena and view pictures of Hemingway
with the most important bullfighters of the time.
The 4-star Parador is the center of the city. Bright, spacious living rooms
boast an abundance of plants while the bedrooms and comfortable splitlevel suites have beautiful views that overlook the pool. Free Wi-Fi.
Highlights
RONDA LOOP
DAY 9
Y O U R
Highlights
ANTEQUERA TO RONDA
Hotel - See Day 7
CLASSICO
P E D A L
Today we’ll spin along a rocky limestone ridge towards Grazalema, situated
in the mountain range of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. This is a karst
region which contains a large number of limestone caverns. The Sierra de
Grazalema is also home to many colonies of vultures, including a few pairs
of Egyptian vultures, a species which is seriously threatened: the natural
park has been declared a biosphere. We’ll return to Ronda for a relaxing
stroll in town before our final celebration dinner.
Highlights
After breakfast, at around 9 am, we will provide transfers to the bus or train
station in Ronda. We say a fond farewell, as you head home or to a new
destination. Return to Seville, or go on to explore the streets of Granada
and the city’s famous Alhambra – an incredible sight worth seeing. Given its
popularity, we recommend that you buy tickets for the palace ahead of time,
as they are typically either sold out or require standing in long lines. Check
out: www.alhambra-tickets.es. We are happy to make suggestions for you
post-tour travels. ¡Hasta pronto!
1-800-866-7314 | [email protected] | www.ciclismoclassico.com
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ANDALUCIA PRECIOSA 2016
Ability Level: Intermediate / Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
GETTING TO CORDOBA
For easier return: Fly to Malaga P. Picasso (AGP), take a train (www.renfe.
es) from the airport to the city center (every 30 min). Make sure to buy
a ticket before you board the train. Taxis are another option to Malaga
(roughly 20 Euro). Trains from Malaga for Cordoba (1.75 hrs) depart several
times a day (20-30 Euro). Option 2: Fly to Sevilla San Pablo (SVQ), take a
taxi (20 min, 20 Euro) or bus (2.30 Euro) to the Santa Justa train station.
Trains depart frequently from Sevilla to Cordoba and take about 40 min.
DEPARTING FROM X
CLASSICO
P E D A L
Y O U R
P A S S I O N
OTHER INFORMATION
For Flight Reservations
Valerie Wilson Travel
Call: 1-855-780-2022 or
E-mail: [email protected]
Travel Insurance
MH Ross
Call: 1-800-423-3632
http://bit.ly/MHRoss_Insurance
Transportation
Rome2rio
http://www.rome2rio.com
Around 9 am we offer one group shuttle to the train and bus station in
Ronda where you can connect to Malaga. There are 5-8 buses per day
including 3 or 4 direct buses, and only 1 direct train (7:12 am, takes less than
2 hours). There are 4-5 buses to Sevilla, and expect to wait 2-3 hours if you
travel by train and transfer in remote locations.
BIKE INFORMATION
Bianchi Via Nirone 7
• Bianchi carbon fork, Shimano 105 triple groupset, an adjustable stem, and a
wheel set laced with 32 spokes and 25mm tires. Included on all tours
Aluminum Hybrid
• More relaxed riding at a look-around-you pace, this is our custom-built, highperformance aluminum hybrid bicycles with straight handlebars. We also have
woman-specific frame. Included on all tours
Bianchi Intenso and Vertigo
• The carbon frame guarantees maximum performance with minimum stress
for the riders, thanks to Bianchi’s special C2C (Coast to Coast) frame design/
geometry and different material combination. Carbon bikes are equipped
with compact crank and 11/32 cassette. Available for $250
• Bianchi Intenso or Vertigo with Shimano included on all intermediate and
advanced tours at no extra charge
Tandems
• Cannondale road or hybrid: racing posture with 700c wheels, or a more
straight up position and 26 inch wheels.
• Co-motion Periscope: accommodates smaller team or even children.
Available for $400
• Honey tandem: light and responsive and perfect for experienced tandem
riders. Available for $400
eBikes
• Available on all easy and athletic beginner tours, some intermediate and
advanced tours. Please contact us for more information. Available for $400
Bike type outside of Europe may vary, please contact us at 800-866-7314 for more information.
Ciclismo Classico
ON THE BIKE
Included
• Ciclismo Classico water bottle
• Two water bottle holders
• Map holder on handlebars (or
Garmin Edge GPS)
• Handlebar bag
• Tire pump
• Combination bike lock
• Gel-padded saddle
• Choice of pedals
• Card with your tour leaders’
mobile phone numbers
Garmin Edge GPS
• Included on all carbon bikes
and premium tandems (CoMotion and Honey)
• $30 rental fee for other bikes
Pedal Options
• Flat pedals
• Half-toe pedals (without
straps)
• Toe cage pedals
Things to Bring
• Helmet
• Optional: clipless pedals with
shoes
• Optional: your own saddle
1-800-866-7314 | [email protected] | www.ciclismoclassico.com
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ANDALUCIA PRECIOSA 2016
Ability Level: Intermediate / Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
CLASSICO
P E D A L
Y O U R
P A S S I O N
INSURANCE, TERMS & CONDITIONS
Insurance
Ciclismo Classico will not assume responsibility or liability for any loss or damage of personal effects or for any injury or
loss during the duration of the tour. Therefore, we highly recommend that you obtain travel insurance. Information on
travel insurance will be sent to you via email once trip deposit is received. We recommend MH Ross, but travelers may
choose the insurance carrier of their choice.
Cancellations and Refunds
All requests for refunds must be submitted in writing as soon as possible to Ciclismo Classico. Exceptions to their
cancellation policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies. There is no refund for
unexpectedly leaving a trip early or arriving late. The purchase of short-term travel insurance policy is strongly
recommended. Cancellation fees are determined as followed:
Days before departure – Cancellation fee
121+ days - 50% of the deposit*
91-120 days - 100% of the deposit*
61-90 days - 30% of the trip price
31-60 days - 60% of the trip price
31-44 days - 100% of the trip price
*You may transfer your trip deposit to another departure in the same tour season up to 90 days before your original
departure with payment of a $100 per person transfer fee. Prices quoted are subject to adjustment without prior
notification. OR your deposit (currently $600) may be carried forward to the following year as a credit toward the final
balance of a tour. At the time of booking, we will ask for another $600 deposit to secure your spot. Carried-forward
credits expire at the end of the year to which they are applied.
Alterations to the tour itinerary
Sometimes modifications may be made to the itinerary. We will notify you of any changes that may affect your arrival,
departure or lodging. Any changes to the program are made in the best interest and safety of the group.
To review our policies, please visit http://www.ciclismoclassico.com/plan-your-trip/policies/
RESERVE YOUR SPACE!
To reserve a space, call Ciclismo Classico at 800-866-7314. Or, mail your deposit and contact information to:
Ciclismo Classico
attn: Rosa
30 Marathon St
Arlington, MA 02474
At the time of registration, a deposit of $600 per person is due, payable by Visa, MasterCard, American Express or
check, made payable to Ciclismo Classico, along with your full name, mailing address, phone number(s) and email
address. We cannot confirm reservations without a deposit. Final payment is due 90 days before departure payable by
check, credit card, wire transfer or money order. All travelers must review and sign a terms and conditions statement
and a waiver form.
Ciclismo Classico
1-800-866-7314 | [email protected] | www.ciclismoclassico.com
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