Design Your Own Tour, with one of "Italy's Best Local Guides"
NEWBURYPORT, Mass., Dec. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — The Dolomites are renowned for their natural beauty, but for avid cyclists their appeal only begins with the majestic scenery. These mountains are the scene of the most challenging climbs in cycling lore, and a sought-after destination for any serious cyclist. Italiaoutdoors Food and Wine, a two-person guide team, creates customized itineraries for all levels of cyclists who wish to explore the Dolomites. Owners and guides Vernon McClure, named one of Italy's "Best Local Guides" for his knowledge and experience leading tours in the Dolomites, and chef and guide Kathy Bechtel customize itineraries for small groups of 4 or more, creating the perfect adventure for each. Rates start at $3,895, per person, based on double occupancy. http://www.italiaoutdoorsfoodandwine.com/index.php/bike-tours-italy-ski-holidays-italy/dolomites-cycling-tours
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131204/PH27235-a )
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131204/PH27235-b )
McClure and Bechtel personally work with each group to discover their tour expectations and cycling experience. A customized itinerary is developed, crafted to meet the needs of each individual cyclist. Tours can visit the 'Classic Climbs' in the heart of the Dolomites, combining little known passes known only to the locals with the renowned and rigorous bike climbs that are the highlight of the Giro d'Italia.
A tour designed for a mixed group of cyclists might focus on the "mid-mountains," exploring the foothills south of the Dolomites, an area widely considered the preferred training ground for local and race teams. The mid-mountains are the perfect destination for a group of varied abilities, with many challenges for experts alongside more forgiving terrain for relaxed cyclists. Even groups of casual cyclists can enjoy views of the majestic Dolomites from the flat and tranquil bike paths along the Sudtirol Wine Road.
For the most experienced climbers, an ideal itinerary could visit the hardest climbs in northeast Italy – those rated about the 200-point difficulty level, providing the ultimate challenge for cyclists who have trained hard and are ready to embrace the most difficult climbs the Dolomites can offer.
Each tour is personally led by McClure and Bechtel, and is tailored to provide the best balance of activity, rest and relaxation. The small group size and the owner's personal attention allows for daily itinerary refinement, based on participants' interests, pacing, and real-time "finds."
For more information, visit www.italiaoutdoorsfoodandwine.com or Kathy Bechtel's blog at www.chefbikeski.com.
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