PROVENCE 2013 Luxury 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

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1 PROVENCE 2013 Luxury 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS Escape to a timeless land of rolling vineyards, lush lavender fields, charming hill top villages, ancient Roman ruins and friendly and hospitable locals in Provence, one of France s gems. Let us weave you into the fabric of this historic and welcoming region. We ll show you the essence of Provence- -the delicious local cuisine, the leisurely pace of life, the magnificent views and of course, our local friends. Enjoy a truffle-themed picnic with wines from the famous Chateau Pesquie, set among lush vineyards. Surely an afternoon delight you will never forget. Explore a bountiful weekly market, a quintessential French experience. Dine on the Mediterranean-inspired delights of aprovençal Master Chef and learn to make your own fine dishes at cooking school. Ride the epic Mount Ventoux and learn why cycling is such a cherished part of French culture. Indulge in the pleasures of Chateau de Rochegude. Rochegude Avignon Experience the thrill of climbing up one of the great classic climbs of the Tour de France--Mont Ventoux. Adieu! Marcia McFadden Provence Tr ip Expert Mazan atlantic ocean Joucas Spain Paris FRANCE Belgium Marseilles Ger S mediterranean s I TREK TRAVEL CYCLING VACATIONS OF A LIFETIME 613 Williamson St., Ste. 207 Madison, WI USA trektravel.com sales@trektravel.com TABLE OF CONTENTS: Welcome & Map v Itinerary v Trip Accommodations v Arriving & Departing v Before & After Recommendations v What s Included v Essential Travel Guide v Page 1

2 ITINERARY DAY 1: Basic Option: Oppede to Joucas Approximately 11 miles with 1,600 feet of climbing Avid Option: Joucas to Lioux Loop Approximately 20 miles with 2,800 feet of climbing Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Avignon Central Train Station (Avignon Central Train Station) at 11:30 AM on the first day of the trip. After a 45 minute shuttle by private coach, your Provençal vacation begins at our favorite local vineyard, where you ll experience the passion and traditions of its people and sample the finesse of its wine. Enjoy a Provençal lunch and a meander through the eccentric cork-screw museum at the delightful Domaine de la Citadelle while our guides explain how the trip will unfold, then get fit to your high-end Trek Domane. Once everyone s bike is ready you ll be off to explore the quiet roads of Provence. You ll have a few kilometers to warm up before you climb up to Ménerbes, the town made famous by Peter Mayle and his book A Year in Provence. You ll continue your ride to Joucas, our home for the next two nights. If you d like to ride further, follow your guides along the breathtaking ride to Lioux, a wild landscape with a dramatic natural stone wall 330 feet high and almost a half-mile long. Tonight, you ll gather with your new traveling companions for a glass of wine, a toast to the week ahead, and your first dinner in Provence. Hotel Le Phebus & Spa Carita DAY 2: Basic Option: Abbaye de Senanque to Roussillon Loop Approximately 28 miles with 3,400 feet of climbing Avid Option: Joucas to Roussillon Loop Approximately 20 miles with 1900 feet of climbing Long Option: Joucas to Roussillon to Buoux Long Loop Approximately 43 miles with 5,700 feet of climbing It is a quintessentially French day! After your café au lait and pain au chocolat, you ll ride to the charming village of Gordes and explore the medieval alleyways. An epicenter of activity for the Romans and the Renaissance, Gordes never ceases to captivate its visitors. As you walk the town, pick up a baguette, saucisson, local chèvre cheese, some meaty olives, and a bottle of wine to savor later today. For the riding focused, pedal to the famous Abbaye de Sénanque - a Cistercian abbey dating to the 12th Century, whose monks still produce lavender and honey - before making your way to the quaint ochre village of Roussillon. Enjoy lunch at the bistro of your choice and enjoy the sweeping views. This afternoon, you ll have the opportunity to enjoy the swimming pool and a pre-dinner wine tasting to open your palate to Michelin-starred Chef Xavier Mathieu s unique interpretation on the flavors of Provence. Personal Cycling Gear: On your trip Trek Travel provides a helmet, flat or caged pedals & a Bontrager saddle. Beyond what is provided on your trip, you are welcome to bring your own gear: a helmet, seat, pedals, shoes, etc. Just label and pack it in a separate, easily accessible bag. Remember also to bring spare cleats for your clipless pedals, as replacements during your trip are difficult to find. Hotel Le Phebus & Spa Carita Page 2

3 ITINERARY DAY 3: Basic Option: Joucas to Gorges de la Nesque to Mazan Approximately 60 miles with 5,600 feet of climbing Short Option: Joucas to Mazan Approximately 26 miles with 2,100 feet of climbing Avid Option: Joucas to Blauvac to Gorges de la Nesque to Mazan Approximately 64 miles with 6,200 feet of climbing Truffle Picnic at Chateau Pesquié Fresh figs and melon grace the breakfast table before heading out to the bikes for an epic ride over the Col de Murs. Straight out of the hotel we begin our climb not steep yet consistent to one of the most epic descents of the day. We ll continue down into the UNESCO recognized National Park of the Luberon and come out below the quaint village of Venasque. A quintessential Provencal village, Venasque is home to the Église Notre Dame, whose first stones date to the 8th century AD. Sometimes you can still hear the choir practicing as you roll through town. Then it s down to our private lunch and wine tasting at the legendary Chateau Pesquié, where evidence has shown vines were cultivated on their grounds 2000 years ago. Franc, our personal chef, will cook us a spectacular lunch under the shadows of the plantains before we arrive in our hotel: the Chateau de Mazan. This Chateau was frequented by the Marquis de Sade, who staged the first outdoor theatre here in If your legs still need some spinning after lunch, take a shot at the breathtaking Gorges de la Nesque: a monstrous limestone massif, cut through by the Nesque River. Some cliffs measure 600 ft high and early Neanderthal remains have been found in the cavernous rock sides. Hotel Chateau de Mazan DAY 4: Basic Option: Mazan to Mount Ventoux to Chateau de Rochegude Approximately 56 miles with 6,500 feet of climbing Short Option: Mazan to Malaucene to Chateau de Rochegude Approximately 35 miles with 1,700 feet of climbing Options abound today from the challenging to the leisurely. Some may meet the challenge of the legendary climb of Mt. Ventoux and secure their bragging rights for dinner. This mountain is the highest point in Provence and has been the theatre for numerous Tour de France duels. Others may choose a more gentle start with a quiet ride through rolling vineyards under the sparkling sun and maybe stop along the way to sample one of the distinctive fruity red wines from the Côtes du Ventoux. You ll lunch on your own in Malaucene as the popes once did. Clement V, while constructing the Avignon palace, stayed in Malaucene and built the ancient Church of Saint Michel. Take some time to explore Malaucene s cobblestone streets and fortified city center. The afternoon ride takes us through Vaison la Romaine (a bustling Roman and Medieval center hundreds of years ago) before reaching the flats that lead us to our hotel. Relaxing by the pool or a refreshing massage back at the lavish Chateau de Rochegude are also options for your afternoon. Tonight enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers in this old fortress that once served as the judicial building for the Avignon popes. *Ventoux is only rideable in favorable weather and based on judgement of the guides Hotel Chateau de Rochegude Rider Level: Rider Type: 2&3 Terrain hilly Average: Daily Distance: 45 miles Average: Daily Climbing 3,100 feet Page 3

4 ITINERARY DAY 5: Basic Option: Rochegude to Grignan Approximately 40 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing Avid Option: Rochegude to Grignan with Visan Loop Approximately 60 miles with 2,200 feet of climbing Another Provençal sunrise gently awakes us accompanied by the smell of baked venoisserie and fresh coffee. Today s loop to the north takes us to the beautiful Chateau de Grignan owned by the Adémar family for generations. In the 1600s, Madame de Sévigné (mother-in-law to the count of Grignan) proceeded to write a series of 28 letters over 30 years to her daughter illustrating the life of the royals. These letters became public and are considered today some of the best compositions of Modern French Literature. We ll have lunch in the town of Grignan before heading back to our hotel for a personalized cooking lesson with the head chef of Chateau Rochegude. Your questions about Provençal cuisine will be answered in short order as we retire to the courtyard for drinks and a toast to our incredible journey in southern France. Dinner will be a gastronomic experience as our chef s talents will express his mastery of the art. Hotel Chateau de Rochegude DAY 6: Basic Option: Uchaux Loop Approximately 16 miles with 600 feet of climbing An optional ride this morning to the village of Uchaux and the Chateau de Massillan give you ample opportunity to spin the legs before bidding adieu to your guides. A late-morning shuttle will bring you to the Avignon train station as you contemplate your next Trek Travel adventure. You ll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Chateau de Rochegude, then take a private coach from the trip end to the Avignon TGV and/or Central Stations (approximately 60 minute shuttle). Here you can take a train to Paris or any other destination of your choice. Please do not book any train before 12:30 PM. Thank Your Guides, By Tipping: Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. Industry standard is 5-10% of the trip price which will be divided by your guide team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service. Page 4

5 ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS LODGING In every region we travel, we uncover the area s best, and most delightful accommodations. On our Provence trip, you will stay in elegant accommodations that offer everything from dramatic views of Mt. Ventoux to succulent meals. Le Phebus & Spa Carita Joucas, France Located between Roussillon and Gordes, Le Phébus is a dry-stone walled farmhouse, where the quaint simple life of days gone by meets pure elegance. Recharge your batteries in the Carita spa or relax in your room, overlooking the tranquil waters of the swimming pool. You ll be treated to the unique delights of Xavier Mathieu a Michelin Star Chef. Drawing his inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, he reinterprets this savory fare into something even more magical! +33 (0) Chateau de Mazan Mazan, France Nestled in the tiny town of Mazan - only a short distance from the base of Mont Ventoux - stands Château de Mazan. Originally built in 1720 during the Regency Period, the Château soon became the property of the notorious Marquis de Sade. It was here that the Marquis organized his first Theatre Festival. In 2001, the new owner, Mme Lhermie, transformed the Château into the quaint Hotel de Charme that welcomes tourists from all over the world. Place Napoleon +33 (0) Chateau de Rochegude Rochegude, France Trip Changes: Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience. A Relais & Châteaux hotel, the elegant Chateau de Rochegude is a magnificent 12th century fortress. It then became the summer residence of the Marquis de Rochegude and was transformed during the Renaissance. Overlooking the vineyards of Cote-du-Rhone, the hotel is luxurious and comfortable, offering an abundance of fantastic amenities. Each room is uniquely decorated. Place du Château +33 (0) DINING Trek Travel scopes out unique and delicious dining locations, and we usually leave at least one meal for you to explore on your own. If you have any special dietary preferences, be sure that you have informed your Trek Travel Trip Consultant before you leave for your trip. We will do our best to accommodate your dietary requests. On our Provence trip, you will enjoy mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine that is cooked to your individual liking a la minute. Most food is locally grown, often organic and exploding with flavor. The food is discovered over a number of courses and the portions are smaller, to enable you to extend your appetite until the third dessert course! You will also enjoy a hearty family-style bistro lunch and our decadent gourmet Trek Travel picnics. Some meals are included in the price of your trip. Breakfast is always served at the hotel, buffet style. Page 5

6 ARRIVING & DEPARTING HOW TO GET THERE Flights We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Paris (CDG). All of the major US airlines and Air France offer nonstop flights from major US cities. From Paris, you may take a TGV train to Avignon, either from the TGV station at Charles de Gaulle Airport or from the Gare de Lyon in Paris. Please consult com to book your tickets. Alternatively, you may fly into Marseilles (MRS) or Nice (NCE) and take a train to Avignon. Avignon (AVN) also has a small airport with local flights. Please note that there are two train stations in Avignon--the TGV and the Centre station. The TGV station is approximately five miles from the town center station. If you happen to arrive at the Avignon TGV train station, there is a frequent shuttle bus service that runs from TGV to the downtown station for a cost of a few euro per person and usually takes 10 min. It also runs about every 20 minutes. Taxis are also available at the TGV train station for the 10-minute ride for approximately 20 euros. Train schedules are available and tickets can be booked directly online at or using our in house travel agent services. (Please note the train schedule changes frequently. Please consult the SNCF site for the most up-todate schedule.) MEETING TIME AND LOCATION Avignon Central Train Station Avignon, France Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Avignon Central Train Station (Avignon Central Train Station) at 11:30 AM on the first day of the trip. After a shuttle by private coach (approximately 1 hour), you will arrive at one of our favorite local wineries. Your first moments in Provence will be spent experiencing the passion of its people, the finesse of its wine, and the beauty of its countryside. A warm-up ride through the countryside will prime your legs and lungs for a taste of the delights and hilly challenges that are in store for the week. Enjoy our Travel Agent Services! For a nominal fee, our dedicated Travel Agent can reserve air travel, hotels, rental cars, train tickets and additional tours and sightseeing before or after your trip. Call Trek Travel at and choose option #2 to speak with our in house Travel Agent. If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Le Phebus & Spa Carita (+33 (0) ), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi to the first night s hotel for approximately 100 euros. DEPARTING TIME AND LOCATION Avignon TGV or Central Train Stations Avignon, France You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Chateau de Rochegude. After saying goodbye to your guides, you will take a private coach from the trip end to the Avignon TGV and/or Central Stations (approximately 60 minute shuttle). Here you can take a train to Paris or any other destination of your choice. Please do not book any train before 12:30 PM. Page 6

7 BEFORE & AFTER PARIS, FRANCE Paris is home to many of the world s best-known monuments and museums. A backdrop of many famous photos, the Arc de Triomphe sits majestically at the top end of the Champs-Elysées. You can go to the observation deck for an expansive view down the world-famous boulevard from Napoléon s huge triumphal arch the largest in the world. The Arc isn t the only site that offers a great view of the city, however. Other monuments with impressive vistas include the view from the white dome of the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre, or from atop the 56 floors of the Tour Montparnasse and, of course, at the summit of the most famous monument in Paris la Tour Eiffel. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel: Hotel La Demeure 51 Boulevard Saint Marcel +33 (0) Lademeure.com ~$210 An oasis in the middle of the vibrant Latin Quarter on the left bank, this family-run hotel will make you feel comfortable and at home. 43 rooms. Hotel Louvre Marsollier Opéra 13, rue Marsollier +33 (0) Hotel.com ~$185 In the heart of historic Paris, located on a quiet street in the center of a prestigious neighborhood, this is a stylish hotel where Oscar Wilde lived in The hotel s website has some useful information and links to activities. Hotel d Angleterre 91, rue La Boétie +33 (0) com ~$130 Last minute question? Your guides will be available 24 hours before the start of your trip. You ll receive their mobile numbers in an one week before the trip start date. In the event you don t receive this , please contact our sales team: sales@trektravel.com or Situated on one of the most famous streets in the world, right in the heart of the Champs-Elysées between the Etoile and Concorde. Page 7

8 BEFORE & AFTER AVIGNON, FRANCE If you are planning on extending your trip and exploring the walled city of Avignon, there are a number of must sees. Palais des Papes stands as the largest Gothic palace in Europe. With the arrival of the popes in the 14th century, for a period known as the Avignon Papacy, the Palais des Papes was home to the Sovereign Pontiffs. One must also visit the nearby Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct that was used to bring Uzès spring water to Nîmes. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel: Cloître St. Louis 20, rue du Portail-Boquier +33 (0) com ~$280 A Jesuit monastery built in 1611, this building was converted to a hotel in the early 1900s. A walled courtyard, lined with old plane trees, makes for a relaxing setting. It has a small rooftop pool and is one block from the central train station. 80 rooms. Hotel d Europe 12, Place Crillon +33 (0) ~$425 A former 16th century residence of the Marquis de Graveson, Hotel d Europe once hosted Napoléon. It is tucked away in a walled courtyard and decorated with antiques. The rooms are mostly large with two suites that overlook the Palais des Papes. The hotel boasts one of the finest restaurants in Avignon. 44 rooms. Hotel de l Horloge 1 rue Félicien David +33 (0) Horloge.com ~$165 Thank To call Your the Guides, trip anything By Tipping: short of amazing is an Gratuities understatement. for your Trek Everything Travel guides was as are promised not included and in the your surprises trip price. that Industry were standard thrown in is 5-10% along of the the way trip put price it right which will over be divided the top. by your guide Jim team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service. In the heart of Avignon, and its myriad quaint cobblestone streets. Located a stone s throw from the Palais des Papes, the hotel de l Horloge offers a charm all its own. 67 rooms. Page 8

9 WHAT S INCLUDED INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE Dining & Lodging Unique accommodations during the Provence trip Daily breakfast, 3 lunches, social hour on some evenings, 4 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for each day s ride Support Dedicated Trip Consultants to answer all of your questions and aid you in choosing a vacation that suits you sent to you one week prior to your trip with guide contact details, meet time & location and any final information The knowledge, support and camaraderie of experienced guides Daily route support, detailed route guide, highlighted map, van support All transportation and luggage transfers during the trip Gear The use of a Trek Domane 5.9 carbon road bike, or Trek Domane 5.9 Women s Specific Design carbon road bike (limited selection), or Trek 7.6 FX hybrid bike (visit com/ridethebest.php for more details) Complimentary Trek Travel merchandise Bike computer, a map case, and stocked seat pack for use during your trip Two Trek Travel water bottles for you to keep Choice of multiple stem lengths, seat posts and saddles for a custom fit The Best Bikes, Period: Bike vacations are more fun when bikes ride and fit well. With the best in the industry and our knowledgeable and well trained guides our bikes always fit and ride smoothly. Enjoy $300 off a select Trek bike after you travel with us. Activities Gratuities for all scheduled restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip. Cooking School 2 Wine Tastings French Market NOT INCLUDED Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations Lodging before and after the trip Personal items purchased during the trip Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure. Gratuities for your Trek Travel Guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership.industry standard is for each individual guest to tip the guide team 5-10% of the trip price. Page 9

10 ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE WHAT S NEXT? If you are ready to book call at or fill out on our online booking form. If you already booked, there is a lot of great information below regarding getting ready for your trip and things like upgrade bikes, trip insurance and housekeeping items that you ll want to ensure are completed on time. THE ESSENTIAL LINKS UPGRADES Upgrade to the Trek Madone 6.5 road bike, electric assist bikes, carbon wheels and Garmins. TRIP INSURANCE Protecting your trip investment from unforeseen circumstances that might affect your trip. IN HOUSE TRAVEL AGENT Allow us to arrange your pre and post trip hotels, air travel, trains and other activities for a nominal fee. TRAINING Our partner, Vision Quest Training, offers custom training programs to prepare any rider for their trip. RIDER LEVEL We have trips for every type of rider. Find the best fit with our rider type explained section. CONNECTIONS CLUB Our Connections Club rewards repeat guests with trip discounts, complimentary upgrades and more! CYCLING GEAR TO PACK Use this comprehensive packing list to make sure you bring just what you need for on and off the bike. OFF THE BIKE APPAREL With your bike fashion covered, here are suggestions for off the bike apparel for your trip. FAQS Read a lot of great information about your bike tour in our easy to navigate FAQ section. REFERRAL REWARDS Bring a friend on your Trek Travel cycling vacation and earn a $200 referral bonus each time! CANCELLATION POLICY Be informed rather than surprised. Trip cancellation policies differ so take a moment to look yours over. Cancellation Policy: If you must cancel your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, there is a cancellation fee of $100; between days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 25% of the original trip price; between days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 50% of the original trip price; there is no refund for cancelling a trip less than 30 days prior to departure. If you choose to change your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, you may do so with no fee. From days, there will be a $1,000 administrative fee. If you choose to change your trip within 60 days of the original trip start, the cancellation policy outlined above will apply. Please be aware that it is only possible to move to another trip within one year of the original trip departure date. Page 10