ANDALUCIA 2014 Explorer 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

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1 ANDALUCIA 2014 Explorer 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS Andalucía is renowned for its delectable tapas, Jerez sherry and Flamenco, but its allure transcends even these national icons. An area of exquisite beauty boasting vast natural reserves and parks, Spain s southernmost region is blessed with a rich and diverse landscape - the canvas upon which many ancient cultures have lived and left their mark. Pueblos Blancos, the ubiquitous white villages inhabited by generations of the same families for centuries lie scattered across hills and mountains; Moorish customs inform art, architecture and cuisine, with Roman, Greek and many other influences coalescing to create the physical and cultural heritage of modern Andalucía. Discover the limestone formations and unspoiled, forested terrain of the Natural Parks of Sierra de Grazelema and El Torcal Experience the varied flavors of Andalucía Jamón Ibérico (ham), refreshing gazpacho, complex olive oils, Jerez sherry, and all manner of tapas. Visit a 200-year-old functioning olive oil press and learn why Andalucía is the world s largest producer of olive oil Sevilla Take a walking tour of Ronda and learn about the rich Roman and Moorish history of Andalucía. Engage with the locals overflowing with passion, energy and charm. Their enthusiasm is infectious! Adios! Leanne Welbourn Andalucia Tr ip Expert Ronda Antequera Málaga Portugal Madrid Sevilla Morocco SPAIN France mediterranean sea Algeria 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: Zahara to Ronda Approximately 22 miles with 2,283 feet of climbing Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Sevilla Santa Justa Train Station (Avenida Kansas City, S/N, Sevilla, Spain) at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. After a 1 1/2 hour shuttle you ll arrive at Molino El Vinculo, a 200-year old olive oil mill, still functioning today. Following a tour and tasting of olive oils and wine, you will enjoy a gourmet picnic prepared by your guides. After lunch, your guides will fit and familiarize you with your bike for the week. You will then head down toward the beautiful village of Zahara. From here, you will pedal along the deep reservoir which regulates the Guadalete River and irrigates the local farmlands, while taking in splendid views of the Grazelema mountain range. On your route, you will cross provinces from Cádiz to Málaga, before arriving at your hotel in stunning Ronda. The Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria perches on the precipice of the Tajo valley below. Tonight, convene for drinks as your guides give you an overview of the week to come, before dining together at the hotel restaurant with fresh local specialties and an impressive view. Hotel Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria DAY 2: Basic Option: Ronda to Alcalá del Valle via Setenil de las Bodegas Approximately 36 miles with 2,979 feet of climbing Avid Option: Ronda to Alcalá del Valle via Olvera Approximately 58 miles with 5,485 feet of climbing Short Option: Ronda to Alcala del Valle with Shuttle Approximately 25 miles Today s ride takes you north of Ronda into the hills of the Sierra de las Salinas, toward the unique town of Setenil de las Bodegas. Named for the once flourishing wine and olive production, now largely known for its architecture - structures built into the limestone caves within the narrow gorge of the Trejo river. Some houses are literally built inside a tunnel! After exploring Setenil, you will continue on to Alcalá del Valle where you will lunch together at a celebrated restaurant that focuses on fresh local produce and features a extensive wine list. From there you have the choice to ride or shuttle back to Ronda. If you feel up to it, extend your ride toward the distinctive town of Olvera before making your way home. Tonight you will get to learn about the rich cultural and historical significance of Ronda on a guided walking tour with Trek Travel s local friend and expert. After which, explore the tastes of Ronda on your own. 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 Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria Page 2

3 ITINERARY DAY 3: Basic Option: Ronda to Grazelema Loop Approximately 36 miles with 2,979 feet of climbing Avid Option: Ronda to Grazelema via Puerta las Palomas Loop Approximately 55 miles with 5,549 feet of climbing Set in Andalucía s Sierra de Grazelema Natural Park, today s ride is a challenging but scenic route that changes from farmer s fields to pine forests and rugged limestone formations. For those wanting even more of a challenge, set your sights on the Puerto de las Paloma which cuts through two mountains and will add over 2500 feet of climbing to your day. No matter which route you choose, your group will convene in Grazelema, a town which most consider one of the most picturesque pueblos blancos of the region. Here you will enjoy lunch, where a wide variety of restaurant options await. Explore the town before getting back on the bike or choose to shuttle back to the hotel. Once at the hotel, take advantage of your free time by enjoying the hotel s spa and workout room, or some quiet time in the large gardens. Tonight you have another opportunity to wander through Ronda, visiting the sites and perhaps pick up some regional gifts to take back home. Hotel Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria DAY 4: Basic Option: El Burgo to El Chorro to Antequera with Shuttle Approximately 36 miles with 3,066 feet of climbing Avid Option: Ronda to El Chorro to Antequera Approximately 54 miles with 4,580 feet of climbing Experience dramatic changes in landscapes today as you leave Ronda. First making your way toward El Burgo, traveling over the Puerto del Viento. Whether you choose to ride the pass or shuttle there, you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The road meanders through the valley to the town below, along the river and fields of grazing sheep and through the province s lake district toward El Chorro. Here you will see the jaw-dropping Guadalhorce River gorge, made legendary by El Camino del Rey a precariously perched catwalk pinned to the gorge walls more than 330 feet above the river. Enjoy a lunch of delicious local specialties before taking to the hills of the Valle de Abdalajís and pedaling on to your hotel. Convento La Magdelena is a converted 16th century convent, now a comfortable 5-star hotel. You will enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers and guides while taking in the beautiful setting surrounding your home for the next 2 nights. Rider Level: Rider Type: 3 Terrain hilly Average: Daily Distance: 32 miles Average: Daily Climbing 2,900 feet Hotel Hotel Convento la Magdelena Page 3

4 ITINERARY DAY 5: Basic Option: El Torcal to Antequera Loop Approximately 30 miles with 3,324 feet of climbing Avid Option: El Torcal to Antequera via Almogia Loop Approximately Up to 50 miles with 4,542 feet of climbing Hiking at El Torcal: El Torcal Natural Park Today you ride to El Torcal - an area of striking natural beauty dominated by some of Europe s most impressive limestone landscapes. Beginning with rolling hills, you ll then tackle the climb to the entrance of the Torcal Nature Reserve. From there, you ll hike through to the heart of the park and some of the most dramatic limestone structures. For riders keen for more saddle time, guides can suggest further riding options. After the hike you ll continue on to historic Antequera - a town dating back at least 5000 years and locally called the heart of Andalucía where cobbled streets are home to a collection of churches in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Enjoy lunch in one of the great restaurants in town before making your own way back to the hotel, to relax in the spa or maybe enjoy a round of golf at the local club. Tonight you ll raise a glass or two to toast newfound friends before finishing the night in true Andalucían style with a private flamenco performance. Olé! Hotel Hotel Convento la Magdelena DAY 6: Basic Option: El Torcal Return Approximately 15 miles with 1,543 feet of climbing Take this morning to sleep in and relax, savoring a long breakfast or perhaps go out for one last earlymorning spin in the region. Challenge yourself with an out-and-back ride to El Torcal from the opposite side. Whichever you choose, you will enjoy your morning how you like, before taking the shuttle to Málaga. You ll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Hotel Convento la Magdelena. You ll shuttle 1 hour to the Málaga Train station, arriving at approximately 12:00 PM. Please allow adequate connection time for any ongoing travel to accommodate possible traffic delays. 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 Andalucia trip, you will stay in two truly unique and scenic hotels one perched atop a precipice overlooking the Tajo valley, a centrally located sanctuary in the heart of Ronda, the other a converted 16th-century convent, surrounded by olive groves and commanding stunning views of the area s natural parks. Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria Ronda, Spain The town of Ronda is a highlight in Andalucía, seeped in Moorish and Spanish history. It is dramatically situated on both sides of the El Tajo gorge, connected by an 18th century bridge spanning the chasm. Newly renovated, your hotel is centrally located in Ronda yet feels like a tranquil rural property. It is surrounded by pine forest and large gardens, and sits on the precipice of the valley, affording stunning views of the countryside below. c/ Jerez, 25 Ronda Hotel Convento la Magdelena Antequera, Spain Originally a 16th century convent, this property has been transformed into an exceptional hotel experience featuring full spa facilities and restored original frescoes. The setting cannot be matched as it is surrounded by olive groves and the picturesque El Torcal natural park reserve and mountain range. The chef comes from the renowned culinary academy of el Bulli and provides exceptional dinner experiences, taking the traditional cuisine of Andalucía to new heights. 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. Urb.Santa Catalina s/n, Antequera , 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 Andalucia trip, you will sample the finest local delicacies from a region where dining is both tradition and event! From the innovative and traditional dishes of top local chefs, to the agony of deciding which delicious tapas to try to a gourmet picnic prepared by your Trek Travel guides - you are invited to a celebration of the very best of Andalucía 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 Sevilla (SVQ) and then take a taxi or the public bus outside the arrivals level and transfer to Sevilla Santa Justa Station. Alternatively, you can fly into Madrid (MAD) or Málaga (AGP) and take the AVE train to Sevilla Santa Justa station (approximately hours) which runs regularly. Tickets can be purchased in advance through Rail Europe at raileurope.com. For detailed train schedules, consult Málaga (AGP). From Málaga Maria Zambrano train station, there is a regular train to the airport that arrives across from the Terminal 3 arrivals area, which takes only 8 minutes. For more information, consult MEETING TIME AND LOCATION Sevilla Santa Justa Train Station Sevilla, Spain Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Sevilla Santa Justa Train Station (Avenida Kansas City, S/N, Sevilla, Spain) at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You ll then shuttle 1 1/2 hours to Zahara de la Sierra, to a 200-year old olive oil mill (molino) where you will enjoy a gourmet Trek Travel picnic along with a tour and tasting. Please have your first day cycling clothes and riding gear easily accessible, separate from your luggage. After lunch your guides will do personal bike fittings then start your day s ride along the reservoir and, while overlooking the Sierra de Grazelema, towards Ronda. 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, Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria ( ), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi from Sevilla Santa Justa train station to your ride start or first hotel will take about 1 1/2 to 2 hours and will cost around 175 Euros. DEPARTING TIME AND LOCATION Málaga Train Station Málaga, Spain You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Hotel Convento la Magdelena. You ll shuttle 1 hour to the Málaga Train station, arriving at approximately 12:00 PM. Please allow adequate connection time for any ongoing travel to accommodate possible traffic delays. Page 6

7 BEFORE & AFTER SEVILLA The capital of Andalucía is beautiful Sevilla, a thriving city full of historical significance and modern life. The grand Cathedral and the exquisite Real Alcázar Palace are not to be missed. Visit the Museo del Baile Flamenco to learn the history of this gorgeous and popular music and dance. Enjoy an endless choice of tapas bars, making sure to hit the Santa Cruz and Alfalfa neighborhoods. Be sure to take a stroll along the top of the Parasol Metropol at sunset, a contemporary sculptural building within the old city where you can take in the views from above as well as seeing archeological finds below. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel: Corral del Rey Corral del Rey, ~$390 Treat yourself to this very intimate boutique hotel wonderfully hidden in the attractive Alfalfa district yet only five minutes walk from Sevilla s famous Cathedral and Alcázar Palace. The mix of design elements from Roman marble columns and wood beams to the clean linens and rain showers make this such a enticing stay, you might not want to leave your room to explore the city. Hospes Las Casas del Rey Baeza Plaza Jesus De La Redención, www. Hospes.com ~$210 Mixing elements of Arabic and European styles makes this hotel pure Andalucía. Tucked away in the desirable Santa Cruz district, you can enjoy the fresh interiors of your room or go up to the rooftop patio to enjoy the lounge area by the pool, before heading out your door to a great variety of restaurants, bars and city sights, all close to the hotel. 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 Hotel Amadeus c/ Farnesio ~$130 Amadeus is a unique, musically-themed hotel set within an 18th-century manor house in the central Santa Cruz neighborhood. Although recently refurbished, the hotel has retained much of its original charm while adding modern touches. All rooms are uniquely decorated and the property also features a rooftop patio with views of practically the entire historical center. Feel free to try out any of the instruments available or listen to one of the hosted concerts. Or retreat, undisturbed, to the comforts of your room. Page 7

8 BEFORE & AFTER MÁLAGA The end of the trip brings you to the vibrant coastal city of Málaga, coined the capital of the Costa del Sol. Filled with great restaurants and bars, it is also making its mark as an art and cultural destination with many museums, contemporary art galleries, and significant historical monuments. Be sure to see the magnificent Cathedral, the Moorish castle Alcazaba and the remains of a Roman ampitheatre. There are 2 museums dedicated one of the most famous artists of the 20th century, Málaga-born Pablo Picasso. Consider using Málaga as a hub from which to take day trips to Granada, Gibraltar, nearby coastal towns and perhaps even Morocco. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel: Room Mate Lola c/ Casas de Campos, ~$110 This highly recommended boutique hotel located in the old city center is just 10 minutes walk from the Picasso museum. Built in 2006 and designed by Lorenzo Castillo, it offers rooms of various types, incorporating both modern and antique elements. Hotel Molina Lario c/ Molina Lario, ~$185 Opposite the cathedral of Málaga and close to the city s top museums and attractions, this wellappointed 4 star hotel is a set of three buildings joined together, two of them dating back to the nineteenth century. Relax in beautifully designed rooms or enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop terrace with its stellar views! Hotel Vincci Málaga c/ Pacífico ~$241 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. If the Mediterranean seaside is calling you, and you prefer beachfront properties to the city center, this clean, modern hotel is a perfect solution. Located just a few miles west of the historical district, it offers you an easy beach getaway. All rooms are bright and well-appointed but be sure to ask for a room with a view of the sea! Page 8

9 WHAT S INCLUDED INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE Dining & Lodging Unique accommodations during the Andalucia trip Daily breakfast, 2 lunches, social hour on some evenings, 3 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. Tour and tasting at Molino El Vinculo, 200 year old olive oil press Historical walking tour in Ronda 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, and carbon wheels. 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. TT CLUB Our TT 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