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December 28, 2010

Exploring Argentina DuVine Style!

Filed under: Active Travel, Adventure Travel, Argentina, Bike, Patagonia, South America — Tags: , , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 12:19 pm

Here I am…back in Buenos Aires, the first stop on my new adventure to scout out another DuVine Adventures trip in this fascinating and diverse country. Let me first preface by saying…what a city! I keep forgetting how amazing this place is…it’s like this incredible mélange of Paris and L.A. wrapped into one ‘best-of-both’ whole. I swear, people actually walk differently here… as if the sexiness of the tango is infused in their every step.

Tango

Intrigued…I decided that, while here, I needed to delve into this sexy world of tango for myself …and see if I, too, could be transformed by the dance. So I asked around to find the best place to teach me a lesson or two. Let’s just say…it isn’t easy folks. It really is a difficult dance to “get”.  Honestly, I think it confirmed my assumption that perhaps it really is some sort of innate quality that the people of Buenos Aires possess.

Frustrated that I wasn’t able to add a little something to my swagger, I headed off to explore a whole kind of different world in Patagonia. Remember…Argentina is the 5th largest country in the world with an incredible diversity in both topography and culture – each region an entity unto itself.  Leaving the cosmopolitan city behind…I flew south to discover the natural beauty of the Bariloche country.

Making the grade...

If Buenos Aires is a unique blend of Paris and L.A…Bariloche is the Aspen of South America. This is the international resort spot to be – to ski, mountain bike, raft and hike, aka adventure travel. And (literally and figuratively) a breath of fresh air – clean, crisp and refreshing!

After a rather disappointing visit to the Llao Llao Resort, I found THE spot! Peuma Hue. Don’t get me wrong, Llao Llao is situated on an absolutely gorgeous piece of property and is a top notch resort, but it is far too enormous and lacks personality. As you know, it is all about a personalized experience for me…I don’t want to feel like I’m just another tourist. I need something unique and intimate. And Llao Llao just wasn’t it.

Exploring Bariloche

Peuma Hue, on the other hand, is exactly what I’m looking for! Set on a lake at the base of the mountains, the Lodge sits on 500 acres and includes an organic farm and yoga studio. What a find! This is why you come Bariloche! Aside from telling you about the gorgeous 2 hour horseback ride I took into the surrounding mountains, I’d rather keep the rest of my adventure here a secret …as you really need to experience this place for yourself! Yes…it’s really is that good.

Honestly, folks – this tour is going to be amazing! Keep this one on your radar. I’m still in the process of crafting it just right…but you will be more than pleased with the result!

Check out the view...

I’ll leave you with one last tempting bite… Villa la Angostura.  One hour from Bariloche near the base of the Andes with Nahuel Huapi Lake to the west, and the Correntoso Lake to the east …this place not only offers you all the bests of Bariloche (mt. biking, horseback riding, etc)…but it is THE spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. (They were actually hosting a World Kiteboarding Championships here while I was visiting ). The ideal quiet mountain village where you can relax and explore the natural beauty of the Patagonian countryside

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December 26, 2010

Giro d’Italia 2011: you won’t want to miss this!

Filed under: Bike, Giro d'Italia, Italy, Staff Posts, Tuscany, bicycle racing — Tags: , , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 11:59 pm

Cycling fans who haven’t been asleep (or French) for the past few years know that the Giro d’Italia has consistently provided the most drama of any Grand Tour over this period.  Since Angelo Zomegnan became the director of the Giro in 2006, the race that has traditionally lived in the shadow of the more famous Tour de France, has really stepped into the cycling spotlight.  Zomegnan has transformed the Giro into the sport’s most dramatic stage by creating brutal routes, giving fans what they want: the sadistic pleasure of watching racers suffer.  Of course, this bravado on the part of the Giro Director has led to some tensions with the riders who, led by Lance Armstrong, famously refused to push themselves through a treacherous circuit of Milan in 2009.

Along the 2010 course...

Love him or hate him, you can’t argue with the results.  The difficult nature of Zomegnan’s routes make it impossible for the big teams to set the pace, catch the breakaways and control the race as often happens in the Tour de France.  Instead, each stage is an exciting free-for-all, as favorites get dropped and complete unknowns emerge with the maglia rosa (pink leader’s jersey). In 2010, 20 different riders won individual stages in the 21 stage race and 8 wore the pink jersey.  In a breakaway on the 11th stage, 50 riders got away from the peloton gaining a 13 minute advantage and throwing the general classification into total confusion.  For a few days the cycling world was turned upside-down as virtual unknowns, David Arroyo and Richie Porte, held on to the pink jersey with the big names struggling to catch up.  In the end, Ivan Basso managed to storm back to the top place he held on the podium in 2006, but only after a hard-fought series of stages over some of Italy’s toughest mountain climbs.

2010 Giro d'Italia

Here at DuVine we had put this stage on our calendar almost a year before when the rumor emerged that this stretch of dirt road would be included in the 2010 Giro.  We had always wanted to create a tour revolving around the Giro and given the fact that our popular Tuscany bicycle tour already visited Montalcino, all the pieces were now in place.  You couldn’t have asked for a better inaugural Giro d’Italia bicycle tour.  After a few days of riding the race route from Volterra, our group arrived in Montalcino early on race day to secure prime spots at the finish line.  It had been raining on the racers non-stop since their departure from Carrara turning the final stretch of dirt road into a ribbon of mud.  From our vantage point in front of the maxi-screens, we watched with growing anticipation as Cadel Evans and Alexander Vinokourov battled for the lead.  Multiple crashes and the horrid conditions had already eliminated any semblance of an organized peloton and riders struggled up the 15% grades of the muddy approach to Montalcino in groups of ones and twos.  Then a buzz of excitement swept down the town’s narrow cobblestone main street as Vinokourov and Evans emerged from the mist, covered in mud.  As they bumped past I swear I could see mud even on Vino’s tongue as he gasped for the strength to overcome Evans.  But, his gasps were in vain as Evans pulled away on the final climb to the finish for a two-second victory.  Then, like watching a defeated army returning home, we stood in awe as small groups of riders continued to straggle in, their colorful jerseys and space-age bikes dulled by the ever-present Tuscan mud.  Angelo Zomegnan certainly hadn’t let us down.

Cadel just before his stage win...

After driving back to the luxurious warmth of our Tuscan villa we rushed to regroup for dinner, everyone wanting to talk about the cycling spectacle we had just witnessed.  We all agreed that it was the best sporting event we had ever seen, “better than Game Seven and the Superbowl combined” someone said. Italian TV commentators couldn’t come up with enough superlatives.  As the dust (or mud in this case) settled, the cycling world quickly agreed that Stage 7 of 2010’s Giro would go down in history and was easily one of the most exciting days of riding in the last 15 years.  I feel extremely fortunate to have witnessed it. Thanks Angelo.

This year, Mr. Zomegnan is angling for another historic mudfest. Like 2010’s Stage 7, this year’s 5th stage starts on the Tuscan coast, crossing nearly 200 km of classic countryside before turning to dirt roads as it approaches the finish in the towering hilltown of Orvieto.  Again, DuVine Adventures’ Giro d’Italia bicycle trip will feature scenic cycling in the Tuscan hills, riding much of this route on the days before the epic 5th stage.

Scenic cycling in the Tuscan hills

Then, as the riders leave from Piombino, we will cycle the final stretch of dirt road followed by the final climbs into Orvieto.  This year we have further upgraded the finish-line experience, procuring VIP passes for our guests to ensure the best views along with access to the riders after the race.  In the evening we will meet the Liquigas team in town for autographs and pictures and the next day we will again be able to enjoy VIP access to the pre-race excitement as the Giro departs from Orvieto.  As part of a special offer, we are also able to secure up to 5 spots in the Mavic official support cars where guests will be able to follow this stage up close and see the Giro as only insiders do.  For more information, please visit:   http://duvine.com/giro-bike-tour.html or contact Tom Coppock at tom@duvine.com or 888-396-5383

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December 21, 2010

DuVine Adventures Opens New Office in Brazil

Filed under: Active Travel, Adventure Travel, Bike, Brazil — Tags: , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 4:12 pm

We are happy to announce that marketing efforts to the travel agency community will be a top priority in 2011.  After a stellar 2010 season with revenues up by over 40%, we are enhancing our marketing efforts with a new and important affiliation, focusing on Latin American sales.

“The timing is perfect for DuVine Adventures to expand it’s presence in Brazil”, explains DuVine President Andy Levine.  For the past 10 years we have seen a steady increase in our luxury bicycle tour and adventure travel business from Brazil and we want to make it easier on the Brazilian traveler to book their adventure tours with DuVine.  “Our goal is to increase our guest count from Brazil in 2011 from 10% of our total business to 15%” says Levine while being confident that establishing this office will allow us to do so.

The opening of the DuVine office at Rua Cônego Eugênio Leite, 920 – Pinheiros allows travel agents and travelers’ the opportunity to communicate with DuVine in Portuguese, as well as in their own time zone, and receive customized marketing materials in Portuguese such as a brochure, website and tour documents.  DuVine Adventures will be celebrating the opening of this office April 6-10, 2011 when attending Travel Week Sao Paulo with their newly hired sales and marketing firm for the industry, JG Black Book of Travel.

“DuVine’s investment in servicing the travel agency community in North America, Latin America and Australia will meet unsurpassed levels in 2011” says Alisa de Gaspe Beaubien, Vice President of DuVine Adventures.  DuVine has always welcomed business from the agency community and “with this major investment for 2011 we are confident that our expansive product line, as well as our unmatched flexibility to operate custom tours, will allow us to succeed in this arena” comments de Gaspe Beaubien.

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Andy’s Top 10 Hotels of 2010

Filed under: Active Travel, Adventure Travel, Bike, Ecuador, France, Galapagos Islands, Italy, Jordan, Skiing, Switzerland, Top 10 lists, Tuscany, Umbria — Tags: , , , , , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 3:33 pm

Welcome to our third installment in the DuVine Adventures Top 10 for 2010.  Our first two Top 10’s were Top 10 Bike Rides and Top 10 wines and now we bring you our Top 10 Hotels for 2010.

“SLEEP” is an equal and integral part of the DuVine equation for luxury bicycle tours and adventure travel…so when it comes to our choice of hotels, we select not only the “must-see” places of interest, but also properties that provide a real sense of local charm. Remember…DuVine style is all about the experience…be it on the bike, while dining, sampling the local potables, or relaxing for the evening. Hence, I take great care when deciding which properties measure up our standards. And although each may be special in its own right…I’d like to share where a few of my favorites places to stay have been this year.
I guess you could call these my top 10 hotels of the year…(in no particular order of preference…)

Orto degli Angeli

Orto degli Angeli in Umbria
Imagine lying back in bed after a wonderful day cycling through the Sagrantino vineyards and a delicious dinner in a restaurant located in the remains of a Roman amphitheater and looking up to see an original Frescoe painted on the ceiling above you? That’s right…our ancient villa, Orto degli Angeli, with the original noble family still in residence, is a museum in itself. This historic hotel where Francesco Antonini dei Conti Angeli Nieri Mongalli’s family has lived since 1788 integrates architectural elements and original building materials from the ancient world and overlooks the ruins of an ancient Roman theatre and temple. A vaulted underground room, which was a part of the two thousand year old theatre, serves as the dining room of the restaurant, creating an unforgettable dining experience. You will sleep like royalty in this unique property.  You will stay here on our bicycle tour in Umbria, Italy.

Flocon de Sel

Flocon de Sel in Megeve, France
What can I say? When I first read the mission statement from the owners of this hotel – “to stay unique, to give to our guests the possibility to make the most of the tranquility of the place, with luxury services offered in a convivial atmosphere, without ostentation and at the same time help with exploring the landscape, this unique environment which is ours” – I knew this place would be DuVine! The service is flawless, the location – set in the mountain pastures with commanding views of the valley below – is incredibly intimate and the 2 star rated Michelin restaurant definitely put this on the top 10 list! This is available on our bicycle tours in the Alps.

Villa Beccaris in Piedmont
What makes a hotel special? Is it the personal connections made with the staff, the incredible views out your window, the linens, the impeccable and attentive service, the amount of luxury services offered? Or is it a just a feeling you get when you enter a room? Perhaps sometimes that is all it takes! When you walk into the limonaia , the glassed-in Belle Epoque breakfast room with views over Barolo vineyards at Villa Beccaris, you will understand why this hotel ranks on the list! You will stay here on our bicycle tour in Umbria, Italy. You will stay here on our bicycle tour in Piedmont, Italy.

Hotel Adriana

Hotel Adriana in Hvar
Not only is it Croatia’s first and only member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World… but the views from the Adriana  – a panorama that includes the Cathedral, the Arsenal, the Venetian piazza, the yacht harbor and the bay all in one – are absolutely stunning! Talk about an island paradise… and the Top bar is the place to be! Location, location, location. Oh…and a little bit of St. Tropez and Ibiza all in one. You will stay here on our bicycle tour in Croatia.

 

Bastide de Gordes in Provence
Talk about the perfect perch! Bastide de Gordes sits high above the Luberon valley offering some absolutely gorgeous views. What better way to spend an afternoon post-ride than lounging by the pool admiring the scenery? or better yet…at the world-famous Spa Sisley located on the property? Yes, definitely a must on the list. You will stay here on our bicycle tour in Provence, France.

Bastide de Gordes

Relais San Maurizio in Piedmont
There is no place that makes you feel as if you are on top of the world [literally and figuratively] like the San Maurizio! Surrounded by the Langhe hills with panoramic vineyards views, it is the perfect vantage point for a journey of the colors, fragrances and flavors of Piedmont. Originally a 17th century monastery, the property has been transformed into a stunning and discreet resort…one that gives new meaning the word exclusivity! Oh, and did I mention the vinotherapy spa Caudalie? It is epic zen - italiano style! You will stay here on our bicycle tour in Piedmont, Italy.

La Chiusa

 La Chiusa in Tuscany
This charming little relais and restaurant holds a very special place in our hearts. La Chiusa is the product of the lifelong work of two of our dear friends, Dania and Umberto. It was Umberto’s vision that transformed his family’s medieval olive mill into a stunning luxury hotel. In many of the hotel’s fifteen rooms, you can find old millstones and other reminders of the building’s agricultural past.  Umberto is a true Tuscan man and makes sure his guests get anything they want. Every afternoon you can find him overseeing his splendid staff from his table under the pergola where he will be happy to share a bottle of prosecco, fresh grapes from his vineyards, and the story of how he brought running water to the town.Dania is a world-renowned Tuscan chef and the Ristorante La Chiusa, where we eat on the first night of the tour, is her baby. She has devoted a lifetime to preserving traditional Tuscan cuisine, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients and age- old methods. Her meals are unforgettable. She always makes a point of coming to our table after the meal and giving us a tour of the kitchen or autographing copies of her cookbook. There is also an extraordinary selection of local wines. You will stay here on our bicycle tour in Tuscany, Italy.

Chalet Royalp

Chalet Royalp in Villars
Imagine being nestled in at your 1,300 ft ‘”base camp” of Villars sur Ollon in the heart of the Vaud Alps looking out from your private balcony at the idyllic setting that spans in front of you – featuring a spectacular panorama extending from Lake Geneva to Mont Blanc.  This charming chalet is the perfect ski “lodge” …the perfect combination of a typical mountain lodge atmosphere with the exquisite elegance of an exclusive high end resort. Oh, and it’s also the first ski-in and ski-out hotel in the Vaudauoise Alpes – offering direct access to the ski resort. You will stay here on our ski trip in the Alps.

Iguana Crossing on Isabella Island, Galapagos
Staying here is like escaping to your own private island – scarcely populated except for the flora and incredible variety of fauna to be found – including, of course, the ubiquitous marine iguanas. Located in between the pristine white sand beaches with their emerald green water and directly behind a wildlife-filled lagoon, this spot couldn’t be more special. Even better, as  you relax in your room, you can listen to the soothing sound of surf and watch the volcano beyond the wetlands come alive.  Yes, a true island getaway awaits you at Iguana Crossing! This hotel is available on our adventure travel Galapagos Islands tour.

Beach at Iguana Crossing

Taybet Zaman in Petra, Jordan
Step back in time, but not in luxury at this uniquely modern interpretation of 19th century Jordan – complete with an exotic dash of Arab indulgence. As you walk through the village and its ancient stone structures, you feel transported back to the old village, complete with the scents and sounds of the market…a very sensory experience. Staying at Taybet Zama, with its unique blend of modern elegance and rustic charm, is unlike any other typical hotel stay…especially when you consider that just outside your window is a view unlike any other…one of the modern wonders of the world, Petra. You will stay here on our adventure travel tour in Jordan.

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December 16, 2010

Andy’s Top 10 Wines on 2010 DuVine tours

Filed under: Bike, Bordeaux, California, Israel, Italy, Piedmont, Sonoma Valley, Top 10 lists, Wine Tasting, burgundy — Tags: , , , , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 1:16 pm

Continuing with my top 10 of 2010… I thought in celebration of the holiday spirit,  I would share my favorite spirits of the year (well…wine, actually…but nonetheless). Here’s a look at the top wines that I sampled on tour this year…Cheers!

Giovanni Manzone Barolo Riserva 1998
Aaah, the Barolos of Piedmont are always top on my list of favorite wines…and after enjoying this vintage with a Brasato di Barolo (beef braised in Barolo and slow-cooked for hours until it is tender enough to eat with a spoon) while on tour this past August, it definitely ranks in my top 10 of 2010! Ask Mauro to take you into his private tasting room..and be ready to buy the Barolo 1998. Found on Bicycle Tours in Piedmont, Italy.

With Guy-Petrus Lignac at his estate - Chateau Guadet

Château Guadet 1996, St. Emilion, Bordeaux
There is nothing like a glass of this Grand Cru paired with a delicious roast lamb…or tender steak to please the palate. And a visit to this small vineyard situated on the limestone plateau of Saint Emilion is a rare treat! If you can spend 10 minutes with Guy Petrus…you will be changed person. Found on Bicycle Tours in Bordeaux, France.

Domaine Vincent Girardin Puligny Montrachet Pucelles
It’s not an easy task trying to rate my favorite Burgundian Premier Cru that we encounter on our tours…but this year I was quite impressed with this Chardonnay. Pair with chicken with a light mushroom cream sauce and you’ll see what I mean! As they say..tastes like white flowers.  I guess I need to eat more white flowers! Found on Bicycle Tours in Burgundy, France.

Parigot & Richard, Rose Cremant Burgundy
Who doesn’t love a delightful glass of bubbly? This sparkling rose is not only a stellar example of a classic Cremant, but is also quite versatile and, with its salmon color due to its brief contact with the Pinot Noir skins, it oh so festive! Pair with gougères (a savory choux pastry with cheese) or a fresh vegetable salad with a slice of quiche, and you have the makings for a cocktail party, Sunday brunch or holiday party! Another top favorite! Don’t forget to say hi to Greg and his dad…and be careful of their caveau! Found on Bicycle Tours in Burgundy, France.

Vittorio and his Vino Santo

Vittorio Innocenti Vino Santo 1995
Join me in Tuscany for a special visit with my friend Vittorio and discover another one of my favorites. The process to make this wine hasn’t changed in 2000 years. Made by drying grapes and then crushing for higher sugar content, this sweet dessert wine from Vittorio Innocenti is simply sublime. Sit on his terrace and enjoy a Vino Santo…you will never want to come home! Found on Bicycle Tours in Tuscany, Italy.

Villa Delfini Sacro Profano
Back to the amazing wines of Piedmont is this top blend – an extraordinarily complex mixture of Barbera (sacred to Piemontese) and Cabernet Sauvignon (there isn’t a lot of love lost between them and their French cousins!). Served with chestnuts roasted over an open fire on a cool October day…talk about DuVine! Visit the Villa, say hi to Graziella, you will become family. Found on Bicycle Tours in Piedmont.

Cascina Marcantonio Barbera 2000
I know…my love of wines from this region is obviously very apparent.  And I must confess… we actually drank the last bottle on our final tour in October. This is the wine made by Guido, our guide, from one of his first vintages as a winemaker.  Guido served it to us after dinner while we were all digesting, but it would have been a wonderful compliment to his mother’s plin (homemade ravioli), as well! Found on Bicycle Tours in Piedmont. Found on Bicycle Tours in Piedmont, Italy.

With Guido and Piedmont guide, David

Chateau Angelus, 2001 Bordeaux
What’s better than some nice stinky French cheese (a Roquefort, camembert or epoisse) and a bottle of this fine grand vin from Bordeaux? Well, if it has made my top10  of 2010…pretty much only 9 other competitors! Just call me Bond. Found on Bicycle Tours in Bordeaux, France.

Shoresh 2008, Tzora, Judean Hills, Israel
I really don’t think people realize what great wines Israel is producing! In my opinion, Israeli wines are completely underestimated! Take this Shoresh from the Tzora winery …aged in French oak barrels,  this concentrated and full bodied wine is a standout. Definitely worth a visit…you’ll feel like you are in Napa or Tuscany…and the tasting room is gorgeous! Found on Bicycle Tours in Israel.

Rafinelli Zinfandel, Sonoma County, California
If you are looking to get bold…here’s your Zinfandel. Vibrant and spicy…this special wine from the Dry Creek Valley is a must on my list…and you don’t even have to hop the pond to taste it! It’ll give you a new appreciation for the Californian Zinfandel. Found on Bicycle Tours in Sonoma, USA.

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December 10, 2010

Andy’s Top Ten Bicycle Rides of 2010

Filed under: Bike, Top 10 lists — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 2:35 pm

As our 2010 season approaches its conclusion and our 2011 adventure travel season is set to begin…I thought I’d take a few minutes to share some of my favorite rides of the past year (and perhaps, in the process, offer some DuVine inspiration to my fellow cycling enthusiasts?)

And, although I may be revealing some “DuVine secrets” by rating my top 10, nothing quite compares to actually riding these routes and experiencing them yourself. So while I may be divulging the “where” and some cursory information about the ride …I’d prefer to let you imagine and/or explore the “why” on your own!

My top 10 of 2010 (in no particular order…)

Views of the Matterhorn in Piedmont

Bicycle tour Piedmont, Italy: Acqui Terme to Relais & Chateaux San Maurizio…
What can I say? Just imagine cycling over the famous Langhe hills, an intimate landscape filled with vineyards, truffles, medieval towns like Montabone and Rocchetta Palafea, and stunning panoramas of an ancient landscape. As I rode along this route on a perfectly clear and sunny day this past August, the view was inarticulable…you could even see the Matterhorn in the Alps to the north!  The day just kept getting better and better…we stopped for lunch along the way with our local friends, Gianni and Mina for an intimate lunch featuring small hand-made ravioli called plin, and a really special treat – a raw-milk Roccaverano goat cheese – that Gianni gets from his friend, a small producer.  We continued on from this delicious lunch to our hotel for the evening, the converted monastery of San Maurizio, a luxurious Relais & Chateaux property. After a unique salt therapy treatment at the hotel’s Via del Sale Spa, we dined at the Michelin-starred Ristorante Da Guido, accompanied by an assortment of fine local wines.  Magical.

Along the coast in Puglia

Bicycle tour Puglia, Italy: The coastal roud to Leuca…
Ok…let me just preface by saying this is, hands down, one of the most stunning coastal roads in the world with breathtaking views of cliffs and bays. The ride meanders through the fishing village of Santa Cesarea Terme, famous for its Moorish architecture and thermal waters….and continues along the coast passing spectacular sea caves and the town of Castro, where Virgil claims the legendary Aeneas first made landfall in Italy. Our lunch (or rather…our heavenly picnic) was a stop along the way to Leuca,  in an amazingly scenic spot, suspended in the branches of an olive tree overlooking the sparkling cerulean sea. The beauty of this day is that you have the option to continue this epic day of cycling by riding back to Otranto – a 106 km roundtrip day of pure bliss.

Cycling the island of Hvar

Bicycle tour Hvar, Croatia: Around Hvar Island to Paklinski Otoci
Anything is possible on this incredible island! I joined one of our private groups this past June for another epic bicycle ride around the island of Hvar. And to be honest…it really does not get better than this! We cruised in our private yacht for an hour along the calm turquoise water, soaking up the sunshine, to reach the end of the island where our bikes  (which had travelled alongside us in a zodiac) were waiting at the dock ready for us to hop on and explore. A 80km ride ensued…a challenging yet beautiful 3 hour non-stop ride through lavender fields and up rolling hills. Did I mention that every vista is spectacular? Whether you are climbing, riding along the coast or wending your way through the villages…there is certainly no want for scenery!  Wow. It was absolutely picture perfect – not a cloud in the sky, warm sunshine, and a gentle breeze followed us as we rode the entire island. And, honestly, that’s the only thing that followed us. And when the ride was over, our yacht was waiting with 2 massage therapist…gelato and hot apple pie. Not a bad day on the ‘road’!

On the road to Sienna in Tuscany

Bicycle tour Tuscany, Italy: Through the Crete Senesi and the back roads into Siena
Have you ever been on a ride where you exclaim “this is the most beautiful view I have ever seen” and then your climb another hill, turn a corner and declare, “ok…no, actually this the most beautiful view I have ever seen”…and then you climb a little further, turn another corner and proclaim, “really…this is definitely the most beautiful view I’ve ever seen” ??  Well, that’s what this bicycle ride from Montalcino to Siena is like…especially the final 11k climb up these challenging hills into Siena. This route takes you along the bare ridges of the Crete Senesi through Asciano and Vescona to Arbia and then follows the timeless back roads up a series of challenging hills to enter Siena in truly evocative fashion. This is a definitely a ride worth taking!

Lac Leman in the Swiss Alps

Bicycle tour Switzerland: Lausanne – Montreux
This ride through the scenic Swiss vineyards, into historic Vevey, and finishing up in Montreux along Lac Leman is a must on the list. Picture this: with the majestic Alps as your backdrop, you ride from lush vineyards, coasting into enchanting villages dotted with charming chalets, to a crystal-clear lake…a little bit of everything rolled into one. Talk about mountains majesty! There is nothing quite like the feeling of being surrounding by these magnificent peaks… legendary in their own right…as you ride along the lake…definitely a WOW moment…a truly breathtaking experience!

Riding to Cap Formentor

Bicycle tour Mallorca, Spain: The ride to Cap Formentor
Prepare for some epic biking…and even more epic scenery on this Spanish ride! A warm up ride to Alaro begins your day as you pass through several quiet, rural villages before arriving in the cultural hotspot of Pollensa Port.  But this day of incredible vistas and challenging climbs is just beginning…as you ascend into the distance, dramatic and rocky cliffs drop off from both sides of the road and offer sweeping views of the sea. What’s even better is that your ride ends down on the Mediterranean Sea… where a well-deserved lunch awaits, as well as quality time to relax on the tranquil beach! Bike and beach…a winning combination!

Just one of the incredible views cycling the island of Korcula...

Bicycle tour Korcula, Croatia: Korcula Island
First and foremost, Korcula is an ancient Greek colony dating back to the 4th century BC and is also a seafood aficionado’s dream with its endless supply of octopus, local specialty-fish stew, and the freshest of ingredients picked directly from the sea! It is, of course, another top 10 ride as well!  I arrived via private boat to the town of Vela Luka on the west coast and headed out to cycle across the island to Korcula Town. Along the way, I encountered miles of vineyards – famous for their local white wines – and stopped into to taste regional specialties. After a delicious lunch at a local konobo, I arrived in Korcula Town, a fascinating fortified Venetian town that is just as irresistible to today’s visitor as it was to medieval travel writers like Marco Polo, who began his life’s journey here. All this makes for a gorgeous blend of ancient walled towns, the freshest seafood, and wonderful wines combined with fantastic cycling along the azure waters of the Adriatic!

The open road in Wadi Rum

Bicycle tour Jordan: Cycling the Wadi Rum
Ok…so what is Wadi Rum, you might ask?  Wadi Rum is a valley cut into the sandstone and granite rock in south-west Jordan. It has been inhabited by many human cultures since prehistoric times and is dotted with massive rock formations. It is virtually untouched by humanity and its destructive forces. It is here where I set on an almost ‘other-worldly” ride through the desert this past March. Beginning in the mud flats of Disi – a vast flat field with hard ground in the middle of the desert – I headed out on an a ride like I had never experienced before…it felt almost as if being on another planet surrounded by the  beautiful scenery of the colorful sandstone massive desert mountains. As we rode along, we encountered nothing but one of the occasional Bedouin goat herders on donkeys. What a unique experience! Top that day off with a ‘Zarb’ – the traditional Bedouin dish of meat and vegetables cooked underneath the desert sand. Oh, and did I mention that it is also a great location to watch a truly magical sunset?!

The French countryside in Haute Cotes du Beaune

Bicycle tour Burgundy, France: Haute Cotes du Beaune
Imagine cycling through the picturesque villages of the undisturbed French countryside. On this ride you should be prepared to be stunned by extraordinary views of the town’s 13th century castle ruins. As you meander past Charolais cows and the gorgeously restored 15th century château at La Rochepot you will find yourself cruising down a leisurely downhill ride into Saint Aubin – home to a grand Romanesque church. It is here you will stop for a true gourmand delight of a picnic at Chassagne-Montrachet and then continue cycling through Puligny Montrachet, Meursault, Volnay and Pommard before arriving back in Beaune to sip wine and chat with the locals. This is the ride to experience the French wine countryside in its purest and most scenic form!

Coastal Connemara

Bicycle tour Connemara, Ireland: Cliften and the Boglands
Bikes, bogs, Guinness beers and whiskey…that’s what this epic ride in Ireland features! I remember the feeling I experienced as we followed the bog road to the quaint town of Clifden – there is nothing like witnessing the uber green Irish landscape in person.  Add to that, the breathtaking views from atop the rolling hills looking down upon the Atlantic Ocean from High Sky Road…and need I forget, the ubiquitous sheep. We popped into a local pub for some fresh fish and chips with a pint of Guinness and topped the day off with an Irish whiskey tasting by the fire in the library of the Ashford Castle with Seamus.  What a unique and memorable time!

Tell us about your top ride by posting below.

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December 9, 2010

DuVine photo contest winner gets his Montague Bike!

Filed under: Bike, Photo Contest — Tags: , , — Bike tour guru @ 4:17 pm

Ted picking up his bike at DuVine's office

Our 2010 DuVine Adventures Adventure Travel Photo contest was a huge success this year,  and as it happened, our first place winner Ted Chan is local to Boston so he was able to take delivery in person of first prize, which was a Montague Bikes Navigator folding bike.

It took a few tries to get everyone synced up to make the delivery but this past Friday Ted dropped by after work and Dave Criswell from Montague rolled through the door and delivered the Navigator bike.  Being that this is not an ordinary bike, but a folding bike, Dave gave Ted and the rest of us a quick demonstration of how to fold up the bike and we are all now experts in this very quick task (I’d say about 10 seconds and its ready to store or throw in the back of your car for easy transport).

Tom, Ted, David and Bike

Here at the DuVine office we have a couple of Montague Bikes: a Paratrooper and Crosstown, both of which have gotten lots of miles put on them this past year.  The Navigator bike is really cool, with its jet black finish and black-spoked rims, we are sure Ted will be the envy of all downtown Boston commuters.

While at our office Ted was also able to catch up with Tom Coppock who was the guide on Ted’s bicycle trip to Italy last summer where he took his winning photos and we all got to hear about how much fun he and his new bride had on their honeymoon trip.  Ted also gave us a few insights into the contest that we can use for next year and he also said if you want to win you’ve got to share your photos - clearly Ted has a lot of friends who loved his photos!

Ted and Tom talking Tuscany

So get ready DuViners, the 2011 Adventure Travel Photo Contest will be here before you know it and maybe you will be the next winner!

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Video Blog – Preview – DuVine Adventure’s top 10 Lists for 2010

Filed under: Active Travel, Adventure Travel, Bike, Top 10 lists, Video Blog — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 12:11 pm

It’s time for the Top 10 Lists of 2010 and DuVine Adventures has a great set of lists for the year including: Top 10 Bike Rides, Top 10 Wines and Top 10 Hotels from across our bike tour and adventure travel activities in 2010.

Check out this preview from Founder Andy Levine and keep an eye out for all of the lists coming out in this blog as well as our DuVine Facebook page and DuVine Twitter posts.

Savor the best of 2010 and join us in 2011 as we create a new best of in adventure travel!

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December 1, 2010

Highlights from a Season of Guiding

Filed under: Bike, Bordeaux, France, Guide posts, Guides, Staff Posts, Wine Tasting, staff stories — Tags: , , , , , , — Bike tour guru @ 4:12 pm

Tommy Pace, one of our DuVine guides has put together his own list of FAQ’s, inspired by his year of hosting guests and fielding their questions while on bicycle tours in France:

Is this really a job or is it just an extended vacation?
It is a serious job with moments of pleasure. For every tour there are countless hours spent behind the scenes to create perfect vacations for the guests. There’s lots of driving, shopping and cleaning. Some days we do bike maintenance, other days we develop and create new routes. And research – guides do lots of research to learn about the regional food, wine and history. Each tour is different and there is always a diverse set of challenges to overcome before, during and after the trip. That being said, once the hard work is done, we enjoy fabulous rides with our guests. We taste rare wines and eat to our heart’s content; it is incredible.

The life of a guide: bike eat drink sleep

How did you end up here?
My first exposure to the French culture was when I was fourteen years old; I spent a month with a French family in Southern France. I didn’t speak any French but I was forced to learn. Years later I repeated the experience spending an entire year attending a French high school. Following those life-changing experiences, I earned a BA in French from Gettysburg College and a MA in French from The University of Colorado at Boulder. Wanting to share my passion for France, I taught for a number of years before transitioning to DuVine Adventures where I could combine my love for France with biking, gastronomy and wine.

What do you do when you’re not leading a tour?
Easy question – BIKE, EAT, DRINK, SLEEP.  My brief vacations between bicycle tours consisted of exploring the Dordogne region, visiting friends in Paris and going on a solo bike tour in the Alps (185 miles of riding with 23,000’ of climbing in four days!).

What is a good day like?
The mist lifts from vineyards as the sun slowly warms the surrounding countryside with a warm soft light. I sip my coffee, enjoy a flaky pastry and discuss the regional specialties with a table of DuVine guests. We set out through the fields and forests, past Châteaux and churches. Our ride is only interrupted by photo opportunities and a delicious picnic prepared by my co-guide. After a relaxing afternoon, we head over to a small winery where we explore the work of a local winemaker and learn about his passion. We sit down to eat in his home; the wine is delicately balanced and sensational. The food is rich, flavorful and exquisite. I sleep like a baby knowing that I have the best job in the world.

Do you ever have bad days?
Occasionally there are challenging days. They usually start without coffee…
Luckily for everyone involved, the good days are plentiful and the difficult days are practically nonexistent thanks to my co-guides and the exceptional, forward-thinking DuVine staff that have created fabulous itineraries.

DuVine arriving at Chambord

What is your favorite tour?
All of our tours are great but I really like the Bordeaux bicycle tour – the wine is incredible!

What is your favorite visit?
Bordeaux bicycle tour – Château Carbonneau
Loire bicycle tour – Domaine Flammand Delétang
Provence bicycle tour – Chocolatier Joël Durand

What is the best part of the job?
The people make the experience. On every tour we get to visit phenomenal locals who share their passions, and regional specialties, with the group. Each week I get to meet new DuVine guests who are enthusiastic and exciting. And my co-guides in France are incredible, funny and intelligent. I’m constantly learning from everybody with whom I interact.

Sum up the experience in one sentence.
The life of a DuVine guide can be extremely rewarding, nerve-wracking, exciting, educational and frustrating all at the same time.

Vertical Tasting at Guiraud

Would you do it again?
Looking back on a season of guiding, I can easily say that it was an amazing experience – an experience that I am excited to repeat.

What are your top-5 highlights from the season?
Riding all out to catch the ferry from Blaye to Lamarque on a private tour.
Barrel samples of the 2009 Château Rauzon-Segla
Meeting Thierry Manoncourt
Tasting 1996 Chateau Palmer
Working with the entire DuVine team in Burgundy.

I hope this helps give you a picture of the life of a DuVine guide. If you have any other questions, feel free to contact me. Enjoy the winter season and sign up now for your next DuVine bicycle tour in France.

Grand Saint Bernard

À l’année prochaine…

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