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8 day Independent OR Escorted tour
A WINE AND FOOD LOVERS' PARADISE
Occupying a large area that borders on France and Switzerland, Piedmont is the ancient dominion of the Savoys, the ill-fated royal family who ruled Italy from the Unification in 1870 until abdication in 1946.
Piedmont is also a region where food comes first, with a host of specialities in an area which boasts centuries’ old culinary traditions and outstanding, top quality local produce appreciated throughout the world. Fantastic wines, first-class truffles, sweet chocolate and an artful kitchen attract gourmets from all over the world to visit this region.
An awesome landscape assures variety for our cycle tours. Stroll through the numerous medieval alleys in the small villages. To discover Piedmont by bike is really an awesome experience!
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DAY TO DAY ITINERARY
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Day 1: Individual arrival in Alessandria
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The city of Alessandria is divided in two by the river Tanaro. Worth a visit is Piazza della Libertà and Piazza Duomo with its wonderful neoclassical cathedral.
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Day 2: Alessandria - Acqui Terme (52 km)
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You cycle for a few kilometers along the Strada Franca, an ancient road dating back to 1454. You will pass across smooth hills, woods and small isolated villages where you will be able to taste typical products and excellent local wines (Barbera and Dolcetto d’Aqui among others). Aqui Terme: famous for its spring waters, like the “Bollente” situated in the historical centre.
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Day 3: Acqui Terme - Alba (54 km)
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You come across the famous hills of the Langhe, the countryside and the vineyards as well as the splendid small villages of Montabone, Rocchetta Palafea and Canelli. The stage ends in Alba, home of the most precious of the truffles, the Tartufo Bianco, and of the famous “Dolcetto d’Alba”.
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| Day 4: Alba - Asti (41 km) |
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A route through vineyards and along panoramic paths, which will eventually take you to Asti in the heart of Monferrato. Do visit the historical centre with its famous towers, the romanic monuments and the splendid gothic cathedral.
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Day 5: Asti - (Torino) - Asti (34 km)
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Today you have a choice between cycling across the Asti hills and their natural parks and a trip to Torino. You can reach Torino, the first capital of Italy, carrying the bike on the train. It is a city with splendid monuments, tree-lined roads and ancient cafés, which offer a choice of chocholate-based specialties.
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Day 6: Asti - Casale Monferrato (53 km)
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Take advantage of the hospitality of the wine cellars and restaurants along the way, which offer an excellent eno-gastronomical choice. In Monferrato you will eventually meet the river Po, the longest river in Italy.
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Day 7: Casale Monferrato - Alessandria (47 km)
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Further cycling across green hills and cultivated lands. Passing through the small villages on the right side of the Po river you will return to Alessandria where the tour ends.
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Day 8: Journey home or extension of stay
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After breakfast your cycling tour comes to an end and you may begin your journey home. We would also be more than happy to extend your stay in Europe.
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PRICE & DETAILS
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Price & Schedule
INDEPENDENT TOUR
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DEPARTURE DATES:
Every Saturday from April 9th to October 15th, 2011.
Special departure dates can be organised for at least 6 persons!
| Price per person, double occ. |
CAD |
$1050 |
| Single room surcharge |
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$275 |
| High season surcharge (September & October) |
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$45 |
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| Included: |
- accommodation in superior class hotels rated 3 & 4 star, all rooms with private facilities
- buffet breakfasts
- luggage transport
- tour information at your first hotel by our representative
- hybrid bicycle with 21 gears and pannier
- maps & road guide book
- 7 day service helpline
Note: Train transfers – including optional trip to Torino – are not included in the tour price.
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Price & Schedule
ESCORTED TOUR
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DEPARTURE DATES:
May 1st, June 4th, July 9th, August 6th, September 3rd
Note: the day to day route is slightly different to our independent tour.
| Price per person, double occ. |
CAD |
$1375 |
| Single room surcharge |
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$250 |
| Optional Electro Bike |
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$140 |
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| Included: |
- accommodation in superior class hotels rated 3 & 4 star, all rooms with private facilities
- buffet breakfasts and 3 course dinners
- luggage transport
- maps & road guide book
- hybrid bicycle with 21 gears and pannier
- company of a skilled trained travel guide who knows about the country
- support bus present during the whole tour
- wine tasting and tasting of local gastronomic specialties
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| Rate: |
MODERATE: The daily stages are not very long, from a minimum of 40 to a maximum of 55 km, with a medium level of difficulty in undulating terrain.
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| Airport / Transfers |
The nearest airport is Turin. Regular train service is available to Alessandria where your tour starts.
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Tours 
