Want to bike in the mountains but don't want to climb hills? Then this tour is for you! Our Virginia Multi-Sport Tour is designed to allow both novice and advanced cyclists enjoy the scenic beauty of the southwest corner of Virginia. Bike and hike Virginia’s scenic trails and retire at night to the elegance of charming southern inns.
The cycling terrain on this tour is flat, railroad grade trails, with a few minor uphill grades. Route distances vary from 15 miles to 50 miles. Flexible mileage is possible thanks to the support van. All biking takes place on unpaved, packed crushed gravel trails. We recommend hybrid-style or mountain bike style tires with minimum tire widths of 35 cm. Our hiking routes are moderate, with distances of 3-7 miles planned.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: We meet in historic Abingdon, Virginia at the elegant Summerfield Inn. Abingdon was the first incorporated English speaking settlement in the Mississippi basin and became a major distribution point for mail and supplies on "The Great Road" west. Optional activities include a guided bike ride on area back roads, self-guided ride on the Creeper Trail, and a guided walking tour of the historic downtown district. After hors d’eourves and happy hour, we will dine as a group on the gourmet offerings of a local favorite restaurant. Included in your tour price is a performance after dinner at the historic Barter Theatre, the State Theatre of Virginia, just a few steps away. (D)
Day 2: During our short morning shuttle, we will go over rail trail biking safety and etiquette as we make our way toward the New River Trail, a 57 mile former railroad bed. We will pass through attractive woodlands, pasture lands, and towering river bluffs as we bike beside the gentle currents of one of the oldest rivers in North America. A catered picnic lunch awaits midday, after which we continue across numerous wooden trestles and through some short tunnels. A brief shuttle ends the day as we settle in at River House, our home for the next two nights. Relax on the porch or swim in the river prior to dining at the renowned restaurant at River House. (B) (L) (D)
Day 3: We take a break from the bike today and explore the scenic beauty of southwest Virginia on foot. We hike today in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, enjoying the rugged alpine scenery and panoramic views of the valleys below. Numerous mountain "balds" offer 360 degree views of the majestic southern Appalachian peaks. We picnic today near a rebuilt homestead site, complete with log cabins, a spring-house and cane mill offering a glimpse into life during pioneer days. After a short afternoon hike, we make our way back to River House, where the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy tubing in the river, croquet on the lawn, rocking on the porch or exploring the extensive 180 acre grounds of River House. (B) (L) (D)
Day 4: Our final day together finds us biking along the famous Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34 mile trail marking the quintessential mountain railroad route. The Creeper courses downhill across numerous trestles and bridges through the mountains to Damascus, passing deep woods, small farms and clear, fast streams. The open views of farmlands and mountain meadows await as we make our way to the Creeper Trail terminus in Abingdon, Va. A final lunch and hot showers await prior to saying farewell. (B) (L)
Accommodation:
Night 1: Summerfield Inn, Abingdon, VA. is a spacious 1920's era Colonial Revival home offering guests the ambiance of a private home setting with luxurious comfort and hospitality. It is centrally located in the Historic District of Abingdon and within walking distance of the Barter Theatre. A full gourmet breakfast is served each morning.
Nights 2-3: River House, Grassy Creek, NC. On the site of an old farm overlooking the New River, guest rooms have been created out of the old farm buildings. Each room is beautifully appointed on the inside, while maintaining the rustic architecture on the outside. Gayle Winston’s years of innkeeping experience are complemented by the wonderful restaurant she runs onsite. You'll soon understand why people regularly drive long distances for a sampling of River House cuisine.
2008 Tour Dates:
June 3-6
July 1-4
July 22-25
Sept. 16-19
Check our website for updated availability: www.carolinatailwinds.com
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Discounts available for early and group reservations. Single supplement applies when a single room is requested or a roommate is not found. Single occupancy room supplement - $235. Bike rental - $80.
Also see tour packages in:
USA
Virginia
North Carolina
Bicycle Touring
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