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Cities of Castile (8 Days)
offered by supplier M08426 (view this supplier profile)
Key Information:
Tour Duration: 8
day(s)
Group Size: 1
- 20
people
Destination(s):
Spain
Specialty Categories:
Bicycle Touring
Season: April - October
Airfare Included: No
Tour Customizable: Yes
Minimum Per Person Price: 1330 US Dollar (USD)
Maximum Per Person Price: 1330 US Dollar (USD)
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A chance to explore Central Spain. The cities are steeped in history and have kept their historical centres intact over the centuries. Sights range from the magnificent Roman aqueduct in Segovia to the impressive city walls of the fortified city of Ávila to the end of the trip at El Escorial, the famous monastery of Felipe II.
Rivalling the spectacle of these cities are the landscapes, ranging from the endless horizons of the plains of Castile to the dramatic beauty of the Sierra de Gredos mountains. Great variety for a week’s cycling. You can also extend your trip with a stay in Madrid, Spain’s vibrant and exciting capital.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Segovia. Today we pick up from arrival point in Madrid and transfer to Segovia where we will spend our next two nights. Includes: (B);
Day 2: Round ride from Segovia. Today we have two optional round rides from Segovia. Our shorter ride takes us to the Palacio de La Granja de San Ildefonso, the magnificent 18th century palace built by Felipe V as a summer residence. Our longer ride will take us to visit the picturesque village of Turégano with its fine fortified church / castle. Total distance: 40 km – 25 miles ,68 km – 42 miles. Includes: (B);
Day 3: Segovia - Arévalo. This ride takes us west across the Castilian plains towards the town of Arévalo. The Sierra de Guadarrama (the range mountains to the north of Madrid) is left behind us. The route combines small sleepy villages, immense horizons, pine forests and the fine castle of Coca. We finally arrive in the medieval town of Arévalo, famous for its mudéjar architecture, its castle, the medieval Plaza de la Villa, and last but not least, cochinillo, the tender suckling pig so popular in this part of Spain. Total distance: 59 km –37 miles (short), 82 km - 50 miles (long). Includes: (B);
Day 4: Arévalo - Ávila. From Arévalo, we begin to head south again towards the mountains of the Sistema Central. We reach the historical town of Madrigal de las Altas Torres, birthplace of Isabel La Católica. Our route takes us through untouched Castilian villages across the fertile plains until we finally reach the city of Ávila, the highest provincial capital of Spain, surrounded by its magnificently preserved walls. Here we can enjoy an evening stroll around the historical centre and enjoy its marvellous tapas. Total distance: 55 km – 35 miles (short), 103 km -64 miles (long).
Day 5: Ávila – Sierra de Gredos
Today we cross the Sierra de Gredos, the mountain range separating the two Castiles. Beautiful dramatic scenery, where vultures soar over the rocky landscape. Olive trees and cherry blossom decorate the valleys. Our support vehicle is on hand should anyone need a “push”. On arrival at the village of Hoyos del Espino, a transfer is available to the heart of the Reserva Nacional de Gredos to see the impressive higher peaks crowned by the Almanzor.
Total Distance - Short 60 km – 38 miles / Long 82 km – 51 miles
Day 6: Sierra de Gredos – Cebreros
From Hoyos del Espino we descend the valley formed by the River Alberche - an easy ride as we descend 650 metres / 2100 feet through the very heart of the mountain range. Wild and beautiful scenery combines with the spectacular flora and fauna of the region. Finally we reach the wine-producing village of Cebreros.
Total Distance - Short 45 km – 28 miles / Long 84 km – 53 miles
Day 8: Cebreros – El Escorial
A short ride from Cebreros takes us through pine forests and fine scenery towards the magnificent monastery and summer palace of San Lorenzo del Escorial, built by Felipe II in the XVI century, burial place of Spanish monarchs and home to a magificent art collection. Extend your route by 26 km if you wish with a visit to the Valle de los Caídos.
Total distance - 40 km – 25 miles
DAy 8: Transfer El Escorial – departure point
Transfer to departure point. End of trip.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Single supplement - $190
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Spain
Bicycle Touring
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