Just imagine a week in the sun, doing nothing but cycling on quiet roads, being guided through lush vineyards, potentially sampling a local wine or two, with views of the high peaks of the Pyrenean mountain range.
If this is your dream holiday then you need to keep reading.
Like most cyclists riding up Ventoux is a life ambition, some friends and I asked Toni and Dave to organise a bespoke trip, which also included some Southern Alps climbs. Toni and Dave sorted all the logistics for us, including transfers, hotels and the guided cycling, with Toni meeting us everyday mid-ride, with an amazing lunch spread generally on the side of the road. The highlight was obviously riding up Ventoux - as we planned to cycle all three routes in 24 hours, we set off from Sault at 5:00am. The group eventually split up, I found myself at the front and reached the top of Ventoux at around 7:00am, just as the sun was rising. There I was at the top of Ventoux, with Toni and a few photographers - for me, it was one of those very special moments in life, which happened totally by accident, one I will never forget. A great trip topped with that "moment in time". Since getting in to road cycling around 6 years ago, I have had the amazing privilege of visiting Toni and Dave maybe 15 times, on training weeks, sportive events, Tour de France weeks and bespoke weeks which we have asked Toni and Dave to completely organise for us. I can't recommend them highly enough - they are the perfect couple, a great cycling guide (Dave) and the most amazing cook (Toni) - proper food which fuels your rides. I can't recommend them and their banana cake highly enough."
Let us help to make your holiday dreams come true. We have dates available each year for just such trips. We offer a variety of cycling holidays or can create a custom itinerary to create your perfect holiday in (and out) of the saddle.
An example of a typical day of a Bespoked holiday:
- 8.00 am – A half-hour of yoga and cycling-specific stretching to get the day started.
- 8.30 am – Breakfast. Dietary requirements are discussed in advance of your arrival to ensure all your needs are catered for.
- 10 am – 12.30 pm – Morning ride
- 12.30 – 1.30 pm – Lunch. Usually in a local café/restaurant or for long rides out then a picnic lunch can be provided on the route.
- 1.30 – 4.30 pm – Afternoon ride
- On return to Chalabre, afternoon tea will be provided. Tea, coffee, and even a cold beer will be waiting for you along with homemade cakes and snacks.
- 7 pm – Dinner is served, starting with a typical French aperitif and followed by a 3-course dinner. With local wines and soft drinks included in the overall price of the trip.
Relax and unwind
Chalabre has 3 bars and a micro-brewery, so there will still be plenty of time before or after dinner to experience some typical Chalabrian culture.
We have lounge areas where you can relax and read. If you don’t bring along your own reading material then borrow one from our extensive library (cycling or non-cycling). We have TV areas where you can choose from watching one of many DVDs we have on offer or catch up on any live races that may be on. English speaking commentary is available.
Contact us for more information.
