Luxury Adventure Vacation BC

6 Days Mallorca on two wheels!

Few island destinations can match the glorious climate and world-class biking routes of Mallorca. The largest in Spain’s Balearic archipelago, this idyllic Mediterranean isle has long been a magnet for European cyclists and professional teams seeking a sunny locale for early- and late-season training. And its geographic diversity seems created with cycling in mind. From long, flat coastal roads, to gentle inland rollers, to quad-busting switchback climbs up the region’s highest mountain range, the island offers outstanding terrain for all persuasions. What’s more, each epic day in the saddle brings the promise of extraordinary cuisine, superb local Manto Negro wines and splendid accommodations.

• Spin through the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana, amid pine forests, emerald-green valleys and rugged cliffs. Then tackle the ultra-curvy ascent from Orient to Bunyola, two ancient and idyllic towns well worth exploring.
• Join the glitterati in Valldemossa once a Moorish hamlet, the town has more recently seen its share of celebrities, including Bob Geldof, Andrew Lloyd Webber, George Clooney, Michael Douglas and Susan Sarandon.
• Follow sinuous mountain terrain past Charterhouse, the monastery in which Frédéric Chopin stayed with George Sand over the winter of 1838-39.
• Wind along the rocky northern coast with the towering Tramuntana as your backdrop. Passing through the cobbled streets of Fornalutx, look in the eaves of the houses for traditional painted Arabic tiles.
• Climb the average 5.9 percent gradient over nine miles to the Puig Major Tunnel, and brave the road to Sa Calobra (The Snake), a roller-coaster of hairpin turns plunging 3,000 feet to a sea cove with secluded beaches.
• Embark on the stunning route to Cap de Formentor at the island’s northernmost point—a ride that may stand as one of your lifetime favorites. Pedal the cape’s ridgeline as dramatic sea views unfold all around you and white cliffs tower thousands of feet above the azure water.

Departures in spring and fall 2012.

Price starting from US$ 3998

Biking Vermont and Quebec, Canada

Perfection cannot be rushed. Just ask anyone in Vermont or Québec. They know their sublime Northern Appalachian landscape didn’t turn up overnight. It took eons. Continents collided. Glaciers scraped. Weather scoured. Each step doing its part to create a masterpiece of rolling hills, lush serene valleys and pristine lakes. And these locals know their cheddar and Ermite Blue wouldn’t be so perfectly delectable without the right attention and aging. Logical really, that the best things in life take time. Like biking through this untouched part of North America. Savoring fresh air. Hand-pressed apple cider. Winding roads. Handicrafts. The perfect vacation.

Tour highlights:

• Two countries and cultures; one trip of idyllic mountains, valleys and lakes
• Bike quiet rolling roads past classic New England farms, maple syrup stands and covered bridges
• Québec’s enchanting Eastern Townships, where artisans abound and French is spoken
• Taste maple syrup, fresh cheeses, foie gras, apple cider and other local delights
• Québec City, with impressive architecture and French heritage – why not extend your trip to see it?

6 days
June to September 2012
Price: from $2998 US

Vietnam & Cambodia 5-Star Walking

It’s unlike anywhere else. Raw and simple one minute, bustling and friendly the next. In one breath dramatic and tranquil. A sail among the limestone peaks in Halong Bay. Footpaths that snake through secluded rice paddies. A quiet nod from villagers leading buffalos to water. Touching the ethereal ruins of Angkor with your own hands. It’s a journey full of color and intrigue. Every meal is a metaphor for the region’s complex culture. Every hotel offers soothing comforts. Temples that defy centuries. Smiles that bridge oceans. And local guides that open doors long closed.