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SLOVENIA<br />

NEW FOR 2012<br />

BENTS<br />

CHALLENGE<br />

SEE PAGE 9<br />

cycling & walking holidays<br />

ex<strong>per</strong>ience guide 2012<br />

Germany - Austria - Slovenia - Switzerl<strong>and</strong> - Czech Republic


Welcome to<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> Cycling<br />

& <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong><br />

2012<br />

“Before I came on this<br />

cycling holiday, I didn’t<br />

know what to expect<br />

but it’s been absolutely<br />

fantastic – if you want<br />

a holiday combining<br />

fresh air, sightseeing <strong>and</strong><br />

exercise, this is <strong>per</strong>fect.”<br />

Tris Payne,<br />

Wish you were here...?<br />

As cycling <strong>and</strong> walking holiday<br />

ex<strong>per</strong>ts, <strong>Bents</strong> lead the way…<br />

We’re proud to be celebrating more than<br />

25 years organising high quality cycling <strong>and</strong><br />

walking holidays. Here at <strong>Bents</strong>, we take care<br />

of everything for you – <strong>from</strong> flights <strong>and</strong> hotels,<br />

to the choice of route. Best of all, we ensure<br />

that you have the freedom to explore each<br />

destination at your own pace.<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> is a member<br />

of AITO, the Association of Independent<br />

Tour O<strong>per</strong>ators. All AITO members are<br />

fully bonded, so you can book your holiday<br />

with confidence <strong>and</strong> peace of mind. We also<br />

guarantee that the price of your holiday, as<br />

shown on our booking confirmation, is the<br />

price you’ll pay – there’ll be no surcharges or<br />

nasty surprises.<br />

Each of our chosen destinations has been<br />

carefully selected to offer a wide range of<br />

activities, <strong>from</strong> mountain walking <strong>and</strong> water<br />

sports to visiting historical monuments <strong>and</strong><br />

castles. Most importantly, excellent cycling<br />

Aito Quality Charter<br />

AITO is the Association for<br />

independent <strong>and</strong> specialist<br />

holiday companies. Our<br />

member companies, usually<br />

owner-managed, strive to create overseas<br />

holidays with high levels of professionalism<br />

<strong>and</strong> a shared concern for quality <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>per</strong>sonal service. The Association encourages<br />

the highest st<strong>and</strong>ards in all aspects of tour<br />

o<strong>per</strong>ating.<br />

Exclusive Membership<br />

AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance<br />

<strong>and</strong> quality which must be satisfied before new<br />

companies are admitted to membership. All<br />

members are required to adhere to a Code<br />

of Business Practice which encourages high<br />

o<strong>per</strong>ational st<strong>and</strong>ards <strong>and</strong> conduct.<br />

Financial Security<br />

An AITO member is required to protect<br />

money paid by customers to the member for<br />

any holiday sold under the AITO logo. This<br />

protection applies to customers who are in<br />

the UK at the time of booking or to overseas<br />

customers who have booked directly with the<br />

<strong>and</strong> walking excursions are available in each<br />

area, all carefully researched by us to suit<br />

everybody.<br />

This year we have an exciting new addition<br />

to our programme, a cycling tour through<br />

magical Slovenia (p26). It is a br<strong>and</strong> new<br />

destination for us, <strong>and</strong> we are looking forward<br />

to showing you the unspoilt l<strong>and</strong>scapes of this<br />

beautiful country.<br />

We also have two fantastic tours returning<br />

this summer: the delightful <strong>and</strong> challenging<br />

Heart of the Black Forest (p18) <strong>and</strong>, the<br />

picturesque Enns Valley <strong>and</strong> the Austrian<br />

Lakes (p24).<br />

All except one of our tours are available in<br />

two formats. The first is the ‘Original <strong>Bents</strong><br />

Formula’ of two night stays at each hotel,<br />

moving on alternate days. This format is<br />

available on all dates. You can also choose our<br />

‘One Night Stops’ itinerary, which includes<br />

two nights in your first hotel, followed by <strong>just</strong><br />

a single night in each subsequent hotel. This<br />

formula is offered on selected dates. Our<br />

member. Members have to comply with<br />

UK Government Regulations in this respect.<br />

Members submit details of their bonding or<br />

guarantee arrangements to the Association on<br />

a regular basis.<br />

Accurate Brochures <strong>and</strong> Web Sites<br />

All members do their utmost to ensure that all<br />

their brochures <strong>and</strong> other publications, print<br />

or electronic, clearly <strong>and</strong> accurately describe<br />

the holidays <strong>and</strong> services offered.<br />

Professional Service <strong>and</strong> Continual<br />

Improvements<br />

All members are committed to high st<strong>and</strong>ards<br />

of service <strong>and</strong> believe in regular <strong>and</strong><br />

thorough training of employees. Members<br />

continually seek to review <strong>and</strong> improve their<br />

holidays. They listen to their customers <strong>and</strong><br />

always welcome suggestions for improving<br />

st<strong>and</strong>ards.<br />

Monitoring St<strong>and</strong>ards<br />

AITO endeavours to monitor quality st<strong>and</strong>ards<br />

regularly. All customers should receive a postholiday<br />

questionnaire the results of which are<br />

scrutinised by the Association.<br />

Moselle Tour (p20) has a specially chosen<br />

itinerary which is tailored to the l<strong>and</strong>scape.<br />

In response to many requests, we have<br />

added electric bicycles to our fleet. These<br />

are available at a small supplement <strong>and</strong>,<br />

should you choose one, will help you ride<br />

up hills with ease <strong>and</strong> keep going longer <strong>and</strong><br />

further with minimal effort.<br />

All of our holiday prices include flights<br />

<strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers. We<br />

offer scheduled flights <strong>from</strong> an array of<br />

regional UK airports to all of our destinations.<br />

We are also happy to arrange your flights<br />

using low cost carriers <strong>from</strong> any airport in the<br />

UK. Simply give us a call <strong>and</strong> we will research<br />

the best options for you.<br />

Ready to go? We look forward to hearing<br />

<strong>from</strong> you soon.<br />

Stephen Bent<br />

Striving for the highest st<strong>and</strong>ards in customer satisfaction<br />

We at <strong>Bents</strong> take great pride that all tours featured in this brochure are our own creation <strong>and</strong> are run <strong>and</strong> supported<br />

by <strong>Bents</strong> carefully trained staff. Being in control of all aspects of our holidays helps us maintain the highest st<strong>and</strong>ards of<br />

customer service, which you deserve.<br />

Responsible Tourism<br />

All members acknowledge the importance<br />

of AITO’s Responsible Tourism guidelines,<br />

which recognise the social, economic<br />

<strong>and</strong> environmental responsibilities of tour<br />

o<strong>per</strong>ating. Those demonstrating their<br />

achievements beyond the pure acceptance of<br />

this principle are recognised by the award of<br />

2 to 5 star status.<br />

Customer Relations<br />

All members endeavour to deal swiftly <strong>and</strong><br />

fairly with any issues their customers may<br />

raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute<br />

between an AITO member <strong>and</strong> a customer<br />

cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost<br />

Independent Dispute Settlement Service may<br />

be called upon by either side to bring the<br />

matter to a speedy <strong>and</strong> acceptable conclusion.<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> is a member<br />

of the Association of Independent Tour<br />

O<strong>per</strong>ators. To contact the Association, visit<br />

www.aito.com or call 020 8744 9280.<br />

02 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Discover Bavaria <strong>and</strong> Austria<br />

Snow-capped peaks, rolling green meadows, crystal clear lakes <strong>and</strong><br />

babbling brooks, picture postcard villages <strong>and</strong> historic old towns…<br />

Bavaria <strong>and</strong> Austria share many distinctive assets. Bavarians <strong>and</strong> Austrians<br />

are friendly <strong>and</strong> warm-hearted – proudly independent, many speak an<br />

incomprehensible dialect <strong>and</strong> frequently sport their traditional costume.<br />

Bavaria also includes the stunning region of The Allgäu, a hidden gem<br />

bordering Austria.<br />

Typically, the summer weather is several degrees warmer than in<br />

the UK (<strong>per</strong>fect for cycling in shorts <strong>and</strong> a T-shirt, <strong>and</strong> warm enough<br />

to enjoy a refreshing dip in the many inviting lakes). Long <strong>per</strong>iods of<br />

sunshine, only punctuated by occasional evening thunderstorms, are the<br />

usual conditions – an ideal combination to enjoy the stunning scenery.<br />

Discover the Black Forest<br />

Deep in south-western Germany, where the mighty Rhine traces the<br />

Swiss-French border, lies the legendary Black Forest. But its name is<br />

misleading – the overwhelming impression for visitors is one of lightness<br />

<strong>and</strong> enchanting beauty. This remarkable range of rounded mountains<br />

is topped with 400 square miles of dense pine forest, but also features<br />

expansive tracts of undulating hills sprinkled with traditional villages. The<br />

beautiful valleys that criss-cross these upl<strong>and</strong>s are mainly lush pastures<br />

grazed by cattle.<br />

The climate follows a similar pattern to Bavaria: warm, stable <strong>per</strong>iods<br />

of sunshine interrupted by occasional evening thunderstorms.<br />

Tem<strong>per</strong>atures are generally a few degrees higher than in the UK <strong>and</strong>,<br />

by mid-summer, the lakes are a pleasant tem<strong>per</strong>ature for bathing.<br />

A paradise for cyclists <strong>and</strong> walkers alike, the vast network of tracks <strong>and</strong><br />

lanes weave through the pretty villages <strong>and</strong> farming hamlets where<br />

a warm welcome is guaranteed. In fact, hospitality is a Black Forest<br />

tradition <strong>and</strong>, like the Bavarians, locals are often spotted proudly wearing<br />

their folk costumes. Two diverse products are synonymous with the<br />

region: cuckoo clocks <strong>and</strong>, of course, the famous chocolate <strong>and</strong> cherry<br />

gateaux (most visitors are seduced by the latter – so your waistline will<br />

thank you for choosing a cycling holiday!).<br />

Discover the Moselle Valley<br />

Gliding 300 miles on a leisurely journey <strong>from</strong> France via Luxembourg<br />

to Germany, the Moselle River snakes through stunning scenery <strong>and</strong><br />

historic towns. But the 150 mile stretch towards Koblenz in Germany<br />

is unquestionably the most romantic <strong>and</strong> celebrated region: rolling hills,<br />

dense stretches of forest <strong>and</strong> gr<strong>and</strong> medieval castles preserve a peaceful,<br />

romantic atmosphere seemingly <strong>from</strong> a bygone age.<br />

Of course, the Moselle Valley is one of Germany’s finest wine producing<br />

regions – famous for white varieties, especially crisp, fruity Rieslings.<br />

Many of its vineyards are situated on steep inclines for maximum sun<br />

exposure which means harvesting grapes by h<strong>and</strong>. In fact, the friendly<br />

locals sometimes joke that they were born with one leg shorter than the<br />

other to work the vines. The climate here is generally warm <strong>and</strong> sunny<br />

throughout the summer.<br />

Discover Slovenia<br />

With towering snow-topped mountains, me<strong>and</strong>ering rivers, shady pine<br />

forests, flower-filled meadows <strong>and</strong> emerald lakes, unspoilt Slovenia is<br />

<strong>per</strong>fect for outdoor adventures. The idyllic Alpine l<strong>and</strong>scapes are a joy<br />

to explore by bike – postcard-<strong>per</strong>fect views are dotted with lovely hillside<br />

villages where you can visit centuries-old churches <strong>and</strong> castles, <strong>and</strong> stop<br />

for lunch with welcoming locals.<br />

In the heart of the country, you’ll find the delightful capital city, Ljubljana.<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Baroque <strong>and</strong> Medieval buildings line the narrow lanes <strong>and</strong><br />

charming squares of the elegant Old Town. The imposing Ljubljana<br />

Castle looks proudly over the rooftops, <strong>and</strong> the Ljubljanica River winds<br />

its way through the city, its banks lined with weeping willows <strong>and</strong><br />

charming alfresco cafés – the <strong>per</strong>fect place to enjoy a glass or two of<br />

su<strong>per</strong>b Slovenian wine.<br />

Slovenian summers are <strong>per</strong>fect for cycling, with warm, dry days <strong>and</strong> only<br />

the occasional evening thunderstorm.<br />

Discover Switzerl<strong>and</strong><br />

At the cultural <strong>and</strong> geographical heart of Europe, Switzerl<strong>and</strong>’s<br />

magnificent mountain scenery is world famous. In the northeast is<br />

Appenzellerl<strong>and</strong>, a beautiful soft l<strong>and</strong>scape of Alpine meadows beneath<br />

towering jagged peaks. Fairytale villages of colourful wooden houses<br />

populate the valleys, where farming is the economic mainstay. The<br />

pride of the region is the wonderful Appenzeller cheese: straw-coloured<br />

with tiny holes <strong>and</strong> a golden rind, it has a distinctive smell <strong>and</strong> nutty or<br />

fruity flavour.<br />

To the north, the countryside gently undulates towards the shores of<br />

Lake Constance. Charming fishing villages <strong>and</strong> chic resorts are dotted<br />

along the coast, linked by traffic-free cycle routes.<br />

In the south-western corner of the country, stunning lakeside scenery<br />

also dominates the l<strong>and</strong>scape. The majestic snow-crested peaks of<br />

the Alps <strong>and</strong> Swiss Jura Mountains are reflected in the tranquil waters<br />

of Lake Neuchâtel, Lake Murten <strong>and</strong> Lake Genèva. Medieval villages<br />

clinging to the vertiginous hillside gradually lead down towards the<br />

elegant resorts nestled along the fashionable Swiss Riviera.<br />

With stable <strong>per</strong>iods of warm sunshine occasionally interrupted by<br />

evening thunderstorms, tem<strong>per</strong>atures during the summer are generally<br />

slightly higher here than in the UK. Bathing in the lakes is an especially<br />

pleasant ex<strong>per</strong>ience. Swiss traditions are enthusiastically upheld <strong>and</strong><br />

locals can often be spotted proudly wearing their folk costumes.<br />

Discover the Czech Republic & Southern Bohemia<br />

These l<strong>and</strong>s have been at the centre of things for over a thous<strong>and</strong><br />

years. During its turbulent history, the Czech Republic has acted<br />

as the crossroads of Europe. After 300 years under the Austrian<br />

Empire, independence <strong>from</strong> the Hapsburgs was achieved after World<br />

War I. Then almost 42 years of Communist rule ended with the ‘Velvet<br />

Revolution’ of 1989. And, while the last 20 years have seen huge<br />

changes, the Czech Republic remains a place of myth <strong>and</strong> mystery.<br />

South Bohemia, more than any other part of the Czech Republic,<br />

conforms to the image of Bohemia as a rural backwater. Indeed,<br />

industrialisation <strong>and</strong> destruction <strong>from</strong> wars appear to have passed it by<br />

completely. The region is the second largest in the country with the<br />

lowest population density.<br />

Not only is it blessed with remarkable scenery, South Bohemia is rich<br />

in unique historical sights. The regional hub of Ceské Budéjovice, for<br />

instance, is the famous home of Czech Budweiser Beer <strong>and</strong> a Gothic-<br />

Renaissance tower.<br />

The rest of the idyllic countryside is dotted with beautiful medieval<br />

walled towns, known as Rose Towns. The most renowned is exquisite<br />

Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts one<br />

of Europe’s largest castles. The climate here is usually mild <strong>and</strong> warm<br />

during the summer.<br />

Contents Page<br />

About our Holidays 2-3<br />

Accommodation <strong>and</strong> Cuisine 4-5<br />

Happy Holidaymakers 6-7<br />

Cycling <strong>Tours</strong><br />

Cycling with <strong>Bents</strong> 8-9<br />

GERMANY<br />

Garmisch <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Romantic Castles 10-11<br />

Ludwig’s Versailles <strong>and</strong><br />

Mozart’s Salzburg 12-13<br />

Bavarian Lakes <strong>and</strong><br />

Austria’s Tyrol 14-15<br />

Bavaria’s Allgäuer Alps 16-17<br />

The Heart of the Black Forest 18-19<br />

Magical Moselle Wine Route 20-21<br />

AUSTRIA<br />

Austrian Wine <strong>and</strong> the best<br />

of the Danube 22-23<br />

The Enns Valley <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Austrian Lakes 24-25<br />

SLOVENIA NEW!<br />

Essence of Slovenia 26-27<br />

SWITZERLAND<br />

Gruyères <strong>and</strong> Lake Genèva 28-29<br />

Appenzellerl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

Lake Constance 30-31<br />

THE CZECH<br />

REPUBLIC<br />

Beautiful Bohemia 32-33<br />

<strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong><br />

<strong>Walking</strong> with <strong>Bents</strong> 34-35<br />

GERMANY<br />

An Amble through the Allgäu 36-37<br />

Chiemgau - jewel of the<br />

Bavarian Alps 38-39<br />

<strong>Walking</strong> the Wettersteins 40-41<br />

Travel Information<br />

Booking Conditions <strong>and</strong><br />

Travel Details 42<br />

How to Book <strong>and</strong><br />

Booking Form 43<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 03


“Fulfils all the criteria<br />

of a <strong>per</strong>fect holiday for<br />

us; confidence in the<br />

organisation, exercise,<br />

fresh air, good hotels<br />

<strong>and</strong>, beautiful scenery<br />

to be enjoyed with<br />

like-minded people.<br />

The Austrian Wine <strong>and</strong><br />

best of the Danube tour<br />

had idyllic traffic-free<br />

cycle paths lined with<br />

colourful wild flowers<br />

<strong>and</strong> butterflies. Beautiful<br />

abbeys <strong>and</strong> monasteries<br />

to visit <strong>and</strong>, Austrian<br />

cakes, wine <strong>and</strong> apricot<br />

Schnapps to look<br />

forward to at the end of<br />

the ride.”<br />

S. Wilson, Essex.<br />

Charming Accommodation<br />

One of the highlights of your holiday will be the marvellous hotels <strong>and</strong> guesthouses in<br />

which you stay. Mostly small <strong>and</strong> family-run, they are h<strong>and</strong>picked for their comfort <strong>and</strong><br />

individual character, not to mention the warmth of their welcome. All rooms have private<br />

bathrooms.<br />

Freedom to Roam<br />

Two to three weeks before your holiday,<br />

we’ll send your travel documents,<br />

together with a comprehensive<br />

information pack of daily maps<br />

highlighted with our suggested routes,<br />

accompanied by detailed written<br />

instructions.<br />

You are now free to explore each day at your<br />

own pace, leaving plenty of time to absorb<br />

the atmosphere of charming villages, enjoy<br />

leisurely picnics among the cornfields, <strong>and</strong><br />

swim in the many inviting lakes. All secure in<br />

the knowledge that a comfortable bed awaits<br />

at the end of each exhilarating day.<br />

04 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Traditional Cuisine<br />

Enjoying authentic regional cuisine is an important element<br />

of our tours. During a day’s cycling or walking, a little local<br />

flavour always adds to the overall ex<strong>per</strong>ience.<br />

Throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerl<strong>and</strong>, Slovenia <strong>and</strong> the Czech Republic, first-time visitors<br />

are pleasantly surprised by the quality, quantity <strong>and</strong> variety of the food. Surprisingly, even areas<br />

renowned for their meat dishes still cater well for vegetarians. In every location, £12-£20<br />

purchases a tasty meal to satisfy the heartiest appetite. For alfresco dining, picnickers will find an<br />

extraordinary selection in even the smallest village shop.<br />

The culinary possibilities are limitless... Whether it’s three–cheese fondue in the Swiss Alps,<br />

Bavarian Weisswurst (white sausage) with Weissbier, Kremna Rezina (Slovenian cream cake),<br />

roast pork with dumplings in Southern Bohemia or Austrian Weichselstrudel (sour cherry strudel),<br />

you’ll discover classic regional specialties <strong>and</strong> new gourmet sensations throughout your tour. And,<br />

of course, you’ll also sample the finest wines <strong>and</strong> beers <strong>from</strong> each region. Cheers!<br />

Our information pack includes an extensive translation section to help you choose <strong>from</strong> the<br />

exciting menu options available.<br />

No-hassle travel<br />

Getting to your holiday destination couldn’t be simpler. We offer scheduled flights with British<br />

Airways, Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, Adria Airways, Czech Airlines <strong>and</strong> KLM to Munich, Frankfurt,<br />

Salzburg, Vienna, Zurich, Genèva, Ljubljana <strong>and</strong> Prague <strong>from</strong> a choice of up to 15 UK departure<br />

airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, London City, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff, Bristol <strong>and</strong> Jersey.<br />

Using scheduled flights, we tailor your itinerary to your needs – allowing you to extend your stay<br />

in Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Switzerl<strong>and</strong> or the Czech Republic, before or after your holiday.<br />

We will be happy to advise you on possible arrangements.<br />

Onward transfer to your base hotel is made as easy as possible. Our representative will meet you<br />

at your arrival airport <strong>and</strong> you will be driven to your base hotel by minibus. For those wishing<br />

to drive to Germany, Austria, Switzerl<strong>and</strong>, Slovenia or the Czech Republic, there is ample safe<br />

parking at all our base hotels. We provide detailed instructions on how to find your base hotel <strong>and</strong>,<br />

at the end of your holiday, we arrange transport back to your starting point to pick up your car.<br />

We are also able to arrange your Channel crossing with Brittany Ferries, Hoverspeed or<br />

Eurotunnel.<br />

For travellers arriving independently, we provide information on how to find your base hotel using<br />

public transport.<br />

Holidaymakers arriving by air <strong>from</strong> a country other than the UK, may also be able to join our<br />

normal airport-to-hotel transfer.<br />

All holidaymakers making their own travel arrangements qualify for a price reduction – please refer<br />

to the price details for each tour.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with<br />

any airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Convenient luggage transfers<br />

While you are cycling or walking the route each day, one of our representatives will take all your<br />

belongings in our minibus to the next hotel – ensuring they are in your room by mid-afternoon.<br />

Our bicycles come equipped with a rack <strong>and</strong> pannier bag, so anything you may need during the<br />

day can be easily carried. We recommend that walkers bring a small daypack.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 05


Happy<br />

Holidaymakers<br />

06 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


“Just a big thank you for all the ingredients that add up<br />

to the relaxed <strong>and</strong> exciting holiday that we have come to<br />

expect with <strong>Bents</strong> holidays. Before we leave Engl<strong>and</strong> we<br />

are confident that every aspect of the holiday will be of<br />

the very highest st<strong>and</strong>ard. We always know the route will<br />

have been well tested <strong>and</strong> there will be more downhill<br />

than uphill cycling!”<br />

S. East, Brighton.<br />

“We have <strong>just</strong> completed our 10th cycling holiday with <strong>Bents</strong> nts nt<br />

<strong>and</strong> as we have come to expect, everything was, once again, ain,<br />

‘spot on’. The scenic rides, excellent hotels, friendly reps<br />

<strong>and</strong> good organisation always leave us wanting more <strong>and</strong> nd<br />

waiting eagerly for next years brochure. It is hard to<br />

beat the friendly, <strong>per</strong>sonal service of a small firm <strong>and</strong> d<br />

I would say to anyone thinking of taking a cycling<br />

holiday, ‘you can’t beat <strong>Bents</strong>’.”<br />

H. Powers, Power ,<br />

South Yorkshire.<br />

“Exhilarating riding, stunning scenery, relaxed<br />

<strong>and</strong> relaxing accommodation – a real treat!”<br />

I. Rigg, Slough.<br />

“It’s our dream holiday. Each morning we wake-up full of<br />

anticipation for the days cycling, savouring the scenery, food<br />

<strong>and</strong> wine as we go.”<br />

S. Beck, Gosport. p t.<br />

“It was like travelling business class all the way. What an<br />

excellent service.”<br />

K. Rex, Worksop.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 07


Cycling with <strong>Bents</strong><br />

Take to your bike, enjoy the feeling of freedom<br />

<strong>and</strong> ex<strong>per</strong>ience European hospitality at its best...<br />

Established in 1986, we at <strong>Bents</strong> have been providing the very best European cycling holiday ex<strong>per</strong>ience for more than a quarter of a century. Our winning formula balances<br />

freedom <strong>and</strong> independence with a high level of service <strong>and</strong> support. Our routes are the result of detailed research – we have found quiet lanes <strong>and</strong> forest paths that lead<br />

you off the beaten track <strong>and</strong> steer you around any big hills.<br />

We have chosen wonderful hotels in excellent locations, so places of local interest are accessible by bike or on foot. At each hotel you spend two nights (except on our ‘One Night Stops’ option <strong>and</strong><br />

our Moselle tour), allowing you time to unwind <strong>and</strong> get to know these interesting towns <strong>and</strong> villages.<br />

Our representatives ensure that everything runs smoothly. Each is fluent in the local language <strong>and</strong> has a keen interest in the region. From meeting you at the airport to preparing the bicycles <strong>and</strong><br />

transferring luggage between hotels, they are on h<strong>and</strong> to offer advice <strong>and</strong> insight.<br />

Suitable for all levels of fitness<br />

You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to really enjoy all the benefits of a leisurely cycling holiday <strong>and</strong> the great places it<br />

can take you...<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> cycling holidays - available in two formats<br />

All except one of our tours are now available in two formats. The ‘Original <strong>Bents</strong> Formula’<br />

of two night stays at each hotel, moving on alternate days, is available for all departure dates.<br />

Our ‘One Night Stops’ itinerary, where you stay two nights in your first hotel followed by<br />

<strong>just</strong> a single night in each subsequent hotel, is offered on selected dates. Our Moselle Tour<br />

(p20), has a specially chosen itinerary tailored to the l<strong>and</strong>scape.<br />

How difficult is a <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> Tour?<br />

A <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> Tour is no Tour de France! Instead, imagine a gentle potter at your own<br />

pace through the lush German, Austrian, Swiss, Slovenian <strong>and</strong> Czech countryside with<br />

time to savour all the atmosphere of these friendly regions.<br />

In Up<strong>per</strong> Bavaria, we take you to the mountains but not over them. Immediately south of<br />

Munich, the rolling hills of the alpine forel<strong>and</strong> rise up, gradually growing until they reach the<br />

Alps at the border with Austria. Once in Austria, majestic mountains are all around – however,<br />

where there are hills <strong>and</strong> mountains, there are valleys <strong>and</strong> lakes, <strong>and</strong> these are the ways we<br />

have found for you.<br />

The Moselle is a joy for those wishing to take it easy. The journey follows the me<strong>and</strong>ering river<br />

downstream <strong>and</strong>, whilst the scenery is spectacular with vineyards <strong>and</strong> castles clinging to steep<br />

hillsides, the only ascents en route are the bridges as you hop <strong>from</strong> one river bank to the other.<br />

The terrain in the Black Forest is more challenging than other regions. However, we have<br />

minimised the difficulty levels: during the tour, there are <strong>just</strong> three or four extended climbs<br />

(<strong>and</strong>, of course, the equivalent number of long descents!). We’ve also reduced the distances<br />

involved – so you’ll have plenty of time to take it easy.<br />

Slovenia is <strong>per</strong>fect for cycling; a medley of majestic mountains <strong>and</strong> beautiful rolling meadows.<br />

Our tour starts among the high peaks <strong>and</strong> gradually loses altitude en route to the capital;<br />

Ljubjlana.<br />

Bohemia in the Czech Republic is a wonderful patchwork of lakes, rolling pasturel<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

wooded hills. Our tour follows valleys <strong>and</strong> contours for a relaxing journey through the unspoilt<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape.<br />

Switzerl<strong>and</strong> is a mountainous country <strong>and</strong> certainly the scenery is spectacular. However, our<br />

routes through Appenzellerl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong>, <strong>from</strong> Gruyères to Lake Genèva, are no more strenuous<br />

than those in Bavaria or Austria. Gently undulating alpine meadows, me<strong>and</strong>ering valleys <strong>and</strong><br />

lakeside cycle paths are the routes we have chosen.<br />

Who can enjoy a <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> Tour?<br />

Anyone who is healthy <strong>and</strong> can ride a bike will enjoy our holidays. We try particularly hard to<br />

cater for children, so that the whole family can cycle together.<br />

We have a range of lightweight bicycles for the over 8s, <strong>and</strong> we find that most children <strong>from</strong><br />

this age have no difficulty in wearing out their parents! For infants <strong>and</strong> toddlers, we have the<br />

latest in child-seats <strong>from</strong> Kettler (probably the safest <strong>and</strong> most comfortable on the market) <strong>and</strong><br />

suitable for children under five.<br />

For children aged between 4 <strong>and</strong> 10, we also have top-of-the range Burley trailer bikes which<br />

attach to the back of an adult bicycle <strong>and</strong> effectively transform it into a t<strong>and</strong>em.<br />

The child can pedal while remaining completely under the control of the adult bicycle. With<br />

your luggage carried for you, you won’t find it a chore to bring the children along.<br />

We also have electric bicycles which are available at a small supplement. Should you choose<br />

one, you will ride up hills with ease <strong>and</strong> keep going longer <strong>and</strong> further with minimal effort.<br />

All our electric bicycles are supplied with two batteries to ensure they keep going all day.<br />

Fit <strong>and</strong> healthy gr<strong>and</strong>parents can also come along for the ride!<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> difficulty rating<br />

! EASY<br />

!! EASY - MODERATE<br />

!!! MODERATE<br />

!!!! MODERATE+<br />

08 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Top of the range bikes for<br />

your enjoyment<br />

We pay particular attention to the quality of the bicycles<br />

provided. After thorough testing, we have decided upon the<br />

Sonoran, a Dawes top-of-the-range trekking bike.<br />

The bicycle is <strong>per</strong>fectly suited to the terrain encountered on our tours, designed for both roads <strong>and</strong><br />

tracks. It combines lightness with robust dependability <strong>and</strong> features 24 gears, comfortable sprung<br />

saddle, mud guards, rear carrier, pannier bag, <strong>and</strong> chain guard.<br />

We have limited numbers of Dawes mountainbike t<strong>and</strong>ems <strong>and</strong> Giant electric trekking bicycles.<br />

The electric bicycle will help you ride up hills with ease <strong>and</strong> enable you to keep going longer <strong>and</strong><br />

further with minimal effort. T<strong>and</strong>ems <strong>and</strong> electric bicycles may be booked on a first-come, first<br />

served basis for a small supplement.<br />

Top of the range children’s mountain<br />

bikes <strong>from</strong> Giant<br />

BENTS CHALLENGE 2012<br />

Ever dreamt of riding <strong>from</strong> L<strong>and</strong>’s End to<br />

John O’Groats?<br />

In September 2012 <strong>Bents</strong> will be running a fully supported <strong>and</strong><br />

accompanied ride <strong>from</strong> L<strong>and</strong>’s End to John O’Groats. The tour<br />

will be <strong>per</strong>sonally led by Stephen Bent.<br />

The route will be along quieter, scenic roads <strong>and</strong> the average<br />

daily distance will be 80 miles. Full details will be published on<br />

our website:<br />

www.bentstours.com/lejog<br />

Are you up for the challenge? Come <strong>and</strong> join us!<br />

Dawes bike available in mens <strong>and</strong><br />

ladies frame<br />

Top of the range mountain bike t<strong>and</strong>em<br />

available at a small supplement<br />

Giant electric trekking bicycles (supplied<br />

with 2 batteries) in mens <strong>and</strong> ladies<br />

frames at a small supplement<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 09


Garmisch <strong>and</strong> the Romantic Castles<br />

What makes Bavaria such an inspiring destination? Discover<br />

the secrets of this fascinating region while freewheeling<br />

via pine forests, magnificent lakes <strong>and</strong> spectacular alpine<br />

scenery, including Germany’s highest peak.<br />

Spa towns, beer-brewing 8th century monasteries, fairytale<br />

castles, royal mountain retreats, <strong>and</strong> Rococo art… Bavaria<br />

will surprise you at every twist <strong>and</strong> turn.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Oberammergau<br />

Neuschwanstein<br />

Bernried<br />

Garmisch-<br />

Partenkirchen<br />

Lenggries<br />

Kochel<br />

9 or 13 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 6 or 8 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Lenggries, Bad Tölz <strong>and</strong> Kochel – beautiful Bavarian towns <strong>and</strong> villages<br />

• Garmisch-Partenkirchen – one of Germany’s premier resorts, combining<br />

elegance with rustic charm<br />

• Germany’s highest mountain: The Zugspitze<br />

• ‘Mad’ King Ludwig’s Romantic Castles: Neuschwanstein <strong>and</strong> Linderhof<br />

• Fabulous frescoes at the Wies Church<br />

• Oberammergau – famous for wood carving <strong>and</strong> wonderful murals<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Munich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base<br />

hotel in Lenggries.<br />

Day 2: Lenggries. After breakfast we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. The rest<br />

of the day is yours to explore <strong>and</strong> enjoy<br />

Lenggries <strong>and</strong> the surrounding countryside.<br />

In winter Lenggries is an excellent ski resort;<br />

by summer it becomes a popular mountain<br />

walking centre. Situated on the Isar Valley,<br />

majestic mountains rise up on all sides; they<br />

are easily accessible by foot <strong>and</strong> cable car,<br />

with many splendid walks to choose <strong>from</strong>.<br />

For those who wish to make an excursion<br />

by bicycle, there are plenty of paths <strong>and</strong><br />

quiet lanes that wind their way along both<br />

sides of the valley. Just a few miles to the<br />

north is the picturesque spa town of Bad<br />

Tölz; the beautiful cobbled old town is well<br />

worth a visit. Munich is also easy to reach,<br />

<strong>just</strong> a short train ride away.<br />

Day 3: Lenggries to Kochel. Cycling<br />

out of Lenggries you branch away <strong>from</strong> the<br />

River Isar <strong>and</strong> follow a tributary, the Jachen.<br />

This wide lush green valley rises gently to<br />

one of Bavaria’s jewels, Lake Walchen. A<br />

short climb <strong>from</strong> the lakeside is rewarded<br />

by a long winding descent to Kochel, a<br />

town oozing with Bavarian charm. 20 miles<br />

(32km).<br />

Day 4: Kochel. The town of Kochel lies<br />

on the shores of one of Bavaria’s most<br />

pleasant bathing lakes: the Kochelsee. To<br />

the north extends a flat moorl<strong>and</strong> plain,<br />

crisscrossed by cycle tracks. On the eastern<br />

edge of the plain lies Benediktbeuern<br />

Monastery, originally founded in the 8th<br />

century. The remarkable architecture <strong>and</strong><br />

lavish decorations, with a strong Italian<br />

influence, provide an attractive focus for<br />

a day out cycling. To the south, the Alps<br />

rear up steeply, offering an enormous<br />

variety of interesting day walks. The nearby<br />

Herzogst<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Jochberg Mountains are<br />

easily climbed in a day <strong>and</strong> will reward you<br />

with spectacular views.<br />

Day 5: Kochel to Garmisch-<br />

Partenkirchen. Your route today follows<br />

the River Loisach along its broad glaciated<br />

valley. Nearing Garmisch you will be treated<br />

to even more spectacular views of the<br />

towering Alps that form the backdrop for<br />

this popular resort. 22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 6: Garmisch-Partenkirchen.<br />

Lying in an open mountain basin, Garmisch<br />

sits beneath Germany’s highest peak, the<br />

Zugspitze. For those keen to be active there<br />

are a huge variety of walks, bike rides <strong>and</strong><br />

enticing lakes in the area. Excellent shops,<br />

restaurants <strong>and</strong> cafés will encourage you<br />

to spend your day in the town, while<br />

panoramic views of the Alps may tempt you<br />

to take a cable car to the Zugspitze summit.<br />

Day 7: Garmisch-Partenkirchen to<br />

Neuschwanstein. Much of today is spent<br />

in Austria. Leaving Garmisch you head to<br />

the Austrian border post at Griesen, where<br />

a forest track will lead you to the Plan<br />

Lake, a narrow strip of crystal clear water,<br />

cradled by steep wooded slopes. From<br />

here you pedal through some magnificent<br />

10 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Tyrolean scenery before crossing back<br />

into Germany at Neuschwanstein.<br />

28 miles (45km).<br />

Day 8: Neuschwanstein. Just a few<br />

minutes’ walk <strong>from</strong> your hotel lies the<br />

fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein. The<br />

most renowned of ‘Mad King Ludwig’s’<br />

creations is set amongst towering peaks,<br />

making it one of Germany’s most striking<br />

images.<br />

Day 9: Neuschwanstein to<br />

Oberammergau. After a gentle morning<br />

me<strong>and</strong>ering down the Lech Valley you<br />

will head way off the beaten track, on<br />

roads reserved for the local farmers. A<br />

splendid highlight to this peaceful day is<br />

the ornate Wies Church, accepted as the<br />

finest example of Rococo art in Southern<br />

Germany. 24 miles (38km).<br />

Day 10: Oberammergau. A charming<br />

picture postcard village whose inhabitants<br />

present a Passion play every 10 years in<br />

thanks for being spared the ravages of<br />

the plague in 1634. The village is also<br />

home to Bavaria’s wood-carving school<br />

<strong>and</strong> many shops display the fruits of<br />

their craft. A gentle excursion by bicycle<br />

leads to Linderhof Castle; ‘Mad King<br />

Ludwig’s’ mountain retreat. This small but<br />

ornamental palace is set in pretty gardens<br />

<strong>and</strong> a tour includes a trip underground<br />

where King Ludwig created a grotto <strong>and</strong><br />

lake. Ettal Monastery lies on the return<br />

route where the magnificent church<br />

is lavishly decorated <strong>and</strong>, the monks<br />

produce a richly flavoured beer <strong>and</strong><br />

several aromatic Schnapps.<br />

Day 11: Oberammergau to<br />

Bernried. The day begins with a gentle<br />

descent following the fast-flowing River<br />

Ammer downstream. As the valley<br />

broadens, a myriad of quiet lanes <strong>and</strong><br />

tracks weave their way through beautiful<br />

rolling countryside to Bernried; a peaceful<br />

village nestling on the shores of Lake<br />

Starnberg. 28 miles (45km).<br />

Day 12: Bernried. Lake Starnberg is <strong>just</strong><br />

100 yards <strong>from</strong> your hotel, with excellent<br />

beaches <strong>and</strong> water-sports facilities nearby.<br />

The surrounding countryside; a mosaic of<br />

cornfields, wheatfields <strong>and</strong> pine forests, is<br />

knitted together with a maze of quiet lanes<br />

<strong>and</strong> tracks; ideal for a final adventure on<br />

the bike. We suggest a route to Andechs,<br />

a famous beer-brewing monastery.<br />

Alternatively, Munich is <strong>just</strong> a short train<br />

ride away, offering a wealth of interesting<br />

attractions.<br />

Day 13: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Bernried to Munich airport<br />

by train or minibus <strong>and</strong> look forward to<br />

having you back again next year.<br />

9 DAY TOUR<br />

Days 1 to 8: see 13 Day Tour<br />

Day 9: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. Transfer direct <strong>from</strong><br />

Neuschwanstein to Munich airport by<br />

train or minibus.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

18ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

21ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

19ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £799 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

13 Day Tour<br />

(12 Nights, 6 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 14, 16, 30 £1219<br />

July 2 £1219<br />

July 16, 18, 30 £1259<br />

August 1, 15, 17 £1259<br />

August 29 £1219<br />

8 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(7 Nights, 6 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 16 £929<br />

July 2 £929<br />

July 18 £959<br />

August 1, 17 £959<br />

August 29 £929<br />

9 Day Tour<br />

(8 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 14, 16, 30 £979<br />

July 2 £979<br />

July 16, 18, 30 £1009<br />

August 1, 15, 17 £1009<br />

August 29 £979<br />

6 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(5 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 16 £799<br />

July 2 £799<br />

July 18 £829<br />

August 1, 17 £829<br />

August 29 £799<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Munich.<br />

• Return transfer between Munich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Munich or Salzburg, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Munich<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 11<br />

Salzburg


Ludwig’s Versailles <strong>and</strong> Mozart’s Salzburg<br />

From the cobbled streets of quiet fairytale towns dating<br />

back to the Middle Ages to the famous castles <strong>and</strong><br />

museums of Mozart’s hometown, this region is an ode to<br />

history, culture <strong>and</strong> passion.<br />

Cycling through rolling farml<strong>and</strong>, dotted with pretty<br />

rural villages, <strong>and</strong> sun-drenched meadows <strong>and</strong> shady<br />

green forests, your spirits will be lifted – especially with<br />

the snow-capped blue of the Alps rising <strong>from</strong> golden<br />

wheatfields <strong>and</strong> lush green pastures.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Wasserburg<br />

Prien<br />

Inzell<br />

Salzburg<br />

Berchtesgaden<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Wasserburg – a medieval town with a fascinating history<br />

• Bavaria’s largest lake: The Chiemsee<br />

• ‘Mad’ King Ludwig’s Isl<strong>and</strong> Palace: Schloss Herrenchiemsee<br />

• Berchtesgaden – a pretty resort nestling beneath Germany’s<br />

second highest mountain: the Watzmann. Attractions include:<br />

Saltmines, the Eagle’s Nest – Hitler’s alpine retreat <strong>and</strong> the<br />

spectacular Konigsee<br />

• Salzburg – an enchanting city steeped in history, famous as<br />

Mozart’s birthplace<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Munich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base<br />

hotel in Wasserburg.<br />

Day 2: Wasserburg. After breakfast<br />

we will <strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with<br />

your bicycle ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit<br />

for everyone. You are then left free<br />

to explore Wasserburg <strong>and</strong> the<br />

surrounding countryside. Situated on a<br />

promontory, encircled by a loop in the<br />

River Inn, Wasserburg dates back to<br />

the Middle Ages. The narrow cobbled<br />

streets <strong>and</strong> high façades conjure vivid<br />

images of fairy tales. The town is very<br />

atmospheric with a wealth of historic<br />

buildings, museums, pavement cafés<br />

<strong>and</strong> Keller bars. Set in rolling farml<strong>and</strong>,<br />

dotted with pretty rural villages, the<br />

area provides an excellent introduction<br />

to cycling in Bavaria. On the outskirts<br />

of the town is a large swimming pool<br />

complex with water slides <strong>and</strong> every<br />

other facility imaginable.<br />

Day 3: Wasserburg to Prien.<br />

Peaceful lanes <strong>and</strong> immaculately<br />

maintained tracks weave their way<br />

through sun-drenched meadows <strong>and</strong><br />

shady green forests, with the snowcapped<br />

blue of the Alps rising out of<br />

the horizon as you head south-east to<br />

Prien. 20 miles (32km).<br />

Day 4: Prien. Lying on the shores of<br />

Bavaria’s largest lake, the Chiemsee,<br />

Prien is in the heart of Germany’s<br />

Riviera. The views across the lake are<br />

spectacular: colourful yachts follow<br />

their leisurely course between the two<br />

famous isl<strong>and</strong>s, framed by a majestic<br />

mountainous backdrop. An old paddle<br />

steamer o<strong>per</strong>ates as a ferry to the<br />

isl<strong>and</strong>s. The Herreninsel is home to<br />

Schloss Herrenchiemsee, built by ‘Mad<br />

King Ludwig’ between 1878 <strong>and</strong> 1885.<br />

The palace is set in magnificent gardens,<br />

<strong>and</strong> is a remarkable copy of Versailles.<br />

The Fraueninsel, a much smaller isl<strong>and</strong>,<br />

has a charming fishing village <strong>and</strong> a<br />

Benedictine monastery dating <strong>from</strong> the<br />

13th century.<br />

Day 5: Prien to Inzell. Closer to<br />

the Alps now, the scenery becomes<br />

more dramatic. The route skirts the<br />

Chiemsee <strong>and</strong> then heads across a flat<br />

plain to Siegsdorf, a charming village<br />

nestling in a cradle of high peaks. The<br />

final few miles to Inzell follow a pretty<br />

path along the Rote Traun Valley,<br />

formerly a salt-traders route. 26 miles<br />

(42km).<br />

Day 6: Inzell. A popular ski resort<br />

in winter, Inzell becomes a mountain<br />

walking centre in summer. The<br />

surrounding area is breathtakingly<br />

beautiful, with lofty peaks all around. A<br />

vast network of tracks <strong>and</strong> paths lead<br />

into the mountains, many accessible by<br />

bike. We have discovered two excellent<br />

round-trip cycle rides through<br />

12 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


the mountains as detailed in your<br />

information pack.<br />

Day 7: Inzell to Berchtesgaden.<br />

The route follows narrow, steeply-sided<br />

valleys passing through picture-postcard<br />

villages <strong>and</strong> the famous resort of Bad<br />

Reichenhall. Unforgettable view after<br />

view will keep your cameras clicking.<br />

22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 8: Berchtesgaden. This bustling<br />

tourist town has a huge variety of<br />

attractions to offer. A guided tour of<br />

the local salt mines includes dressing<br />

up in miner’s clothing <strong>and</strong> crossing an<br />

illuminated subterranean lake on a raft.<br />

Other sights to see are the Konigsee - a<br />

scenic mountain lake; the Eagle’s Nest<br />

- Hitler’s alpine retreat; Berchtesgaden<br />

Castle, situated in the centre of the<br />

town; <strong>and</strong> the church at Ramsau,<br />

probably the most photographed<br />

church in Germany.<br />

Day 9: Berchtesgaden to<br />

Salzburg. A pleasant morning’s ride as<br />

you watch the mountains slowly recede<br />

<strong>and</strong> the valleys gradually widen. The<br />

farmers are once again able to impose<br />

their will on the l<strong>and</strong>, painting the<br />

countryside with golden wheatfields <strong>and</strong><br />

lush green pastures. In the afternoon,<br />

the route follows the River Saalach<br />

downstream to Salzburg. 26 miles<br />

(42km).<br />

Day 10: Salzburg. Your hotel is<br />

located right at the heart of Salzburg old<br />

town on a quiet semi-pedestrianised<br />

street. There are countless things to see<br />

<strong>and</strong> do in Mozart’s birthplace: castles,<br />

museums, cafés <strong>and</strong> gardens will all<br />

compete for your attention. For those<br />

wishing to explore beyond the city, we<br />

suggest following the traffic-free cycle<br />

routes along the banks of the River<br />

Salzach.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Salzburg to Munich airport<br />

by train or by minibus, <strong>and</strong> look forward<br />

to having you back again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

19ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

22ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

Munich<br />

20ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> <strong>£859</strong> <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 19 £1079<br />

July 5 £1079<br />

July 21 £1129<br />

August 4, 20 £1129<br />

Salzburg<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 19 <strong>£859</strong><br />

July 5 <strong>£859</strong><br />

July 21 £889<br />

August 4, 20 £889<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Munich.<br />

• Return transfer between Munich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps a visit to<br />

Munich or extra time in Salzburg, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 13


Bavarian Lakes <strong>and</strong> Austria’s Tyrol<br />

Cycling through dramatic scenery of rolling alpine<br />

meadows, crystal clear lakes, majestic mountains <strong>and</strong> dense<br />

pine forests, you’ll encounter a series of idyllic hamlets<br />

<strong>and</strong> villages where the excellent Gasthofs exude Bavarian<br />

charm <strong>and</strong> hospitality.<br />

Best of all, a ride through the broad glaciated Leutasch<br />

Valley is a truly breathtaking ex<strong>per</strong>ience.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!!<br />

Garmisch-<br />

Partenkirchen<br />

Seefeld<br />

Wallgau<br />

Spitzingsee<br />

Kreuth<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Spitzingsee – a village enjoying a spectacular lakeside location<br />

surrounded by high peaks (a popular destination for cyclists <strong>and</strong> walkers)<br />

• Bayrischzell – considered one of Bavaria’s most beautiful villages<br />

• Rottach-Egern – a chic lakeside resort<br />

• The Hotel Post Wallgau – an exceptional old building with<br />

fantastic murals<br />

• The route passes along the magnificent Leutasch Valley<br />

beneath the awe inspiring Wetterstein Range<br />

• Seefeld <strong>and</strong> Garmisch-Partenkirchen – two elegant resorts separated by<br />

the Wettersteins <strong>and</strong> the Austrian/German border<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Munich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base hotel<br />

in Spitzingsee.<br />

Day 2: Spitzingsee. After breakfast we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. You<br />

are then free to explore Spitzingsee <strong>and</strong> its<br />

environs. Surrounded by spectacular peaks,<br />

Spitzingsee lies on the shores of a crystal<br />

clear lake bearing the same name. Gondola<br />

lifts reach into the mountains on either side<br />

<strong>and</strong> a network of tracks <strong>and</strong> paths create a<br />

ramblers paradise. Our suggested cycle ride<br />

is a little more strenuous than we would<br />

normally recommend on the first day, but it is<br />

a truly spectacular tour. The route descends<br />

to the valley below, before passing through<br />

Bayrischzell, considered one of Bavaria’s most<br />

beautiful villages. The height is then gradually<br />

regained by climbing a small saddle on a<br />

glorious cycle track through the mountains.<br />

Day 3: Spitzingsee to Kreuth. A narrow<br />

lane closed to normal traffic follows the<br />

Rote Valepp River south through a mixture<br />

of rolling alpine meadows <strong>and</strong> dense pine<br />

forest. The other branch of the Valepp River,<br />

the Weisse Valepp, joins <strong>from</strong> the west<br />

<strong>and</strong> the route turns upstream to the pretty<br />

lakeside resort, Rottach-Egern. Enjoying a<br />

wonderful location on the southern shores of<br />

one of Bavaria’s most picturesque lakes, the<br />

Tegernsee, Rottach-Egern is endowed with<br />

a vast array of elegant cafés <strong>and</strong> restaurants.<br />

Kreuth lies <strong>just</strong> a few miles to the south, along<br />

the Weissach valley. 18 miles (29km).<br />

Day 4: Kreuth. A small village, Kreuth is<br />

an oasis of calm, where the appreciation of<br />

nature is the primary draw for its visitors.<br />

Surrounded by magnificent alpine scenery,<br />

cycling <strong>and</strong> walking opportunities abound.<br />

We suggest a marvellous route that<br />

circumnavigates the Hirschberg Mountain<br />

to the west. The loop travels back to<br />

Rottach-Egern <strong>and</strong> along the shores of the<br />

Tegernsee, before following a track between<br />

the mountains to complete the circle. An<br />

enchanting Gasthof lies along this quiet byway,<br />

offering simple fare in the most fantastic<br />

location.<br />

Day 5: Kreuth to Wallgau. A gentle<br />

climb <strong>from</strong> Kreuth takes the route over<br />

a low saddle, the Achenpass. You then<br />

continue along the shores of the sparkling<br />

Sylvensteinsee in the shadows of the towering<br />

Karwendel Mountains. There are few villages<br />

along today’s route, but there is an excellent<br />

Gasthof at Vorderiss, <strong>just</strong> after half distance.<br />

Beyond Vorderiss, the journey continues<br />

along a privately owned toll road (cyclists are<br />

free), which follows the course of the River<br />

Isar. This shaded lane me<strong>and</strong>ers through<br />

picturesque countryside for nine miles, before<br />

emerging at Wallgau. 26 miles (42km).<br />

Day 6: Wallgau. This charming village is<br />

set in the broad glaciated valley of the River<br />

Isar. This is an area of unspoilt natural beauty,<br />

with rolling green meadows, crystal clear<br />

lakes <strong>and</strong> majestic mountains, all enhanced<br />

by the ornately painted buildings. Cyclists<br />

<strong>and</strong> walkers are spoilt for choice, with a<br />

multitude of full <strong>and</strong> half day trips available.<br />

We also suggest a cycle ride to the beautiful<br />

Walchensee; Germany’s largest <strong>and</strong> deepest<br />

mountain lake.<br />

Day 7: Wallgau to Seefeld. The tour<br />

leaves Wallgau, heading south along the Isar<br />

14 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Valley to Mittenwald. The town is one of<br />

Bavaria’s best loved alpine resorts <strong>and</strong>, is<br />

squeezed tightly between awesome peaks<br />

at this narrowing of the valley. The tables<br />

of many Gasthofs <strong>and</strong> cafés spill onto the<br />

pretty pedestrianised centre, inviting you<br />

to take a mid-morning break. Leaving<br />

Mittenwald you pass through the Leutasch<br />

Gorge, cross the border into Austria <strong>and</strong>,<br />

emerge into a broad glaciated valley of<br />

the same name. The ride up the Leutasch<br />

Valley is truly breathtaking, high peaks rear<br />

up on either side <strong>and</strong>, a <strong>per</strong>fect little lane<br />

winds its way through a series of idyllic<br />

hamlets, each with at least one tempting<br />

Gasthof. Seefeld is <strong>just</strong> a few miles to the<br />

south of the Leutasch.<br />

22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 8: Seefeld. Situated on a mountain<br />

plateau above the northern side of the<br />

Inn Valley, Seefeld possesses the <strong>per</strong>fect<br />

location for a summer cycling or walking<br />

holiday. Low-lying pastures, forested slopes<br />

<strong>and</strong> rugged peaks surround Seefeld in all<br />

directions, with an unrivalled network of<br />

tracks <strong>and</strong> paths with which to explore. The<br />

small town has also been host to the Nordic<br />

skiing events at two Winter Olympics <strong>and</strong><br />

one World Skiing Championships. As a<br />

sophisticated ski resort, Seefeld boasts<br />

elegant cafés <strong>and</strong> restaurants <strong>and</strong>, excellent<br />

leisure facilities. The historic city of Innsbruck<br />

is also easy to reach, <strong>just</strong> a short train ride<br />

away.<br />

Day 9: Seefeld to Garmisch-<br />

Partenkirchen. A choice of two routes<br />

today, both equally scenic, but one a little<br />

longer <strong>and</strong> more adventurous than the<br />

other. Seefeld <strong>and</strong> Garmisch-Partenkirchen<br />

are separated by the Wettersteingebirge,<br />

the ridge of mountains that form the border<br />

between Austria <strong>and</strong> Germany in these<br />

parts. Both rides go around this forbidding<br />

range, which includes Germany’s highest<br />

mountain, the Zugspitze – one to the<br />

west, the other to the east. The western<br />

passage continues up the Leutasch Valley<br />

on a cycle track, traversing a small pass<br />

<strong>and</strong> then downhill all the way, via Ehrwald,<br />

to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The eastern<br />

choice retraces part of the Leutasch Valley,<br />

almost to Mittenwald, <strong>and</strong> then heads west<br />

on a marvellous lane past Schloss Elmau to<br />

Klais, before dropping down to Garmisch-<br />

Partenkirchen. 28 or 35 miles (45 or 56km).<br />

Day 10: Garmisch-Partenkirchen.<br />

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a rich blend of old<br />

<strong>and</strong> new, part modern, part traditional. The<br />

hyphen gives the clue that it is two towns<br />

joined together, Garmisch fully embracing<br />

the twentieth century <strong>and</strong> Partenkirchen<br />

preferring to cling to the past. The combined<br />

town has grown <strong>and</strong> pros<strong>per</strong>ed because of<br />

its fantastic location. Lying in a broad open<br />

basin formed by glacial erosion, the town is<br />

surrounded by mountains to the south, east<br />

<strong>and</strong> west. The skiing is su<strong>per</strong>b, the cycling<br />

<strong>and</strong> walking equally su<strong>per</strong>lative. There are<br />

innumerable things to do, but on a clear day,<br />

a mountain railway ride to the summit of the<br />

Zugspitze is hard to beat.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you direct<br />

<strong>from</strong> Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Munich<br />

airport by train or minibus, <strong>and</strong> look forward<br />

to welcoming you back again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

19ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

21ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

19ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> <strong>£859</strong> <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 24 £1079<br />

July 10, 24 £1129<br />

August 9, 23 £1129<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 24 <strong>£859</strong><br />

July 10, 24 £889<br />

August 9, 23 £889<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Munich.<br />

• Return transfer between Munich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Munich or Salzburg, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Munich<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 15<br />

Salzburg


Bavaria’s Allgäuer Alps<br />

Prepare to fall in love with the Allgäu! Situated in a remote<br />

south-west corner of Bavaria, this stunning region remains<br />

something of a hidden gem. Few cyclists have so far discovered<br />

the delights of this unspoilt <strong>and</strong> spectacular l<strong>and</strong>scape between<br />

Germany <strong>and</strong> Austria.<br />

As always in Bavaria, you can expect the famous hospitality <strong>and</strong><br />

passionate spirit of a distinctive culture that holds its traditional<br />

language, food, music, architecture <strong>and</strong> customs dear. From<br />

the natural majesty of the Southern Alps to the regal fantasy<br />

creation of Neuschwanstein, the dramatic countryside here<br />

includes a range of exhilarating cycling routes …<br />

Difficulty rating: !!!<br />

Bad Oberstaufen<br />

Hittisau<br />

Pfronten<br />

Oberstdorf<br />

Bad Bayersoien<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Discover exquisite Bavarian villages <strong>and</strong> towns like Bad Bayersoien,<br />

Füssen <strong>and</strong> Bad Oberstaufen<br />

• Pedal your way through the verdant Vils Valley beneath towering Alpine<br />

mountain ranges<br />

• Admire Neuschwanstein, the renowned fairytale castle created by ‘Mad’<br />

King Ludwig<br />

• Visit the friendly beer gardens, chic shops <strong>and</strong> interesting museums of<br />

Oberstdorf, a top German ski resort<br />

• Ex<strong>per</strong>ience the thrilling cable car ride up to the awesome Nebelhorn<br />

Peak<br />

• Enjoy spectacular views along traffic-free cycle lanes carved through the<br />

mountains<br />

• Indulge in rustic culinary delights at Michelin-rated restaurants in<br />

the gourmet enclave of Hittisau<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Munich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base<br />

hotel in Bad Bayersoien.<br />

Day 2: Bad Bayersoien. After<br />

breakfast, we <strong>per</strong>sonally equip you<br />

with your bicycle ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit<br />

for everyone. The day is then yours<br />

to explore Bad Bayersoien, a picture<strong>per</strong>fect<br />

Bavarian village set beside the<br />

Soiener See, a pretty bathing lake.<br />

With the dramatic backdrop of the<br />

Ammergauer Alps rearing up <strong>from</strong> the<br />

south, a maze of cycle routes traverse a<br />

picturesque nature reserve to the east.<br />

Day 3: Bad Bayersoien to<br />

Pfronten. Quiet lanes reserved for<br />

the local farmers lead west through lush<br />

alpine meadows to the Lech Valley.<br />

En route, you’ll pass Wies Church, a<br />

Rococo masterpiece. To the south,<br />

the imposing splendour of the Allgäuer<br />

Alps becomes yet more breathtaking<br />

as sleepy country lanes take us to<br />

Pfronten. 32 miles (54km).<br />

Day 4: Pfronten. A charming Bavarian<br />

town nestling in the verdant Vils Valley<br />

beneath the towering Aggenstein<br />

Mountain, Pfronten features traditional<br />

Bavarian houses, decorated with murals<br />

<strong>and</strong> colourful window-boxes, lining<br />

the main street. A cycle route along<br />

the Vils Valley leads to Füssen, a pretty<br />

medieval town crammed with historic<br />

buildings. On a nearby outcrop, st<strong>and</strong>s<br />

the fairytale vision of Neuschwanstein,<br />

the renowned castle built by ‘Mad’ King<br />

Ludwig.<br />

Day 5: Pfronten to Oberstdorf.<br />

To the southwest of Pfronten, the Vils<br />

Valley narrows <strong>and</strong> me<strong>and</strong>ers between<br />

wooded slopes. A traffic-free cycle<br />

route follows the valley before crossing<br />

the border into Austria <strong>and</strong> emerging<br />

near the gorgeous Tyrolean village of<br />

Schattwald. A winding descent then<br />

leads to Bad Hindelang, a prominent<br />

spa resort with traditional houses<br />

bedecked with summer blooms. From<br />

here, the glaciated Iller Valley stretches<br />

south to Oberstdorf. 24 miles (38km).<br />

Day 6: Oberstdorf. A lively town<br />

full of unique Bavarian character,<br />

Oberstdorf is one of Germany’s<br />

premier ski resorts. In summer, lovers<br />

of the great outdoors enjoy the fantastic<br />

cycling <strong>and</strong> walking available around<br />

here. Cosy cafés serving delicious cakes,<br />

Gasthofs with shaded beer gardens,<br />

chic shops <strong>and</strong> interesting museums<br />

all compete for your attention. Best<br />

of all, the thrilling cable car ride to the<br />

towering Nebelhorn Peak will simply<br />

take your breath away.<br />

Day 7: Oberstdorf to Hittisau.<br />

Today’s ride is an absolute gem<br />

– a narrow traffic-free lane carves<br />

through the mountains to the west<br />

of Oberstdorf to offer the ultimate<br />

16 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


enchanting ‘away <strong>from</strong> it all’ route<br />

through a nature reserve with<br />

spectacular views at every twist <strong>and</strong><br />

turn. 22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 8: Hittisau. Hittisau nestles in<br />

a beautiful Austrian valley amid the<br />

Bregenzer Alps. Close to the Swiss<br />

border, the architecture resembles that<br />

of its near neighbour – picture-<strong>per</strong>fect<br />

chalets clad with intricate wood tiles<br />

<strong>and</strong> vivid flower boxes. Although the<br />

village is home to <strong>just</strong> a few hundred<br />

residents, Hittisau boasts three Michelinrated<br />

restaurants (rustic venues with the<br />

emphasis on delicious local specialities<br />

rather than pretentious cooking <strong>and</strong> star<br />

ratings). Explore the su<strong>per</strong>b scenery of<br />

this peaceful corner of Austria along its<br />

numerous quiet lanes <strong>and</strong> tracks.<br />

Day 9: Hittisau to Bad<br />

Oberstaufen. Fortunately for us, the<br />

pure serenity of this area still remains<br />

a well-kept secret – its tranquillity <strong>and</strong><br />

exceptional beauty is truly inspiring: a<br />

cycling paradise of lush valleys dotted<br />

with chocolate box farmhouses <strong>and</strong><br />

immaculate villages linked by peaceful<br />

lanes. Our route continues north<br />

through this beguiling l<strong>and</strong>scape to the<br />

spa town, Bad Oberstaufen. 22 miles<br />

(35km).<br />

Day 10: Bad Oberstaufen.<br />

Regarded as Allgäu’s most charming<br />

village, Bad Oberstaufen is a stunning<br />

retreat of traditional buildings decorated<br />

with stunning murals <strong>and</strong> vibrant<br />

flowers. Relax in hospitable inns <strong>and</strong><br />

taste delightful Bavarian cuisine, or treat<br />

yourself to indulgent cakes in stylish<br />

cafés. It’s little wonder that this setting is<br />

equally appealing to cyclists <strong>and</strong> walkers.<br />

To the north, a labyrinth of quiet lanes<br />

offer enjoyable rides through pristine<br />

alpine meadows; the majestic peaks to<br />

the south, meanwhile, can be reached<br />

by cable car.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen” <strong>and</strong> transfer you back<br />

to Munich airport by train or minibus, <strong>and</strong><br />

look forward to welcoming you back again<br />

next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

19ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

22ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

20ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> <strong>£859</strong> <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 26 £1079<br />

July 12, 28 £1129<br />

August 11, 27 £1129<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 26 <strong>£859</strong><br />

July 12, 28 £889<br />

August 11, 27 £889<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Munich.<br />

• Return transfer between Munich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Munich, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Munich<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 17<br />

Salzburg


The Heart of the Black Forest<br />

Evocative <strong>and</strong> enchanting, the Black Forest is full of surprises.<br />

From the lightness of the lush valleys to the dense pine<br />

woodl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> rounded mountain range, this is a cycling<br />

adventure that navigates the vast network of routes weaving<br />

through the undulating l<strong>and</strong>scape.<br />

You can bathe in sun-drenched lakes, visit Germany’s highest<br />

waterfall, go cuckoo for the clocks (<strong>and</strong> the gateaux!) <strong>and</strong><br />

ex<strong>per</strong>ience the famous local hospitality.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!!<br />

FREIBERG<br />

Wolfach<br />

Triberg<br />

Freudenstadt<br />

St. Märgen<br />

Schluchsee<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Freudenstadt – attractive town centred around a vibrant <strong>and</strong> colourful<br />

main square<br />

• Open-air Vogtsbauernhof museum – depicts the architecture <strong>and</strong><br />

lifestyle of the Black Forest through the ages<br />

• Triberg – a bustling town at the heart of the Black Forest (<strong>and</strong> centre<br />

of the cuckoo clock universe!)<br />

• Gutacher Waterfalls – the highest in Germany<br />

• Majestic monastery churches at Sankt Märgen <strong>and</strong> Sankt Peter<br />

• Excellent beaches <strong>and</strong> watersports at Schluchsee<br />

Day1: Arrival at Stuttgart airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base<br />

hotel in Freudenstadt (meaning ‘joyful<br />

town’).<br />

Day 2: Freudenstadt. After breakfast,<br />

we <strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. You are<br />

then free to explore Freudenstadt <strong>and</strong> its<br />

surrounding countryside. Originally built in<br />

the 17th Century, Freudenstadt was a fine<br />

example of a renaissance town before being<br />

almost completely destroyed in the last<br />

war. The town was rapidly rebuilt <strong>and</strong> has<br />

become a showpiece of careful restoration,<br />

achieving a harmonious blend of old <strong>and</strong><br />

new. The pretty market square is mainly<br />

pedestrianised with numerous pavement<br />

cafes. Freudenstadt lies amid dense pine<br />

forests on a high plateau at the centre of<br />

the northern Black Forest. Quiet lanes <strong>and</strong><br />

tracks radiate through the delightful wooded<br />

hills, presenting a <strong>per</strong>fect introduction to<br />

cycling in the Black Forest.<br />

Day 3: Freudenstadt to Wolfach.<br />

After an initial climb, the remainder of<br />

the day is a gentle downhill run through<br />

the beautiful Wolfach valley. A quiet lane<br />

me<strong>and</strong>ers between sunbathed meadows<br />

<strong>and</strong> cool shady forests, accompanied by the<br />

soft gurgling of the River Wolfach. A dozen<br />

or so idyllic hamlets are spread along the<br />

route, each with its own Gasthof offering<br />

unique hospitality. 22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 4: Wolfach. An attractive village,<br />

Wolfach lies at the confluence of the rivers<br />

Wolfach <strong>and</strong> Kinzig. The village is home<br />

to an excellent glass-blowing museum,<br />

where the history of this traditional craft is<br />

documented. Attached to the museum is a<br />

working Gläshütte, where skilled craftsmen<br />

demonstrate their trade. Another wellknown<br />

museum is located at the nearby<br />

village, Gutach. The Vogtsbauernhof<br />

features a collection of typical farmhouses<br />

<strong>from</strong> across the Black Forest which have<br />

been reassembled complete with their<br />

furnishings, implements <strong>and</strong> vehicles.<br />

A further excursion to Schiltach is also<br />

recommended. Six miles east of Wolfach<br />

along the Kinzig valley, Schiltach is an<br />

unspoilt village with tall timbered houses<br />

lining its narrow streets. During the<br />

summer, geraniums <strong>and</strong> petunias burst <strong>from</strong><br />

every window box, painting the village in<br />

vivid colours.<br />

Day 5: Wolfach to Triberg. A truly<br />

beautiful ride on quiet country lanes <strong>and</strong><br />

tracks through the heart of the Black Forest.<br />

Lunch will certainly be earned, as the first<br />

half of the day is spent gradually climbing the<br />

Kirnbach Valley. By mid-day, the gradient<br />

eases <strong>and</strong> the route hugs the contours,<br />

winding its way through forests <strong>and</strong><br />

meadows populated by grazing cattle. This<br />

untamed gr<strong>and</strong>eur will undoubtedly etch<br />

itself in your memory. 20 miles (32km).<br />

Day 6: Triberg. Triberg is at the centre<br />

of clock-making country. Here the Black<br />

Forest’s most famous symbol, the cuckoo<br />

18 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


clock, is produced. An excursion by<br />

bicycle passes the nearby villages,<br />

Schonach (home to the world’s largest<br />

working cuckoo clock) <strong>and</strong> Schönwald<br />

where an ancient, gnarled farmhouse<br />

st<strong>and</strong>s unobtrusively by the roadside.<br />

Within walking distance of the town<br />

centre is the highest waterfall in<br />

Germany – a path leads up the falls,<br />

cascading a total of 160m in seven<br />

stages.<br />

Day 7: Triberg to Sankt Märgen.<br />

Another day to enjoy the enchanting<br />

scenery away <strong>from</strong> the main tourist<br />

routes. An initial climb <strong>from</strong> Triberg<br />

leads to a l<strong>and</strong>scape of rolling hills,<br />

wooded peaks <strong>and</strong> lush pastured<br />

valleys. Charming farmhouses <strong>and</strong><br />

inviting inns decorate the slopes. The<br />

halfway point is reached at Furtwangen,<br />

where an excellent clock museum<br />

celebrates the skills of generations of<br />

local craftsmen. 18 miles (29km).<br />

Day 8: Sankt Märgen. A picturesque<br />

holiday resort popular with walkers<br />

in summer <strong>and</strong> skiers in winter, Sankt<br />

Märgen boasts an idyllic location. To<br />

the west, the Black Forest Massif falls<br />

away precipitously to the Rhine Valley,<br />

while to the north, south <strong>and</strong> east are<br />

wooded peaks rippling into the distant<br />

horizon. The village profile is dominated<br />

by the imposing monastery church<br />

whose twin towers are visible for miles<br />

around. Interesting attractions nearby<br />

include St Peter, another village built<br />

around an ancient monastery <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Hexenlochmühle (meaning “Mill in the<br />

Witches’ Hole”), an old wooden saw<br />

mill.<br />

Day 9: Sankt Märgen to<br />

Schluchsee. A day of gentle<br />

undulations as the route traverses the<br />

high plateau of the up<strong>per</strong> Black Forest.<br />

The spectacular scenery is displayed<br />

at its best <strong>from</strong> the wonderful lanes<br />

<strong>and</strong> cycling tracks. A short detour at<br />

lunchtime leads to one of the region’s<br />

best-known resorts, Titisee – a pretty<br />

lake <strong>and</strong> village bearing the same<br />

name. The final leg me<strong>and</strong>ers south to<br />

Schluchsee, passing the stunning Lake<br />

Windgfäll. 19 miles (30km).<br />

Day 10: Schluchsee. The largest<br />

lake in the Black Forest is popular with<br />

tourists but retains an unspoilt natural<br />

aura. With plenty of fine beaches <strong>and</strong><br />

water warmed by the summer sun, this<br />

is a pleasant place for a dip. A cycling<br />

excursion to nearby Sankt Blasien<br />

is rewarding both for the splendid<br />

scenery en route <strong>and</strong> the magnificent<br />

monastery.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Schluchsee to Stuttgart<br />

airport by train or minibus <strong>and</strong> look<br />

forward to welcoming you back again<br />

next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

20ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

22ºC 24ºC 24ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

Stuttgart<br />

21ºC<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 26, 28 £1079<br />

July 8, 10 £1079<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

Munich<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> <strong>£859</strong> <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 28 <strong>£859</strong><br />

July 10 <strong>£859</strong><br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Stuttgart.<br />

• Return transfer between Stuttgart Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong><br />

independent travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Stuttgart, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 19


Magical Moselle Wine Route<br />

Easy does it… Cycling the length of the splendid Moselle Valley,<br />

one of Germany’s most renowned wine-producing regions, is<br />

effortlessly simple. As the Moselle River snakes down through<br />

the valley, you’ll find delight around every bend: enchanting<br />

medieval towns, craggy castles <strong>and</strong> charming vineyards which<br />

cover the sunny slopes. Need to quench your thirst? Head<br />

for the rustic wine bars <strong>and</strong> tasting cellars serving excellent<br />

dry white Rieslings <strong>and</strong> Piesporters – they’ve been enjoyed in<br />

these parts since Roman times. Above all, the Moselle wine<br />

route offers a stress-free sojourn that’s ideal for cycling holiday<br />

beginners or anyone who craves the pleasure of a scenic<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape, with no hills to climb!<br />

Difficulty rating: !<br />

Trier<br />

Bernkastel<br />

Trittenheim<br />

Cochem<br />

Zell<br />

8 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Trier – Germany’s oldest city – its roots go back to the Roman empire<br />

as you’ll see <strong>from</strong> the remains of Black Gate <strong>and</strong> the amphitheatre<br />

• Bernkastel – the romantic cobblestone streets of this small<br />

pedestrianised town <strong>and</strong> its picturesque market square featuring<br />

half-timbered buildings with bright flowers bursting <strong>from</strong> window boxes<br />

• Live like royalty during an overnight stay at Schloss Zell, a medieval<br />

castle in the quaint little town of Zell<br />

• Burg Eltz – regarded by many as Germany’s finest medieval castle<br />

– a fairytale fortress of impenetrable walls, towers <strong>and</strong> turrets<br />

• Sampling some of Germany’s finest wines, accompanied with<br />

traditional Zwiebelkuchen (savoury onion cake) – a unique<br />

gourmet treat<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Frankfurt<br />

Airport. Transfer by minibus, taxi or<br />

train to our base hotel in Trier.<br />

Day 2: Trier. After breakfast we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone.<br />

The day is then yours to explore Trier<br />

<strong>and</strong> the surrounding countryside. Trier<br />

is Germany’s oldest city – <strong>and</strong> you’ll<br />

soon discover why. Its Roman heritage<br />

ranges <strong>from</strong> the remarkably wellpreserved<br />

Porta Nigra (Black Gate) to<br />

the amphitheatre ruins where gladiators<br />

once battled. The Palastgarten (Palace<br />

Garden), a marvel of Baroque design, is<br />

also not to be missed. Choose to spend<br />

the whole day exploring historic Trier<br />

or an easy 10-mile ride into the Moselle<br />

Valley for a preview of the charming<br />

scenery you’ll soon enjoy.<br />

Day 3: Trier to Trittenheim. Today<br />

you’ll begin the gentle descent through<br />

the Moselle Valley <strong>and</strong> its famous<br />

wine route. As you weave your way<br />

alongside the river, the cycling is less<br />

than strenuous despite the rather hilly<br />

scenery. En route, you’ll pass small<br />

castle ruins <strong>and</strong> villages where the locals<br />

eat alfresco, enjoying Moselle wine<br />

with traditional savoury onion cake.<br />

And there’s also the opportunity to<br />

take your bike onto the frequent boat<br />

services. (Please note: if you can’t resist<br />

purchasing some of the local vintage,<br />

our reps are always happy to transport<br />

your bottles of wine). 22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 4: Trittenheim to Bernkastel.<br />

You’ll continue your journey with a<br />

similarly straightforward ride through<br />

picturesque wine country. Your<br />

destination today is a special one:<br />

Bernkastel, an atmospheric small<br />

town with charming historic buildings<br />

clustered together on both sides of<br />

the river, connected by a bridge. Stroll<br />

along its cobblestone streets <strong>and</strong> admire<br />

the medieval market square with halftimbered<br />

houses, Renaissance city<br />

hall <strong>and</strong> iconic Bärenbrunnen (Bear<br />

fountain), before retiring to a stylish<br />

hotel housed in a 17th Century building<br />

for a glass or two of Riesling in the<br />

original wine cellars. 20 miles (32km).<br />

Day 5: Bernkastel to Zell. Another<br />

day, another day’s cycling through<br />

some of Germany’s most alluring<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scapes. You’ll reluctantly leave the<br />

beauty of Bernkastel behind to continue<br />

making steady progress through the<br />

Moselle Valley. The reward for your<br />

exertions is a relaxing overnight stay at<br />

the amazing Schloss Zell: this medieval<br />

castle, located at the heart of the quaint<br />

little town of Zell on the Moselle River,<br />

houses an intimate hotel. You’ll be in<br />

good company – previous guests here<br />

have included Em<strong>per</strong>or Maximilian in<br />

1521 <strong>and</strong> the Prussian King Friedrich<br />

Wilhelm IV in 1847. 24 miles (38km).<br />

20 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Day 6: Zell to Cochem. Today<br />

you’ll be rewarded with more stunning<br />

scenery as your route continues along<br />

one of the prettiest stretches of the<br />

Moselle. Out of the saddle, Arras Castle<br />

makes a worthwhile mid-morning<br />

detour: walk to an outcrop above the<br />

valley, where a castle has proudly stood<br />

for over 1,000 years, for spectacular<br />

views <strong>from</strong> the elegant terrace<br />

restaurant or the ancient keep. There’s<br />

also the opportunity to see the original<br />

dungeon <strong>and</strong> torture chamber, as well<br />

as a museum chronicling Moselle Valley<br />

history. 23 miles (37km).<br />

Day 7: Cochem. Surrounded by<br />

vineyards, Cochem is a quintessential<br />

Moselle town, dominated by the<br />

imposing Reichsburg Castle that rises<br />

high above. Nevertheless, the famous<br />

Burg Eltz, arguably Germany’s finest<br />

medieval castle, is the real star. Only<br />

a 10-mile ride <strong>from</strong> Cochem, we<br />

highly recommend that you visit this<br />

formidable fortress with its mass of<br />

towers <strong>and</strong> turrets. Dating back over<br />

a thous<strong>and</strong> years, the castle contains<br />

priceless treasures including Gobelin<br />

tapestries. Most remarkable of all, Burg<br />

Eltz is still inhabited by descendants<br />

of its founders, 33 generations on.<br />

Alternatively, you can take a direct<br />

train to Koblenz – the city that rests<br />

on the banks where the Moselle <strong>and</strong><br />

Rhine Rivers meet. The Old Town,<br />

painstakingly reconstructed after World<br />

War II, is worth a w<strong>and</strong>er. Meanwhile,<br />

Kaisserin Augusta Park provides a blissful<br />

spot for a riverside picnic.<br />

Day 8: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer<br />

you direct <strong>from</strong> Cochem to Frankfurt<br />

Airport by train or minibus <strong>and</strong>, look<br />

forward to welcoming you back again<br />

next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

20ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

23ºC 25ºC 24ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

21ºC<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

8 Day Tour<br />

(7 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

July 19, 21, 28, 30 £929<br />

August 6, 8, 15, 17 £929<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

Berlin<br />

Frankfurt<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £929 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Frankfurt.<br />

• Return transfer between Frankfurt Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong><br />

independent travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Koblenz or Frankfurt, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 21


Austrian Wine <strong>and</strong> the best of the Danube<br />

Discover why Austrian wine is the connoisseurs’ best-kept secret.<br />

In fact, the small yet beautiful wine culture of this region means<br />

you’ll sample wines rarely found outside Austria. And what<br />

makes Austrian wine so special? The tradition of winemaking<br />

for thous<strong>and</strong>s of years has created world-class dry white wines,<br />

serious reds <strong>and</strong> some of the best sweet wines on earth.<br />

So join us as we traverse through the beautiful Weinviertel<br />

region of north-eastern Austria, the country’s largest wine<br />

growing region, boasting charming wine villages <strong>and</strong> towns.<br />

We’ll ride through delightful countryside of apricot orchards <strong>and</strong><br />

steep terraced vineyards, stopping in sleepy medieval villages<br />

for a slice of traditional Viennese Sachertorte (a delicious gooey<br />

chocolate cake) <strong>and</strong> a glass or two of local wine, with the<br />

Danube itself providing a majestic backdrop.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Dürnstein<br />

Melk<br />

Krems<br />

Stockerau<br />

Tulln<br />

Klosterneuburg<br />

Poysdorf<br />

Mistelbach<br />

Wolkersdorf<br />

Vienna<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Uncorking the finest wines <strong>from</strong> the region <strong>and</strong> discovering the wine<br />

world’s best-kept secret<br />

• Klosterneuburg Priory <strong>and</strong> Stift Melk – two of the most historic <strong>and</strong><br />

influential Austrian monasteries<br />

• Exploring the unique small towns of Poysdorf, Tulln, Dürnstein <strong>and</strong> Melk<br />

• Enjoying the enchanting scenery of the Danube River region as we cycle<br />

along unchallenging terrain<br />

• Eating <strong>and</strong> drinking in authentic Austrian Heurigers (Eastern-Austrian<br />

wine taverns) with traditional live music <strong>from</strong> guitars <strong>and</strong> accordions<br />

– musical themes invariably revolve around celebrating wine-drinking!<br />

• Vienna – Austria’s romantic capital is <strong>just</strong> a short train ride <strong>from</strong> your<br />

cycle route, or an excellent addition before or after your tour<br />

Day1: Arrival at Vienna Airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus, taxi or train to<br />

our base hotel in Poysdorf, gateway to<br />

Austria’s wine quarter.<br />

Day 2: Poysdorf. After breakfast we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone.<br />

The day is then yours to explore<br />

Poysdorf, an authentic wine village with<br />

picturesque Kellergassen (wine cellar<br />

lanes), <strong>and</strong> the gently rolling hills of the<br />

surrounding countryside. Stop by at a<br />

traditional Heuriger for a glass or two<br />

of local wine, or <strong>per</strong>haps treat yourself<br />

to a wine-themed massage using grapebased<br />

oils.<br />

Day 3: Poysdorf to Wolkersdorf.<br />

We head south for the first leg of our<br />

journey, with an undem<strong>and</strong>ing me<strong>and</strong>er<br />

through delightful vineyard terrain. Cycle<br />

through lush green meadows <strong>and</strong> shady<br />

forests as we make our way towards<br />

the old town of Wolkersdorf. Our<br />

hotel is also surrounded by beautiful<br />

countryside, including a trail that runs<br />

through Hochleiten forest <strong>and</strong> back<br />

through the local vineyards. 25 miles<br />

(40km).<br />

Day 4: Wolkersdorf. Today is<br />

yours to spend as you please – visit<br />

a local vineyard for a spot of winetasting,<br />

explore the town, or enjoy<br />

a gentle ride through the spectacular<br />

countryside around Wolkersdorf,<br />

me<strong>and</strong>ering through cool forests <strong>and</strong><br />

sun-drenched hills. Also, Vienna with all<br />

of its attractions, is <strong>just</strong> a 30 minute train<br />

ride away.<br />

Day 5: Wolkersdorf to Tulln.<br />

After leaving Wolkersdorf, we join the<br />

renowned Danube cycle route. The<br />

Austrian stretch offers diverse views<br />

<strong>and</strong> a whole host of sights, including<br />

castles, museums, churches, abbeys <strong>and</strong><br />

quaint villages, that bring new variety<br />

at each turn. Not to mention the wide<br />

bike paths <strong>and</strong> mostly easy route that<br />

gently slopes alongside the calm of<br />

the famous river. And we may stop at<br />

one of the Jausenstation, where a local<br />

family serves homemade cold cuts <strong>and</strong><br />

cheeses <strong>from</strong> picnic tables. 26 miles<br />

(42km).<br />

Day 6: Tulln. Located on the south<br />

bank of the Danube, Tulln was the site<br />

of the Roman camp of Comagena <strong>and</strong><br />

contains a third century Roman Tower,<br />

considered the oldest structure in<br />

Austria. This small town is also famous<br />

as the birthplace of the painter Egon<br />

Schiele. We highly recommend a ride<br />

to the remarkable Klosterneuburg<br />

Priory. Its foundations, including a castle<br />

tower <strong>and</strong> a Gothic chapel, date back<br />

to the 12th century – but subsequent<br />

architectural styles include baroque,<br />

neoclassical <strong>and</strong> neo-gothic. The<br />

monastic library here contains 30,000<br />

volumes, while its immense wine cellar<br />

22 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


is testament to the importance of the<br />

centuries-old viticultural tradition.<br />

Day 7: Tulln to Dürnstein. Today<br />

we continue to follow the Danube<br />

west, weaving through cool forests<br />

as we make our way along the wide,<br />

green valley. We pass through sleepy<br />

villages <strong>and</strong> pretty wine towns, <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

stopping for a bite to eat in a local pub.<br />

Our destination is Dürnstein, a small<br />

town in the renowned Wachau region.<br />

The town boasts an idyllic valley setting,<br />

surrounded by vine-covered slopes.<br />

The Wachau produces a particularly fine<br />

Riesling – why not enjoy a glass while<br />

admiring the stunning surroundings?<br />

26 miles (42km).<br />

Day 8: Dürnstein. The romantic<br />

town of Dürnstein has a long <strong>and</strong><br />

fascinating history, dating back to<br />

1192, when Duke Leopold V held<br />

Richard I Lionheart captive in Dürnstein<br />

Castle after a dispute during the Third<br />

Crusade. The castle was destroyed<br />

in 1645 but its ruins can still be seen<br />

today. We also recommend a ride to<br />

nearby Krems, where the oldest grave<br />

ever found in Austria was discovered<br />

<strong>and</strong> is believed to be over 27,000<br />

years old. This relatively small town of<br />

around 23,000 was once a serious rival<br />

to Vienna during the 11th <strong>and</strong> 12th<br />

centuries. Today’s visitors are attracted<br />

by the town’s elegant architecture of<br />

town houses <strong>and</strong> courtyards with a<br />

southern Italian feel. Must-see buildings<br />

here include the Piaristenkirche, the<br />

Renaissance town hall <strong>and</strong> vast 13th<br />

century Gozzoburg palace.<br />

Day 9: Dürnstein to Melk. This<br />

stretch of our journey through the<br />

Wachau is along the most stunning part<br />

of the Danube cycle path. From castles<br />

<strong>per</strong>ched on hills to swans nesting along<br />

the riverbank <strong>and</strong> past small forests,<br />

farm fields, sprawling vineyards <strong>and</strong><br />

charming little towns, the serene beauty<br />

of the Danube reflects in the summer<br />

sun. Be sure to bring your camera,<br />

as the vistas on this ride are simply<br />

breathtaking. 21 miles (34km).<br />

Day 10: Melk. Towering above the<br />

left bank of the Danube, Melk offers an<br />

impressive range of architecture within<br />

its atmospheric streets. The town is<br />

best known for Stift Melk, the imposing<br />

baroque Benedictine monastery which<br />

st<strong>and</strong>s proudly over the town. Founded<br />

in 1089, this truly magnificent building<br />

with its numerous frescos continues to<br />

inspire devotion <strong>from</strong> all who visit. Our<br />

final recommendation for a nearby ride<br />

is to the wonderful church of Maria<br />

Taferl which has traditionally attracted<br />

angelic <strong>and</strong> pilgrimage processions.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Melk to Vienna Airport by<br />

train or minibus <strong>and</strong>, look forward to<br />

welcoming you back again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

20ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

22ºC 24ºC 24ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

21ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £869 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

August 16, 18 £1149<br />

August 28, 30 £1099<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

August 18 £899<br />

August 30 £869<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Gatwick Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Vienna.<br />

• Return transfer between Vienna Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Vienna, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 23<br />

Vienna


The Enns Valley <strong>and</strong> the Austrian Lakes<br />

The hills are certainly alive in ‘The Sound of Music’ country. As<br />

you freewheel through the beautiful Enns Valley, the lush green<br />

meadows grazed by cattle give way to golden cornfields <strong>and</strong><br />

dense pine forests clinging to the lower slopes of towering peaks.<br />

This enchanting ride through spectacular scenery features several<br />

of Austria’s most picturesque lakes, <strong>per</strong>fect for making a summer<br />

splash.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Salzburg<br />

Mondsee<br />

Sankt<br />

Wolfgang<br />

Bad Mitterndorf<br />

Schladming<br />

Altaussee<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Schladming – a popular summer cycling <strong>and</strong> walking resort with an<br />

attractive pedestrianised centre<br />

• The Enns Valley – the River Enns flows through breathtaking<br />

scenery, linking a chain of picturesque towns <strong>and</strong> villages<br />

• The Salzkammergut – Austria’s magnificent lake district<br />

• St Wolfgang – pretty lakeside resort with many ancient buildings<br />

• St Gilgen – birthplace to Mozart’s mother <strong>and</strong> an inspiration to the<br />

great composer<br />

• Mondsee – the heart of ‘Sound of Music’ country <strong>and</strong> the location for<br />

the film’s wedding scene<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Salzburg airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base hotel<br />

in Schladming.<br />

Day 2: Schladming. After breakfast we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycles<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. The day<br />

is then yours to explore Schladming <strong>and</strong><br />

the surrounding area. The small town lies<br />

in the beautiful Enns Valley, which at this<br />

point carves a path west to east between<br />

the Dachstein Tauern to the north <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Schladminger Tauern to the south. Both<br />

these magnificent ranges have peaks reaching<br />

close to 3000m that prove a magnet for<br />

walkers in the summer. We suggest a<br />

leisurely excursion up the Enns Valley to the<br />

interesting <strong>and</strong> historic town of Radstadt. Built<br />

at the end of the 13th century by Salzburg<br />

bishops, Radstadt is still enclosed by its<br />

original fortified walls. Schladming itself is a<br />

renowned ski resort <strong>and</strong> a popular summer<br />

destination for cyclists <strong>and</strong> walkers. The<br />

town has an attractive pedestrianised centre,<br />

with an array of interesting shops, cafés <strong>and</strong><br />

restaurants.<br />

Day 3: Schladming to Bad<br />

Mitterndorf. The Enns Valley cycle route<br />

passes through Schladming leading you<br />

downstream past the picturesque villages of<br />

Haus <strong>and</strong> Gröbming. The valley is wide <strong>and</strong><br />

lush, supporting a variety of farming. Rich<br />

green meadows grazed by cattle give way to<br />

fields of golden corn, with frequent incursions<br />

of dense pine forests sweeping into the valley<br />

<strong>from</strong> the lower slopes of the towering peaks<br />

to the north <strong>and</strong> south. Towards the end of<br />

the day a gap appears in the mountains <strong>and</strong><br />

the route follows a lake shore track to Bad<br />

Mitterndorf. 26 miles (42km).<br />

Day 4: Bad Mitterndorf. A charming<br />

village, Bad Mitterndorf is a little known<br />

jewel on the edge of the Salzkammergut.<br />

In common with many of the ski resorts in<br />

Austria they particularly encourage cyclists to<br />

visit during the summer months. The local<br />

tourist office produce a brochure featuring a<br />

selection of circular rides based around the<br />

village <strong>and</strong> we detail one of these routes in<br />

our information pack.<br />

Day 5: Bad Mitterndorf to Altaussee.<br />

An enchanting ride through spectacular<br />

scenery is punctuated by a visit to Bad<br />

Aussee, a medieval salt processing town<br />

that reinvented itself as a chic spa resort in<br />

the early 1800s. The town is the capital of<br />

the Styrian Salzkammergut <strong>and</strong> lies at the<br />

confluence of two branches of the River<br />

Traun. The old town square contains a<br />

number of historic buildings, with impressive<br />

examples of Late Gothic <strong>and</strong> Renaissance<br />

architecture. The route continues to the<br />

picturesque lakeside resort, Altaussee.<br />

18 miles (29km).<br />

Day 6: Altaussee. The village is spread<br />

along the western shore of the Altausseer<br />

See, a crystal clear lake nestling beneath the<br />

towering Totes Gebirge. There are excellent<br />

walking possibilities in the surrounding area<br />

or, you may take a tour around the nearby<br />

salt mines, which were used as a place of<br />

safety for important works of art during<br />

24 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


the Second World War. For a cycling<br />

excursion we recommend a trip to<br />

the Grundlsee, whose emerald green<br />

waters shimmer in the shadow of the<br />

pale coloured Totes Gebirge. This lake,<br />

with its peaceful charm, has long been a<br />

draw for prominent Austrians <strong>and</strong> once<br />

counted Sigmund Freud amongst its<br />

frequent visitors.<br />

Day 7: Altaussee to St. Wolfgang.<br />

This morning’s ride follows a cycle route<br />

through spectacular alpine scenery<br />

along a track closed to all but farm <strong>and</strong><br />

forestry traffic. En route you will discover<br />

a wonderful Gasthof, the Blaa Alm, <strong>and</strong><br />

though you will probably reach it a little<br />

early for lunch, its unspoilt location begs<br />

you to pause a while <strong>and</strong> sample its<br />

excellent fare. You will emerge <strong>from</strong> this<br />

tranquil interlude at the bustling spa town,<br />

Bad Ischl <strong>and</strong> then continue on quiet<br />

country lanes to St. Wolfgang. 23 miles<br />

(37km).<br />

Day 8: St. Wolfgang. The town, as<br />

you might imagine, draws its name <strong>from</strong><br />

St. Wolfgang, who erected a chapel here<br />

in the 10th century. The chapel became<br />

a place of pilgrimage in the 12th century<br />

<strong>and</strong> the town steadily grew around it.<br />

Situated on the north shore of the lake of<br />

the same name, St. Wolfgang has a truly<br />

glorious location. There are a multitude of<br />

things to do, including a steam train ride<br />

to the summit of the Schafberg, affording<br />

panoramic views of twelve lakes; a cycle<br />

excursion to St. Gilgen, the birthplace of<br />

Mozart’s mother; <strong>and</strong> a relaxing boat trip<br />

on the lake.<br />

Day 9: St. Wolfgang to Mondsee.<br />

The tour continues, heading north<br />

on a cycle track through a gap in the<br />

mountains. After passing the sparkling<br />

Schwarzensee, the route emerges at the<br />

Attersee, the Salzkammergut’s largest<br />

lake. A narrow lane hugs its southern<br />

shore before following the Seeache<br />

gently upstream to the south-eastern tip<br />

of Mondsee. The village of Mondsee is<br />

at the far northern end of this beautiful<br />

crescent shaped lake. 23 miles (37km).<br />

Day 10: Mondsee. The village was<br />

founded in the middle of the 8th century<br />

when a Benedictine monastery was<br />

established by Odilio, a Bavarian count.<br />

There are many well preserved buildings<br />

in the old village centre <strong>and</strong>, the parish<br />

church, made famous as the location<br />

for the wedding scene in ‘The Sound of<br />

Music’, is considered a particularly fine<br />

example of Gothic architecture. We<br />

suggest a relaxing cycle excursion to the<br />

nearby Irssee. The lake is preserved as<br />

a nature conservation area, however, it<br />

is also renowned for its bathing, as the<br />

water reaches a remarkable 27°C during<br />

the summer months.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Mondsee to Salzburg airport<br />

by train or minibus, <strong>and</strong> look forward to<br />

welcoming you back again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

19ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

22ºC 24ºC 24ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 21, 23 £1099<br />

July 3, 5 £1099<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

Salzburg<br />

20ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £869 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 23 £869<br />

July 5 £869<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Gatwick or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Salzburg.<br />

• Return transfer between Salzburg Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong><br />

independent travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Munich or Salzburg, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 25


Essence of Slovenia<br />

This small, yet incredibly diverse country in the heart of Europe<br />

is truly an undiscovered gem. Explore the spectacular Alpine<br />

scenery of the northwest, me<strong>and</strong>ering through quiet country<br />

lanes <strong>and</strong> charming villages. Travel through breathtaking pine<br />

forests, vineyards <strong>and</strong> sunflower fields, with the snow-capped<br />

Julian Alps as a stunning backdrop.<br />

Sample excellent Slovenian wines, feast on delicious local dishes<br />

<strong>and</strong> mingle with friendly <strong>and</strong> welcoming locals. Discover the<br />

delights of Ljubljana, a historic city with a buzzing café scene <strong>and</strong><br />

a picturesque Old Town.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Ribcev ˇ Laz<br />

Bled<br />

Kranj<br />

LJUBLJANA<br />

9 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 6 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Discovering the beautiful Alpine town of Bled, set on the banks of a<br />

tranquil, emerald-green lake<br />

• Relaxing in the lakeside town of Ribcev Laz, set in the shadow of Mount<br />

Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain<br />

• Cycling through awe-inspiring Alpine scenery in one of Europe’s most<br />

unspoilt countries<br />

• Trying top-quality Slovenian wines <strong>and</strong> sampling the two fantastic<br />

national beers, Laško Zlatorog <strong>and</strong> Union<br />

• Soaking up the lively atmosphere in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s enchanting<br />

capital<br />

• Indulging in some delicious Slovenian desserts such as potica (a rolled<br />

cake filled with nuts) <strong>and</strong> sour apple pies<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Ljubljana<br />

Airport. Transfer by minibus, taxi or<br />

train to our base hotel in Bled.<br />

Day 2: Bled. After breakfast we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle,<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. The<br />

day is then yours to explore Bled <strong>and</strong><br />

the surrounding countryside. Set around<br />

an emerald-green lake <strong>and</strong> framed by<br />

soaring, snow-capped mountains, Bled<br />

boasts some of the most amazing Alpine<br />

scenery in Slovenia. Visit the majestic<br />

16th-century castle, <strong>per</strong>ched high on a<br />

cliff, or hire a rowing boat <strong>and</strong> cross the<br />

lake to explore tiny Bled Isl<strong>and</strong>.<br />

Day 3: Bled to Ribcev Laz. You<br />

will be offered a lift in our minibus<br />

to the plateau at Pokljuka, <strong>and</strong> <strong>from</strong><br />

there it’s a relaxing ride down into the<br />

Bohinj Valley, taking in the picturepostcard<br />

views of forested slopes <strong>and</strong><br />

lush meadows. As you travel through<br />

quaint Alpine villages, you can stop for a<br />

traditional Slovenian lunch at a local pub.<br />

20 miles (32km).<br />

Day 4: Ribcev Laz. Ribcev Laz lies<br />

on the eastern shores of beautiful Lake<br />

Bohinj in the Triglav National Park.<br />

Surrounded by pine forests, mountain<br />

meadows <strong>and</strong> imposing peaks, this<br />

unspoilt pocket of Slovenia is ideal for<br />

hiking <strong>and</strong> biking. Take a leisurely walk<br />

around the lake’s <strong>per</strong>imeter, discover<br />

the 15th <strong>and</strong> 16th-century frescoes<br />

inside the medieval Church of St John<br />

the Baptist, then relax with a glass of<br />

Malvazija wine as you soak up views<br />

across the lake to Mount Triglav,<br />

Slovenia’s highest mountain.<br />

Day 5: Ribcev Laz to Kranj. After<br />

cycling a short distance to the village of<br />

Bohinjska Bistrica, you will be offered<br />

a help-out lift to the top of the Jelovica<br />

high plateau, before you head east<br />

towards Kranj. The route takes you<br />

along quiet country lanes, through<br />

shady pine forests, tiny villages <strong>and</strong><br />

rolling green hills, with a jaw-dropping<br />

backdrop of dramatic mountain peaks.<br />

28 miles (45km).<br />

Day 6: Kranj. The historic town of<br />

Kranj sits between two Alpine rivers,<br />

<strong>and</strong> has a charming Old Town lined<br />

with Gothic <strong>and</strong> Renaissance buildings.<br />

Today, we suggest you take a leisurely<br />

ride through the Poljanska Valley to<br />

Škofja Loka, a pretty town surrounded<br />

by rolling green hills <strong>and</strong> watched over<br />

by an imposing 16th-century castle.<br />

Stop for lunch at an authentic gostilna<br />

(tavern) <strong>and</strong> sample some of the<br />

delicious local dishes.<br />

Day 7: Kranj to Ljubljana. Me<strong>and</strong>er<br />

through verdant forests <strong>and</strong> alongside<br />

tranquil rivers as you head through the<br />

Sava Valley towards the cobbled streets<br />

26 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


<strong>and</strong> historic buildings of Slovenia’s<br />

vibrant capital city, Ljubljana. Your route<br />

will pass through the beautiful Zarica<br />

Canyon, an area of spectacular natural<br />

beauty. 22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 8: Ljubljana. Today, we<br />

recommend you do as the locals do <strong>and</strong><br />

use your bike to explore this buzzing,<br />

cycle-friendly city. Discover the cobbled<br />

streets, Baroque buildings <strong>and</strong> quirky<br />

boutiques of the Old Town, cross the<br />

beautiful Triple Bridge, then head up<br />

to the magnificent castle for views over<br />

the city’s terracotta rooftops. As the<br />

sun sets, take advantage of Ljubljana’s<br />

alfresco café culture <strong>and</strong> enjoy a drink<br />

on the tree-lined banks of the Ljubljanica<br />

River.<br />

You may also wish to extend your<br />

stay in Ljubljana <strong>and</strong> take an excursion<br />

to the Karst area. From here, you<br />

can visit Postojna Cave, a labyrinth<br />

of underground tunnels <strong>and</strong> grottoes<br />

covered in stalactites <strong>and</strong> stalagmites,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Predjama grad, a dramatic<br />

16th-century castle built into a cave<br />

mouth.<br />

Day 9: Today we say<br />

“Nasvidenje”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Ljubljana to Ljubljana Airport<br />

by train or minibus, <strong>and</strong> look forward to<br />

welcoming you back again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

20ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

23ºC 25ºC 24ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

21ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £799 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

9 Day Tour<br />

(8 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 19, 21, 29 £979<br />

July 1, 9, 11 £979<br />

July 19, 21, 29, 31 £1009<br />

August 8, 10, 18, 20 £1009<br />

August 28, 30 £979<br />

6 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(5 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 21 £799<br />

July 1, 11 £799<br />

July 21, 31 £829<br />

August 10, 20 £829<br />

August 30 £799<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Gatwick or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £15 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Ljubljana.<br />

• Return transfer between Ljubljana Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong><br />

independent travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

extra time in Ljubljana, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 27<br />

Ljubljana


Gruyères <strong>and</strong> Lake Genèva<br />

With its dramatic mountainous backdrop <strong>and</strong> stunningly lush<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scapes, you’ll find the charm of this unspoilt region hard to<br />

resist.<br />

From well-preserved medieval villages to sophisticated resorts<br />

on the Swiss Riviera, this tour offers a thrilling journey through<br />

the heart of the Swiss countryside encompassing fairytale<br />

castles, spa resorts, historic cathedrals <strong>and</strong> ancient city<br />

fortifications – inters<strong>per</strong>sed en route by refreshing swims in<br />

crystal-clear lakes <strong>and</strong> traditional alpine food at cosy inns.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Yverdon<br />

les Bains<br />

Lutry<br />

Lake Genèva<br />

Murten<br />

Fribourg<br />

Gruyères<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Discover the immense city fortifications of Fribourg, Switzerl<strong>and</strong>’s most<br />

important medieval military architecture<br />

• Explore the spectacular alpine scenery of lakes, valleys <strong>and</strong> forests<br />

• Enjoy refreshing outdoor swimming at <strong>per</strong>fect bathing spots like Lake<br />

Murten<br />

• Marvel at panoramic mountain views – <strong>from</strong> the snow crowned<br />

peaks of the Swiss Alps to the picturesque Jura Mountains<br />

• Take to the waters at Yverdon les Bains, famous for its thermal springs<br />

The spa waters here are renowned for their healing qualities<br />

• Ex<strong>per</strong>ience all the style of the Swiss Riviera in Lutry, a fashionable resort<br />

of chic waterfront bars, cafés <strong>and</strong> bistros<br />

Day 1: Arrival. Transfer <strong>from</strong> Genèva<br />

airport to our base hotel in Gruyères.<br />

Day 2: Gruyères. After breakfast, we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycles<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. The<br />

day is then yours to explore Gruyères,<br />

a well-preserved medieval village with<br />

an 11th century fairytale castle <strong>and</strong><br />

dazzling alpine backdrop. Why not relax<br />

by dipping into an authentic fondue<br />

here? Alternatively, you could explore<br />

Lake Gruyère <strong>and</strong> me<strong>and</strong>er through its<br />

idyllic pastures to a soundtrack of ringing<br />

cow bells (after all, this is the home of<br />

the famously nutty Gruyère cheese);<br />

or even take the train to Gstaad, one<br />

of Switzerl<strong>and</strong>’s smartest resorts, <strong>and</strong><br />

follow the National Cycle Route back<br />

to Gruyère through dramatic valley<br />

scenery.<br />

Day 3: Gruyères to Fribourg.<br />

Following the tranquil shoreline of Lake<br />

Gruyère, we ride along quiet lanes <strong>and</strong><br />

forest tracks before crossing picturesque<br />

farml<strong>and</strong> with stunning views of snowcapped<br />

peaks. Finally, we arrive at<br />

Fribourg, an atmospheric medieval<br />

centre <strong>per</strong>ched upon a rocky spur<br />

overlooking the River Sarine. 24 miles<br />

(38km).<br />

Day 4: Fribourg. Explore the steep<br />

cobbled streets of Fribourg. Lined with<br />

ancient buildings, the many attractions<br />

here include the 13th century St Nicolas<br />

Cathedral, covered wooden bridges<br />

decked with brightly-coloured flowers,<br />

<strong>and</strong> the city fortifications with a mile <strong>and</strong><br />

a half of ramparts, 14 towers <strong>and</strong> a huge<br />

bulwark (Switzerl<strong>and</strong>’s most important<br />

medieval military architecture). We also<br />

recommend a cycle excursion into the<br />

breathtakingly beautiful surrounding<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape of lakes, valleys <strong>and</strong> shady<br />

forests dwarfed by towering mountains.<br />

Day 5: Fribourg to Murten. Soak<br />

up the spectacular alpine scenery as<br />

we trundle downhill past lakes, valleys<br />

<strong>and</strong> forests stopping en route at friendly<br />

Gasthofs in delightfully traditional villages.<br />

20 miles (32km).<br />

Day 6: Murten. On the edge of the<br />

Great Marsh, Murten is one of the best<br />

preserved Swiss medieval towns, <strong>and</strong><br />

still encircled by its 15th century walls.<br />

From the castle to the historic arcaded<br />

high street, this is a charming place to<br />

stroll around. You could also opt to<br />

make a splash at Lake Murten which<br />

is ideal for swimming – or cycle across<br />

the causeway at nearby Lake Biel to<br />

St Peters Isl<strong>and</strong>, where an excellent<br />

restaurant will reward you with fabulous<br />

views.<br />

Day 7: Murten to Yverdon les<br />

Bains. Today we embark on a truly<br />

epic ride along the shore of Lake<br />

Neuchâtel (the largest lake entirely in<br />

Switzerl<strong>and</strong>) with views across to the<br />

28 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


picturesque peaks of the Swiss Jura<br />

Mountains. Best of all, there will also be<br />

several opportunities for a reviving swim<br />

en route. 27 miles (43km).<br />

Day 8: Yverdon les Bains. Centred<br />

between the Jura Mountains, the<br />

Orbe Plains, the Broye Hills <strong>and</strong> Lake<br />

Neuchâtel, Yverdon les Bains is famous<br />

for its thermal springs. The spa waters<br />

here are renowned for their healing<br />

powers. The imposing 13th century<br />

castle features four round towers. Our<br />

recommended cycle excursion to the<br />

shores of Lake Neuchâtel can also be<br />

combined with a worthwhile boat trip.<br />

Day 9: Yverdon les Bains to Lutry.<br />

Taking the national cycle route that<br />

links Yverdon <strong>and</strong> Lake Genèva, we<br />

weave along peaceful lanes <strong>and</strong> forest<br />

tracks through the scenic l<strong>and</strong>scape. As<br />

we reach Lake Genèva, the wonderful<br />

vistas of the Mont Blanc Masif reward<br />

our efforts. 25 miles (40km).<br />

Day 10: Lutry. Unwind in stylish<br />

Lutry – this chic resort of pavement<br />

cafés, atmospheric bistros <strong>and</strong> ancient<br />

buildings is at the heart of the Swiss<br />

Riviera. Other nearby attractions include<br />

the sophisticated city of Lausanne;<br />

<strong>and</strong> Chateau Chillon, an enchanting<br />

medieval castle.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Au<br />

Revoir” <strong>and</strong> transfer you back to<br />

Genèva airport by train or minibus, <strong>and</strong><br />

look forward to welcoming you back<br />

again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

19ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

23ºC 25ºC 24ºC<br />

9<br />

hours<br />

10<br />

hours<br />

9<br />

hours<br />

20ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

July 21, 23 £1199<br />

August 2, 4 £1199<br />

Genèva<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £949 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

July 23 £949<br />

August 4 £949<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow, Gatwick or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £15 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Genéva.<br />

• Return transfer between Genéva Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Genéva, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Munich<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 29


Appenzellerl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Lake Constance<br />

As the cowbells chime, you’ll ex<strong>per</strong>ience the best of the Swiss<br />

countryside – <strong>from</strong> rugged mountain scenery to lush valleys.<br />

Within eleven days, the highlights of this thrilling ride include<br />

the magnificent Alps, idyllic Lake Constance, the ancient city of<br />

St Gallen <strong>and</strong> even Europe’s most powerful waterfalls – not to<br />

mention the gastronomic delights of the region.<br />

There’s certainly nothing neutral about this Swiss adventure!<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Stein am Rhein<br />

Tufertschwil<br />

Reichenau<br />

Egnach<br />

Appenzell<br />

11 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Appenzellerl<strong>and</strong> – magnificent scenery, charming villages <strong>and</strong><br />

delicious cheese<br />

• Lake Constance – a cyclist’s paradise<br />

• World Heritage sites: St Gallen Cathedral <strong>and</strong> Reichenau Monastery<br />

• Medieval Stein am Rhein – crammed with beautiful half-timbered<br />

buildings<br />

• Rheinfalls – Europe’s most powerful waterfalls<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Zurich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base<br />

hotel in Appenzell.<br />

Day 2: Appenzell. After breakfast, we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. The<br />

day is now yours to explore Appenzell<br />

<strong>and</strong> the surrounding area. This small<br />

town lies among beautiful undulating<br />

meadows with the majestic Alpstein<br />

range providing a spectacular backdrop<br />

to the south. A network of quiet lanes<br />

<strong>and</strong> forest tracks traverse the l<strong>and</strong>scape<br />

– you can pedal in time to the rhythmic<br />

chiming of cowbells! Appenzell is<br />

famous for its unique cheese, a key<br />

ingredient in several local specialities.<br />

Sample this imaginative cuisine at one<br />

of the authentic Gasthofs <strong>and</strong> cafés<br />

around the cobbled market square. The<br />

colourful wooden houses, surrounding<br />

the square, create a magical setting for<br />

an “alfresco feast”.<br />

Day 3: Appenzell to Tufertschwil.<br />

A morning me<strong>and</strong>ering through glorious<br />

Appenzellerl<strong>and</strong> is punctuated by a visit<br />

to Stein, a pretty village overlooking<br />

the Sitter Valley. The fascinating Folk<br />

Museum here illustrates local culture<br />

<strong>and</strong> crafts <strong>and</strong> a cheese factory<br />

demonstrates the art of producing<br />

delicious Appenzeller. The subsequent<br />

route passes close to St Gallen,<br />

eastern Switzerl<strong>and</strong>’s largest city. At St<br />

Gallen’s heart is a magnificent cathedral<br />

<strong>and</strong> monastery, designated a World<br />

Heritage site by UNESCO. The final leg<br />

to Tufertschwil follows an isolated lane<br />

deep inside idyllic alpine country.<br />

26 miles (42km).<br />

Day 4: Tufertschwil. Far off the<br />

beaten track, the tiny hamlet of<br />

Tufertschwil is set in a truly enchanting<br />

location. Deep green pastures are<br />

dotted with ancient Swiss farmhouses<br />

as the cycling lanes wriggle through lush<br />

valleys. The pride of Tufertschwil is the<br />

Hotel Rössli, a <strong>per</strong>fect blend of rustic<br />

charm <strong>and</strong> contemporary comfort.<br />

Day 5: Tufertschwil to Egnach.<br />

Following the Mittell<strong>and</strong> National Cycle<br />

Route, the rolling hills of Up<strong>per</strong> Thurgau<br />

give way to a gentle l<strong>and</strong>scape of apple<br />

<strong>and</strong> pear orchards. A highlight of the day<br />

is Bischofszell, a historic town situated at<br />

the confluence of the Rivers Sitter <strong>and</strong><br />

Thur. 26 miles (42km).<br />

Day 6: Egnach. With a private shorefront<br />

for guests’ exclusive use, Lake<br />

Constance is <strong>just</strong> a stone’s throw <strong>from</strong><br />

your hotel. Cycling around the lake,<br />

your route passes through Egnach <strong>and</strong><br />

leads southeast to Arbon, an attractive<br />

lakeside resort. St Gallen is also within<br />

easy striking distance <strong>and</strong> deserves<br />

further exploration.<br />

Day 7: Egnach to Reichenau.<br />

Cycle paths <strong>and</strong> quiet lanes follow the<br />

30 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Lake Constance shoreline northwest<br />

to Konstanz. The stunning views across<br />

to Germany are matched by those of<br />

the snow-capped Alps. The old town<br />

of Konstanz is a maze of cobbled alleys<br />

<strong>and</strong> <strong>per</strong>fectly preserved ancient buildings<br />

– it certainly dem<strong>and</strong>s a lingering visit.<br />

Having passed into Germany, this<br />

thrilling journey continues along the<br />

shore <strong>and</strong> onto the resort isl<strong>and</strong> of<br />

Reichenau. 24 miles (38km).<br />

Day 8: Reichenau. During the<br />

10th <strong>and</strong> 11th centuries, the isl<strong>and</strong> of<br />

Reichenau was one of Europe’s largest<br />

monastic centres <strong>and</strong> its legacy of fine<br />

churches <strong>and</strong> abbey remains is now<br />

recognised as a World Heritage site.<br />

Meanwhile, the nearby isl<strong>and</strong> of Mainau<br />

is an extraordinary park, created for the<br />

Gr<strong>and</strong> Dukes of Baden, with romantic<br />

woods <strong>and</strong> vivid flower terraces (the<br />

thriving hibiscus, orange trees <strong>and</strong><br />

daturas illustrate the mild climate).<br />

We definitely recommend a cycling<br />

excursion here.<br />

Day 9: Reichenau to Stein am<br />

Rhein. The tour continues along the<br />

German shores of Lake Constance.<br />

Several picturesque local villages boast<br />

splendid half-timbered buildings, while<br />

ferry routes link the villages – allowing<br />

the possibility for exciting shortcuts!<br />

On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning<br />

views of the jagged alpine horizon<br />

across the water. 26 miles (42km).<br />

Day 10: Stein am Rhein. With its<br />

medieval half-timbered buildings <strong>and</strong><br />

16th century houses whose façades are<br />

painted with frescos, Stein am Rhein is<br />

<strong>just</strong>ly renowned as one of Switzerl<strong>and</strong>’s<br />

most beautiful sights. Our suggested<br />

cycle route follows the mighty Rhein<br />

west to Schaffhausen <strong>and</strong> the Rheinfalls.<br />

Schaffhausen was an important trading<br />

hub during the Middle Ages <strong>and</strong> its<br />

cobbled Old Town streets are lined<br />

with Gothic, Renaissance <strong>and</strong> Baroque<br />

buildings. The Rheinfalls inevitably make<br />

a big splash with visitors – in fact, they<br />

are Europe’s most powerful waterfalls.<br />

Day 11: Today, we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

directly to Zurich airport by train or<br />

minibus <strong>and</strong> look forward to welcoming<br />

you back next year!<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

19ºC<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

23ºC 25ºC 24ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

Zurich<br />

7<br />

hours<br />

20ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £949 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

August 15, 17, 27, 29 £1199<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

August 17, 29 £949<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Luton Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £15 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Zurich.<br />

• Return transfer between Zurich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Zurich, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 31


The Czech Republic - Beautiful Bohemia<br />

Southern Bohemia – a location that conjures up romantic images of<br />

rolling verdant hills, deep ancient forests, ruined castles <strong>and</strong> scenic<br />

lakes. Fortunately, this rural idyll in the Czech Republic lives up to<br />

its mythical status. Because it’s so far <strong>from</strong> the tourist crowds, you’ll<br />

discover an unspoilt l<strong>and</strong>scape alongside an authentic Eastern European<br />

culture <strong>and</strong> cuisine. Best of all, the quiet country lanes here are a<br />

cyclist’s dream. And, out of the saddle, the region’s legendary beers are<br />

an intoxicating ex<strong>per</strong>ience, ideally enjoyed within the friendly pubs in<br />

buzzing town squares – at very tempting prices.<br />

In fact, the lower cost of living means you’ll stay exclusively in<br />

charming four-star hotels, especially chosen for their stylish heritage.<br />

Difficulty rating: !!<br />

Hluboká<br />

nad Vltavou<br />

Ceské ˇ<br />

Budéjovice<br />

Frymburk<br />

Ceský ˇ Krumlov<br />

Trebon ˇ ˇ<br />

9 DAY CYCLE TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 6 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Trebon – a <strong>per</strong>fectly preserved walled medieval town surrounded by the<br />

original carp ponds<br />

• Ceské Budéjovice – the main city of South Bohemia, where the<br />

Vltava <strong>and</strong> Malse rivers meet – the renowned home of Czech<br />

Budweiser Beer <strong>and</strong> the Gothic-Renaissance Black Tower<br />

• Cesky Krumlov – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with remarkable<br />

Gothic, Renaissance <strong>and</strong> Baroque architecture<br />

• Cesky Krumlov fortress – one of Central Europe’s largest castles with 40<br />

buildings <strong>and</strong> palaces<br />

• Exploring the epic Sumava National Park with its natural lakes formed<br />

by Ice Age glaciers<br />

• Enjoying the finest traditional Czech cuisine – <strong>from</strong> roast pork<br />

with dumplings to probably the best lager in the world!<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Prague Airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus, taxi or train to our<br />

base hotel in Trebon.<br />

Day 2: Trebon. After breakfast we<br />

<strong>per</strong>sonally equip you with your bicycle<br />

ensuring a <strong>per</strong>fect fit for everyone. The<br />

day is then yours to explore Trebon<br />

<strong>and</strong> the surrounding countryside. The<br />

carp ponds to the north of Trebon<br />

make a good introductory ride.<br />

Day 3: Trebon to Hluboká nad<br />

Vltavou. This is the ideal way to<br />

start our journey – ambling down<br />

quiet country lanes, through a rolling<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape of sleepy villages, pretty lakes,<br />

babbling brooks, shady forests, <strong>and</strong><br />

grassy meadows speckled with grazing<br />

cattle. The scenery here is exquisite.<br />

22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 4: Hluboká nad Vltavou.<br />

A favourite with Bohemian royalty<br />

through the centuries, the atmospheric<br />

small town of Hluboká nad Vltavou<br />

is famous for its Windsor-style Neo-<br />

Gothic chateau – in fact, a royal castle<br />

has existed on this site since the<br />

13th Century. Open to the public,<br />

there’s also an excellent gallery well<br />

worth visiting. Also, a gentle ride into<br />

the beautiful Vltava Valley is highly<br />

recommended.<br />

Day 5: Hluboká nad Vltavou to<br />

Cesky Krumlov. We continue our<br />

tour through the region’s most scenic<br />

rural pastures, riding past golden<br />

cornfields <strong>and</strong> untouched woodl<strong>and</strong>,<br />

<strong>and</strong> through the centre of Ceské<br />

Budéjovice, one of Europe’s largest<br />

town squares. The forested hills then<br />

become more dramatic as we begin<br />

to approach Cesky Krumlov <strong>and</strong> the<br />

fringes of Sumava National Park.<br />

24 miles (38km).<br />

Day 6: Cesky Krumlov. You can’t<br />

help but be seduced by Cesky Krumlov,<br />

one of Bohemia’s most beautiful cities.<br />

Dwarfed by the imposing fortress<br />

which growls down <strong>from</strong> high above<br />

the Vltava, there’s the opportunity to<br />

explore its many intriguing buildings –<br />

including an extraordinary Rococo<br />

ballroom <strong>and</strong> Baroque theatre.<br />

Elsewhere, it’s a real pleasure exploring<br />

the narrow streets of this UNESCO<br />

World Heritage Site with its picturepostcard<br />

architecture. The town is<br />

also surrounded by recommended<br />

cycle routes, so this is a wonderful<br />

opportunity to enjoy the unrivalled<br />

scenery of the northern edges of<br />

Sumava National Park.<br />

Day 7: Cesky Krumlov to<br />

Frymburk. Leaving behind the charm<br />

of Cesky Krumlov, we ride through<br />

some of the Czech Republic’s most<br />

picturesque countryside within the<br />

Sumava National Park, where otters,<br />

<strong>per</strong>egrine falcons <strong>and</strong> red deer are<br />

32 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


among the wildlife. This low mountain<br />

range contains an array of stunning<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scapes – <strong>from</strong> vast natural lakes<br />

formed by Ice Age glaciers to deep<br />

ancient forests <strong>and</strong> hay meadows rich in<br />

wild flowers. 22 miles (35km).<br />

Day 8: Frymburk. Dating back <strong>from</strong><br />

1277, Frymburk is mainly a resort town<br />

frequented by scores of like-minded<br />

tourists each year – you’ll join anglers,<br />

hikers <strong>and</strong> fellow cyclists here, all<br />

enjoying a well-earned pivo (beer) or<br />

two in the local bars. Can’t resist one<br />

last ride? Then why not me<strong>and</strong>er along<br />

the excellent cycle paths alongside Lake<br />

Lipno in the heart of Sumava National<br />

Park – <strong>and</strong> board a ferry across this<br />

magnificent stretch of water.<br />

Day 9: Today we say “Dotací”.<br />

We will transfer you direct <strong>from</strong><br />

Frymburk to Prague Airport by train or<br />

minibus <strong>and</strong>, look forward to welcoming<br />

you back again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

18ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

21ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

9<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

19ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £829 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

9 Day Tour<br />

(8 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

July 16, 18, 26, 28 £1009<br />

Prague<br />

6 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(5 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

July 18, 28 £829<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds,<br />

Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

T<strong>and</strong>em: £7 <strong>per</strong> day. Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong>: £12 <strong>per</strong> day.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Prague.<br />

• Return transfer between Prague Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Use of our modern lightweight bicycles.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Prague, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 33


<strong>Walking</strong> with <strong>Bents</strong><br />

Take to your feet, enjoy the feeling of freedom<br />

<strong>and</strong> ex<strong>per</strong>ience alpine hospitality at its best...<br />

34 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


“We really enjoyed our holiday <strong>and</strong> the excellent combination tion<br />

it offers of good exercise, scenery, food <strong>and</strong> drink. We had<br />

fantastic weather, <strong>and</strong> with our joint love of swimming, we e<br />

managed to swim in all the lakes!! (not <strong>just</strong> the major ones s on<br />

the tour!). Thanks for a wonderful holiday we have come home<br />

refreshed <strong>and</strong> feeling extremely fit <strong>and</strong> healthy – hope to see<br />

you again next year.”<br />

S. <strong>and</strong> P. Rhodes, Northampton.<br />

“A thoroughly enjoyable holiday far less challenging<br />

than even this pair of geriatrics had anticipated.<br />

We enjoyed the magic of every minute.”<br />

R. Lewis, Gloucestershire.<br />

“We enjoyed our<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> walking holiday<br />

enormously. Neither of<br />

us had been to Bavaria<br />

before <strong>and</strong> we were<br />

delighted to discover<br />

such beautiful walking<br />

country.”<br />

P. Stonham, Oxfordshire.<br />

Our walking holidays follow the same style <strong>and</strong> format which works so well for our cycling<br />

tours, offering the very best European walking ex<strong>per</strong>ience. Our winning formula balances<br />

freedom <strong>and</strong> independence with a high level of service <strong>and</strong> support. We have kept the daily<br />

distances <strong>and</strong> the difficulty of the walks to a level that any healthy <strong>per</strong>son can easily manage.<br />

With careful research, we find the best<br />

routes for each day, described in great detail<br />

in a comprehensive information pack. Your<br />

luggage will be carried for you in one of our<br />

minibuses, <strong>and</strong> will be waiting in your hotel<br />

room when you arrive. Your days are then<br />

left free to organise as you choose. The<br />

mountain paths <strong>and</strong> tracks in Bavaria are<br />

extremely well marked, so either use our<br />

suggested routes, or, if you prefer, use the<br />

maps provided to find your own way.<br />

At each of the excellent hotels, you’ll enjoy<br />

alpine hospitality at its best. We have paid<br />

particular attention to their position, ensuring<br />

you are either, always at the heart of the<br />

village or town where you are staying, or, at<br />

a remote location of outst<strong>and</strong>ing beauty. Our<br />

representatives are all fluent German speakers<br />

<strong>and</strong> naturally all have a keen interest in<br />

Germany <strong>and</strong> its culture. As well as overseeing<br />

the smooth running of your holiday, they will<br />

be happy to offer advice <strong>and</strong> impart their local<br />

knowledge.<br />

“We walk a lot, <strong>and</strong> found the area excellent, as one can<br />

follow very easy or quite strenuous routes depending on how<br />

one feels. An extremely relaxing holiday.”<br />

H. Archer, Surrey. ey.<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> walking holidays - available in<br />

two formats<br />

All our tours are now available in two formats.<br />

The ‘Original <strong>Bents</strong> Formula’ of two<br />

night stays at each hotel, moving on alternate<br />

days. And, our ‘One Night Stops’ itinerary,<br />

where you stay two nights in your first<br />

hotel followed by <strong>just</strong> a single night in each<br />

subsequent hotel. Both formats are available<br />

on all departure dates.<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> difficulty rating<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 35<br />

EASY<br />

EASY - MODERATE<br />

MODERATE<br />

MODERATE+


An Amble through the Allgäu<br />

Prepare to fall in love with the Allgäu! A hidden gem tucked<br />

away in Bavaria’s south-west corner, this unspoilt region offers<br />

walkers stunning mountain l<strong>and</strong>scapes <strong>and</strong> Alpine scenery,<br />

dotted with exquisite villages.<br />

Enjoy the warm hospitality as we me<strong>and</strong>er through this picture<strong>per</strong>fect<br />

region. Discover striking fairytale castles, indulge in<br />

some delicious Bavarian cuisine <strong>and</strong> browse stylish shops for<br />

traditional souvenirs, before heading off the beaten track <strong>and</strong><br />

exploring your spectacular surroundings.<br />

Difficulty rating:<br />

Oberstdorf<br />

Pfronten<br />

Bad<br />

Hindelang Schattwald<br />

Hohenschwangau<br />

11 DAY WALKING TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• Neuschwanstein – marvel at this romantic fairytale castle, an iconic<br />

image of Bavaria, surrounded by soaring peaks<br />

• Tannheimer Tal – hike in this award-winning region, enjoying some<br />

of Austria’s most impressive Alpine scenery<br />

• Visit idyllic Bavarian villages, including the charming spa resort of<br />

Bad Hindelang <strong>and</strong> the traditional town of Pfronten, tucked beneath<br />

Aggenstein Mountain<br />

• Oberstdorf – explore fascinating museums, browse the chic shops, or<br />

treat yourself to a mug of Bavarian beer <strong>and</strong> an indulgent cake at one<br />

of the cosy cafés in this lively town, one of Germany’s top ski resorts<br />

• Walk alongside trickling streams through the lush Vils Valley, passing<br />

green, sun-drenched meadows <strong>and</strong> dramatic mountain scenery<br />

• Enjoy the chance to ‘get away <strong>from</strong> it all’ on our secluded routes<br />

through this quiet, unspoilt mountain l<strong>and</strong>scape<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Munich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus, taxi or train to our<br />

base hotel in Hohenschwangau.<br />

Day 2: Hohenschwangau.<br />

Hohenschwangau boasts an enviable<br />

location, surrounded by forested<br />

mountains <strong>and</strong> bordered by the tranquil<br />

Alpsee lake. Nearby you’ll find not one,<br />

but two former royal palaces. Explore<br />

the imposing Schloss Hohenschwangau,<br />

built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria,<br />

before heading into the hills for fantastic<br />

views of Neuschwanstein, the fairytale<br />

castle built by Maximilian’s son, ‘Mad’<br />

King Ludwig. Set among soaring peaks,<br />

this Romanesque castle is one of<br />

Germany’s most striking images.<br />

Day 3: Hohenschwangau to<br />

Pfronten. From Hohenschwangau<br />

we head west, enjoying the peaceful<br />

surroundings as we follow a quiet<br />

path alongside a babbling brook to the<br />

traditional town of Pfronten, nestled in<br />

the Vils Valley. Take in the views as we<br />

stop for a leisurely lunch at a lovely local<br />

Gasthof. 9 miles (14km).<br />

Day 4: Pfronten. Beneath the<br />

towering Aggenstein Mountain, in the<br />

lush Vils Valley, lies the charming town<br />

of Pfronten. Traditional Bavarian houses<br />

line the main street, decorated with<br />

murals <strong>and</strong> window-boxes filled with<br />

colourful summer flowers.<br />

Day 5: Pfronten to Schattwald.<br />

To the southwest of Pfronten, the Vils<br />

Valley narrows, <strong>and</strong> me<strong>and</strong>ers between<br />

picturesque wooded slopes. Our route<br />

follows the valley, before crossing the<br />

border into Austria <strong>and</strong> emerging at the<br />

gorgeous Tyrolean village of Schattwald.<br />

9 miles (14km).<br />

Day 6: Schattwald. From this quiet<br />

Austrian village, spend a day in the<br />

beautiful Tannheimer Tal, twice voted<br />

Austria’s most popular hiking destination.<br />

Explore glorious Alpine meadows <strong>and</strong><br />

towering forested mountains, before<br />

<strong>per</strong>haps stopping for a bite to eat beside<br />

a picture-<strong>per</strong>fect mountain lake.<br />

Day 7: Schattwald to Bad<br />

Hindelang. Take in the dramatic<br />

scenery on a winding descent <strong>from</strong><br />

Schattwald, which leads you to Bad<br />

Hindelang, a charming village which<br />

serves as one of Germany’s major<br />

health resorts. 8 miles (13km).<br />

Day 8: Bad Hindelang. Set in the<br />

nature reserve of the Allgäu High<br />

Alps, this traditional mountain village<br />

is a prominent spa resort, featuring<br />

Germany’s only high mountain sulphur<br />

spring. Amble through the streets,<br />

admiring the traditional Bavarian houses<br />

bedecked with summer blooms, or<br />

explore the sun-drenched mountain<br />

meadows <strong>and</strong> wooded slopes<br />

surrounding the village.<br />

36 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Day 9: Bad Hindelang to<br />

Oberstdorf. From Bad Hindelang we<br />

really get away <strong>from</strong> it all as we follow<br />

the glaciated Iller Valley as it stretches<br />

south. Our route takes us past dramatic<br />

mountains <strong>and</strong> secluded clearings as<br />

we head towards the lively town of<br />

Oberstdorf. 10 miles (16km).<br />

Day 10: Oberstdorf. One of<br />

Germany’s premier ski resorts,<br />

Oberstdorf is <strong>per</strong>fect for walkers during<br />

the summer months, with fantastic<br />

hiking available through the verdant<br />

valleys surrounding the town. There are<br />

endless ways to spend your time here –<br />

treat yourself to a delicious cake in one<br />

of the cosy cafés, sample some Bavarian<br />

beer in a shaded beer garden, browse<br />

the chic shops for traditional souvenirs,<br />

visit the fascinating local museums, or<br />

take the cable car ride to the towering<br />

Nebelhorn Peak for breathtaking views<br />

of the spectacular scenery.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Oberstdorf to Munich<br />

Airport by train or minibus <strong>and</strong> look<br />

forward to welcoming you back again<br />

next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

18ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

21ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

Munich<br />

19ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £769 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 24 £989<br />

July 10, 26 £1029<br />

August 9 £1029<br />

August 25 £989<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 24 £769<br />

July 10, 26 £809<br />

August 9 £809<br />

August 25 £769<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Munich.<br />

• Return transfer between Munich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Munich or Salzburg, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 37<br />

Salzburg


Chiemgau - jewel of the Bavarian Alps<br />

From challenging climbs to relaxing strolls, the Chiemgau Alps offer the<br />

best of Bavaria’s legendary walking country. Just imagine it: traditional<br />

farmhouses dotted throughout the picturesque l<strong>and</strong>scape as the<br />

melodic chime of cowbells <strong>and</strong> soothing gurgle of mountain streams<br />

fills the air.<br />

This is a walker’s paradise, simply begging to be explored. And, after<br />

a thrilling day of following secret paths around wooded slopes, leafy<br />

glades, craggy peaks <strong>and</strong> alpine pastures, choose to reward yourself at<br />

a rustic Gasthof or a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant.<br />

Difficulty rating:<br />

Bad Endorf<br />

Törwang Hohenaschau<br />

Kufstein<br />

Seebruck<br />

Ruhpolding<br />

Oberwössen<br />

Traunstein<br />

Inzell<br />

11 DAY WALKING TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 7 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• The Chiemgau Alps, the secret jewel of the Bavarian Alps – alpine<br />

meadows, wooded slopes <strong>and</strong> rugged peaks<br />

• Schloss Hohenaschau – an ancient hilltop fortress renovated in<br />

Baroque style<br />

• Reit im Winkl – a village steeped in Bavarian tradition<br />

• Ruhpolding – a chic resort brightened by colourful window boxes<br />

• Inzell – a sleepy village with pretty murals, surrounded by wonderful<br />

walking country<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Munich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or train to our base<br />

hotel at Törwang.<br />

Day 2: Törwang. A charmingly<br />

unspoilt Bavarian village, Törwang lies<br />

among gently rolling meadows at the<br />

base of the Chiemgau Alps. A maze<br />

of paths radiates in all directions; some<br />

offer challenging climbs to high peaks,<br />

others invite you for a relaxing stroll.<br />

Traditional farmhouses decorate the<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scape, while the melodic chime of<br />

cowbells fills the air.<br />

Day 3: Törwang to Hohenaschau.<br />

Today’s walk heads east across alpine<br />

pastures, before rounding the lower<br />

slopes of the Hochries Mountain <strong>and</strong><br />

descending to Hohenaschau. Rustic<br />

Gasthofs are dotted along the way,<br />

offering welcome refreshment. 7 miles<br />

(11km).<br />

Day 4: Hohenaschau. An imposing<br />

12th century fortress watches over the<br />

village of Hohenaschau <strong>from</strong> a nearby<br />

hilltop. The Schloss was renovated in<br />

Baroque style in the late 1600s <strong>and</strong><br />

now houses a museum chronicling the<br />

region’s history. The pretty Prien Valley<br />

leads to the village of Aschau, home<br />

to the Michelin 3-star rated Residenz<br />

Heinz Winkler, one of Germany’s finest<br />

restaurants. Those wishing to enjoy a<br />

wonderful gourmet ex<strong>per</strong>ience here<br />

should notify us when booking this<br />

tour as the restaurant is often booked<br />

months in advance.<br />

Day 5: Hohenaschau to<br />

Oberwössen. Keen hill walkers will<br />

enjoy the challenge of two traverses<br />

today. An initial stiff climb to the summit<br />

of the Kampenw<strong>and</strong>, is followed later<br />

in the day by a gentler ascent of the<br />

Steilenberg. Fortunately, for the less<br />

energetic, a conveniently placed cable<br />

car connects Hohenaschau with the<br />

up<strong>per</strong> slopes of the Kampenw<strong>and</strong>.<br />

Whichever way you choose,<br />

breathtaking views await! 9 or 12 miles<br />

(14 or 19km).<br />

Day 6: Oberwössen. This tranquil<br />

hamlet lies <strong>just</strong> off the main tourist<br />

routes <strong>and</strong> offers a taste of Bavarian<br />

hospitality at its best. The region is a<br />

walker’s paradise, with countless paths<br />

begging to be explored. The bustling<br />

<strong>and</strong> exceedingly pretty village, Reit im<br />

Winkl, is <strong>just</strong> a two hour walk away.<br />

The regular Post Bus service also links<br />

Reit im Winkl <strong>and</strong> Oberwössen.<br />

Day 7: Oberwössen to<br />

Ruhpolding. After a gentle ascent to a<br />

low saddle, today’s walk keeps mainly<br />

to the valleys, alternating between leafy<br />

glades <strong>and</strong> sun-drenched clearings. The<br />

soothing gurgle of mountain streams<br />

accompanies us most of the way, as we<br />

pass isolated farming hamlets <strong>and</strong> rustic<br />

alpine retreats. 9 miles (14km).<br />

38 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Day 8: Ruhpolding. An elegant<br />

resort, Ruhpolding still retains its oldworld<br />

Bavarian charm. Traditional<br />

houses line the main street, with<br />

window boxes exploding in a riot of<br />

summer colour. Four small museums<br />

celebrate local heritage, while the<br />

onion-domed parish church is a<br />

baroque masterpiece. The nearby peaks<br />

of Rauschberg <strong>and</strong> Hochfelln afford<br />

spectacular views <strong>and</strong> can be reached<br />

by foot or cable car.<br />

Day 9: Ruhpolding to Inzell. A<br />

myriad of trails crisscross the Zinnkopf<br />

range separating Inzell <strong>from</strong> Ruhpolding.<br />

We suggest one of many possible<br />

routes over the mountain <strong>and</strong> highlight<br />

a dramatic loop to the south via the<br />

Rauschberg summit. 8 miles (13km).<br />

Day 10: Inzell. The village enjoys<br />

a glorious location surrounded by<br />

breathtaking scenery. The Frillensee,<br />

a delightful bathing lake, nestles in the<br />

forested slopes to the east <strong>and</strong> is a<br />

popular excursion. Wonderful murals<br />

decorate the centre of this beautiful<br />

village.<br />

Day 11: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Inzell to Munich airport by<br />

train or minibus <strong>and</strong>, will look forward<br />

to welcoming you back again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

18ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

21ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

9<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

Munich<br />

19ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £769 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

11 Day Tour<br />

(10 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 17 £989<br />

July 3 £989<br />

July 19 £1029<br />

August 2, 18 £1029<br />

7 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(6 Nights, 5 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 17 £769<br />

July 3 £769<br />

July 19 £809<br />

August 2, 18 £809<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Munich.<br />

• Return transfer between Munich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Munich or Salzburg, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 39<br />

Salzburg


<strong>Walking</strong> the Wettersteins<br />

From glaciated valleys to idyllic bathing lakes, waterfalls, narrow<br />

gorges <strong>and</strong> spectacular mountain summits, the Wettersteins offers a<br />

remarkable range of walking opportunities.<br />

A ramble through the spectacular alpine scenery is an exercise in<br />

natural gr<strong>and</strong>eur <strong>and</strong> beauty. Just breathe that pure mountain air…<br />

Difficulty rating:<br />

Garmisch -<br />

Partenkirchen<br />

Grainau<br />

Oberammergau<br />

Telfs<br />

Oberau<br />

Wallgau<br />

Mittenwald<br />

Scharnitz<br />

9 DAY WALKING TOUR<br />

‘One Night Stops’ 6 Day<br />

Highlights will include:<br />

• The Hotel Post Wallgau – an exceptional old building with<br />

fantastic murals<br />

• Mittenwald – a beautiful town famous for violin making<br />

• Garmisch-Partenkirchen – one of Germany’s premier resorts,<br />

combining elegance with rustic charm<br />

• Germany’s highest mountain: The Zugspitze<br />

• Grainau – unspoilt <strong>and</strong> typically Bavarian, this pretty village is<br />

blessed with many old timbered buildings decorated with bursting<br />

window boxes<br />

Day 1: Arrival at Munich airport.<br />

Transfer by minibus or train to our base<br />

hotel at Wallgau.<br />

Day 2: Wallgau. Set in spectacular<br />

alpine scenery, this picturesque village<br />

is a popular holiday destination for<br />

walkers of all levels of fitness. Wallgau<br />

lies in a broad glaciated valley formed<br />

by the River Isar. 2000m peaks rise<br />

up on all sides providing a rich variety<br />

of interesting day walks. Bathing lakes,<br />

waterfalls, narrow gorges <strong>and</strong> mountain<br />

summits are all within reach.<br />

Day 3: Wallgau to Mittenwald.<br />

These two villages are linked by the Isar<br />

Valley. The route me<strong>and</strong>ers through<br />

the foothills with views to the fertile<br />

farml<strong>and</strong> below. Nearing Mittenwald,<br />

the valley narrows at the meeting of<br />

two majestic ranges, the Wetterstein<br />

<strong>and</strong> Karwendel Gebirge. 7 miles<br />

(11km).<br />

Day 4: Mittenwald. Though one of<br />

Bavaria’s premier resorts, Mittenwald<br />

retains a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors<br />

are attracted by the clear mountain air<br />

<strong>and</strong> the extensive range of hill-walking<br />

available in the area. Towering over<br />

Mittenwald to the east is the imposing<br />

Karwendel west summit, whose sheer<br />

wall rises to 2385m. A cable car ride<br />

to the summit provides dizzy views<br />

across the Alps. Other temptations<br />

include the Leutasch Gorge <strong>and</strong> Valley,<br />

a beautiful <strong>and</strong> little explored tributary<br />

of the Isar; two nearby bathing lakes,<br />

the Ferchensee <strong>and</strong> Lautersee; <strong>and</strong> the<br />

excellent violin-making museum.<br />

Day 5: Mittenwald to Garmisch-<br />

Partenkirchen. The route skirts the<br />

lower slopes of the Wettersteingebirge,<br />

alternating between alpine meadows<br />

<strong>and</strong> pine forests with su<strong>per</strong>b views<br />

of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest<br />

mountain. At either end of the day, a<br />

chair lift <strong>and</strong> gondola are available to<br />

shorten the distance <strong>and</strong> even out the<br />

ups <strong>and</strong> downs. 10 miles (16km).<br />

Day 6: Garmisch-Partenkirchen.<br />

An internationally renowned resort,<br />

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is an<br />

amalgamation of two distinct <strong>and</strong><br />

very different towns. Garmisch, chic<br />

<strong>and</strong> cosmopolitan, contrasts with<br />

Partenkirchen’s old world Bavarian<br />

charm. Each is appealing, <strong>and</strong> a day<br />

can easily be absorbed exploring the<br />

museums, shops <strong>and</strong> back streets.<br />

Again, the main summer activity is<br />

walking. Well-marked paths radiate <strong>from</strong><br />

the town, leading to idyllic lakes <strong>and</strong><br />

spectacular gorges lying concealed in the<br />

surrounding mountains. On a clear day,<br />

an excursion to the Zugspitze summit<br />

by mountain railway <strong>and</strong> cable car offers<br />

panoramic views of the Alps.<br />

Day 7: Garmisch-Partenkirchen<br />

to Grainau. Today we offer a choice<br />

40 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


of two routes. One follows the valley,<br />

winding through lush meadows below<br />

the magnificent Wettersteins. The<br />

trail passes the pretty Riessersee, with<br />

views to the Zugspitze reflected in its<br />

crystal waters. The other option leaves<br />

the valley shortly after passing the<br />

Riessersee. Here the Kreuzeck cable<br />

car is available to lift you high into<br />

the mountains. A well marked path<br />

contours around the Waxenstein<br />

Mountain, before descending through<br />

some of the best scenery the Bavarian<br />

Alps has to offer. The route continues<br />

through a narrow gorge to Grainau.<br />

6 or 8 miles (10 or 13km).<br />

Day 8: Grainau. Known as the<br />

Zugspitze village, Grainau is a wonderful<br />

blend of natural gr<strong>and</strong>eur, enhanced<br />

by the legacy of beautiful buildings left<br />

by farmers through the ages. Window<br />

boxes burst with colour against<br />

weathered timber walls, with the sheer<br />

face of the Zugspitze rearing behind.<br />

Nearby are two picturesque lakes: the<br />

Badersee <strong>and</strong> the Eibsee. The former<br />

is emerald green <strong>and</strong> has a statue of a<br />

mermaid hidden in its depths. The latter<br />

nestles high above Grainau <strong>and</strong> makes<br />

an excellent focus for a day out walking.<br />

Grainau is also a stop on the Zugspitze<br />

train <strong>and</strong> offers another opportunity to<br />

enjoy the spectacular views <strong>from</strong> the<br />

top of Germany’s highest mountain.<br />

Day 9: Today we say “Auf<br />

Wiedersehen”. We will transfer you<br />

direct <strong>from</strong> Grainau to Munich airport<br />

by train or minibus, <strong>and</strong> look forward<br />

to look forward to welcoming you back<br />

again next year.<br />

average maximum temp/<br />

average sunshine <strong>per</strong> day<br />

18ºC<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

21ºC 23ºC 23ºC<br />

9<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

8<br />

hours<br />

Munich<br />

19ºC<br />

6<br />

hours<br />

May June July Aug Sep<br />

<strong>from</strong> <strong>just</strong> £719 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

9 Day Tour<br />

(8 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 28 £879<br />

July 14, 28 £909<br />

August 13 £909<br />

August 27 £879<br />

6 Day Tour One Night Stops<br />

(5 Nights, 4 hotels)<br />

Departure dates Prices<br />

June 28 £719<br />

July 14, 28 £749<br />

August 13 £749<br />

August 27 £719<br />

Prices include flights <strong>from</strong> the UK <strong>and</strong> airport transfers.<br />

Prices are <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son based on two people sharing a double room, departing on direct flights <strong>from</strong><br />

Heathrow or Stansted Airport.<br />

Reductions<br />

Triple room: £5 <strong>per</strong> third <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Infants under 2 years: Sharing bed with parents FREE. Additional expenses (eg. Food <strong>and</strong> baby<br />

cots) to be paid direct to hoteliers.<br />

Children under 12 years: £10 off <strong>per</strong> night. Self drive or independent travel: £160 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Supplements<br />

Single room: £12 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son <strong>per</strong> night.<br />

Birmingham dep: £50 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Manchester dep: £65 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Cardiff & Jersey dep: £85 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional<br />

airports in the UK, to cities throughout Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any<br />

airline <strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the best options for you.<br />

Where we are able to obtain flights at a price lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure<br />

prices, we shall be pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the time of booking, the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays will become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation<br />

invoice. The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

No Surcharges Guaranteed! What your holiday price includes<br />

• Return scheduled flight <strong>from</strong> UK to Munich.<br />

• Return transfer between Munich Airport <strong>and</strong> our base hotel (except self-drive <strong>and</strong> independent<br />

travel bookings).<br />

• Number of nights bed <strong>and</strong> breakfast accommodation as specified.<br />

• Transfer of luggage between hotels.<br />

• All train fares as specified in the itinerary.<br />

• All airport <strong>and</strong> local tourist taxes.<br />

• VAT.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

If you wish to add extra nights to your holiday, with <strong>per</strong>haps<br />

a visit to Munich or Salzburg, please call us for help <strong>and</strong> advice.<br />

ATOL protected<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 41<br />

Salzburg


Terms & Conditions<br />

BENTS BICYCLE & WALKING TOURS - BOOKING CONDITIONS<br />

If you wish to alter your holiday<br />

Once we have confirmed your booking, any change you wish to<br />

make to your holiday arrangements must be notified to us in writing<br />

<strong>and</strong> will be carried out subject to availability. For changes notified<br />

more than eight weeks before your departure date, an arrangement<br />

fee of £20 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son will be charged. In addition any amendment fee<br />

or cancellation charge levied by an airline or channel crossing o<strong>per</strong>ator<br />

will be payable by the client. Changes notified within eight weeks of<br />

your departure date will be treated as a cancellation of your original<br />

booking <strong>and</strong> cancellation charges as set out below will be levied.<br />

If you wish to cancel your holiday<br />

If you fail to pay in full 8 weeks prior to departure, we reserve<br />

the right to cancel your booking <strong>and</strong> your deposit, plus the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays, will be forfeited. Should you or<br />

any member of your party be forced to cancel your booking, we<br />

must receive a written notice of cancellation signed by the signatory<br />

of the original booking form. The cancellation will take effect <strong>from</strong><br />

the date that such written notice is received at our offices, <strong>and</strong> the<br />

following cancellation charges will apply. The charges are expressed<br />

as a <strong>per</strong>centage of the total l<strong>and</strong> based holiday price (for flight inclusive<br />

holidays this figure is the total holiday price less the travel element<br />

itemised on our confirmation invoice, for independent travellers this<br />

figure is the total holiday price). The travel element of flight inclusive<br />

holidays is non-refundable.<br />

Cancellation charges<br />

More than 56 days prior to departure - deposit plus the travel<br />

element of flight inclusive holidays.<br />

Between 42 <strong>and</strong> 56 days prior to departure 40%<br />

Between 28 <strong>and</strong> 41 days prior to departure 50%<br />

Between 15 <strong>and</strong> 27 days prior to departure 75%<br />

Between 8 <strong>and</strong> 14 days prior to departure 90%<br />

7 days or less prior to departure 100%<br />

Cancellation by <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong><br />

Very occasionally it may be necessary for us to cancel a specific<br />

departure. We reserve the right to do this for any reason up to eight<br />

weeks prior to the departure date. In these circumstances, you will<br />

be entitled to: a) book any other available holiday <strong>from</strong> this brochure<br />

(where the cost is less, you will be refunded the difference, but where<br />

the cost is more, you will be expected to pay the additional cost); or<br />

b) receive a full refund of all monies paid.<br />

BENTS BICYCLE & WALKING TOURS - TRAVEL DETAILS<br />

We offer scheduled flights to Munich, Frankfurt, Salzburg, Vienna,<br />

Zurich, Genèva, Ljubljana <strong>and</strong> Prague with British Airways, Lufthansa,<br />

KLM, Adria Airways, Austrian, Czech Airlines <strong>and</strong> Swiss <strong>from</strong> up<br />

to 15 UK airports – London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London<br />

Stansted, London City, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle,<br />

Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Cardiff, Bristol <strong>and</strong> Jersey.<br />

Provisional timings for our flights (where a route is available) <strong>from</strong><br />

London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London City, Birmingham <strong>and</strong><br />

Manchester to Munich, Frankfurt, Salzburg, Vienna, Zurich, Genèva,<br />

Ljubljana <strong>and</strong> Prague are as follows:<br />

Departs Arrives<br />

Heathrow 12:45 Munich 15:40<br />

Munich 16:20 Heathrow 17:20<br />

Birmingham 11:20 Munich 14:10<br />

Munich 15:50 Birmingham 16:50<br />

Manchester 11:00 Munich 13:55<br />

Munich 15:40 Manchester 16:45<br />

Heathrow 13:50 Frankfurt 16:35<br />

Frankfurt 17:15 Heathrow 17:50<br />

Birmingham 13:45 Frankfurt 16:20<br />

Frankfurt 17:15 Birmingham 17:45<br />

Manchester 12:40 Frankfurt 15:25<br />

Frankfurt 17:05 Manchester 17:45<br />

Heathrow 14:40 Vienna 18:00<br />

Vienna 19:15 Heathrow 20:35<br />

Gatwick 10:30 Salzburg 13:25<br />

Salzburg 14:15 Gatwick 15:10<br />

Heathrow 12:10 Zurich 14:50<br />

Zurich 15:30 Heathrow 16:15<br />

Birmingham 13:40 Zurich 16:30<br />

Zurich 12:15 Birmingham 13:00<br />

Manchester 13:40 Zurich 16:30<br />

Zurich 12:15 Manchester 13:00<br />

Heathrow 11:40 Genèva 14:20<br />

Genèva 13:50 Heathrow 14:25<br />

Alterations to itinerary<br />

We will use our best endeavours to ensure that none of the<br />

ingredients of your holiday arrangements has to be altered. However,<br />

occasions may arise when we cannot follow our advertised itineraries,<br />

or cannot maintain our advertised schedules. Our itineraries are put<br />

forward as a statement of intention only, not as representations or<br />

undertakings that they will be carried out. If any additional expenses<br />

are incurred through delay, accident or disruptions of planned<br />

itineraries beyond our control, e.g. war, threat of war, riots, civil<br />

strike, terrorist activity, strikes, governmental action, natural disasters,<br />

fire, technical problems of transport, closure of ports or airports,<br />

cancellation or changes of schedule by scheduled airlines, or similar<br />

events beyond our control, such expenses are to be borne by the<br />

clients. In respect of air travel, we reserve the right to change the<br />

airline o<strong>per</strong>ator, the aircraft type <strong>and</strong> the destination airport.<br />

Passports, visas <strong>and</strong> health requirements<br />

A valid passport is required to gain entry to Germany, Austria,<br />

Slovenia, Switzerl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> the Czech Republic. If you need to apply for<br />

a new passport or for its renewal, make such application at least eight<br />

weeks before departure. Non European Union passport holders are<br />

advised to contact their local German, Austrian, Slovenian, Swiss <strong>and</strong><br />

Czech embassies to check their visa requirements.<br />

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to access<br />

state-provided healthcare in all European Economic Area (EEA)<br />

countries <strong>and</strong> Switzerl<strong>and</strong> at a reduced cost or sometimes free of<br />

charge. To apply for a EHIC visit: www.ehic.org.uk. At the time<br />

of publication (November 2011), no vaccinations are required for<br />

holidays taken <strong>from</strong> this brochure.<br />

Travel insurance<br />

We strongly recommend all holidaymakers have a valid comprehensive<br />

travel insurance policy covering the <strong>per</strong>iod <strong>from</strong> the date of booking,<br />

to the return travel date of your holiday.<br />

Complaints<br />

If you have a complaint whilst on holiday, you must report it at the<br />

time to your hotelier <strong>and</strong> to our representative (as appropriate) to<br />

enable it to be put right. If you feel the matter is serious, you should<br />

also notify our UK office by phone or fax. If you have a dispute with<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> which you are unable to resolve, you<br />

may call upon the low-cost AITO Independent Dispute Settlement<br />

Service (details on request). Claims which exceed £1500 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son<br />

or £7500 <strong>per</strong> booking form or claims which apply principally or<br />

exclusively in respect of (or as a consequence of) illness or physical<br />

injury are not admissible for settlement under the service.<br />

Departs Arrives<br />

Heathrow 11:15 Prague 14:15<br />

Prague 19:30 Heathrow 20:30<br />

Stansted 13:15 Ljubljana 16:25<br />

Ljubljana 16:55 Stansted 18.10<br />

Flights <strong>from</strong> London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London City,<br />

Birmingham <strong>and</strong> Manchester to Munich, Frankfurt, Vienna, Prague,<br />

Genèva <strong>and</strong> Zurich are usually direct. Flights <strong>from</strong> London Stansted<br />

to Ljubljana are direct. Flights to Ljubljana <strong>from</strong> regional airports are<br />

usually via Frankfurt, Paris or Amsterdam. Flights to Salzburg are<br />

usually via Frankfurt, Paris or Amsterdam. Flights to Munich, Frankfurt,<br />

Vienna, Prague, Genèva <strong>and</strong> Zurich <strong>from</strong> all other regional airports<br />

are usually via Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham or Manchester <strong>and</strong><br />

connect with the services detailed. Please telephone our offices if you<br />

wish to know the travel itinerary for a departure airport not detailed.<br />

Fly <strong>from</strong> an airport near you<br />

The rapidly evolving airline market in Europe has resulted in a vast<br />

array of flights <strong>from</strong> regional airports in the UK, to cities throughout<br />

Europe. We are very happy to arrange your flights with any airline<br />

<strong>from</strong> any airport in the UK, simply call us <strong>and</strong> we will research the<br />

best options for you. Where we are able to obtain flights at a price<br />

lower than the fare used to calculate our brochure prices, we shall be<br />

pleased to pass the saving on to you.<br />

Transfer times:<br />

Munich Airport to Lenggries 1 hr 20 mins<br />

Munich Airport to Wasserburg 1 hr<br />

Munich Airport to Spitzingsee 1 hr 20 mins<br />

Munich Airport to Bad Bayersoien 1 hr 30 mins<br />

Munich Airport to Hohenschwangau 1 hr 50 mins<br />

Munich Airport to Törwang 1 hr 30 mins<br />

Munich Airport to Wallgau 2 hrs<br />

Stuttgart Airport to Freudenstadt 1 hr 15 mins<br />

Frankfurt Airport to Trier 2 hrs<br />

Salzburg Airport to Schladming 1 hr 10 mins<br />

Vienna Airport to Poysdorf 50 mins<br />

Ljubljana Airport to Bled 30 mins<br />

Genèva Airport to Gruyères 1 hr 20 mins<br />

Zurich Airport to Appenzell 1 hr 15 mins<br />

Prague Airport to Trebon 2 hrs<br />

Agency bookings<br />

All monies paid to an Agent in respect of a <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong><br />

Tour are held by that Agent on behalf of <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong><br />

<strong>Tours</strong>.<br />

Transport<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> act as agents for the following transport<br />

providers: British Airways, Adria Airways, Czech Airlines, Lufthansa,<br />

Swiss, KLM, Brittany Ferries, Hoverspeed <strong>and</strong> Eurotunnel. The types<br />

of aircraft to be used for each of the routes was not known at the<br />

date of publication.<br />

Flight inclusive holidays<br />

As most airlines issue tickets <strong>and</strong> require payment shortly after the<br />

time of booking, the travel element of flight inclusive holidays will<br />

become payable 14 days after the date of our confirmation invoice.<br />

The amount <strong>and</strong> the due date will be itemised on our invoice.<br />

Brochure accuracy<br />

Our brochure goes to press in November 2011. All the information<br />

in it has been compiled with great care <strong>and</strong> is as accurate as we can<br />

make it on the date of publication.<br />

Price guarantee<br />

We guarantee that there will be no surcharges on our holidays for<br />

Summer 2012. Whilst we reserve the right to increase or decrease<br />

brochure prices at any time, once you have booked your holiday<br />

<strong>and</strong> paid the deposit, the price of your holiday as shown on your<br />

booking confirmation is fully guaranteed <strong>and</strong> will not be subject to<br />

any surcharge. Our 2012 prices are based on the following exchange<br />

rates: €1.166 : £1, CZK 29.60 : £1 <strong>and</strong> CHF 1.434 : £1<br />

Consumer protection<br />

The air holidays <strong>and</strong> flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected,<br />

since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the<br />

Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2867. In the<br />

unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not<br />

str<strong>and</strong>ed abroad <strong>and</strong> will arrange to refund any money you have paid<br />

to us for an advance booking. For further information, visit the ATOL<br />

website at www.atol.org.uk.<br />

Payment by credit card<br />

Payment of your invoice by credit card will incur a 2% additional<br />

charge. There is no fee for debit cards.<br />

Self Drive<br />

There is ample safe parking at all our base hotels if you wish to include<br />

one of our tours as part of a driving holiday (please note, there is a<br />

small charge for garage parking at some hotels). We will send you<br />

detailed instructions on how to find your base hotel at least three<br />

weeks before your holiday begins. At the end of your holiday, we will<br />

arrange transport back to your starting point in order to pick up your<br />

car. We are also able to arrange your Channel Crossing with Brittany<br />

Ferries, Hoverspeed or Eurotunnel. Please telephone our offices for<br />

more information if you wish us to make these arrangements for you.<br />

Independent Travel<br />

For the independent traveller, we will send you detailed instructions<br />

on how to find your base hotel using public transport. The final leg<br />

of your journey <strong>from</strong> train station or airport to hotel is most easily<br />

made by taxi. Please budget for the following fares: Lenggries €7,<br />

Wasserburg €28, Spitzingsee €20, Bad Bayersoien €12, Freudenstadt<br />

€7, Trier €7, Schladming €7, Poysdorf €20, Bled €12, Gruyères CHF<br />

20, Appenzell CHF 10, Trebon CZK 100, Hohenschangau €14,<br />

Törwang €18, Wallgau €14.<br />

42 cycling & walking holidays Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information


Booking Form<br />

How to book your <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> Tour<br />

1. Read the <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong> Booking Conditions carefully.<br />

2. Fill in your holiday details on the Booking Form <strong>and</strong> sign it.<br />

3. You may telephone us at this stage to confirm availability of your chosen departure date. We will take down a few details <strong>and</strong> guarantee your places, provided your Booking Form <strong>and</strong><br />

payment reach us within five working days. We accept VISA <strong>and</strong> MASTERCARD, <strong>and</strong> you may fully guarantee your reservation at this stage using your credit card.<br />

4. Send the Booking Form to us with a cheque, or with authorisation for us to debit your credit card, for your deposit of £180 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son, or, if within ten weeks of departure, for the full<br />

payment. Cheques should be made payable to <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong>.<br />

If at any stage you have any queries, please call us on 01568 780800<br />

5. Your booking is accepted by us when we issue <strong>and</strong> send to you a confirmation invoice. This will detail all the holiday arrangements reserved for you. Please check these details carefully<br />

<strong>and</strong> contact us if you notice any discrepancies.<br />

6. Full payment should reach us no later than eight weeks prior to the start of your holiday.<br />

7. Tickets will then be issued to you 2 to 3 weeks prior to your departure.<br />

Passports: please ensure all those named on the Booking Form have a valid passport. If you are not travelling on a European Union passport, please check your visa<br />

requirements.<br />

BOOKING FORM SUMMER 2012<br />

<strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong>, The Blue Cross, Orleton, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 4HN, Engl<strong>and</strong>. Please complete in block capitals<br />

Please reserve ................. places on your Tour to (please state tour name) .............................................................................................................. departing on .......................................<br />

Tour duration ............................days Tour format: ‘Original <strong>Bents</strong> Formula’ � or, ‘One Night Stops’ � (please tick)<br />

SURNAME<br />

(as it appears in your Passport)<br />

Please start with signatory of<br />

booking form <strong>and</strong> bracket<br />

together people intending<br />

to share rooms<br />

1.<br />

2.<br />

3.<br />

4.<br />

5<br />

6.<br />

FIRST NAME<br />

(as it appears in your Passport)<br />

TITLE<br />

(Mr/Mrs/Miss/<br />

other)<br />

ROOM TYPE<br />

(Single/double/<br />

twin/triple)<br />

DATE OF<br />

BIRTH<br />

*<strong>Bicycle</strong> equipment options – please indicate: Trekking <strong>Bicycle</strong> (TREK), Child <strong>Bicycle</strong> (CB), T<strong>and</strong>em (TA), Electric <strong>Bicycle</strong> (EB), Trailer <strong>Bicycle</strong> (TRAIL), Child Seat (CS).<br />

PLEASE FIND ENCLOSED MY PAYMENT:<br />

DEPOSIT: For bookings outside 10 weeks before departure,<br />

................. deposits at £180 <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son £ . . . . . . . .<br />

or<br />

FULL PAYMENT: For bookings within10 weeks of departure,<br />

..................... at £ ......................... <strong>per</strong> <strong>per</strong>son. £ . . . . . . . .<br />

Cheques payable to<br />

BENTS BICYCLE & WALKING TOURS.<br />

I wish to pay by Visa/MasterCard/Switch/Maestro;<br />

please charge to my account. My card number is:<br />

Expiry Date Start Date<br />

(if it appears<br />

Issue No. on your card) CVV No.<br />

(if it appears<br />

on your card)<br />

(last 3 digits on<br />

signature strip<br />

of your card)<br />

Signed ............................................................Name (on card) ..........................................................<br />

N.B. Don’t worry about cutting up your brochure; we will send you a new one with your booking confirmation.<br />

We would like to thank the following for their assistance in producing this brochure: Photographs: Ethel Davies, Huber, Storto, CIVA/Moya/Zvardon/Hamm, the following Tourist Offices: German National,<br />

Austrian National, Czech National, Slovenian National, Swiss National, Bavarian, Salzburgerl<strong>and</strong>, Berchtesgaden, Garmisch-Partenkirchen <strong>and</strong> München-Oberbayern.<br />

Special thanks to our 2011 Photo Competition entrants for allowing us to reproduce their images:<br />

P. Wilson (p2, p5 & p7); G. Fosh (p3, p7 & p16); T. Lees (p6 & p9); H. Powers (p7 & p14); T. Simon (p7 & p33); I. Moore (p10); R. Dietz (p35); S. McIvor (Back cover).<br />

Stephen Bent, <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong>, The Blue Cross, Orleton, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 4HN, Engl<strong>and</strong>.<br />

email: info@bentstours.com tel: 01568 780800 fax: 01568 780801 www.bentstours.com<br />

DETAILS FOR BIKES<br />

Height Tick if Please<br />

Ladies frame Indicate<br />

required bicycle<br />

required*<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

�<br />

Indicate self-drive, independent travel or preferred<br />

departure airport (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, London City,<br />

Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh, Glasgow,<br />

Newcastle, Aberdeen, Belfast, Bristol, Cardiff or Jersey):<br />

.......................................................................................................................................<br />

On behalf of all the above named <strong>per</strong>sons, I have read,<br />

underst<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> agree to <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong><br />

Booking Conditions. I am over 18 years of age.<br />

Signed: ................................................................. Date: ..........................................<br />

Print Name: ...............................................................................................................<br />

Address: .....................................................................................................................<br />

.......................................................................................................................................<br />

................................................................. Postcode: .................................................<br />

Telephone (Day): ....................................................................................................<br />

(Evening): ..................................................(Mobile): .............................................<br />

Email: ..........................................................................................................................<br />

All correspondence will<br />

be sent to the signatory.<br />

Bookings 01568 780800 or visit www.bentstours.com for more information cycling & walking holidays 43


Stephen Bent, <strong>Bents</strong> <strong>Bicycle</strong> & <strong>Walking</strong> <strong>Tours</strong>,<br />

The Blue Cross, Orleton, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 4HN, Engl<strong>and</strong>.<br />

email: info@bentstours.com tel: 01568 780800 fax: 01568 780801<br />

www.bentstours.com

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