Overview

Welcome to the cultural capital of Wisconsin! Madison is in a class by itself as it is home to the University of Wisconsin and the State Capitol, as well as being considered a cycling capital of the United States. Your host will meet you at the luxurious, Trek-owned Mansion Hill Inn for a bike fit and trip overview at 11:00 AM. You'll then head off cycling the Capital City State Trail along Lake Monona (adjacent to Mendota) as you head towards the city of Fitchburg. Take your time, enjoy the ride, and choose to grab a bite or drink at Great Dane Pub and Brewing Co. if the mood strikes. When you’re ready, you’ll return to downtown Madison through the University of Wisconsin Madison’s Arboretum, rich in greenery. (In the spring enjoy the Arboretum's stunning cherry blossoms!) Celebrate your first evening in Madison by selecting from our long list of excellent farm-to-table, locally sourced restaurant menus in town.

Overview

Rise this morning to a delicious Mansion Hill Inn breakfast. This Victorian-inspired 10-room mansion was among the first homes in the city, and served as a primary residence of some of the city’s most notable citizens. Once you've fueled up, hop on your bike and head out to the charming town of Belleville. Today’s ride follows mostly flat, smooth roads with mild uphill climbs—just enough to get your heart pumping. Cruise along the rolling, rural roads that also serve as the route for Ironman Wisconsin, as you experience quintessential Midwest scenery. On your way back towards Madison, stop in the artist’s enclave of Paoli, a popular meeting point for cyclists. Here you can grab a coffee and a snack from one of the eclectic cafes and visit the art galleries and antiques shops. Avid riders can continue on to the iconic, small Swiss town of New Glarus, with its chalets and European charm and the world-famous New Glarus Brewery, home to the one-and-only Spotted Cow farmhouse ale.

Overview

Enjoy another world-famous breakfast at the Mansion Hill Inn, but don’t delay too much as there’s plenty of adventure ahead! Start your morning cycling along the shore of Lake Mendota in preparation of a rolling ride through green pastures and verdant farmland. Enjoy the quiet country roads and plenty of ups and downs as you soak in this idyllic scenery at your own pace. This evening continue to experience the true taste of the Badger state and pop into Fromagination, a hip Capitol Square cheesemonger where you can find many of the Midwest’s most heralded cheeses. Or, head to The Old Fashioned, a Wisconsin-themed restaurant offering elevated takes on the state’s regional offerings in a retro-style tavern. Try the cheese curds, double-brat burger to cap off your last night with a delicious twist on a local classic.

Overview

There's no better way to spend your last morning in Madison than with another spin along the Capital City State Trail. This short morning ride follows city bike trails out along Lake Monona. Following your ride, enjoy a satisfying Mansion Hill breakfast, pack your bags, and head to the airport for your next adventure or for your journey home.