Overview

Welcome to Solvang, California! One of the most beautiful and challenging places to ride a bike. After you check into Hotel Corque, meet your Trek Travel guides who will fit you to your Trek bike and talk about the daily schedule and ride options. Today is a great day to get your legs moving around Ballard Canyon, where every twist and turn reveals a new scenic delight. Take a charming break in Los Olivos, where quaint cafes and world-class wineries await to refresh and rejuvenate your first day on the bike. Experience the perfect blend of varied terrain and serene, quiet roads in Santa Ynez, offering an unforgettable ride through nature's beauty. Journey back to Solvang to check into your hotel room and relax until you join the group for a quick 10 minute shuttle to Buellton for dinner.

Overview

Today you’ll discover one of the classic byways out of Solvang through Foxen Canyon, known as the Wine Trail. This famous stretch of road will wind you from Los Olivos to Santa Maria and is home to some of the most accomplished winemakers in California. With great views of Figueroa Mountain to the east, you’ll enjoy a rolling ride through the famous vineyards of the valley, passing numerous ranches and farm fields. Avid riders who would like a little more elevation can choose to ride out and back to Los Alamos. Tonight, dinner will be on your own to continue exploring the charming town of Solvang.

Overview

It’s a truly California-style ride today, with a classic route due west out of the Santa Ynez Valley and down the Santa Rosa Wine Road through vineyards, rolling hills, and west coast ranch scenery. Pedal through Lompoc's quiet back roads, rolling hills, and beautiful views of the surrounding hills and coastline. After a sustained climb up and over the coastal ridge line, we’ll stop for lunch at the iconic Jalama Beach oceanfront to recharge. Jalama Beach Store & Grill has served campers, surfers and visitors for over 40 years. The “Jalama Burger” has become known around the world as one of Southern California’s hidden treasures. This area is also particularly popular with local wildlife, including seals and sea lions, which can often be seen lounging on the beach or swimming in the nearby waters. With fuel in our bellies, we'll head back to Solvang with our fingers crossed for a California tailwind. Tonight, you'll enjoy a group dinner and bid farewell to those leaving the group today.

Overview

After a leisurely morning choose from one of our self-guided routes. You can choose the Santa Ynez Loop which crosses the Santa Ynez River that loops around central California's horse country offering picture-perfect pastoral fields and green meadows that meet the horizon, or ask our guides for their favorite route suggestions. There will be new guests joining you today, and others departing. You have the opportunity to discover a new gem, tackle a ride you experienced in the days prior, or discover the side streets and windmills of Solvang. Tonight, you and your fellow riders will get together again with the chance to meet your group’s latest arrivals and share stories with old and new friends at one of Solvang's favorite bistros.

Overview

The Santa Maria Valley offers a true cycling paradise for endurance enthusiasts. With routes that will test your limits, you'll experience the beauty and challenging terrain of this region. Take on Drum Canyon's steep and winding roads, push yourself up the challenging grades of Cat Canyon, and enjoy the scenic views of Tepusquet Road. Cycling in the Santa Maria Valley is not just about the physical challenge, but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region. As you ride, you'll discover the valley's rich agricultural heritage, pass by world-renowned wineries, and take in the stunning natural beauty of California's Central Coast.

Overview

After a short 30-minute morning shuttle, you'll be greeted with spectacular views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean. This day is perfect for mountain goats who love a sustained climb. Our Camino Cielo route offers a great warm-up before beginning nine miles (14 km) of uninterrupted climbing on newly paved roads to some of the valley's grandest vistas. When you finish today's ride, choose to recover poolside at the hotel, feeling proud and accomplished. Tonight, we'll meet for dinner at an inviting Italian eatery, reflect on our accomplishments, and exchange contact information with our newfound friends. It's truly been a wonderful week.

Overview

It’s time to say farewell to Solvang with a final ride of your choosing. Today is a great day to tackle the 2009 Amgen Tour of California time-trial course, pedaling along 15 miles (24 km) where professional Levi Leipheimer dominated three years in a row. You can then choose to add on a short, yet beautiful climb up Alisal Road which takes you from downtown Solvang, the heart of "Little Denmark," and back in time through the old Nojoqui Rancho that survives today in the Alisal Ranch. Though you are never really far from "civilization", the dense sycamores overarching the road give a far-distant feel, and include just enough of a climb to cool down a big week of training. Whichever you choose, it’s a great way to cap a week of big miles and even bigger smiles.