European cycling trips for 2010

Spring is on its way and if you feel like getting out in the open air on two wheels, European activity holidays’ specialist UTracks is launching the following self-guided cycling trips in the forthcoming weeks.
Tuscany Cycle Explorer (8 days)
Launches: 1 April 2010
A trip for those who want a more challenging offroad option to experience the magic of Tuscany's famous countryside. Every day on this trip brings with it a diversity of sites including ancient monasteries, rolling vineyards and old olive groves, castles, villas and medieval centres ripe for exploration; while at nights you stay in family-run hotels full of character, where your hosts will introduce you to the delights of their local sites and trattorias. Flexibility is a key component here, depending on the level of your cycle experience: if you’re not so keen on offroad mountain biking, a tarmac itinerary is also available.
Departs: Daily from April to October 2010
Price: from £950 per person
Venetian Highlights (8 days)
Launches: 17 April 2010
With its rich history, natural features and strong cultural traditions, the Veneto region is a cyclist’s paradise – and this weeklong trip allows you to see it all! The diverse array of highlights includes the lagoons and beaches surrounding Venice, rolling hills and river landscapes. From the famous city of Venice to Vicenza, the city of Palladio and the charming fishing town of Chioggia, there will be ample opportunity to discover the cities, dine on fresh local cuisine and visit some of the legendary sites. From Abano Terme, famous for its thermal spa, the cycle continues through green pastures to return to the sea and the starting point on the edge of Venice…
Departs: Every Saturday from 17 April to 9 October 2010
Price: from £690 per person
Slovenia Adventure (10 days)
Launches: 3 May 2010
Slovenia encompasses a wealth of stunning natural features: this self guided cycle journey takes in all of the highlights while allowing for time to appreciate the unique culture and culinary delights. From Lake Bohinj and the delightful lakeside town of Bled, the cycle continues around the Julian Alps, with a white water rafting experience on the vivid blue waters of the Soca River! In the wine growing region of Brda enjoy a special dinner and wine tasting before heading to the massive Skocjan Caves with its underground gorge. Ending in the capital city of Ljubljana, there is time to explore the old town and sample the local cuisine.
Departs: Every Monday from May to September 2010
Price: £1,190 per person
Swiss Cycle Tour (10 days)
Launches: 4 May 2010
The famous German poet Johann Wolfgang Goethe was enamoured by the alpine landscapes of Switzerland and the ideal balance between well-ordered hamlets and grand mountain views. Today, the snow capped mountains, wide lakes and green pastures with traditional wooden houses continue to be a highlight of any travel through the country. From the charming lakeside city of Zurich and following a mainly dedicated cycle path, this self guided cycle holiday visits the town of Lucerne, the capital city of Bern and the baroque city of Solothurn – past castles, thermal springs and the picturesque Rheinfall waterfall.
Departs: on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 May to 7 October 2010
Price: from £990 per person
Quoted prices are inclusive of accommodation, most meals, rental bike and adjustment by a cycling specialist, luggage transfers between hotels (where applicable) and clear maps with images. Flights from the UK are not included but can be booked on request.
For more information and bookings, go to: UTracks.com