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Amgen Tour of California Solvang Time Trial |
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February 19th-22nd 2009 |
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$695 |
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Our wonderful trip starts on Thursday, Feb 19th at high noon the day before the stage. Mingle with your fellow riders at our complimentary bike inspection and mini tune-up. This bike tour gets rolling right away with a pre-ride of the time trial course. This 15 mile loop heads out to the town of Los Olivos where many of the scenes from the movie Sideways were filmed. Then it’s a roller coaster ride back to downtown Solvang where we officially check in to our Worldmark 4 star resort, (where you can go for a dip in the pool or soak in the hot tub). At or around 7 we all meet in the common room for a family style “Carbo-loading” dinner. This meal is especially designed for the active cyclist. How ‘about another helping of pasta, some dessert? Sure! No problem. We’ll work it off tomorrow!
It’s morning, on the day of the time trials. Mmmm…. Smell that? It’s fresh baked pastries and fresh brewed coffee right from our own full kitchen. One of the many “perks” you won’t get at a hotel based tour. At 8 am, we roll out on our big ride because today, we are riding to the races! It’s no wonder that Tour de France winning teams choose Solvang for their training. The riding is world class. Beautiful scenery, quiet roads, and that quaint little Dutch village make it our favorite as well. Around 11:00 am, we’ll rendezvous at our pre-staked vantage point to see the best of the best battle it out “contre la montre”. The time trials are my favorite stages since you get up close to the action and not just for one brief Whoosh! Enjoy sipping wine (or beer) and nibbling on cheese and cold cuts watching the world’s greatest sport just like the French do. This is not a tailgate frenzy in the parking lot before the big game, but a relaxing picnic in the countryside. Before the sun goes down we get back on our bikes and enjoy a leisurely cruise back to Worldmark. After relaxing those achy muscles in the hot-tub and getting cleaned up, we head over to The Vineyard House for dinner. A beautiful Victorian, owned by avid cyclist Jim Sobell, the Vineyard House is one of the finest restaurants in the area. Jim will have something special cooked up just for us. After a European style night of food, drink and merriment, it’s back to our hotel for a good night’s sleep.
It’s morning on day 3. We walk across the street to the village of Solvang for breakfast. There, you’ll feast on a Dutch delicacy known as Abelskievers. These yummy “pancake” spheres are traditionally served dusted with powdered sugar and a side of raspberry jam. This wonderful cycling fuel is just what we need for today’s big ride. Our 50 miler rolls by way too fast so we’ve thrown in a few winery stops. We’ll see the some big names like Sunstone, Fess Parker and Kalyra as well as some little gems like Tres Hermanas. Worried about the miles? Our support vehicle is always nearby, (usually taking pictures) with snacks, water, “hill support”, or even some words of encouragement. You “Type-A” people need more miles? We have options to extend the miles and still receive the vehicle support. You can ride at your own pace. At Luke Manohans, we never coral you into group or force you to ride in a pace line. This is your tour. Back at the resort, more soaking in the hot tub, and another night of fine dining.
The next morning, (after sleeping in) we meet for brunch. Saying farewell, we take with us memories of a lifetime, pictures, and some new friendships. Hopefully Solvang will become your secret weekend getaway as well!
Luke.
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CYCLE TOURS |