The magnificent Columbia River Gorge; carved by North America s second largest river.

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1 Introduction Dear Guest, M y name is Aaron and I am the Area Manager and lead guide for Oregon. I m excited to introduce you to this area where I have lived for 15 years. I may be biased but I m convinced that Oregon has some of the best bicycle touring in the world. For me, the highlights of this tour are: The country s best Pinot Noir. The magnificent Columbia River Gorge; carved by North America s second largest river. A backdrop that includes the snow-capped volcanoes of Mt Hood and Mt Adams. The Historic Columbia River Highway one of Bicycling Magazine s best bike rides. We are an owner-operated company based in Portland, so you will be looked after by real locals. We are also the leading Bike Tour Company in the State of Oregon. On all our tours we promise that your group will never be larger than 12 people and we never cancel a trour. On this tour we can cater to all levels of riders. As locals, we lead you to the hidden gems in the area and, because we love our food, you will be eating at some of the best restaurants in a region famous for its local cuisine. The Pinot Noir is outstanding here too so we will be dropping by a number of wineries in fact, wineries are our de facto rest stops! Of course, we take care of all the logistics: one guide with the support van is always nearby and a guide rides with the group. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing my favorite places. Aaron Michalson Area Manager US & Canada: Other Page: 1

2 Itinerary Day 1 Banks-Vernonia Trail to Newberg Y ou will be met at your hotel in Portland in the morning from where we head west into the foothills of the Coast Range. Your ride starts on the Banks-Vernonia State Trail a state park. This car-free trail is built on an abandoned railroad bed and has a gentle grade through scenic fields and forests. The trail also features 12 bridges including a 600-foot long, 80-foot high railroad trestle. You ride the trail into Banks a quaint town of 1300 people. From here, it s a 10-miles cruise to the center of Forest Grove. This section of riding is where you ll see your first vineyards as we guide you on small lanes over gently undulating terrain. After lunch you can ride or join the shuttle to some of our favorite local wineries. From the wineries there is a great ride into Newberg, or you can hop in the van and relax at the spa at the Alison Inn. We stay overnight at the Allison Inn in Newberg perhaps the best hotel in Oregon. We host an evening wine reception here followed by dinner at the hotel s Jory restaurant one of the best restaurants in the area. Ride Options Easy 20 miles; mostly flat or gently downhill Intermediate Up to 30 miles; rolling terrain Challenging Up to 55 miles; 2100 feet of climbing Highlights Car free Banks-Vernonia bike trail Wineries Relaxing at the Allison Inn and Spa Lunch provided in Forrest Grove and dinner at the Allison Inn US & Canada: Other Page: 3

3 Itinerary Day 2 Loop Rides in Wine Country T oday you will ride a meandering route that explores quiet lanes and unveils stunning views as well as taking you past a host of great little wineries. The emphasis here is on the smaller wineries many of which are family run and/or organic. Towns you can visit include Dundee, Newburg, and Carlton. You are in the heart of wine country notably the Dundee Hills; home to some of the country s best Pinot Noir. The Dundee Hills appellation is situated within an irregular circle of about 6,490 acres in total, of which more than 1,200 acres are planted vineyards. These red hills also have some of the most spectacular views of the Willamette Valley and beyond to snow-capped peak of Mt. Hood. We host a picnic lunch at one such winery. For those looking for a challenge, there s a great loop ride out into the Coast Range. You again stay at the Allison Inn and have the opportunity to relax by their pool and enjoy the spa facilities. In the evening we host you at one of our favorite farm-to-table restaurants near Newburg. Ride Options Easy 20 miles; gently rolling terrain Intermediate miles; rolling terrain Challenging miles; 1800 to 2000 feet of climbing Highlights More wineries with world class Pinot Views across vineyards to snowcapped peaks Lunch OYO and dinner OYO US & Canada: Other Page: 4

4 Itinerary Day 3 Newberg to Welches Y our day starts with a transfer to the slopes of Mount Hood. We drop off at the small lumber town of Sandy in rural Clackamas County. From here you ll ride along quiet lanes alongside the Sandy River. Much of the riding is in the shade of conifer and mixed-wood forests. Through the gaps in the trees you ll see tantalizing glimpses of the snow-capped Mt Hood. Your riding ends in an area known as little Switzerland with its flat glacial valley and expansive view of the snowcapped peak of Mount Hood. For those looking for more miles, there is a great loop up Lolo Pass Rd. This detour allows you to add up to 20 miles of climbing & descending. Your rewards are stunning views and tired legs! You stay overnight at the Resort at the Mountain in the small community of Welches. The town is home to the first golf course in the Oregon. Arrive early and play a round of golf in the late evening sunshine or simply enjoy a cocktail overlooking the first tee! We host dinner at the Altitude Restaurant in the resort. Ride Options Easy 15 miles; mostly flat and gentle climbs Intermediate 25 miles; 1600 feet of climbing Challenging Up to 50 miles; 5000 feet of climbing Highlights Small lanes through national forests Little Switzerland The slopes of Mount Hood Lunch at a local tavern and dinner at the Resort at the Mountain US & Canada: Other Page: 5

5 Itinerary Day 4 Welches to Hood River T oday we head up to the historic Timberline Lodge for breakfast. The lodge is a National Historic Landmark sitting at the snowline of Mount Hood. It was built in the 1930s, by hand, as part of Roosevelt s New Deal initiative. Aggressive riders will start riding from the lodge. Intermediate and beginner riders will take a van transfer around the back of Mount Hood to Cooper Spur in the Hood River Valley. Whichever route you choose, you will complete your ride with a long rolling descent through the Hood River Valley an area known for growing apples, pears, cherries, peaches and other fruits. The many fruit stands make great rest stops. We host a picnic lunch in the valley with fine views back to Mount Hood. You stay overnight at the Villa Columbia in the town of Hood River. Outside magazine named Hood River one of America s Best Towns with antique stores, wine bars, shops and galleries. It s also a haven for wind surfers and beer connoisseurs. Villa Columbia enjoys fine views down to Columbia Gorge and is walking distance to the center of town. Ride Options Easy 25 miles; mostly flat or downhill Intermediate Up to 40 miles; 2000 feet of ascending Challenging 50 miles; 2100 feet of climbing Highlights Mount Hood up close Fruit farms and fruit stands Hood River named one of America s best towns Picnic lunch in Hood Valley and dinner OYO US & Canada: Other Page: 6

6 Itinerary Day 5 Loop Rides out of Hood River F or many, today s riding is the highlight of the trip. You ride on the Historic Columbia River Highway a route Bicycling Magazine described as one of the greatest rides in US. Indeed the route is a Historic Landmark. The route heads east along the Columbia River Gorge and has stunning views at every turn as the road twice climbs high above the gorge then descends back down to river level. Much of the day s ride is on trails closed to traffic other than bikes. As you ride alongside of the gorge, you might think back to the transcontinental expedition of Lewis and Clark. The 33-man expedition hauled roughly 30 tons of equipment along this route! If you would prefer a rest from cycling, we can arrange whitewater rafting or kayaking on the nearby White Salmon River. For more challenging riding, you will follow the route of the Hood River Gran Fondo. This epic ride takes you on quite country roads on the slopes of Mount Hood. You again stay overnight in the town of Hood River and we host dinner at our favorite restaurant in town. Ride Options Easy 15 miles; mostly flat or gently rolling and car free. Intermediate 30 miles; 1700 feet of climbing Challenging 55 miles; 4000 feet of climbing Epic 100 miles; 8500 feet of climbing Highlights The Columbia River Gorge The Historic Columbia River Highway Cheery farms and breweries Lunch OYO and dinner at a local restaurant US & Canada: Other Page: 7

7 Itinerary Day 6 Hood River to Portland T oday we return to Portland but there is still plenty to see and do en route. Those that are keen to cycle will ride the lower sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway past stunning waterfalls and up to Crown Point for perhaps the perhaps most iconic view of the Gorge. Those looking for more miles will head all the way into Portland on a combination of bike paths and quiet roads. These riders will experience firsthand cycling in one of America s most bike-friendly cities. Those who want a rest from the saddle will hike up and around Multnomah Falls. At 620 feet, this spectacular waterfall is Oregon s tallest. Whatever you choose to do, we ll get you back into Portland in time to enjoy some city sightseeing. We would also be pleased to drop you at the airport, if that s more convenient for you. Ride Options Easy 15 miles; mostly flat or gently rolling Intermediate 30 miles; 1600 feet of climbing Challenging 50 miles; 2000 feet of climbing Highlights Chasing waterfalls More Historic Columbia River Highway Return to Portland Lunch provided en route back to Portland and dinner OYO US & Canada: Other Page: 8

8 Accommodation Newberg The Allison Inn & Spa The Inn is set among vineyards, orchards and rich, agricultural farmland in the northeast corner of Newberg. The rooms & suites all have private balconies and there is a 15,000 square foot spa with 12 treatment rooms. The property is two miles from the center of Newburg but has an excellent restaurant. One of the best hotels in the Oregon. Welches Resort at the Mountain The Resort at The Mountain has recently completed a $14 million renovation of the existing resort facilities and it shows; from the guest rooms to the restaurant and lounge. There is also an excellent full-service spa and Oregon s first golf course. There are a couple of restaurants on the property one of which overlooks the fairway. Hood River Villa Columbia B&B The Villa Columbia B&B is a well-appointed house in the historic downtown district. Most rooms have Jacuzzi tubs, rain showers and river views. There are nice common areas including a pleasant porch and a balcony. This very-well-run B&B is just three blocks from the restaurants & shops of the central, downtown area. US & Canada: Other Page: 9

9 Dates & Prices Dates The best months for cycling in this region are from June through September when the temperatures are pleasantly warm and the risk of rainfall much lower. Month Start Dates June Sun, Jun 26, 2016 July Sun, Jul 24, 2016 August Sun, Aug 21, 2016 September Sun, Sep 11, 2016 If you don t see a date that works for you let us know and we will create a trip just for you. Prices $2,995 per person for two people sharing accommodation. Single supplement is $750. Ins & Outs The trip price includes: Transfer from downtown Portland and back again at the end of the tour. Five nights accommodation with breakfast. Daily snacks and drinks. Local guides and dedicated van support for multiple route options each day. Four lunches and four dinners. Hybrid bike. The trip price does not include: One dinner and three lunches. Alcohol at dinner and any wine tasting fees. Activities such as rafting and spa treatments but we are pleased to make reservations on your behalf. US & Canada: Other Page: 10

10 Dates & Prices Our Bikes We have three styles of bikes available. Hybrid bikes are included in the price. You may upgrade to a Road Bike or a Premium Road Bikes for $100 and $250 respectively. Hybrid Hybrids bikes are a cross between a mountain bike and a road bike. They have a relaxed riding position and are great for beginners and intermediate riders. We rent Trek 7.3 FX with Shimano components and high-pressure road tires for better cycling efficiency than your typical hybrid. Road Bike Our road bikes are a racing style bike with drop handlebars. The road bikes are faster bikes than the hybrids with a more aggressive riding position and will be enjoyed by intermediate and experienced riders. We rent the Trek Domane 2.3 with an aluminum frame, carbon front forks, and Shimano 105 components. Premium Road Bike Our Premium Road Bikes are hand-crafted by French custom builder Cyfac. Cyfac bikes are famous among professional riders as the real frame beneath the sponsor s paint. Cyfac frames have been ridden to victories anonymously in cycling s most prestigious events. Avid cyclists will love these Proxidium Carbon bikes with aluminum/carbon frames and SRAM Rival components. Bike Shipping If you are bringing your own bike and would like to ship it ahead of time, we would be pleased to receive and assemble it for you before the trip. At the end of the trip, we can also pack up the bike and deliver it to a shipper such as UPS. The charge of receipt, assembly, packing and delivery to shipper is $100 per bike. This is a courtesy service provided on the assumption that we are not liable for any damage sustained during packing, unpacking or shipping. We strongly recommend that you take out insurance when shipping your bike. Please arrange for your bike to arrive at least 5 days before the start of your trip. US & Canada: Other Page: 11

11 Dates & Prices Payment Policy A payment of 10% of the total price is required to secure a reservation. Payment of the balance is due 60 days prior to the start of the trip. We give a full refund less a $150 administration fee for any trip cancelled over 90 days before the start of the trip. After this date, refunds are made according to the following schedule: From 61 to 90 days: 90% of the full trip price is refunded. Normally we simply retain the 10% deposit. If you rebook in the future, you can reuse this deposit less an administration fee of $150. From 30 to 60 days of the start of the trip your choice of EITHER a 50% refund or 80% of the trip cost (less an administration fee of $150) available towards a future trip with LifeCycle Adventures. Within 30 days of travel: sorry, no refund. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance to cover you in the event of having to cancel your trip and we ask all guests to sign an accident waiver. A copy of the waiver can be found at NOTE: Once we have confirmed your booking, we will never cancel the trip. If we break this promise we will give you a full refund plus a further 50% discount on any future trip with us. For tours with less than six people you will receive all services listed above with the exception that there will not be an on-bike guide. If the group is four people or smaller, we will not host group dinners; instead we will refund you $500 and you will settle your own dining costs. US & Canada: Other Page: 12

12 Other Information Where to Stay Before the Trip Guests typically stay in Portland before and/or after their trip. If you d like us to make reservations, just let us know. If you re making your own arrangements, we ve had good feedback from past guests for the following hotels & B&Bs: Portland Hotels Most popular with our guests is the Heathman Hotel The following are also good choices: Hotels Near PDX Airport The Nines Hotel Monaco River Place Hotel Hotel Fifty There are a number of the standard hotels that have a shuttle service to the terminals including: Radisson Hotel Courtyard by Marriott Hyatt Place Portland Airport Arrival & Departure Information You will be met at the time and place listed in your Trip Specification above. If you would like to change this, please let us know. We re also happy to collect you from the airport. Most guests fly into Portland (PDX) Airport. There are a number of good options for getting into downtown Portland from PDX: A cab will cost between $30 and $40 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. There are a number of companies including Radio Cab - (503) / Blue Star Transportation operates both a scheduled services ($14pp reservations not typically required) stopping at major hotels and a door-to-door service ($36 for two people reservations required) / The MAX Light Rail service goes from the airport to the center of Portland in about 45 minutes and costs $2.40pp. You can ride your bike to and from the airport for free. This being Portland, there is a multi-use path as well as secure bicycle parking, and a bike assembly and repair station right by baggage claim! US & Canada: Other Page: 13

13 Guest Comments Testimonials & Guest Feedback Here s a small sample of what past guests have said about us. If you would like to talk to a past guest, just let us know and we ll be glad to put you in contact. One of our best vacations ever! We have recommended LifeCycle Adventures to all our friends! Ted and Nancy Staley St. Louis, MO From the pick-up to the drop off, the entire trip was well planned and supported by the helpful and friendly staff. The only thing my wife and I did was relax, cycle and eat! A great and beautiful vacation that we will never forget. Thanks! Jon and Babbie Styslinger Kansas City, MO We have cycled extensively on luxurious European self-guided tours. LifeCycle provided the most sophisticated and comprehensively thought-out trip along with their brilliant personalized guidebook. A wonderful experience. Antoinette Russell and Louis Bailey Brookline, MA I planned a bike trip with my daughter. Neither of us are 'bikers'. Lifecycle Adventures met all of our expectations and afforded us the ability to change plans on-the-fly as circumstances arose. We had an outstanding vacation. Brad and Nicole Jameson Philadelphia, PA Donna and I had the best time with our friends cycling. Lifecycle Adventures was always nearby but were never intrusive. That really maximized our experience. We really felt like we were on a self-guided adventure; that is until we were greeted at our hotel with our daily wine purchases and great accommodations. If you are thinking about cycling the wine country, I highly recommend using Lifecycle Adventures. John & Donna Lossie Birmingham, AL I've ridden with many of the more popular, name-brand tour companies. I found LifeCycle Adventures to meet or exceed their competitors in all aspects. Their personal attention to detail makes you feel like their only customer! Joseph Husslein Tamuning, Guam It was a vacation of a life time, a dream come true, I would highly recommend it to everyone. Laurie & Bruce Baltimore, MD Everything was perfect! The route was great, the bikes were awesome and the hotel and lodging suggestions were perfect. We loved every minute! So nice to have it all organized, and not to have to make decisions on vacation. Linda and John Rodney Frisco, CO What a great experience! As a rookie cyclist I had never ever done a trip like this and loved every minute. The experience of a lifetime. Odarka Cruikshank & Karen Leier Saskatoon, Canada Lifecycles arranged the perfect tour for our special birthday celebration. We got exactly what we asked for and all staff were well informed, helpful and a pleasure to deal with. We would not hesitate to recommend lifecycles to any of our friends and would love to come back for another tour. Sherry Winternitz and Jean Frazier Newton, MA Your organization is very detail-oriented, professionally run, and a pleasure to work with. We are sending our friends to you. Thanks for a terrific, hassle-free, cycling trip. Christina & Alex Danyluk Edwards, CO US & Canada: Other Page: 14

14 Contact Details Go Ahead, Make My Day! Don t leave me hanging; let me know what you think of this itinerary I prepared for you. To make it easy, here are some choices! A. I loved it, but the timing s not quite right. B. Some minor tweaks and we ll be ready to go. C. It s perfect, how do I book? D. Richard Branson just called to invite me to his private island for a month all expenses paid. So, maybe next year! Just let me know how I can help! Stacey Royce Head of Sales & Co-Owner LifeCycle Adventures LIFECYCLE ADVENTURES stacey@lifecycleadventures.com U.S. & Canada: Other Countries: Fax: US & Canada: Other Page: 15