“The greatest meeting of land & sea.” This famous phrase describes Big Sur, the 90-mile stretch of rugged and awesomely beautiful Pacific coastline, bordered by Carmel to the north and San Simeon (Hearst Castle) to the south. Highway One winds along its length and is flanked on one side by the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains and on the other side by the rocky Pacific Coast.
Big Sur, The Undiscovered Country Way Cycling the breathtaking coastline of Big Sur might just be the ultimate California bike touring experience, rated a Top Ten Touring Area by Adventure Cyclist Magazine. Such a special place demands a special biking tour, which is what Undiscovered Country Tours has in store for up to 12 fortunate guests. It starts with the times of year, Spring and Fall. This is when the weather is ideal for cycling: not too hot, not too cold, not to wet. It's also when the summertime tourists are gone, leaving the roads less traveled. Springtime brings the emerald green hillsides and colorful wildflowers. In Fall, the hills turn a golden brown, and the leaves begin to show their colors.
Then there are the places Undiscovered Country Tours chooses to visit. Begin in Carmel Valley, a tranquil location ringed by mountains and dotted with vineyards. Soon, make your way through the waterfronts of Monterey and Pacific Grove to the world famous 17-Mile Drive, a fitting start to the trip. No other expanse offers the natural splendor of 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach as this road hugs the dramatic Pacific coastline and delves deep into the 5,000-acre Del Monte Forest.
Highway One takes you along the rugged cliffs and through the coastal forests of Big Sur, where you spend the night under the towring redwoods at the Big Sur Lodge. Then, continue south as you roll past Hearst Castle and on to the charming coastal town of Cambria, loaded with quaint shops and innovative restaurants. From Cambria, head inland to the bountiful winery region of Paso Robles, where you will spend the night at the relaxing and historic Paso Robles Inn.
Return to Monterey Bay After a night in Paso Robles, take a quick shuttle north through the Salinas Valley, then cycle through the sun-drenched and rural Carmel Valley, where you began the journey. This completes the circular traverse through the varied terrain that defines Central California. The tour ends on a Thursday, so those who wish to can choose to stay another night and enjoy the sights of Monterey Bay (Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey Bay Aquarium, etc.).
The Big Sur region truly is a grand spectacle of natural beauty, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of Undiscovered Country Tours' favorite places to share with guests.
Tour Details
Duration
5 Days
Location
California Pacific Coast
Season
April, May, and October
Tour Type
Road Touring
Nearest City
San Jose
Physical Condition Required
Good
Destination(s)
California, United States
Distance Traveled
30-72 Miles Daily
Minimum Age Limit
21
Skill Levels Accommodated
Moderate
Fully Guided
No
Guest Capacity
12
Support Vehicles
Van, Trailer
Bike Rentals Available
Yes
Bike Brands
Felt, Marin
Rates
$1,195.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Notes
Extend Your Vacation If you would like to take a longer tour, Undiscovered Country Tours has scheduled the Carmel Valley Weekend to follow Big Sur Spectacular. Adding the Carmel Valley Weekend turns the five-day Big Sur Spectacular into an eight-day tour.
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