Itinerary

Day 1 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Depart U.S. / Fly overnight to Salzburg

Depart from the U.S. for Austria. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 2 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Arrive Salzburg / Begin your Trip Extension in Salzburg

Upon arrival at the Salzburg Airport, a VBT representative will meet you outside the customs area in your arrival terminal. The representative will be holding a VBT sign and will help you transfer by private car or van (approximately 25 minutes) to your hotel in the Salzburg city center. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and explore the city. Tonight, choose a local restaurant for dinner on your own.

Please note: If you arrive early, your hotel room may not be available until 1 p.m. You may store your luggage with the Reception Desk. If you are traveling from the West Coast, your arrival in Salzburg may not be until late in the evening.

VBT provides you with a City Information Packet in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Salzburg during your stay.

Day 1 of AIR PACKAGE Depart U.S. / Fly overnight to Salzburg

Depart from the U.S. for Austria. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 3 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Salzburg

Stroll the streets of this romantic city and explore independently today. Visit the Mozarteum, a museum dedicated to Mozart's life, or several other artistic centers like the Carolino Augusteum or the Baroque Museum. See the cathedral or St. Peter's Abbey. Salzburg's city center is easily walkable and contains a number of outdoor cafés and restaurants. Tonight, dinner is on your own.

Day 2 of AIR PACKAGE Arrive in Salzburg

Upon arrival at the Salzburg Airport, claim your luggage and clear customs. VBT's local representative will meet you outside the customs area in your arrival terminal and will be holding a VBT sign. Your representative will help you transfer (approximately 25 minutes) to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and explore the city. Tonight, choose a restaurant for dinner on your own.

Please note: If you arrive early, your hotel room may not be available until 1 p.m. You may store your luggage with the Reception Desk. If you are traveling from the West Coast, your arrival in Salzburg may not be until late in the evening.

Stroll the quiet pedestrian streets of this romantic city and explore on your own.

Day 4 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Salzburg / Join VBT Air Package guests

After breakfast, continue exploring Salzburg. Dinner is on your own tonight. Air Package guests arrive throughout the day.

Day 1 of BIKE TOUR Trip Leaders / Warm-up ride / Welcome reception

VBT No-Air Package guests: Meet your local VBT representative and the rest of the group at our Salzburg hotel – Hotel Goldener Hirsch (address: Imperial Hotels Austria AG Getreidegasse 37, 5020 Salzburg, Austria. t +43 662 8084-884 f +43 662 8084-845) at 8:30 a.m. Please meet your VBT representative dressed in cycling clothes and ready for biking. Make sure your luggage is tagged with VBT yellow tags. If you have brought your own pedals, please have them ready to give to your Trip Leaders.

If you are so delayed that you will miss the morning safety meeting and warm-up ride, then we suggest you take a train to Villach. Trains from Salzburg to Villach operate every couple of hours and cost approximately 30 euros/$45 USD. From Villach you will need to take a taxi to our first hotel in Podkoren-Kranjska Gora (about 16 miles from Villach, at approximately 60 euros/$90 USD), where the group will arrive around 4:30 p.m.

If you are delayed for any reason, please contact Hotel Goldener Hirsch in Salzburg to advise of any travel delays or changes, and the staff will pass your message on to your VBT Trip Leaders.

VBT Air Package guests & Pre-trip Extension guests: Meet your local VBT representative at the Salzburg hotel at 8:30 a.m. Please come dressed in cycling clothes and ready for biking. Make sure your luggage is ready in the lobby and tagged with VBT yellow tags. If you have brought your own pedals, please have them ready to give to your Trip Leaders.

From Salzburg, transfer by private motorcoach (approx. 2 hours, 15 minutes) to Feistritz where we will meet one of our VBT Trip Leaders. After a short rest stop we will continue to the story-book setting of Lake Bled (approx. 1 hour) a glacial lake in the Julian Alps. After lunch on our own, our leaders will hold a safety and bike-fitting session followed by a warm-up ride. The area is particularly charming and ideal for easy biking around scenic Lake Bled. If time allows, you may also opt to take a boat to Bled Island – the only natural island in Slovenia and home to the beautiful Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary or walk up the hill to Bled Castle, the oldest castle in Slovenia with its amazing views over Lake Bled.

Later today, we transfer by coach (approx. 30 minutes) to our first hotel in the quiet hamlet of Podkoren, outside Kranjska Gora, a ski resort. Upon arrival, take some time to settle in and relax, or enjoy the sauna or a stroll before enjoying a welcome reception and hearty dinner.

The Hotel Vitranc in Podkoren, in the Julian Alps, has a long tradition of hospitality. Vitranc was the name of the beloved stallion of the first owners. The house maintains the simplicity and charm of a family-run mountain guesthouse, where guests immediately feel at home. The Pajzl area, or pub, has a separate entrance and is still the preferred stop for a chat and beer by locals after dinner.

Day 2 of BIKE TOUR Cycle into Italy and to Kranjska Gora, Slovenia / Cooking demonstration

After breakfast this morning, we ride along an easy path in a pristine alpine landscape that takes us beyond the Italian border. Riding back to Slovenia, we visit the charming village of Kranjska Gora, famous for its World Cup ski area and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. We cycle through pine forests, passing picturesque wooden houses along the Sava River. When we arrive at the village of Mojstrana, we'll pause for a picnic lunch prepared by our tour leaders.

After our stop, we'll cycle back to our inn, where we'll learn how to prepare struklji, a Slovenian sweet, with our smiling Chef Ales and some local friends. The class is an opportunity for a cultural exchange with people still tightly linked to old traditions.

Dinner is at a local restaurant.

Day 3 of BIKE TOUR Bike to Austria / Villach / Ride on easy bike paths to Ossiacher Lake

This morning, a scenic ride through the century-old forest of Tarvisio takes us from Slovenia into Italy. Along the way, we'll be treated to staggering vistas of the snow-capped Julian Alps. In Tarvisio, we stop for a short walk near the old main square and maybe for an Italian gelato, and then resume cycling on an easy bike path into Austria. Beyond the pass—and through the immense limestone wall formed by the Carnic Alps and the Karavanken—we continue cycling along the banks of the Gail River in Carinthia. This region is a scenic paradise due to the abundance of rivers and small emerald lakes set against the backdrop of the Noric and Carnic Alps. En route to Villach, we pick a local Gasthof (café) for lunch on our own. In the afternoon, we continue biking to Villach—the largest city of Carinthia—and perhaps opt for a longer loop to Ossiacher Lake. Our hotel is located on a charming cobblestone street in Villach, a few steps away from our bike path on the Drava River.

This evening, you might choose to relax and enjoy a sauna or Turkish bath on the roof of the hotel before gathering for an Austrian dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4 of BIKE TOUR The Drava River Bike Path / Ride to Spittal

Today, our easy bike path follows the banks of the picturesque Drava River. The Drava is a major right-bank tributary of the Danube River and is still a small river in this section. Our path follows the valley through deep wooded slopes and sunny cornfields. At times we'll catch a glimpse of the high roof of a church bell tower or of a small village laid out like a blanket against the flanks of the mountain. We stop for an organic lunch at a small farm. In the afternoon, our ride continues to Spittal, where there is time to explore before catching a ride back on the local train, a very popular means of transportation for bicyclists in this area. If you look for more miles to bike, you can cycle all the way back to Villach quietly and safely on the Drava River bike paths.

Back in Villach, enjoy time to relax or shop before picking a restaurant for dinner on your own in one of the vaulted medieval streets just behind our hotel.

Day 5 of BIKE TOUR Cycle to Wörthersee Lake and Velden

After breakfast, we cycle along the Drava River bike path toward Wörthersee Lake. The bike path starts literally a few steps from our door. As we leave behind us the high pinnacles of Sant Jakob's Church, we are immediately immersed in natural beauty: the quiet Drava River on our right, small fishing ponds on our left, then a little hamlet with heart-shaped windows and manicured gardens. The landscape varies every few miles. On the way, you may stop at your leisure to enjoy the packed picnic lunch prepared for you so that you may make the most of your day in the tranquil countryside.


Later in the afternoon, we arrive in Velden, the little “Monte Carlo” of Carinthia. Home to many wealthy, ancient families, Velden is a town of elegant mansions, colorful gardens and refined lakeside restaurants. Our hotel is the magnificent Schloss Velden, an ancient castle on the lake banks, reopened in 2007 after a long and detailed restoration. Condé Nast Traveler has featured Schloss Velden as a “Hot Hotel” and its spa center as the “Hot Spa” of Austria – making it one of the 139 most luxurious and innovative hotels and resorts in the world.

Day 6 of BIKE TOUR Cycle around the Wörthersee Lake

Our bike ride today takes us around the Wörthersee Lake. On the southern bank, be sure to visit the picturesque village of Maria Wörth, which features two little medieval churches and a small peninsula that juts dramatically into the lake. A more challenging option for avid bikers follows the hills south of the lake, with scenic rides in the forest before getting to Maria Wörth. On the northern side, Pörtschach is an exclusive tourist resort, beautifully located on a little bay. The longer cycling option allows you to make the full circle back to the hotel. Other options include a shuttle to our hotel or a ferry ride across the lake.

Spend the rest of the afternoon swimming, relaxing or enjoying water sports on our hotel's private beach. Thanks to the natural hot springs, the waters are sure to be warm and pleasant. Alternately, you might choose to pamper yourself at the hotel's luxurious spa center.

In the evening, we gather for a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 7 of BIKE TOUR Transfer to Venice / Free time / VBT No-Air Package ends

VBT No-Air Package guests: After breakfast, transfer to the Velden railway station, where you can easily connect to Salzburg and Vienna. You will be arriving at the railway station at about 8:50 a.m., in time to catch the 9:02 a.m. train to Salzburg.

VBT Air Package guests: After breakfast, transfer by private motorcoach (approximately 3 hours) to Venice for your final overnight stay. Our hotel is located on Venice Island, in the city center. Our driver will drop you at one of the city gate parking areas, where a water taxi will take you straight into the heart of the city.

VBT provides you with a City Information Packet in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Venice during your stay.

Day 8 of AIR PACKAGE Depart for U.S.

After breakfast* this morning, transfer to the Venice airport (approximately 1 hour) for your departing flight**. Please ensure that you are ready in the hotel reception area at the designated time. Do not let your water taxi wait.

*Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

**Please note: VBT recommends that you check your transfer time in your “Transfer Reminder.” VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Day 1 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Begin your optional extension

If you have chosen the optional Post-Trip Extension, you have a full day to explore Venice. Built on 118 islands in a shallow lagoon, Venice is a city like no other. It contains more than 150 canals and 400 bridges, which are delightful to explore by gondola or water taxi. Much of the island can also be seen on foot. Be sure to visit the Grand Canal and the famous Rialto Bridge, as well as St. Mark's Basilica, one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in Europe. Other spots not to miss include the Bridge of Sighs (said to provide prisoners with their last view of freedom before their incarceration), the Doge's Palace, the Academia gallery and the famous glass-blowing island of Murano. Your centrally located hotel will make it easy to access all the wonderful features this famous city has to offer.

VBT provides you with a City Information Packet in your Final Travel Booklet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Venice during your stay.

Day 2 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Venice

Continue your independent exploration of Venice today.

Day 3 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Depart for U.S.

After breakfast* this morning, transfer to the Venice airport (approximately 1 hour) for your departing flight**. Please ensure you are ready in the hotel reception area at the designated time. Do not let your water taxi wait.

*Please note: For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the Front Desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

**Please note: VBT recommends that you check your transfer time in your “Transfer Reminder.” VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Slovenia, Austria & Italy 2012

Pre and Post Trip Extensions

Pre-Trip Extension

Salzburg 2012 - 2 nights for only $345

Beautiful Salzburg has served as a cultural center since the time of the ancient Romans. Today, this charming city remains a destination for music, art and architecture. Visit the Mozarteum, a museum dedicated to Mozart’s life, or several other artistic centers like the Carolino Augusteum or the Baroque Museum. See some of the settings used in the beloved film, The Sound of Music. Tour the Grosses Festspiehaus, where the city’s famous music festival takes place. Salzburg’s convenient city center presents many opportunities within walking distance: Relax with locals in outdoor cafés and restaurants, and stroll to sites like the spectacular Cathedral and St. Peter’s Abbey, as well as other churches, castles and palaces.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Please note: Any departures between July 20 and August 20, during the Salzburg Festival, includes 2 nights for only $545. Single supplement $295.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $195.

Post-Trip Extension

Venice 2012 (Slovenia) - 2 nights for only $345

Often referred to as the most romantic city in the world, the island of Venice is a sight not to be missed. During your extension, you will stay in a four-star hotel furnished in the elegant, traditional Venetian style. Located in the heart of the Cannaregio district on Venice Island, on a quiet side street, your hotel is just a short walk from the Rialto Bridge, the lagoon and St. Mark’s Square. Travel as the locals do, by vaporetto (water bus) or more privately by gondola, as you ply the Grand Canal. View masterpieces by Titian, Bellini and Donatello. Venture to Murano, the famous glass-blowing center. And relax at an outdoor café at the Piazza San Marco. This historic city is truly a must-see!

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $195.

Accommodations

Hotel Goldener Hirsch

Hotel Goldener Hirsh is a 5 star luxury hotel situated on the renowned Getreidegasse Street in the very heart of Salzburg. Across from the Festival Hall and down the street from Mozart’s house, a short walk from designer boutiques and the Salzach River, the Goldener Hirsch features 69 rooms beautiful rooms decorated in Salzburg-style and all amenities of a modern hotel. Each room is exquisitely embellished with handmade rugs and furniture, handpicked by local Countess Harriet Walderdorff.

Hotel Vitranc

This small hotel was built before the Second World War and has a long tradition as a family-run guest-house (Slovenian Gostilna). The beautiful renovation in 2007 preserved the country style and simple, welcoming ambience. It is located in Podkoren, outside Granjska Gore, facing the World Cup ski track. The hotel has a restaurant, a Paizl (pub) where locals stop for a chat and beer after work, and an ancient annex with ten apartments, a fireplace room and a small wellness area with sauna.

Romantik Hotel Post

In the old days, this hotel was a stop for travelers, coaches and horses on an important trading road. Stables for ten horses were once located where the cafe is now, and regular departures were scheduled from here to Spittal, Tirol, Klagenfurt, Ljubljana, Udine and Venice. This hotel – built in the 14th century – proudly displays the history and the distinguished noble families who stayed here. In 1759 the Empress Maria Theresia resided here. This romantic hotel has beautiful, vaulted ceilings, thick walls, a lovely garden and a convenient location in the Villach city center, just a few steps from our bike path along the Drau River.

Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden

One of the world's most luxurious and innovative hotels, this ancient castle has lured royalty, celebrities, dignitaries and writers since the late 1800s. Located on a Wörthersee Lake promenade, it reopened in 2007—after a short time as a private residence—wondrously transformed into a sumptuous retreat with a private lakefront, fitness center, award-winning spa, indoor and outdoor pools, library, sand tennis courts, a putting green, and gourmet, fine and casual dining, among many other splendid features. Condé Nast Traveler has featured Schloss Velden as a “Hot Hotel” and its spa center as a “Hot Spa” of Austria, making it one of the 139 most luxurious and innovative hotels and resorts in the world. Its restaurant, Sclossstern, has a one-star Michelin rating, and its spa has been elected “Best Spa in Austria 2008” by Gault Millau. Your elegantly appointed room includes television, a refreshment center stocked with complimentary beverages, and bedside touch-panel controls for lighting and drapes.

Hotel Saturnia

Hotel Saturnia is strategically located on via XXII Marzo, the main street connecting famous St. Mark’s square with the Accademia Art Galleries. Via XXII Marzo, is also one of the main shopping streets, lined with famous fashion names like Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Ferragamo and many more. Just steps away is the famous "La Fenice Theatre" and within walking distance is the Rialto Bridge and the world renowned Guggenheim Collection in the former residence of Peggy Guggenheim. The hotel celebrated its centennial in 2008 and over the century, it has combined tradition with elegance and style to accommodate the needs of today’s traveler. For the past 30 years the hotel has been operated by the grandchildren of the original owner. The family’s pride is the hotel’s restaurant - La Caravella Restaurant -- rated as one of Venice’s best. Hotel guests are entitled to a 10% discount in this ever-popular restaurant.

Rating Level

Easy

This tour offers easy terrain throughout the trip and is ideal for beginning cyclists.