Oxford Cycling Tour – 8 Days
Type of tour: Guided
Level: 1
Duration: 7 Nights
Distance: 10 Miles/day average
Dates: Apr 4, May 9, Jun 13, Jul 11, Aug 8, Sep 12, Oct 3, 2015 (minimum 2 persons)
Tour price: US$1749
Start city: Oxford, England
End city: Oxford, England
Tour Description
In the glorious city of Oxford, bicycling is a tradition almost as famous as the dreaming spires themselves. Delve in to the rich tapestry of Oxford’s fascinating history on this genteel and picturesque, eco-friendly and inspiring bicycle tour.
Oxford is the gateway to the Cotswolds, as well as Blenheim Palace and its surroundings, both areas of outstanding natural beauty awaiting to be explored.
The Oxford Cycle tour will transport you to a bygone era by exploring the ancient roots of the dreaming spires, its myriad colleges, and the figures who have both inspired and been inspired by Oxford. The tour provide an illuminating view of the city while allowing you to encounter some of the secluded jewels of hidden backstreets and passages that fashion magnificent Oxford, and are not accessible by bus or by car. And all of this explored at a gentle, leisurely pace; truly an adventure not to miss, all the while atop classically styled, English made Pashley Britannia bikes.
With carefully planned routes along cycle paths and picturesque backstreets, this tour takes you safely to places that are easily and conveniently reached and explored on a bicycle. The thoughtfully designated stops allow one to fully absorb Oxford’s atmosphere, as well as ask questions, and capture those special moments for times to come.
This is a truly delightful way to experience the beautiful city of Oxford, and you are invited to celebrate its history and heritage on this tour.
Highlights: Guided Daily Program: Guided Day 1: Arrival in Oxford Day 2: Tour Oxford (8 miles/12 km) Included is a 20 minute refreshment break in the famous 13th century Turf Tavern, where you can purchase the beverage of your choice, as well as free entry to New College, famous not only for its rich academic history, but also as a location for the filming of Harry Potter, as well as inspiring the famous Hogwarts dining room. There will also be many opportunities to take photos and ask questions during the tour, not to mention the unforgettable experience that Oxford, the bicycles, and the friendly and educated guide will provide This tour has been designed to ensure a delightful experience of a most magnificent city, visiting the little spaces and narrow lanes where buses fear to tread! The Tour includes: Day 3: Tour of Oxfordshire (8-10 miles/13-16km) Stop off for lunch at a tradtional English Pub (drink and entry to an Oxford college included). Duration 5 1/2 hours. Please be aware this is a full day cycle tour, but there will be designated stops for the guide to relay information about the city and the Oxford countryside. Day 4: Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds (8-16 miles/13-26 km) Day 5: Free day Day 6: The All Oxford Experience (30 miles/48km) Day 7: Tea with Alice and the Mad Hatter (7 miles/11km) The day’s tour encompasses part walking, genteel cycling (through Oxford’s waterways), a chauffeured punt ride (on the idyllic river Isis), and a private tea party in a secret location. Fun-filled and full of surprises with Alice themed stops along the way. Not to be missed! Duration 3-4 hrs. Day 8: Journey’s End – A Fond Farewell and Happy Trails! IMPORTANT! Included Services: Guided Bike Rentals: Guided Bikes come equipped with: Pedals: Helmets:
Arrival at an Oxford Guesthouse where rental bikes will be delivered. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant/pub.
Overnight in Oxford.
After breakfast, meet at Oxford Cycle Tours Office for an introductory tour of the inspiring city! A fun introduction to the glorious city of Oxford, exploring the sights and sounds, its origins and colleges, while providing a comprehensive tour of the city’s most famous, iconic and inspiring sites.
After breakfast, meet at Oxford Cycle Tours Office for a tour of the glorious countryside of Oxfordshire. Encompassing town and country, the tour starts in the wonderful city of Oxford before escaping the madding crowds and discovering the beautiful Oxfordshire country that lays beyond the city limits, before finally ending back in the city at Oxford’s architectural gem located in Radcliffe square.
Overnight in Oxford.
After breakfast, we are off for a full day tour to magnificent Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Then bike to the glorious Cotswolds.
Overnight in Oxford.
After breakfast, spend the day sightseeing on your own or relaxing. Overnight in Oxford.
After breakfast, meet at Oxford Cycle Tours Office for this tour of all that makes Oxford special! Cycling, Punting on the Thames and a Pub Lunch, and a chance to visit more of the Harry Potter Film Sights!
Overnight in Oxford.
After breakfast, meet at Oxford Cycle Tours Office for our last day tour of Lewis Carroll’s haunts and Tea with the Mad Hatter and Alice! Come and join Alice on her adventures in Oxford, the original wonderland! Can you spot the white rabbit and help Alice escape the Queen of Hearts in time to find her way to the ultimate tea party where amazing delights await!. A vintage style, hand-made Pashley English bicycle is provided, complete with wicker basket, tradtional ding-dong bell, helmet, (upon request) lock, and rain poncho for the occasional wet weather. Also included in the tour package are afternoon tea party treats with sparkling wine and loose leaf tea.
Overnight in Oxford.
After breakfast, departure on your own.
Please note that the itinerary is a statement of intent and to be used as a guideline only. Each day may vary due to the cycling times of the group, weather and trail conditions. The guide in charge of your trip will alter the schedule as necessary and any/all such alterations are at the discretion of BIKE BEYOND BOUNDARIES and your guides.
Bikes available on this tour, and included in the tour cost (reserved in advance at the time of booking):
The bikes are equipped with flat pedals.
Helmet rental is available on this tour, but for safety and hygiene purposes we recommend that you bring your own helmet.