Internationale groepsreis Cycle Cilento & the Amalfi Coast

THE AMALFI COAST

A chance remark by a cycling friend in South Africa led us to Exodus and the Amalfi trip. Amalfi, by reputation, is a beautiful part of Italy and doing it on a bike was truly magnificent. Starting in Cilento was quiet and traffic-friendly for those who are not regular cyclists, although the climbing was an immediate challenge! The Amalfi section was gorgeous, though very busy traffic-wise. Altogether a truly wonderful way of seeing this stretch of Italian coastline.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling from Salerno into Amalfi - not a long ride but one that certainly made me take a deep breath and thank my lucky stars. On our last cycling day we pedalled the beautiful stretch from Amalfi to Positano with cosummate ease, legs and butts well adjusted and the quiet look of satisfaction on everyone's faces was priceless.

What did you think of your group leader?

We were very lucky to have Peter Hoogstaden as our group leader. He has lived in Italy for 15 odd years and with his fluent Italian, extensive local knowledge and enthusiastic attitude we all enjoyed a great week. We were taken to local spots and restaurants that were off the beaten track with a highlight being a boat ride to a simple beach restaurant for a lovely final dinner, rounded off with some seriously potent home-made liqueurs.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The weather took us all by surprise with a cold and wet start so please pack a weatherproof jacket. There is no need to bring your own bike as the supplied bikes were perfectly adequate and the back up good.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I felt that the choice of some of the hotels could be better. Our first two nights were spent in Marina di Camerota and the hotel was gloomy and inhospitable, with quite inedible food. This did not create a good first impression so more research on the hotel choice is needed. The choice of tour leader is also very important, though we had a wonderful group dynamic which always makes it easier for a tour leader.

CYCLING on the Amalfi....a great challenge

11 of us arrived on Day 1 for what would be an amazing cycling tour, not easy for all, especially me...but lots of fun, and pinch me moments as we travelled through such a beautiful part of the world. Together with the scenery came the food....ITALIANs do food so well, and this Exodus trip did not fail to disappoint! We enjoyed a wonderful mix of traditional foods from a variety of restaurants with the most amazing views and people. Both Paulo and Raphael led our trip with professionalism and with humour and friendliness. Nothing was too much trouble. History lessons on the go interspersed with swimming in the ocean( which when the temps soared were much loved), Macciato coffees, and Saints days all added to the colour of Southern Italy. Yes the cycling was hard...but it was well worth it. Grazie to everybody concerned.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Achieving the final day of riding...the longest day from Minori to Sorrento and back...luckily the temperatures had dropped.

What did you think of your group leader?

Awesome leader Paulo, well assisted by mechanic, water boy and driver Rapha. He did a fantastic job, leading the group, who varied in cycling ability, but Paulo was able to make sure everybody was safe on the busy, roads of the Amalfi but still achieve their cycling goals. A great source of knowledge and history.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Accept the challenge, book the trip then train harder than you think you need! If you can find a 12km hill to train on all the better!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The group members also play a major part in the success of the trip...so be prepared to get on , help each other out, and have fun....our group were excellent...from 4 countries, different cycling abilities and across the age spectrum.

Cycling In Amalfi, Italy

A fantastic adventure with a superb guide, delightful scenery, meeting new friends all in on a hybrid bike! Fuelled by wonderful local produce, coffees and wines.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling to the top of the climbs and taking in the breathtaking views.

What did you think of your group leader?

Absolutely first class, Alessandro was our guide, host, coach, cashier, restaurant Booker and friend. Exceptional attention to every detail.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Padded cycle shorts. Get as cycle fit as you can, that way you can enjoy the very best of the scenery.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I wish I'd been on one of these adventures much sooner. Whilst my washing machine deals with my kit, I'm looking to book the next trip.

Best experience for a solo traveller

This was my first experience of travelling solo and my first experience doing an organized cycle tour. So I had a few concerns about whether I would like the group, would the cycling be interesting and challenging enough, would I meet people that I could become long term friends with. Well I should not have worried. The group dynamics were fantastic with a range of ages and professions from all corners of the world and we all got on wonderfully. The cycling was beautiful - I had heard so much about the Amalfi coast so was very surprised that the Cilento coast was even better to cycle with a little less traffic and a lot less touristy. And it was certainly challenging - not ever so much that you think you can't make it but even the fittest of us felt some of the long hills. And we did develop friendships that are enduring - even looking at more trips together. Two thumbs up to Paolo the guide - absolutely brilliant. Accomplishes everything with a smile on his face. He really did an outstanding job keeping us all on track and making sure we were all looked after. But the most pleasant surprise for me was how relaxed you become so quickly. Everything is taken care of for you so the 100 decisions you normally make on holiday such as "where shall we have lunch?" or "what time should we have breakfast or dinner?" are all taken care of for you. In fact by day 3 you didn't have to care about where you slept that night or how far you were going to cycle - you just got on the bike and knew everything would be taken care of. A really relaxing experience!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The highlight for me was probably Cilento - your ride through small coastal villages and the locals seem genuinely happy for you to be there. The few cars you encounter are incredibly considerate even on some pretty narrow roads so you never feel in danger.

What did you think of your group leader?

Paolo was absolutely fantastic. His leadership style certainly taught me a few things. Getting 16 people of all ages and backgrounds to do exactly what he wants when he wants and all enjoying the experience - absolutely no conflict what so ever. Incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic. A real asset to the company.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Pack light - you can wash your shirts and shorts along the way. Leave your laptop at home and relax.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would do a trip like this again in a heartbeat and would highly recommend it to anyone with a spirit of adventure.

This sets the bar high...!

My first trip to Italy & my first group holiday; I'm very well travelled but had several reservations about an 'organised group tour' - all my concerns vanished quickly - this is a superb trip with a brilliant guide and I'd have NO reservations about recommending it. Just come prepared for some tough climbs! Hard cycling, views I'll never forget, delicious food particularly the first few days with lovely local suppliers sharing their produce, the insights into the life and culture of the region, stunning medieval villages, and most of all - great variety from the quiet pace of life, empty roads and warm welcome of the local people around gentle Cilento to the hectic & dramatic Amalfi coast - it just has it all!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were so many...but the exhilerating coastal roads around Amalfi that wind like ribbons around impossibly high cliffs, sheer drops over perfect crystal water & picture perfect towns.....from lung-busting climbs to absurdly exciting decents, there were so many moments of jaw-dropping beauty & excitement around here, I hardly know where to start!

What did you think of your group leader?

We all felt so lucky to have Paolo as our group leader; he shared so much knowledge, interest, a genuine passion for the local people, the hidden corners and the changing lifestyle of the region. He helped us feel confident and safe on the challenging roads around Amalfi, and to discover and enjoy the incredible and - to most of us - completely unknown region of Cilento. He was good fun, has a dry sense of humour, was always there for us and nothing seemed too much trouble. He helped me with my travel plans at the end of the trip, and shared great advice for my time in Naples. A total star!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This trip is down as moderate, but most of us agreed it was challenging at times. The distances were manageable but the inclines - wow! The first and last day were intense - it shouldn't put anyone off, but worth knowing and if you can, get lots of hill training - we did several days with over 4000ft of inclines each. It's absolutely worth it though...I've fallen in love with this entire region of Italy and for all the pain of getting to those incredible heights, the views are unfortgettable and will stay with me forever. Only other advice - take mossie spray, they are vicious, and bite day & night if you're not covered!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This trip has inspired me - spending time with a group of fantastic, like-minded people is a wonderful way to travel, and being with an experienced, kind and knowledgeable guide takes a lot of the strain away. The only way to find out if this kind of trip is for you is to dive in, and I'm SO glad i did!

Cycle Cliento and the Amalfi Coast

This was a stunning cycle ride. The scenery was fantastic, the people very friendly and the food was delicious. We had a really friendly and supportive group and Paulo, Sara and Giovanni provided excellent leadership and support throughout. I think the rating as "moderate" was a little off the mark - unless you were fit and had some experience of challenging hills it may pose a tough challenge, particularly in the Italian heat. The accommodation was good throughout (although the farm residence was disappointing at breakfast with limited choice). During our lunch stops the food and value for money were excellent.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Strangely enough on one of our days "off" I made the trip to Capri and could look back on the coastline to see the amazing terrain (which we did successfully cycle!) - a real sense of achievement. The group was inspirational too with much humour and support when needed.

What did you think of your group leader?

Paulo did an excellent job , managing each day in a professional and supporting way. He made sure everybody was looked after and gave excellent advice for our times in built up areas. His announcement on the transfer from the airport (a long 3 hours!) was that we needed to forget two words this week - flat (Amalfi was not flat at all) and diet (there was no point in worrying about diets with such marvellous food) stay in my mind.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you are fit enough for the ride. Practice those hills before you arrive so you can manage the often steady climbs in the heat.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

In terms of experience it was one of the best bike rides I've had with great leadership and support and a very nice group of fellow riders

Almalfi Coast

Excellent staff and support. Fantastic views, riding and lunches!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The ride is in parts challenging which suited me. My wife is not such a strong rider and the support was excellent. From Salerno she was offer an electric bike which greatly assisted for the ride to Sorrento and back to Minori.

What did you think of your group leader?

Parlo was obliging and very well informed with points of interest en route.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is a must do ride!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Some meals could be improved. Breakfast in particular could have been better, Kings and the Farm house were fairly basic. Some dinners were a bit ordinary. This would not stop me from doing another ride with Exodus....we had a great time.

Good holiday for sea views!

Really good trip with just the right mix of cycling & sightseeing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cilento region was my favourite for cycling, just as picturesque as Amalfi coast but MUCH less crowded & touristy, with safer roads!

What did you think of your group leader?

Paolo was very friendly & efficient, well organised & with good local knowledge. Special mention also to Rafael, our backup driver & mechanic who would magically appear whenever needed, always on hand with water or bike sorting skills.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Bring good waterproofs! I only had a light jacket with me thinking Italy doesn't get rain like at home, but a couple of downpours convinced me otherwise (although this trip was quite late in the year).

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling Amalfi coast is not for the faint hearted! Was a bit scary even as a fairly confident cyclist. Cilento region was much better for cycling in my opinion, Amalfi coast much better suited to travelling by boat. But still v scenic.

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

Enjoyable trip despite some of the accommodation.Accommodation and food for first 2 nights was appalling - 3rd night was uncomfortable. Will be going on other cycling trips but probably not with Exodus.  

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter Hoogstaden was fantastic.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We loved the trip, the people and the 'last supper' to the restaurant in the cove which was a highlight.

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

Although I had previously visited this area I had never cycled here. This was a fabulous experience through some lovely countryside and dramatic coastal scenery. It was made even more enjoyable by the superb enthusiastic group!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The ride along the Amalfi Coast towards Positano was one of the most spectacular stretches of road that I have ever ridden on with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. There were plenty of short climbs but the views helped to take my mind off this, particularly looking across to the island of Capri. One evening we took a boat from Amalfi to an isolated beach restaurant. The food was excellent and the whole thing was a unique experience which rounded off the week nicely.

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter was excellent. He was very friendly and helpful and quickly became part of the group. He had excellent local knowledge having lived in the area for 17 years and he took the opportunity to show us a few of his favourite little secrets along the way. These were a very pleasant surprise.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We had one very wet day which was a surprise at this time of year, so don't forget a lightweight waterproof jacket. That said, the rest of the week had fantastic weather and was an ideal temperature for cycling. Try and find the energy for the optional extra climbs, as the scenery is excellent from these and it felt rewarding to complete them.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would definitely recommend this trip, not only for the spectacular cycling but for a great insight into Southern Italian culture.

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

This was my first cycling holiday and I wasn't disappointed. The hills were sometimes daunting but it was a buzz when I got to the top. Hotels were fine, although the food was not good in the first one. Cilento is chilled out biking with hills and the Amalfi coast is more dramatic (scenery and traffic!- someone did describe it as millionaire's cycling). I really enjoyed the trip, I was pleased with Exodus, but the main thing was we were fortunate enough to have a fab group dynamic. If I was marking that alone, I'd give it five stars!  

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

That would be when one of the group arrived at the top of a hill on the last day after really struggling with the cycling for the first few days. It was great to see his improved fitness and high spirits - there is no beach in the world that could do that.

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter was great, shhhhimply couldn't wish for more.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you're a cycling holiday virgin like I was, just give it a go!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The fab thing about a cycling holiday in Italy is that you can eat the pasta and pizza and still come home a few pounds lighter! 

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI COAST

Cycling the Cilento and Amalfi coast was beautiful , challenging and thoroughly enjoyable. Our guides Paolo and Giovanni did an excellent job of taking care of us in every possible way. The food was magnificent and the accommodation was great. Cycling was very difficult in parts, there was some very steep sections, but we always stopped and recovered. A great trip with a great group of people, I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves to jump on a bike.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting to the top of the biggest climb and just enjoying the rugged beauty of the place. Cycling along the beautiful Amalfi coast road, with all it's winding and up's and down's.

What did you think of your group leader?

Paolo our group leader was always informative and helpful. He was a calming influence and always made you feel safe on the road. He has a passion for the beauty and history of the coast, without overdoing it.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you are a casual bike rider who is up for a challenge do it. It is a beautiful part of the world.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I highly recommend it!

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

Amalfi coast is one of the most dramatic coastline in the world and this well organised Exodus Trip will guide you on bike along the coastal road all the way to the end (Termini). There are great do-able climbs, long descents, fantastic scenery, great food, great temples and most beautiful gardens - i.e. just about perfect!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The coast ride from Amalfi and seeing Positano after a climb was amazing. If you love long fast descent, then the descent into Maiori is something that will you will not forget.

What did you think of your group leader?

Lieven is highly organised and easy going. He always managed to get us to great cafe stops (and I love those nice Italian Expresso); great little village lunch stops (which he will guide us on little walks round those pretty, narrow steep streets) and his archaelogy training really came to its own when he guided us round Paestum. He even spent the free day with us on a walk from Ravello down to Amalfi and visited the most perfect Italian Gardens which was most memorable. He is also a great cyclist and can outclimb all of us!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We had great weather in June but did have an occasional shower so don't forget your waterproof (that the van can carry for you and you may not need to use at all). The bikes are good and modern but I like having my own SPD pedals and saddles which are very quick to fit. Oh - and don't forget that right hand brake lever operate the rear brakes rather than the front brakes (as in the UK).

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We were blessed with nice weather, nice group of people and the most fantastic scenery. The most surprising thing was the patience of the Italian drivers. They are actually quite used to bikes and will pass you safely or wait patiently so we always feel quite safe and didn't have any problems at all which was quite refreshing.

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

This is my third trip with Exodus and it was well organised as usual.  It was great combining sight seeing with fantastic cycling routes along the coast with stunning views all the way through.  Topped it up with some relaxing moments sampling Italian food and drink with a superb guide and fellow riders. Fabulous!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Quite eyeopening to share the narrow windy roads with some rather skillful drivers who were actually quite friendly despite my previous impression of mad Italian drivers. Also findig out that our super fit cycling guide Lieven is a professional archaeologist who turned out to be our guide to the ancient Greek Temples at Paestum and our volunteered walking tour guide on our free day!  

What did you think of your group leader?

Absolutely fantastic - knowledgeable and responsible. He looked after us in all aspects in great detail -interpreter, menu translator, mechanics, navigator, road marker, shopper, tour guide for historic sights, gardens and even trekking guide for free.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Accept there are ups and downs and that is the price to pay for beautiful scenery. Worth bringing your own snacks as you may not get what you are used to but no shortage of nice coffee and smooth icecream of you are fine with those. The bike condition is good so it is not a big deal if you dont bring your own saddle or pedal but worth doing so to give you the extra comfort. Waterproof is important as weather around hills and coast is unpredictable.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A very interesting route indeed and we were very lucky to have some good weather, superb guide and some very witty fellow riders too.

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

This trip was a wonderful mixture of cycling in a stunningly beautiful part of the world together with time to enjoy the sights and also Italian cuisine/coffee/amazing ice creams plus to swim in the sea/pools.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling the Amalfi coast road particularly as the sun was setting behind us and the lights of Positano were appearing and twinkling.

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter is a superb leader who balanced the responsibilities of leadership really well. He is very knowledgable and informative about the history, geography and culture of the area plus able to find and negotiate tradional food at unbelieveably good prices.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Bring your swimming costume. If coming in the summer months expect it to be HOT. Even in late Sept the hill climbs were pretty hot and it was a relief to jump into the sea or pool at the end of the day.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Fantastic trip, just do it!

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

A great cycling holiday packing in decent cycling, spectacular coastal routes, swimming opportunities good food and lovely accommodation.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were lots. Just being on a bike in beautiful surroundings. Rounding a bend and to see yet another spectacular view. Making that last push before lunch and being rewarded with a delicious meal eaten outside on lovely terrace in an out-of-the-way trattoria. Swimming at a hotel's own beach at the end of long day's cycling. Climbing the steps up to Ravello and seeing Amalfi below us. Eating breakfast on the terrace above Amalfi's town square with the church's bells pealing. Being able to wander around classic ruins in Paestum without crowds or tour guides.

What did you think of your group leader?

Peter was an absolutely fantastic group leader. From the moment he picked the group up at the airport to seeing us off very early on our day of our departure Peter really looked after us all. He was kind, knowledgeable and interesting. He paced the rides just right for everyone's ability and factored in plenty of coffee and ice cream stops. Peter knew some great places to eat and to swim and had obviously planned and researched the rides really thoroughly - he made sure that we all got the very most out of the holiday, without rushing us and was always good humoured.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you like having your stuff with you, consider taking along a panier or handlebar bag  - the bikes we were supplied with had a rack for this purpose. The support vehicle was always close so people, if they wanted, could put stuff in it and get to it pretty frequently. Water was available both from the van and from fountains in villages we stopped at along the way. Padded cycling shorts are worth taking along  - even if you're a regular cyclist.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The roads do get a little bit more busy when you get to the Amalfi coast, but you are rewarded with spectacular views. We found cars drivers and motorcyclists to be patient and considerate wherever we cycled. Consider taking the steps up through Pontone and then on up to Ravello on your free day - it's steep, but satisfying.

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

My partner Paul and I had a fantastic time on this cycling holiday. The group are still exchanging photos several weeks after returning home and it is lovely to see all those smiling faces each time. The cycling, company, accomodation and food were all spectacular. Thanks again to our cycle guide Peter for his enthusiastic and inclusive approach. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling in it, is a lovely way to discover more about  a country

What did you think of your group leader?

He was great. Really went beyond the call of duty to make us all welcome and to get to know the local areas. As well as the cycling he had much to tell us about the history, culture and food of each area we cycled to. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just enjoy yourselves. Join in with the group, you will want to anyway.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

This is my (our) 3rd Exodus Cycling Holiday, all of which ( Cuba and Turkey) we have enjoyed immensely but this was truly great at every level other than my personal fitness which did of cours improve. A great ( low cost0 region,an individual knowledgeable committed leader and surprise surprise top quality accomdation. The fellow cyclists were all brilliant.However the brochures promise that there was an optional ride on the last day which was not realisable. This was misleading and I would have enjoyed a leg stretch of some type. Its all about money I know as our leader explained and we had plenty of value in the holiday but it is good to be clear and accurate which I believe our understanding was not

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

1. Looking from our balcony straight into Amalfi cathedral staircase and 3rd century Constinople doorway. Priceless! timeless!  2. Finding my wife (again). 

What did you think of your group leader?

Outstanding. Dutchman totally in touch with southern Italy and the Cilento in particular, personally involved. Mother hen, good fun who understood the balence between riding all day and stopping by great places. Where can you get 2.5 course lunch with wines and liqueurs overlooking the most beautiful bay for 7 Euros. line up an I will you.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Mug up on greeco Romano heritage.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

There are 2 cycling bits. The cilento, open car free cheap, great hotels off season. great Amalfi experience of a fabulous corniche, close ars but all in control (I think). Extroadinary light, sea, sky. felt we had a bargain.

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

An excellent week, despite some torrential rain on 3 of the days.  The timetable had enough flexibility to accommodate changes of plan and Lieven the guide kept us motivated throughout the long climbs.  Hard work was rewarded with spectacular views and wonderful photo opportunities. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting to the top of some relentless cimbs still on my bike.  If I had seen the climb beforehand, I might not have believed that I could do it!  The blues and turquoises of the sea at different points was amazing.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent.  Very responsive to changes in weather and very conscious of safety on wet, slippery roads and busy traffic areas.  Bonded really well with the group and was a mine of local information.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Train well and go looking for some hills to climb before you depart as there are some long switchback climbs.  Having said that the bikes are very good and you will eventually grind your way up there if you are not so fit.  Just more enjoyable to stick with the group.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Salerno to Amalfi trip could start earlier on in the day to accommodate changes in weather.  The buffalo mozzarella farm visit was ok and could probably be tagged onto the previous day.  We didn't ride at all on the transfer day which I was very grateful for as the conditions were treacherous. 

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

Stunning scenery, knowleagable guide and the only way (apart from walking which would take a lot longer) to see Southern Italy.  Weather was disappointing but the guide used his experience and knowledge of the area to take appropriate decisions regarding safety and overall enjoyment of the holiday.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The incredible experience of witnessing the stunning views around every corner, including the sounds and smells of the countryside (herbs, flowers and fruit) which cannot be experienced in a car.   Also the high quality (and quantity) of the local food and wine which were incredibly good value in an area that I thought would be expensive.

What did you think of your group leader?

Lievan acted as the perfect guide as well as translator and local area expert on this trip (with the advantage of him being an archeologist).  His calm, professional approach and knowledge of the area gave us information/history that lazy people like myself would have had to research to find and also provided much needed breaks on those uphill climbs to point out a landmark or places of interest!!  Lieven was great company during the trip and his support in time of need (searching for medical attention on a bank holiday and acting as interpretor) was very much appreciated.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for the uphill climbs (take your spds/cycling shoes to take the strain off your quads) and make sure you are experienced in cycling on busy roads as it can be quite nerve racking when a coach comes round one of those tight bends in front of/behind you. The first morning included a challenging 10kms climb in the rain!!  The other days also consisted of several climbs (or 'small inclines' as described by our guide).  A good level of fitness is required to keep together as a group, however, the back up van is always close by to assist if necessary. Make sure you take adequate layers/warm weather clothes (chilly in the evening) and waterproof jacket for cycling and sightseeing as we did experience a high level of rain on our particular trip.     

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don't expect five star hotels.  The hotels were very basic and at best 3*.  No baths (except on the first night when we were upgraded due to the hotel being empty), no duvets only sheets and one blanket (we had to request heating and extra blankets to take the chill/damp feeling off the room.   Also make sure your bags are easy to transport and not too heavy as there are no porters and you will be expected to climb the stairs with your bags and transfer them to the van.  Having said that due to an injury (fall on the first day) I personally got help from a couple of knights in shining armour!!