ASHEVILLE SELF-GUIDED BIKE TOUR - Trek Travel
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Asheville Self-Guided Bike Tour
EXPLORER | 5 DAYS, 4 NIGHTS
TREKTRAVEL.COM | 866-464-8735
ASHEVILLE SELF-GUIDED BIKE
TOUR
THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY AND THE SOUTHERN
APPALACHIANS
From
In the mountains of western North Carolina, you will find the highest peak $1899
east of the Mississippi, ancient rivers, breathtaking views, waterfalls, and
Rider Type
incredibly scenic roads. On our Asheville self-guided bike tour, ride the Blue Active
Ridge Parkway and take in views of the Craggy, Balsam, and the Black
Hotel Style
Mountains rising in blue waves to the edge of the horizon. There is a strong
Explorer
sense of history and place here that can be heard in old-time bluegrass
music and tasted in treasured recipes. This beautiful outdoor playground is Duration
5 days | 4 nights
yours to discover at your own pace with plenty time to visit some of the
many craft breweries and upscale restaurants that Asheville is known for, Start | End
as well as time to pursue other outdoor activities that the region offers. So Asheville, North Carolina
kick back and take in the eclectic vibe of this great region, enjoy great Dates
hand-selected cycling routes and a fantastic downtown hotel on this self- Dates Coming Soon
guided bicycling vacation that you can make your very own! Book your trip
with confidence »
Learn if a self-guided trip is right for you »
TRIP WOWS
Relax at The Foundry, a stylish boutique hotel in a restored steel foundry in one of downtown's historic
neighborhoods
Ride fantastic routes that take you through pastoral landscapes, some of Asheville's most beautiful and historic
neighborhoods, and along the ancient French Broad River
Take in stunning views of the southern Appalachians from a number of viewpoints along the world famous Blue
Ridge Parkway
Sample the wares at some of Asheville's famous South Slope breweries, located within walking distance of your
hotel
Treat yourself to the inventive, Southern-inspired dishes born from Asheville's robust farm-to-table culinary scene at
some of the many upscale restaurants located downtown
DAILY ITINERARY
2021
TODAY'S RIDE:
Day Marshall to Asheville
Approximately 30 miles with 2,300
feet of climbing
1
DESCRIPTION:
Your Trek Travel guide will meet you at The Foundry Hotel at 11:00 AM. Feel free to wear your street clothes but bring
along your cycling clothes and anything you will need for the day’s ride like personal pedals, saddles, GPS units, etc. You
may bring along a daybag for the first portion of the day, as your guide can drop this off for you at the hotel after lunch (the
remainder of your luggage will be stored at the hotel until check-in). After lunch at a local café and an overview of the week
ahead, you will change into your cycling gear then take a 30-minute shuttle to the small community of Marshall, which is
situated on the banks of the French Broad River. Here your guide will fit you to your Trek bike and make sure you are well
prepared for the week ahead. Then you'll head out on today's ride, which follows the French Broad before crossing into the
communities west of the river and eventually ending in downtown Asheville, your home for the next four nights. Take some
time to settle in then enjoy dinner at one of the many exciting restaurants within a short walk of your hotel.
HOTEL:
The Foundry Hotel INCLUDED MEALS:
VISIT WEBSITE LunchTODAY'S RIDE: AVID OPTION:
Day Leicester Loop
Approximately 32 miles and 2,360
Leicester Extended Loop
Approximately 43 miles with 3,450
feet of climbing feet of climbing
2
DESCRIPTION:
This morning, enjoy a delicious breakfast of Appalachian-inspired soul food at Benne on Eagle before heading out on a ride
through the community of Leicester, located to the northwest of Asheville. This ride offers short climbs through rolling
hills and beautiful farmland. Those who want to add more to their day can choose the extended loop to tack on 11 more
miles and about 1,100 feet more climbing. After the morning ride, grab lunch at one of the downtown cafes then take some
time to engage in one of the many off the bike experiences available in this engaging town. Visit the Biltmore Estate, take a
historic trolley tour, visit the Sauna House or the historic Grove Park Inn, take a whitewater rafting trip or go for a hike
(cost and transportation to and from these activities is not included in the price of your trip). Afterward enjoy dinner of your
choice at one of the many fantastic recommended eateries.
HOTEL:
The Foundry Hotel INCLUDED MEALS:
VISIT WEBSITE Breakfast
TODAY'S RIDE: SHORT OPTION:
Day Crag g y Pinnacle R eturn
Approximately 44 miles with 4,690
Lane Pinnacle R eturn
Approximately 28 miles with 2,970
feet of climbing feet of climbing
3
DESCRIPTION:
Amazing riding awaits you today on the famed Blue Ridge Parkway. The route begins on the many switchbacks of Town
Mountain as you climb out of town and drop onto the Parkway at Craven Gap. From here, it's either a four or 13-mile climb
on mostly gentle grades, punctuated by panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as you make your way to either the
Lane Pinnacle Overlook or the Craggy Gardens area. In late May and early June, the Catawba rhododendron that covers the
pinnacles show off their stunning pink and purple blooms. In the early fall, the foliage begins its colorful display at this
elevation of about 5,500 feet. After descending back to town (as you guessed, it's mostly downhill!), take some time to
explore more of Asheville. You may choose to browse the offerings of the many unique shops, galleries, and the vibrant
street scene that Asheville is known for. Or you may opt to explore some of the South Slope breweries located within easy
walking distance of the hotel. Whatever your day holds, you are on your own for dinner this evening, with the impressive
array of downtown options just a short walk away.
HOTEL:
The Foundry Hotel INCLUDED MEALS:
VISIT WEBSITE Breakfast
TODAY'S RIDE:
Day Asheville to Sierra Nevada
B rewery R eturn
Approximately 53 miles with 4,100
feet of climbing
4 DESCRIPTION:
Head out of Asheville through the beautiful and secluded Biltmore Forest neighborhood before riding a stretch of the Blue
Ridge Parkway on your way to the Sierra Nevada Brewery in Mills River. Here you can take a self-guided tour of this
impressive brewery and enjoy some samples of the numerous beers on tap and a lunch of chef-driven dishes that feature
farm-to-table ingredients. Your return to Asheville traces a similar path. This evening, after a big day of riding, enjoy a final
dinner of your choice in downtown Asheville. With so many acclaimed options to choose from it's easy to make it a
special evening to celebrate your Asheville self-guided bike tour.
HOTEL:
The Foundry Hotel INCLUDED MEALS:
VISIT WEBSITE BreakfastTODAY'S RIDE:
Day Elk Mountain Local's Loop
Approximately 20 miles with 2,320
feet of climbing
5
DESCRIPTION:
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, spin out past the historic Grove Park Inn to tackle a local’s favorite climb up Elk
Mountain. This five-mile climb, which varies in grade but finishes with a lung-busting pitch that reaches 12%, showcases
great views into the Reems Creek and Beaverdam Valleys. Take a moment to check out the view from Buzzard Rock at the
top—you earned it! After a few quick final miles on the Blue Ridge Parkway, your ride finishes with a fun descent down
Town Mountain Road into downtown Asheville. Alternatively take this morning to sleep in and grab a coffee at one of the
many locally owned coffee shops downtown or pick up some last minute gifts before checkout.
HOTEL:
The Foundry Hotel INCLUDED MEALS:
VISIT WEBSITE Breakfast
WHAT'S INCLUDED
For us, the details matter most
Every moment of a Trek Travel self-guided bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More romance. More scenery.
More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you
create more memories.
What's Included
• Four nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
• Daily breakfast
• Day 1 lunch with the guide
• Daily lunch and dinner recommendations
• Ride a Trek Domane SL 7 disc or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+
• Up to three daily route options on riding days
• Trek Travel water bottles to keep
• Each bike is equipped with a flat pack, frame pump, phone mount, front and rear lights
• Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
• Bontrager saddle (we suggest you bring your own for the most comfortable fit)
• Shimano clipless pedals or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
• All luggage transfers during your trip
• A bike lock, all necessary chargers and a floor pump
• Bike fit on the first day to help you find your optimal position for comfort, with recreational or avid set-up along with saddle
preference
• Ride With GPS app on your phone to navigate and get all the information you need on your self-guided adventure
• Optional daily phone or video call with the guide to prep you for the next day’s adventure
• Support on the ground in case of emergency
Gear
• Trek Domane SL 7 disc carbon road bike with Shimano Di2 electronic shifting or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, available in a limited
quantity
• Trek Travel water bottles to keep
• Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
• Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
• Bontrager men's and women's specific saddles
• Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
• Each bike is equipped with a flat pack, frame pump and phone mount
• A bike lock, all necessary chargers, and a floor pump
• Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Your coupon will be delivered via email prior to your trip.
• For the most comfortable ride, you may choose to bring your own pedals, saddle, and helmet on the trip. Your guides will install
your gear on the first day during your bike fit.
THANK YOUR GUIDE, BY TIPPING
Gratuities for your Trek Travel guide are not included in your trip price. We recommend tipping 7.5-10% of your trip price, preferably
in the local currency. Please tip your guide at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care, and service.
What’s Not Included• Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations
• Lodging before and after the trip
• Personal items purchased during the trip
• Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
• While we provide daily breakfast and one lunch, the other meals are not included. On self-guided trips, Trek Travel provides
restaurant recommendations and invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.
HOTELS
THE FOUNDRY HOTEL
ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
Situated in the historic community
known as "The Block," just a five-
minute walk from downtown
Asheville, The Foundry Hotel is a
truly unique boutique hotel. The
property is a restoration of one of the
cities' earliest steel foundries. It is
comprised of three original buildings
and two newly constructed ones that
seamlessly blend modern luxury with
the everlasting charm of the original
structures. Recently added to the U.S.
National Registry of Historic Places,
The Foundry features an enclave-like
campus with a central courtyard that
offers a peaceful space just steps
from the heart of all that Asheville
has to offer. The onsite restaurant,
Benne on Eagle, is led by 2019 Eater
Young Gun Chef Ashleigh Shanti,
and the Workshop Lounge (housed in
the former workshop of the steel
foundry) is a luxurious and spacious
place to relax with a craft cocktail.
MEETING &
DEPARTING
How To Get There Meeting Time And Location
We suggest that you arrive at least Your Trek Travel guide will meet you at The Foundry Hotel at 11:00 AM. Feel free
one day before the start of your to wear your street clothes but bring along your cycling clothes and anything you
Asheville self-guided bike tour, which will need for the day’s ride like personal pedals, saddles, GPS units, etc. You may
will enable you to adjust to the time bring along a daybag for the first portion of the day, as your guide can drop this
zone and minimize the risk of off for you at the hotel after lunch (the remainder of your luggage will be stored at
missing the trip start due to flight- the hotel until check-in). After lunch at a local café and an overview of the week
related delays. We recommend that ahead, you will change into your cycling gear then take a 30-minute shuttle to the
you fly into Asheville Regional Airport small community of Marshall, which is situated on the banks of the French Broad
(AVL). Delta, United, American, River. Here your guide will fit you to your Trek bike and make sure you are well
Allegiant plus several smaller airlines prepared for the week ahead. You'll then head out on your bike to ride back toservice this airport. Asheville.
From the airport, you can call or hail If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform
a taxi to take you downtown. It is your guide. You will receive an email a week before the trip starts with his or her
approximately 15 miles from the name and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, The
airport to the meeting day hotel in Foundry Hotel (828-552-8545), and leave a message with your expected arrival
downtown Asheville, and a taxi ride time and contact details.
should take about 20-25 minutes and
cost $40 to $50. We recommend
Diamond Executive Car
Transportation (828-281-8139) or Departing Time And Location
Marvels Upscale Transportation
(828-280-1698; Your Trek Travel guide will meet you at 11:00 AM at the Foundry Hotel to collect
www.marvelstransofnc.com) for your bike and equipment. From here you may choose to extend your stay in the
your in-town transportation needs. area or secure a taxi back to the Asheville Regional Airport. We recommend
contacting Diamond Executive Car Transportation (828-281-8139) or Marvels
Upscale Transportation (828-280-1698; www.marvelstransofnc.com) for your
transportation needs.
THE FOUNDRY HOTEL
Before & After: Asheville, Situated in the historic community known as "The Block," just a five-minute walk
from downtown Asheville, The Foundry Hotel is a truly unique boutique hotel. The
North Carolina property is a restoration of one of the cities' earliest steel foundries. It is
comprised of three original buildings and two newly constructed ones that
The mountain town of Asheville, seamlessly blend modern luxury with the everlasting charm of the original
North Carolina, is truly a unique place structures. Recently added to the U.S. National Registry of Historic Places, The
in the southeast, and we highly Foundry features an enclave-like campus with a central courtyard that offers a
recommend taking a day or two peaceful space just steps from the heart of all that Asheville has to offer. The
before or after your trip to see what it onsite restaurant, Benne on Eagle, is led by 2019 Eater Young Gun Chef Ashleigh
has to offer. With an active Shanti, and the Workshop Lounge (housed in the former workshop of the steel
community of artists, musicians, and foundry) is a luxurious and spacious place to relax with a craft cocktail. The
entrepreneurs, this engaging and Foundry is also the meeting location on the first morning of your trip and the hotel
eclectic town has a creative spirit where you will spend all four nights of your trip. Ask your Trip Consultant for the
and energy that visitors immediately best number to call for a discounted rate for your pre- or post-night stay.
sense. In spring, summer, and fall, a
walk through downtown’s many www.foundryasheville.com | ~$300
small shops and galleries takes you
past street musicians and through an THE INN ON BILTMORE ESTATE
array of enticing smells drifting out
of the open doors of local cafes. Located on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate, this luxury property offers the
Enjoy the farmer’s markets, the many closest accommodations to the largest privately-owned home in the United
yoga studios, restaurants, and States: the Biltmore House (the more recently constructed Village Hotel, located
outdoor concerts. Also, there are near the Inn in the Antler Hill Village area, offers a more affordable lodging option
opportunities for whitewater rafting, on the Estate). The refined rooms of the Inn have luxe furnishings, WiFi, flat-
mountain biking, hiking, fly fishing, screen TVs and 24-hour room service, while the 8,000-acre grounds include hiking
rock climbing, and pretty much any and biking trails, a winery, and bike shop. It's the perfect place to relax and spend
other outdoor activity imaginable a day wandering a destination that's quintessentially Asheville. Amenities also
within a short drive of downtown. We include a gourmet restaurant, a bar, and a library lounge serving light fare.
recommend the following
accommodations for your pre and www.biltmore.com/stay/inn | ~$475
post-trip hotel.
AC HOTEL DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE
The AC Hotel Downtown Asheville is located just steps away from Pack Square, in
the heart of downtown. The hotel features a large rooftop bar and tapas
restaurant, Capella on 9. Kick back with a craft cocktail and take in the great
mountain views. The sleek, simple design of this hotel provides a relaxing,
modern vibe in a location that is walkable to all of downtown's great restaurants
and shops.
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/avlac-ac-hotel-asheville-downtown/ | ~$400
* Hotels listed above are local properties we love. We do not have special rates available.FAQS
What Are The Daily Rides What are the options for a non-rider travel companion?
Like?
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take
• Rider Type | 3 - Active the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the
saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please
• Average Daily Mileage | 36
contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in
• Terrain | Mountainous the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in
• Average Daily Elevation | 3,154 feet the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
• Total Miles | 179
• Total Elevation | 15,770 feet • Explore the many shops, galleries, and restaurants in downtown Asheville
• Schedule a spa appointment
Averages and totals are calculated • Visit the studios and galleries of the River Arts District
from our "Today’s Ride" options. • Take a historic trolley tour through Asheville
The terrain in western North Carolina • Explore South Slope breweries such as Burial Beer Company, Hi-Wire Brewing,
is mountainous, and the rides feature and Greenman Brewing on a self-guided walking tour from your downtown
an average of about 88 feet of Asheville hotel
elevation gain per mile. Our Asheville • Visit the Biltmore Estate
self-guided bike tour is best suited • Visit the Sauna House for a nordic-style bathhouse experience with a hot sauna
for our Type 3 Riders. Those who and cold plunge cool
wish to ride every mile but are
concerned about their physical ability
may want to try our electric bike Trip Changes
option–you still get a workout but
can climb alongside even the See Itinerary for specific daily ride distances and elevation options. On all of our
strongest rider. Type 4 Riders will vacations, Trek Travel seeks to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to
enjoy the extra mileage and climbing experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Our itineraries
the avid route options offer. are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer every guest a
vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times, routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed
here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip
experience.You can also read
