coastal all-road retreat
At the confluence of land and sea along California’s western edge, exists an area with extraordinary character. The landscape, geography and scale of the North Coast invite riders to indulge in a truly unique cycling experience. It’s small coastal communities of Fort Bragg and Mendocino are seemingly trapped in time, where the clock spins a little slower regardless of how fast you pedal your bike. Here, New England charm and architecture merge with a laid-back western lifestyle with roots entwined in logging and fishing. You’ll explore a diverse array of gravel routes that stitch together old growth redwood forests with the shoreline of the Pacific in a region that has quickly become one of our favorite’s in America.
Join our Coastal All-Road Retreat and see for yourself just how magical the North Coast of California truly is. Featuring daily rides that are certain to excite the senses, call upon your muscles and rejuvenate the spirit, there’s no shortage of options to nourish any cyclist’s soul. There’s more to this trip than the riding, however, and opportunities to kayak, hike and stroll the small towns will round out your afternoons. You’ll seamlessly reconnect with the earth, partake in some of the finest gravel cycling on the planet, and have the chance to enjoy local cuisine, culture and camaraderie.
OVERVIEW
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START & END LOCATION: SANTA ROSA, CA
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TRIP LENGTH: 5 DAYS
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LODGING: HOTELS
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INTENSITY INDEX (click for details)
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AEROBIC - BLUE , TECHNICAL - BLUE, OVERALL - BLUE
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GROUP SIZE: 5 - 12
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$2,850 PER PERSON
Dates
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June 16 - 20, 2024
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September 29 - October 3, 2024
Individual Departure Color Key (above listed dates will be colored as follows)
Black= Date confirmed, no sign ups. TOUR OPEN = seats booked, minimum not yet met. TOUR ON! = tour is a go, minimum has been met. SOLD OUT = tour is full, rider maximum met
Itinerary
DAY ONE
The tour begins with a morning pickup of guests and gear in Santa Rosa. We’ll travel just over an hour north to Willits and set up for our first venture into the woods on bike. A nice warm-up on pavement allows us to stretch the legs out before we transition to dirt for a journey towards the coast. The forest landscape evolves as we make our way west, as the mighty giants – the coastal redwoods - welcome you with open arms. Emerging into Fort Bragg, you’ll find yourself listening to crashing waves while enjoying a cold pint en route to our base camp for the week. Get settled and sorted before a welcome dinner at one of the finest spots in town.
ride details: 42 miles & 3,700' climbing
DAY TWO
Take a stroll along the coast from the front door this morning while we wait for the temps to climb. Today’s two-wheeled objective is an excellent circuit that starts with a coastal cruise into the town of Mendocino. Ushered in by the sights and sounds of waves along the coastal bluffs, you’ll want to enjoy a coffee alongside the tranquil vibe that resonates from the eclectic mix of bourgeois and bohemian. You’ll then point your wheels inland and ride into the heart of the Mendocino Wooodlands. Enjoy quiet climbs on stunning logging roads and even some simgletrack for the adventurous. This afternoon we’ll pay a visit to the Mendocino Botanical gardens to experience their impressive assortment of colorful coastal flora before another group dinner enjoyed in town with your guides.
ride details: 23 - 44 miles & 1,100'-3,100' climbing
DAY THREE
We’ve got the biggest ride up for grabs today, but you’ll be well looked after by your guides to ensure you can comfortably tackle as much of it as you desire. A lovely mix of tarmac and dirt encompass this remote all-road adventure around the Jackson Demonstration State Forest. From wide, graded logging roads to creekside singletrack, you’ll see it all. The mid-ride picnic is sure to put some life back into the legs before the return to Fort Bragg. Dinner tonight is on your own, so choose what cuisine calls to you and refuel after your heroic effort.
ride details: 50 - 72 miles & 4,500'-7,700' climbing
DAY FOUR
Another day and another dose of that delicious dirt awaits. You’ll set out and explore Hare Creek and Little Valley by bike on this tranquil and quiet loop that explores some unique ecological zones. Returning to the coast, you’ll have a chance to stop by Glass Beach and see what the erosive forces of nature can do. The afternoon can be spent basking in the sun on the beach or on a canoe as you paddle up the Big River, one of California’s most ecologically diverse estuaries. Or take time to do some additional strolling in Mendocino & Fort Bragg. This evening your guides will host one final meal at the choicest spot in town.
ride details: 40 miles & 2,700' climbing
DAY FIVE
For those interested in a final ride, we’ve got a nice spin planned this morning before returning to pack up our things. We will stop for lunch before making the return trek to Santa Rosa, where you’ll bid the team farewell and continue on your own way.
ride details: 28 miles & 2,600' climbing
Lodging
Harbor Lite Lodge, Fort Bragg - 4 nights of double occupancy lodging (single rooms available)
Pricing
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$2,850 per person (+ $360 single room supplement)
Details
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Seasons
o For private departures, the above sample itinerary can be generally offered May - October, when the weather is most ideal for riding. Contact us to arrange a private or customized Coastal All-Road Retreat around your preferred dates
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Inclusions
o Guided & fully-supported rides
o Professional expertise and regional knowledge of 2 cycling guides
o 4-nights accommodations (double occupancy)
o Ground transportation during the trip in our air-conditioned passenger van
o 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners
o Daily ride nutrition (bars, gels, powders, fruits & snacks)
o Post ride drinks
o Mechanical support of your bicycle throughout the duration of the tour
o Park entry fees, permits and activities listed in the itinerary
o Pre- and post-tour transport from/to Santa Rosa
o Dirt Gypsy Adventures t-shirt, socks and cycling cap
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Exclusions
o Bicycle rental (carbon gravel bikes can be added for an additional $250)
o Airfare
o Travel costs to/from trip start
o Pre/post trip lodging
o Travel insurance
o Personal purchases
o Passport / travel Visa requirements
o 1 dinner
o Alcoholic beverages with meals
o Guide gratuities
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Getting Here
o Trip begins and ends in Santa Rosa at a central location
o Charles M. Schulz - Sonoma County Airport (STS) is the closest airport with flights serving areas across the nation. San Francisco Airport (SFO) is the closest international airport.
o Pre and post tour lodging available at a variety of hotels in the surrounding area
o You will receive a comprehensive itinerary & trip planner after booking your tour and paying your deposit
o Our staff is happy to provide additional travel suggestions to maximize enjoyment on your visit to Northern California