Tour of Spain -- Vuelta a España 2009
An unforgetable experience
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Dates: September 16-21st, 2009
For the first time in the Vuelta’s history the race will start in the Netherlands, in the Dutch city of Assen. It has been more than 12 years since the Tour of Spain has started outside of its homeland. Despite its start in the flatlands this is a Tour for climbers.
Gruppetto Tours’ trip will cover the last week with the grand finale in Madrid. We will watch the mountain stages through Avila and Segovia, the individual time trial in Toledo and the last stage and ceremonies in Madrid. This is one of the best opportunities ever to see your favorite riders up and close—watch them as they grind to the top of Navacerrada, or on the block for their individual time trial.
Marvel at the history and beauty of Spain, and of cycling, in the 6-day experience that will delight your senses and stimulate your imagination. From the medieval villages, architecture, boutique hotels, fabulous cuisine and wine to the wild nightlife in Madrid—this year’s Vuelta a España 2009 will not disappoint.
Wednesday, September 16th—Arrivals
You will be greeted at the Madrid Barajas airport. Upon arrival to the hotel staff will be on hand to help you get your bike dialed and ready for the week. Welcome reception and group dinner at our hotel in Avila.
Thursday, September 17th
Stage 18: Talavera de la Reina to Avila
Today’s difficult stage through the Gredos Mountains is certain to create some tension for the favorites. There will not be much rest, as the stage starts with Cat2 climb, and then after a descent they begin their climb up the Cat1 Puerto de Mijares. They will have to climb four category climbs before reaching the finish in Avila. Today’s race finish is always thrilling and an imagery feast for photographers with the grand medieval walls as their backdrop.
We will head out for a 2 hour ride after breakfast and ride the last portion of today’s stage. After lunch we will walk to the stage course and watch the action and stage finish. You will have time this evening to explore Avila.
Friday, September 18th
Stage 19: Avila to Segovia
This is one last BIG day in the mountains for the riders. The climbers last chance to battle it out. Today’s stage includes four category climbs including Navacerrada, which they will climb a total of three times—from both sides. Gruppetto’s staff will have a prime stop at the top of Navacerrada for you to watch the race. There is nothing better than watching a stage from the top of climb—except watching the race go by three times!
You will get your day in the mountains today as well. We will ride the last 75 miles of today’s stage including Navacerrada. With a team car following providing you support along the way this is your opportunity to feel like a pro rider. A grand Spanish feast will await you on top of Navacerrada, and we can share a bottle of great wine as we watch the race action.
Tonight we will be staying at a boutique hotel housed in a 15th century former monastery. Segovia is one of our favorite towns to visit, and a wonderful end to such an incredible day.
Saturday, September 19th
Stage 20: Toledo to Toledo ITT
After an early morning ride around Segovia we will drive to Toledo to watch the penultimate stage of this year’s Vuelta a España. Today’s individual time trial will be the last chance for the top GC riders to gain time on their opponents. Time trials are always a great opportunity to see the riders up close as they warm-up. You will be able to watch the start and the finish and enjoy the incredible host village of Toledo.
After the stage finish we will drive to our hotel in the center of Madrid. Saturday’s are the most popular night out for Spaniards and there is no better place to experience nightlife than Madrid.
Sunday, September 20th
Stage 21: Rivas to Madrid
We will take a touristy ride through Madrid this morning and see some of architecture and parks that Madrid is known for, maybe visit the Sunday Market at Plaza Mayor, or have a few tapas at one of the bars surrounding the plaza.
Today’s circuit is spectacular with its grand roundabouts, fountains, grand streets and parks. You will not miss any of the action from the Paseo de Castellana.
We will have a final group dinner with a few of the Vuelta pro riders before celebrations. You will have a VIP pass to La Vuelta’s party for the riders, teams and organization. This is your chance to see some of your favorite riders off the bike in one of Madrid’s hottest clubs.
Monday, September 21st: Departures
Guests will be shuttled to the Madrid Barajas airport.
Trip Details:
September 16-21st
6 days, 5 nights
Price: 1950 euros
Arrival: Madrid Barajas Airport
Departure: Madrid Barajas Airport
Stages: 4
Days of riding: 4-5
Total ride mileage: TBA
Included:
Pick-up, drop-offs
Excellent accommodations
Reception, 3 dinners with wine, 3 lunches and all breakfasts
Ride support
Please contact trip coordinator for more information regarding
this trip: nikane@gruppettotours.com
Links:
www.lavuelta.com
www.madrid-tourist-guide.com
www.segoviamint.org/english
www.lariojaturismo.com
www.starwoodhotels.com
www.vitoria-gasteiz.org
www2.bilbao.net
www.hoteles-silken.com
www.guggenheim-bilbao.es
www.sansebastianfestival.com
www.donostia.org
www.bcn.es
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Photos by: TDWsport.com
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