New York Finger Lakes Bike Tour | Sojourn Bicycling Vacations

Sojourn Bicycling Vacations

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6 Days / 5 Nights | Rating: Intermediate | Start / End: Geneva, NY

Formed millions of years ago by glacial activity, the Finger Lakes support a region rich in both geologic and cultural history. Home breathtaking scenery and world class wineries, the tour features gorgeous rolling terrain that showcases expansive vistas of farmland, vineyards, and narrow fingers of the lakes for which this region of Upstate New York is named. Cyclists who enjoy scenic rides on lightly traveled roads through rolling countryside will be enthralled by our routes in the Finger Lakes region. Vineyards compete with cows and other crops throughout the tour as Yates County is the largest grower of wine grapes outside of California, boasting over 5,000 acres of lush paintings. Rows of these vines flow down hillsides to the lakes in a changing array of textures and colors. Ride beside the Erie Canal, the gateway to the American West, and through Mennonite communities who travel the region by horse drawn buggies and bicycles. Immerse yourself in the premier accommodations and gourmet cuisine of the beautiful region Wine Spectator magazine calls “the wine and culinary epicenter of New York.”

Travel the Sojourn Style

EXPERIENCES, NOT BIKE TOURS

While we love our cycling, it makes up only one facet of what a true Sojourn trip entails. We believe in immersing ourselves in local cultures and discovering the hidden gems of the world.

REGIONAL PLANNING SPECIALISTS

From Vietnam to France to Glacier National Park, we are committed to offering exceptional trips in regions with which we are deeply familiar. We personally design and operate each of our trips.

PREMIER ACCOMMODATIONS

We carefully select from some of World’s renowned hotels. From highly reviewed and acclaimed Hotel de Londres in San Sebastian, Spain or the Reverie Saigon, Vietnam, one of the leading hotels in the World.

UNWAVERING ATTENTION TO SERVICE

Our commitment to provide you with unwavering service starts from the moment you first interact with the Sojourn team. We believe the little details matter and make the Sojourn vacation a life-list worthy experience for our guests.

PROFESSIONAL TRIP LEADERS

Gracious, engaging, and intelligent, our expert team of tour leaders consist of professionals from all walks of life and make exceptional travel companions. Always a step ahead, they are adept at everything from spinning wrenches to whipping up fabulous picnic lunches.

YOUR VACATION, YOUR PACE

We believe that at the end of the day, you are at the helm of your own vacation. We offer an array of day-to-day options to enable you to approach each day at your own pace.

Day 1

The Historic Erie Canal – Kick off your trip with an easy ride along gentle terrain paralleling the Erie Canal. This historic waterway opened in 1825 and helped fuel migration into the American West. The canal is 363 miles in length and provides a link between the Hudson River and the Great Lakes. View several locks during the ride, and enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking a scenic section of the canal. Wind your way south to the town of Geneva along lightly traveled country roads that slice through rolling farmland. Geneva is home to Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and the town showcases some of the region’s most historic and beautiful lakeside homes – one of which is now Geneva on the Lake, your accommodation for the evening. The inn’s lovely formal gardens, pool, and patio overlook Seneca Lake and make for a relaxing setting in which to unwind following your ride. This evening, the group will gather for a reception before dining al fresco on the patio or in the dining room of the inn. The inn’s dining room is renowned for their creative gourmet cuisine.

GOOD TO KNOW

Every Sojourn trip is different in their own unique ways. We want you to be aware of them so that you can only have the best experiences possible. Please know, whichever trip you choose we are committed to make it the trip of a lifetime!

LODGING:

Geneva on the Lake, Geneva, NY

315-789-7190

www.genevaonthelake.com

CYCLING OPTIONS:

27 Miles

49 Miles

Day 2

Farmland to Wine Country to Watkins Glen – Bluffs between the north-south running lakes feature expansive farmland and fabulous cycling. Roads are lightly traveled through miles of beautifully kept Mennonite farms where horse and buggy—and bicycle—are the most popular forms of transportation. The gentle terrain gradually transforms from farmland into vineyards as the ride descends closer to the lakeshore. Your tour leaders will host a picnic lunch overlooking Seneca Lake at Lakewood Vineyards, a family owned and run winery located in a picturesque setting. Later this afternoon, climb the stone steps along waterfalls that cascade through the winding gorge of Watkins Glen. The hike up the gorge twists and climbs along the creek that cascades through it, even passing under the falls at one point. You might choose to visit a popular tasting room or brewery in town, or enjoy a cruise on the lake before selecting a restaurant in town for dinner. This upscale newer hotel sits on prime real estate that features commanding views of Seneca Lake and is just steps from the pier, and shops and restaurants in town. The property features a terrace, raised fire pit, swimming pool, lounge and restaurant.

KEEPING YOU POSTED

We’re constantly looking for ways to enhance our trips. We’ll do our best to notify you of any changes in this itinerary. Other changes may be communicated to you on the trip by your leaders.

LODGING:

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, Warkins Glen, NY

607-535-6116

www.watkinsglenharborhotel.com

CYCLING OPTIONS:
37 Miles
59 Miles

Day 3

Cayuga Lake, Ithaca and a Hidden Gem – Ride through rural farmland en route to Ithaca and scenic Cayuga Lake. Ithaca is home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, as well as the as a popular farmer’s market that just happens to take place on Tuesdays. Take a break from riding while enjoying lunch in town or at the farmer’s market. Moosewood Restaurant is a popular stop for vegetarians or just admirers of their famous cookbook. Tackle the gradual climb out of Ithaca or opt for a van shuttle to more level terrain where small country wineries beckon a visit.

The relaxed and rural setting enables connections with winery owners, winemakers, and growers. A welcoming oasis in the charming village of Aurora awaits you at the end of your ride when you roll into the Inns of Aurora. This lovely collection of inns features lawns that slope gently to the shore of Cayuga Lake. Grab a paddle and explore the lakeshore before dinner in the inn’s award-winning dining room.

LODGING:

The Inns of Aurora, Aurora, NY

315-364-8888

www.innsofaurora.com

CYCLING OPTIONS:
21 Miles
35 Miles
55 Miles

Day 4

Relax, Ride, Explore – No need to pack up and leave this beautiful setting as you’re in line for another evening here in Aurora. Relax at the inn or in town, or choose between a low-key or more rolling ride. The main showroom and original estate of the whimsical home decor manufacturer MacKenzie-Childs is worth a visit if only to view the sprawling grounds. Should a more rolling and scenic ride be on your list, the gorgeous ridgeline between Cayuga and neighboring Owasco Lake is not to be missed. Expansive views and very lightly traveled roads make for the perfect ride. Should you desire to get out on the lake, the inn has a selection of kayaks and canoes available for use or you might opt for guided winery tours, by boat. Upon returning to the inn following your adventures, stroll down to the waterfront and unwind overlooking the lake. If you sit there long enough, you might witness one of the inn’s signature sunsets over the lake. This evening, walk to a restaurant in town or dine in the inn’s dining room.

LODGING:

The Inns of Aurora, Aurora, NY

315-364-8888

www.innsofaurora.com

CYCLING OPTIONS:
16 Miles
27 Miles

Day 5

Skaneateles and Spa – We’re quite certain that you won’t want to leave the inn behind this morning however there are plenty of good things ahead. Ride east to the town of Skaneateles which sits at the north end of the lake that bears its name. This upscale village features shops and eateries, a lovely waterfront park, and narrated cruises on Skaneateles Lake.

Following the morning’s ride, take a cruise on the lake, rent a stand-up paddleboard (or take a lesson), browse shops, or indulge in a massage or spa treatment at the inn. Those up for a more rigorous ride will enjoy a route along narrow country roads that roll and wind through rural farmland. Climbs are rewarded with spectacular views from a vantage points overlooking patchwork farmland and views of the lake. Mirbeau is designed in a lovely Provençal style, both in setting and in architecture, and features its own spa, wine bar, and restaurant. Guests of the inn enjoy full access to the mineral pool and quiet room, as well as steam rooms. This evening, the inn hosts a private reception for the group before a final dinner together in the private dining room.

MULTIPLE ROUTE OPTIONS

Itching for that EPIC (Extra Pedal if Crazy) ride? No problem, we’ll show you our favorite hills. Looking for more downtime? Your trip leaders will tell you the best days to take a break. All Sojourn tours have multiple route options to accommodate your riding skill or desires!

LODGING:

Mirbeau Inn & Spa, Skaneateles, NY

877-647-2328

www.mirbeau.com

CYCLING OPTIONS:
28 Miles
45 Miles

Day 6

The Best for Last – The final ride of the week is one we think will rank among your favorites of the trip. Follow the lakeshore south through verdant farmland as the route winds along the valley floor. The picturesque scenery and gentle terrain combine in perfect fashion to conclude your riding for the week. Enjoy a leader-hosted picnic lunch at a whimsical sculpture garden where you will join with your new friends for a final gathering. Mid-afternoon, you will be transferred the short distance to the airport in Syracuse. Optional transportation to the Rochester airport or the Del Monte is available for those returning to that area, with an estimated arrival time of 6:00pm.

CYCLING OPTIONS:
28 Miles

Tour Accommodations

Geneva on the Lake

This striking 1914 Italianate villa overlooks formal English gardens on the shore of Seneca Lake. Perennial AAA Four Diamond Award winner. (1 Night)
1001 Lochland Rd.
Geneva, NY 14456
www.genevaonthelake.com | 315.789.7190

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

A stylish new boutique hotel overlooking the southern end of Seneca Lake. Spacious rooms, lake views, restaurant and bar. Walk to shops. (1 Night)
16 North Franklin St.
Watkins Glen, NY 14891
www.watkinsglenharborhotel.com | 607.535.6116

The Inns of Aurora

Beautifully restored in boutique style, this magnificent collection of lakeside inns features gracious service and the finest of attention to detail. Restaurant and bar. (2 Nights)
391 Main Street
Aurora, New York 13026
www.innsofaurora.com | 315.364.8888

Mirbeau Inn & Spa

A Provençal styled inn and gardens featuring a Forbes Travel Guide, 4-Star Award winning restaurant and spa. Wine bar, spa services, restaurant. (1 Night)
851 W Genesee Street Rd
Skaneateles, NY 13152
www.mirbeau.com/skaneateles | 877-647-2328

Travel & Tour Quick Facts

TOUR START 8:00am at the Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel & Spa in Pittsford, NY which is a 15-minute drive from the airport in Rochester
TOUR CONCLUSION 3:00pm – Group arrival at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR). Departing flights should not be scheduled out of SYR prior to 4:00pm.
TRAVEL TO/FROM TOUR Fly into Rochester (ROC)
Uber or Lyft to the Del Monte Lodge
Fly out of Syracuse (SYC)
Complimentary (SYC) airport shuttle post-tour.
PRE-TOUR LODGING The Del Monte Lodge, 41 N Main St, Pittsford NY
DAYS/NIGHTS 6 Days/5 Nights
INCLUDED MEALS All breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
ACTIVITIES Road cycling, hiking, boating
RATING Intermediate - This tour is perfect for cyclists who do not mind a few gently rolling hills with some longer grades. Routes average 20- 60 miles a day over rolling terrain with longer options available.

Dates & Pricing

HERE are the Departure Dates and Pricing Details.

What’s Included?

EQUIPMENT Road or hybrid bike, helmet, rear light, seat bag for road bike or rack bag for hybrid, map case, water bottle, and jersey. Bring clipless pedals, seat, or helmet for a more personalized fit.
VAN SUPPORT Rides supported by a Sojourn van as well as a tour leader on a bicycle.
TOUR LEADERS Two experienced tour leaders guide each trip from start to finish.
RIDE NOURISHMENT A selection of snacks and refreshments are supplied throughout all rides.
RIDE INFORMATION Detailed route directions, maps, downloadable GPS routes, and a daily briefing are provided.
OFFICE SUPPORT At your service 9:00am – 6:00pm EST, Monday – Friday. 802-425-4771
DETAILED INFORMATION A full complement of detailed trip and travel information will be provided upon confirmation of reservation.
E-BIKES & TANDEMS Limited Electric Assist Bikes are available on all tours. Tandems are also available on on our US and Canada tours for an additional fee. Call us at 1-802-425-4771 for details

Weather

Rochester, NY Jul Aug Sep
High °F 81° 79° 72°
Low °F 61° 60° 52°
Precip. Inches 3.3 3.4 3.3

WE’RE HAPPY TO CHAT!

Call: 802.425.4771
Write: info@gosojourn.com
Visit: GoSojourn.com

PRICES & SCHEDULE

All prices and schedules are subject to change at any time.

Click HERE to view the latest departure dates & prices.

Call: 802.425.4771 Write: info@gosojourn.com Visit: GoSojourn.com
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