Spread the love

Boutique Italian tour operator, A’qto Cycling, has announced the launch of local tours in country Victoria to bring riders a ‘slice of Italy’ at home; selecting Bright & Daylesford for their mountain climbs, rolling hills and picturesque views parallel to the terrain of the Italian countryside.Following the restriction of overseas travel due to COVID-19 and subsequent postponement of fully-booked Italian tours across Puglia, Tuscany, L’Eroica, Piemonte and the Dolomites, A’qto Cycling founders, Nancy De Losa & Damian Hancock, have put a local spin on their successful tours – both riding & non-riding components – ticking all the boxes for a 4-day getaway with authentic Italian immersion.

“We needed to innovate our business in order to keep our clients engaged for travel in 2021, so we have carefully selected local regions that encompass a true Italian adventure. The destinations showcase both Italian heritage and sensational cycling experiences, all while encapsulating the natural beauty of Australia,” says Damian Hancock, co-founder of A’qto Cycling.

The ‘Gourmet Escapes’ guided tours, commencing September 2020, visit the rolling hills and backroads of Victoria’s spa country, Daylesford, and the Australian alpine landscape of Bright, on a 4-day and 3-night adventure.

Cyclists will enjoy daily rides throughout Hepburn, Tawonga Gap and Mount Buffalo, guided by Damian through varying elevation and difficulty, while non-riding guests, hosted by Nancy, will enjoy activities ranging from guided walks and visits to beautiful local towns to professional cooking and photography classes.

“One of our main points-of-difference from other cycling tour companies in the industry is our non-riding partner program, which allows couples to tour together, despite varying interests. As a non-cyclist myself, my time on tour is solely devoted to the enjoyment of our guests off-the-bike, whether that is hosting atmospheric evening aperitivo hours, indulgent dinners or facilitating rewarding non-riding partner activities,” says Nancy De Losa.

Post-ride, all guests will indulge in authentic Italian dining, delicious local produce and regional wines while residing in boutique and private accommodation, simultaneously supporting local tourism.

Tours for Daylesford and Bright are priced at $1,595.00 and $1,995.00 per person, respectively, which includes all accommodation, meals and activities.