Argentina

Argentina has a stronger European influence than some of its South American contemporaries, so you’ll find plenty of aesthetic similarities in Argentinian Christmas decorations. However, seeing as December is summertime south of the equator, it can be quite hot out. Christmas trees are sometimes decorated with cotton balls to represent snow that wouldn’t last five minutes in the Buenos Aires climate. A uniquely Argentinian addition to the festivities are globos, paper lanterns launched on Christmas Eve. Watching them drift across the night sky is lovely way to mark the season.

Chile

You’ll find plenty of festive holiday treats in any of the nations on this list, but none pack as much kick as the Chilean beverage Cola de Mono (“Monkey’s Tail”). Lore has it this drink’ll have you swinging from the ceiling. That’s probably down to the sugar, coffee and booze, which combine with milk and spices for a flavour reminiscent of a White Russian cocktail. Chilean aguardiente or pisco are most traditional, but if you’re curious to try this one at home, white rum is a fair substitute.

Catalonia

Catalonia’s Tió de Nadal might be one of the odder traditions here, though it shares some DNA with the Advent calendar and the piñata. The tió is a hollow logo, often painted with a smiling face and covered with a blanket to keep it warm. Beginning on December 8 children feed it snacks and candies. When Christmas Eve rolls around, the kids beat the log with sticks while asking it in singsong to poop out presents. When the songs are over, lo and behold the tió has dropped a stash of treats beneath the blanket. The tió has several scatological names and songs attached to it, ensuring this quirky tradition never gets old.

Belgium

Saint Nicolas is the patron saint of children, and Sinterklaas is his Belgian incarnation. His signature red outfit is the inspiration behind modern-day Santa Claus. Like Santa Claus he keeps a thorough naughty-and-nice list, but unlike Santa his off-season home is in Spain, and he makes the journey to Belgium by boat. Nor does he travel by reindeer, but rides a white horse. Instead of milk and cookies, some children leave a carrot or hay to feed Sinter’s faithful mount.

Germany

Many Germany children practice a variant of the old stocking-by-the-hearth tradition. While waiting for Father Christmas on the night of December 5th, they place a shoe or a boot outside their front door — perhaps recently cleaned, to show they’ve been good. If he buys it, the shoe will be filled with sweets and gifts come morning. If a child has landed on the naughty register instead, Father Christmas’ dour assistant Knecht Ruprecht will stuff it with coal, twigs, or stones.

Austria

One of Austria’s great contributions to the Christmas canon is “Silent Night” (“Stille Nacht”). Composed by Franz Xaver Gruber with lyrics by Joseph Mohr, the song has been officially recognized by UNESCO as part of the nation’s cultural heritage. That song might be the definition of wholesome, but the Austrian tradition makes room for some wickedness in the form of Krampus, a cloven-hoofed demon who violently punishes naughty children. Krampus festivals take place throughout December, featuring some truly terrifying costumes. If the holidays get a little saccharine for your tastes, Krampus will cut through the sweetness in a hurry.

Croatia

You’ve probably heard of yule logs (even if it’s only through the televised version). Croatia’s iteration is called a badnjak, and traditionally it would be cut on the morning of Christmas Eve. Families sprinkle it with wine or holy water while making their religious observations. Once lit it’s important the badnjak stay burning throughout the night, so someone must be sure to get up and tend the fire every few hours. With an increasingly urbanized population this one isn’t so widespread anymore, though it’s still practiced in rural areas.

Czech Republic

Most kids look forward to seeing Santa or his regional equivalent on Christmas Eve, but in the Czech Republic some look forward to seeing a golden pig. That’s down to a persistent legend that states anyone who fasts until dinner on the 24th will see a golden pig. It’s meant to be a sign of good luck, but whether it appears or not chances are most Czechs will break fast with fish. Carp with potato salad is a very traditional meal, so much so large tanks show up on the streets of Prague the week before Christmas full of fresh carp.

France

The French are known for their culinary excellence, so it’s no surprise Christmas meals can take a long time. In Provence that might mean following dinner with a whopping thirteen desserts. Les Treize Desserts de Noël are said to represent Jesus Christ and his twelve apostles. Exact menus vary, but fruits, nuts, biscuits and nougat are traditional. Most of the options are fairly light, and remain set out on the table until the 27th to give a family time to graze.

Ireland

A candle in the window seems like a quintessential Christmas decoration, but in Ireland at least the tradition has a double meaning. Officially the candle was meant as a symbol of hospitality and an invitation for Joseph and Mary to seek shelter there. The second meaning was more clandestine — in the 17th century Catholicism was suppressed, and Catholics practiced their faith in secret. A candle in the window at Christmas time was a beacon that told priests they could safely visit to say Mass. The candle tradition is less common today, but persists in some homes as a sign of welcome.

Italy

In some traditions Epiphany holds more religious significance than Christmas itself. That’s why in Italy children often receive their gifts on January 5, Epiphany Eve. Rather than a visit from Father Christmas, some Italian youngsters look forward to a visit from La Befana. Legend has it she was approached by the Three Wise Men during their search for Jesus, but she declined their offer to accompany them because she had housework to attend to. When she realized what an opportunity she’d missed she struck out on a search of her own, gifting presents to good little children along the way. She might even do a bit of sweeping before moving on, and children leave her a glass of wine as a token of thanks.

Portugal

The bolo-rei is the most famous of Portuguese Christmas desserts. Literally translating as “king cake,” it looks like a deluxe fruitcake topped with colourful candied fruit. A hole in the middle makes it resemble a crown. Baked inside it are a fava bean and a coin or small prize (some versions omit the latter, and commercial versions may omit both). The person who gets the prize can bask in their good luck for a whole year; the person eating the slice with the fava bean is declared the King and must supply next year’s bolo-rei.

Slovenia

An old Slovenian Christmas tradition revolves around baking three loaves of bread. Wheat, rye, and buckwheat don’t sound like particularly festive choices, but they symbolize the three feasts of Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Epiphany. A sweeter option is potica, a cake made with nuts or other flavourful fillings. In addition to all the baking, if you’re in Slovenia you might catch other scents on the air as well— burning incense is a popular holiday tradition.

Considering seeing some of this Christmas traditions firsthand? Check out our South American tour offerings, or use the Destinations tab to browse our European tours.

The post Unique Christmas Traditions from Around the World appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Winemaking is woven into the culture of many of the countries we visit with Pure Adventures. If you’re a wine lover on a self-guided tour, you might drop in on favourite vineyard to see how the grapes are grown and the wine is made. Along the way you may discover a unique local producer you’ve never heard of, or take advantage of a tasting day to explore the nuances of the terroir. A little advance research can help you identify must-trys along your route, so we’ve compiled a list of regionally famous wine varietals to keep an eye out for next time you find yourself in wine country.

Germany – Riesling

Riesling is Germany’s signature varietal — the first recorded reference to Riesling comes from the 15th century, when it became the drink of choice for German nobility. Today it accounts for nearly a quarter of the nation’s total wine production. Rieslings are typically low in alcohol, high in acidity, and prized for their refreshing crispness. Somewhat unusually for a white wine, they can age well. Older Rieslings develop a signature petroleum smell, which might sound unappetizing but is natural and prized as part of the grape’s unique profile. They range from sweet to bone-dry depending on the terroir. Because of the local climate, German Rieslings tend towards the dry side. They pair particularly well with spicy food because the acidity has a way of cleansing the palate. See this post by Wine Folly to learn more about Riesling varieties.

Austria – Grüner Veltliner 

Austria’s favorite grape is Grüner Veltliner, or Grüner for short. This wonderful white is often considered one the world’s best “food wines.” Again thanks to its high acidity it can hold its own even against red meat or a spicy plate of Vietnamese. The availability of plentiful, affordable Grüner is part of the charm, but the varietal has the sophistication to improve with age. “Reserve” Grüners exhibit a deeper hue and a peppery flavour.

The terraced vineyards along the Danube are fairytale-pretty and make the ideal backdrop for a tasting. While you’re in Austria, consider trying the classic Grüner and weiner schnitzel combination. Vegetarians, on the other hand, will appreciate how well this one pairs with bitter veg like asparagus. 

Argentina – Malbec & Torrontés 

Malbec originated in France, but grew poorly in the French climate. The vine much preferred Argentina’s hot climate and high elevation, and quickly grew in popularity once it was planted there. It is rich and full-bodied, with flavours of dark fruits like cherry and blackberry. Malbec is excellent served on its own, and pairs well with smoky or earthy flavours. Try it with lean red meat or with mushrooms, or a pungent blue cheese. At a local tasting, you’ll notice the mountainous vistas of Salta are a good match with dramatic, bold flavours as well.

If you prefer white to red, Torrontés is among the famous wine varietals well worth trying. Of the three varieties — Torrontés Riojano, Sanjuanino, and Mendocino — Riojano is the popular favourite. Notable for its moderate acidity and light peach flavour, Torrontés also benefits from Argentina’s warm, dry climate and high elevation. It is usually drunk young, and carries refreshing floral and herbal notes. Torrontés pairs well with spicy Indian food, but while you’re in Salta try pairing it with empanada salteñas.

Portugal – Port & Vinho Verde

Port derives its name from the city of Porto, the second largest city in Portugal. The grapes are produced in nearby Duoro Valley, home to some unbelievably picturesque vineyards. Looking out across the Duoro River as it winds out to sea between sunny hillsides is guaranteed to enhance the tasting experience.

Port is a fortified wine, meaning the addition of brandy to wine stops fermentation before it is complete. This method preserves residual sugar for a sweeter flavour. Typically full-bodied and plummy, ports can serve as either aperitif or digestif. There are several varieties to try, including ruby and tawny port. The former is younger and retains more fruity characteristics, while the later is aged in small wooden barrels for a nuttier taste and a darker colour. Both are blended to maintain a balanced profile. More expensive vintage ports are blended, oaked, then bottle-aged for years to attain their peak complexity. Try serving a glass with blue cheese to round out a special meal.

If you’re looking for something a bit fresher, consider a glass of vinho verde. Literally “green wine,” the colour here refers to age, not grape variety. These wines are fresh and summery with a slight effervescence. Serve with seafood or other light, citrusy dishes. If you’re enjoying a glass after the end of a long day biking, the low alcohol content won’t send you off to bed too early.

Hungary – Tokaji Aszú 

Hungary’s Tokaji aszú is considered one of the great dessert wines of the world. Even if you typically avoid sweet wines, this one deserves to be on your list. Aszú has a long history of being celebrated in royal courts across Europe. The production of aszú relies on noble rot, a type of mold that develops in moist conditions. When affected grapes dry out they shrivel, concentrating their flavours and sugars. They are then added in careful proportion to a base must, giving the wine its unique qualities. The high sweetness means aszú ages very well indeed — bottles can last over a century. Even a glass of more recent vintage will show rich flavours of apricot, honey, cinnamon and ginger. Aszú is delightful on its own, perhaps as a holiday digestif, or as part of classic pairing with foie gras, chocolate, or cheese.

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At eight famous wine varietals across five countries, we’ve barely scratched the surface. There’s certainly enough here to kickstart a wonderful tasting adventure, but a list is no substitute for on-the-ground experience. Start planning your next custom trip and discover some new and vibrant flavours on your own.

The post Advanced Wine Tasting: Regionally Famous Wine Varietals appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Argentina is a culturally rich destination. Stop in Buenos Aires, and you’ll see why it’s the country’s capital. Boasting to be the home of tango, it also is the home of many different people – as it openly accepts immigrants from across the world. Because of this, Buenos Aires is considered a melting pot, and its cultural influences are not purely limited to its indigenous and Spanish backgrounds. But for the outdoorsy traveler, Buenos Aires might get old. Located on the Atlantic coast, it skips out on the beauty and the majesty of the Andes mountains. For those, head over to Salta and get ready for a mix of culture and nature.

For being so far from the nation’s capital and so surrounded by natural wonders, Salta is a large city. Home to 620,000 residents, it is a nest of culture in the foothills of the Andes. This region is well known for its archaeological wonders, and a trip to the High Mountain Archaeological Museum will prove this. Travel even just a few miles outside of the city and you will find yourself in quaint towns that host authentic Argentinian food (like delicious empanadas) available after a long day of hiking. North of Salta is Purmamarca, which holds the Hill of the Seven Colors – only one of the many enjoyable hikes in this area of the Andes, famous for the sedimentary deposits in the hills that give it its name.

Also renowned in this region is its wine, and what better place to enjoy it? Nestled in the foothills of Cafayate are many high-end wineries…

Nearby Cuesta de Lipán gets the hiker close to Chile and Bolivia. Here you can see more of the famous colored hills of the region, and witness the famous pack animals of the region, like llamas and donkeys. Small towns speckle this region and pave the way for some of the comfort foods that the area is known for, like quinoa and fava bean dishes. Nearby, the Chachi mountain is another breathtaking sight of the area. A farm-heavy area, hikers can often see the fruits of the local farmers’ labor at its varying stages of growth and harvest. Or, visitors may opt to purchase this produce in nearby towns and get a taste of the nearby region after a hard day of hiking.

The best part of the Salta region, however, is that after a day of solitude in the mountains, it is possible to return to the city, ripe with the culture that has made the region thrive over so many years…

Also renowned in this region is its wine, and what better place to enjoy it? Nestled in the foothills of Cafayate are many high-end wineries, whose grapevines thrive in the arid region that mirrors many of the regions in Spain. In this way, it is easy to see how Spanish conquerors made themselves so at home in this region back in the 1500’s. Quebrada de las Conchas, on the other hand, looks a lot like Utah or many regions of the Southwest United States, making it a prime location for a hike and a stunning view unique to the region.

The best part of the Salta region, however, is that after a day of solitude in the mountains, it is possible to return to the city, ripe with the culture that has made the region thrive over so many years and enjoy both as completely unique but inseparable wonder. For it is in this region that inhabitants come to the hills with a sense of gratitude for the natural magnificence that has cultivated their lives. It is alive in their food, their style, and the way that they continue to grow. Experience it on your own or with a guided tour, like Pure Adventures’ Multi-Sport Adventure Tour.

The post Salta’s Outdoors – Where Adventure and Culture Meet the Andes appeared first on Pure Adventures.

At Pure Adventures we are so lucky to have bike rental connections all over the world, who supply our clients with top quality bikes perfect for the diverse tours that we offer.

However, if you just can’t bring yourself to leave your bike at home, here are some excellent infographics by the folks over at Yellow Jersey  that display bike luggage charges from one end of the planet to the other.

Which will you choose after crunching the numbers?

The post Bike Luggage Charges: Worth Keeping Your Bike At Home? appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Vienna was once the capital of an Empire that controlled much of Europe, and many major turning points in European history either took place here, or were the results of decisions made here. Vienna has remained a leader in many cultural areas – amazing food, drink and entertainment are a few of the major draws to the area. Of course we can’t leave out the fact that Austria has THE best bike trails in Europe.

But for now, let’s focus on THE FLAVOUR OF VIENNA: DRINKS, FOOD & FUN, shall we? Here are some of our top picks and some delicious images. Enjoy!

VIENNA IN ALL IT’S BEAUTY!

The post The Flavour Of Vienna: DRINKS, FOOD & FUN! appeared first on Pure Adventures.

For travelling cyclists, Austria and the Czech Republic offer something for everyone. Austria’s bike-friendly Danube cycle path is paved and well marked, winding trails through the mountains offer a challenge to fit cyclists, the breathtaking architecture and scenery provides a memorable backdrop for tourists, and of course, beer to quench your thirst after a day in the saddle. If you’re planning a self-guided cycling trip to Austria or the Czech Republic, Pure Adventures suggests checking out these bike trails and brew pubs.

České Budějovice

Did you know that České Budějovice is home to the original Budweiser, having been brewed here for more than 700 years? There are a handful of brewpubs in this small city and two breweries, Měšťanský Pivovar and Budějovický Budvar. Calling their beers The Original Budweiser, Budějovický Budvar is a state-owned brewery with it’s drafts available in all the local pubs. Budvarka Pivnice is regularly packed with locals, but for a trendy European style experience, you may want to head to Potrefená Husa. The city also boasts nine paved and well marked paths which take you through picturesque parks and across bridges. All the bike paths in České Budějovice are interconnected, so zipping through the city to shop or dine is a breeze.

Linz
The historic city of Linz is undergoing a transformation and has come a long way since the Iron Curtain was lifted 25 years ago. Festivals, food and of course cycling, have helped Linz flourish. The Schwemmland – the wetland around Linz harbor – are a hidden gems for nature lovers. Klosterhof is by far the largest pub in Linz, but centuries old Wirt auf der Wies deserves a visit as well.

Vienna
Vienna is a vibrant, beautiful city with many things to do including seeing the cathedral and the amazingly designed Hundertwasser House, designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser in 1985. There are 745 miles of bike baths throughout Vienna, including the Ringstrasse, a paved route circling the city and taking in its most beloved sights. Most hotels are famously bike-friendly as are the public trains. Vienna’s lively beer scene offers everything from Irish-style pubs with extensive whisky selections (Bockshorn Irish Pub), Fischer Bräu which was recently named Austria’s best brewpub and 1516 Brewing Company, which boasts two of Austria’s best beers and their burgers were named among the best in the world by Matador.

Salzburg
This impressive town, situated on the banks of the Salzach River, is where the composer Mozart was born and raised. With Pure Adventures, you spend a day riding along along the Mozart cycling path, winding  through beautiful Alpine countryside, the Salzkammergut, along the Mondsee and Wolfgangsee lakes to St. Gilgen. Within Salzburg’s city center, there are over 105 kilometers bike paths with 900 signs, 23 scenic bicycle routes, ingenious self-service stations offering free tools, bike stands, lubricating oil and compressed air for emergencies and a website dedicated to helping you find the most direct cycling route through Salzburg. No wonder it’s Austria’s number 1 cycle city! As for beer and brewpubs, numerous options await in this regions, which has been producing beer for more than 500 years. Stiegl, Austria’s leading family-owned brewery can be found in Salzburg, produces more than 20 varieties in their state-of-the-art facility. Augustiner Braustubl is a hidden gem of adored by locals. Awarded a Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor, it’s also ranked the best brew pub by tourists for its food, atmosphere and of course, beer.

Pure Adventures offers three unique self-guided cycling vacations in Austria. Starting at € 1051 Euros, our self-guided bicycle tours include hybrid bike rental, flexible start dates, accommodations, route maps, daily breakfasts, luggage transfers and local support. Contact us for more information or for your free Austria destination guide.

The post Bikes & Beer: cycle-touring picks in Austria and the Czech Republic appeared first on Pure Adventures.

When it comes to breathtaking countryside and mountainous terrain, Austria has long cornered the market. But beyond the Alpine charm and friendly atmosphere, there is much more to this beautiful country than meets the eye. Like history? How far back would you like to go? Perhaps back to a time when Mozart and Strauss roamed the charming streets. Or, further – to Roman times or maybe even the Stone Age. Austria’s many layers run deep, and it is a country that has been built on its rich, fascinating past. Yet, somehow there is a modern undercurrent that breathes new life into its many quaint cities and towns. Five such towns are particularly noteworthy, and should be at the top of any Austrian visitor’s must-see list.

Linz

This city, with ancient Roman roots, is the third largest in the country. Despite a rocky past that includes ties to Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime, Linz has developed into a modern, vibrant city. It is particularly known for the arts and music scene that is so prominent there, from the multitude of museums to the many fairs and festivals that are held there each year. Then, of course, there’s Wilhering Abbey, a Cistercian monastery that serves as a main focal point of the city and a favorite stop among visitors. The monastery features a number of beautiful buildings that have been kept up over the centuries, and offer wonderful examples of exquisite Rococo architectural design, particularly the church. If rich history and culture are what you’re looking for, you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for in this magnificent city.

Durnstein

In stark contrast to Linz, the tiny town of Durnstein doesn’t boast nearly as high a population, nor is it as modern. To the contrary, Durnstein has somehow managed to maintain its old-world atmosphere, and it’s long been touted as one of the most romantic places in Austria – perhaps even the world. Given its prime location, along the charming Danube River and that fact that it also happens to be home to some world famous wine-growing areas, this is no surprise. The town received its name from the medieval castle that proudly overlooked it, which once served as the prison for Richard the Lion-Hearted and the ruins of which are still visible today.

Melk

Another smaller city that exudes old-world charm and ancient history, Melk was once a peaceful haven for Benedictine monks. In fact, one of the town’s most popular sites is the Melk Abbey. This impressive structure is located high atop a rocky outcrop and is considered one of the most well-known monastic sites in the world. Founded in 1089, the abbey features an impressive library that is home to fascinating relics and medieval manuscripts. Today it still serves as a school to some 900 pupils. Aside from the abbey, and despite its smaller size, Melk offers quite a few other fascinating examples of architectural styles and designs that have evolved over the centuries.

Krems

Combining the best of the three previously mentioned cities, Krems offers a vibrant modern atmosphere that intertwines seamlessly with its rich past. The city’s historical center is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Europe, and played a pivotal role in Krems being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2000. But this town’s roots go well beyond the centuries-old art and architecture it has become known for. In fact, Austria’s oldest known grave – that of an ancient child dating back some 27,000 years ago – was discovered here. In addition to its rich historical and cultural diversity, Krems is also well known for the wine that’s produced there, particularly the varieties of Grüner, Veltliner and Riesling. Wine making is a tradition that has been interwoven into the city’s past for as long as we can trace it back, and one sip of the exquisite Krems wines will tell you, they certainly know what they’re doing!

Klosterneuburg

Another lovely historic town, Klosterneuburg features a uniquely hilly terrain covered in unassuming homes and buildings, yet is just a stone’s throw away from Vienna, a decidedly modern city that is pulsating with excitement and teeming with life. One could say it’s the best of both worlds. Among Klosterneuburg’s atmosphere of charm and culture there is ample wine making and plenty of historical buildings to admire. Of particular note is the Stift Klosterneuburg Monastery, which has roots that date back as far as around 1108. The buildings have been kept in remarkably good condition over the centuries, and remain a focal point of visitors, who can enjoy modern-day tours of the monastery.

Of the many beautiful destinations in Europe, perhaps none offer the rich history, deep-rooted culture and breathtaking scenery as Austria. From ancient graves to Roman ruins, from traditional wine making to exquisite art and architecture, Austria provides the perfect combination of old-world charm and modern-day flare for a vibrant atmosphere you won’t soon forget. These five cities embody the very best that Austria has to offer, and are a must for any would-be Austrian tourist.

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Of all the beautiful and musically rich destinations in Europe, the city of Vienna most certainly tops the list. In fact, it’s been dubbed one of the world capitals of music – and for good reason. Vienna has turned out some of the most talented and world-renowned musical prodigies in history. From the exquisite sounds of Mozart, to the mesmerizing melodies of Beethoven, to the moving notes of Johann Strauss, Vienna remains the heart of classical music to this very day.

The First Viennese School is a term that has become synonymous with such infamous composers as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joseph Haydn, Ludwig Van Beethoven, and Franz Schubert, just to name a few. Contrary to the way it sounds, these composers were not “schooled” by one another, nor did they work collaboratively in any significant way. Instead, the term is used to designate those early composers that have heavily influenced classical music over the centuries, and still do to this day. The classical music prodigies continued in later years, to include the likes of Johann Strauss Sr., Johann Strauss Jr., Johannes Brahms and Arnold Schönberg.

Modern day Vienna is still heavily influenced by its classical roots. Music is simply part of the overall culture of the city, and what has shaped it into what it is today. Viennese life is centered on music, from operas to concerts, to theatrical performances. For instance, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, which was founded in 1848 as the first professional orchestra in Vienna, is considered to be one of the best orchestras in the world.  Similarly, the Vienna Boys’ Choir is world renowned, both for their angelic voices and the unique sailor suits they wear.

The Burgtheater is a favorite among German-speaking music enthusiasts, as is the Akademietheater. Similarly, the Volkstheater Wien and the Theater in der Josefstadt are also highly regarded theatres. Vienna is also home to a number of world-famous, historical opera houses, including the Theater an der Wien, the Staatsoper and the Volksoper, at which most shows include the highly entertaining Viennese operetta style performances. Classical concerts are also performed at well-known venues such as the Wiener Musikverein. Wherever you go in Vienna, chances are you’ll find music.

When it comes to classical music, one thing is for certain – Vienna has long cornered the market. If a trip to this breathtaking city is in your future, be sure to include a few stops at the many theatres and venues listed here.  There’s simply no better way to truly experience the beauty of Vienna than through its fantastic musical heritage.

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The mighty Danube River has been given the nickname “the river that connects Europe”, and for good reason.  This incredible body of water winds its way through 10 different European countries, weaving a variety of cultures and breathtaking landscapes together like a beautiful tapestry.  One of the best ways to experience the Danube is to cycle along its extensive banks, an activity that is becoming increasingly popular among locals and visitors alike.  In fact, Pure Adventures features two tours that are perfect for discovering the Danube River and all of its surrounding natural, cultural and historic beauty.

The impressive Danube bike trail runs right alongside the river and is split into four distinct sections.  The tours offered by Pure Adventures cover two of these trails.

Passau to Vienna – Austria Danube Bike Tour

This cycling trail happens to be ranked among the most popular in all of Europe.  The terrain is relatively flat, making it perfect for cyclists of all abilities and ages.  The eight day tour begins in beautiful Passau and continues on through Sauwald to Schlogen, then on to Linz, Grein, Melk and Tulln before concluding in the fairytale city of Vienna.

Along the way you’ll navigate through deep river valleys, right alongside the Danube and catch glimpses of ancient castles and cathedrals perched high on the hills above.  Experience blissful meadows, blossoming orchards and meandering vineyards and discover the rich cultures of each destination as you follow this unforgettable journey.  Enjoy a guided tour or set off on your own with a self-guided adventure – the choice is yours!

Vienna to Budapest – Hungary Cycling Tour

A breathtaking and truly memorable eight day adventure, this tour has you cycling from Vienna to Budapest with the Danube as your wandering guide.  You’ll be amazed at the variety of towns and villages you’ll discover along the way, each with its own charm and unique atmosphere.  You’ll start in picturesque Vienna and continue on to Bad Deutsch-Altenburg and along the scenic banks of the Lajta River in Mosonmagyar.  Then you’ll ride to Gyor, Tata and Esztergom before ending your journey in the historical city of Budapest.

Explore the meandering landscapes, dotted with impressive monuments, ancient palaces and architectural masterpieces.  Visit the infamous Old Quarter and take in the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites you’ll encounter along the way.  This leisurely tour is blissfully relaxing and provides the perfect combination of adventure and cultural discovery.

Given its impressive and incredible journey through nearly a dozen countries, it’s no surprise that the Danube River is among the most interesting and diverse landmarks in the world.  Its tranquil waters and peaceful banks provide the perfect setting for cycling enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, and from every corner of the world to enjoy the ride of a lifetime.  Come along with us for this incredible adventure of cycling the mighty Danube and enjoy an experience you won’t soon forget.

The post The Mighty Danube appeared first on Pure Adventures.

If it’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, brilliant art and culture and culinary masterpieces you seek, then Austria is the perfect destination for you.  From ancient architecture to gorgeous sweeping hills to fine wine and dining, there is something here to meet every visitor’s needs.  Recent years have seen a virtual explosion in epicurean delights, making it a haven for wine connoisseurs and gourmands from across the globe.  And with a wonderfully varied landscape, from valleys to hills to the towering Austrian Alps, the area is perfect for outdoor adventures, particularly biking.  Here are 5 reasons to cycle Austria:

Danube River

This charming body of water is so beloved that it has been the subject of countless melodies.  The Danube is no meandering stream – it’s the 2^nd longest river in all of Europe and flows through a total of ten countries along its path.  The river is perfect for cycling, in fact there are several bike trails running along the banks.  The trails are broken into four sections, Donaueschingen-Passau, Passau-Vienna, Vienna-Budapest and Budapest-Black Sea, altogether totaling an impressive 2,875 km.  The atmosphere is peaceful and the views are exquisite.  See our cycling tour along the Danube from Passau to Vienna!

Vienna

Austria’s capital, this world famous city was recently ranked number one for quality of life by the Economist Intelligence Unit.  The culturally rich city is bustling with things to do and see, including over a hundred museums, architectural masterpieces like the palaces of the Hofburg and Schönbrunn and several residences once owned by Beethoven himself.  Vienna is also home to the world’s oldest zoo, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn.  A ride through Vienna gives the truly unique experience of seeing the past and the present merged perfectly together.  But be sure to leave some extra time – there’s so much to do you won’t want to miss anything.

Wachau

A peaceful, welcoming valley, Wachau is home to many historical structures and architectural works.  In fact, the region has been named a UNESCO heritage site.  The area is perhaps best known for the fine wines produced there, particularly the Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners.  An agricultural gold mine, Wachau grows apricots and grapes used in the production of wine and specialty liquors.  It’s also home to more than 5,000 fascinating historical monuments, including The Benedictine abbey of Melk.  For cycling enthusiasts, this region provides the perfect combination of riding terrain and sites of interest.

Music

It’s no secret that Vienna is considered the European capital of classical music.  Ever hear of a composer named Mozart?  He was born in Austria, along with Strauss, Schubert and Haydn.  Additionally, Beethoven spent quite a bit of time there, even owning several properties.  From classical to jazz, to pop and rock, to the more traditional genres of yodeling and folk style Schrammelmusik, music is still an intricate part of the Austrian culture, and you will see (and hear) testaments to it just about everywhere you go.

Salzburg

Forget individual locations, the entire Old Town of Salzburg has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.  This charming little town is the birthplace of Mozart and you may also recognize it as the setting for the popular movie “The Sound of Music”.  There is plenty of history to see in Salzburg, including Hohensalzburg Castle, Salzburg Cathedral and St. Peter’s Abbey to name a few.  If you are biking through in July or August, stop in and enjoy the Salzburg music festival for some authentic sounds and culture.

Trying to decide where to head for your next cycling adventure?  What’s your fancy?  Is it ancient architecture or fascinating history?  How about fine wine and delectable cuisine?  Or, perhaps you are looking for a place that offers relaxing spas and peaceful landscapes.  Austria offers all of this and so much more.   These are just five of the countless reasons you should choose Austria for your next journey.  What will your reasons be?

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