Whether you’re dreaming of pedaling or hiking, here’s how to choose a tour that fits—and why preparation is key, even if you’re riding with the boost of an e-bike.

Start with the Right Difficulty Level 🧭 

Our tours are rated from Level 1 (easiest) to Level 5 (most challenging), based on terrain, elevation gain, distance, and surface conditions. A Level 2 tour might feature rolling countryside and shorter daily rides, while Level 3 and 4 tours include sustained climbs and longer distances. We also use hybrid ratings like 3-4 or 3+ to indicate tours that fall between levels.

Due to the natural topography of the areas in which we operate, the majority of our tours are rated between Level 3 and 4.

👉 Explore our full difficulty rating system

Why Training on Stationary Bikes Isn’t Enough

Training on a stationary bike is a good start—but it doesn’t fully prepare you for the demands of real-world riding. Outdoor cycling builds:

• Muscle memory for shifting, braking, and handling
• Balance and core strength for uneven terrain and descents
• Endurance for sustained climbs and longer days
• Confidence in managing weather, surfaces, navigation, and sharing the road with light vehicular traffic

To get the most out of your tour, we recommend riding outdoors at least 2–3 times per week, gradually increasing distance and elevation. If you’re using an e-bike, train with it to understand battery life, pedal-assist settings, how it handles on hills and gravel, and get used to its weight.

The Dangers of Not Training Properly

• 🚫 Loss of control on gravel, cobblestones, or wet roads
• 🚫 Overconfidence on descents or tight turns
• 🚫 Misjudging distances or battery life on e-bikes
• 🚫 Muscle fatigue that affects reaction time and decision-making
• 🚫 Injury-causing crashes or collisions with others
• 🚫 Improper technique that results in damage to the bikes

Training outdoors helps build the reflexes, balance, and terrain awareness that stationary bikes simply can’t replicate. It’s not just about fitness—it’s about being safe, confident, and in control.

E-Bikes Help—But They Don’t Replace Cycling Fitness 🚴‍♂️ 

E-bikes are a fantastic tool for making climbs more manageable and extending your range. But let’s be clear: they don’t do all the work for you. You’ll still need to pedal, balance, shift gears, and navigate changing terrain. That means cycling fitness is still required, especially on multi-day tours with varied surfaces and elevation.

Even with an e-bike, riding on unfamiliar roads, navigating descents, and managing changing surfaces requires real-world cycling experience. Without it, riders are more prone to falls, collisions, and fatigue-related mistakes.

Ask Yourself:

• Are you cycling regularly on an e-bike, navigating a mix of terrains, handling climbs, and building endurance?
• Are you comfortable riding on quieter roads shared with vehicular traffic and the occasional busier connector section?
• Are you strong enough to balance and manage a heavier bike for extended periods of time or in varying weather and while navigating an unfamiliar route?
• Can you do this multiple days in a row, sometimes in inclement weather, such as wind or rain?
• Can you move the bike each night, whether to a special storage area, into your hotel room, or even on and off a train?

These aren’t just logistical questions—they’re safety questions. If the answer is “not yet,” that’s okay. It just means your training plan needs to include real-world practice with your gear and conditions that mimic your tour.

Preparation = Joy 💪 

The more prepared you are, the more you’ll enjoy the journey. Training isn’t just about avoiding fatigue—it’s about feeling strong, confident, and ready to soak in every moment. Whether you’re riding through vineyards or hiking alpine trails, your adventure should feel like a celebration—not a struggle.

So take the time to train, choose the right level, and reach out to us if you’re unsure. We’re here to help you find the perfect fit—and make your next adventure unforgettable!

View our Difficulty Rating System

Contact us to plan your next adventure!

The post Choosing the Right Tour: Understanding Difficulty Levels & Why Training Still Matters (Even with an E-Bike) appeared first on Pure Adventures.

We wholeheartedly love Eagle Creek gear for its exceptional quality, innovative design, and dependability—perfect companions for the adventurous spirit! Their products are thoughtfully crafted to make travel easier and more organized, ensuring you can focus on the journey ahead. We’re thrilled to recommend Eagle Creek to our customers and even offer an exclusive discount, purely to enhance your travel experience. And rest assured, we receive no commission—our recommendation comes solely from our genuine trust in their gear and our desire to share the best with you.

About Eagle Creek

With nearly 50 years of adventure travel experience, Eagle Creek knows a thing or two about
what it takes to prepare for a Pure Adventures trip. Since 1975, the team at Eagle Creek has logged more miles and cleared more customs than anyone in the business. And all that hard-won insight is built into everything they make, from duffels to luggage, to packing cubes, and more. Every item is thoughtfully crafted to dial in your travel system, giving you more room, more organization, and more time to focus on the adventure at hand. 

Pack Like A Pro, For This And Every Trip

The Eagle Creek Pack-It® system enhances the efficiency of any trip, so you can make room for spontaneity and stay prepared for the unexpected. Built with durable, recycled materials, Pack-It® cubes maximize space and organize all your items, so you can grab what you need and hit the road. 

Keep smaller items, like chargers, neatly tucked away while maintaining accessibility with the Pack-It® E-Tools Pro. Separate dirty items, like shoes, from clean clothes with the Pack-It® Reveal Shoe Sack. Stow daily essentials mess-free with the Pack-It® Trifold Toiletry Kit. 

We’ve used the Pack-It® System on countless biking and hiking trips, and it’s a definite packing win!

Luggage For The Long Haul: Packing Light

Once you’ve got your gear squared away, get to and from this (or any) destination with the help of the road-tested Gear Warrior Carry-On, which maintains all the function in a smaller, conveniently carried-on piece of luggage. This is our go-to carryon, which even works in the overhead bins of smaller jets!

Made from 100% recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is designed to thrive in crowded trains, airport lines, and even while negotiating that rough path to your hike-in cabana. The multi-directional wheels make maneuvering a breeze, while the expansion panel provides additional space for whatever souvenirs you purchase along the way. Keep your electronics safe in the exterior laptop sleeve and easily organize your smaller items with the interior pockets. With reinforced corners and a durable handle system on top of the rest of its features, you know you’re getting a carry-on that is built to last.

Get Packing for your Bike Tour!

Pack anything, take it anywhere, and see everything. With Eagle Creek, experience is already built in. Current Pure Adventures customers (2025 travellers), contact us for a unique Eagle Creek discount code!

For a complete packing list for self-guided bike tours or self-guided hiking tours, click here.

Planning a Trip?

Planning a self-guided hiking tour or self-guided biking tour? Looking for a private guided multisport adventure for the family? Let our team of travel experts get you started on planning your dream trip. Visit our site to browse our unique, hand-crafted adventure options, always with guaranteed private departures!

The post Bike Tour Packing with Eagle Creek: Our Favorite Gear appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Bike Tour Gear Essentials

When it comes to your self-guided bike tour, the right cycling gear is non-negotiable. Start with high-quality padded bike shorts to cushion your ride and a moisture-wicking cycling jersey that keeps you cool and visible. A lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker is a must-have, as weather conditions can change quickly. Pair these with durable cycling gloves for added grip and protection, and, of course, you may prefer to bring your own helmet and pedals, for comfort and familiarity. If your self-guided cycling tour includes using your smartphone for navigation, pack a universal handlebar mount and a backup battery or portable charger to stay connected and on track.

Clothing Tips for Comfort and Versatility

Packing light yet practical clothing is key to any successful self-guided bike tour. Opt for versatile pieces that can double up for both cycling and casual outings. For warmer climates, bring breathable T-shirts, convertible pants or shorts, and a hat for sun protection. If your route takes you to cooler areas or involves evening exploration, include long-sleeve shirts, a fleece jacket, and a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Many self-guided cycling tours include stops at charming local eateries or cultural spots, so pack a smart-casual outfit to make the most of these opportunities.

Accessories for Self-Guided Cycling Convenience

Accessories can make all the difference during a bike tour. A small saddlebag or daypack is ideal for carrying essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, a reusable water bottle, and snacks. A personal first aid kit should include plasters, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. Other useful items for your self-guided bike tour include insect repellent, a bandana or cap for extra sun protection, and a waterproof cover for your belongings. To document your adventure, bring a compact camera or make sure your smartphone has ample storage and battery power.

Luggage and Organization

We wholeheartedly love Eagle Creek gear for its exceptional quality, innovative design, and dependability—perfect companions for the adventurous spirit! Their products are thoughtfully crafted to make travel easier and more organized, ensuring you can focus on the journey ahead. We’re thrilled to recommend Eagle Creek to our customers and even offer an exclusive discount, purely to enhance your travel experience. And rest assured, we receive no commission—our recommendation comes solely from our genuine trust in their gear and our desire to share the best with you. Pack anything, take it anywhere, and see everything. With Eagle Creek, experience is already built in.

Current Pure Adventures customers (2025 travellers only), contact us for a unique Eagle Creek discount code!

Practical Packing Tips for Your Bike Tour Packing List

On a self-guided cycling tour, packing light is just as important as packing right. Many bike tours include luggage transfer services, so plan to carry only the essentials while you ride. Choose multi-functional clothing, such as pants that convert to shorts, to save space. Quick-dry materials are helpful for minimizing laundry needs. Pack toiletries in travel-sized containers to reduce bulk, and use packing cubes to keep everything organized. Consider bringing a small toolkit with essentials like a tire patch kit, multi-tool, and spare tubes, just in case.

Final Thoughts

A self-guided bike tour offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace, and thoughtful packing ensures you’re fully prepared for every moment. Use this bike tour packing list and packing tips to gear up for an unforgettable journey. By focusing on comfort, efficiency, and adaptability, you’ll be ready to fully embrace the adventure, whether you’re tackling scenic trails, charming villages, or bustling cityscapes. So, pack smartly, hop on your bike, and let the joy of self-guided cycling tours lead the way! Happy pedaling!

Check out our complete self-guided bike tour packing guide here!

Italy Self-Guided Bike Tours

France Self-Guided Bike Tours

Spain Self-Guided Bike Tours

and more!

Ready to start planning your dream self-guided bike tour? Let us help! Our team of passionate experts is ready to share their insights and guide you to an unforgettable adventure! Contact us today to start planning your next self-guided bike tour!

The post Pure Adventures’ Self-Guided Bike Tour Packing Tips appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Welcome to Puglia, Italy’s hidden gem. Nestled in the heel of Italy’s boot, this region is a paradise for food lovers. Puglia, also known as Apulia, is a culinary treasure trove. It’s a place where food is a celebration of life, tradition, and local bounty. From the whitewashed hill towns to the sun-kissed coastline, Puglia offers a unique dining experience. Here, you’ll find a rich tapestry of flavors, shaped by the land and the sea.

This guide will take you on a gastronomic journey through Puglia. We’ll explore the best local restaurants, where authentic cuisine and warm hospitality go hand in hand.

Whether it’s a family-run trattoria or a Michelin-starred restaurant, the focus is always on quality, authenticity, and flavor. So, get ready to savor the best of Puglia’s culinary delights.  Your table awaits in Puglia, Italy!

Discover Puglia’s Culinary Delights

Puglia’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. It’s a place where age-old traditions meet the freshest local ingredients. From the olive groves to the azure sea, Puglia’s landscape is a larder, brimming with natural bounty.

Why Puglia’s Cuisine is Unique

Puglia’s cuisine is a testament to its rich history and diverse landscape. From the hearty dishes of the inland areas to the fresh seafood of the coastal towns, each meal tells a story. The region’s fertile soil and mild climate make it a haven for olive groves, vineyards, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.

The Puglian kitchen is a place of innovation, yet deeply rooted in tradition. It’s where age-old recipes are passed down through generations, and where chefs continue to create dishes that celebrate the region’s unique flavors. It’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss.

Top Picks for Authentic Cuisine in Puglia

Puglia is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Each town has its own unique flavors and dining experiences. Let’s explore some of the top picks for authentic cuisine in this region.

Alberobello: Trulli Delicious Dining

Alberobello, known for its iconic UNESCO-awarded trulli houses, offers a unique dining experience. The local restaurants serve traditional Puglian dishes, often cooked in wood-fired ovens.

The rustic, home-style cooking is a reflection of the town’s rich history. Don’t miss out on the local specialty, “orecchiette al ragù di braciole“, a pasta dish with meat sauce. Top restaurant: Evo Ristorante

Matera: Cave Restaurants and Ancient Flavors

Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its ancient cave dwellings. Many of these caves have been transformed into unique dining spaces. The local cuisine is a blend of traditional flavors and innovative culinary techniques. Be sure to try the “crapiata“, a hearty soup made with legumes and grains. Top restaurant: Ego Ristorante or Baccanti Ristorante

Lecce: Baroque and Gastronomy

Lecce, often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’, is a city of art and gastronomy. Its baroque architecture provides a stunning backdrop for its vibrant culinary scene. The city is famous for its “rustico leccese“, a savory pastry filled with mozzarella, tomato, and béchamel. It’s a must-try when in Lecce.  Top restaurant: Bros’

Otranto: Seafood with a View

Otranto, a charming coastal town, offers fresh seafood with a view. The restaurants here serve a variety of dishes, from grilled fish to seafood pasta. Don’t leave without trying the “risotto ai frutti di mare“, a creamy risotto with a mix of local seafood. It’s a true taste of the Mediterranean. Top restaurant: Retro Gusto

Seasonal and Local: Puglia’s Food Philosophy

In Puglia, the food philosophy is all about seasonal and local. The region’s fertile soil and sunny climate produce a bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains. These ingredients form the backbone of Puglian cuisine.

Restaurants in Puglia take pride in using locally sourced ingredients. From the olive oil to the wine, everything is produced within the region. This “zero kilometer” approach ensures the freshness of the food and supports local farmers. It’s a win-win for the palate and the planet.

A Taste of Puglia’s Street Food

Puglia’s street food scene is a culinary adventure in itself. From bustling markets to quiet alleyways, you’ll find vendors selling delicious bites that reflect the region’s rich food culture. Try the “panzerotti“, a deep-fried turnover filled with tomato and mozzarella. Or savor the “sgagliozze“, crispy squares of fried polenta. These simple yet flavorful snacks are a testament to Puglia’s ability to turn humble ingredients into mouthwatering treats.

Puglia’s Must-Try Dishes

When in Puglia, there are certain dishes that you simply can’t miss. These are the flavors that define the region, the recipes passed down through generations, and the meals that locals love.

Here are a few must-try dishes:

• “Orecchiette con le cime di rapa”: Ear-shaped pasta with turnip tops.
• “Fave e cicoria”: Fava bean puree with chicory.
• “Bombette pugliesi”: Rolled meat filled with cheese and herbs.
• “Rustico leccese”: Savory pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella.
• “Pasticciotto”: Custard-filled pastry, perfect for dessert.

Wine and Dine: Puglia’s Vineyards and Pairings

Puglia’s fertile soil and sunny climate make it a haven for wine lovers. The region is known for its robust reds like Primitivo and Negroamaro, which pair perfectly with the hearty local cuisine. When dining in Puglia, don’t hesitate to ask for wine recommendations. Local restaurants often have a deep understanding of how to match their dishes with the region’s wines, enhancing your dining experience.

Dining Etiquette and Tips for Enjoying Meals Like a Local

In Puglia, dining is a leisurely affair. Meals are often long, with multiple courses, and are seen as a time to relax and enjoy good company. Don’t be surprised if your dinner starts late and lasts for hours. Embrace the laid-back pace, savor each dish, and soak in the convivial atmosphere that is so characteristic of Puglia’s dining scene.

Sustainable and Slow Food in Puglia

Puglia’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in the principles of the Slow Food movement. This approach emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Many restaurants in Puglia are committed to sustainability, often growing their own produce or sourcing from local farmers. This not only ensures the freshness of the food but also supports the local economy and reduces the environmental impact.

Planning Your Culinary Adventure: Practical Tips

When planning your culinary adventure in Puglia, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. These can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. 

Making Reservations

For popular restaurants, especially in peak tourist season, making a reservation is highly recommended. This can often be done online or over the phone.

Best Times to Dine

In line with Italian tradition, lunch is usually served from 1 pm to 2:30 pm, and dinner from 8 pm onwards. For the best experience, try to align your dining times with these local customs.

Dietary Accommodations

Many restaurants in Puglia are accommodating to dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It’s always a good idea to check in advance or communicate your needs to the staff.

Conclusion: Your Table Awaits in Puglia

In conclusion, Puglia offers a rich and diverse culinary scene that is sure to delight any food lover. From the rustic charm of Alberobello to the seafood delights of Otranto, there’s a table waiting for you in Puglia. So why wait? Start planning your Puglia adventure today!

Visit our hand-curated tours through Puglia!

• Short Escape to Puglia Self-Guided E-Bike Tour
• Puglia 4-Night Discovery Bike Tour
• Italy – Hidden Gems of Puglia 7 Night Bike Tour

All Italy Self-Guided Bike Tours with Pure Adventures

Pure Adventures tours, celebrating 30 years of hand-crafted, self-guided tour experiences! ~2024

Learn More about Pure Adventures self-guided bike tours here!

Self-Guided Italy Bike Tours
Self-Guided France Bike Tours
Self-Guided Slovenia Bike Tours
Self-Guided Spain Bike Tours

Why Pure Adventures? We’re celebrating 30 years of self-guided bike tours in 2024, with bragging rights to being one of the original pioneers of self-guided bike tours in North America. Click here to learn more!

The post Best Local Restaurants in Puglia Italy appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Travel Insurance Post-Covid: the new travel norm? Yes, this will make your future travels slightly more expensive but given the uncertainty of so much around Covid, any 2021 travel must be booked with a travel insurance policy to back it. Did you know that many countries are presently requiring proof of travel insurance to enter? There are so many articles out there about travel insurance and the constantly changing requirements that we can’t cover it all, but we can give you a tour operator/agent perspective. Check out our Travel Insurance Page!

As a tour organizer and agent for travel services who put customers first, we have always recommended travel insurance. It was never compulsory, it was an individual choice, but now things are different; the pandemic has changed this. The volume of cancellations this year is something that the industry has never before experienced. Many travel companies have closed or will close. The likelihood of disruption due to travel will continue to go up. Many disruptors come in the form of natural disasters, political instability, terrorism, and now again a transmittable virus that is a global pandemic. This will not be the last one. A choice to not protect oneself against disruption is a gamble for losing money.

Choosing not to purchase travel insurance is choosing to be ok with associated losses on travel costs and absorbing unforeseen costs. Here at Pure Adventures, we will not include the cost of travel insurance into a trip price but will leave it up to you to find the best policy for your circumstances, with our recommendations for trusted insurance providers and best offers. Our recommendations will go a little bit further and fall on the conservative side of deciding whether or not to travel. We will also require a signed waiver, should you decline to take insurance. (More on this below) At this point, we recommend that anyone booking travel in 2022 should book a “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) supplement to a baseline policy.

CFAR will provide the most flexibility around reasons for cancellation, but not 100% financial reimbursement. You must look at each company and their CFAR policy terms to know the difference, but expect that you must cancel at least 3 days in advance, and expect to get in the neighborhood of 75% reimbursement. CFAR policies could add 10-12% of your trip cost to the trip budget. [USA Today 2021 travel survival guide ] IMPORTANT: CFAR must be booked shortly after you book any travel; there is a time limit in which you can obtain this coverage!  This applies to pre-existing condition coverage as well in traditional travel insurance policies. This is step 1 before Booking – know what travel insurance you will get once you do book. 

Here are some common questions that have a heightened logic in the pandemic:

• What if I get sick while traveling?
• What if the travel company I booked through goes out of business?
• What coverage do I have for pre-existing conditions, how is it defined?
• Can I be evacuated if I’m stuck or forced into Quarantine?

These questions and more are answered by each insurance carrier. Here is one trustworthy resource: InsureMyTrip.com

As mentioned above, should you be traveling with us at Pure Adventures and you decline travel insurance, we will require a signed waiver. The waiver will state that you accept whatever losses may come about due to cancellation, trip interruption, or circumstance that impacts your travel and that you release Pure Adventures from any responsibility to recover or reimburse those costs. And, full disclosure, Pure Adventures will retain some fees for work performed prior to the cancellation as well as the work of unwinding all travel booked that is being canceled.

We recommend these resources for your protection in the travel future:

InsureMyTrip.com: broker for numerous policy options; not just one company

Global Rescue: more than just insurance, this solution is most comprehensive and highly recommended for less developed countries and remote destinations

Travel Safe: flexible time frames with slightly better booking windows for extra coverage

World Nomads: global provider, does not cover destinations with Covid-19 travel bans or government ‘warnings’!

Trip Mate/Trip Assure: Travel Insurance provider, US-based part of Generali

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance: Travel insurance provider, US-based

No matter what path you take, read your policies, know your limits, and know your filing time frames; travel insurance post covid is not something to leave to the last minute. You alone are responsible to be aware and you do sign your understanding when you purchase travel and purchase travel insurance. Set up reminders and date limits in your planning tools.  Stay abreast of developments with border openings/closings. Stay up to date on CDC and US State Department travel information. These sites provide up-to-date information on travel insurance policy coverages and exclusions.

The post Travel Insurance Post Covid is Necessary appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Re-opening of borders and the conversations for travel are starting to happen! We think it is time to take down our Covid cancel policy and start to talk about the future of travel. While we understand some people will not be ready to travel for a while still, many are ready to go now. Travel in the next 6-12 months is a personal choice and many new safety measures are being put in place or are already there. We have heard about the efforts of the airlines and are learning more about hotels and so on, and we want to communicate this to you as well.

I have been on airplanes lately and I have to report that it was a pleasant experience. I appreciated the efforts of United Airlines to hand out masks and encourage their use as well as handing out disinfecting wipes. Nearly all passengers wore their own masks. An interesting statistic shows airline air to be as clean as hospital operating rooms. Here is an article about air travel in the New York Times.

So, what can you expect once you arrive? Hotels and taxis as well as other transport services all have new and slightly varied systems in place to maintain hygiene and minimized virus exposure. Plexiglass is the new normal; you can expect to find it installed at hotel check-in, airport check-in, and just about everywhere you have face-to-face transactions traditionally. Hotels all vary in their daily efforts but in Portugal for example, the government is issuing a new “Clean & Safe” label to hotels and other service providers who meet recommended operational practices post-Covid. Taxis in Portugal and Italy, and probably all throughout Europe, will limit to 2 persons per car and to the back seat only. So, for larger parties, especially families, it remains to be seen if and what exceptions may be possible.

The Ubiquitous Face Mask:
You will need one. You may be required to wear it in most public places, such as going into shops, restaurants, museums, etc.  You do not have to ride or hike or be active with your mask on.

66% Occupancy:
Restaurants and Transportation are being asked to operate at this capacity number and so tables have been removed. Social distancing will be the norm everywhere.

The next big question is, “Can I arrive to my destination without quarantine?”  This is still somewhat unknown as border openings and who will be allowed to cross is an ever-changing issue. As of today, we know the following to be true:

Austria: Entry without any restrictions is now allowed to all persons from EU except for Sweden, Spain, Portugal and the UK. Travelers from these countries still have to submit a negative PCR test or enter a 14-day quarantine. Travelers from other countries are not allowed to enter Austria.

July 7: Slovenia and Norway are not yet open.

*Update 2022: Slovenia and Norway no longer have any restrictions

July 5:  Spain Ministry of Tourism Published Guidelines for the Travel Industry – our local vendors will be adhering

July 2:  Skift Report and Daily Updates to Reopening of Travel

July 1:  New York Times:  EU Travel Ban Explained

June 23:  New York Times:  EU to initially block American travelers

Norway: https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-your-trip/coronavirus-and-travelling-to-norway/

Spain: https://www.spain.info/en/reportajes/informacion-practica-turistas-covid-19-viajar-espana.html#

France: http://www.atout-france.fr/actualites/deconfinement-acte-3

Paris: https://en.parisinfo.com/practical-paris/info/guides/info-disruption-paris

Croatia:  https://croatia.hr/en-GB/coronavirus-2019-ncov-q-and-a

Italy:  http://www.italia.it/en/useful-info/guidance-standards-for-hospitality-reopening.html

Greece & Portugal Seeking Safest Destination Status

*Update 2022 for entering Greece & Portugal

European Commission Report to Restarting Travel

The post Restarting Travel and Planning for the Re-Opening of Europe appeared first on Pure Adventures.

In North America, we tend to use “walk” in the same way we’d use “stroll” – a relatively easy excursion, usually along paved roads. We reserve the term “hike” for a more challenging trek through rugged terrain. The UK and the Republic of Ireland, however, use “walk” to describe any trip on foot, whether it’s to the corner shop or up the mountainside. Particularly if you’re talking to an older person, you may also hear the terms hillwalking, rambling, or fellwalking. When you get a hot tip at the pub about a lovely walk nearby, don’t set out in sandals until you’ve asked a few followup questions about length, difficulty, etc.

For instance, the tallest of the Connemara Mountains in Ireland, which we pass through on our Hiking the Western Way tour, reaches a maximum elevation of nearly 2,400 feet. Local guides may refer to the climb as a walk, or at most a “hard walk” or “hill walk.” All the same you’ll definitely want to bring hiking boots. Even less challenging stretches of trail may require appropriate preparations and footwear if the distances warrant. Especially at higher elevations, sunny weather can turn windy or misty on fairly short notice.

So how best to prepare for a day or more of walking, Irish or UK style? Hiking boots as opposed to shoes will give you the best ankle support and be suitable for the broadest range of conditions. If you don’t intend to carry a ton of gear, though, you won’t need the stiffest, heaviest variety available, backpacking boots. Some hikers even prefer lightweight, low-cut trail runners for the comfort and speed they offer. Either way a good fit is very important, so when shopping around make sure you try your intended pair on at the end of the day after your feet have had time to swell, and while you’re wearing the type of sock you intend to bring with you. Avoid choosing a pair so tight they chafe, as you should still have room to wiggle your toes. Speaking of socks, those need to fit well too in order to avoid blistering. Choose a thickness appropriate for the season – thick enough to give you some comfy cushioning, but not so thick as to be sweltering on a warm day. Merino wool is the go-to material for most hikers, sometimes blended with synthetics for durability and faster drying.

The standard outdoorsperson advice also applies to hiking in the UK, of course. Layering a t-shirt, fleece top, and jacket allows you to peel off as you warm up or stay toasty when the weather turns. A brimmed hat and sunscreen will probably leave you feeling less fatigued at the end of the day, and a spare pair of socks never hurt. Snacks, water, and a fully charged phone are reassuring additions to any pack. Just be aware that cell reception can be spotty on some stretches of trail, so it’s always best practice to download map data in advance or bring a good old-fashioned paper map along.

Lastly, if you’re referring to any guides written on hiking in the UK, you may want to make sure you’ve read them over in advance to make sure you haven’t glossed over any more unfamiliar terms (i.e. do you know a moor when you see one? Did you know a “permissive path” is a trail on private property which the landowner has granted access to?). If you travel with Pure Adventures, our local guides will bring you up to speed on anything you might need to know about trails or points of interest. Your job is to relax, enjoy the pastoral countryside and sweeping landscape, and then put your feet up after a long day’s ramble up hill and down dale. 

See all of Pure Adventure’s offerings in Ireland and the UK here.

The post Walking vs. Hiking: Setting out on Foot in the UK appeared first on Pure Adventures.

Wine is an important part of the culture of many of our destinations: France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Chile and Argentina all offer vineyards of international distinction. If you’re tempted to stop off on your next custom tour but don’t know where to begin, take heart! You don’t have to be a trained sommelier to thoroughly enjoy your next wine tasting. A sense of curiosity is more important than a schooled palate, but knowing a few basic principles in advance can help you get the most out of the experience.

For wine tasting newcomers, the complexity and sophistication of the subject can seem intimidating. Remember you’re not expected to know everything coming in. Staffers are there to answer your questions, and learning about the unique characteristics of their product is half the fun. Let them bring you into the fold.

If you’re planning to stop at a winery as part of a self-guided trip, pay attention to tasting order. As a general rule you should always taste from lightest to heaviest. A red with lots of tannins will obscure the flavour of a delicate white. Same goes for food pairings. Taking the food pairing recommendations is best, but if bringing your own food is an option don’t choose bold flavours that will obscure the featured item. A delicate pinot noir that tastes exquisite on its own may taste anemic served alongside a hearty steak. Also, don’t forget that habits like coffee drinking or wearing a strong scent could confuse your palate.

If you’re pouring for yourself, don’t fill a glass more than one-third full. Any more than that and you won’t be able to swirl the glass effectively, which aerates the wine and releases its full aroma. Technique isn’t terribly important — you can even keep the base of the glass on the table and move it in circles for a few seconds. Don’t swirl until your arm goes numb but don’t worry about overdoing it either, because a wine needs to sit out for a day or two to become over-oxygenated. While you’re swirling, notice the way wine leaves stripes or “tears” down the side of the glass. If you’ve ever heard someone say a wine has legs, this is what they mean. Thick, slow tears indicate a higher sugar and alcohol content, but don’t read too deeply into it — tears are no indication of overall quality. 

Next, hold the glass to the light and tilt it. If you have a white background, even better. You’re looking for details like clarity, colour, and viscosity. As you might’ve guessed, a more opaque wine indicates a fuller body than a highly translucent wine. A slight haze is fine, but cloudiness is usually a bad sign. Also notice the way the colour grades at the edges. If it thins out drastically, the flavour might be on the weak side. A wine that shows significant browning is likely of an older vintage, unless it has simply oxidized. The details differ widely across varietals, so again don’t be afraid to ask questions.

You’re past the preamble now – time to sample the aroma. Hover your nose over the glass and take a few whiffs. The easiest scents to identify are fruity, followed by floral, herbal, or earthy notes. You might also detect hints of coffee, vanilla, smoke or other flavours derived from an oak barrel. Unpleasant smells can be indicative of flaws, like mustiness from a wine that has “corked,” but with any luck you won’t encounter these on your tasting. The permutations are limitless, so don’t overthink this step or you’ll end up confusing yourself.

Instead just take a small sip. The flavour should be pleasantly balanced between acidity, sweetness, and astringency. Acidity gives wine its gratifying tartness and is often what is being referred to when people describe a wine as “crisp.” Too little acidity causes a wine to taste flat while too much makes it taste downright sour. Personal preference plays a role here, as does food pairing – salty, fatty foods can help counterbalance high acidity. Sweetness is determined by the amount of residual sugar, but the perception of it is similarly affected by acidity. A balanced wine won’t leave a cloying impression, but won’t leave your mouth feeling parched either. Thirdly, the sensation of astringency is provided by tannins, which are derived from grape skins, stems, and seeds. They lend a wine complexity provided they don’t leave your mouth uncomfortably dry. 

An older wine is more likely to blend these qualities seamlessly, whereas in a younger wine they can sometimes feel as if they are jostling for position. If a young wine strikes you as exceptionally well-balanced, you may have real winner on your hands. Beyond these broad characteristics, a wine should evoke subtle flavour characteristics like caramel and clove.

Pay attention to texture as well. A higher alcohol content, for instance, can give wine more body for a luxurious, velvety impression on the palate. The best wines will continue to linger and evolve for a long time. Resist the urge to sip again too soon and savour the finish. It may help to take notes: verbalizing a sense impression is hard to begin with, and it doesn’t get easier the next day. Taking notes will help you remember which wines you enjoyed best, and which you might like to take home with you.

If you’re tasting multiple wines, don’t forget to cleanse your palate in between. Water is your best choice here, but you may be surprised to know the same doesn’t apply to rinsing your glass. Some experts feel water dilutes the taste of a wine, so prefer simply to refill the glass with the next variety. The exception is when switching between reds and whites or vastly different varietals, when a splash of the upcoming variety is swirled and dumped to prime the glass instead.

Beyond simply cleansing your palate, remember to pace yourself. That goes double if you’re cycling between wineries and need to stay alert. Don’t be afraid to spit out your wine in the provided receptacles. Staff won’t mind, even if you pour out the remainder of a glass you don’t intend to finish. Doing so simply allows you taste more varieties, won’t impact your enjoyment of the flavour, and keeps you safe on the road.

Fully understanding and appreciating the nuances of wine is the work of a lifetime — just ask a master vintner. The depth and breadth of the subject is enthralling, but at the end of the day wine is meant to be enjoyed. Trust your palate and drink in the surroundings. Stop at the right vineyard, and a tasting might the highlight of your next tour.

Already a seasoned wine aficionado? See our post on regionally famous varietals to try on your next trip.

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