Days 1-2
After traveling from hip and artsy Santa Barbara, pedal into the pine- and chaparral-covered mountains of the Santa Ynez Valley for view of vineyards, ranchland and rolling countryside. Hop off your bike and sample Syrah made from the region's oldest vines. Savor a bountiful picnic at one of the area's wineries. A pastoral inland route leads past orchards, impeccably manicured vineyards and ranches bordered by endless white fences. The town of Los Olivos welcomes us with charming Victorian architecture, an eclectic art scene and friendly tasting rooms. Roadside lavender farms provide a splash of color (and aroma!) along the way. Be sure to allow for some pool and spa time back at the hotel.
Day 3
Cruise on a scenic bike path, enjoying sun, surf and pristine Santa Barbara beaches. Pedal through historic Hope Ranch. Head to the hills and spin above the red-tiled roofs of Santa Barbara. Visit Old Mission Santa Barbara and its meticulously manicured grounds. Soak up the scene in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, filled with galleries, surf shops, a distillery and brewery, and some of the region's best wine-tasting rooms.
Days 4
Ride along the Pacific Ocean, keeping an eye out for seals and surfers along the way. Enjoy a signature Backroads picnic among oak trees. Bike along the Ojai Valley Trail, a bike pathway that connects the seaside town of Ventura with the desert oasis of Ojai. Enjoy a wine tasting at our elegant resort, go for a swim or indulge in a famous Ojai spa treatment.
Day 5-6
Discover delightful Ojai, a flower-filled city brimming with small-town charm. Savor the sweet smell of citrus as you pedal along quiet back roads, passing groves of Pixie tangerines. Stroll through Ojai's art galleries and browse its outdoor bookstore. Taste olive oil and learn about the production at a local olive oil farm. Behold the Topatopa Bluffs at sunset.
