ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Jul 15, 2013 -- Routes Bicycle Rentals & Tours (www.routesrentals.com), a bicycle rental and tour company located near historic Old Town Albuquerque, has announced their third annual ‘Bikes and Balloons’ tour to the 42nd Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (October 5 - 13).

This year Routes breaks new ground by announcing their collaboration with one of Fodor’s ‘Top 100 Hotels in the World’, Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm (www.lospoblanos.com). Participants will meet at scenic Los Poblanos and pedal to the Fiesta along the acclaimed ‘Paseo del Bosque’ bike trail along the iconic Rio Grande River. Tour Guests will have the unique opportunity to view the early morning Dawn Patrol (weather testing) hot-air balloons from the river trail, witnessing an impressive aerial light show seldom experienced by visitors.

Now in their third year, ‘Bikes and Balloons’ is the first professionally-led bicycle tour to the Balloon Fiesta. The tour includes bike rentals, water bottles, unique photo opportunities, VIP bike valet parking, and admission to the event through a dedicated pedestrian gate which bypasses the congestion historically faced by motorists. At the conclusion of the morning events, participants will experience the striking autumn colors of New Mexico along the Rio Grande and enjoy a guided tour of Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm. ‘Bikes and Balloons’ may be customized with a number of amenities including a healthy, locally-made breakfast from the chef at Los Poblanos, room packages at the Inn, extended bicycle rentals, and local souvenirs.

As the ‘most photographed event in the world’, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest ballooning event in the world, and daily crowds often exceed 100,000 people. Due to heavy traffic and long lines, those who commute by automobile frequently miss a complete view of Dawn Patrol and the Mass Ascension of over 700 hot-air balloons – which begins at 7AM and proceeds in waves.

“We are pleased to partner with Los Poblanos and offer a healthful, beautiful, and sustainable way for people to experience the magic of this event”, said Heather Wess Arnold, who owns and operates Routes Rentals & Tours with her husband, Josh. “Albuquerque is known for exceptional cycling and breath-taking views. This tour showcases our city’s culture, bike trails, and the natural beauty of the Rio Grande River State Park [Bosque] in an entirely new and stunning way”.

Guests can purchase tickets for the ‘Bikes and Balloons’ tour on the Routes Rentals & Tours website by clicking the ‘Book Now’ button next to their preferred tour date (http://www.routesrentals.com/albuquerque-balloon-fiesta-bike-tours-abq.html), or by calling 505-933-5667 during business hours. Complimentary on-site parking is available for tour participants at Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Farm. Packages begin at $50. Guests who wish to purchase a ‘Bikes and Balloons Room Package’ inclusive of the tour experience, breakfast, and convenient on-site lodging at the award-winning Los Poblanos Historic Inn can reserve online through the Los Poblanos website (www.lospoblanos.com) or by calling 505-344-9297.