Routes is pleased to present the 2015 Bikes and Balloons experience in 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 travel to the Fiesta via the acclaimed Paseo del Bosque bike trail along the Rio Grande River. Bikes and Balloons offers guests a unique opportunity to view the early morning Dawn Patrol (weather testing) hot air balloons from the bike trail, an impressive aerial light show seldom experienced by visitors.
Now in its fifth year, Bikes and Balloons is the only professionally-led bicycle tour to the Balloon Fiesta. All tour packages include bike rentals, water bottles, unique photo opportunities, VIP bike valet parking, and admission to the event through a dedicated pedestrian gate that bypasses the congestion historically faced by motorists. At the conclusion of the morning events, participants will experience the striking autumn colors and vistas of New Mexico by bicycle, and enjoy an optional guided tour of the acclaimed architecture and gardens at Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm. Bikes and Balloons may be customized with a number of amenities including breakfast options, room packages, extended bicycle rentals, and local souvenirs.
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the ‘most photographed single event' and 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 600 hot-air balloons - which begins at 7AM and proceeds in waves.
"We are honored to continue our partnership with Los Poblanos to offer a healthful, beautiful, and sustainable way for people to experience the magic of this event", said Heather Arnold, who owns and operates Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals with her husband, Josh. "Albuquerque is known for exceptional cycling and breathtaking views. These tours showcase our city's culture, bike trails, and the natural beauty of the Sandia Mountains and the Rio Grande Valley in an entirely new and stunning way".
Guests can purchase tickets for the Bikes and Balloons tour on the Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals website by clicking the ‘Book Now' button next to their preferred tour date (http://routesrentals.com/blogroll/tours/specialty-bike-tours-abq/albuquerque-balloon-fiesta-bike-tour/). Complimentary on-site parking is available for all tour participants. Packages begin at $65, and guests should note this is an intermediate-level tour experience.
Guests who wish to purchase a ‘Bikes and Balloons B&B Package' inclusive of the tour, 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.