South Africa's Top Ten Attractions Photo Gallery

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5) Rajasthan, India
Rajasthan’s royal kitchens turned the preparation of food into an art form, cooking scarce meats with elaborate curries, dried fruits, and yogurt. Sleep in palaces and feast on some of India’s finest cuisine in towns such as Umaid Bhawan, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.

Planning: This is an easy route. Bikes can be rented in most towns if you want to devise your own tour. www.butterfield.com, www.rajasthantourism.gov.in

4) The Golden Triangle, Thailand
Sample the cuisine of northern Thailand, with its liberal use of spices, curries, and noodles prepared with fresh local ingredients, on a tour that starts in Chiang Mai and visits hill-tribe communities en route to the ancient Burmese kingdom of Chiang Saen. Pedal past jungle valleys and boat-dotted rivers, eating in local restaurants, and taking in markets and an optional cooking class.

Planning: The route goes along rural roads with some climbing. www.backroads.com, www.tourismthailand.org

3) Salta Province, Argentina
Beginning in colonial Salta, visit ancient Cachi, remote Estancia Colome—featuring a private tasting of its high-altitude wines—and picturesque afayate, the hub of Salta’s wine-making business. Gaucho barbecues and a regional cuisine of corn-based Locro stew, tamales, and lots of desserts, are complemented by the Malbecs and Torrontés of the province’s vineyards.

Planning: The route involves some hard cycling at high altitudes. www.backroads.com, www.argentina.ar, www.turismosalta.gov.ar

2) Sonoma and Napa Valleys, California
Vine-covered hills, redwood groves, and sprawling farmlands provide perfect cycling country. Follow Sonoma’s backroads in the Dry Creek, Alexander, and Knights Valleys, stopping to taste the wines and the best of California’s farm-to-table cuisine. Then move on to Napa Valley’s winery-lined Silverado Trail and stay in St. Helena, sampling locally raised lamb, cheeses, and seafood.

Planning: Some tours start from San Francisco; or stay in the area and book tours by the day. www.duvine.com, www.sonomacounty.com

1) Blue Ridge, Virginia,
Tucked away in Virgina’s vineyard-dotted farmland awaits a land of gastronomic pleasure. After a gourmet breakfast, head out to the region’s wineries, and return to a sumptuous dinner in the evening. Some tours include an evening at the Inn at Little Washington, which invented such signature dishes as veal Shenandoah and timbale of Maryland crabmeat.

Planning: Base yourself at the Foster Harris House B&B. www.tourdepicure.com, www.virginia.org