Bike Oregon Wine Country While Helping Local Schools

Rides are held every Sunday in August 2006.

Salem-News.com

(RICKREALL) - The people who run Eola Hills Winery in Rickreall have several fun bicycle trips planned for Willamette Valley fans this summer.

The winery`s Eric Rogers says it is a fun and healthy way to enjoy the natural area, while sampling some of the valley`s finest wines, `Being avid cyclist ourselves, we decided to organize a bike tour in the mid 90's. That ride has now evolved into `Bike Oregon Wine Country.`

When people join in the Eola Hills Wine Cellars for the premier bicycle tour through Oregon Wine Country, they benefit area kids, `For every purchase of Eola Hills Wine, a donation will be made to support Oregon schools through Eola Hills' Oregon Education Assistance Fund."

Bike Oregon Wine Country is a fully supported ride that takes cyclist through the scenic Eola Hills and Mid-Willamette Valley Wine Country. Surrounded by lush vineyards and picturesque countryside, Rogers says the various routes offer both short and long loops, which range between 30 to 70 miles. Day rides leave every Sunday in August 2006.

All rides start and finish at Eola Hills Wine Cellars in Rickreall, Oregon, but the route varies each weekend. Lunch is provided at one of many participating wineries, and all wine purchased in-route is transported back to Eola Hills by one of the group`s support vehicles.

A barbecue is provided at the end of the trip and those who choose to return early can enjoy a brunch that is served during the first part of the day.

Bike Routes

Northern Route -- August 6th & 20th: This cycling event is unlike any other in Oregon. It combines the romance and beauty of the Oregon wine country with the adventure of a 30 or 52-mile bike ride. Bike Oregon Wine Country is a moderate to difficult ride depending on the cyclists' skill level. The route takes the cyclists through the scenic Eola Hills. Surrounded by lush vineyards and picturesque countryside, the ride consists of gradual rolling hills combined with several steep hills. The Eola Hills staff will guide the cyclists through seven of the areas local wineries. Support vehicles are provided for any wine purchases or to give guests a lift. The day ends with wine tasting at Eola Hills and a salmon BBQ next to our Eola Hill`s waterfall and Koi pond. Box lunches and refreshments are also provided during the event. Bike Oregon Wine Country takes place every Sunday in August. The ride begins at 8am at Eola Hills and generally finishes between 4:00 and 5:00 pm.

Southern Route -- August 13th & 27th: The southern route is an easy to moderate ride that consists of flat stretches and gentle rolling hills. There is a 30-mile short loop option as well as a 70-mile loop for riders who would like more of a challenge. Highlights of the southern route include stops at two wineries, a covered bridge and a ferry ride across the Willamette River. Like the northern route, the ride is fully supported by Eola Hills staff and includes water stops and a lunch stop.

Cost is $65 per person (There is a 2 for 1 special through June 4th).Call 800-291-6730 (503-623-2405) or reserve online at: Oregon Events and Entertainment Near Portland and Salem