Meals on Wheels
American readers might
not know that a beano is "a merry time or spree" that
derives its fanciful name from an 18th century English workers'
holiday, according to the Oxford English Dictionary. Yet, many
who enjoy traveling by pedal power already know that the best
beano could be that which you'll find while seated firmly on
the saddle of a well-built bicycle. True to its name, Bicycle
Beano specializes in excursions that allow cyclists to explore
the idyllic landscape of England and Wales and enjoy delicious
home-cooked vegetarian cuisine without missing a stroke.
Bicycle
Beano's fun and friendly guides, Jane Barnes and Rob Green,
lead enchanting two-wheeled tours through Snowdonia National
Park, the Wye Valley and the Welsh Borders. Tour group sizes
range from 16 to 28 cyclists of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
Barnes and Green live in the area and have been presenting beanos
for the past 24 years. They know the best times of day to ride
and where to find the most spectacular views and points of interest.
Specially designed route maps and directions let cyclists take
in the breathtaking scenery with a group or solo, and sail along
peaceful lanes that meander through green valleys and beside
spectacular seascapes. Along the way are stops at ancient castles,
historic churches, pristine coastal beaches and picturesque
seaside villages.
After a day of riding,
cyclists pass the evening relaxing in comfortable accommodation
with other Beano guests. Depending on the tour, nights could
be spent in a stately Georgian mansion, a restored Victorian
country home, or a renovated watermill with flagstone floors.
At some venues, produce from gardens right on the grounds provides
fresh, organic fare for the mouthwatering meals served mornings
and evenings. Dinner might include Greek moussaka, Chinese stir-fry
noodles or hazelnut roast with all the trimmings, and vegan
meals are available if arranged in advance.
"The meals were
well-prepared, filling and delicious," exclaims Beano veteran
Sanjay Gupta. That's good, because you're sure to build up a
healthy appetite pedaling your way through the British countryside.
