Page 35 - Explore Magazine Autumn 2017

33

CYCLE IRAN WITH SPICEROADS THE RAW, WILD AND FASCINATING ARCTIC
The Arctic is a fascinating part of the planet that offers an
SpiceRoads Cycle Tours has a new addition to its itinerary options: exciting and dramatic holiday experience. In this immense and
“The Jewels of Persia by Bicycle”, in Iran. spectacular wilderness region you are at the mercy of the wind,
ocean and ice. Australian-based Peregrine Adventures aims to set
Iran is an emerging destination and one of the top go-to places for the industry benchmark for minimum environmental impact and
intrepid adventurers. With a history that spans thousands of years, the most stringent safety practices.
Iran boasts fascinating historic sites as well as varied landscapes
that provide a perfect setting for cycling through this once- One itinerary option is to explore the wild Canadian Arctic by day
restricted country. and then come home to a comfortable base at the Arctic Watch
Wilderness Lodge. Stuated on the northern tip of Somerset Island
The Jewels of Persia by Bicycle is a 15-day, moderately challenging on the shores of the Northwest Passage, it is the world’s most
cycling tour that takes travellers along a beautiful route through northerly and most remote lodge and a world-class beluga whale
Central Iran, exploring the country’s cultural heartland and visiting observation site.
key historical sites. It begins in Shiraz and ends in the Iranian capital
of Tehran. This eight-day adventure offers the full Arctic safari experience,
with guided activities and extraordinary wildlife sightings during the
The ride is primarily on paved roads but incorporates the variety of 24 hours of summer daylight. After an overnight stay in Yellowknife,
natural environments the region has to offer including mountains and fly to Nunavut on Somerset Island and transfer to the lodge.
hills as well as valley flatlands. There are a few challenging climbs as
well as some fast, sweeping descents, and a short off-road section. Each day brings the chance of new wildlife sightings including beluga
whales, ringed seals, polar bears, roaming musk oxen, Arctic foxes,
Itinerary Highlights: Beginning the journey in Shiraz, the capital of snowy owls and more. Learn to drive all-terrain vehicles, try your
Iranian poetry. Wandering the still-standing ruins of Persepolis, hand at kayaking among icebergs, navigate the gentle Cunningham
once the richest city on earth. Strolling through the famous gardens River rapids on a raft and fish for Arctic char at Inukshuk Lake.
of Isfahan. Discovering Zoroastrian influences in Yazd. Camping
underneath the star-filled desert sky for two nights. Gazing in awe at The Cunningham River estuary is a beluga whale migration site
the splendor of Persian mosques. Spending two nights in traditional and so close to the lodge that you can see whales from the
riverbank. Come home with unique photos and a lifetime of
caravanserai (travellers’ inns) along the Silk Road.
stories about the Canadian Arctic.

HELLOWORLD : EXPLORE : AUTUMN EDITION