Twenty years on from the fall of Communism, Hungary remains one of Eastern Europe’s most mysterious and intriguing enigmas. Hungarian is said to be one of Europe’s most impenetrable languages, but from a bike, nothing is lost in translation. Launching from pulsating Budapest, we move to the shores of Lake Balaton—Europe’s largest—and one of Hungary’s most important wine-growing regions (this is your chance to try local varietals such as kardarka or kekfrankos). Next, it’s on to the undulating tapestry of fields around Tolna to the south. Our last stop is at stately Hertelendy Kastély, where rolling grassland and stables testify to a grand equestrian tradition. And wrapping back at the capital, you’ll be able to explore Buda and Pest until your heart’s content. Some secrets are too good to keep to yourself. Spread the word.

Day 1 Cycle along bike paths bordering Lake Balaton, Europe’s largest, before a Michelin-starred dinner
Day 2 Tackle a Century Ride in one of Hungary’s most important wine-growing regions
Day 3 Savour a spread of regional fare—including delicious Mangalica sausage and Hungary’s underrated wines—at a hidden winery
Day 4 Enjoy some of the best biking of the trip in the Tolna wine country
Day 5 Picnic beside the ruins of Somssich Kastely during a countryside ride
Day 6 Relax in the tasteful opulence of Hertelendy Kastély, a stately Swiss-run manor with its own “biogarden” of organic vegetables and cheeses Day 7 Breakfast in Kutas, then vislát in Budapest