Looking for a good cycling spot

I am thinking on going riding (road or tri bike) from march 16-21. I live in so cal, but just looking to get away for a week and train.

I was thinking on going to Kona, and got quoted a pretty good price (1700$ for two people total…including air hotel and car). I am just not sure if I want to drop that much $$$ with three ironmans coming up this summer. I was also thinking on arizona. The plus of Kona would be the cycling, running and open water swimming. Not much of the swimming in Az. The swimming is not a must, I am more looking for a cycling vacation.

I know some of you St’ers have some “secret” spots. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

Southern part of the Smoky Mountains National park. Will be riding in 3 states (TN, NC and a little in GA). 5,000 ft. climbs over 7 miles long, zero traffic, great people, cheap lodging. Doesn’t get any better!

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Tellico+Plains,+TN&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=35.219929,56.601563&ie=UTF8&ll=35.391289,-83.739166&spn=0.283241,0.4422&t=p&z=11