Taste of Tuscany ~ Self-Guided Tours
May to October ~ $1595

Tuscany has long been an expression of the Italian dream. Our self-guided adventure offers quiet roads, cypress-covered hills and inspiring views of this famous and charming region of Italy.

Day 1 - Arrive at Montopoli Val d’Arno, a classic Tuscan hilltop village midway between Pisa and Florence. You’ll be welcomed by Luigi and Fulvia at our charming headquarters hotel, known for its Renaissance ambience and Slow Food restaurant. Assemble your bike and store your case, then take a warm-up ride through the local hills or relax in the garden by the swimming pool, taking in the view of the valley.

Day 2 - Pedal east along the edge of the Arno valley on peaceful country roads through magical Tuscan terrain. Pause for a leisurely pranzo toscano, marvel at the magical views, and perhaps taste some wine. Then pedal south through the Chianti hills toward Colle Val d’Elsa, the crystal capital of Italy and our lodging in a historic restored paper mill.

Day 3 - The famed village of San Gimignano makes an ideal espresso stop on today’s ride west. Take a short morning loop and spend the afternoon shopping and sightseeing in Colle Val d'Elsa, or spend the full day riding -- working up an appetite for dinner, perhaps at the Michelin-starred Arnolfo?

Day 4 - The Gallo Nero, symbol of Chianti Classico appears often on this ride through vineyards and forests where beautiful vistas appear around every bend as you wind along hillcrests toward the Etruscan and Roman hilltop city of Volterra. Leave time to visit the ruins and enjoy some refreshing gelato before wandering among medieval vicoli in search of that perfect trattoria.

Day 5 - Head north for a loop among peaceful, cypress crowned hills, stopping for a lunch of crostini misti and pappa al pomodoro while taking in the view of distant hilltop villages. A shorter ride will leave time to explore Volterra’s museums, or to browse local artisan’s workshops for their famed alabaster and jewelry.

Day 6 - Your final ride heads northwest and you might catch a glimpse of the Ligurian Sea before winding your way back to Montopoli. Roll through Palaia, where a world-record white truffle was recently found, pack your bikes, then relax with dinner complemented by one of Luigi’s special local wines on the peaceful terrace overlooking the valley.

Day 7 - Morning departure.

Elevation Profile

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