Taste of Tuscany ~
May 10-17, 2012 ~ $3195
Tuscany has long
been an expression of the
Italian dream. We so much enjoyed setting up this tour
for self-guided clients we decided to offer a guided version! Join
us for a great mix of what makes Tuscany world famous along with what
makes it a great cycling destination.
May
10 - Overnight flight
to Pisa's Galileo Galilei airport.
May
11 - 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.
May
12 - 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. We'll indulge in another Tuscan
feast at a local ristorante.
May
13 - 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?
May
14
- 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
before our festive group dinner.
May
15 - 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.
Open night to discover your own favorite trattoria.
May 16 - 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 our farewell
group dinner complemented
by one of Luigi’s
special local wines
on the peaceful terrace
overlooking the valley.
|
Luigi's Wine Cellar
|
May 17 - Morning
departure.
Reserve Your Space!
Elevation  Profile
|
