Umbria exposes you to the best of Italian life...from simple pleasures such as cappuccino in the piazza, to a tour of the 14th c. frescoes in the Basilica of Saint Francis, to a room with a view in a 15th c. villa. Located between Florence and Rome, among silver green olive trees, majestic Roman pines and sloping vineyards, Umbria is a region undiscovered by many. Home to mystical hilltowns and magnificent fortresses. Umbria harks back to its powerful medieval days. As we bike through fabled towns and by frescoes and palaces of centuries past, Umbria promises an unforgettable taste of the Italian way of life.
Highlights:
- Biking through the Sagrantino vineyards of Montefalco;
- Hand-painted majolica ceramics in Deruta;
- Tasting Sagrantino di Montefalco with Giovanna;
- Wandering the narrow streets of Assisi and Spello;
- Views from the terrace at our inn (olives, vineyards and sunflowers).
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Todi
We begin just outside the beautiful little town of Todi, founded by the Etruscan sand a prosperous center in Roman Ages. Our warm up ride leads us into the village, where we admire the medieval Church of San Fortunato and share an espresso with the signori lingering in the piazza. Overnight at Relais Todini, a historically registered residence and Bike Riders’ exclusive.
Day 2 & 3 - Torgiano & Assisi
We pass golden wheat fields and brilliant patches of sunflowers as we descend into the Tiber River Valley. Our ride through the Rubesco vineyards finishes in Torgiano where we enjoy a private tasting of Brezza and Torre di Gianofrom the famous Lungarotti estate. Ricotta and zucchini flowers, risotto with Rubesco, and stringozzi with walnuts & gorgonzola highlight the menu at tonight's elegant dinner. On to Spello and Assisi, medieval towns at the base of Mt. Subasio. We pedal through the olive groves and into the pink-hued city of Assisi for a walking tour with Giuseppe, including the imposing Basilica of St. Francis and the pagan Temple of Minerva. Later, we may opt to wander through the hidden village of Spello, a picture perfect town with cobblestone streets and Renaissance chapels. Two nights at Le Tre Vaselle, a 5 star hotel with an elegant mix of wooden beams, period furniture and terracotta floors.
Day 4, 5 & 6 - Deruta, Bevagna & Montefalco
An easy ride to the village of Deruta to visit Andrea and his family's majolica ceramic workshop. We cycle through fields and small towns, deeper into thegreen heart of Italy. A fascinating town filled with Romanesque churches, cafes, and a medieval fountain, Bevagna is our base for the next two days. We are in wine country! Our route takes us through miles and miles of vineyards: bright green in the spring, and bursting with grapes in the fall. Meet at Caprai Vineyards for a sampling of ruby red Sagrantino di Montefalco and bruschetta brushed with peppery olive oil. A sumptuous farewell dinner at our inn where Giovanni prepares traditional Umbrian fare...grilled porcini mushrooms, earthy black truffles and hand-rolled pasta with game. Accommodation: two nights at one of our favorite hotels, L’Orto degli Angeli. Francesco and Tiziana welcome us into their family’s 15th c. estate nestled in the heart of town.
Testimonials:
"Grab your bike and head for Italy with Boston-based Bike Riders..." Vogue Magazine
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price includes:
Meals - all breakfasts, all dinners but 1; picnic lunch;
Hotels - 4 & 5 star villas and inns.
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