No other region of Italy conjures up such classic Italian images. Known by the locals as the Terra di Siena, we bike through a landscape of lush greens, rusty reds and golden ochres. From Cortona to Lake Trasimeno, from Pienza to Montalcino, our routes head into the valleys and through the hamlets of an untouched Toscana. Our biking is complemented by genuine Tuscan cucina: fruity green olive oil, panzanella and the smooth Brunello di Montalcino wine that has made Tuscany so famous.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - We spend our first two days exploring the area surrounding Cortona, best known as the setting for Under the Tuscan Sun. As we continue through the Val di Chiana, the largest and widest valley of the Appennines, we stop to sample the hearty Vino Nobile of the area at the aristocratic Avignonesi Estate, one of the most celebrated estates dotting the countryside. Includes: (D).
Day 2 - On Day 2, we meet in Cortona at a local farmer's house for a tasting of his freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil before dinner at our favorite trattoria featuring crusty bruschetta with plum tomatoes & basil, spicy salsiccia and biscotti soaked in sweet Vin Santo. Includes: (B), (D).
Day 3 - Bold cypress trees line our route through the Val d'Orcia, where we cycle through a landscape that inspired Renaissance painters from Piero della Francesca to Raphael. Lunch is a special indulgence at the acclaimed Locanda dell'Amorosa. Includes: (B), (L), (D).
Day 4 - Day 4 includes a walking tour of the Renaissance town of Pienza, designed by Pope Pio II. Free night for dinner in Pienza, perhaps at an excellent local trattoria specializing in bistecca alla fiorentina, a wood-grilled Florentine steak. Includes: (B).
Day 5 - Today's ride is a Bike Riders favorite. A winding gravel road leads us past a 15th c. castle before the chime of church bells signals our arrival into Montalcino. Stop by an enoteca for a tasting before our farewell feast at Poggio Antico, a brilliant restaurant with creative renditions of Tuscan favorites, handmade cavatelli, pate served with a delicate Muscat wine sauce and roasted cinghiale. Includes: (B), (D).
Day 6 - This morning we take an early morning ride to Sant’Angelo in Colle and the Romanesque church, Sant’Antimo. If we are lucky, we may even hear the monks practicing their Gregorian chants. Late morning drop-off at the Chiusi train station. We highly recommend a layover day in Florence or Siena. Includes: (B).
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price includes:
Meals - all breakfasts, all dinners but 1; picnic, lunch.
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