A Taste of Tuscany Cycling
Description
Summary
Description
Immerse yourself in the heart of Italy with our 8-day tour, offering an enchanting blend of rustic charm, captivating history, and mouthwatering cuisine. This multi-day tour takes you through picturesque towns, serene lakes, and lush vineyards, with ample opportunities for bird-watching, cheese tasting, and exploring medieval streets. Stay at the Agriturismo La Pietriccia (or similar), a charming farmhouse nestled in the countryside, and enjoy home-cooked meals that tantalize your taste buds with local flavors. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, this tour promises a unique and unforgettable Italian experience.
Included
Management by local hotelier
GPS route directions and maps
RideWithGPS navigation app
High quality bikes
Wine and olive oil tasting
One spa entrance
Cookery class
Tuscan food is based on the Italian idea of 'cucina povera' (poor cooking); simple inexpensive meals that can be made for large groups. Whilst this was once dictated by the economy and expense of the produce, the tradition has remained. The cuisine of this region doesn't use complicated seasonings or elaborate recipes, and instead focuses on fresh, high quality ingredients that allow the natural flavours in each dish to shine through. Typical dishes include fagioli con salsiccia (cannellini beans with sausage), tagliatelle al tartufo (pasta in a truffle sauce) bistecca Fiorentina (a T-bone steak often large enough to share!), pici (a fat, handmade spaghetti, often served with tomato and garlic sauce or game meat). Don't miss the local cacio and pecorino cheeses, and sample the famous wines: Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino.
Your base for the week is the modest but comfortable Agriturismo La Pietricca, which stands on a hill with great views of Chianciano Vecchia. Stefano who runs the agriturismo will welcome you with his enthusiasm for everything to do with nature in the surrounding area and will also teach you all about the artisan products in the local area. The hotel produces 65% of what it serves on your table, and is surrounded by its own farm and orchards. There is a lovely terrace and swimming pool and lovely shady grassy area that looks out across the valley, where in the heat of summer you can take your dinner outside.
hotel: 7 night(s);
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival at Agriturismo La Pietriccia
Day 1: Arrival at Agriturismo La Pietriccia
Kickstart your Italian adventure with your arrival at the Agriturismo La Pietriccia. Take a leisurely stroll to the old town, soaking in the rustic charm of the place. In the evening, meet Stefano, the owner, for a briefing before indulging in your first home-cooked dinner.
Day 2 – Day 2: Montallese and Lake Chiusi
Day 2: Montallese and Lake Chiusi
Begin your day with a scenic journey to the small town of Montallese, followed by a visit to Lake Chiusi. After a refreshing lunch break, embark on the long-distance path of Sentiero della Bonifica to the Lake of Montepulciano, a haven for bird-watchers. Return to the agriturismo in time for a sumptuous dinner.
Day 3 – Day 3: Radicofani and Contignano
Day 3: Radicofani and Contignano
Today, you'll be transferred to Radicofani, the highest point in the Val d'Orca, for breathtaking views. Cycle to Contignano, renowned for its pecorino cheese, and enjoy a delightful lunch. Continue your journey downhill through the forest, passing by the stunning private gardens of La Foce. Return to the agriturismo for a tasting of wine and local produce before dinner.
Day 4 – Day 4: Sarteano and Cetona
Day 4: Sarteano and Cetona
Descend along country tracks, passing a truffle-growing area before crossing the Astrone stream. Cycle through beautiful valleys to the medieval town of Sarteano, then continue to Cetona. Climb to Mondo X, home to La Frateria, one of Italy's finest restaurants located in a beautiful convent started by St Francis in 1212. Return to your hotel in time for dinner.
Day 5 – Day 5: Relaxation and Exploration in Chianciano Vecchia
Day 5: Relaxation and Exploration in Chianciano Vecchia
Enjoy a day of relaxation, with an optional olive oil tasting at the agriturismo. Take a leisurely walk to Chianciano Vecchia and visit the Etruscan Museum of Chianciano Terme. On your way back to the hotel, use your thermal spa voucher to unwind in the healing waters.
Day 6 – Day 6: Vineyards and Montepulciano
Day 6: Vineyards and Montepulciano
Cycle through acres of vineyards on your way to Montepulciano, pausing to admire views of the famous Mount Amiata. Explore the winding medieval streets of Montepulciano before cycling back to Chianciano.
Day 7 – Day 7: Pienza and Roman Bagno Vignoni
Day 7: Pienza and Roman Bagno Vignoni
After a short transfer to Pienza, take time to explore this cheese capital of Italy and its beautiful medieval historic centre. Enjoy a sandwich filled with porchetta or a slab of rich and creamy Pecorino. The ride takes you downhill to cross one of the stunning plains of the Val d'Orcia, and a short detour takes you to Roman Bagno Vignoni with its roman baths and sulphur springs. Follow a long straight Roman road then cross the valley and climb up and down into Chianciano.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure
Day 8: Departure
Your Italian adventure comes to an end as you leave Chianciano Terme. Carry home unforgettable memories of a truly immersive Italian experience.
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