Tuscany Explorer

Transcription

Tuscany Explorer

TUSCANY EXPLORER
EXPLORER | 6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS
TREKTRAVEL.COM | 866-464-8735
Surrender your senses to the “allegria” of Tuscany
from the saddle of your Trek bike
From
$3199pp
Rider Type
Awash in the rich sights and smells of the endless vineyards, the quiet, rolling roads of the
Tuscan countryside offer gorgeous terrain that's a joy to pedal for cycling experts and novices
alike. Sample a Chianti Classico in Radda, or stop in the walled town of Monteriggioni to
enjoy a delicious white truffle. Discover the remains of Etruscan life and the spectacular
Roman ruins in the hilltop town of Volterra. The seductive, relaxed pace of "la dolce vita" is
nowhere more evident than it is here—you're sure to fall under its spell on this cycling vacation
of a lifetime.
Active
Hotel Style
Explorer
Duration
6 days | 5 nights
Start | End
Florence, Italy
Dates
2017/Apr/May/Jun/Jul/Aug/Sep/Oct
TRIP WOWS
Ride along quiet roads lined with cypress trees in the beautiful
Tuscan landscape.
Savor authentic Tuscan cuisine and discover local pecorino
cheese and fresh bruschetta.
Explore traditional Tuscany flavors extra virgin olive oil and
Chianti Classico at our exclusive wine tasting
Discover Volterra’s ancient, living Etruscan and Roman
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Contact us to book your trip 866-464-8735
heritage on a walking trip guided by a local expert
Stay at 15th century palace in the heart of tiny Castellina in
Chianti.
DAILY ITINERARY
2016
DAY 1
Today's Ride:
Castellina in Chianti to La Piazza
Loop Ride
Approximately 25 miles with 1,700
feet of climbing
Description:
A one-hour shuttle will deliver you to your starting point for today's ride, a countryside trattoria set among the rich
vineyards of Chianti. After a delicious lunch of handmade pasta and salads, your Trek Travel guides will ensure
that you have an excellent fit to your Trek bicycle while offering specific cycling tips for riding in Italy. We’ll then
start with a rolling, scenic loop ride among the vine-covered slopes and olive groves of the Chianti region. This
evening, you and your companions will gather for an Italian aperitif on the hotel terrace as our chef prepares
seasonal delights for tonight’s Tuscan feast.
Hotel:
Alternate Hotel on Select Dates:
Included Meals:
Palazzo Squarcialupi
Il Borgo di Vescine
Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
www.palazzosquarcialupi.com/eng/hotel_chianti.php
www.vescine.it
VIEW MEETING AND DEPARTING INFORMATION»
DAY 2
Today's Ride:
Short Option:
Avid Option:
Castellina to Radda in Chianti
Return
feet of climbing
feet of climbing
with San Donato Loop
feet of climbing
Description:
This morning, you'll climb high up above the vineyards, where you'll be rewarded by rich panoramic views of
rolling Tuscan hills discreetly chaperoned by the ubiquitous cypress. As you gently descend you'll cruise through
tiny medieval hamlets and into the shadow of the grand Castello di Brolio. For lunch we'll stop at Bar Dante in
Radda in Chianti. Our hosts, Fabrizio and Carolyn pride themselves on serving the best bruschetta in Radda,
washed down with a glass of local Chianti. Following lunch continue your ride to the tiny village of Lucarelli and
join the locals for the ritual of mid-afternoon espresso. Alternatively, choose to wander the tiny streets of Radda.
Buy a local bike jersey or some delicious Tuscan olive oil before shuttling back to the hotel to relax and enjoy the
pool. This evening is yours to explore Castellina in Chianti: wander the medieval cobblestone streets before
discovering the “Via della Volte”, an impressive underground tunnel used by the Etruscans in the 12th century
and is now a fascinating walkway filled with artisanal boutiques and restaurants. Enjoy a family-style dinner in
town on the piazza, or perhaps something a little more romantic, while savoring the picturesque views and
unique atmosphere of this charming village.
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DAY 3
Hotel:
Included Meals:
Il Borgo di Vescine
Breakfast | Lunch
www.vescine.it
Today's Ride:
Short Option:
Avid Option:
Castellina to Monteriggioni
feet of climbing
Castellina to Strove
feet of climbing
Castellina to Monteriggioni Loop
feet of climbing
Description:
Don’t forget your camera today as you descend into the valley, enjoying stunning views of Siena’s towers amid
the vine-covered hills. As you ride, vines and olive trees give way to shady chestnut trees as the landscape
subtly shifts and changes. Surrounded by ancient stone walls, wildflowers and the scent and shade of the forest,
you leave the 21st century far behind. Pause a while to take in the sight of your mid-day destination, the walled
town of Monteriggioni, perched on a hilltop and dominated by 14 dramatic towers. For lunch, take your pick of
the many al fresco options lining the piazza, before embarking on an exploration of this enchanting city. Shuttle
back to the hotel from here, or alternatively continue riding through some of the leading wine-growing districts in
Chianti. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a private wine tasting where you’ll taste the famous Chianti
Classico wines of the region. Finally, it's on to enjoy another sumptuous dinner and more Tuscan hospitality
before a well-deserved nights rest.
DAY 4
Hotel:
Included Meals:
Il Borgo di Vescine
Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner
www.vescine.it
Today's Ride:
Short Option:
Avid Option:
Castellina to Casole d'Elsa via
Mensano
feet of climbing
Castellina to Casole d'Elsa
feet of climbing
Castellina to Casole to San
Gimignano
feet of climbing
Description:
The breathtaking Elsa Valley awaits you today. The quiet roads offer rich, colorful vistas of golden hills dappled
with silver grey olive groves and framed by the dark green cypress. After a beautiful morning ride, you’ll enjoy a
stop for lunch in Casole d'Elsa. An ancient Etruscan settlement, this village sits atop a ridge commanding
magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Stroll through the main square and be sure to visit La Rocca,
easily Italy's most beautiful town hall. Feast at a family-run osteria in town featuring handmade Tuscan pasta
dishes and seasonal salads. Later, ride up to the stunning medieval town of San Gimignano or shuttle back for a
refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool. This evening you are free to wander in the myriad of cobbled
streets to shop for some souvenirs or taste a new Chianti before dinner at your choice of San Gimignano’s
many lovely trattoria.
Hotel:
Included Meals:
Hotel La Collegiata
Breakfast | Lunch
www.lacollegiata.it
Today's Ride:
Short Option:
Today's Activity:
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DAY 5
San Gimignano to Volterra Loop
feet of climbing
San Gimignano to Volterra
feet of climbing
Private walking Tour of Volterra
Description:
After a descent from San Gimignano to the valley below, you’ll ride through the vine-covered slopes and up to
the medieval town of Volterra, where Etruscan roots and Roman influences are still evident along its steep
cobblestone streets. You're invited for a historical walking tour guided by a local expert before a lunch of your
choice of in town. This afternoon, choose to explore town some more or ride back through the breath taking
Tuscan countryside. This evening, meet your traveling companions on the hotel terrace for an aperitif as the sun
sets on spectacular vistas of San Gimignano. Dinner will be an intimate and exclusive affair, as we toast a week
of great riding, warm fellowship, and truly phenomenal food!
Hotel:
Included Meals:
Hotel La Collegiata
Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner
www.lacollegiata.it
DAY 6
Today's Ride:
San Gimignano to San
Benedetto Loop
feet of climbing
Description:
It’s sadly time to bid farewell today. Get up bright and early this morning to make the most of the stunning light
and watch a bright new day unfurl over the classic Tuscan countryside. Or linger awhile over a hot cappuccino
and enjoy a more leisurely paced morning in the hotel. However you say goodbye to Tuscany, you’re sure to
take a little of this destination with you.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
VIEW MEETING AND DEPARTING INFORMATION»
2017
DAY Us
Explore the city of Florence
From $999 per person
3 days | 2 nights or 4 days | 3
nights
Based on double occupancy.
About:
Visit the Renaissance city of Florence in the heart of Tuscany. Stroll the interesting streets and piazzas while
visiting monuments like the Il Duomo, Uffizi and Michelangelo’s David. Florence has some of Italy’s best
museums and stunning cathedrals mixed amongst the trattoria’s and squares where locals congregate.
Experience all the best of Florentine culture and architecture with our favorite local guide. Your exclusive Trek
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Travel city walking tour will begin with a morning visit to the San Lorenzo area, where you’ll see and taste local
food as you walk through the covered market. Stroll through the old city, and see the medieval tower houses
where Dante Alighieri was born.
Use your 3 day Firenze card to further explore the city independently, with free admission to museums and local
attractions, including the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery with fast-track entry.
What's Included:
Array
Gratuities for your guides are not included and are at your own expense and at your discretion
How to get there
Choose the Florence add-on package before or after your Tuscany Luxury, Tuscany Explorer, Cinque Terre,
Piedmont, or Strade Bianche trip package.
Suggested Area Attractions:
Array
Read through our FAQs for more information.
Add On Package FAQs
DAY Us
Explore the city of Rome
From $999 per person
3 days | 2 nights or 4 days | 3
nights
Based on double occupancy.
About:
Italy’s capital city is a must see for any traveler. Rome’s stunning architecture and history, beautifully told
through its ruins - provides a glimpse of ancient times amongst the modern bustle and energy of this stunning
metropolis.
We feel it’s invaluable to have a local guide in Rome! That’s why we’ve included a unique city tour with a local
expert. For your first day your guide will introduce you to Rome’s most famous monuments and help you get
oriented in the Eternal City. Then use your 3 day city pass during your stay for fast track entry to St. Peter’s
Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, an open bus tour, free public transport, and free entry to
your choice of popular Rome attractions such as the Coliseum and Roman Forum.
What's Included:
Array
How to get there
Choose the Rome add-on package before or after your Tuscany, Ride Across Italy, Cinque Terre, or Puglia trip
package.
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Suggested Area Attractions:
Array
Read through our FAQs for more information.
Add On Package FAQs
WHAT'S INCLUDED
We Include More
Every moment of a Trek Travel bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More romance. More scenery. More choice. It's
the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that’s how we help you create more
memories. See more
Activities
Gratuities for all scheduled special events, restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip.
Private tours
Entrance fees to all group events/activities
All luggage transfers
All transportation during the trip, including private coaches
Lodging
5 nights of accommodation
In every region we travel, we uncover the area’s best, and most delightful accommodations. On our Tuscany trip, you will stay
in a 15th century former noble residence in the heart of tiny Castellina in Chianti and a gracious hotel nestled in a park with
outstanding views of the countryside.
Dining
Daily breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 social hours, 3 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for each day
On our Tuscany trip, the cuisine is characterized by fresh, seasonal ingredients, prepared in a simple, classic style. Lunch offers
bountiful selections of local specialties. Dinners are enjoyed at local trattorias and feature hand-made pastas among other
favorites, all highlighting the very best of the region and season. On other occasions, you’ll be free to choose your own
restaurants to discover your own personal favorites!
Support
The knowledge, support, and camaraderie of experienced guides
Daily route support
Paper route guides also available upon request
Comprehensive trip literature
Gear
The use of a Trek Domane SL 7 carbon road bike with Shimano Di2 electronic shifting, or Trek 7.6 FX Hybrid bicycle
Trek Electric Assist XM700+ also available in a limited quantity
The use of Garmin Touring Plus GPS cycling computer
The use of Bontrager bike helmets and other gear and equipment to make your ride comfortable
Trek Travel water bottles
Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Contact us for details.
Trek Travel Bontrager RL jersey
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WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Thank your Guides, by tipping
Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. Industry standard is 5-10% of the trip price which will be divided
by your guide team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.
What’s Not Included
Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
Lodging before and after the trip
Personal items purchased during the trip
Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.
Gratuities for your Trek Travel Guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and
leadership.Industry standard is for each individual guest to tip the guide team 5-10% of the trip price.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotel La Collegiata
Alternate Hotel: Il Borgo di Vèscine
Castellina in Chianti, Italy
San Gimignano, Italy
Chianti, Italy
Palazzo Squarcialupi Castellina in
Chianti, Italy Located in the heart of
Castellina in Chianti, a medieval city
and one of central Tuscany's most
charming villages. The hotel, a 14th
century palace, boasts a remarkable
view of the stunning Chianti hillsides
and comfortable rooms that highlight
the hotel's original structure.
Hotel La Collegiata San Gimignano,
Italy Originally a 15th century
monastery, this luxurious 4 star hotel
treasures its ancient Tuscan
traditions, while at the same time
offering all the comforts of a top
modern hotel. Relax by the pool and
enjoy a cocktail on the terrace or stroll
into the medieval town of San
Gimignano.
Alternate Hotel: Il Borgo di Vèscine
Chianti, Italy Il Borgo di Vèscine is a
XIII century Etruscan village which
has been transformed into a charming
and elegant hotel. The rooms have
been lovingly created within the
original houses of the medieval
hamlet. Situated in the heart of the
Chianti region, this hotel boasts its
own wine cellar and restaurant that
offers guests the finest Chianti
Classico Riserva wines accompanied
by typical “Chiantigiana” cuisine. You
will stay at this hotel in place of
Palazzo Squarcialupi on select dates.
TRAVEL SERVICES
How to get there
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk
of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Florence’s AmerigoVespucci Airport (FLR).The
Florence airport is about 3 miles from the town center.You can take a taxi (~20 euros) directly to the hotel, or a bus which departs
hourly.
You can also fly into Rome or Milan and take a train or flight from either city. From Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO), you may take a
direct train to Rome’s central station, Roma Termini. Follow the “Stazione/Railway Station” signs.Trains depart twice hourly.Tickets
can be purchased at a Biglietteria office or from ticket machines.All tickets must be validated before getting on the train: do this by
stamping your ticket at the yellow boxes near the platform.The ride takes 30 minutes. From Roma Termini, transfer to a train for
Florence.The Eurostar trains depart frequently and are the quickest.The trip takes 1.5 hours and costs between 44-62 euros one way
per person.In Florence, taxis are available to take you to your hotel.Taxi service is available from Rome Fiumicino Airport to central
Rome for ~50 euros. For information about travel through Milan’s Malpensa Airport (MXP), consult the website
www.airportmalpensa.com.
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Meeting Time And Location
Hotel Palazzo Vecchio | Florence, Italy
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hotel Palazzo Vecchio (via Cennini 4, 50123, Florence, Italy) at 11:00 AM on the first day
of the trip. You’ll then shuttle 90 minutes to your lunch spot for a taste of Tuscan cuisine. Have your first day’s cycling clothes and
riding gear easily accessible, separate from your luggage. After lunch, your guides will do a bike fitting to ensure your comfort on your
Trek Domane this week, before you take your first spin through the countryside.
If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before
the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Palazzo del Capitano (+39 0577
899 028), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi to the first night’s hotel in San
Quirico d’Orcia, Palazzo del Capitano, for approximately 200 euros. The trip takes over an hour from the center of Florence.
Departing Time and Location
Hotel Palazzo Vecchio | Florence, Italy
You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Hotel La Collegiata, San Gimignano. You’ll depart by private shuttle for Hotel
Palazzo Vecchio, Florence, arriving close to 12:30 PM. The hotel is a 5 minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station where trains
connect to many European cities. Please do not book seats before 2:00 PM. The airport in Florence (FLR) is 3 miles from the city. You
can reach it by train, taxi, or shuttle bus; please do not schedule a flight prior to 4:00 PM. Visit www.TrenItalia.com for train information.
Before: Florence, Italy
Florence is the majestic heart of Renaissance art and intellect. Several days can be spent wandering the streets in the shadow of
Brunelleschi’s Duomo and strolling beside the Arno. Along with the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi gallery, a pillar of the
Renaissance and Medici eras, merits a visit. Michelangeo’s David in the Galleria dell’Arte is not to be missed. Keep in mind while
exploring Florence that opening hours vary and are quite often inconsistent. Different museums are open on different days and lines
can be very long. It’s worthwhile to pay a few extra euros and pre-book your tickets—this will enable you to bypass long lines of visitors
at the entrances. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:
Hotel Palazzo Vecchio
This charming 3-star hotel boasts an ideal location in the heart of the historic center of the city, just steps away from the Santa Maria
Novella train station. Built in the early 20th century and recently renovated to provide modern amenities,the PalazzoVecchio is the
perfect choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient option.
via Cennini 4,50123 Firenze | 39 055 212182 | www.HotelPalazzOvecchio. it | ~$130
Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco
This patrician home of the 16th century is close to the old market in the heart of downtown Florence, just a short walk to the Cathedral
and principal museums.This 3-star hotel recently re-opened its doors to guests after having undergone a complete restoration.The
Renaissance architecture and the refined furnishings reflect the Florentine character.
via Cavour 29 | +39 055 288 330 | www.IlGuelfoBianco.it | ~$190
Hotel Albani
Hotel Albani is a stately and impeccably restored early 20th century townhouse.A serene atmosphere completes the setting—perfect for
those wishing to find an exclusive hideaway within walking distance of the Santa Maria Novella train station.
via Fiume, 12 50123 Firenze | +39 055 26030 | www.HotelAlbani.it | ~$200
FAQS
Trip Changes
Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip.
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At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip
experience.
What are the daily rides like?
Rider Type | 31
Average Daily Mileage | 40
Terrain | Hilly
Average Daily Elevation | 2,100 ft.
On all of our vacations, Trek Travel strives to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are
avoided as much as possible. Tuscany is best suited for our Type 3 Riders. Our Trek Travel guides can also easily accommodate Type
2 Riders, who seek less mileage or fewer uphills, with a boost in the van. Those who wish to ride every mile but are concerned about
their physical ability may want to try our electric bike option–you still get a workout but can climb alongside even the strongest rider.
Type 4 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer. The terrain is consistently rolling, with quiet, narrow, and winding
roads. Many towns sit atop hills and, although the ascents are not exceptionally steep, they are often upwards of 5km long. See
Itinerary for specific daily ride distance and elevation options.
What is the weather going to be like?
Fall in Tuscany is usually clear and sunny, with warm daytime temperatures (75F-90F) and evening temperatures 10-15 degrees
cooler. A jacket or wrap will be useful in the evening. Rain is always a possibility, however, so be prepared with wet-weather gear in
order to best enjoy your vacation.
What are the options for a non-rider travel companion?
On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to
spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip
Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. See
Included In The Trip Price for more information. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
Explore the walled city of Castellina
Shop and explore the medieval villages of Radda, Lecchi, Montaione, Monteriggioni and San Gimignano
Take a side trip to Siena
Discover why Tuscan wines and olive oils are so renowned during our private wine-tasting
Opt to spend a half day at a local spa
Visit the museums of Volterra
Do you have upgrade options available?
For an additional fee you may request to upgrade to the brand new Trek Emonda SLR with Shimano Di2 Electronic shifting or
Bontrager Aeolus carbon wheels for the ultimate riding experience. Contact our trip consultants for more details.
If I book a tour, can I be guaranteed that it will run?
If you’re going we’re going on almost all our trips. Trips with 1 guest booked are guaranteed to run. Select trips like Cross Country,
Race and Special Edition trips require a minimum number of guests to run and are not guaranteed until that number is reached.
Contact your Trip Consultant for more details.
In the event that a departure has low enrollment, we will notify guests at 60-90 days before departure to give the option to select a
different date with more guests booked. Please do not reserve airfare before confirming your Trek Travel trip.
What kind of information is provided?
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start you will receive an email
containing a trip start meeting location reminder and any last minute information that you will need to know before your trip. Once you
arrive at your destination Trek Travel staff will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and provide you with daily route guides and a
detailed map allowing you to ride with complete confidence and independence.
What should I pack?
Please review our packing list page for more details.
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What if I have to change or cancel my trip?
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your bike tour. We want to make it as easy as
possible to do so and below you will find our timeline. If you ever have a question, just give us a call, 866 464 8735. Read our
cancellation policy.
General FAQs
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to all the most common questions
that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip.
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Tuscany Explorer

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