Tuscany 2014 - Trek Travel

Transcription

TUSCANY 2014
Explorer |
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
Believe the hype: Tuscany is more beautiful than you can
imagine. As you ride over winding cypress-lined roads,
golden rolling hills reveal their gentle majesty before you.
Ancient farms, vineyards and valleys bask quietly in natural
sunkissed splendor. Tranquil hilltop villages are sheltered
behind Medieval walls awaiting discovery. With a cuisine
as simple as it is delicious, a proud tradition producing
some of the world’s finest wines and a people blessed with
a profound gentle hospitality, Tuscany has a magic which
instantly enchants you to relax and savor every exquisite,
precious moment. Join us for the trip of a lifetime as we
celebrate all the many wonders of this truly magnificent
land.
• 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 and olive oil
tasting
• Discover Volterra’s ancient, living Etruscan and Roman heritage on a walking trip guided by a local expert
• Meet the locals and learn how to live “la dolce vita.”
Ciao!
Penny Gatward
Tuscany Tr ip Expert
T REK TR AVEL
C YCLING VACAT ION S OF A L I F E T I M E
613 Williamson St., Ste. 207
Madison, WI 53703 USA
866.464.8735 | trektravel.com | [email protected]
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Welcome & Map
Itinerary
Trip Accommodations
Arriving & Departing
Before & After Recommendations
What’s Included
Essential Travel Guide
Page 1
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ITINERARY
Tuscany 2014 | Explorer |
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
DAY 1:
Basic Option: Castellina in Chianti to La Piazza Loop Ride
Approximately 16 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing
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. An hour-long shuttle takes you to your lunch location for
an introduction to Tuscan cuisine! Please have riding gear and clothes for the first day easily accessible
and separate from your luggage. After lunch, your guides will ensure you have the perfect fit to your
Trek Domane before you take your first spin through Tuscany. A rolling, scenic loop ride will take you
to Castellina in Chianti, an ancient medieval city where you’ll spend the next three nights in your palace
hotel. Explore the cobblestone streets, medieval walkways, and defensive architecture of this fascinating
town. This evening, you and your companions will gather for an Italian aperitif and a review of the week to
come before enjoying your first Tuscan dinner together at a specially selected local restaurant.
Personal
Cycling Gear:
On your trip Trek Travel
provides a helmet, flat
or caged pedals & a
Bontrager saddle.
Hotel | Palazzo Squarcialupi | www.PalazzoSquarcialupi.com
DAY 2:
Basic Option: Castellina to Radda in Chianti Return
Short Option: Castellina to Radda in Chianti
Avid Option: Castellina to Radda in Chianti with San Donato Loop
This morning, you’ll climb high up above the vineyards, where you’ll be rewarded by rich panoramic views
of rolling Tuscan hills wrapped in vines and 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, enjoy a selection of fresh Tuscan specialties at one of the locals favorite bars in Radda in Chianti.
Following lunch, continue your ride to the tiny village of Lucarelli and join locals for the ritual of midafternoon espresso - or maintain your momentum and head back uphill and return to the quiet serenity of
the vineyards. Alternatively you can shuttle back to the hotel to relax and enjoy the Palazzo’s extensive spa
facilities. This evening is yours to explore as you wish: 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.
Beyond what is
provided on your trip,
you are welcome to bring
your own gear: a helmet,
seat, pedals, shoes, etc.
Just label and pack it
in a separate, easily
accessible bag.
Remember also to bring
spare cleats for your
clipless pedals, as
replacements during your
trip are difficult to find.
Social i ze w i t h u s :
BOOK
TODAY!
To Book this Trek Travel biking trip Today,
Call our trip consultants at 866.464.8735.
To see more amazing trips, visit trektravel.com
or contact us at [email protected]
NEED
MORE
INFO?
Page 2
ITINERARY
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
DAY 3:
Basic Option: Castellina to Monteriggioni
Short Option: Castellina to Strove
Avid Option: Castellina to Monteriggioni Loop
Dont 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. Later, as you climb back into the sun, pause 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 and olive oil tasting and then on to enjoy true Tuscan
hospitality and ambience in our favorite local trattoria.
Rider Level:
Rider Type:
3
Terrain
hilly
Average:
Daily Distance:
40 miles
DAY 4:
Average:
Daily Climbing
2,100 feet
Basic Option: Castellina to Casole d’Elsa via Mensano
Short Option: Castellina to Casole d’Elsa
Avid Option: Castellina to Casole d’Elsa to Volterra
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 and a wander round 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 dishes made of the finest local seasonal ingredients. Later, ride up to Volterra, where
Etruscan roots and Roman influences are still evident along its steep cobblestone streets. Pedal uphill to
the hotel or shuttle back for a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool. This evening you’re invited
for a historical walking tour guided by a local expert before dinner at your choice of Volterra’s many lovely
trattoria.
Hotel | Park Hotel le Fonti | www.ParkHotelLeFonti.com
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Page 3
ITINERARY
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
DAY 5:
Basic Option: Volterra to Montaione Loop with Volterra Shuttle
Short Option: Volterra to Montaione
Avid Option: Volterra to Montaione Loop
After a descent from Volterra to the valley below you’ll meander through bucolic back roads. First stop of
the day is the ancient village of Montaione. Just outside town, you will stop at Villa di Filicaja for a picnic
lunch in true gourmet Trek Travel style. Enjoy a tasting of our good friend Antonio’s traditionally produced
wine and olive oil, before hopping back on your bike to explore more of the countryside’s forests and
farms. Or, spend time with our aristocratic host to learn more about how he came to run Italy’s largest
horse rescue shelter. After the visit you’ll shuttle back to the hotel to enjoy some time to relax by the pool
or maybe explore Volterra a little further. This evening, meet your traveling companions by the hotel pool
for an aperitif as you survey the glory of the evening light over the panorama of the Tuscan countryside.
Dinner will be an intimate and exclusive affair, as we toast a week of great riding, warm fellowship, and
truly phenomenal food!
Hotel | Park Hotel le Fonti | www.ParkHotelLeFonti.com
DAY 6:
Basic Option: Volterra Loop
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.
Get up bright and early this morning to make the most of the stunning light and watch a bright new day
unfurl over the the classic Tuscan countryside. Or, if you’d rather, linger a while over a hot cappuccino and
enjoy a more leisurely paced morning in the hotel.You’ll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the
Park Hotel le Fonti.
BOOK
TODAY!
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Page 4
ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
LODGING
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.
Palazzo Squarcialupi | Castellina in Chianti, Italy
Located in the Medieval heart of Castellina in Chianti, one of central Tuscany’s most charming villages. The
hotel, a 14th century palace, boasts a remarkable view of the stunning Chianti hillsides and comfortably
renovated rooms highlighting the hotel’s original structure.
via Ferruccio, 26 | +39 0577 741186 | www.PalazzoSquarcialupi.com
Park Hotel le Fonti| Volterra, Italy
Recently renovated, the Park Hotel le Fonti is designed with respect for Tuscan traditions, while still offering
all the comforts and facilities of a top modern hotel. The views of the surrounding hills from the swimming
pool and terrace are unbeatable!
via Di Fontecorrenti 5 | +39 0588 85219 | www.ParkHotelLeFonti.com
DINING
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. At times routes,
hotels, activities, etc.
listed here may change
at the discretion of the
trip designer or guides
to improve the trip
experience.
Trek Travel scopes out unique and delicious dining locations, and we usually leave at least one meal
for you to explore on your own. If you have any special dietary preferences, be sure that you have
informed your Trek Travel Trip Consultant before you leave for your trip. We will do our best to
accommodate your dietary requests.
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!
BOOK
TODAY!
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Page 5
ARRIVING & DEPARTING
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
HOW TO GET THERE
Flights | 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 Amerigo Vespucci 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.
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. an hour-long shuttle takes you to your lunch location
for an introduction to Tuscan cuisine! Please have your first day’s riding gear and clothes easily
accessible and separate from your luggage. After lunch, your guides will ensure you have the perfect
fit to your Trek Domane before you take your first spin through Tuscany.
Enjoy our
Travel Agent
Services!
For a nominal fee, our
dedicated Travel Agent
can reserve
air travel, hotels, rental
cars, train tickets and
additional tours and
sightseeing before or
after your trip. Call
Trek Travel at 866 464
8735 and choose option
#2 to speak with our in
house Travel Agent.
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 Squarcialupi (+39 0577 741186), and leave a message
with your expected arrival time and contact details.You may take a taxi to Palazzo Squarcialupi, the
first night’s hotel in Castellina in Chianti, for approximately 150 euros.
DEPARTING TIME AND LOCATION
Hotel Palazzo Vecchio | Florence, Italy
You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Park Hotel le Fonti.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 the Santa Maria Novella train station with connections to many European cities. Please do not
make train reservations prior to 2:00 PM. If you are flying out of Florence (FLR), the airport is only 3
miles from the city.You can reach it by train, taxi, or shuttle bus; please do not make flight reservations
prior to 4:00 PM.Visit www.TrenItalia.com for train information.
BOOK
TODAY!
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MORE
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Page 6
BEFORE & AFTER
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
FLORENCE
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’Accademia is not to be missed. Keep in mind while
exploring Florence that opening hours vary and are 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 PalazzoVecchio | via Cennini 4,50123 Firenze | 39 055 212182 | www.HotelPalazzOvecchio.
it | ~$130
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 Palazzo Vecchio is the perfect choice for those seeking a
comfortable and convenient option.
Hotel il Guelfo Bianco | via Cavour 29 | +39 055 288 330 | www.IlGuelfoBianco.it | ~$190
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.
Last minute
question?
Your guides will be
available 24 hours
before the start of your
trip.You’ll receive
their mobile numbers
in an e-mail one week
before the trip start
date. In the event you
don’t receive this
email, please contact
our sales team:
[email protected]
or 866.464.8735.
Hotel Albani | via Fiume, 12 50123 Firenze | +39 055 26030 | www.HotelAlbani.it | ~$200
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.
Sociali ze w i t h u s :
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Page 7
BEFORE & AFTER
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
ROME
Rome is a powerhouse of stunning architecture and ancient history, beautifully told through its ruins
and buildings. It seems that every street you walk down provides another unexpected glimpse of
ancient times, yet modern bustle and energy abounds as well. The Coliseum, the Forum,Vatican City,
and the Pantheon are some of the must-see attractions. Be sure to linger on the Spanish Steps one
afternoon and take advantage of great shopping and fantastic cuisine. We recommend the following
accommodations for your post-trip hotel:
Hotel Barocco | via della Purificazione, 4 00187 Roma | +39 06 487 2001 | www.HotelBarocco.
com | ~$285
This 37-room hotel is tucked away on central Piazza Barberini. It boasts a refined, simple style with
all of the comforts and amenities needed for a relaxing Roman getaway.
Hotel Capo d’Africa | via Capo d’Africa, 54 00184 Roma | +39 06 772801 | www.
HotelCapodAfrica.com | ~$350
Located in the heart of Imperial Rome, between the Forum and the Domus Aurea, the Hotel Capo
d’Africa boasts contemporary decor within a beautiful, early 19th century building. 64 rooms.
Mecenate Palace | via C. Alberto, 3 00185 Roma | +39 06 44702024 | www.MecenatePalace.
com | ~$260
“To call
trip
Thank
YourtheGuides,
anything
short of
By Tipping:
amazing is an
understatement.
Gratuities
for your
Everything
was asare
Trek
Travel guides
promised
and in
the
not included
surprises
that
were
your trip price. Industry
thrown in
along
standard
is 5-10%
it right
ofthe
theway
tripput
price
which
the top.”
will over
be divided
by your
— Jim
guide
team.
Please tip your guides
at your discretion,
based on their level of
professionalism, guest
care and service.
In front of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, this hotel is within walking distance of most of the
important monuments and shopping areas found in Rome. Guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the
city from the hotel’s roof garden. 62 rooms.
BOOK
TODAY!
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Page 8
WHAT’S INCLUDED
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE
Dining & Lodging
• Unique accommodations during the Tuscany trip
• Daily breakfast, 2 lunches, social hour on some evenings, 3 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for
each day’s ride
Support
• Dedicated Trip Consultants to answer all of your questions and aid you in choosing a vacation
that suits you
• Email sent to you one week prior to your trip with guide contact details, meet time & location
and any final information
• The knowledge, support and camaraderie of experienced guides
• Daily route support, detailed route guide, highlighted map, van support
• All transportation and luggage transfers during the trip
Gear
• The use of a Trek Domane™ 5.9 carbon road bike, or Trek Domane™ 5.9 Women’s Specific
Design carbon road bike (limited selection), or Trek 7.6 FX™ hybrid bike (visit www.trektravel.
com/ridethebest.php for more details)
• Complimentary Trek Travel merchandise
• Bike computer, a map case, and stocked seat pack for use during your trip
• Two Trek Travel water bottles for you to keep
• Choice of multiple stem lengths, seat posts and saddles for a custom fit
The Best Bikes,
Period:
Bike vacations are
more fun when bikes
ride and fit well. With
the best in the industry
and our knowledgeable
and well trained
guides our bikes always
fit and ride smoothly.
Enjoy $300 off a select
Trek bike after you
travel with us.
Activities
• Gratuities for all scheduled restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip.
• Private wine and olive oil tasting
• Private walking tour of Volterra
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.
BOOK
TODAY!
NEED
MORE
INFO?
Page 9
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
WHAT’S NEXT?
If you are ready to book call at 866-464-8735 or fill out on our online booking form.
If you already booked, there is a lot of great information below regarding getting ready
for your trip and things like upgrade bikes, trip insurance and housekeeping items that you’ll
want to ensure are completed on time.
THE ESSENTIAL LINKS
UPGRADES
RIDER LEVEL
Upgrade to the Trek
Madone 6.5 road bike,
electric assist bikes, and
carbon wheels,
TRIP INSURANCE
Protecting your trip
investment from
unforeseen circumstances
that might affect
your trip.
We have trips for every
type of rider. Find the
best fit with our
“rider type explained”
section.
TT CLUB
Our TT Club
rewards repeat guests
with trip discounts,
complimentary
upgrades and more!
FAQS
Read a lot of great
information about your
bike tour in our easy
to navigate FAQ
section.
REFERRAL REWARDS
Bring a friend on your
Trek Travel cycling
vacation and earn a
$200 referral bonus
each time!
IN HOUSE TRAVEL AGENT
CYCLING GEAR TO PACK
CANCELLATION POLICY
Allow us to arrange your
pre and post trip hotels, air
travel, trains and
other activities for a
nominal fee.
Use this comprehensive
packing list to make sure
you bring just what
you need for on and
off the bike.
Be informed rather
than surprised. Trip
cancellation policies
differ so take a moment
to look yours over.
TRAINING
OFF THE BIKE APPAREL
Our partner,Vision Quest
Training, offers custom
training programs to
prepare any rider for
their trip.
With your bike fashion
covered, here are
suggestions for off the
bike apparel for
your trip.
Cancellation
Policy:
If you must cancel your
trip more than 90 days
prior to departure, there
is a cancellation fee of
$100; between 61 – 90
days prior to departure
there is a cancellation fee
of 25% of the original
trip price; between
31 – 60 days prior to
departure there is a
cancellation fee of 50%
of the original trip price;
there is no refund for
cancelling a trip less
than 30 days prior
to departure.
If you choose to change
your trip more than
90 days prior to
departure, you may
do so with no fee.
From 61 – 90 days,
there will be a $1,000
administrative fee. If you
choose to change your
trip within 60 days of
the original trip start,
the cancellation policy
outlined above will
apply. Please be aware
that it is only possible
to move to another trip
within one year of the
original trip departure
date.
BOOK
TODAY!
NEED
MORE
INFO?
Page 10

Tuscany 2014 - Trek Travel

Transcription

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