#bike tours tuscany

[tuscanyadventuretours]

Tuscany's Two-Wheel Treasures: Experience the Magic with Our Enchanting Cycle Tours and Trips!

Discover the enchanting beauty of Tuscany with our unforgettable cycle tours and trips. Immerse yourself in the magic of this picturesque region as you pedal through vineyards, ancient villages, and lush landscapes. Our Tuscany cycle tours and trips promise an immersive journey led by local experts, unveiling hidden gems not found on maps. Experience the joy of two-wheel exploration, guided by the stunning backdrop of Tuscany's countryside. From quaint villages to rolling hills, our tours capture the essence of this Italian gem. Join us for a memorable adventure, where Tuscany's two-wheel treasures come to life in every pedal.

[motocrunch]

[biketoursinmediterranean]

Experience the beauty of Italy like never before with our Bike Tours in Tuscany! 🚴‍♀️🇮🇹

It is the place of renaissance with his historical towns and the world famous gravel roads and the Chianti wine.

Book now and let us take you on a journey you'll never forget!

[jynzandtonic]

Ooooo how would any/all of the boys react to turning 40???

*Sigh* 40 is a damn fine age. Please accept these snaccs:

Charlie Barber: Henry's all set up to stay with his cousins for the week so you two can get away to the little villa he's booked in Tuscany for the two of you. You'll have the whole time to drink red wine, make homemade pasta, and fuck in the sunshine on the deck off the master bedroom.

Clyde Logan: He feels so damn lucky to be alive, to be with you. Growin' up with Jimmy, two tours in Iraq, all his adventures and misadventures, and he's finally settled down with you and happy as can be. All he wants is to sit with ya on the porch swing and watch the sunset with a beer in hand—but he won't say no to the butterscotch cake ya baked him.

Adam Sackler: Can't really believe he's fuckin' forty. He promises to put some of his commercial money in an IRA and take enough of a break from acting for a little staycation to fuck on every surface of your apartment together.

Flip Zimmerman: You sure you don't want to have a baby, sugar?

Phillip Altman: Perpetual man child. He offers to get matching cougar tattoos with you.

Rick Smolan: Motorcycle tour of Vietnam together, letting you take photos on his DSLR while you ride on the back of his bike.

Ronnie Peterson: Cabo San Lucas with you and all your friends. He wants to drink daiquiris, sing karaoke, and maybe get a sunburn at a nude beach!

[girlactionfigure]

THURSDAY HERO: Gino Bartali

Born in a small town near Florence in 1914, Gino grew up extremely poor. He escaped his difficult life by riding his bike from dusk until dawn around the hills of Tuscany. Building up exceptional strength and endurance, Gino started competing and winning races. Only a few years after his first race, he went professional. By the early 1930’s, Gino was a household name throughout Italy. Everywhere he went he was mobbed by fans. When he won the Tour de France in 1938, at age 24, Gino was hailed as the “King of Cycling.”

Gino wasn’t able to defend his title at the 1939 Tour because of worsening relations between Italy and France. He was drafted into the army and worked as a military bike messenger. In 1943, Germany invaded Italy and immediately began rounding up and deporting Italian Jews. A friend of Gino’s asked him to help save their Jewish brethren. Though married and with a young son, Gino did not hesitate. He immediately committed to doing whatever he could to save lives, whatever the risk.

Gino sheltered a local Jewish family in an apartment he bought with cycling money. He then embarked on a dangerous mission smuggling fake identity papers around Tuscany and Umbria, enabling Jews to assume false identities and escape deportation. Using his training routes between Florence and Assisi, Gino made 30-40 trips, saving at least 800 Italian Jews. He carried exit visas in his bicycle frame. Wherever he went, Gino was surrounded by fans, preventing German policemen from looking too closely at what he was doing. On the few occasions he was stopped and searched, Gino insisted that his specially-made bike was too delicate to be touched. A devout Catholic, Gino often traveled from Florence to Assisi and back in one day – a 200 km trip. In Assisi, Catholic clergy ran an underground railroad to hide Jews and provided them with Gino’s fake identity documents.

Gino was extremely modest and rarely spoke about his wartime heroism. He once told his son, “If you’re good at a sport, they attach the medals to your shirts and then they shine in a museum. That which is earned by doing good deeds is attached to the soul and shines elsewhere.” It wasn’t until after his death in 2000 that his family began speaking publicly about what Gino had done. In 2013, Gino was honored by Israeli Holocaust Museum Yad Vashem as “Righteous Among the Nations.”

For using his talent and fame to save hundreds of lives, we honor Gino Bartali as this week’s Thursday Hero at Accidental Talmudist.

[growingstories]

The bike trip (new pictures)

Tomasso, a 27 year old Sicilian man living in Milan. Tomasso had a deep love for and fitness enjoyed running often. He balanced his passion for health with his profession as a real estate broker. Alongside these interests, Tomasso had a deep passion for food and loved to cook. He often found himself exploring the culinary delights of his hometown, Milan, by frequenting nice restaurants.

While Tomasso enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities on his holidays, he particularly loved indulging in hiking, skiing, and bike tours. However, despite being an Italian, he had never taken opportunity the to explore Tuscany. This was mainly due to the fact that his family hailed from Sicily, and his travels were often divided between Milan and his ancestral home or other destinations abroad.

One day, Tomasso stumbled upon a brochure advertising a four-week culinary trip through the enchanting region of Tuscany. The idea of visiting little villages, trying local delicacies, drinking good wine, and relaxing in beautiful hotels beneath the warm Tuscan sun sounded absolutely perfect to him. Determined to embark on this adventure, Tomasso began training for his trip. He dedicated one to two hours each day to wearing a heavy backpack, as well as participating in various fitness exercises to achieve the perfect summer body just in time for his holiday.

When the day finally arrived, Tomasso packed his car and embarked on a scenic drive to his first destination. Much to his delight, he was greeted at a stunning hotel with a glass of Prosecco and a delectable buffet of cured meats and cheeses. Overwhelmed by the abundance of food and the enticing free-flowing Prosecco, he indulged himself to the point of feeling a little tipsy. Just as he was about to retire to his room and rest for his trip, he received an unexpected call dinner for. Confused, as he thought he had already experienced dinner at the buffet, Tomasso found himself faced with even more extravagant dishes. A vitello tonato served as the starter, followed by a large plate of delicious and rich pasta. Just when he believed the pasta was the course main, a great roasted chicken appeared before him. Unable to resist, he ate until he was uncomfortably full. And to his surprise, a bottomless tiramisu was served for dessert. Despite his overflowing belly, he eagerly devoured a second plate. The night was filled with restless sleep due to the excessive indulgence.

The following day began with a sluggish feeling, which Tomasso attempted to shake off with a carb-loaded breakfast. He then set off on a two-hour bike ride to his first destination, a dairy farm. There, he tasted a variety of amazing cheeses, such as burrata and aged cheese, accompanied by rich artisanal bread and fruit fresh from the farm's garden. After another hour of cycling, he arrived at an olive grove, where he enjoyed a delightful olive oil tasting, followed by homemade pizzas. The final stop was a winery, where he indulged in a tasting of many excellent wines, paired with bread, cheeses, and meats. The overindulgence caused him to feel a little tipsy. Fortunately, the tour operator offered the use of a bus to transport the participants and their bikes back to the hotel, allowing Tomasso to enjoy several more glasses of wine. Once back at the hotel, he was met with yet another amazing antipasti buffet, accompanied by Prosecco, followed by a four-course dinner. Despite his attempts to exercise self-control, Tomasso succumbed to the temptation of all the delicious food before him.

The ensuing days followed a similar routine with different locations. However, due to his excessive drinking at the winery, Tomasso found himself skipping the long bike rides. As the days went by, he couldn't help but notice aated blo feeling that never seemed to subside. His normal clothes began to feel uncomfortably tight, leaving him wondering how he had gained weight despite the long bike rides.

By the halfway point of his trip, Tomasso noticed that his once-pronounced abs were now hidden beneath a layer of fat. Consequently, he started skipping even more bike rides, as they were often paired with alcohol-related activities. This pattern continued, and he found himself becoming gradually bigger and less active as the weeks progressed.

By the end of the third and fourth weeks, Tomasso had practically discontinued any form of bike exercise, delegating the task to the tour guide. One day, while glancing at his reflection in the hotel mirror, he saw a full-blown belly staring back at him. Despite his growing size, he had no regrets. The tour had been an absolute blast, allowing him to immerse himself in the amazing specialties and cultural experiences of his own country.

The rest of the summer, Tomasso enjoyed the bottles of wine and various foods he had taken home as souvenirs. Unfortunately, he remained quite inactive during this period. As September approached and he reached for his regular clothes, he realized that none of them fit anymore. He knew it was time to go on a diet.

The following summer, Tomasso decided to book another culinary tour, this time in Sicily. Four weeks of indulgence awaited him, followed by two weeks of visiting family. However, his body had not fully recovered from the previous year's excesses, and he had only managed to shed a few kilos. This time, the bike rides were even more infrequent, while the food intake increased exponentially. The visits to family members provided even less opportunity for physical activity, as Tomasso found himself overstuffed with his mother's and aunt's delicious meals. By the end the of holiday, he had gained even more weight than the previous year, leaving him to question when he would ever manage to lose the excess weight.

[cuveeblog]

Find an Adventure Tailored to Your Tastes in Tuscany

Tuscany is known for its wine, cuisine, and art. Everywhere you look, you’ll find old-world charm. The Tuscan countryside is dotted with quiet hilltop villas and villages. The region is also home to Florence, Pisa, Siena, and other cities steeped in history.

It’s a region known for its variety of experiences. Whether you’re searching for a laid-back getaway spent exploring vineyards and tasting wines or something more thrilling—like cycling through the Tuscan hills—you can discover an experience tailored to your tastes in this world-renowned destination.

Tuscany is also home to incredible luxury villa vacation rentals that weave together a tapestry of luxurious modernity with classical wonder. Here’s how you can enjoy an adventure made just for you.

Traipse Through Historic Vineyards and Enjoy Private Wine Tastings 

Throughout Tuscany, you can find a number of historic vineyards and wineries. Some of these vineyards have been around for centuries. As part of your Tuscan adventure, you can meander through these vineyards, like the Capanna vineyard, as part of a guided tour.

Learn about the rich history of Tuscan wines and the winemaking process. After a personalized tour of the Capanna vineyard, you can taste a sampling of their many wines. Plus, you can taste the wines in their renowned and exclusive wine library.

Experience the Hills of Tuscany on Horseback 

Exploring a vineyard can be a quiet and personal experience. However, if you’re looking for something that connects you with the region in an even more immersive way, you can go horseback riding.

Being in Tuscany, this isn’t your typical horseback riding. This is horseback riding through Chianti, a magical region within Tuscany. Trot and gallop through olive groves and vineyards. At the end of it all, you can enjoy another wine tasting paired with local cuisine.

Meander Through the Tuscany Countryside “La Bicicletta” Style

Tuscany has long served as a world-class destination for cyclists. You, too, can experience Tuscany by way of “la bicicletta”—from a bicycle. Whether you want to ride an old-fashioned bicycle or you prefer the helpful power of an e-bike, you get to choose your speed.

Venture from your luxury vacation house rentals and pedal through the Italian countryside, experiencing the region’s tranquility as you cruise down hills and past vineyards. And yes, your cycling adventure can once again be rounded out with a freshly prepared lunch, complete with regional wines.

Take Flight with a Thrilling Helicopter Tour 

If you’re looking for a thrilling, fast-paced adventure, why not take to the skies? It’s an adventure evocative of Leonardo da Vinci’s flying contraptions—only this is very real. There’s nothing quite like a helicopter tour of Tuscan vineyards and wineries!

If you haven’t already guessed, this experience also includes wine and Tuscan cuisine. After seeing Tuscany from above, you’ll definitely work up an appetite. It’s the kind of adventure that blends a fast-paced modern excursion with the region’s signature old-world charm.

About Cuvée

Are you ready to break away from the ordinary? With enchanting properties in Hawaii, Tuscany, and many other destinations around the globe, Cuvée knows how to curate magical experiences. You can enjoy charm and wonder at every Cuvée destination, thanks to their unmatched selection of luxury villa vacation rentals. Their team of Experience Curators works with you to create a bespoke itinerary to help you feel truly immersed in your destination. At Cuvée’s Vail luxury rentals, your Experience Curators can set up a weekend of world-class skiing, a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the Rocky Mountains, a fireside raclette dinner, and so much more. With Cuvée, you can experience the world in new and unexpected ways. How can they make your travel dreams come true?

Discover your perfect Tuscan adventure with Cuvée at https://www.cuvee.com/

Original Source: https://bit.ly/4fk9VLt

[tuscanyadventuretours]

Tuscany E-Bike Escapes: Discovering Nature and Culture on Electric Mountain Bike Tours

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Tuscany on our Mountain E-Bike Tours! Glide through picturesque landscapes, ancient vineyards, and charming hilltop villages effortlessly with our electric bikes. Led by experienced guides, our Bike Tours in Tuscany offer an unforgettable adventure for all skill levels. Pedal through cypress-lined roads, savoring the sweet scent of olive groves, and marvel at the iconic rolling hills. Immerse yourself in the heart of Tuscany's rich culture and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Whether you're a biking enthusiast or a casual rider, our tours promise a perfect blend of nature, history, and the joy of exploration. Unleash the adventurer in y

[motocrunch]

[idyllicitaly01]

Experience Luxury in Lucca: Renting a Villa in the Heart of Tuscany

The Appeal of a Luxury Villa in Lucca

When it comes to finding accommodation in Lucca, nothing compares to the experience of staying in a private villa. These luxury homes provide an exclusive retreat where you can unwind in style while immersing yourself in the beauty of the Tuscan landscape. Renting a villa offers privacy and space that hotels or smaller vacation homes simply can’t match. With expansive gardens, stunning views, and amenities such as private pools, personal chefs, and housekeepers, luxury villas cater to every desire, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Many villas are restored historic properties, luxury villa Lucca Italy Rent blending authentic Tuscan charm with modern-day comforts. Picture rustic stone walls, traditional terracotta floors, and antique furnishings complemented by state-of-the-art kitchens, lavish bathrooms, and plush bedrooms. Whether you want to enjoy a peaceful morning sipping coffee in a rose-filled garden or unwind by the pool with a glass of wine, every corner of these properties invites relaxation and indulgence.

Exploring Lucca and Surroundings

A villa rental in Lucca provides the ideal base for exploring the region. Lucca itself is known for its well-preserved Renaissance-era city walls, which are a favorite for leisurely strolls or bike rides. The city’s piazzas are bustling with cafes, restaurants, and shops, and it’s easy to spend hours wandering the narrow, cobbled streets. Don’t miss iconic landmarks such as the Guinigi Tower, with its rooftop garden, or the Lucca Cathedral, which houses incredible works of art.

Beyond Lucca, the entire region is yours to discover. The stunning landscapes of Tuscany stretch out in all directions, offering opportunities for day trips to nearby attractions like Pisa, Florence, and the wine region of Chianti. Visit local vineyards for wine tasting, take cooking classes to learn authentic Italian recipes, or simply enjoy the slower pace of life as you take in the breathtaking views from your villa terrace.

Customizing Your Luxury Villa Experience

One of the best aspects of renting a luxury villa in Lucca is the ability to personalize your experience. Most villa rentals offer concierge services, allowing you to arrange private chefs, in-villa spa treatments, and guided tours. Want to explore Lucca on a Vespa or enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Tuscan hills? These experiences can easily be arranged to ensure your vacation is truly one-of-a-kind.

For food lovers, luxury villas in lucca Tuscany is a paradise. Indulge in local cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Many villas come equipped with gourmet kitchens, or you can hire a private chef to prepare a sumptuous Tuscan feast right in the comfort of your home. From homemade pasta and rich truffle dishes to the region’s renowned wines, dining at your villa can be a highlight of the trip.

Booking Your Luxury Villa in Lucca

Renting a luxury villa in Lucca offers a unique opportunity to live like a local while enjoying the high-end amenities of a five-star resort. With various options available, ranging from countryside estates to city villas, there’s something for every traveler’s preference. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a base for your Tuscan adventures, a luxury villa rental ensures a comfortable and elegant stay.

[yogaretreatcenter]

Embark on a Transformative Journey: Yoga Adventures in Europe

Imagine practicing yoga against the backdrop of majestic mountains, serene beaches, and historical landmarks. Europe, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a myriad of opportunities for a unique yoga adventure. Whether you seek tranquility, cultural immersion, or a blend of both, Europe's yoga retreats promise an unforgettable experience that nurtures the mind, body, and soul.

The Diversity of European Destinations

From the sun-kissed coasts of the Mediterranean to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the mystical forests of Scandinavia, Europe's varied geography sets the stage for a multitude of yoga experiences. Here are some top destinations to consider for your next yoga adventure:

Ibiza, Spain: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Ibiza is also a haven for wellness seekers. The island boasts numerous yoga retreats that combine daily practice with beachside meditations and organic farm-to-table dining. Picture yourself doing sun salutations with the Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop, followed by a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.

Amalfi Coast, Italy: The picturesque Amalfi Coast offers a serene escape with its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and azure waters. Yoga retreats here often feature sessions on terraces overlooking the sea, complemented by activities such as hiking along coastal paths, exploring historic towns, and indulging in delicious Italian cuisine.

The French Alps: For those who prefer a mountain setting, the French Alps provide a stunning locale for yoga retreats. Imagine beginning your day with a dynamic yoga session surrounded by snow-capped peaks, followed by invigorating hikes or relaxing in natural hot springs. The pure mountain air and breathtaking scenery create an ideal environment for deepening your practice.

Santorini, Greece: Known for its iconic blue-domed churches and stunning sunsets, Santorini offers a unique yoga experience. Retreats on this volcanic island often include sessions on terraces with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, combined with boat trips to nearby islands, exploring ancient ruins, and savoring Greek delicacies.

Enriching Your Yoga Experience

While yoga is the heart of these retreats, many programs in Europe offer additional activities to enhance your overall experience. These might include:

Meditation and Mindfulness: Deepen your practice with guided meditation sessions and mindfulness workshops.

Cultural Excursions: Explore Europe’s rich history and culture with guided tours of ancient ruins, historic cities, and local markets.

Adventure Activities: Engage in activities like hiking, biking, or kayaking to complement your yoga practice and connect with nature.

Wellness Treatments: Indulge in spa treatments, massages, and holistic therapies to rejuvenate your body and mind.

The Benefits of a European Yoga Retreat

A yoga adventure in Europe offers more than just physical benefits. It provides a holistic experience that promotes mental clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper connection with oneself. The combination of yoga, cultural immersion, and natural beauty creates a transformative journey that fosters personal growth and well-being. The communal aspect of retreats also encourages the formation of meaningful connections with like-minded individuals, enriching your experience even further.

Conclusion

Embarking on a yoga adventure Europe is an opportunity to explore new horizons, both within and around you. Whether you’re practicing on a sun-drenched beach, a mountainside, or a historic terrace, Europe’s diverse landscapes provide the perfect setting for a transformative retreat. So, pack your yoga mat, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let the enchanting beauty of Europe guide you on a journey towards inner peace and rejuvenation.

[mtb-adventure]

Are you ready to experience the thrill of mountain biking amidst stunning landscapes across Europe and South Africa? Look no further than MTB Adventure, your premier destination for professionally organized full-service mountain biking tours. Our team is dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable adventure, complete with challenging routes and breathtaking scenery that we've personally built and tested.

At MTB Adventure, we understand that every rider is unique, which is why we offer a variety of tours to cater to different skill levels and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking for an adrenaline-pumping challenge or a beginner eager to explore the world of mountain biking, we have the perfect tour for you.

One of the highlights of our tours is the meticulously curated routes that showcase the best of what each destination has to offer. From rugged mountain trails to picturesque countryside paths, our routes are designed to immerse you in the natural beauty of the surroundings while providing an exhilarating biking experience.

But our commitment to providing exceptional service goes beyond just the routes. When you book a tour with MTB Adventure, you can rest assured that every detail will be taken care of. From comfortable accommodations to delicious meals and reliable support vehicles, we strive to make your adventure as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

What sets MTB Adventure apart is our passion for mountain biking and our dedication to creating memorable experiences for our guests. Our team of experienced guides are not only experts in navigating the trails but are also enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge and love for the sport with you.

So whether you're dreaming of tackling the rugged terrain of the Alps, exploring the scenic trails of Tuscany, or venturing into the untamed wilderness of South Africa, let MTB Adventure be your guide. Get ready to push your limits, conquer new challenges, and create lasting memories on the ultimate mountain biking adventure of a lifetime.

Don't just ride, experience the thrill of mountain biking with MTB Adventure. Book your tour today and embark on the journey of a lifetime!

[saurabhanandtripzygo]

Discover Eco-Friendly Europe Sustainable Tourism Activities for Your Next Adventure

🌿✨ Are you ready to explore Europe in a way that respects and preserves our beautiful planet? Sustainable tourism is more than just a trend—it's a commitment to responsible travel that supports local communities, protects natural habitats, and minimizes our environmental footprint. Here are some fantastic eco-friendly activities to include in your European tour packages. 🌍💚

Cycling Through the Dutch Countryside 🚴‍♀️🌷

Experience the Netherlands like a local by cycling through its picturesque landscapes. The country is famous for its extensive network of bike paths that wind through charming villages, tulip fields, and along serene canals. Not only is biking a sustainable way to travel, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and scenery.

Hiking in the Swiss Alps 🏞️🗻

Switzerland's breathtaking Alps offer some of the best hiking trails in Europe. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there's a trail for everyone. Choose from routes that take you through lush valleys, past glistening lakes, and up to stunning mountain peaks. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to keep these trails pristine.

Wildlife Watching in the Scottish Highlands 🦅🏴

The Scottish Highlands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. From spotting majestic red deer and golden eagles to observing seals and otters along the rugged coastline, the Highlands offer a rich biodiversity. Opt for guided tours that support conservation efforts and local communities.

Eco-Lodging in Slovenia 🌲🏡

Slovenia is a gem for eco-conscious travelers. Stay in eco-lodges that are built with sustainable materials and powered by renewable energy. Many of these accommodations are located near natural attractions like Lake Bled and Triglav National Park, offering easy access to outdoor adventures.

Sailing the Croatian Coast ⛵🌊

Explore the stunning Croatian coastline by sailboat. Sailing is an eco-friendly way to travel, reducing your carbon footprint compared to traditional cruises. Discover hidden coves, swim in crystal-clear waters, and visit charming coastal towns while promoting sustainable marine tourism.

Organic Farm Stays in Tuscany 🍇🏡

Experience the heart of Italy by staying on an organic farm in Tuscany. Participate in activities like grape harvesting, olive picking, and farm-to-table cooking classes. This not only supports sustainable agriculture but also gives you a taste of authentic Italian culture and cuisine.

Forest Bathing in Finland 🌲🧘‍♀️

Finland's vast forests provide the perfect setting for forest bathing, a practice that involves immersing yourself in nature to improve well-being. Take guided walks through these serene woodlands, learn about local flora and fauna, and experience the calming effects of nature.

Kayaking in the Swedish Archipelago 🛶🇸🇪

The Swedish Archipelago, with its thousands of islands, is a paradise for kayaking enthusiasts. Paddle through tranquil waters, explore remote islands, and camp under the stars. Opt for eco-friendly kayak rentals and guided tours that prioritize environmental sustainability.

Volunteering for Conservation in Portugal 🌍💪

Combine travel with purpose by volunteering for conservation projects in Portugal. From restoring coastal habitats to protecting endangered species, there are many opportunities to make a positive impact while enjoying the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of Portugal.

Sustainable Wine Tours in France 🍷🌿

France is renowned for its wine, and many vineyards are now embracing sustainable practices. Join a sustainable wine tour in regions like Bordeaux or Burgundy, where you can learn about organic and biodynamic winemaking, enjoy tastings, and support environmentally friendly vineyards Europe tour packages.

Embark on an eco-friendly journey through Europe and make your travels meaningful. By choosing sustainable tourism activities, you not only experience the beauty and culture of each destination but also contribute to the preservation of our planet for future generations. 🌱🌏

[giovannibenvenuto]

Unlocking the Beauty of La Spezia: A Guide to Shore Excursions

Nestled along the stunning Ligurian coastline of Italy, La Spezia is a picturesque port city that serves as the gateway to some of the country's most enchanting destinations. If you find yourself with a day to spare during a cruise stop in La Spezia, you're in for a treat. This guide will take you on a journey through the best La Spezia shore excursions, including day trips from La Spezia and private shore excursions tailored to your preferences.

Exploring Cinque Terre: A Coastal Gem

No La Spezia shore excursion is complete without a visit to Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site that comprises five vibrant, cliffside villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These colorful, terraced settlements are known for their breathtaking coastal beauty, hiking trails, and fresh seafood. Whether you're an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, the hiking trails that connect these villages offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscape.

Charming Pisa and the Leaning Tower

A short drive from La Spezia brings you to the iconic city of Pisa. Here, you can marvel at the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, a must-see attraction that has fascinated travelers for centuries. In addition to the Leaning Tower, the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) houses the stunning Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery. Be sure to take the obligatory "holding up the tower" photo while you're there!

Lucca: A Hidden Gem in Tuscany

Just a stone's throw from Pisa lies the charming town of Lucca, a hidden gem in Tuscany. Encircled by well-preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca boasts picturesque cobblestone streets, elegant churches, and bustling piazzas. A private shore excursion to Lucca allows you to explore its historical center, rent a bike to cycle along the city walls, and savor a delightful Italian meal at a local trattoria.

Siena: A Taste of Tuscany's Rich History

For history buffs and culture enthusiasts, a day trip to Siena is a must. This medieval city is famous for its well-preserved historic center and the stunning Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena). Be sure to visit the magnificent Piazza del Campo, where the thrilling Palio horse race takes place twice a year. Stroll through Siena's winding streets, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the city's rich heritage.

Creating Your Perfect Private Shore Excursion

While these are some of the highlights of La Spezia shore excursions, a private shore excursion allows you to tailor your day to your interests. Whether you want to explore off-the-beaten-path villages, sample regional wines, or delve into local history, a private tour can be customized to fulfill your desires. Knowledgeable guides will ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful region.

In conclusion, La Spezia shore excursions offer a wealth of experiences, from the coastal wonders of Cinque Terre to the historical treasures of Pisa, Lucca, and Siena. Whether you opt for a guided tour or create your own adventure, La Spezia's beauty and culture are sure to leave an indelible mark on your Italian journey. Unlock the beauty of La Spezia and its surroundings on your next shore excursion—it's an experience you won't soon forget. 

[gaudeixcc]

Peloton News - G23 - Tuscany

Labelled as the 'Tour of inclusivity' because of my pre-tour whining  about not being able to keep up anymore, this trip was always going to be a bit of a test.

I'd stuck to a fairly structured training plan for the previous 18 or so weeks so felt like I was ready and in reasonable shape.

The inclusivity bit needs taking with a pinch of salt though.

'We're doing a gravel trip next year. If you want to come, you'll need a gravel bike'.

I didn't have a gravel bike as I normally identify as a road-rider. Mmm. The cost of inclusivity. Do I also need a rainbow helmet?

Damo sorted a flexible solution for the my first real toe-dip and the shiny new Cannondale landed late last year…. and remained unridden until about March this year I think (which is shocking behaviour on my part).

Moley, the man in Pink, upped the route planning comms and had landed on 4 routes which everyone poured over. It's no easy task is route planning… if it goes well, everyone enjoys it. If it goes wrong (in even the slightest way) you get crucified. And so it turned out.

In a change from the usual form, I'm not going to re-live the day-by-day story of the tour, but thought what might be helpful to others would be if I reflected what I learnt from the experience. As always, I've come back older and slightly wiser.

So, without further ado…. The things 'what I learnt on my hols'…..

James gets quite snappy when he's tired

Macca gets quite snappy if he's snapped at

A blood sugar spike happens when glucose builds up in the bloodstream and your blood sugar levels increase. Early digestion of bread as part of a meal can cause this and so is to be avoided like the plague

Italian sheepdogs are rarely kept on a lead

English cyclists smell like sheep

Sheep who move quickly get chased and barked at

I can practice being a slow sheep. JT less so….

Damo delivers feedback in a sensitive and private manner if something irks him

Macca takes 40 mins in the bathroom in the morning as he washes his whole body with a tiny finger flannel. This irks Damo

Just because a taxi ride from the airport is good, doesn't mean a taxi ride to the airport will be the same. It won't

The day 1 Italian service station was the best I have ever been to. Period... (and would be classified a '2' all day long)

It's a long way to drive to Tuscany. A veeery long way

50% of gravel riders have brown wings

To ride gravel means to faff around with Garmins & Wahoos till the cows arrive arrive back at their respective abodes

'Catch me if you can muthafuckers' should only be shouted if you are absolutely sure you are going the right way

If you wait 2 hours for a taxi in a café in an Italian square, don't expect that the first taxi to arrive will actually be the one you ordered. Always check with the driver.

If you have a boyfriend with a 'roid rage' problem, probably best you don’t let him negotiate with a taxi passenger who is in the right

If someone tries to steal your taxi, just sit in the back seat, what's the worst that could happen? (apart from a shanking from the 'roid rage' boyfriend)

When you're getting annoyed and frustrated at people who may be implying a certain lack of 'route planning' skill may be present, don't ride up a completely un-traversable path and then just keep going because pride will not allow you to turn back

People can die on un-traversable paths

Italian food is sensational

Italian coffee is sensational

Italian ice-cream is sensational (I ate it all)

Hotel staff who don't have to be polite, won't be

Dropping the tyre pressure by 10psi on day 1 is a game-changer

Damo deserved Pink

There is no such thing as 'budget yellow', there's just yellow, ok!!

To add further colour to the learning points, some photos….

We all agree that this is the best motorway service station in the world

'Hey...Tony'........ 'What?'.....

Big sky, open landscape

JT is a lot bigger than you think in real life

Damo is absolutely disgusted that Macca has started caning the bread before the starters arrive. Huuuge blood sugar spike on it's way

Everyone is looking at the route.... this must be a gravel ride then...

He's off again.....! Practice what you preach sunshine....

One of the best tour lunches.... and there were many

One of the best tour desserts.... and there were many

The dessert winner

Damo (in-shot) prepares to publicly fluff Moley (out of shot)

'I'd like 1 kilo of steak please' sayeth RTA in that Italian accent of his.

'You'll have 2.5 kilos and that's the end of that' sayeth our waiter

In this bar the waiters fight for their local community

A proper cyclist with the best bike. (That statement will not sit comfortably with some, I know... but I like the colour)

3 wise monkeys......

Not exactly a unanimous yellow and a probably underserved pink, but fuck that, they're on my knee...! Anyway, the crushing responsibility of G24 is starting to sink in. Gerona 24... let the road/gravel lobbying begin

Well done Moley, great planning, execution and delivery.

Tuscany was sensational and you can't say fairer than that.

Hoppo