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Tuscany Bike Tour

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Tour de France Ultimate Experience: Tuscany Grand Depart 2024

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Siena with unparalleled Lidl-Trek team access and VIP race viewings.

Tour Duration

Activity Level

Hotel Level

Trek Domane SL 7 Trek Electric-Assist Domane+ SLR 7 Trek Electric-Assist Verve+

Starting from

$ 6,799.00 per person

Have a question?

Experience the ultimate Lidl-Trek team access and VIP race viewings at the Tour de France Grand Depart in the heart of Tuscany.

Official Tour Operator of the 2024 Tour de France

Exclusive Pro Team Access—get behind the scenes with Team Lidl-Trek!

  • Official VIP Race access passes to the Grand Depart of Stage 1 in Florence

Ride along quiet roads lined with cypress trees in the beautiful Tuscan landscape and stay at boutique hotels in Chianti and Florence

Experience an intimate gathering with the Mascheroni Stianti family at a gourmet lunch paired with an exquisite wine tasting at their hidden estate, Castello di Volpaia

Ride in style on a full carbon Trek Domane 7 SL Disc bike with electronic Di2 shifting or choose to upgrade to the Trek Domane+ SLR 7 and enjoy first-class, fully dedicated VIP support from the Trek Travel team

Three people in front of the Lidl-Trek team bus

Exclusive Pro Team Access—get behind the scenes with Lidl-Trek!

Tour de France: The Grand Depart

As the Official Tour Operator for both the Tour de France and the Lidl-Trek racing team, only Trek Travel can offer this exclusive VIP trip with unparalleled behind-the-scenes access to the team at the heart of the world’s premier cycling race.

What Guests are Saying

three people posing in front of a car with bikes on the roof bike rack

This was absolutely the best run trip that I have ever been on. The guides were super both in the pre-planning and the execution.

Thomas, Trek Travel Guest

People cheering on the side of the TDF race

From the routes put together for each ride, to the unprecedented access to the Tour, and the amazing guides this is a trip that will not only fulfill a bucket list trip it will leave you amazed at how no detail is overlooked and understanding that Trek Travel has a commitment to a cycling experience that cannot be matched.

Josh, Trek Travel Guest

Lidl-Trek pro race team in the peloton

Thank you Trek Travel for an amazing 60th birthday Tour De France experience. Our hosts were super smart and were the life of the party. The entire experience including the lodging and transportation were first class.

Nick, Trek Travel Guest

people on TDF podium

The riding was spectacular. The routes were incredible. Accommodations and dining were spot on. The best part of the trip were the guides. I could not have asked for anything more. Worth every cent!

Bill, Trek Travel Guest

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

June 25-30, 2024 limited availability.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

Villa Curina Resort

Palazzo Montebello

Available bikes:

  • Domane SL Road Bike
  • Emonda SL Road Bike
  • Domane+ E-Road Bike
  • Electric Assist Hybrid Bike

$ 6799.00 per person

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 1,999.00

You have another booking already in progress

Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.

Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

Florence - Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR)

Pick-up location :

Palazzo Montebello, Florence, Italy

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Drop-off location :

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your bike tour in Tuscany, 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 three miles from the town center. You can take a taxi directly to the hotel (for approximately 20 euros) or a bus which departs hourly.

Rome and Milan also offer flight options. 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 one and a half 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 approximately 50 euros.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Palazzo Montebello (Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 14, 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 your first taste of delicious Tuscan cuisine. 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. Please have your first day’s riding gear handy and separate from your other luggage to facilitate the bike fitting and ride.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call your first hotel, Villa Curina Resort in Castelnuovo Berardenga (+39 0577 355630), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi to the first night’s hotel for approximately 150 euros. The trip takes over an hour from the center of Florence.

Additional Departure Information

You will say farewell to your guides at 9:30 AM at the Palazzo Montebello in Florence, with a check-out time of 12:00 PM. Please make your own onward travel arrangements. The hotel is a 10-minute taxi to the Santa Maria Novella train station where trains connect to many European cities. Please do not book seats before 1:30 PM, allowing adequate connection time for any ongoing travel or possible traffic delays. The airport in Florence (FLR) is three miles from the city. You can reach it by train, taxi, or shuttle bus; please do not schedule a flight prior to 12:00 PM. Visit www.TrenItalia.com for train information.

Day 1 Enjoy a warm up ride through ancient olive groves!

Enjoy a warm up ride through ancient olive groves!

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Palazzo Montebello at 11:00 AM on the first day of your Tour de France bike tour in Tuscany. After a 90-minute shuttle, you will arrive at the historic Badia a Coltibuono, or "Abbey of the Good Harvest", for a delicious lunch with stunning views of the Chianti hills. Your Trek Travel guides will then familiarize you with your Trek bicycle, ensuring you have an excellent fit. A warmup ride takes you along picturesque, win... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Palazzo Montebello at 11:00 AM on the first day of your Tour de France bike tour in Tuscany. After a 90-minute shuttle, you will arrive at the historic Badia a Coltibuono, or "Abbey of the Good Harvest", for a delicious lunch with stunning views of the Chianti hills. Your Trek Travel guides will then familiarize you with your Trek bicycle, ensuring you have an excellent fit. A warmup ride takes you along picturesque, winding roads through ancient olive groves, before you make your way to the elegant Villa Curina, originally a 16th-century hamlet nestled peacefully in the hills of Chianti, where you will be hosted for the next three nights. This evening, enjoy a warm welcome as we gather for drinks on the terrace overlooking Tuscan vineyards and discuss details of the exciting week ahead. Read More

Meals included

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Welcome to Tuscany and enjoy a picturesque warm up ride

Highlight of the Day

Welcome to Tuscany and enjoy a picturesque warm up ride

A warmup ride takes you along winding roads through ancient olive groves, before you make your way to your hotel, the elegant Villa Curina i... A warmup ride takes you along winding roads through ancient olive groves, before you make your way to your hotel, the elegant Villa Curina in the hills of Chianti. Read More

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Badia a Coltibuono to Villa Curina - Approximately 19 mi | 31 km and 1,640 ft | 500 m

Day 2 Wine tasting at Castello di Volpaia and an evening exploring Siena

Wine tasting at Castello di Volpaia and an evening exploring Siena

Slowly awaken to another perfect day in Tuscany! Today’s ride traverses the forested hills and olive groves of the celebrated Chianti region. Pedal through the village of Lecchi and enjoy an espresso with the locals before continuing up to Radda, the ancient capital of the League of Chianti. Take time to explore this vibrant village, filled with art galleries, gourmet food and wine shops—the perfect place to pick up some mementos to take home. Your midday destin... Slowly awaken to another perfect day in Tuscany! Today’s ride traverses the forested hills and olive groves of the celebrated Chianti region. Pedal through the village of Lecchi and enjoy an espresso with the locals before continuing up to Radda, the ancient capital of the League of Chianti. Take time to explore this vibrant village, filled with art galleries, gourmet food and wine shops—the perfect place to pick up some mementos to take home. Your midday destination is Castello di Volpaia, where the Mascheroni Stianti family personally welcomes you for a spectacular wine-paired lunch in their villa. Afterward, enjoy an exclusive visit of the castle’s cellars and olive oil press. From here, shuttle back to our hotel for a dip in the pool or hop back on your bike to return by way of rolling hills and scenic vineyards. This evening, we’ll shuttle into the medieval town of Siena where you'll learn the secrets of this historic city from our local guide and see the world-famous Duomo and the Piazza del Campo. Afterward, you’ll wander the cobbled streets as you are free to choose tonight’s spectacular trattoria on your own. Surrender your tastebuds to culinary favorites like wood-fired pizza or a bowl of cinghiale (wild boar) pasta accompanied by a glass of the finest Brunello and be sure to finish our fabulous day with a world-class gelato! Read More

Breakfast | Lunch

Discover the delights of medieval Siena

Discover the delights of medieval Siena

Experience the medieval town of Siena where you'll learn the secrets of this historic city from our local guide and see the world-famous Duo... Experience the medieval town of Siena where you'll learn the secrets of this historic city from our local guide and see the world-famous Duomo and the Piazza del Campo. Then, explore the beautiful cobbled streets on your own before choosing a trattoria for a delicious dinner. Read More

Villa Curina to Volpaia with Shuttle - Approximately 24 mi | 38 km and 3,363 ft | 1,025 m

Ride Option 2

SHORT OPTION:

Villa Curina to Radda with Shuttle - Approximately 19 mi | 36 km and 2,500 ft | 700 m

Ride Option 3

AVID OPTION:

Villa Curina to Volpaia Loop - Approximately 44 mi | 71 km and 5,050 ft | 1,540 m

Day 3 Discover the history of Castello di Brolio

Discover the history of Castello di Brolio

Following a relaxing breakfast, this morning you’ll cruise through the Chianti vineyards where you'll be rewarded by rich panoramic views of rolling, sun-drenched Tuscan hills. Choose to stop and explore the Castello di Brolio, the oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroica Caffè, named after L’Eroica, the local cycling event on the strade bianche with conte... Following a relaxing breakfast, this morning you’ll cruise through the Chianti vineyards where you'll be rewarded by rich panoramic views of rolling, sun-drenched Tuscan hills. Choose to stop and explore the Castello di Brolio, the oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroica Caffè, named after L’Eroica, the local cycling event on the strade bianche with contestants riding vintage bikes in full vintage regalia. Then choose to climb up into the hills to Monteluco, one of the highest points in Chianti, or continue on to the quaint village of Villa a Sesta, our lunch destination. Enjoy true Tuscan hospitality as you savor the cuisine of Osteria alla Villa, a small bistro that serves up fresh and creative dishes. This afternoon choose to bike back or jump on a short shuttle to the hotel for a dip in the pool or relax before we gather for a chef-inspired pizza dinner in the evening. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Explore the Castello di Brolio

Explore the Castello di Brolio

The oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroi... The oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroica Caffè, named after L’Eroica, the local cycling event on the strade bianche with contestants riding vintage bikes in full vintage regalia. Read More

Villa Curina to Castello di Brolio Loop - Approximately 40 mi | 64 km and 3,800 ft | 1,160 m

Villa Curina to Castello di Brolio with Shuttle - Approximately 22 mi | 36 km and 3,800 ft | 700 m

Villa Curina to Monteluco Loop - Approximately 52 mi | 83 km and 5,735 ft | 1,750 m

Day 4 Ride to Florence and experience an exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Ride to Florence and experience an exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Wake up to the anticipation of live race action in Florence as we head to this historic and picturesque city, gearing up for its first-ever Grand Depart in Italy! Bike through the scenic hills of Chianti on quiet country lanes as we make our way to Florence and the luxurious 5-star Palazzo Montebello in the heart of the city. On our way, we'll make a stop in a charming village for lunch and afterward, you have the option to either hop in the van for a direct ride to... Wake up to the anticipation of live race action in Florence as we head to this historic and picturesque city, gearing up for its first-ever Grand Depart in Italy! Bike through the scenic hills of Chianti on quiet country lanes as we make our way to Florence and the luxurious 5-star Palazzo Montebello in the heart of the city. On our way, we'll make a stop in a charming village for lunch and afterward, you have the option to either hop in the van for a direct ride to the hotel or extend your ride by crossing the Arno River and exploring more of Florence. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience with Lidl-Trek. Join team representatives for a Q&A cocktail hour and, if race regulations permit, take a tour of the team bus while watching the mechanics prepare the pros' bikes. Soak in the excitement and gear up for tomorrow’s first stage of the 2024 Tour de France! Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Enjoy an exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Enjoy an exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Join team representatives for a Q&A cocktail hour and, if race regulations permit, take a tour of the team bus while watching the mechanics ... Join team representatives for a Q&A cocktail hour and, if race regulations permit, take a tour of the team bus while watching the mechanics prepare the pros' bikes. Read More

Villa Curina to Impruneta with Shuttle - Approximately 39 mi | 63 km and 3,500 ft | 1,070 m

Villa Curina to Florence - Approximately 48 mi | 77 km and 4,042 ft | 1,230 m

TODAY'S TEAM ACCESS:

Exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Day 5 Official VIP Race access passes to the Grand Depart in Florence

Official VIP Race access passes to the Grand Depart in Florence

This morning, we have a unique VIP experience at the Grand Depart of this year's Tour de France. With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the pros as they warm up to prepare for today's stage. Then, position yourself to watch the race's exciting start and cheer on the teams as they begin their journey from Florence to Emilio Romagne. They'll tackle a challenging route, rid... This morning, we have a unique VIP experience at the Grand Depart of this year's Tour de France. With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the pros as they warm up to prepare for today's stage. Then, position yourself to watch the race's exciting start and cheer on the teams as they begin their journey from Florence to Emilio Romagne. They'll tackle a challenging route, riding 125 miles and climbing over 12,000 feet through the Apennine mountains, ending in the coastal town of Rimini. After the riders have set off, if time allows, you'll take a spin around the outskirts of Florence. Your heart will race with excitement as you return to the bustling city center to watch the thrilling end of the sprint stage on TV at our hotel. Who will be the first rider to claim the coveted yellow jersey? Tonight, we'll all gather for a special gourmet dinner, surrounded by the camaraderie of new friends. As we raise our glasses, it'll be a celebration of an extraordinary and unforgettable week! Read More

Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner

Official VIP Race access passes to the Grand Depart in Florence

With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the ... With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the pros as they warm up to prepare for today's stage. Then, position yourself to watch the race's exciting start and cheer on the teams as they begin their journey from Florence to Emilio Romagne Read More

Florence Spin - Approximately 19 mi | 30 km and 1,893 ft | 577 m

TODAY'S RACE ACCESS:

TODAY'S TOUR STAGE:

Stage 1: Florence to Rimini

Day 6 Ciao!

After an amazing time together, your trip of a lifetime comes to a close. Choose to sleep in today or enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel as you reflect on the lasting memories you’ve made. You’ll say farewell to your guides at 9:30 AM at the Palazzo Montebello but you can enjoy a 12:00 PM checkout time. Please make your own onward travel arrangements to the airport, train station, or other destination of your choice.

Stage 2: Cesenatico to Bologna

Print full itinerary

View full itinerary to print.

Rider Information

Rider Level: 3

Terrain: Hilly

The terrain is consistently hilly, with quiet, narrow, and winding roads. Many towns sit atop hills and, although the ascents are not exceptionally steep, they are often upwards of five kilometers long. Our Tour de France Tuscany Grand Depart pro race tour 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. For those eager to experience every mile but mindful of their physical limits, our electric bike option offers a comfortable and enjoyable solution. Type 4+ Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer.

Daily Average

28 miles | 45 kilometers

147 miles | 236 kilometers

2,840 feet | 865 meters

14,200 feet | 4,330 meters

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. Some non-riding options on this trip are:

  • Explore the charming city of Florence or consider taking a walking tour
  • Discover why Tuscan wines are so renowned during our private wine-tasting
  • Visit historic Siena
  • Relax by the beautiful pool at Villa Curina

non rider

We've got you covered on and off the bike! Our team of guides will always have one in the support vehicle and one on the bike, ready to fill up your water bottles, fix a flat tire, or give you a lift up the hill. They'll also give you the inside scoop on the best local spots. And when you're not riding, your guides are happy to help with anything you need - from massage appointments to finding that special local treat you've been craving.

  • Fully guided and supported with two guides and one van minimum
  • Up to three daily route options on a pre-loaded Garmin GPS
  • Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics

A group of people getting fit for bikes in Glacier National Park

Set peacefully in the countryside, surrounded by the verdant hills of Chianti and just a few kilometres from Siena, this charming hotel has it all, including rich sunset views; incredibly romantic, well-appointed and individually decorated rooms; a refined, elegant restaurant; and beautiful gardens that surround the entire property, all encompassed in a 16th century hamlet that has a long and rich history.

Double hotel room with decorative wooden flooring

Set in the heart of Florence, Palazzo Montebello is a testament to luxury and history. This 18th-century boutique hotel is a moments walk from landmarks like Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. Guests are treated to rooms adorned with rich fabrics, marble bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel boasts a gourmet restaurant with courtyard dining, an elegant cocktail bar with garden views, and premium amenities like feather quilts and Egyptian cotton linens. it’s the epitome of Florentine elegance.

Bikes & Gear

New in 2023 Domane SL 7

Trek Domane SL 7

Experiencing your cycling vacation of a lifetime is not complete without a world-class bike and the latest Trek Domane is the best way to enjoy the ride. It raises the bar to deliver incredible endurance road bike comfort without sacrificing performance and features highly responsive disc brakes and electronic shifting. This new bike is lighter than ever before, and carbon wheels come standard on every bike. The road-smoothing IsoSpeed technology lets you ride as long as you want with less fatigue. The bike you ride on a biking vacation matters. That is why we provide the newest and best bikes in the business.

Trek Domane+ SLR bike

Trek Electric-Assist Domane+ SLR 7

Take the tailwind with you and leave your limits behind on the Domane+ SLR 7. With a groundbreaking ratio of ultra-lightweight design and electric assist, the Domane+ has everything you love in a road bike, with the extra boost to take you farther than ever before. This performance e-road bike will assist you on the climbs and enable you to venture further on your cycling vacation. So go ahead—take the long way. With Domane+ SLR 7, there’s always room for more distance, more speed, and more fun! Upgrade to the Domane+ SLR 7 on this trip for $399 (3-6 day trips) or $599 (7+ day trips). Available in limited quantities. Please contact a Trip Consultant to check availability.

Verve+ electric assist lowstep bike

Trek Electric-Assist Verve+

Fun from the first pedal stroke, our e-bikes give you the boost you want to venture further on your bike tour. With its low-step frame design, hopping on and off the Trek Verve+ is super easy. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain, with energy to spare.

Two cyclist and one rider

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Additional Gear

  • Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
  • Trek Travel Santini cycling socks to keep
  • Lidl-Trek Pro Team Santini cycling kit to keep
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Cinch sack day bag to keep
  • Bontrager saddle
  • Bontrager helmet
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
  • Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals, Shimano SPD mountain style pedals, caged, or flat pedals
  • A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
  • For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

A collage of cycling gear guests will use on a Trek Travel Pro Race Bike Tour.

Trip Inclusions

  • Five nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
  • Two experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
  • Daily route support with both guides and our support van
  • Daily breakfast, four lunches, and four dinners
  • Three social hours of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
  • Ride With GPS Experience for your phone with daily itinerary and route navigation information

  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
  • All gratuities for drivers, local experts, and hospitality staff
  • All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
  • A digital photo album of your trip
  • Entrance fees for all activities, private tours, and events
  • Exclusive Pro Team Access—get behind the scenes with Lidl-Trek
  • 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 transportation during the trip, including private coaches

A group of riders at the starting line at the Tour de France

  • 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.

Guide Gratuities

Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this trip, we recommend $420-$480 per guest. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

  • The Trek Travel Race Trip Difference : As Lidl-Trek’s Official Hospitality Partner, Trek Travel will deliver you to the world’s biggest races like you’ve only dreamed, and you can ride a Trek Domane SL 7 Disc bike with us on the very same routes just hours before the pros. Learn about our Race Trip Difference.
  • Our itineraries are created with the best information we have available to us at the time. Unforeseen events can affect the race, the race course, and this itinerary. Access to VIP areas and race viewings can require early morning starts, shuttles and delays in race traffic. The routes, timing, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides in order to maximize the trip experience.

Before and After Your Trip

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 either. 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- and post-trip hotel:

tuscany trek travel

Where to Stay

The Palazzo Montebello is an elegant 5-star, boutique hotel located just 10 minutes walk from all the main monuments and points of interest in Florence. Take advantage of their concierge services to plan your stay in Florence to the last detail. Please note : This is also your first day meeting point and the second trip hotel in Florence. www.palazzomontebello.com/en/

Escape the bustle of the city in the immaculately restored 18th-century Villa Cora. An outstanding hotel offering superb facilities, impeccable service, and a best-of-both-worlds location, just a 15-minute walk or a quick shuttle bus to the Ponte Vecchio and downtown. The lovely rose-filled gardens and large pool are a calm, cool refuge after a busy day in central Florence. Enjoy a day at their luxurious spa, "Bené", take a cooking class, or simply enjoy a cocktail with skyline views of the city on the rooftop terrace. www.villacora.it

Number Nine

This brand new luxury boutique hotel is located in a noble Florentine residence and has been given individual design attention to all its 46 rooms. Enjoy the finest comfort and hospitality for the discerning, modern traveller while taking full advantage of its central location and savoring the heart and soul of Florence. www.FirenzeNumberNine.com

Packing and Weather

Summers in Tuscany tend to be hot with higher daytime temperatures (80-95ºF/27-35ºC) and evening temperatures 10 degrees cooler. Rain is always a possibility, however, so be prepared with wet-weather gear in order to best enjoy your vacation. View our Packing List

Ready to book?

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

What happens once I book?

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

Guaranteed to run

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

What if I have to 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’ll find our timeline.

Have a question? Just give us a call, 866-464-8735. Read our Cancellation Policy

Travel Protection

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

Travel Services

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Pro Race trip, we recommend $420-$480 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow . But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

General FAQs

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See FAQs

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Guaranteed trips.

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.  Click here to view our full guarantee policy .

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more .

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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The World’s Best Gravel Bike Destinations According to Trek Travel

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tuscany trek travel

Everyone seems to be on the hunt for epic gravel bike rides these days.

The explosion of off-road races and social gravel rides in the past several years, coupled with a wide new group of riders who found biking during the COVID-19 pandemic, added more to the popularity of a segment of cycling that had been firmly set on the periphery of the sport for a long time.

But now that trained eyes have been scouring the globe for this niche gravel bike terrain, it looks like no region, city, or community is without a route that gets riders off paved roads.

But with gravel riding, there is always a chance that the road less traveled has been less traveled for a reason. Sometimes gravel rides tend to dead end into unrideable nothingness or land people on or too near to private property for comfort.

Having a knowledgeable guide to help find the path can make all the difference for those seeking out a new gravel bike adventure, and Trek Travel has been working hard over the past couple of years to carve out a role as that guide.

Trek Travel Trips

Trek Travel has been building cycling vacations for more than 20 years. Historically, most of the brand’s global destinations have catered to road cycling and touring. Now, the brand hosts rides in nearly 40 destinations in nearly 20 countries.

Trek Checkpoint gravel bike sitting next to a wooden fence in Vermont.

Some of the more popular trips include a cross-country trip from Portland, Ore., to Portland, Maine, and a trip to France that places riders on some of the most iconic climbs of the Tour de France.

This year’s new lineup of gravel bike trips centers on terrain that is more rugged and chunky than the brand’s usual road-centered offerings.

Trek Travel’s global network of guides has narrowed down all the gravel they could get their hands on to a shortlist of six destinations that are among the best in the world.

Green Mountains, Vermont

The Green Mountains of Vermont slice through the picturesque towns of Stowe and Waterbury, offering a healthy mix of bike paths and unpaved roads that connect riders to multiple cities and a variety of cool attractions, including the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory and the Trapp Family Lodge, of “The Sound of Music” fame.

Trek Checkpoint gravel bike on a gravel road leading to a barn in Vermont.

The mountainous landscape offers challenging climbs and fast, fun descents, along with sweeping views of farmland and foliage.

Whether on gravel or pavement, Vermont offers a lot of elevation to contend with immediately outside of towns. However, it also features a fun causeway over water that requires a small ferry ride to fully cross, architecture sweeping views at every hilltop.

Bentonville, Arkansas: Gravel Bike Hub?

The fact that Bentonville is on a list of cycling trip destinations shouldn’t surprise anyone. The city has become a destination for cyclists in the past several years. However, many Bentonville visitors come to the city for its extensive network of mountain bike trails.

tt gravel bentonville

As the town that hosts the Big Sugar Gravel bike race, it’s obvious that Bentonville is a slice of paradise for gravel riders , too.

Bentonville is situated in the Ozark Mountains but is also surrounded by farmland, so Trek Travel guides see it as a perfect spot that can accommodate riders of every skill level.

Amy Davison, one of Trek Travel’s trip designers, said Bentonville is a perfect destination for riders of all skill levels.

“One of the things that I’m most excited about is it’s not as hard as you think it’s gonna be. It’s in the Ozarks, but it’s also surrounded by farmland, and most of the gravel is rolling gravel roads in farmland, so it’s not quite as punchy or hilly as I expected,” Davison said. “I think that will be like the full ticket for absolutely any kind of gravel rider.”

Davison also said the culture of Bentonville provides another big draw.

“It’s just got a vibe that is all about cycling. As soon as you step foot in that town, you feel loved and welcomed and celebrated as a cyclist, and you don’t feel that everywhere you know, and it’s just all over town,” she said. “You see cyclists everywhere you see cycling infrastructure everywhere.”

Trek Travel sets riders up in a hotel just off the town square where riders can hop off the bike and easily explore the Wal-Mart Museum or the Crystal Bridges Art Museum after a long day of riding.

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

The Shenandoah Valley sits in a bit of a pit between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. Trek Travel uses the town of Harrisonburg as a launch pad where riders can jet off into rolling farmland and do some serious climbing.

tt gravel sv

Davison said Trek Travel connected with a local endurance gravel cyclist who helped design routes in the area. She said the routes in the valley typically involve more mixed terrain, including pavement, as it takes longer to get out into areas with gravel roads. Once there, riders wind rolling farmland, Mennonite communities, and towns that are hundreds of years old.

“It’s lots of farmlands, but also, we’re on the fringe of the mountains, so we get into the National Forest and throw a nice mountain stage at the end of that one to the high point of the state, which will be really cool and set it off a little bit from the other trips.”

Tuscany, Italy: Legendary European Gravel Bike Riding

Tuscany’s gravel is legendary . The Strada Bianche race is named after the white gravel roads in the Crete Senesi south of Siena on which pro riders battle every year. Usually, about a third of that race covers gravel roads.

White gravel roads of Tuscany.

The region also plays host to the L’Eroica vintage bike festival, on which participants ride on bikes from the ’80s rather than on the latest carbon speed machines of the day.

Davison said the roads of Tuscany also feature challenging hills that connect the northern Chianti region with the southern part of Tuscany.

While the gravel itself may not pose much of a technical challenge, the hills more than make up for it by bringing an added challenge to riders.

Tuscany’s roads are well known, but the culture of food and wine in the region is equally renowned, and riders have plenty of opportunities to sample both.

Girona, Spain: Technical Gravel Bike Terrain

Trek Travel has been running a gravel trip to Girona, Spain , for a while. It previously was the only such trip in the brand’s profile. It also has the distinction of being the ride with the highest degree of technical riding in the gravel bike lineup.

tt gravel girona

“They’ve got some single-track connectors in there and, in fact, some roads where the van can not follow to provide support,” Davison said. “So to us, we’re going to categorize that as a higher degree of difficulty because that will be different from a regular trip where the van can always follow you. Here they kind of have set points where the van meets everyone, but it definitely has some interesting connectors.”

Aside from single-track connectors, a good bit of the Girona gravel bike scene features sparsely traveled fire roads.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

St. Moritz is a resort town in the Swiss Alps at just under 6,000 feet of elevation. Having hosted the Winter Olympics twice, it’s obvious that there is plenty of extremely challenging terrain in the area to challenge cyclists when the snow melts.

Davison, however, said the idea behind the gravel trip to St. Mortiz was to offer a bit of an easier ride experience in which riders stick to the valleys rather than the frosted peaks that surround them.

She said the valleys around St. Moritz are littered with dirt roads that do not have major technical challenges, along with bike paths surrounded by mammoth peaks of the alps that provide a stunning backdrop all day.

Getting Into Gravel Biking

The new gravel bike offerings from Trek Travel give riders a new way to experience a destination by bike. It can be seriously challenging to find gravel roads and safely traverse them without experience or the ability to bail, especially overseas.

Trek Checkpoint gravel bike resting under a wooden bridge in Vermont.

Trek Travel trips feature full support from a chase van, GPS devices, on-bike guides, and a fleet of highly spec’d Trek Checkpoints , so riders don’t have to worry about the hassle of traveling with or shipping their own bikes. Trek Travel guides also hand-pick hotels, restaurants, and off-bike activities to make sure riders get the most out of the region they visit.

“(We’ve seen) the trends of people wanting to buy gravel bikes and kind of get away from traffic in some cases, or just have that little more of a sense of adventure being out in the wilderness, but not necessarily mountain biking,” said Meagan Coates of Trek Travel. “So we decided to develop a bigger collection. I think it’s just kind of dictated by what people are liking to ride and the interest in providing more experiences for folks.”

The beauty of these rides is that they are just out there for anybody to ride, but having the help of a company like Trek Travel makes logistics simple.

Trek Travel offers trips to the destinations above at price points ranging from $1,799 to $3,299.

sakai city

'Sakai City': An Inspiration for Japan's Emerging Gravel Scene

A new generation of Japanese cyclists discovers the joy of gravel riding in the culturally rich port of Sakai City. Read more…

tuscany trek travel

Mark Wilson is a freelance journalist for GearJunkie and BikeRumor. Mark has been writing about cycling, climbing, outdoor events and gear for more than a year. Before that, he spent more than a decade as a journalist at major daily newspapers in Texas covering crime, public safety and local government. Mark spent every free moment during that time carving up singletrack and gravel, or climbing with friends and family in Texas, Colorado and Mexico. Based in Texas, Mark is always looking for new trails, crags and gear to help navigate the outdoors. As a new dad, he is particularly interested in learning how to share his love of the outdoors with his son.

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Trek Travel Unveils All-New Bike Trips for 2024, allowing travelers to explore more of the world by bike

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Aug 07, 2023, 07:00 ET

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Trek Travel encourages traveler's to explore more in 2024 with new trips in the Loire Valley, Switzerland , Tuscany , and more!

MADISON, Wis. , Aug. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Trek Travel, recently named a 2023 world's best cycling tour operator by Travel & Leisure, is thrilled to announce its exciting new lineup of new trips for 2024. Targeting cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels, these new itineraries promise to deliver unforgettable experiences in some of the world's most popular cycling and cultural destinations.

Loire Valley Bike Tour - Indulge in French Royalty's Lifestyle In 2024 Trek Travel guests will get the opportunity to journey through France's Loire Valley, known for its fairytale chateaux and medieval charm. Cyclists will pedal through picturesque vineyards and countryside, savoring world-class wines and indulging in Michelin-starred feasts. The highlight of this luxury tour is an exclusive private visit to the illustrious Château de Chambord, where hidden rooms reveal captivating secrets from history. Guests will experience the beauty of Château de Chenonceau and Château de Villandry's exquisite gardens, all while relishing the enchanting tale of French royalty from the best vantage point: the seat of a bike. Learn More: Loire Valley Bike Tour

Switzerland Bike Tour - Awe-Inspiring Alpine Adventure On the Trek Travel Switzerland Bike Tour, guests will experience the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps on a cycling vacation from Lucerne to Montreux. Pedal through pristine lakes, awe-inspiring vistas, and iconic destinations such as Lucerne, the Jungfrau region, Gruyères, and Montreux. Guests will be treated to world-renowned Swiss cheese and exquisite chocolate, as well as the melodic sound of cowbells echoing through the mountains. With options for both active and recreational riders, this signature trip promises a truly immersive experience in the heart of Switzerland . Learn More: Switzerland Bike Tour

Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour - Unveil Italy's "Green Heart" After 20+ years in Tuscany , Trek Travel is excited to introduce a brand-new itinerary that makes this famous Italian region accessible for all cyclists and travelers. The Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour starts with an unbeatable price and offers guests the opportunity to experience all the charm and beauty of Italy's "Green Heart," without breaking the bank. Guests will get to experience the rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves of Umbria , while also discovering the vibrant culture and artistic heritage of hilltop towns like Bevagna, Montefalco, and Assisi. This itinerary will take guests into southern Tuscany where landscapes adorned with cypress trees and elegant farmhouses are scattered throughout each day's ride. Starting from Montepulciano, a renowned wine region, guests will discover captivating hilltop towns and witness the ancient tradition of winemaking. Learn More: Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour

In 2024, Trek Travel also plans to release a host of new self-guided destinations for cycling enthusiasts that like to explore the world's best cycling destinations at their own pace, and after a successful launch of gravel adventures in 2023, Trek Travel is also excited to announce additional gravel destinations that will be released in October. Additionally, Trek Travel will also be launching new ride camp destinations, gravel tours, and classic guided trips in Australia , allowing guests around the world to experience the wonders down under by bike.

We at Trek Travel are committed to curating unforgettable cycling experiences and providing world class hospitality" Tania Burke , President of Trek Travel. "Our new trips in the Loire Valley, Switzerland , Tuscany , as well as the introduction of new self-guided, gravel, and Australia trips, offer even more unique and exciting ways for our guest to see the world by bike. About Trek Travel:

Trek Travel, a 2023 World's Best Tour Operator, has been curating extraordinary cycling vacations around the globe for over the past 20 years. Featuring luxury accommodations, award-winning guides, and the best bikes from Trek in the industry – Trek Travel vacations are sure to delight riders of every level. Our team is made up of bike-lovers, fellow travelers, and are extremely passionate about our world-renowned hospitality.

For more information and to book your next cycling adventure, visit https://trektravel.com/ Note: Pricing, trip style, rider levels, and other details are subject to change. Please refer to Trek Travel's website for the most up-to-date information.

Media Contact

Jake Fergus , Trek Travel, 760-681-6651, [email protected]

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Reviews, Ride Experiences, Calendar, Resources & More!

Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: The Finale! Farewell Spin through the Vineyards

JOM

If you missed the big news, JOM and Lady Gravel Cyclist (aka LGC) joined Trek Travel for their Gravel Bike Tour in the Tuscany region, which began on May 29, 2023 and ended on June 2nd, 2023.

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

Farewell Spin through the Vineyards

“It’s sadly time to say farewell to this Signature Tuscan unpaved adventure. Choose to rise early for one last glorious spin at the base of Montalcino through lush, fragrant vineyards as a warm sun rises over the Tuscan countryside. Or, skip the ride and savour a cappuccino at the hotel, recounting the memories of a week well-spent. However you say goodbye to the sumptuous heart of Italy, you’ll be sure to take a small bit of it in your soul as you leave.”

Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour The Finale Video

Alternative video link for those reading via email subscription ..

TODAY’S RIDE:

  • Brunello Loop Approximately 9 mi | 14 km and 780 ft | 240 m
  • HOTEL: Capanna Suites

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

For those unaware, Trek Travel has been in the business of cycling experiences for many years, mostly on the pavement, but we’re very excited to see they’ve expanded their portfolio into the world of gravel cycling! Trek Travel’s gravel bike tours combine mixed-surface roads in the company of guides well acquainted with the area, aboard world class bikes such as the Trek Checkpoint, and the company’s e-Bike, the Domane +, a review of which is posted in the link below.

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

Also linked below, a link to signup for Trek Travel’s newsletter to learn more about the new destinations Trek Travel has included in their gravel lineup, which include Bentonville, Shenandoah Valley, Swiss Alps, Girona, and Vermont. More destinations are going to be added next year, so you will not want to miss out on getting early access to those new dates and destinations!

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

If any of our viewing audience is interested in any of Trek Travel’s gravel trips, use promo code GRAVCYCLIST23 to save yourself $200 off your first trip. Don’t be shy, come along for the fun!

Additional Photos

trek travel tuscany gravel trip

Visit the Trek Travel Website for more information. Day Five coming soon!

More to come from our Italy trip, watch this space!

Support Gravel Cyclist: Buy Me a Coffee – https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gravelcyclist OR Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/gravelcyclist

Links of Interest:

  • Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day One
  • Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Two
  • Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Three
  • Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Four
  • Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M Review: The Best All-Rounder Gravel Tire?
  • Trek Travel – https://trektravel.com – Use promo code GRAVCYCLIST23 to save yourself $200 off your first trip.
  • Trek Travel Newsletter Signup – https://trektravel.com/contact-us/newsletter-sign-up/
  • Trek Travel’s Gravel Destinations – https://trektravel.com/trip-type/gravel/
  • 2023 Trek Bicycles Domane SLR + eBike Review
  • 2023 Trek Bicycles Domane SLR Review
  • Gravel Bike Tyre Pressure Guidelines
  • Tailwind Nutrition (JOM’s choice of on-the-bike hydration)
  • Gravel Cyclist’s Route Library

Don’t forget to Like the Gravel Cyclist Facebook page , follow G.C. on Instagram , and subscribe to our Youtube Channel . We are also on Twitter !

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More From Forbes

Under the tuscan cloud: why you should go to tuscany in the off-season.

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A visit during slow season provides travelers the opportunity to embrace the slow culture Tuscany is ... [+] beloved for.

With films like Under The Tuscan Sun and Call Me By Your Name romanticizing Italy in the summer, it’s no wonder the season is the country’s busiest. But with the country seeing unprecedented numbers of visitors—last year they received an estimated 68 million visitors , three million more than before the pandemic in 2019—it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find the magic of Italy amidst the crowds. Since the early days of Tuscany’s tourism economy in the 1980s, the region has remained a summer destination that largely shuts down to visitors during the winter months. But with the growing number of visitors in the summer, hotels in the region have gradually been expanding their seasons to open earlier and close later, providing visitors an opportunity to see Tuscany when it’s not flooded with tourists.

Castelfalfi will reopen March 23, 2024, making it one of the resorts with the longest opening season ... [+] in Tuscany.

Castelfalfi is one of the resorts open the longest, closing for just two months beginning in January and reopening in March. Set in the rolling hills of Tuscany an hour outside Florence, Castelfalfi is more than a hotel—it’s a 2,700 estate with its own medieval village, lake, forest and vineyards, meaning you don’t need to leave if you visit in the shoulder season when other tourist attractions are closed. Best of all, visiting before the summer rush means plenty of opportunities to embrace the slow culture Tuscany is beloved for.

Castelfalfi has its own 2,000-year-old village with a 800-year-old castle, clothing shops and a 15th ... [+] century church.

Wandering the cobblestone streets of Castelfalfi’s 2,000-year-old village where you’ll find a 800-year-old castle, contemporary clothing shops and calming baroque music pouring out of the 15 th century church, feels like a journey back in time without the crowds. With its own market and skating rink at Christmas and festivities for Easter, the village (referred to as the ‘borgo’) is unique for being open to and frequented by locals, unlike most resorts in the region which have closed gates. Continuing onward past the village, four hiking trails take you through the quiet rolling hills speckled with towering cypress trees and past the 27-hole golf course, the largest in Tuscany. Those seeking more of a thrill can find it ziplining through the canopy or taking a survival course, two of several activities on offer in the adventure park.

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Castelfalfi's adventure park offers ziplining and survival courses.

Immersion in nature is Tuscany’s greatest selling point and thus the thorough line of Castelfalfi. A visit during the shoulder season allows visitors to experience the Tuscan countryside through all the senses without the distraction of others. A private pizza making class in a trattoria that predates the resort is even more special when it’s just you and the pizzaiolo.

Guests at Castelfalfi can partake in a private pizza making class in a trattoria that predates the ... [+] resort.

Visitors can feel like they’re Stanley Tucci wandering through the 61-acres of vineyards and near 100-acres of olive groves followed by a tasting of the resort’s nine varieties of wine and four types of olives. The shoulder season is the best time for foodies to visit as olive oil harvest takes place in October and truffle hunting is best in November. While visiting in the spring offers no shortage of culinary delights as the menus at their five onsite restaurants are rooted in Tuscan tradition and source ingredients from the bounty of the estate.

The shoulder season is the best time for truffle hunting with a Castelfalfi guide.

Those seeking a Tuscany of centuries’ past will want to stay in the newly renovated historic tobacco warehouse which features 31 traditional rooms designed in authentic Tuscan style. Internationally renowned French decorating firm Affine design collaborated with Italian studio Caberlon Caroppi to design the 115 other guest rooms in the hotel’s main building opposite the warehouse. Featuring a warm, earthy color palette and furnishings made of natural materials like wood and wrought iron, the contemporary rooms reflect the surrounding tranquility of the Tuscan landscape. The spacious signature suites and further removed farmhouse-inspired villas, which have multiple bedrooms and their own pool, are ideal for families or those who want to feel like they’re living in Tuscany.

A junior suite at Castelfalfi.

The only experience at Castelfalfi that is not inspired by the destination is the newly renovated 16,000-square-foot RAKxa Wellness Spa, created in collaboration with coveted Thai wellness brand RAKxa. The Bangkok-based retreat center worked with Castelfalfi to create three exclusive massage treatments. The ‘Good Night Sleep’ massage incorporates singing bowls and works with the body’s energy points to facilitate deeper slumbers; the ‘Tension Release’ combines Thai massage techniques with stretching to remove blockages along the body’s meridian lines and improve circulation; and the ‘Seven Chakra Hot Stone Massage’ aims to restore harmony to the body using warm natural stones and crystals.

Castelfalfi's five dining concepts source ingredients from the bounty of the estate.

Beyond the Thai-influenced treatments, the spa offers a wide variety of facial, body and beauty treatments, many of which incorporate essential oils and indigenous herbs sourced from the surrounding landscape. Guests seeking warmth during the chillier shoulder season will appreciate the heated indoor-outdoor pool, two saunas, Turkish bath and sensory showers.

Castelfalfi indoor-outdoor pool is heated and open year-round.

Whether you’re wandering the Medieval village, savoring a truffle-infused olive oil or hiking an empty trail through the rolling Tuscan hills, visiting Tuscany during the slow season provides the solitude necessary to experience the slow culture that made Tuscany into the coveted destination it is today.

Anna Haines

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  1. The Best 10 Places to Visit in Tuscany, Italy

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  2. Tuscany travel guide: everything you need to know

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  3. Best Things to Do and See in Florence and Tuscany, Italy

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  4. 3 Scenic drives in Tuscany, Italy

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  5. The Best 10 Places to Visit in Tuscany, Italy

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  6. Hidden highlights of Tuscany Travel Guide

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COMMENTS

  1. Tuscany Bike Tour

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant landscapes of Tuscany from the seat of your bike, where endless vineyards and the aromatic air enchant every sense. Tuscan hills present stunning, joyful terrains for cycling enthusiasts. ... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you on Via Fiume, 12, 50123, Florence, Italy, in front of the Hotel Albani at 10:30 AM ...

  2. Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour

    Tuscany's limestone gravel roads are deeply intertwined with Italy's heritage. This legendary countryside brims with the kind of pure delights that awaken your senses. ... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you on Via Fiume, 12, 50123, Florence, Italy, in front of the Hotel Albani at 10:30 AM on the first day of the trip. Please wait here to ...

  3. Tuscany Bike Tour 2024 Itinerary

    Your Trek Travel guides will meet you on Via Fiume, 12, 50123, Florence, Italy, in front of the Hotel Albani at 10:30 AM on the first day of the trip. Please wait here to meet your Trek Travel guide. You'll then shuttle approximately two hours to your lunch spot for a taste of Tuscan cuisine. After lunch, your guides will do a bike fitting to ...

  4. Tuscany Self-Guided Bike Tour

    See the Tuscany you've always imagined on this self-guided bike tour, with its incomparable riding, breathtaking beauty, and rich culture. ... Your Trek Travel host will meet you at your trip hotel Villa Liberty (Via Dante Alighieri 119, 53027 San Quirico D'orcia SI) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. ...

  5. Tuscany 3-Day Weekend Self-Guided Bike Tour

    Your Trek Travel host will meet you at your trip hotel Villa Liberty (Via Dante Alighieri, 119, 53027 San Quirico D'orcia SI) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. ... and along narrow and winding roads. Our Tuscany Self-Guided Bike Tour is best suited for our Level 3 Riders. For those eager to experience every mile but mindful of their ...

  6. Tuscany 3-Day Weekend Self-Guided Bike Tour 2024-2025 Itinerary

    Your Trek Travel host will meet you at your trip hotel Villa Liberty (Via Dante Alighieri, 119, 53027 San Quirico D'orcia SI) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Depending on the number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes.

  7. Tour de France Ultimate Experience: Tuscany Grand Depart 2024

    Join us in Tuscany to celebrate the 111th edition of the Tour de France, where we proudly present the ultimate Tour de France 2024 experience! As the Official Tour Operator for the Tour de France and Lidl-Trek racing team, Trek Travel offers an exclusive VIP trip with unparalleled behind-the-scenes access to the team at the heart of the world ...

  8. Tuscany Bike Tour

    On a Trek Travel Tuscany bike tour, surrender your senses to the "allegria" of Italy. Soak in the rich sights and smells of the endless vineyards from the sa...

  9. The Perfect Tuscany Itinerary for 3 Days, 5 Days & One Week

    Here is a sample itinerary: Day 1: Florence, sleep in Florence. Day 2: Florence, sleep in Florence. Day 3: Travel to Siena in the morning, afternoon in Siena, sleep in Siena. Day 4: Morning in Siena, afternoon in Monteriggioni, sleep in Siena. Piazza del Campo, Siena.

  10. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour

    "Our Tuscany Gravel bike tour is brimming with amazing rides, and the culinary delights, history and classic beauty that make this region famous. Tuscany's l...

  11. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Three! Views & Vistas of

    Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour Day 3 Video Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription. Continued from Above: "We arrive this afternoon at our destination, an elegant luxury agriturismo (Agriturismo Perecenna), that has a unique perspective on the traditions of this beautiful region. Tonight, your guides will shuttle ...

  12. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day One!

    Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour Day 1 Video Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription. For those unaware, Trek Travel has been in the business of cycling experiences for many years, mostly on the pavement, but we're very excited to see they've expanded their portfolio into the world of gravel cycling! Trek Travel ...

  13. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Two! Radda to Gaiole Loop

    Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour Day 2 Video Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription. Continued from Above: "After lunch, we'll continue winding through fragrant vineyards to the cypress-lined entrance of Castello di Brolio, the famous castle that has been the home of the Ricasoli family for 800 years. The ...

  14. The World's Best Gravel Bike Destinations According to Trek Travel

    Trek Travel offers cycling vacations l over the world. This year, it has expanded its destinations with six trips dedicated to gravel; (photo/Mark Wilson) Some of the more popular trips include a ...

  15. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day One!

    If you missed the big news, JOM and Lady Gravel Cyclist (aka LGC) will be joining Trek Travel for their Gravel Bike Tour in the Tuscany region, starting on M...

  16. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: Day Four! Pedal through Val d

    Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour Day 4 Video Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription. Continued from Above: "You'll continue through the medieval villages of San Quirico d'Orcia and Pienza, with buildings dating to the 15th century and epic views from every hilltop. Don't forget to stop and savor the scenery ...

  17. Riding a Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour with Trek Travel! Coming late May

    Not counting the beauty of the region we just alluded to, JOM and LGC will be joining Trek Travel for their Gravel Bike Tour in the Tuscany region, starting on May 29, 2023 and ending on June 2nd, 2023. It promises to be an amazing experience; there aren't too many places in the world where you can ride gravel among castles such as Castello ...

  18. Tuscany Official Tourism Website

    Find out here everything you need to know about visiting Tuscany: attractions, ideas, itineraries, events, deals, recipes and tours.

  19. 5 European E-Bike Trips For 2023

    Tuscany Bike Tour. On this Trek Travel Tuscany Bike Tour, you ride from Chianti to the Val d'Orcia, past vineyards, and through the rolling countryside. From tasting Chianti Classico in Radda to a ...

  20. Trek Travel Unveils All-New Bike Trips for 2024, allowing ...

    Trek Travel encourages traveler's to explore more in 2024 with new trips in the Loire Valley, Switzerland, Tuscany, and more! MADISON, Wis., Aug. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Trek Travel, recently named a 2023 world's best cycling tour operator by Travel & Leisure, is thrilled to announce its exciting new lineup of new trips for 2024. Targeting cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels, these ...

  21. North Florida to Rome, Italy: Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour

    A tiny piece of Firenze (Florence) If you missed the big news, JOM and Lady Gravel Cyclist (aka LGC) joined Trek Travel for their Gravel Bike Tour in the Tuscany region, which began on May 29, 2023 and ended on June 2nd, 2023. This short video is the experience of traveling from North Florida (NorFLA) to Roma (Rome) and Firenze (Florence), Italy!

  22. Trek Travel Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour: The Finale! Farewell Spin through

    If you missed the big news, JOM and Lady Gravel Cyclist (aka LGC) joined Trek Travel for their Gravel Bike Tour in the Tuscany region, which began on May 29, 2023 and ended on June 2nd, 2023. Giorgio aka Gio, one of our two guides during this experience

  23. Why You Should Go To Tuscany In The Off-Season

    Set in the rolling hills of Tuscany an hour outside Florence, Castelfalfi is more than a hotel—it's a 2,700 estate with its own medieval village, lake, forest and vineyards, meaning you don ...