Epic Italy. The world s most comprehensive pedaling portrait of La Bella Italia EPIC ITALY 2018 ITINERARY OUTLINE CLASSICO. Trip Essence / Page 2

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1 Epic Italy The world s most comprehensive pedaling portrait of La Bella Italia Snake your way through the orchards and lagoons of Ravenna, tour the Tuscan hills on two wheels, and cycle past dramatic views of the Scanno gorges on this seamless, once-in-a-lifetime route across six different regions of Italy. An exclusive Ciclismo odyssey since 1995, this delightful tour is packed with storybook landscapes, zig-zagging climbs, breathtaking descents, and one perfect pedaling day after another. Savor the local specialties: the black truffles of Norcia, fresh-baked dense bread and the fresh-pressed olive oil in Spoleto. ITINERARY OUTLINE Trip Essence / Page 2 Daily Itinerary / Page 3-9 Arrival & Departure / Page 10 Bike Information / Page 10 Terms & Conditions / Page 11 Reserve Your Space! / Page 11 Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 1

2 TRIP ESSENCE An excellent package with high value: more miles, more sights, more regions of Italy: Emilia-Romagna, Toscana, Umbria, Marche, Abruzzo, Lazio... each with its own culture, art, food and wine! Visits to local bike shops Travel to the ceramic capital of Faenza. Ride along Italy s fourth largest lake Overnight sojourns at cultural centers Ferrara, Ravenna, Firenze, Arezzo, Cortona, Spoleto, Ascoli Piceno and Gaeta A stay at the base of Gran Sasso, the highest Appennine peak WHAT S INCLUDED Carbon bike rental, see page 10 for details Service of local, professional guides throughout the program Ciclismo jersey and water bottle All accommodations 11 dinners, all breakfasts, welcome lunch on the first day & 2 picnic punches TRIP DETAILS 2018 Trip Dates Jun 17 - Jul 1 Aug 26 - Sep 9 Ability Level Advanced Summary of Daily Distances Day 1: 15 miles Day 2: 55 miles Day 3: 87 miles Day 4: Rest Day Day 5: 53/62 miles Day 6: 60/72 miles Day 7: 75 miles Day 8: 40 miles Day 9: 49 miles Day 10: Rest Day Day 11: 75 miles Day 12: 67 miles Day 13: 47/61 miles Day 14: 53 miles Day 15: Arrivederci! Optional extra loops available Trip Price $6,995 Single Supplement: $1,100 2 wine tastings Cycling clinics Guided walking tour of Florence Transfer to train station at end of the tour Have something else in mind? Itinerary available as a private tour or... Create a custom itinerary with help from our experienced travel consultants! Contact Us info@ciclismoclassico.com Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 2

3 DAY 1 FERRARA Daily Mileage - 15 miles Riding Terrain - Rolling Hotel - Hotel Ferrara Location: Ferrara home.html Today we meet at 1pm at our hotel for a light lunch followed by an introduction talk, bike fitting and a warm-up ride. Ferrara is one of the centers of Italian Renaissance history and an outpost of papal power in the north. Bicycles are the favorite mode of transportation on its streets, which are closed to car traffic! Ferrara, with its uniquely well preserved walls, is home to the stupendous monuments from the 13th-15th century: the Castle of Estensi, the Lion s tower, della Quercia s Madonna of the Pomegranate, Rossetti s Renaissance Palace of Diamonds, the poet Ariosto s home, and many more! Located within the enchanting framework of the 14th-century Estense Castle, Hotel Ferrara is one of the most prestigious establishments in the city. Each room features a full HD LED TV with international channels and free Wi-Fi. A public shuttle to and from Marconi Airport is provided. Rooms have a classic design with wood floors and elegant furnishings. Suites includes a private wellness area. DAY 2 FERRARA TO RAVENNA Daily Mileage - 55 miles Riding Terrain - Rolling all day - total vertical climb: 209 ft Hotel - Diana Hotel Location: Ravenna Today s ride crosses into Emilia Romagna following a gorgeous ride that snakes its way through orchards of fruit trees and lagoons. We ll cross the Reno River via a boat bridge. Match grass, vast rice paddies and wheat fields line the road. In the afternoon we make our way to Ravenna, a quiet city with a sparkling history. Heir to the Roman Empire, the port of Classis (later Ravenna) was one of the only European cities to prosper during the Dark Ages. Ravenna s churches host some of the finest mosaics from this time, and as Dante s city of refuge during Florentine exile, Ravenna also hosts his tomb and museum. We recommend that you try to keep a steady pace in order to arrive in Ravenna in time to enjoy the incredible mosaics, museum and piazzas close to the hotel. The hotel is close to the church of San Giovanni Battista and a few blocks away from the Basilica di San Vitale, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, and from the tomb of Dante Alighieri. Rooms at Diana Hotel are all uniquily designed and furnished. Satellite TV, air conditioning, room service and free Wi-Fi available. Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 3

4 DAY 3 RAVENNA TO FLORENCE Daily Mileage - 87 miles Riding Terrain - Total vertical climb: 4245 ft - from 0 ft to 984 ft in about 50 mi Marradi to Colle di Casalia: from 984 ft to 2985 ft (2227 ft in 12 mi) climb to Vetta Le Croci - from 623 ft to 1656 ft (1033 ft in 9 mi) Hotel - Villa Fiesole Location: Florence Duration: 2 Nights Today s ride is the longest ride of the trip with our first real climb. We ride from the Emilia Romagna region to Toscana. Beginning in Ravenna, the gorgeous ride spins through endless fruit orchards along tiny farm roads all the way to Faenza, a charming village internationally known for its ceramics. From Faenza, the elevation gain begins but so do the beautiful views of the Tuscan hills! The farmland turns to mountain landscape as we zig zag our way to Marradi. The descent to Borgo San Lorenzo is exhilarating but twisting- so take it slowly! After Borgo, climb #2 begins gradually and becomes steeper through Polcanto. The descent down from Vetta La Croce is called La Panoramica, a perfect nickname as it looks out over Monte Morello. On the side of an ancient Etruscan Hill in Fiesole (a suburb of Florence), surrounded by centuries old woods, is the Villa Fiesole. In a beautiful restored 19th century villa, this 32-room hotel features a frescoed ceiling and an old but recently restored greenhouse. DAY 4 FIRENZE! Riding Terrain - Walking tour of the city Hotel - See Day 3 A free day to see the smaller back roads of Florence. We start the day with a guided tour of this magical city. Wander through the labyrinthine streets that painters, philosophers, and princes once called home. Meander around Signora Square and stand next to the statue of David, admire the Duomo of Florence, and go in search of the city s best gelato! Our Florentine guide will show us the best- kept secrets of this marvelous town. After lunch you ll have a free afternoon to continue exploring this jewel of the Renaissance. Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 4

5 DAY 5 FLORENCE TO AREZZO Daily Mileage - 53/62 miles Riding Terrain - Steady gain in elevation with some plateaus. Total vertical climb: 1975 ft on main route and 3740 ft on the extra loop Hotel - Vogue Hotel Location: Arezzo Today s ride offers a lovely sample of picture-perfect Tuscan landscape. We will drop down into the Arno valley with smooth roads lined by olive groves. The climb to Reggello is shaded, steady, lovely and never too steep. This area is known for its delicious olive oil. From Reggello, the ride is heavenly, curving in and out of the foothills of the Aretina. Notice the vineyards and olive groves to your right and lush forests to your left. In the distance to your right, you ll see a long mountain range - the Chianti hills. We slowly lose elevation as we spin through tiny villages. Loro Ciuffena is the most picturesque. Make sure to stop and take lots of photos today! Located in the heart of the city, this hotel is the perfect location for conducting business or for enjoying the sights of the city. The hotel offers 26 exceptional rooms, all of them with a different design and layout for a unique experience. DAY 6 AREZZO TO CORTONA Daily Mileage - 60/72 miles Riding Terrain - Several climbs not too long or difficult. Total vertical climb: 1558 ft on main route and 2687 ft on extra loop Hotel - Hotel San Luca Location: Cortona We begin with flat and rolling terrain through corn, wheat and sunflower fields, and the route dips up and down through several small villages. It s a favorite route for local cyclists so be sure to say: SALVE (greetings), ALE ALE (go, go), or FORZA, FORZA (push, push). The hills are not too long although there are a couple of steep sections. In the distance are many tiny hill towns. The extra loop to Pienza is challenging but absolutely gorgeous with golden hills framed by cypress trees. The descent from Montepulciano is fantastic! Reserve some energy and time to stroll through Cortona, the gorgeous hilltown where time has stopped. Located in the historic center of Cortona which for more than 40 years has been a point of reference for those who wish to sojourn in this city of ancient Etruscan origin. The hotel is furnished with every comfort; conference room, stupendous sun deck with 2 whirlpool tubs large enough for 4 guests each, the new scenic gym, wellness centre (next opening), and wireless internet. Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 5

6 DAY 7 CORTONA TO SPOLETO Daily Mileage - 75 miles Riding Terrain - Several climbs up to the hill towns, especially Montefalco. Total vertical climb: 2542 ft Hotel - San Luca Location: Spoleto Today is a long ride into Spoleto. We ride through the heart of Umbria with several hills around Lago Trasimeno and then along flat road to Bevagna. About 10km after passing Torgiano admire the mountains to your left. On a clear day you can see Assisi on the hillside. In July these fields are covered with glowing sunflower fields. There s a bit of traffic near Torgiano where many roads go to Perugia--where Baci Perugina are made! Try to keep on a steady pace with short stops in Bevagna and Montefalco so you ll have time to see Spoleto. But DO stop in Bevagna and Montefalco, for they are wonderfully charming and historic towns. Bevagana boasts Roman baths covered in elaborate marine mosaics, and Montefalco s frescoes by Gozzoli depict the life of St Francis. This recently restored 4-star hotel has a soothing sitting room done in soft gold and white marble. Antiques & books about the area surround the bar. Gorgeous, spacious rooms with all the amenities plus bathrooms with whirlpool. DAY 8 SPOLETO TO NORCIA Daily Mileage - 40 miles Riding Terrain - Lots of short climbs. Total vertical climb: 4704 ft on main route and 5980 ft on extra loop Hotel - Casale Nel Parco Location: Norcia Great ride in this peaceful side of Umbria. We start with a 5.5 mile climb immediately outside Spoleto, which is gradual and will immerse you in this amazing Umbrian landscape, the Valnerina. As you ride, observe all the little ghost villages, is there anybody up there? Well go check it out! After the 1st pass we descend a bit till we reach Borgo Cerreto, a rolling road until Preci. This is where we enter the Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini, the first of many National Parks we ll ride through on the tour. Recommended detour to visit the Abbazia di Sant Eutizio VI-XIII century. After Preci, continue to the last 9 km. climb of the day and final descend to Norcia. Famous as the birth place of San Benedetto, Norcia is also very famous for black truffles and norcinerie. Today is the first day of a week in the mountains so pace yourself it s only the beginning. Beautiful farmhouse (Casale, in Italian) found deep in the countryside, along a road that leads to the highest mountains in Umbria. The landscape around it is a series of valleys, rivers and ancient roads that crossed the Apennine mountains between Umbria and the Marche region. The land is rich in art, history, culture and traditions that make a visit here a unique experience. Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 6

7 DAY 9 NORCIA TO ASCOLI PICENO Daily Mileage - 49 miles Riding Terrain - Hills and climbing. Total vertical climb: 4304 mi Hotel - Hotel Palazzo Guiderocchi Location: Ascoli Piceno Duration: 2 Nights From Norcia, it s all up for about 13 miles, most of the climb is a steady and predictable grade. Witness incredible views of Norcia and the surrounding valley the entire way. The secret to a long climb like this is to find a pace that you could keep all day long and stick with it. Be patient with the hill and yourself expect the climb to take 1-2 hours to complete (there s no hurry). At the very top is a magnificent, unforgettable view of the Piano Grande and the surrounding peak softly molded by time and the elements Your efforts will surely be rewarded. From Piano Grande another climb that starts gradually and gets steeper as you approach the summit, offering more gorgeous views and photo ops. The descent is fabulous. A bit of an up to Balzo then zigzag through a peaceful green forest. The last hill to Venarotta goes by quickly compared to your morning efforts. Descend into Ascoli. Make sure to check out Ascoli, especially the Piazza del Popolo at around 7:00 pm when the piazza is filled with Italians of all ages all dressed up for their evening stroll, a delightful people-watching experience. Welcome to the Appenines!!! Pack your wind jacket!! Weather permitting, this ride is one of the most spectacular of the trip. Palazzo Guiderocchi is situated in one of the oldest parts of town, steps away from one of the most beautiful Italian town parlors: Piazza del Popolo. A recently renovated hotel with beautifully refined features. DAY 10 ASCOLI PICENO REST DAY Daily Mileage - 39 miles optional ride Riding Terrain - Hilly. Total vertical climb: 1699 ft Explore the region on a loop ride to Offida, world famous for its bobbin lace works. Ascoli Piceno is an almost perfectly preserved medieval town. The buildings are ancient, and many roads are narrow, winding, cobblestone paths. This sets the theme for most of the towns and villages we visit for the rest of the tour all are charmingly ancient, authentic, and unspoiled by tourism. Hotel - See Day 9 Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 7

8 DAY 11 ASCOLI PICENO TO FONTE CERRETO Daily Mileage - 75 miles Riding Terrain - Four great climbs, before and after Teramo, up to Valico delle Capannelle and 2 miles before the hotel. Total vertical climb: 7011 ft Hotel - Hotel Nido Dell Aquila Location: Fonte Cerreto Before departing, take a quick spin to see the market behind the main square of Ascoli. Grab some fruit for the road while making friends with the locals. A spin through Ascoli s sparkling main piazza in the morning is a special treat. The marble surface of the piazza looks practically polished. Our ride starts out with some traffic but as we climb through the valley, the traffic subsides. As we near the summit, you see the peaks of the imposing Grand Sasso, the highest peaks of the Apennines. Teramo is a bustling city that has several fine monuments including a Roman theatre, a stunning cathedral, and an observatory. We will enter the National Park of Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga. The beautiful landscape will serve as a great reward for the long climb. We end in Fonte Cerreto, a small sky resort town in the Apennines. In the beautiful surroundings of two national parks, the Nido Dell Aquila Hotel is a typical mountain chalet dedicated to those who love nature, sports, and traditions. The refined internal architecture along with the warmth of the wood, create a romantic atmosphere. DAY 12 FONTE CERRETO TO CARAMANICO Daily Mileage - 67 miles Riding Terrain - Climbing followed by some incredible downhills. Total vertical climb: 4547 mi Hotel - La Reserve Location: Caramanico Terme s Today s ride is truly glorious with cascading descents and plenty of crisp mountain air. We start out climbing towards Campo Imperatore from Fonte Cerreto. A soft light molds this spectacular moonscape -- a panoramic camera can t even do this landscape justice. We have a fast and fun descent through a lush plain -- don t forget to look behind you to see the views! We climb again just before Castel Monte and then the Abruzzo curtain goes up. We continue with a descent and then a short climb to Calascio, an ancient abandoned village at 4625 ft that seems to be at the top of the world. From Calascio the descent seems to go on forever! We have a short climb to Capestrano, a wonderful village with its Tuscan Piccolomini castle that is used as the town hall today. We also offer an optional shuttle to Caramanico Terme. We finish with five hills bringing us all the way to Caramanico Terme. Comfortable and functional rooms, specifically designed for the guest s well being Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 8

9 DAY 13 CARAMANICO TO PESCOCOSTANZO Daily Mileage - 47/61 miles Riding Terrain - A long gentle climb from Caramanico to Passo San Leonardo (1263 ft ft), then a long descent to Sulmona and a gradual climb from Sulmona to Pescocostanzo with some stretches of flat roads. Total vertical climb: 5603 ft Hotel - Hotel Archi del Sole Location: Pescocostanzo Unlike yesterday s barren, dramatic landscape, today s ride offers a taste of the lush yet rugged Maiella, a mountain range that was more recently made into a national park. Our ride takes us through several charming villages in the morning each one conveniently placed on top of a hill with valleys separating them. We wind our way through two mountain chains via beautiful gorges and orchards. From San Eufemia all the way to the top of the pass, the road gently climbs along the edge of this spectacular chain. From Passo San Leonardo, it s a roller coaster descent towards Pacentro and down to Sulmona. The capital of confetti (the almond candies given away at Italian weddings), Sulmona is easily visited in 2 hours and it s quite a lively little town. From Sulmona we have a long climb to Pescocostanzo with some flat parts. Pescocostanzo is considered one of Abruzzo s most authentic villages and this area is very famous in the Apennines for winter sports. The Hotel Archi del Sole offers an unforgettable welcome in rooms full featured in the historical center of Pescocostanzo.Gabriella and Marco offer Bed-and-Breakfast accomodation, but they can book for you the right local restaurant whether at lunch or dinner time. The structure is made up of 20 rooms in three historical buildings located in the center of Pescocostanzo. DAY 14 PESCOCOSTANZO TO GAETA Daily Mileage - 53 miles Riding Terrain - Rolling hills with an incredible final downhill. Total vertical climb: 3385 ft Hotel - Le Rocce Location: Gaeta From Pescocostanzo we ride through the Abruzzo National Park, Italy s second largest park. The oldest in the Apennines, this park plays an important role in the preservation of many species such as the Italian Wolf, Chamois and Brown Bear. Keep a look out for these rare animals, among the park s plentiful array of flora and fauna. Roughly two- thirds of the area consists of Beech Trees, although many other trees grow here, including the Silver Birch, Black and Mountain Pines. We end our ride along the coast in the town of Gaeta, a historic city with beautiful vistas of the sea. Check out the city s famous Anjou-Aragon castle. Purportedly built in the 10th century, it was recently reconstructed due to substantial damages sustained during WWII. Tonight we ll celebrate our remarkable Italian journey with a succulent seafood feast and abundant toasts! The 4-star hotel is nestled in a secluded inlet surrounded by lush vegetation. A delightful hotel on the sea with rambling gardens and a private beach. All rooms have a view of the Mediterranean. Sitting rooms and bar are large and graciously decorated. Veranda restaurant offers fine seafood specialties. Rooms are large, each uniquely decorated and designed. DAY 15 ARRIVEDERCI At around 9am after breakfast we provide one 15 minute group shuttle to the closest train station in Formia. If you like to extend your stay in the area we highly recommend an excursion to the sleepy volcanic island of Ponza. Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 9

10 ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE GETTING TO FERRARA For easier return: Fly to Rome (FCO) and take a train to Roma Termini station (30 min.), then a train ( to Ferrara (3.5 hrs - change in Bologna) and reach the hotel by taxi in 10 minutes. Option 2: Fly to Florence Peretola (FLR), then take the airport shuttle (Volainbus) or taxi to Florence Santa Maria Novella station (15 minutes). From the station you can catch a train to Ferrara (1.5 hrs). Option 3: Fly to Bologna (BLQ) and take a bus to Bologna Train Station, then train to Ferrara (30 min.) Option 4: Fly to Venice (VCE) and take the shuttle bus to Benice mestra train station, then train to Ferrara (1.5 hrs). DEPARTING FROM GAETA OTHER INFORMATION For Flight Reservations Valerie Wilson Travel Call: or ciclismoair@vwti.com Travel Insurance MH Ross Call: Transportation Rome2rio Around 9 am after breakfast we provide one 15 minte group shuttle to the closest train station in Formia. Trains from Formia to Rome takes hrs and leave as early as 5 am (there s a train every 15 or 30 at the latest). BIKE INFORMATION Bianchi Via Nirone 7 Bianchi carbon fork, Shimano 105 triple groupset, an adjustable stem, and a wheel set laced with 32 spokes and 25mm tires. Included on all tours Aluminum Hybrid More relaxed riding at a look-around-you pace, this is our custom-built, highperformance aluminum hybrid bicycles with straight handlebars. We also have woman-specific frame. Included on all tours Bianchi Intenso and Vertigo The carbon frame guarantees maximum performance with minimum stress for the riders, thanks to Bianchi s special C2C (Coast to Coast) frame design/ geometry and different material combination. Carbon bikes are equipped with compact crank and 11/32 cassette. Available for $250 Bianchi Intenso or Vertigo with Shimano included on all intermediate and advanced tours at no extra charge Tandems Cannondale road or hybrid: racing posture with 700c wheels, or a more straight up position and 26 inch wheels. Co-motion Periscope: accommodates smaller team or even children. Available for $400 Honey tandem: light and responsive and perfect for experienced tandem riders. Available for $400 ebikes Available on all easy and athletic beginner tours, some intermediate and advanced tours. Please contact us for more information. Available for $400 Bike type outside of Europe may vary, please contact us at for more information. ON THE BIKE Included Ciclismo Classico water bottle Two water bottle holders Map holder on handlebars (or Garmin Edge GPS) Handlebar bag Tire pump Combination bike lock Gel-padded saddle Choice of pedals Card with your tour leaders mobile phone numbers Garmin Edge GPS Included on all carbon bikes and premium tandems (Co- Motion and Honey) $30 rental fee for other bikes Pedal Options Flat pedals Half-toe pedals (without straps) Toe cage pedals Things to Bring Helmet Optional: clipless pedals with shoes Optional: your own saddle Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 10

11 INSURANCE, TERMS & CONDITIONS Insurance Ciclismo Classico will not assume responsibility or liability for any loss or damage of personal effects or for any injury or loss during the duration of the tour. Therefore, we highly recommend that you obtain travel insurance. Information on travel insurance will be sent to you via once trip deposit is received. We recommend MH Ross, but travelers may choose the insurance carrier of their choice. Cancellations and Refunds All requests for refunds must be submitted in writing as soon as possible to Ciclismo Classico. Exceptions to their cancellation policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies. There is no refund for unexpectedly leaving a trip early or arriving late. The purchase of short-term travel insurance policy is strongly recommended. Cancellation fees are determined as followed: Days before departure Cancellation fee 121+ days - 50% of the deposit* days - 100% of the deposit* days - 30% of the trip price days - 60% of the trip price days - 100% of the trip price *You may transfer your trip deposit to another departure in the same tour season up to 90 days before your original departure with payment of a $100 per person transfer fee. Prices quoted are subject to adjustment without prior notification. OR your deposit (currently $600) may be carried forward to the following year as a credit toward the final balance of a tour. At the time of booking, we will ask for another $600 deposit to secure your spot. Carried-forward credits expire at the end of the year to which they are applied. Alterations to the tour itinerary Sometimes modifications may be made to the itinerary. We will notify you of any changes that may affect your arrival, departure or lodging. Any changes to the program are made in the best interest and safety of the group. To review our policies, please visit RESERVE YOUR SPACE! To reserve a space, call Ciclismo Classico at Or, mail your deposit and contact information to: Ciclismo Classico attn: Rosa 30 Marathon St Arlington, MA At the time of registration, a deposit of $600 per person is due, payable by Visa, MasterCard, American Express or check, made payable to Ciclismo Classico, along with your full name, mailing address, phone number(s) and address. We cannot confirm reservations without a deposit. Final payment is due 90 days before departure payable by check, credit card, wire transfer or money order. All travelers must review and sign a terms and conditions statement and a waiver form. Ciclismo Classico info@ciclismoclassico.com 11