TUSCANY 2013 Luxury 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

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1 TUSCANY 2013 Luxury 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS Believe the hype: Tuscany is more beautiful than you imagined. Rolling hills to explore as you follow cypresslined winding roads. Sleepy hilltop villages hidden behind Medieval walls. Farmland with centuries-old vineyards. A cuisine that is as simple as it is delicious. Remarkable wines made with pride, following time-honored practices. The colors of a landscape that change with each season and the rhythm of a life tied to traditions. Tuscany has a magic that captures you and encourages you to slow down to enjoy the moment. Join us for a taste of this region: exceptional riding, beautiful landscape, delicious food, great wines and the locals charm come together for the trip of a lifetime. France Switzerland mediterranean sea Florence ITALY Florence Gaiole in Chianti Asciano Austria Rome adriatic sea Slovenia Croatia Enjoy the hospitality of the Mascheroni Stianti family as you enjoy lunch and wine tasting in the Villa of their estate at Castello di Volpaia. Savor Tuscan cuisine and discover local pecorino cheese and fresh bruschetta. Ride along quiet Tuscan roads lined by cypress trees. Discover the tradition of Chianti Classico from the locals. Learn how to prepare a Tuscan feast from an Italian chef. Ciao! Penny Gatward Tuscany Tr ip Expert San Quirico d'orcia TREK TRAVEL CYCLING VACATIONS OF A LIFETIME 613 Williamson St., Ste. 207 Madison, WI USA trektravel.com sales@trektravel.com TABLE OF CONTENTS: Welcome & Map v Itinerary v Trip Accommodations v Arriving & Departing v Before & After Recommendations v What s Included v Essential Travel Guide v

2 ITINERARY DAY 1: Basic Option: Pienza to San Quirico Approximately 12 miles with 1,200 feet of climbing Avid Option: Pienza to Montchiello to San Quirico Approximately 20 miles with 1300 feet of climbing Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hotel Albani (via Fiume 12, Florence, Italy, 50123) at 10:30 AM on the first day of the trip. After a 90 minute shuttle, you will arrive in Pienza, one of southern Tuscany s medieval gems and a UNESCO World Heritage site. From a private garden, you ll savor a lunch replete with Tuscan specialties and a view of the stunning Orcia Valley. After lunch, your Trek Travel guides will spend some time familiarizing you to your Trek bicycle for the week and will make sure that you have an excellent fit. A short ride will take you along winding roads to the tiny village of Bagno Vignoni, home to hot mineral baths dating to the Romans. After dipping your toes, relax at a local café, enjoying your first espresso or gelato of the trip. Afterward, ride to San Quirico and the Palazzo del Capitano, your home for the next two nights. This evening, you and your newfound friends will gather for drinks and a discussion of the week to come, before enjoying your first gourmet dinner together. Hotel Palazzo del Capitano DAY 2: Basic Option: San Quirico to Montalcino Approximately 25 miles with 2,600 feet of climbing Short Option: San Quirico to Sant Antimo Approximately 16 miles with 1,900 feet of climbing Avid Option: San Quirico to Montalcino Loop Approximately 35 miles with 3,700 feet of climbing This morning s route lifts you high above the Val d Orcia, a vista dotted with rolling hills blanketed with vines and cypress. Your first stop is the 12th century Romanesque abbey, Abbazia di Sant Antimo. Perhaps you ll time it so that you will hear the monks sing Gregorian chants magical! Continue on to the walled village of Montalcino, whose 14th century fortress and steep cobblestone streets dominate the serene countryside. Here you ll discover the delights of Brunello wine, one of the finest Italian varietals. Enjoy lunch at your leisure at one of Montalcino s many trattoria. Cycle along a winding road back to San Quirico, or reward yourself with a shuttle to explore the luxurious new spa that your hotel has to offer. The evening is yours to explore town and to enjoy dinner on your own. Personal Cycling Gear: On your trip Trek Travel provides a helmet, flat or caged pedals & a Bontrager saddle. Beyond what is provided on your trip, you are welcome to bring your own gear: a helmet, seat, pedals, shoes, etc. Just label and pack it in a separate, easily accessible bag. Remember also to bring spare cleats for your clipless pedals, as replacements during your trip are difficult to find. Hotel Palazzo del Capitano

3 ITINERARY DAY 3: Basic Option: San Quirico to Montisi to Casabianca Approximately 40 miles with 2,400 feet of climbing Short Option: San Quirico to Montisi Approximately 20 miles with 1,900 feet of climbing Today you ll head north into one of Italy s most dramatic regions, the Crete Senesi. You ll follow winding ribbons of road from southern Tuscany s gently undulating terrain into the Senesi hills, distinguished by the dramatic colors of the soil and interspersed with some of the most stunning views in Tuscany. Along the way, visit Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a 12th century Benedictine abbey. Soak up its austere beauty before venturing on toward the town of Montisi. Here you will relax in the serene garden while enjoying a delicious gourmet lunch prepared by a local chef and our friend, Roberto. Return to your bike and ride along cypress-lined ridges to this afternoon s destination, Hotel Casabianca, set in lush farmland and olive groves. Dinner is on Trek Travel tonight and it is up to you to decide who you want to share it with and when! Enjoy. Hotel Borgo Casabianca DAY 4: Basic Option: Casabianca to Castelnuovo Berardanga to Spaltenna Approximately 40 miles with 2,400 feet of climbing Short Option: Casabianca to Castelnuovo Berardanga Approximately 20 miles with 1,600 feet of climbing Avid Option: Badia a Coltibuono Add-On Approximately 45 miles with 2,700 feet of climbing Today you venture into the land of a Tuscan treasure Chianti Classico. A gentle descent takes you into the hamlet of Asciano. Our route then opens up to panoramic views of rolling hills dotted with stone farmhouses, Crete Senesi formations, and nearby Siena. Your lunch destination is a family-owned winery just outside the walls of Castelnuovo Berardanga. Enjoy a wine and olive oil tasting while indulging in a picnic of Tuscan delights prosciutto, melon, formaggi tipici, and biscotti. The afternoon is yours: hop back on your bike for a ride to the fortress Castello di Brolio, owned by the Ricasoli family since Visit the castle gardens, have a taste of their best vintages at the estate s wine shop or opt to shuttle to Spaltenna to relax by the pool. This evening, you are off to a private cooking class at a local winery and olive oil producing farm, where you ll create your own Tuscan feast under the guidance of an Italian master of the kitchen. Rider Level Rider Type: 3 Terrain: Hilly Average Daily Distance: 35 miles Average: Daily Climbing: 2,500 feet Hotel Castello di Spaltenna

4 ITINERARY DAY 5: Basic Option: Gaiole to Volpaia Loop Approximately 30 miles with 3,500 feet of climbing Short Option: Gaiole to Volpaia Approximately 20 miles Avid Option: Gaiole to Volpaia Loop with Lucarelli Option Approximately 45 miles with 5,300 feet of climbing Today s ride traverses the rich vineyards, forested hills, and olive groves of the 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. You ll have time to explore this vibrant village, filled with bustling shops and galleries the perfect place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs. Your midday destination is Castello di Volpaia, where the Mascheroni Stianti family welcomes you for a wine-paired lunch in their villa. Afterward, we invite you to enjoy an exclusive visit of the castle s cellars and olive oil press. From here, continue on to the hotel to relax by the pool, or jump back on your bike to explore more of the beautiful Tuscan landscape. This evening, a gourmet dinner awaits you at Castello di Spaltenna. Soak in the magical atmosphere of this retreat in the Chianti hills and raise your glass to toast a week of wonders in Tuscany. Hotel Castello di Spaltenna DAY 6: Basic Option: Spaltenna to Badia Loop Approximately 15 miles with 1,800 feet of climbing Though this morning s ride is short, it s a great last spin through the classic Tuscan countryside. If you d rather, simpy linger over a hot cappuccino and enjoy a leisurely morning, soaking in the gorgeous views from the breakfast patio. Before you bid your farewells, stroll through the grounds of the hotel one last time and savor the picturesque, peaceful landscape of the Chianti countryside. You ll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Castello di Spaltenna, Gaiole in Chianti. You ll depart by private shuttle for Hotel Palazzo Vecchio, Florence, arriving close to 12:30 PM. The hotel is a 5 minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station where trains connect to many European cities. Please do not reserve a seat prior to 2:00 PM. The Amerigo Vespucci airport in Florence (FLR) is only 3 miles from the city. You can reach it by train, taxi, or shuttle bus; please do not schedule a flight prior to 4:00 PM. Visit for train information. Thank Your Guides, By Tipping: Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. Industry standard is 5-10% of the trip price which will be divided by your guide team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.

5 ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS LODGING In every region we travel, we uncover the area s best, and most delightful accommodations. On our Tuscany trip, you will stay in a historic palazzo in charming San Quirico, an 18th century manor house surrounded by rolling hills, and a former castle of a medieval hamlet high above Gaiole. Palazzo del Capitano San Quirico d Orcia, Italy A historic palazzo in the heart of charming San Quirico, Palazzo del Capitano boasts newly renovated rooms, an indulgent spa, tranquil gardens and an ideal location. Its mix of modern luxury and rich history will enchant you. via Poliziano Borgo Casabianca Asciano, Italy Set deep in the hills of Tuscany, this collection of 18th century buildings was once a farming complex and is now elegantly restored into a refined and luxurious hotel, far from the bustle of modern life. Stroll the bucolic grounds and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside from the pool and grounds. Localita Casa Bianca Castello di Spaltenna Gaiole in Chianti, Italy This medieval hamlet in the heart of Chianti, a sub-region of Tuscany, complete with castle and church, has been transformed into an elegant hotel surrounded by vineyards and woods. The hotel weaves modern luxuries with its rich history, offering uniquely decorated rooms, fine dining, a full wine cellar, outdoor and indoor pools and impeccable service. Trip Changes: Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience. via Spaltenna, DINING Trek Travel scopes out unique and delicious dining locations, and we usually leave at least one meal for you to explore on your own. If you have any special dietary preferences, be sure that you have informed your Trek Travel Trip Consultant before you leave for your trip. We will do our best to accommodate your dietary requests. On our Tuscany trip, the cuisine is characterized by fresh, seasonal ingredients, prepared in a simple style. Lunches provide bountiful selections of local specialties. Dinners range from local trattoria fare featuring handmade pasta to fine dining, highlighting the best of the season s offerings. One evening, you ll be put to work rolling your own pasta! On other occasions, you ll be free to dine on your own, so that you can discover your own personal favorites.

6 ARRIVING & DEPARTING HOW TO GET THERE Flights We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Florence s Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR). The Florence airport is about 3 miles from the town center. You can take a taxi (~20 euros) directly to the hotel, or a bus which departs hourly. 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 1-1/2 hours and costs between euros one way per person. In Florence, taxis are available to take you to your hotel. Taxi service is available from Rome Fiumicino Airport to central Rome for ~50 euros. MEETING TIME AND LOCATION Hotel Albani Florence, Italy Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hotel Albani (via Fiume 12, Florence, Italy, 50123) at 10:30 AM on the first day of the trip. You ll then shuttle 90 minutes to our lunch spot for a taste of Tuscan cuisine. Have your first day s cycling clothes and riding gear easily accessible, separate from your luggage. After lunch, your guides will do a bike fitting to ensure your comfort on your Trek Madone this week, before you take your first spin through the countryside. Enjoy our Travel Agent Services! For a nominal fee, our dedicated Travel Agent can reserve air travel, hotels, rental cars, train tickets and additional tours and sightseeing before or after your trip. Call Trek Travel at and choose option #2 to speak with our in house Travel Agent. If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Palazzo del Capitano ( ), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi to the first night s hotel in San Quirico d Orcia, Palazzo del Capitano, for approximately. 200 euros. The trip takes over an hour from the center of Florence. DEPARTING TIME AND LOCATION Hotel Palazzo Vecchio Florence, Italy You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Castello di Spaltenna, Gaiole in Chianti. You ll depart by private shuttle for Hotel Palazzo Vecchio, Florence, arriving close to 12:30 PM. The hotel is a 5 minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station where trains connect to many European cities. Please do not reserve a seat prior to 2:00 PM. The Amerigo Vespucci airport in Florence (FLR) is only 3 miles from the city. You can reach it by train, taxi, or shuttle bus; please do not schedule a flight prior to 4:00 PM. Visit for train information.

7 BEFORE & AFTER FLORENCE Florence is the majestic heart of Renaissance art and intellect. Several days can be spent wandering the streets in the shadow of Brunelleschi s Duomo and strolling beside the Arno. Along with the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi gallery, a pillar of the Renaissance and Medici eras, merits a visit. Michelangeo s David in the Galleria dell Arte is not to be missed. Keep in mind while exploring Florence that opening hours vary and are quite often inconsistent. Different museums are open on different days and lines can be very long. It s worthwhile to pay a few extra euros and pre-book your tickets this will enable you to bypass long lines of visitors at the entrances. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel: Hotel Albani via Fiume, Firenze ~$200 Ideally situated in the center of the city, Hotel Albani is a stately and impeccably restored early 20th century townhouse. A serene and tranquil atmosphere completes the setting perfect for those wishing to find an exclusive hideaway within easy walking distance of Santa Maria Novella train station. 101 rooms. Residenza del Moro via del Moro, Firenze com ~$280 Escape the bustle of the city in this private hideaway complete with rooftop garden in the heart of Florence. Rooms in this 16th century palazzo are sumptuously furnished, and stunning centuriesold frescoes juxtaposed with magnificent modern art adorn the walls and ceilings. The ambiance is private, luxurious, and serene. Last minute question? Your guides will be available 24 hours before the start of your trip. You ll receive their mobile numbers in an one week before the trip start date. In the event you don t receive this , please contact our sales team: sales@trektravel.com or Boscolo Astoria Hotel via del Giglio, Firenze com ~$200 A few steps from the Santa Maria Novella train station and the church of the same name, the hotel is housed in historic buildings formerly occupied by Florentine nobility. From this central location, it s simple to reach all the sights.

8 BEFORE & AFTER ROME Rome is a powerhouse of stunning architecture and ancient history, beautifully told through its ruins and buildings. It seems that every street you walk down provides another unexpected glimpse of ancient times, yet modern bustle and energy abounds as well. The Coliseum, the Forum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon are some of the must-see attractions. Be sure to linger on the Spanish Steps one afternoon and take advantage of great shopping and fantastic cuisine. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel: Hotel Barocco via della Purificazione, Roma com ~$285 This 37-room hotel is tucked away in central Piazza Barberini. It boasts a refined, simple style with all of the comforts and amenities needed for a relaxing Roman getaway. Hotel Capo d Africa via Capo d Africa, Roma www. HotelCapodAfrica.com ~$425 Located in the heart of Imperial Rome, between the Forum and the Domus Aurea, the Hotel Capo d Africa boasts contemporary decor within a beautiful, early 19th century building. 64 rooms. Mecenate Palace via C. Alberto, Roma com ~$$260 In front of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, this hotel is within walking distance of most of the important monuments and shopping areas found in Rome. Guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the hotel s roof garden. 62 rooms. Thank Your Guides, By Tipping: Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. Industry standard is 5-10% of the trip price which will be divided by your guide team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.

9 WHAT S INCLUDED INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE Dining & Lodging Unique accommodations during the Tuscany trip Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, social hour on some evenings, 4 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for each day s ride Support Dedicated Trip Consultants to answer all of your questions and aid you in choosing a vacation that suits you sent to you one week prior to your trip with guide contact details, meet time & location and any final information The knowledge, support and camaraderie of experienced guides Daily route support, detailed route guide, highlighted map, van support All transportation and luggage transfers during the trip Gear The use of a Trek Domane 5.9 carbon road bike, or Trek Domane 5.9 Women s Specific Design carbon road bike (limited selection), or Trek 7.6 FX hybrid bike (visit com/ridethebest.php for more details) Complimentary Trek Travel merchandise Bike computer, a map case, and stocked seat pack for use during your trip Two Trek Travel water bottles for you to keep Choice of multiple stem lengths, seat posts and saddles for a custom fit The Best Bikes, Period: Bike vacations are more fun when bikes ride and fit well. With the best in the industry and our knowledgeable and well trained guides our bikes always fit and ride smoothly. Enjoy $300 off a select Trek bike after you travel with us. Activities Gratuities for all scheduled restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip. Tasting of Brunello wines in Montalcino Create a culinary masterpiece at a private cooking school Visit to Castello di Volpaia and lunch in the winery owners Villa NOT INCLUDED Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations Lodging before and after the trip Personal items purchased during the trip Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure. Gratuities for your Trek Travel Guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership.industry standard is for each individual guest to tip the guide team 5-10% of the trip price.

10 ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE WHAT S NEXT? If you are ready to book call at or fill out on our online booking form. If you already booked, there is a lot of great information below regarding getting ready for your trip and things like upgrade bikes, trip insurance and housekeeping items that you ll want to ensure are completed on time. THE ESSENTIAL LINKS UPGRADES Upgrade to the Trek Madone road bike, electric assist bikes, carbon wheels and Garmins. TRIP INSURANCE Protecting your trip investment from unforeseen circumstances that might affect your trip. IN HOUSE TRAVEL AGENT Allow us to arrange your pre and post trip hotels, air travel, trains and other activities for a nominal fee. TRAINING Our partner, Vision Quest Training, offers custom training programs to prepare any rider for their trip. RIDER LEVEL We have trips for every type of rider. Find the best fit with our rider type explained section. CONNECTIONS CLUB Our Connections Club rewards repeat guests with trip discounts, complimentary upgrades and more! CYCLING GEAR TO PACK Use this comprehensive packing list to make sure you bring just what you need for on and off the bike. OFF THE BIKE APPAREL With your bike fashion covered, here are suggestions for off the bike apparel for your trip. FAQS Read a lot of great information about your bike tour in our easy to navigate FAQ section. REFERRAL REWARDS Bring a friend on your Trek Travel cycling vacation and earn a $200 referral bonus each time! CANCELLATION POLICY Be informed rather than surprised. Trip cancellation policies differ so take a moment to look yours over. Cancellation Policy: If you must cancel your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, there is a cancellation fee of $100; between days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 25% of the original trip price; between days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 50% of the original trip price; there is no refund for cancelling a trip less than 30 days prior to departure. If you choose to change your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, you may do so with no fee. From days, there will be a $1,000 administrative fee. If you choose to change your trip within 60 days of the original trip start, the cancellation policy outlined above will apply. Please be aware that it is only possible to move to another trip within one year of the original trip departure date.