TUSCANY 2013 Explorer 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 changes 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. Ride along quiet roads lined with cypress trees in the beautiful Tuscan landscape. Savor Tuscan cuisine and discover local pecorino cheese and fresh bruschetta. Discover the tradition of Chianti Classico. Walk through the village of Volterra and discover its ancient Etruscan and Roman roots. Meet the locals and learn how to live la dolce vita. Ciao! Penny Gatward Tuscany Tr ip Expert TREK TRAVEL CYCLING VACATIONS OF A LIFETIME 613 Williamson St., Ste. 207 Madison, WI 53703 USA 866.464.8735 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
ITINERARY DAY 1: Basic Option: Castellina in Chianti to La Piazza Loop Ride Approximately 16 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hotel Palazzo Vecchio (via Cennini 4, 50123, Florence, Italy) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. After a one-hour shuttle, you and your new traveling companions arrive at our starting location of your first day s ride, a local pizzeria. After a delicious lunch and a short round of introductions, your Trek Travel guides will discuss the rules of bike safety and specific cycling tips for riding in Italy. They will spend some time familiarizing you with the Trek bicycle you ll be riding and will ensure that you have an excellent fit. Then you re off to discover the magic of Tuscany. A rolling, scenic loop ride will take you to Castellina in Chianti, an ancient medieval city where you ll spend the next three nights in your palace hotel. Explore the cobblestone streets, medieval walkways, and defensive architecture of this fascinating town. This evening, you and your newfound friends will gather for an Italian aperitif and a discussion of the week to come before enjoying your first dinner together at a local restaurant. Hotel Palazzo Squarcialupi www.palazzosquarcialupi.com DAY 2: Basic Option: Castellina to Radda in Chianti Return Approximately 40 miles with 2,000 feet of climbing Short Option: Castellina to Radda in Chianti Approximately 30 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing Avid Option: Castellina to Radda in Chianti with San Donato Loop Approximately 50 miles with 4,200 feet of climbing This morning, the route takes you high above the vineyards, where the vista is broken only by rolling hills blanketed with vines and cypress. Cycle along a ridge providing 360-degree views of the Tuscan countryside. Relish a rewarding descent and cruise through tiny medieval hamlets into the shadow of the grand Castello di Brolio. For lunch, enjoy an array of fresh Tuscan specialties at a bar that is a favorite among locals in Radda in Chianti. Following lunch, continue your ride to the tiny Tuscan village of Lucarelli and mingle with the locals over a mid-afternoon espresso - or maintain your momentum and pedal up the hills, surrounded by vineyards. Or shuttle back to the hotel, and perhaps enjoy the Palazzo s complete spa amenities. This evening is yours to discover on your own: enjoy a family-style dinner in town on the piazza, or perhaps something a little more romantic, drinking in the picturesque views. 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 Squarcialupi www.palazzosquarcialupi.com
ITINERARY DAY 3: Basic Option: Castellina to Monteriggioni Approximately 30 miles with 2,000 feet of climbing Short Option: Castellina to Strove Approximately 25 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing Avid Option: Castellina to Monteriggioni Loop Approximately 42 miles with 3,300 feet of climbing Today you ll descend into the valley, enjoying stunning views of Siena s towers amid the vine-covered hills along the way. Before long, sights of vines and olive trees give way to chestnut trees and shade. You seem to leave the 21st century behind, as all that surrounds you on this quiet road are ancient stone walls, wildflowers, and the scent of the forest. Climb back into the sun, pausing to take in the sight of your midday destination, the hilltop walled town of Monteriggioni, complete with 14 dramatic towers. Choose among the many al fresco options lining the piazza and enjoy lunch on your own today, before exploring this enchanting city. Shuttle back to the hotel from here, or get back on your bike and continue your ride through some of the most important wine-growing districts in Chianti. This evening, head out with your fellow travelers for a private wine and olive oil tasting and then on to enjoy dinner at a local trattoria filled with Tuscan ambience. Hotel Palazzo Squarcialupi www.palazzosquarcialupi.com DAY 4: Basic Option: Castellina to Casole d Elsa Approximately 35 miles with 2,200 feet of climbing Short Option: Castellina to Casole d Elsa Approximately 20 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing Avid Option: Castellina to Casole d Elsa to Volterra Approximately 50 miles with 3,800 feet of climbing Today you ride into the breathtaking Elsa Valley, where the route along quiet roads offers memorable vistas of golden hills splashed with the silver grey of olive trees, highlighted by dark green cypress trees. After your beautiful morning ride, you ll stop in Casole d Elsa to explore its medieval streets in search of a great lunch. The village, an ancient Etruscan settlement, is perched on a ridge, offering magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Stroll the main square and be sure to visit La Rocca, likely the most beautiful town hall in Italy! When you re ready, continue on your bike to challenge rolling hills and the final climb up to Volterra, whose Etruscan roots and Roman influences are visible in the steep cobblestone streets that run through the town. Pedal all the way in, or shuttle up the hill to the hotel for an afternoon dip in the outdoor swimming pool. The group will meet this evening for a historical walking tour of town before you enjoy dinner at your leisure at one of Volterra s many lovely trattoria. Rider Level: Rider Type: 3 Terrain hilly Average: Daily Distance: 40 miles Average: Daily Climbing 2,100 feet Hotel Park Hotel Le Fonti www.parkhotellefonti.com
ITINERARY DAY 5: Basic Option: Volterra to Montaione Loop with Volterra Shuttle Approximately 45 miles with 3,000 feet of climbing Short Option: Volterra to Montaione Approximately 30 miles with 1,900 feet of climbing Avid Option: Volterra to Montaione Loop Approximately 49 miles with 3,600 feet of climbing This morning, you ll begin with a descent from the hilltop town and meander through bucolic countryside on quiet back roads. Your first stop of the day? The ancient village of Montaione. Just outside town, you will stop at Villa di Filicaja for a picnic lunch in Trek Travel style. Enjoy a tasting of our good friend Antonio s locally produced wine and olive oil, before hopping back on your bike to explore more of the countryside s forests and farms. Or, spend time with your host and learn more about how he came to run Italy s largest horse rescue shelter, before shuttling back to the hotel to enjoy some time to relax by the pool or further explore Volterra. This evening, you will meet your traveling companions by the hotel pool for an aperitif with a view over the Tuscan countryside. Dinner will be an intimate and exclusive affair. Raise your glass to a great week of riding, fellowship, and good food! Hotel Park Hotel Le Fonti www.parkhotellefonti.com DAY 6: Basic Option: Volterra Loop Approximately 15 miles with 1,400 feet of climbing This morning s ride is a stunning early morning spin through the classic Tuscan countryside. Or, if you d rather, linger over a hot cappuccino and enjoy a leisurely morning. You ll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Park Hotel Le Fonti. You ll depart by private shuttle for Hotel Palazzo Vecchio, Florence arriving close to 12:30 PM. The hotel is a 5 minute walk from 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 www.trenitalia.com 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.
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 15th century former noble residence in the heart of tiny Castellina in Chianti and a gracious hotel nestled in a park with outstanding views of the countryside. Palazzo Squarcialupi Castellina in Chianti, Italy Located in the heart of Castellina in Chianti, a medieval city and one of central Tuscany s most charming villages. The hotel, a 14th century palace, boasts a remarkable view of the stunning Chianti hillsides and comfortable rooms that highlight the hotel s original structure. via Ferruccio, 26 +39 0577 741186 www.palazzosquarcialupi.com Park Hotel Le Fonti Volterra, Italy Recently renovated, the Park Hotel Le Fonti is designed with a nod to Tuscan traditions, while still offering all the comforts of a top modern hotel. The views of the surrounding hills from the swimming pool and terrace are unbeatable! via Di Fontecorrenti 5 +39 0588 85219 www.parkhotellefonti.com DINING Trip Changes: Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience. Trek Travel scopes out unique and delicious dining locations, and we usually leave at least one meal for you to explore on your own. If you have any special dietary preferences, be sure that you have informed your Trek Travel Trip Consultant before you leave for your trip. We will do our best to accommodate your dietary requests. On our Tuscany trip, the cuisine is characterized by fresh, seasonal ingredients, prepared in a simple style. Lunch provides bountiful selections of local goodies. Dinners range from local trattoria fare featuring hand-made pasta to fine dining, highlighting the best of the season s offerings. On other occasions, you ll be free to dine on your own, so that you can discover your own personal favorites.
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 44-62 euros one way per person. In Florence, taxis are available to take you to your hotel. Taxi service is available from Rome Fiumicino Airport to central Rome for ~50 euros. MEETING TIME AND LOCATION Hotel Palazzo Vecchio Florence, Italy Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Hotel Palazzo Vecchio (via Cennini 4, 50123, Florence, Italy) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You ll then shuttle one hour 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 866 464 8735 and choose option #2 to speak with our in house Travel Agent. If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Palazzo Squarcialupi (+39 0577 741186), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi to Palazzo Squarcialupi, the first night s hotel in Castellina in Chianti, for approximately 150 euros. DEPARTING TIME AND LOCATION Hotel Palazzo Vecchio Florence, Italy You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Park Hotel Le Fonti. You ll depart by private shuttle for Hotel Palazzo Vecchio, Florence arriving close to 12:30 PM. The hotel is a 5 minute walk from 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 www.trenitalia.com for train information.
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 Palazzo Vecchio via Cennini 4, 50123 Firenze 39 055 212182 www.hotelpalazzovecchio.it ~$$130 This charming 3-star hotel boasts an ideal location in the heart of the historic center of the city, just steps away from Santa Maria Novella train station. Built in the early 20th century and recently renovated to provide modern amenities, the Palazzo Vecchio is the perfect choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient option. Hotel il Guelfo Bianco via Cavour 29 +39 055 288 330 www.ilguelfobianco.it ~$$190 This patrician home of the 16th century is close to the old market in the heart of downtown Florence, just a short walk to the Cathedral and principal museums. This 3-star hotel re-opened its doors to guests after having undergone a complete restoration. The Renaissance architecture and the refined furnishings reflect the Florentine character. Last minute question? Your guides will be available 24 hours before the start of your trip. You ll receive their mobile numbers in an e-mail one week before the trip start date. In the event you don t receive this email, please contact our sales team: sales@trektravel.com or 866.464.8735. Hotel Albani via Fiume, 12 50123 Firenze +39 055 26030 www.hotelalbani.it ~$200 Hotel Albani is a stately and impeccably restored early 20th century townhouse. A serene atmosphere completes the setting perfect for those wishing to find an exclusive hideaway within walking distance of Santa Maria Novella train station.
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, 4 00187 Roma +39 06 487 2001 www.hotelbarocco. com ~$$285 This 37-room hotel is tucked away on central Piazza Barberini. It boasts a refined, simple style with all of the comforts and amenities needed for a relaxing Roman getaway. Hotel Capo d Africa via Capo d Africa, 54 00184 Roma +39 06 772801 www. HotelCapodAfrica.com ~$$350 Located in the heart of Imperial Rome, between the Forum and the Domus Aurea, the Hotel Capo d Africa boasts contemporary decor within a beautiful, early 19th century building. Mecenate Palace via C. Alberto, 3 00185 Roma +39 06 44702024 www.mecenatepalace. 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. 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.
WHAT S INCLUDED INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE Dining & Lodging Unique accommodations during the Tuscany trip Daily breakfast, 1 lunch, social hour on some evenings, 3 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for each day s ride Support Dedicated Trip Consultants to answer all of your questions and aid you in choosing a vacation that suits you Email sent to you one week prior to your trip with guide contact details, meet time & location and any final information The knowledge, support and camaraderie of experienced guides Daily route support, detailed route guide, highlighted map, van support All transportation and luggage transfers during the trip Gear The use of a Trek Domane 5.9 carbon road bike, or Trek Domane 5.9 Women s Specific Design carbon road bike (limited selection), or Trek 7.6 FX hybrid bike (visit www.trektravel. com/ridethebest.php for more details) Complimentary Trek Travel merchandise Bike computer, a map case, and stocked seat pack for use during your trip Two Trek Travel water bottles for you to keep Choice of multiple stem lengths, seat posts and saddles for a custom fit The Best Bikes, Period: Bike vacations are more fun when bikes ride and fit well. With the best in the industry and our knowledgeable and well trained guides our bikes always fit and ride smoothly. Enjoy $300 off a select Trek bike after you travel with us. Activities Gratuities for all scheduled restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip. Private wine and olive oil tasting Private walking tour of Volterra NOT INCLUDED Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations Lodging before and after the trip Personal items purchased during the trip Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure. Gratuities for your Trek Travel Guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership.industry standard is for each individual guest to tip the guide team 5-10% of the trip price.
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE WHAT S NEXT? If you are ready to book call at 866-464-8735 or fill out on our online booking form. If you already booked, there is a lot of great information below regarding getting ready for your trip and things like upgrade bikes, trip insurance and housekeeping items that you ll want to ensure are completed on time. THE ESSENTIAL LINKS UPGRADES 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 61 90 days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 25% of the original trip price; between 31 60 days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 50% of the original trip price; there is no refund for cancelling a trip less than 30 days prior to departure. If you choose to change your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, you may do so with no fee. From 61 90 days, there will be a $1,000 administrative fee. If you choose to change your trip within 60 days of the original trip start, the cancellation policy outlined above will apply. Please be aware that it is only possible to move to another trip within one year of the original trip departure date.