Toscana

A region dominated by hills, with a varied landscape of woods alternating with vineyards, rows of cypresses and olive groves, in which farm holiday centres offer superb local specialities rich in flavour, made from the natural products of the local land.

Tuscany is an ideal territory for lovers of activity holidays, and in particular this means cycling, as this truly versatile means of transport allows the magical atmospheres emanated by an extraordinary wealth of art and history to be fully savoured, in almost every town and village, together with the ancient traditions of the inhabitants.

Interesting routes suitable for all levels of cycling capacity can be found around Siena through the Chianti vineyards, or further south, at the foot of Mount Amiata near Montalcino, famous for its Brunello wine, and in the Maremma, a wild and desolate land that satisfies the yearning for adventure of extreme bikers. For visitors wishing to really get away from the bustle of modern city life, we can suggest the mountain bike trails of Massa Marittima, including the noted “Pesta” and “Gerfalco” tracks.

Mountain bike fans will also be attracted by the “Costa degli Etruschi” race held in late spring near Montescudaio, across the scrubland of Magona.
This Etruscan trail, a perfect destination for tourist cyclists thanks to its mild climate, can be enjoyed all year round. The roads seem made-to-measure for cyclists, and a variety of easy or more intensive routes can be planned.

Other cycling events held in Tuscany also include the five races of the Grand-Duchy of Tuscany Tour, and the Versilia-Viareggio race.

The Isle of Elba, the largest of the Tuscan Archipelago, can unmistakably be described as a paradise for cyclists, offering splendid natural panoramas and a particularly mild climate, even in winter. The island has roads and paths of varying difficulty, suitable not only for amateurs but also for experts. Two major races are held on Elba, one on roads and the other on mountain bike.