Italy 'Classico' Tour

Description

An 'Classic' Italian Adventure 

Tour Summary

You’ll be exploring 800 miles and ascending 50,000ft on this incredible Italian 'Classico' tour. We start in the ancient city of Pisa in Tuscany, cycling south along the west coast with its amazing beaches into the Lazio region. 

Through Tuscany you will find roads lined with iconic evergreen cypress, rolling hills of wheat and hectares of vines. Medieval hilltop villages, like Bolgheri, invite you up to enjoy the stunning views. Before browsing cobbled streets where trattorias vie with gelaterias to satisfy your appetite and shops sell Tuscan olive oil, truffles, Cantuccini biscotti and lots of wine.

We then enter Campania and continue east across the stunning Apennnine Mountains through Basilicata you'll experience the different types of terrain, from challenging climbs to rolling hills and flat river roads. However quiet inland roads provide a safe environment for you to immerse in the diversity of the history, culture and traditions Italy has to offer incuding the incredible UNESCO world heritage site of Matera shown below.

Finally we arrive in Puglia, where via Lecce we meander on stunning coastal roads to our end point the very heel of Italy in Santa Maria di Leuca. Here you can reflect on having dined and slept in some charming local hotels and having experienced the very best of this part of the country has to offer.

 Overview of Route

Itinerary

Arrival Day: Tuesday > Pisa

When you arrive in Pisa, make sure you have time to take a stroll around in this famous city of art. Do not miss the Piazza dei Miracoli where you'll admire the well-known leaning Tower and all the other monuments. Get pleasantly lost in the ancient and lively streets of the city centre, just to have a first experience of the Italian's life style.

We'll overnight in a hotel in Pisa.

We ask that people try to arrive at the Hotel by 6pm latest on Arrival day. This is because at 6.30pm we normally have a tour briefing session at which important information relating to safety and general advice on how to survive 13 days in the saddle is provided.

After this we have a group evening meal at 7.30pm so you can socialize and meet your fellow riders.

Day 1: Casciana to Castagneto

48 miles | 77km | 3620 ft | 1104 m

 After breakfast we'll have a early morning group transfer to Casciana Terme.

Casciana Terme is one of Tuscany's many thermal spa towns. The Romans knew of the hot springs here and the Pisans built a minor spa here as early as 1311. It wasn't until the 17th century when the Tuscan aristocracy moved from the cities to the countryside in large numbers, however, that the present spa developed.

From here we'll start our cycling adventure leaving the rich farm villages of the Pisan hills and head south to ride along a scenic ridge. Small roads and sweeping views across to the sea lead us gradually to the Maremma region of Italy, famous for its "cowboys" and small Medieval towns.

The last part of our ride is along the coastal pinewoods to move then to the region now rich in olive oil and wine production. We pedal through the tiny fortress town of Bolgheri, famous for its red wines, including the world famous "Sassicaia."

Day 2: Castagneto to Grosseto

64 miles | 102km | 4425 ft | 1350m

We have another scenic ride as get deeper in the Maremma region of Italy: this entire region underwent agricultural reclamation from the late 19th century through Mussolini's rule in the early-mid 20th century. Swamps were drained and roads and other infrastructure built, and now it's a land of cowboys and pastures. We'll end today in the capital town of Maremma, the historic coastal town of Grosseto where we will spend the night.

Day 3: Grosseto to Tuscania

73 miles | 117km | 5137ft | 1566m 

Today's bike ride will take you through the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Maremma region, where the gentle breeze carries the scent of olive groves, cypress trees and the wines of Magliano in Toscana.

Continuing your adventure, ride through the tranquil countryside towards the quaint hamlet of Capalbio, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Pause to admire the breathtaking scenery before pedaling onwards to the picturesque town of Canino, known for its olive oil production and stunning vistas.

Finally, conclude your bike ride in the enchanting town of Tuscania, where ancient Etruscan ruins mingle with medieval architecture. Explore its cobblestone streets and historic sites and feel like you went back in time.

Day 4: Tuscania to Fiano Romano

58 miles | 94km | 4524ft | 1379m

After an evening sampling the best Tuscany offers, today we’ll cycle to Viterbo, wandering its preserved medieval streets adorned with ancient palaces, fountains, and churches. Pedal through the lush landscapes of the Regional Park of Lago di Vico, a tranquil volcanic lake surrounded by beech and chestnut forests.

Continue to Civita Castellana, an ancient hamlet famous for its vibrant ceramic production, where Forte Sangallo offers panoramic views and a peek into Renaissance history with its art and archaeological museum. Conclude in Fiano Romano, with its impressive Castello Orsini and the archaeological site of Villa dei Volusii, revealing traces of Roman noble life. Today’s tour blends historical exploration and natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

Day 5: Fiano Romano to Fiuggi

65 miles | 105km | 6317ft | 2000m

From Fiano Romano you will pedal your way through rolling hills and verdant vineyards, taking in the rustic beauty of the Roman countryside. As you journey onwards, traverse the undulating landscapes towards the enchanting town of Fiuggi, nestled amidst the lush foothills of the Apennine Mountains.

Day 6: Fuggi to Cassino

70 miles | 113km | 4306ft | 1312m

Enjoy today's bike ride through the scenic landscapes of central Italy, starting from Fiuggi and taking in the panoramic views of the Apennine foothills surrounding you. Pedal your way through the historic town of Ferentino, with its ancient Roman ruins and medieval charm. Pause to explore its cobblestone streets and impressive architecture, before continuing your adventure through the rolling hills of the countryside.

As you ride towards Frosinone, revel in the beauty of the lush valleys and vineyards that dot the landscape. Continuing onwards, traverse the picturesque countryside towards Roccasecca, a charming hilltop town steeped in medieval history.

Finally, conclude your bike ride in the historic town of Cassino, nestled in the shadow of the majestic Montecassino Abbey. Explore its winding alleys and historic sites, reflecting on the beauty and tranquility of the Italian countryside you've experienced along the way.

Day 7: Cassino to Benevento

78 miles | 125km | 4357ft | 1328m

Meander through the lush valleys and rolling hills, passing quaint villages and ancient ruins along the way. Take in the sights and sounds of rural life as you cycle through the picturesque countryside, with the rugged peaks of the Apennine Mountains looming in the distance. As you journey towards Benevento, soak in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun and the fragrance of citrus orchards that line your path.

Arriving in Benevento, be greeted by the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Explore its charming streets and ancient landmarks, such as the majestic Arch of Trajan and the impressive Rocca dei Rettori. Reflect on the beauty and serenity of your bike ride through southern Italy, as you immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Benevento.

Day 8: Benevento to Bisaccia

45 miles | 116km | 4315ft | 1529m 

As you pedal away from the bustling streets of Benevento, you'll soon find yourself immersed in the tranquil beauty of the Campanian countryside. Meander along winding country roads, bordered by lush vineyards and ancient olive groves. Admire the breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and picturesque valleys, with the sun casting a golden glow over the landscape. As you pedal onward towards Bisaccia you will pass through charming villages where time seems to stand still, and locals offer warm greetings as you pass by. Arriving in Bisaccia, be greeted by the town's rustic charm and rich heritage.

Day 9: Bisaccia to Venosa

50 miles | 80km | 2881ft | 870m

As you journey towards Venosa, let the rhythm of the ride carry you through fields of sunflowers and vineyards. Pause to admire ancient ruins and medieval castles that dot the landscape, each one telling a story of centuries past. Arriving in Venosa, be captivated by the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Explore its historic landmarks, including the majestic Castello Aragonese and the ancient Roman ruins of Venusia.

Day 10: Venosa to Matera

58 miles | 90km | 2813ft | 900m

Today you will pedal through a breathtaking landscape made of deep ravines and limestone cliffs which create a dramatic backdrop. Pause to marvel at the beauty of the Gravina River as it winds its way through the rugged terrain, carving out stunning gorges along the way.

Arriving in Matera, you will be impressed by the town's ancient charm and unique architecture. Explore its labyrinthine streets and cave dwellings, which have been inhabited for thousands of years and are now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 11: Matera to Martina Franca

69 miles | 100km | 1867ft | 800m

Start cycling and enjoy this ride through olive groves and vineyards on the way to the “Valle d’Itria” which is the heart of Puglia’s trulli region. Trulli are conical shaped dwellings unique to this part of Italy. Originally used as storage sheds for farmers, they quickly became popular as temporary shelters.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Gioia del Colle, with its medieval castle standing sentinel over the surrounding countryside. Continue pedaling onwards towards Alberobello, a Unesco city since 1996, where whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets transport you to another era. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of its historic centre, where Baroque architecture and ancient traditions produce an interesting mixture.

Day 12: Martin Franca to Lecce 

69 miles | 115km | 1867ft | 555m

Follow the winding roads that lead through the rugged terrain of southern Italy, where each bend reveals a new panorama of breathtaking splendor before reaching our final destination, arguably Puglia’s most beautiful city – Lecce. Also known as the baroque Florence of Southern Italy, Lecce’s pink sandstone buildings and pedestrian city centre make for an inviting afternoon of exploration. 

Day 13: Lecce to Santa Maria di Leuca

60 miles | 96km | 2847ft | 891m

Our route will take us from the inland to the coast and then going through a nature reserve. We'll continue south to Otranto, historically one of the most important trading cities in Puglia and from here it is along the jagged coast, dotted with karstic caves and ancient defense towers or castles. Before arriving in the small town of Leuca, you can stop by the land’s end and the sanctuary Santa Maria di Leuca. Enjoy the seafront promenade as a reward for accomplishing this Coast to Coast Adventure across Italy.

On the final day we finish cycling on Monday around 3pm. After toasting your successful traversing of Italy we'll head to our nearby beach Hotel where you can relax before we will have a final celebratory meal in the evening. 

Departure Day: Tuesday > Brindisi / Bari 

A coach will transfer you from our Hotel after breakfast to one of two airports:

1. Brindisi (1hr 30min transfer) - No direct flights but has many connecting options from hubs in Europe back to the UK  

2. Bari (2hr 30min transfer) - Has direct flights to Stansted or London Gatwick along with again multiple options via hubs in Europe to other UK airports. 

Obviously you are welcome to stay on in Italy and make your own way back to the UK whichever way you wanted. We'll establish your plans nearer the time.

What's included

   14 Nights Bed & Breakfast Accommodation

We stay in good quality Hotels some of which will have swimming pools. Where ever it is possible we all stay together in the same accommodation as a group. No need to check in Pedal Britain team will have done that for you, just collect your key and relax. Bikes are either locked in a secure area of the hotel or in your room. Breakfasts are all included.

 Fully Supported Tour 

The Pedal Britain support vans are never far away to provide any assistance you need, be it access to your day bag, resolve a mechanical issue, report a first aid problem or just have a morale boosting chat. Just phone the driver or tap helmet as we pass if you need anything and we'll stop for you.  

Daily Luggage Transfer

The support vehicle moves all of your luggage between each nights accommodation. Also we recommend leaving a day bag in the support van to further reduce what you need to carry on the bike.

Includes Lunch and Brew Stop Refreshments 

Lunches will be mainly in local cafe/restaurants however there may be a few picnics too. The famous Pedal Britain pop up café delivers welcome brew stops at strategic points along the route to keep energy levels up providing you with water, tea, coffee, fruit, biscuits, cake etc.. and anything else you specifically request.

Expert Cycling and Tour Guides

Pedal Britain prides itself on having staff with a 'can-do' attitude, their entire focus is on ensuring they attend to your every need, to ensure that you have the best experience possible. They have detailed knowledge of the route, are first aid qualified and decent mechanics - but most importantly they care about you. When asked 'What makes Pedal Britain better than others?' quite simply it is our amazing staff - the one thing our competition cannot copy.

Pedal Britain Tour App & Detailed Route Notes

From here you can download the relevant file format for the daily route maps - GPX, TCX etc.. These can then easily be transferred to whatever GPS unit you are using such as a Garmin or Wahoo.

Don't have a GPS unit? No problem, just download our APP and it turns your Smart Phone into a GPS unit with turn by turn route navigation.

Live Tracking App

Pedal Britain Live Tracker app allows family and friends to see how well your progressing. The same tracker also helps us keep you safe and also ensure your following the route!!

WhatsApp Tour Groups

We will invite you to join a closed WhatsApp group for your specific tour. This enables you to get to know people before the holiday and provides a platform to share training experiences or any questions, concerns you may have before the tour.

Not Included

Evening Meals - although group bookings will be made at local restaurants attendance is optional.

Travel Insurance - We highly recommend you take out insurance 

Transport to Start at Pisa or home from the End in Bari / Brindisi

Easy Bike Transfer (Available for a Fee or Free if dropping & collecting)

Single Room Option (Limited number available)

Travel logistics

Getting to the Start - Pisa

Air

London airports with direct flights to Pisa include Stansted, Heathrow and Gatwick airports. Manchester also offers a direct flight option.

Once you arrive at airport the best option of getting into the City to our Hotel is: 

1. The People Mover - this automated system connects the airport with the City Centre in just 5mins. From there you can continue on foot or 

Obviously with the tour starting on Tuesday there is the option to arrive a few days earlier and explore everything Pisa has to offer, perhaps combining a trip to explore the nearby Florence. 

Getting Home from San Maria di Marco via Bari / Brindisi

Air 

Bike transfer

Getting Your Bike to Pisa & from Santa Maria di Leuca

Procedures for taking our vans full of equipment and bikes into the EU changed from 1st January 2022. There are now many extra pieces of paperwork that we need to complete, but the one that affects customers joining our European tours is called an ATA carnet.

This document details every item and piece of equipment that we take into the EU, for customs this has to be the same when we return to the UK and has to be completed for every van that we take to/from the EU.

Good News

We can still take bicycles, helmets and saddle bags over into the EU.

Bad News

I'm afraid that we can no longer take your personal luggage.

A further restriction is what we take out has to be exactly the same as what we bring back, so there is no flexibility to offer one way transport for your bike. If that did happen then we would be subject to a 20% charge of the value of the bike.

Each ATA carnet is subject to a fee and also a security bond payment which is dependent on the value of the bikes that we are carrying over in each van. You will be requested 8 weeks prior to the trip to complete a customs declaration form that we use on the ATA Carnet. 

It is for this reason that sadly we can no longer take bikes to/from the EU for free and will have to charge £50 per bike to cover the additional charges (covers both ways) which is in addition to any charges listed below for bike transfers and will be added to your balance invoice. 

Option 1: Customer Drop Off / Collection

FREE of Charge

If you can bring your bike to our offices in Northamptonshire then we will take your bike Free of Charge. No need to dismantle we'll take it fully assembled and safely secure it in the support vehicle for transporting to Porto and Pedal Britain will bring your bike back from Tavira.

Option 2: Bike Collection or Delivery - Pedal Britain Support Van

Cost for this service is £75.00 per bike - One Way to Start or From the End

On the Tuesday and Wednesday before a tour starts and in the week after a tour end, based on geographical location of clients that have signed up for this service, Pedal Britain's support van will come to an address of your choosing, which could be work, home or cycle shop to collect / deliver your bike. This means our van will transport your bike to Porto for the start, and will bring your bike back from Tavira then deliver to you in week after.

No need for dismantling we'll take it fully assembled and safely secure in the support vehicle for transporting. 

Option 3: Bike Collection or Delivery - Transport Partner

Cost for this service is £75.00 per bike - One Way to Start or From the End

If you happen to fall outside the geographical area being covered by the support van prior to the tour then do not despair we have an alternative solution.

On the Monday before a tour starts we'll arrange for our trusted transport partner to collect your bike from an address of your choosing, which could be work, home or cycle shop and deliver your bike to Pedal Britain.

Clients will need to securely package up their own bike in a Medium size (150 x 22 x 90 cm) cardboard bike box. A local bike shop will for free or small fee provide a suitable box and much of the packing material you will need for this. Pedal Britain will bring your bike back from Nice and return your bike to you the same way in the week after a tour ends.

We cannot via this service accept helmets or any day bags packed inside the boxes.

Bike Transfer Service: Both Ways

Total Cost is £150.00 per bike 

Terms & Conditions of Bike Transfer Service

• Pedal Britain cannot be held responsible for any damage that occurs in transit - although we will obviously take great care of bikes in transit
• Where a third party is being used Pedal Britain cannot be held responsible for any damage in transit
• We recommend that you have insurance in place to cover you for any accidental damage or theft during transit