Cycling the hills of San Gimignano by E-bike

Arrive at your accommodation where you will be met for a bike fitting and a briefing on the local area. Should time allow, why not unwind by the hotel’s pool and admire the picturesque Tuscan countryside.

After breakfast set off on your first day adventure to explore the surrounding Castelvecchio Nature Reserve. Today’s route gives you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself into the Tuscan countryside. If you are lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of the rare peregrine falcon that has made this nature reserve its home. Towards the end of your cycle, you will have the chance to stop off in San Gimignano, it is most famous for it’s medieval towers, reputed to have come into being because of a bitter rivalry between neighbours. You can climb up some of them and the views of the neighbouring valleys make it well worth the effort!

Cycle towards San Gimignano and pass by the medieval towers before joining a trail of strade bianche. These white gravel roads wind through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, offering stunning views of rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves. After riding past rows of endless vineyards, why not take a break at a nearby winery to enjoy a glass of fresh Vernaccia.

This morning you will pedal through tree-lined meadows and a valley of poppy and sunflower fields to the hilltop town of Colle di Val d’Elsa. Internationally renowned for its crystal production, it is Italy’s biggest producer of fine glass and crystal. Make sure you visit Colle Alto- the panoramic, medieval old town is the perfect location to enjoy a local glass of chianti accompanied with some traditional crostini.

With a regular bus service running from San Gimignano to Siena (1 hour), today is the perfect opportunity to explore the beautifully preserved city of Siena. Begin your visit at Piazza del Campo, the town’s iconic shell shaped square, famous for the palio horse race. Climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views and don’t miss the stunning striped 14th century gothic cathedral.

Today’s ride takes you to Gambassi Terme, a well preserved spa town with cobbled streets, 12th century church and lovely shaded gardens, which was once the key stop for pilgrims travelling along the Via Francigena. After a brief visit, continue your ride to the enchanting town of Certaldo, the birthplace of the renowned writer Boccaccio. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic funicular ride up to Certaldo Alto, the medieval heart of the town, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the stunning Val d’Elsa. Visit Palazzo Pretorio, the town’s most iconic landmark, adorned with frescoes and the coats of arms of the various Governors sent here from Florence.

Explore the small hamlets that surround San Gimignano on today’s adventure. You will also visit the old town of Poggibonsi which has always been an important crossroads due to its strategic position between Siena and Florence. Above the town are the ruins of the 15C unfinished fortress, and you will pass the lovely Basilica di San Lucchese which has beautiful views across to San Gimignano’s iconic towers. Loop back to San Gimignano on the panoramic, white gravel strade bianche that crisscross the Tuscan landscape, before your final dinner at your hotel.

After breakfast leave San Donato