Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
12.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
Cycle from the iconic leaning tower of Pisa to Ponte Vecchio in Florence, passing through beautiful Tuscan landscape that inspired artists and composers such as Leonardo da Vinci and Puccini. The gentle cycling is mainly along riverside paths and quiet roads, and there are opportunities to lengthen the rides, or take the train at some stages to spend some extra time at your destinations. Enjoy a free day in the romantic city of Florence and take some time to visit the sights of one of the world's most stunning cities!
Terrain: 88% tarmac, 12% unpaved
Make your own way to Pisa. This UNESCO World Heritage city is known all over the world for the iconic leaning tower, but it is also home to beautiful Renaissance piazze, Romanesque buildings and renowned art galleries.
You stay at Selected hotels.
Hotels , Pisa to Florence
We use 3 star hotels throughout, all en suite. The hotels are chosen for their excellent facilities and proximity to the relevant local sites. All rooms have en suite facilities and air conditioning. Please specify whether you would prefer a double or twin room when booking.
Eating & Drinking
Breakfasts are included and usually consist of a continental style spread along with a buffet. Suggestions of what to do for lunch and dinner are given in the information material provided. Tuscan food is based around the notion of cucina povera, or 'poor cooking'. Simple, inexpensive meals are made using fresh, high-quality, local ingredients to bring out the natural flavours. Dishes are traditionally hearty and you will find mouth-watering soups and stews made with beans and local meats appearing on all menus, paired with a glass of the local Chianti of course! Tuscany is famous for its truffles, mushrooms and homegrown olive oil, and you will also find a variety of delicious breads as an accompaniment to most meals. It is impossible to offer an exhaustive list of suggestions for 'must-try' dishes, but here are a few recommendations: Panzanella - a cold bread salad made using the simple ingredients of unsalted bread, tomatoes, red onions, basil, olive oil, vinegar and salt Lardo di Colonnata - cured meat generally served as a starter Cacciucco - fish stew, or soup Lampredotto - a stew using the fourth stomach of a cow, cooked in a broth and often found served as street food Castagnaccio - a traditional cake made with chestnut flour Wine lovers will be spoilt for choice, and each town generally has its own wine, so if the choice becomes overwhelming, it is simple enough to go for the vino della casa (house wine) which will likely be a delicious Tuscan table wine.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
Pedal northwards along the beautiful River Serchio. If you want to extend your route, cycle towards Lake Massaciuccoli before reaching the Renaissance town of Lucca. Encircled by its perfectly preserved city walls, the town is also the birthplace of the great composer, Puccini and concerts are held here every night in his honour.
Cycle towards Collodi and the town of Pescia. In Collodi, where the author of Pinocchio spent his childhood, you can visit the famous Pinocchio's Park and the aristocratic Villa Garzoni. In Pescia, stroll around the town, discovering churches, mansions and its quaint local flower market, before heading to Montecatini Terme.
Enjoy a free day to explore one of the most famous spa towns in Europe. Take the funicular to the top of the hill or stroll around the Old Town. Alternatively, cycle past olive groves, vineyards and villas to Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci's birthplace, where there is a museum dedicated to the artist.
You have two choices today; either cycle directly from Montecatini Terme, or take a short train transfer to Pistoia, a city rich in Romanesque and Renaissance monuments, boasting one of the most evocative squares in Italy: Piazza del Duomo. From here, cycle through the Tuscan flatland to Florence.
Enjoy a free day in Florence. Meander down enchanting streets, marvel at the cathedral or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte for spectacular views. The historical city centre is surprisingly small, but incredibly rich in detail, architecture and monuments.
Today you can choose to either pedal directly from Florence to Empoli and take a train on to Pisa, or take a train from Florence to Empoli and ride to Pisa along the picturesque river Arno. Arrive in Pisa with time to enjoy this lively, friendly city.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £254.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Pisa airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
12.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
