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Self-guided Tuscany Coastline 7-day Cycling Tour Level 3
This particular cycling tour perfectly combines the impressive hilly landscape of Tuscany, typical of this region with its amazing mixture of colours and scents, with the striking scenery of the Etruscan coastline. Stunning bike paths lead to cultural highlights like Pisa, Livorno, Piombino and several archaelogical excavation sites. Breathe in the warm sea breeze of the Mediterranean whilst pedalling beside beautiful white sandy beaches and thrilling steep cliffs. To top all that, the tour also leads you into the hinterland relished by any food and wine connoisseur. Fine vineyards and silvery olive trees line the wine route of the 'Costa degli Etruschi'. The crowning glory and highlight of the cycling adventure is a bike trip over to the island of Elba. Relaxation and enjoyment are the main focus of this cycling trail along the impressive coastline of Tuscany! How can anyone resist and not be enticed by all these temptations…
The terrain is mainly flat to slightly hilly. The only two strenuous stretches are during the two legs in the hinterland. Nearly all cycle paths are asphalted and some segments along the sea will be on rustic but well maintained trails. Due to lack of cycle paths along some sections, cycling briefly on roads with moderate traffic is unfortunately unavoidable.
Please book your bike (85 EUR) or e-bike (189 EUR) when you book the tour: [email protected]
Slow Tours offers a number of other Cycling Tours in Europe
Arrival in Pisa
In the evening you will have your welcome briefing and get your bikes. A first glimpse and a visit to the exquisite old part of town is possible today too.
Trip to the sea approx. 30km + train journey
From the Piazza dei Miracoli, home of the Leaning Tower there are lovely trails winding through the national park 'Macchia Lucchese’ directly to the sea. Along the sandy beach you will reach the charming sea side town and spa Viareggio. On the way there and in the resort the refreshing waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea will tempt you to dive in. Short train ride back to Pisa.
Pisa – Castiglioncello approx. 40km + train journey
In the morning, you take a short train ride to Livorno. This historic harbour has a lot to offer including the well-known quarter 'Venezia Nuova’ with its many canals. Once you have cycled past the Belle Epoque villas along the river promenade, the bike tour continues deep into the hinterland. An extended ascent leads through the national park ’Monti Livornesi’, passing through traditional Tuscan villages along the way until descending towards the sea with magnificent sea views with trails along the beach and palm trees truly ooze Mediterranean atmosphere.
Castiglioncello – Marina di Castagneto approx. 50km
Today’s section is all about the Etruscan coastline. Via the famous white sandy beaches of Vada you will pass through some of the most striking pine forests in all of Italy. After that a cool cycle path in the shade leads you through the nature park 'Tomboli’ and then on to Bibbona. From there your journey takes you to the well known wine region of Bolgheri. It is here where the top Tuscan grapes are pressed! After passing the longest Italian avenue lined with cypresses, once again the sea is not far away. Marina di Castagneto is a classic Italian sea side town with its many beach cafes and promenades.
Marina di Castagneto – Piombino approx. 60km
The day starts with an ascent towards the medieval town called Castagneto Carducci. A well deserved break over a cappuccino and stunning views follows. After that, the ride continues upwards on a curvy mountain road through romantic cork oak forests. A few breaks in little traditional villages with the characteristic stone built houses will stay in your memory forever. Next, a comfortable descent through olive groves takes you to the well-known beach 'Golfo di Baratti’ with Etruscan excavation sites and all. Only a few kilometres left until Piombino, an impressive seaside town where you can relax on the Piazza directly by the sea.
Day trip to the island of Elba approx. 15/35km + ferry ride
A ferry ride will take you to Portoferraio (duration approx. 1hr). Stunning scenery and first glimpses of the island accompany the boat trip. A short cycle path along the panoramic route will lead you to several secluded bays and coves. The longer tour takes you through the hilly hinterland with its characteristic island vegetation of the ’Macchia Mediterranea’. On the return journey to Piombino a picturesque and glorious sunset at sea will be the perfect ending to this day.
Departure or extension
If you would like to drive yourself before or after your tour, ask us for a quote on any brand new Renault, Peugeot or Citroen vehicle for driving in Europe.
Pick up your vehicle from most capital cities in Europe and return it to your drop off destination. Top insurance cover. Email [email protected] for a competitive quote
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