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Italy

Tuscany-South: MTB in Val d'Orcia

MTB
Food and Wine
Cultural trip
Cycling
Independent, Self Guided
  • Stay at a quintessential Tuscan Estate with onsite wellness resort and organic food production. The restaurant serves entrees prepared primarily with their own local produce.
  • Visit the natural, artistic and cultural treasures of the Val d'Orcia, on the UNESCO heritage list
  • Wonderful landscapes, wide open fields, cypress-lined hills and vineyards
  • Incredibly well preserved Medieval and Renaissance villages and hilltop towns
  • Peaceful country roads, friendly Tuscans and delicious regional culinary specialties

From: 560 €

Tripcode: ITSB060

3 Comfort

 

Level 1 - EN:

Simple accommodation, often with multiple rooms like huts, cottages or guesthouses. Sometimes with bunk beds and often with shared bathrooms. All camping trips fall into this category.

Level 1 - EN:

Simple accommodation, often with multiple rooms like huts, cottages or guesthouses. Sometimes with bunk beds and often with shared bathrooms. All camping trips fall into this category.

Level 2:

Simple to good inns, small family hotels, B&Bs and agriturismo (farmsteads), generaly with private bathroom. Often chosen for their excellent location in relation to the itinerary.

Level 2:

Simple to good inns, small family hotels, B&Bs and agriturismo (farmsteads), generaly with private bathroom. Often chosen for their excellent location in relation to the itinerary.

Level 2:

Simple to good inns, small family hotels, B&Bs and agriturismo (farmsteads), generaly with private bathroom. Often chosen for their excellent location in relation to the itinerary.

Level 3:

Good hotels, inns, B&B, agriturismo (farmstead) with ensuite private bathroom, often wel located and serving good meals

Level 3:

Good hotels, inns, B&B, agriturismo (farmstead) with ensuite private bathroom, often wel located and serving good meals

Level 3:

Good hotels, inns, B&B, agriturismo (farmstead) with ensuite private bathroom, often wel located and serving good meals

Level 4:

Special hotel with excellent food, ambiance and service. Accommodations with a special touch.

Level 4:

Special hotel with excellent food, ambiance and service. Accommodations with a special touch.

Level 4:

Special hotel with excellent food, ambiance and service. Accommodations with a special touch.

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2 Difficulty

 

Level 1:

Walking levels:

Trips with short walks of generally three to four hours (excluding breaks) and/or optional day excursions; flat or slightly hilly terrain using well kept paths.

Cycling levels:

Easy biking in nearly flat landscape; also possible for people with little or no bicycle experience. The daily distances are approximately 30-50 km in general. Bicycles with up to 3 gears can do the job. All our adult rental bikes have at least 21 gears.

Level 1:

Walking levels:

Trips with short walks of generally three to four hours (excluding breaks) and/or optional day excursions; flat or slightly hilly terrain using well kept paths.

Cycling levels:

Easy biking in nearly flat landscape; also possible for people with little or no bicycle experience. The daily distances are approximately 30-50 km in general. Bicycles with up to 3 gears can do the job. All our adult rental bikes have at least 21 gears.

Level 2:

Walking levels:

Moderate day walks, 4-5 hours per day (excluding breaks) on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths.

Cycling levels:

Biking on gently undulating terrain, you may encounter short climbs from time to time. The daily distances vary between 30 and 65 km. A bicycle with minimum 7 gears will do. All our rental bikes have at least 21 gears.

Level 2:

Walking levels:

Moderate day walks, 4-5 hours per day (excluding breaks) on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths.

Cycling levels:

Biking on gently undulating terrain, you may encounter short climbs from time to time. The daily distances vary between 30 and 65 km. A bicycle with minimum 7 gears will do. All our rental bikes have at least 21 gears.

Level 2:

Walking levels:

Moderate day walks, 4-5 hours per day (excluding breaks) on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths.

Cycling levels:

Biking on gently undulating terrain, you may encounter short climbs from time to time. The daily distances vary between 30 and 65 km. A bicycle with minimum 7 gears will do. All our rental bikes have at least 21 gears.

Level 3:

Walking levels:

Trips with strenuous day walks or trekking in mountainous areas. 5 to 7 hours walking maximum per day, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for one night; height differences between 500 & 1000 m. per day

Cycling levels:

Strenuous biking trips in areas where you cannot avoid steep slopes. Some bicycle experience in short trips is needed. The daily distances range from 30 up to 75 km.

Level 3:

Walking levels:

Trips with strenuous day walks or trekking in mountainous areas. 5 to 7 hours walking maximum per day, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for one night; height differences between 500 & 1000 m. per day

Cycling levels:

Strenuous biking trips in areas where you cannot avoid steep slopes. Some bicycle experience in short trips is needed. The daily distances range from 30 up to 75 km.

Level 3:

Walking levels:

Trips with strenuous day walks or trekking in mountainous areas. 5 to 7 hours walking maximum per day, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for one night; height differences between 500 & 1000 m. per day

Cycling levels:

Strenuous biking trips in areas where you cannot avoid steep slopes. Some bicycle experience in short trips is needed. The daily distances range from 30 up to 75 km.

Level 4:

Walking levels:

Trips with heavy excursions in high mountains, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for several nights. 6 to 8 hours maximum per day; height differences up to 1200 meters per day; only for participants with an excellent condition and without fear of heights.

Cycling levels:

Serious and strenuous biking trips in mountainous area, the slopes are longer and/or steeper than at the previous category. Requires a good physical condition, a broad cycling experience and adequate mountain climbing bicycle. The daily distances range between 30 and 80 km.

Level 4:

Walking levels:

Trips with heavy excursions in high mountains, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for several nights. 6 to 8 hours maximum per day; height differences up to 1200 meters per day; only for participants with an excellent condition and without fear of heights.

Cycling levels:

Serious and strenuous biking trips in mountainous area, the slopes are longer and/or steeper than at the previous category. Requires a good physical condition, a broad cycling experience and adequate mountain climbing bicycle. The daily distances range between 30 and 80 km.

Level 4:

Walking levels:

Trips with heavy excursions in high mountains, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for several nights. 6 to 8 hours maximum per day; height differences up to 1200 meters per day; only for participants with an excellent condition and without fear of heights.

Cycling levels:

Serious and strenuous biking trips in mountainous area, the slopes are longer and/or steeper than at the previous category. Requires a good physical condition, a broad cycling experience and adequate mountain climbing bicycle. The daily distances range between 30 and 80 km.

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Duration: 8 days

Book now

 

Details

Easy Mountain Biking in South of Siena in the UNESCO Vald'Orcia Valley

The Tuscan landscape of the Val d'Orcia will warm your heart like a classic photograph as you immerse yourself in its natural beauty. You are in for a thrilling ride through steep valleys, dense forests, rivers and the legendary "badlands" eroded clay slopes. MTB past picturesque farmhouses nestled amidst olive groves, vineyards and fig trees on your way to the hot springs hamlet of Bagno Vignoni and the heavenly Rennaissance city of Pienza. You shall visit captivating palaces, Romanesque churches, thermal baths, and prestigious wineries serving the divine local red "Brunello". Soaring up high to invigorating hilltop towns, you will revel in delight.

Itinerary

Expand itinerary Collapse itinerary
 
Day 1: Arrive in Buonconvento

Upon arrival in the charming Medieval town of Buonconvento, rich in history and architecture with 700-year old walls, a short transfer will take you to the agriturismo (farm) where you will be staying, perfectly situated in the splendid countryside. A delicious Tuscan dinner awaits you! If you have rented bikes with us, they will be waiting for you at the accommodation.

Villages along the way: Buonconvento

Day 2: Monte Oliveto Maggiore Monastery ride

In the morning, bike through the spectacular eroded clay landscape called the badlands. Later, within the thick woods of the Crete Senesi, enter the renowned monastery of Monte Oliveto Maggiore with its delightful frescos and botanical garden. After replenishing your soul and admiring the frescos, follow a winding route through lush woodlands on top of fascinating clay cliffs. Live it up!

Challenge: 23.6 km; 550m climb or 17.3 km; 300m climb

Villages along the way: Buonconvento, Monte Oliveto Maggiore, Chiusure

Day 3: Murlo and La Befa round trip

Enjoy an exhilarating ride on narrow trails by the Crevole River, then up a former mining railway track to Murlo. Cycle along steep cliffs and immerse yourself in the bountiful, uncontaminated countryside. Continue down striking rocky tracks with some nice technical sections and inhale the sweet smell of bright yellow flowers on route to La Befa. Return amidst an enchanting oak forest.

Challenge: 27.2 km; 500 climb

Villages along the way: Murlo, La Befa & Buonconvento

Day 4: Buonconvento to San Quirico d'Orcia

Today is rather relaxing as you begin with a long descent above the Asso valley then on sand tracks gazing over enchanting 360 degre views of Southern Tuscanys majestic landscape. Follow an ancient pilgrimage route to the fortified medieval town of San Quirico dOrcia. On your way back, you will encounter a serene little lake and charming church surrounded by unusually high cypresses.

Challenge: 24.5 km; 500 climb

Villages along the way: San Quirico d'Orcia

Day 5-6: Circular ride to the "Animal Farm"

Follow a quintessential Tuscan gravel road down until you reach a serene pond and tiny church. Reach the hidden, half-abandoned Animal farm, where the Cinta Senese pigs run the show. Underneath steep cliffs, along a fresh stream, and surrounded by dense woods, this is an alluring, passionate setting. A long winding climb leads you back to San Quirico.

Challenge: 22.6 km; 500 climb

Villages along the way: San Quirico and the "Animal Farm"

Day 5-6: The Hot springs of Bagno Vignoni

Begin your day cycling through an oak forest rich in wild life. Follow uphill on wide gravel roads and admire views of the robust castle of Ripa dOrcia. Ride some pebbly hairpin curves into the Orcia valley, then along wooded river banks until you triumphantly enter the stunning medieval hamlet of Bagno Vignoni, with its healing baths, home to the legendary water nymphs.

Challenge: 14.2 km 450 climb

Villages along the way: Bagno Vignoni

Day 5-6: Pienza the Ideal City round trip

Ride across an arched medieval bridge and past the Tuoma stream where the road climbs and opens, revealing breathtaking views. A winding road leads you past isolated villages and along an extensive row of cypress trees to the stunning SantAnna in Camprena monastery. Continue on for a visit of the exquisite town of Pienza. Return to San Quirico on a delightful strada bianca.

Challenge: 39.1 km; 600 climb

Villages along the way: San Quirico, Sant' Anna in Camprena & Pienza

Day 7: Montalcino to Buonconvento

Pedal through sunflower fields to the heart of the Brunello wine district. The steep ride up to the fortified hilltop city of Montalcino is, unfortunately, on asphalt and visit its magnificent 14th century fortress and Palazzo Comunale. BAck on Track, with the Monte Amiata volcano silhouetted behind, cycle along seemingly endless olive groves and vineyards until suddenly; youre back in the badlands  an impressive climax to this MTB tour.

Challenge: 32.7 km; 650 climb

Villages along the way: Montalcino & Buonconvento

Day 8: Arrivederci Val d'Orcia

After breakfast you are transferred down to Buonconvento (arrange the time with the reception). The trip and our services end here, unless you have booked a transfer to the airport or other supplementary services.

Villages along the way: Buonconvento

Practical info

Included:

  • 7 nights accommodation, rooms with private en-suite bathrooms; 4 nights in organic farmhouse with wellness center, spa, horse riding center, superb restaurant and both outdoor and indoor pool. 3 nights in comfortable 3* hotel with swimming pool.
  • Arrival transfer from the train station of Buonconvento to Fattoria Pieve a Salti and departure transfer from Fattoria Pieve a Salti back to the Buonconvento train station
  • 7 overnight stays, 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners at the Fattoria Pieve a Salti (drinks not included)
  • Luggage transfer on days 4 and 7
  • 24-hour telephone assistance
  • Detailed road book and maps

Not Included:

  • Flights and public transport
  • Bike rental
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Admissions and entrance fees of any kind
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal extras and expenses such as meals, phone calls, beverages during meals, etc.
  • Any items that have not been mentioned in this program

Optional Services:

  • Bike hire (21 speed MTB bike, helmet, puncture repair kit, pump, lock and map holder) bike is picked up and dropped off at the first/last accommodation)
  • Additional nights in Florence, Siena or at carefully selected hotels elsewhere in Italy
  • Transfer to and from your airport of arrival or place of stay
  • Beauty/wellness treatments at the estate
  • Single room supplement
  • Guided city tour of the towns you visit during the rides with a local city guide

Extra Overnight:

Additional nights during the trip or at any other destination in Italy including Siena, Florence, or Rome

Getting there and away:

Florence airport has regular international flights. Several low cost carriers serve Pisa and Bologna.
www.trenitalia.it ; www.trainspa.it ; www.terravision.it/

  • Florence: Take the bus to Santa Maria Novella train station and then the train to Buonconvento. Change in Siena. Travel time approx. 2.5h
  • Pisa: From the airport take the train to Buonconvento, you have to change at Pisa Centrale, Empoli and Siena. Travel time approx 3h. 
  • Bologna: Take the bus to Bologna Centrale train station then the train to Buonconveto. Change in Florence and in Siena. Travel time approx. 3.5h
    On departure take the train and bus to the airport of departure.

Reviews

Start: Buonconvento

Finish: Buonconvento

 

Dates & prices

Trip availability: Starting any day from 1 April to 31 October

Departures
April 01, 2013 - April 23, 2013
Dates of the trip Price
triple room: 560 €/person
twin room: 610 €/person
double room: 610 €/person
single room: 770 €/person
solo, single room: 850 €/person
April 24, 2013 - June 02, 2013
Dates of the trip Price
triple room: 590 €/person
twin room: 640 €/person
double room: 640 €/person
single room: 815 €/person
solo, single room: 900 €/person
June 03, 2013 - July 25, 2013
Dates of the trip Price
triple room: 560 €/person
twin room: 610 €/person
double room: 610 €/person
single room: 770 €/person
solo, single room: 850 €/person
July 26, 2013 - September 30, 2013
Dates of the trip Price
triple room: 590 €/person
twin room: 640 €/person
double room: 640 €/person
single room: 815 €/person
solo, single room: 900 €/person
October 01, 2013 - October 31, 2013
Dates of the trip Price
triple room: 560 €/person
twin room: 610 €/person
double room: 610 €/person
single room: 770 €/person
solo, single room: 850 €/person

Other prices

Bike rental (6 days). 95€

Other prices

January 01, 2013 - January 31, 2014
Dates of the trip Price
mountain bike: 100 €/person
hybrid Bike: 100 €/person