Be part of the Italian cycling phenomenon known as Gran Fondo Nove Colli. Recognised as one of the cycling world’s best sportive events, it attracts over 11,000 participates from around the globe. For cycling enthusiast it represents all that is special about cycling – and it this particular case all that is special about cycling it Italy.

This 8 night/9 day trip commences in the extraordinary cycling countryside of central Tuscany, offering the opportunity to experience the best of Italian cycling. Here the roads lead us to discover classic hilltop towns, ancient villages and castles, World Heritage listed landscapes, and finally Italy’s No 1 cycling event – Gran Fondo Nove Colli.

Itinerary
Day 1: Sunday 16^th May - Trequanda, Tuscany
Arrive independently at Trequanda accommodation*. Upon arrival at hotel you will meet trip host who will assist you with any initial travel needs and bike set-up. The family owned and operated accommodation is a 336 hectare wine estate and has its origins dating back over 500 years. Surrounded by picture postcard countryside and quite back-roads the area is an oasis for cycling.On our initial night we are treated to a welcome dinner.
Meals: D

Day 2: Monday 17^th May - The Crete Ride: 55km
The first ride introduces participants to the area of the Crete. This territory is a photographers dream, providing images and landscapes ever so unique to Tuscany. The route on near perfect roads rides along ridges and hills of special atmosphere, connecting to a series of delightful medieval towns and villages.
Meals: B; D

Day 3: Tuesday 18^th May - World Heritage Ride: 75km or 45km (Option)
Today’s ride is a longer offering, taking in the outstanding World Heritage listed landscape’s of the Val d’Orcia. The excursion leads us to the stunning hilltop towns of Montepulciano and Pienza. From both you are treated to sweeping views, with Pienza sitting like a balcony over the Val d’Orcia and Montepulciano surrounded by vineyards of its famous wines.
Meals: B; D

Day 4: Wednesday 19^th May - Montalcino Ride: 75km or 35km (Option)
Today’s riding excursion unravels in the classic Tuscan hilltop town of Montalcino – our base for the next 3 nights. World famous for its exceptional red wine ‘Brunello di Montalcino,’ it sits on a lofty scenic ridge surrounded by vineyards dedicated to the production of its wine. Immersing within the vineyards and medieval atmosphere of Montalcino, we discover more extra-ordinary riding and captivating local life.
Meals: B

Day 5: Thursday 20^th May - Mount Amiata: 90km or 60km (Option)
Now well and truly ‘warmed-up’ to Italian cycling conditions it is time to experience a Giro d’Italia mountain. Today’s ride takes us to the summit of Mount Amiata, a volcanic cone 1732m above sea level that dominates the landscapes of Southern Tuscany. The challenging climb of its densely wooded slopes has before featured in the Giro d’Italia.
Meals: B

Day 6: Friday 21^st May - Brunello Trail: 60km or 20km (Option)
Today’s riding excursion is into the heart of the World Heritage listed landscape of the Val d’Orcia. The route takes us to visit the ancient thermal village of Bagno Vignoni; tranquil castle topped village of Rocca D’Orcia; and Monastery of Sant’Antimo – one of the most beautiful in Italy.
The day’s itinerary includes a memorable lunch. Immersing within a small cellar of a local ‘Brunello’ producer, we enjoy local food products along with the legendary wine of Montalcino.
Meals: B, L

Day 7: Saturday 22^nd May - Cesenatico
Following breakfast we transfer to Cesenatico, situated on the east coast of Italy in the region of Emilia-Romagna. This is the location of the Nove Colli, Italy’s no 1 cycling event that we will be participating in tomorrow.
Cesenatico will also be hosting a cycling product expo over the weekend of Nove Colli, showcasing the latest in Italian cycling technology and of course style.
Meals: B

Day 8: Sunday 23^rd May - Gran Fondo Nove Colli
The day has finally arrived – Gran Fondo Nove Colli 2010. Starting and finishing in Cesenatico, we join 11,000 passionate riders across the 200km (9 hills) or 130km (4 hills) rides of the Apennine foothills. Such is the popularity of the event that Sky Sports Italy televises it live to afternoon viewers!!
Following the ride participants are rewarded with entry into an enormous pasta party, giving the opportunity to refuel (and then refuel again!) with the best of local produce.
Meals: B, L

Day 9: Monday 24^th May - Cesenatico Departure/ Final Week of Giro d’Italia Trip Option (Dolomites)

The Rides
The trip will feature guided rides in Italy’s best riding destinations. Specifically we experience the traditional back-roads and hills of central Tuscany in the lead in the legendary Nove Colli ride, and then the awe-inspiring mountains of the Dolomites. As with the Giro you will encounter the diversity of terrain and environments that make Italy such a desirable destination to ride. Importantly riders will be supported and flexibility given for those participants that want to ride a little more or a little less.

Download Printable PDF Flyer below:
Giro10_II.indd.pdf
Download Booking Form below:
 GIRO&NC10_II_Booking Form.pdf