San Gimignano in the background

Day 1 Certaldo  Meet at the Florence train station and shuttle by van to our bike storage in the Chianti countryside. Ride to a 16th Century winery for a tour and wine tasting. Lunch together. After lunch pedal to the perfectly preserved Medieval village of Certaldo Alto. Our hotel is in a 700 year old building in the pedestrian area of the historic center.

Day 2-3 San Gimignano  Cycle past a castle and vineyards on your way to San Gimignano. Along the way enjoy beautiful views of San Gimignano's 14 stone towers. After lunch climb a tower, shop, or just savor a cappuccino in an ancient piazza. On day three we ride to a small inn for a hands-on cooking class with my friends Fulvio and Franca. The secret of Italian cooking is the fresh ingredients. For our cooking class we use ingredients from the family garden, plus of course the local wine and olive oil. Later enjoy the fruits of your labor during a four course Tuscan lunch.

Day 4-5 Volterra  We have saved the best riding for last. Lush woodland gives way to peaceful rolling hills as the countryside opens up before you. One of Tuscany's most beautiful hill towns, Volterra remains off the beaten bath. Our hotel features a pool with a fabulous view of the valley below. Relax poolside or go and visit Volterra's Roman theater or Etruscan gate. Frequent busses make for an easy departure from Volterra on day five.