Upon arrival, make your way to your first hotel. After check-in you are free to relax or explore Pisa. The town is located on the banks of the River Arno and is home to the world’s most famous case of subsidance! There is much more to this bustling University town than just the leaning tower however. Wander the ancient narrow streets of the compact old town, browsing the stalls and shops on the Borgo Stretto and Corso Italia. The Museum of the Works of the Cathedral is very interesting and you also get a great view of the leaning tower from its balcony.

Your first day in the saddle leads you northwards along the Serchio river. This easy section eases you into the cycling routine, enabling you to relax and soak up the Pisan countryside. For those willing to take on a slightly longer itinerary it is possible to bolt on a 15km loop out to Lake Massaciuccoli before arriving in Lucca where you will spend the night. This ancient city contains marvellous examples of Roman architecture. The impressive defensive walls, designed by Leonardo Da Vinci, were never breached.

Having had a relaxing start to your tour, you will be eager to get today’s adventure underway. The day starts with a lovely ride along a panoramic road to the charming little village of Collodi, the childhood home of Carlo Lorenzini who wrote the book The Adventures of Pinocchio. You could visit Pinocchio Park, created in 1962 or the baroque style, Villa Garzoni with its magnificent gardens. Afterwards visit the town of Pescia where you can explore Renaissance mansions or wander through the rather wonderful flower street market before riding on to Montecatini, a charming spa town in the hills.

Today’s route is a circular one so you can, if you wish, have a cycle-free day and relax in the most famous thermal spa town in Italy.

If you do opt to cycle, today’s ride will lead you past the Villas of the Medici family, through olive groves, vineyards and historical farms to the small village of Vinci, birthplace of Leanardo da Vinci. The local museum is well worth a visit but the gorgeous countryside en route to and from Vinci is definitely the highlight of the day.

Those wanting a shorter ride today can take the train to the city of Pistoia (not included) and start riding from there. You can of course choose to start peddling directly from Montecatini. Pistoia is a charming city full of medieval, Renaissance and Baroque splendour. It is an enchanting place so allow plenty of time to explore. It’s OK to indulge in some local delicacies as the afternoon ride to Florence is along flat terrain and not overly taxing.

A full day’s sighteeing in Florence. Even if you are not an art lover, the architecture in central Florence is captivating. It is up to you how you would like to explore this delightful city but our tip is to return to Piazza dei Signori by the Uffizi in the evening when the statues and architecture are softly lit and the whole area takes on a different character. This romantic city combines architecture, cuisine and art and you are bound to have a wonderful day getting to know its many delights.

It’s your final day and you’ll round off your tour with a day that will be part peddling, part train ride (not included). Choose between cycling from Florence to Empoli (40km) and then taking a train to Pisa. Or taking the train to Empoli and then cycling onwards, to Pisa 65km. The latter leads you along the River Arno. Either way, your ride will be beautiful and the perfect way to end your Tuscan cycling adventure.

After breakfast it’s time to check out and head for home or your next adventure.