From Florence to Riccione - From the Hills to the Coast
From Tuscany’s Rolling Hills to the Romagna Riviera: A bit of Culture, a bit of Climbing, plus a healthy dose of Coastal Charm.
Overview
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Designed for the cyclist who wants to both see the sights and get off the beaten track, this 6-day cycling adventure takes you from culturally rich Florence to the stylish Romagna Riviera, following in the tracks of the 2024 Tour de France Grand Depart and the cycling legend Marco Pantani.
Ride through the serene Casentino Forest, conquer iconic climbs like Passo di Mandrioli and Colle del Barbotto, and visit the tiny hilltop Republic of San Marino.
Conclude your journey with coastal breezes as you cycle along the Adriatic Sea, visiting charming towns like Rimini, Cesenatico, and Pesaro.
Included in this trip
- 5 nights accommodation in select boutique hotels including breakfast
- Pick-up and transfer from the airport to the pick-up hotel (also if arriving in advance of trip start)
- Support with set-up of rental bike, or assembly/disassembly of own bike
- Orientation meeting on day 1
- All on-trip luggage transfers
- Daily on-trip van support
- All on-trip transfers
- Exclusive access to the CyclingHero Companion App with daily multiple route options and local insights
- Access to Hammerhead Karoo-2 bike computer with pre-installed CyclingHero route options
- Bike box storage for the entire duration of the trip
- Post trip drop off at the airport
* Click Book Now to view specific dates and prices
I was more than satisfied and had a terrific time. The riding, routes, hotels, the Giro watching spots, dinner spots…all top notch. It felt very "bespoke" without being stuffy. Bob and Caterina and Puppers…Italy’s best hosts. I will return…Stelvio next!
"CyclingHero: really, the best cycling experience of my life, bar none."
"If you want to book a cycling trip in Italy in the Dolomites and Prosecco Hills region, then CyclingHero is the tour company for you! The personal touch and attention to detail will allow you to enjoy your vacation and experience the Italian culture."
"What a great trip! We were comfortable from start to finish with the itinerary, logistics, routes, directions, app, places to go post-ride, etc. What an experience. Across the board it was awesome and we are planning on taking another tour."
"This CyclingHero adventure was absolutely amazing - I saw parts of Italy that I'd never likely see during a normal tourist visit, all while doing what I love more than anything - cycling! The terrain was incredible, the vistas unforgettable, and the organizers are highly experienced, and thus have thought through all the fine details of a cycling adventure of this sort."
"Everything a cycling trip should be with a twist of technology!"
"What an incredible experience. High end, fantastic hotels, and incredible scenery. I love the concept. I'm not one for organized events with people that I don't know. There can be too much starting, stopping, waiting, and indecision when you have a group of different people of different abilities that don't know each other."
"The selection of hotels, bars and restaurants recommended were top notch, and the whole trip was delivered at a great price considering the high-end nature of the itinerary."
"Without a doubt, the CyclingHero tour was the best cycling week of my 20+ years of cycling. A real challenge, but perfectly curated, and with excellent support throughout the trip."
"The itinerary was very well thought out and rides built on each other, culminating in a spectacular climb of the Monte Grappa. A memorable experience - highly recommended!"
Day-to-Day Schedule
After a short transfer from Florence and bike set-up, it's time to stretch your legs and experience the beautiful landscape surrounding the medieval town of Poppi. Along the way stop in to take in the tranquility at the Eremo di Camaldoli, a still-functioning hermitage dating from the 11th century. Return to Poppi to enjoy an evening aperitivo and dinner in the shadow of magnificent Poppi castle. Benvenuti in Toscana!
After a nice warm up along a flatter stretch through the Historic center of Bibbiena, it's time to take on the main challenge of the day, the Passo dei Mandrioli, which acts as the border between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. A long, spectacular descent bring you all the way to your base for the next two nights, the thermal town of Bagno di Romagna. Call it a day and relax in the hotel spa, or take in an additional challenging loop that circles the Monte Comero.
If you can tear yourself away from the comfort of your spa retreat in Bagno di Romagna, a stunning loop awaits. This route climbs around Monte Fumaiolo, a spectacular area known as the source of the mighty Tiber River, which flows through Rome. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Venice on the horizon!
Riding out of Bagno di Romagna, the route follows the Savio River Valley to the day's main challenge, the Colle del Barbotto. One of the most famous passes of the Romagna region and an important obstacle of the Nove Colli Granfondo, the Barbotto was also a favourite of a certain Marco Pantani. With the Barbotto claimed, you can either head straight for the coast or extend the ride with a scenic detour up and through San Marino, the smallest and oldest Republic in the world. Both routes merge onto the flat coastal road from Rimini to Riccione, where you'll spend the final two nights of your trip.
For your last riding day, you have several options to choose from. Followers of Marco Pantani ride up the coast to Pantani's birthplace, Cesenatico and visit 'Il Pirata' Museum. Alternatively, a beautiful out-and-back route up the coast to Pesaro, passing through the San Bartolo National Park, offers a bit more climbing. Lastly, if you missed San Marino yesterday, you have another chance with a medium-challenge loop that takes in the world's tiniest republic. Make sure to leave time for a final relaxing walk along the Lungomare waterfront walking path before dinner. Just watch out for cyclists!
It’s time to pack up your bike and head home, or perhaps extend your stay, exploring the enchanting Romagna coast or revisiting the timeless beauty of Florence. The choice is yours!
* Click Book Now to view specific dates and prices
Why CyclingHero
Life is busy. Your vacation should fit your schedule and preferences. As your locally-based cycling concierge, we will customise an unforgettable trip for you in spectacular Northern Italy, where we live and ride every day.
A good night’s sleep and a proper breakfast are fundamental to an enjoyable day of riding. But a great place to stay is also about connecting with where you are, and having an authentic experience.
Let Us Help You Create the Perfect Cycling Adventure
Tell us about your dream tour, and we'll be in touch with our customised recommendations just for you.