E-Biking - Parks of Northern Tuscany & Lucca

October 11 – 14th, 2018

www.thatstuscany.com

…because travelling responsibly makes people contribute to a better World…

The individual is at our core and the uncontainable love for our Land the fuel that propels us in creating travel experiences focused on authenticity, lifestyle and a deep attachment to the territory.

Born in 1996, we are celebrating our 22 years of business as specialized licensed Tuscany inbound Tour Operator, which never lost sight of the importance of conceiving a journey as an opportunity to connect travelers to locals leaving a mark that won’t last when you get back home.

INTRODUCTION Cycle the highlights of the “other Tuscany”, an off the beaten-track itinerary amidst nature, genuine food and authenticity.

From the northern territories of historic Lunigiana bordered by the Apennine National Park (also UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve) and dotted with enchanting hilltop medieval villages and castles, to the Garfagnana region, the so called “green forest”, embraced by the Apuan Alps (UNESCO Geopark) and boasting dramatic peaks, emerald lakes, and villages where the time seems to have stopped.

We will finish our journey in Versilia, a variegated territory which stretches from the rugged mountainous peaks of the Apuan Alps as far as the coast, cycling to the Regional Park of Lake Massaciuccoli and Lucca - one of the most stunning Tuscan art towns, still leaving on a human-scale.

Highlights: ● Cycle back to the Middle Ages in the Lunigiana Unesco Man & Biosphere Reserve across quaint villages and castles ● Explore Garfagnana and Apuan Alps meadows by mountain bike immersed in unspoilt nature ● Cycle the natural reserve of Lake Massaciuccoli and around Lucca’s medieval walls ● Indulge in the genuine local cuisine and wine

Difficulty Rating: 3 – active/moderate (average of 40/50 km cycling per day; max elevation gain 1150 m up-/1150 downhill). Thanks to the use of electric bike the tour is suitable for physically fit, active people but no technical cycling or mountain bike experience is required. Bicycles provided are e-bikes. No regular bikes are available for this itinerary. Accommodation: Twin share - limited single occupancy upon request Arrive: Montecatini Terme on Tuesday, October 11th, 2018 Operator: THAT’S TUSCANY by Versiliana viaggi Dates: October 11th, 2018 - October 14th, 2018 Start Location: Montecatini Terme, Tuscany

THAT’S TUSCANY Tel. +39 (0)584 36541 Licence n 49 of 18/4/1996 prov. Lucca a division of Versiliana Viaggi di Vita Toscana Srl Fax +39 (0)584 365430 VAT 01575150469 Via Barsanti-63-65 - 55045 Pietrasanta (LU) - Italy email [email protected]

DAY - BY - DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 - 11th October 2018 - The Spa Town of Montecatini Individual arrival at Montecatini and overnight in a 3 star superior hotel.

DAY 2 - 12th October 2018 - Cycle back to the Middle Ages

Pick-up at your hotel in Montecatini at 08:00 am and meeting with our English-speaking tour leader. A 1 hr 30 drive transfer by motorway will take us to the northern part of Tuscany called Lunigiana, historic area originated from the Roman city of Luni, embraced by the Apennine and Apuan Alps Parks and recognized in 2015 as UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve. Meet our qualified local guide and visit to the evocative Romanesque Church of Sorano, important landmark along the pilgrimage route Via Francigena - we are ready to go. Cycling along secondary asphalted roads across quaint medieval villages, we will reach Bagnone, fairytale hilltop borough with its lovely river and enchanting ponte vecchio. We continue uphill as far as its medieval castle and then along a countryside panoramic road across olive groves and fields until our next destination, Licciana Nardi. Stop for a mouthwatering tasting lunch at a local Agriturismo. After lunch we will ride across a lovely countryside road stopping at Virgoletta, medieval hamlet popular for its spring fountains, and Filetto, quaint hamlet of Byzantine origins that preserves the atmosphere of ancient times. One hour transfer will take us to Camaiore, a small medieval town set on the pilgrimage route Via Francigena. Dinner and overnight at Albergo Locanda Le Monache in shared twin rooms.

Cycling Distance: 45 Km – Elevation gain: 400m Difficulty: 3 moderate Total transfer time: 2.30 hrs Meals: Breakfast – Lunch at an agriturismo- Dinner at the hotel Overnight in Camaiore at Albergo Locanda Le Monache 3* – Twin shared rooms

DAY 3 - 13th October 2018 - Apuan Alps meadows and mountain villages by e-mtb

Breakfast at the hotel. 08:30 transfer (approx. 1 hr 30) by minivan/minibus to Garfagnana, the so called “greenland” of Northern Tuscany, where we will meet our experienced mtb guide. Hop on our electric mtb and cycle up to 1000m above sea level, as far as the characteristic mountain village of Campocatino at the foot of the Apuan Alps Unesco Geopark. Set in a lovely panoramic meadow originated from a glacial basin and overlooking the emerald Vagli Lake, this cluster of enchanting stone houses formerly used as a refuge by shepherds, is today one of the most stunning places the Garfagnana region. Finely restored it welcomes visitors to breath the atmosphere of ancient times and has been recognised in 1991 as “ Natural Oasis”. Time for lunch at one of the authentic local trattorias to savour its genuine rustic cuisine.

On our way back to the medieval fortified town of Castelnuovo, we stop at the splendid Vagli Lake to learn about the secret kept under its emerald waters. Transfer back to your hotel.

Cycling Distance: Km 55 – Elevation gain: 1150m uphill /1150m downhill. half on asphalted secondary roads / half of easy dirt roads – no single track. Difficulty : 3 moderate Total transfer time: approx. 3 hrs Meals: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner at a Pizza Restaurant in Camaiore Overnight in Camaiore at Albergo Locanda Le Monache 3* – Twin shared rooms

DAY 4 - 14th October 2018 - Massaciuccoli Lake & the charming town of Lucca

Breakfast at the hotel. We set off from our hotel in Camaiore at 09.00 towards the Massaciuccoli Lake cycling on up and downhill roads enjoying stunning views either over the Camaiore valley, and the beautiful coastline which runs from the La Spezia Gulf (to the North) as far as Leghorn (to the South). The Massaciuccoli lake with its 2000 sq meters of wetlands is part of a Regional Park and is a LIPU (Italian League for Protection of Birds) natural oasis housing hundreds of bird species. The two main settlements on the lakes are Massaciuccoli - small hamlet of Roman origin, and Torre del Lago - home place and inspiration of the opera composer Giacomo Puccini, that’s why the lake is also known as the “Puccini’s Lake”.

We leave our bikes and explore the lake walking on wooden walkways immersed in the lacustrine vegetation, and where the views gaze as far as the majestic backdrop of the Apuan Alps.

Funded by the Romans, Massaciuccoli features an important archaeological area, including the ruins of a Villa dating back to the 2nd century AD with panoramic views over the lake as far as the coast. It is located at the feet of an ancient parish Church, amidst olive trees - the ideal place to relax and and enjoy our picnic lunch.

We hop back on our bike and cycle along the Puccini cycling trail following the course of the river Serchio, across a flat plain framed by the Monti Pisani, with splendid views over the castles of Nozzano and Ripafratta. Arrival at the charming town of Lucca where we will cycle its 4 km fortified walls. Leave our bike and enjoy some free time to take a stroll or do some shopping, before being transferred to Montecatini (approx. 30 min drive).

Cycling Distance: 40 Km – Elevation gain: 300m Difficulty : 3 moderate Total transfer time: approx. 30 min Meals: Breakfast – Picnic lunch

Accommodation Summary: Day 1 : 4 star Hotel in Montecatini Terme - Twin shared Bedroom (Wi-Fi available throughout hotel) Day 2-3 : Locanda Le Monache - Twin shared bedroom (Wi-Fi available throughout hotel) https://www.thatstuscany.com/hotel/locanda-le-monache/

Route Map:

Group Size: 4 - 12 participants

Price per person: 4-8 pax 1190,00 per person € 9-12 pax 860,00 per person €

Optional Supplements: ● Supplement for DUS 78,00 euro per person /upon request. € ● Luggage storage service: Any luggage not needed during your pre-summit tour can be stored in Montecatini. This service has a cost of 13,00 per person. In case the hotel assigned to you for the Summit will be € different from the one used upon arrival the service also includes the luggage transfer to the new hotel.

Inclusions: Exclusions: ● Accommodation 3 nights: ● Alcoholic beverages, others than the ones included - 1 Overnight pre-tour in twin shared room 4* during tasting, and the 1 glass of wine during meals star hotel in Montecatini (not in Lunch boxes) - 2 nts in twin shared room 3* hotel in Versilia ● Flight tickets - Tourist tax where required ● Extras & Tips ● Daily transfer by minivan/ minibus from the ● Trip Cancellation/medical/evacuation insurance ● Expenses due to withdrawal of the program accommodation to the bike tour location ● All what not expressly mentioned in the section ● Luggage transfer on day 4 from Camaiore “Inclusions” Meals: all meals included from breakfast on Day 2 to lunch on Day 4 : - 3 breakfasts - 2 lunches - 1 lunch box - 2 dinners - Beverages: non alcoholic beverages during meals. 1 glass wine included - Water and fresh fruits during the trip ● English speaking tour leader ● Experienced bike guide for 3 days of activities ● E-bike rental with helmet (regular bike rental not possible; e-bikes only on this trip)

Weather October is considered to be one of the best months to visit Tuscany. The average temperatures in October are set between 11 and 21°C . However, the complex topography of Tuscany includes micro-climate differences within its different regions. Layering is therefore important, as well as be prepared with a proper rain and windproof jacket.

General Advices ● Maximum elevation we will reach during the tour is 1000 asl ● Tour includes cycling on secondary asphalted roads, cycling trails, dirt roads and short off-road tracks. ● All distances/timings/itineraries/gradients are approximate and subject to variation prior or during the tour in case of strict organizational exigencies or at discretion of the guides due to circumstances not foreseeable at the time of writing this program.

Dietary requirements Please advise any food intolerances or allergies at the time of booking. We do our best to meet your specific exigencies as regards allergies or food intolerances. However in case of very strict diet, we might not be able to accommodate your requirement and advise you to bring some snacks along with you. For severe allergies at risk of anaphylaxis please do not forget to carry along sufficient quantity of EpiPen.

PACKING LIST Luggage Medium to large duffle or rolling soft-sided luggage Packing cubes/stuff sacks Light Day pack during activities for your daily personal items/Lunch box when foreseen

Clothing: Casual clothing/shoes for travel and city wear (lightweight, easily washable) Rain/windproof jacket Jacket – fleece or softshell Warm jumper and wool hat T-shirts, quick drying Long sleeve shirt, quick drying Cycling jerseys Arm warmers Sport or cycling pants Underwear/Sport bra (quick drying) Sleepwear Thin buff (in case of winds) Gloves for biking activities

Footwear: Sport shoes Sport socks, synthetic or wool

Assorted Persona Items 1L Water bottle (cycling) Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF Sun hat Sunglasses Gloves Personal hygiene items (toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.) Personal first aid kit / medications Camera/memory cards/battery Small personal drybag - to protect your camera and electronics Plug adapter

GETTING TO MONTECATINI TERME Tuscany airports are: Pisa Galileo Galilei (www.pisa-airport.com) and Florence Amerigo Vespucci (www.aeroporto.firenze.it). Both are within easy drive to Montecatini, located at 40 km from the town, and quickly connected to it by motorway. Florence Airport is about 6 km from Firenze Santa Maria Novella Florence railway station, which can also be reached by means of public transport service at the price of 6,00 each ticket. € Pisa Airport is about 1 km from Pisa Centrale railway station, which can also be reached by means of public transport. At less than 40 metres from the Passenger Terminal you can find the new People Mover service for direct connections between the Airport and Pisa Centrale railway station at a cost of 2,70 each ticket. € At both airports major car rental companies desks are available (pre-booking is advisable). The railway station in Montecatini Terme is “ Montecatini Centro” and is located within easy walk from the city centre. For any information about train timings and fares please visit www.trenitalia.com

ABSTRACT FROM THE GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF TOUR PACKAGE SALES

BOOKING Booking requests shall be made in writing including full details of participants ( name, surname, address, nationality, birth date, n.of passport, expiry date, place of issue) and any specific exigencies/particular request to the email address [email protected]. We undertake to process your request priority and in case of availability we will send you a confirmation together with the specification of the services booked, the price and the travel contract. Availability will be blocked for 72 hours from our reconfirmation, which is the time you shall send back to us the travel contract duly signed for acceptance and pay the deposit or amounts as specified below. Your booking is binding from the moment of our initial reconfirmation to you, and for any referral the date of the booking is the one in the contract. In case of arrangements including bike activities you are kindly requested to also communicate your height, weight, and possibly head circumference, so to allow us to immediately book the most appropriate bike/helm for you.

PAYMENTS Bookings are subject to a deposit of 25% at the time of booking. Balance shall be paid within 60 days prior to the start of the tour. Accepted methods of payment are bank transfer.

CANCELLATIONS If for any reasons you or one of the participants listed on your booking is due to cancel the Arrangements before the departure the following cancellation penalties will apply: from 59 to 31 days prior to the start of the tour: 15% of the total Travel Package amount from 30 to 22 days prior to the start of the tour: 25% of the total Travel Package amount from 21 to 8 days prior to the start of the tour: 50% of the total Travel Package amount from 7 to no show, or if you cut short your holiday : 100% of the total amount Cancellations shall be communicated to us in writing by read receipt email. The date of the cancellation is the one we receive the communication.

INSURANCE Versiliana Viaggi di Vita Toscana S.r.l. in its role of Organizer is covered by Civil Liability insurance stipulated with ALLIANZ S.P.A., Policy n. 253058621T. We recommend that you stipulate additional insurance to cover costs of cancellation, baggage losses or damages, as well as medical or repatriation costs in case of accidents or illness.

ENTIRE CONTRACT Bookings are subject to your acceptance of the Contract Terms and Conditions for Travel Packages, copy of which will be sent to you at the time of booking. For Complete Terms and Conditions: https://www.thatstuscany.com/terms-conditions/

DATA PROTECTION In order to process bookings, send a brochure/program or respond to an enquiry we, in our role of the Organizer need to collect personal data from, the Client. Depending on what’s required, the collection of personal data may include names, contact details, credit/ debit cards, or other payment information, and special requirements such as those relating to any disability or medical condition and any dietary restriction, etc.(“sensitive personal data”). Any personal data will be used by the Organizer, or his collaborators for administrative or organizational reasons only and will not be disclosed to any additional third parties, unless necessary for the correct execution of the contract, administrative or legal obligations. Personal data are necessary for the correct contract execution. The Client is entitled to exercise restraints to this paragraph (ex art 7. Legislative Decree 196/2003) in writing before the start of the services to the responsible of Data protection procedures at: Versiliana Viaggi di Vita Toscana S.r.l Via P.E. Barsanti 63-65 55045 Pietrasanta (LU) – Italy E-mail: [email protected]