Bike & Boat Filling FastSecure your cabin now
Duration
8 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights 3-4 star hotels
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$1950USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: UMS

Trip highlights


  • Cycling through the superb countryside of Umbria including Lake Trasimeno
  • Experiencing the fabulous hill top towns of Perugia, Assisi and Spoleto en route
  • Shopping for regional specialties such as Perugina Chocolates, Deruta ceramics and leather handbags in the markets of Florence.
  • Enjoying the fantastic cuisine of the region
  • Exploring the renowned cities of Rome and Florence

A cycle journey through the 'green heart' of Italy, from the enchanting city of Florence to the nation's capital Rome. The contrasts are very noticeable as you leave behind Tuscany and arrive in the peaceful and mystical Umbria. As you cycle approximately 290km you will see cities like Assisi, Perugia, Spoleto and Terni, displaying an incredible wealth of art treasures, which take their visitors back to the Middle Ages. The cities have barely changed over the centuries and the rolling landscape dotted with vineyards and hilltop towns will give you an appreciation of why the area is so popular with painters. On mostly backroads the route winds through the valleys of the Apennines and gentle hills near to Trasimeno Lake. At the end, the Eternal City of Rome awaits you, a fitting end to this exhilarating Italian journey by bike.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Arrive Florence. On arrival at the hotel you will receive tour documentation including your train ticket to Arezzo. There will be a tour briefing and bike handover. In the afternoon and evening you are free to explore this beautiful city.

Meals:  Nil

In the morning, you will take the train to Arezzo with your bike (ticket included). Take some time to explore Arezzo's splendid churches and palaces then set off, ideally by mid morning, along beautiful trails through the wide plain of Val di Chiana and accompanied by the hilly silhouettes of southern Tuscany. You will pass Cortona and continue to Lake Trasimeno, the battlefield where Hannibal fought the Romans. You can enjoy wonderful views of the lake, taking time to read the information boards depicting the history of the famous battle. Continue to Passignano sul Trasimeno and onto your hotel.

Meals:  B

Today you cycle along the lake to Torricella, then continue along small and secluded lanes through wide fields of sunflowers and local crops, rolling hills and idyllic villages to Perugia. Here you can wander through the old centre, appreciating impressive buildings such as the San Lorenzo Cathedral, Palazzo dei Priori and the Arco Etrusco. In addition to being famous for its Perugina Baci chocolates, this is a university town and each year thousands of people come to learn Italian at the ‘Universita per Stranieri’ or University for Foreigners. The city mascot is the griffin, which can be seen in the form of plaques and statues on buildings around the city. There is much to see in the Umbrian capital.

Meals:  B

Departing through the old stone gates of Perugia at the southern end, you can see the route to Assisi. Cross the Tiber river, pass the beautiful sanctuary Santa Maria dei Angeli and up to picturesque Assisi, birthplace of St Francis. There's time to explore the Basilica of St Francesco containing Giotto's frescoes depicting the Saint's life, the Temple of Minerva, the Rocca Maggiore or one of the many other interesting sites this UNESCO listed town has to offer. Couple this with a relaxing coffee or aperitivo in the Piazza del Comune and you have the ingredients of a splendid afternoon or evening. Overnight Assisi.

Meals:  B

Cycle along the flanks of Subasio mountain, passing medieval monuments and vestiges of Roman days en route to the medieval town of Spello. Continue through the Valle Umbra to Spoleto. The towns of Montefalco, Trevi and Campello can be seen on the surrounding hills. Visit an 80m high aqueduct for stunning views of the Tessino Canyon, Mount Luco and the Rocca Albornoziana Fortress. Spoleto's annual Festival of the Two Worlds, including performances of dance, prose and lyrics, is between the end of June and middle of July. Overnight Spoleto.

Meals:  B

Cycling between mountains and through stunning landscapes you reach Terni. The town was heavily bombed during World War II and now has a more modern feel, although the old town centre still has some impressive monuments including the Church of St Francis. The route continues to Narni, another authentically preserved medieval hilltop city with inspiring views of the Nera river. If time allows, explore the Rocca Albornoz fortress that dominates the town and the historical centre including the Duomo, Roman-Gothic churches and Priori public square. Beneath St Dominic’s monastery is the underground of Narni with its ornate frescoes - well worth a visit. The town history also suggests links with the “Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis. Overnight in Narni.

Meals:  B

The route out of Narni takes you through pleasant agricultural countryside where small homesteads dot the terrain. It is quite hilly in this section via Calvi, with the final leg being a freewheeling experience from Casperia to the train station of Poggio Mirteto. The bike support vehicle awaits you here, where your bikes are returned, in readiness for the hour long train journey to Rome. Leave behind the tranquility of the Umbrian countryside to enter the vibrant capital, with its countless museums, galleries, churches and ancient monuments. It’s an exciting end to a glorious week of cycling through the peaceful Umbrian hills. Overnight Rome.

Meals:  B

Arrangements conclude after breakfast. Extra nights can be organised in Rome on request.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 7 breakfasts – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea and juices.
  • 7 nights accommodation in 3 to 4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Bicycle, 21 or 7 speed with pannier and bicycle insurance for theft/damage (27 speed superior bike and e-bike available - supplement applies)
  • Welcome briefing
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and useful information (printed documents must be requested at time of booking - no additional charge applies)
  • Train tickets Florence to Arezzo and Poggio Mirteto to Rome
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Florence and from Rome
  • Lunches, dinners and drinks daily
  • Helmet - Available to purchase locally, must prebook
  • Excess luggage
  • Storage of luggage and parking
  • Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Transfers not mentioned in the program
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Entrance fees
  • Hotel taxes (payable locally - allow €10-15 )
  • Paper documents (can be provided at the joining hotel, on request at time of booking)
  • We recommend bringing a handlebar phone holder - to follow the route more easily using the app
  • Items of a personal nature

Accommodation


Bike information


Trail Surface


Grading

moderate  

GRADE 3 - This trip involves 6 days cycling usually along backroads and roads with minimal car traffic (although some short distances will be on main roads). The stages range from 30-60km/18.5-37mi per day. The whole route is hilly overall, with flat sections in between. From Florence to Assisi the terrain is mostly flat, and stages after become undulating. There are fascinating stages along the banks of the Trasimeno Lake, along rivers and through the untainted Umbrian landscape. Care is required when changing surfaces - some sections may be on gravel which requires extra attention when cycling and on steep sections - these are usually short. *For safety reasons, we insist that a helmet is worn during the cycle stages although it is not a legal requirement in Italy.


Departure dates

Every Saturday from 5 Apr to 28 Jun and 23 Aug to 11 Oct

Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
Note:
Mid season 19 Apr - 9 May & 6 - 26 Sep. High season 10 May - 28 Jun & 23 Aug - 5 Sep. Supplement applies.
Note:
This trip can easily be combined with our 'Venice to Florence Cycle'.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1950USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Superior 'plus' bike supplement (mens frame only)USD$90
  • E-bike supplementUSD$220
  • Single supplementUSD$530
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Videos

Florence to Rome by Bike | Italy Cycling Tours | UTracks
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips