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Duration
8 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights 3-4 star hotels
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$1920USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: VFC

Trip highlights


  • Cycling in the fascinating region of Emilia-Romagna
  • Experiencing the outstanding scenery and small villages en route
  • Sipping coffee (or something stronger) in a café in a village piazza
  • Enjoying the culinary specialties such as marinated sardines
  • Delighting in the warm hospitality of the hotel owners

Between the two romantic cities of Florence and Venice is the unknown Italy, where vineyards and endless sunflower fields merge with orchards and charming villages, where the river landscape has played an integral part in the regions history and local fisherman wave as you cycle past their pole-huts lining the canals. The relaxed cycle route winds away from Venice along the Adriatic coast, reminding you of the previously strong Venetian dominance over the seas. Taking in the artistic culture and historical legacies entwined in the region of Emilia-Romagna, where mosaics, ceramics and cuisine are some of the noted specialties, there are endless opportunities to stop and absorb the attractions. Interspersed with short train and ferry rides, the final stage to Florence is a fitting end to this engaging cycle journey.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

The trip begins at your hotel in Marghera/Mestre on the mainland near Venice. With good bus connections to the lagoon city, it is easy to venture on foot into the famous canal city from your hotel. Note that bikes (like cars) are not permitted in the canal city.

Meals:  Nil

This morning there's a welcome briefing then your cycle begins by crossing the Ponte della Libertà (or Freedom Bridge). Originally built in 1933 and opened by Mussolini, it was renamed after WWII to recognise the end of the Fascist dictatorship and Nazi occupation. The 3.85km bridge links Mestre with Venice and is the only vehicle access point to the canal city. Once in Venice, you take the ferry to Lido then cycle and take another ferry to Pellestrina, with marvellous views of the sea, and another to the small town of Chioggia. Chioggia has many fish restaurants, a market, and in the northern tip of town, some excellent (though decaying) waterfront palazzi which are reminiscent of those found in Venice. Overnight in Chioggia/Sottomarina. Cycling: completely flat route, three ferry crossings

Meals:  B

Today on quiet roads you cycle back to the Adige River. You'll follow the river through fertile fields, melon plantations and tranquil villages to Adria. Founded by the Etruscans because of its proximity to the Po & Adige rivers, Adria is a charming little town with branched channels, narrow streets, cosy cafés and friendly locals. Cycling: flat route along the river and small canals.

Meals:  B

This morning is an easy cycle along the Po River, as it winds its way through the fertile plain. One of its branches, the Po di Goro, will lead you through the delta towards the sea. There is time to swim in the Adriatic Sea before heading to the charming town of Comacchio. Magnificent palazzi, ornate churches and numerous bridges bear witness to the prosperity once gained by salt production in the area. Cycling: flat route

Meals:  B

The first half of today's tour is dedicated to the Nature Park of the Po Delta, with its unique flora and fauna. Riding along a dam you may see flamingos nesting nearby. After a short ferry ride (not included, allow EUR2pp subject to change) you will reach the Adriatic Sea. There are wide beaches on the way to enchanting Ravenna, once capital of the Roman Empire in the 5th century and then of Byzantine Italy until the 8th century. A harbour town with a long tradition of art and culture, Ravenna has appeared in famous works by Lord Byron (who lived here between 1819 and 1821), Oscar Wilde and the German poet Hermann Hesse and has a number of important UNESCO World Heritage listed sites to explore. Cycling: flat route

Meals:  B

Cycle to Faenza, famous for ceramics. The artisans will be happy to let you watch while they paint the artefacts. Continuing, you'll soon reach the foothills of the Apennines and a marked change in the scenery. Only a short distance remains to Brisighella, an idyllic medieval village where you stay overnight. Guarded by Rocca Veneziana and Torre dell'Orologio, you can enjoy a restful evening. Cycling: mainly flat route until Faenza, then a few gentle climbs. Leaving Ravenna there can be some road traffic for a short period.

Meals:  B

The day starts with a train ride through the wild mountains of the Apennines to Borgo San Lorenzo. Today has two climbs before you're rewarded with a fantastic descent via Fiesole to Florence, the historic capital of Tuscany! Cycling: a steep climb of approx 1.5km and a longer climb of approx 3km to be managed today, however the majority of the day is downhill. When arriving in Florence, expect some heavy traffic.

Meals:  B

Arrangements conclude after breakfast. Extra nights can be organised in Florence, or if you're keen for another adventure you can continue on our Florence to Rome by Bike.

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 in 3-4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • 21 or 7 speed bike rental with pannier and bike computer and bike 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)
  • 24hr ticket for public transport in Venice (bike is extra, allow €5/bike), Train fare Brisighella to Borgo San Lorenzo (including bike)
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Venice (Mestre/Marghera) and from Florence
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Ferry tickets for the bike on Venice ferries (as above) and to Marina di Ravenna - allow €5 pp including bike
  • Venice Municipality Access Fee: (approx. cost: 5€/day per person)
  • Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Helmet - Available to purchase locally, must prebook
  • Hotel taxes extra, payable locally - allow EUR10-15
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Excess luggage
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Optional transfer to Venice on day 8 by minibus - must be pre-booked and pre-paid. Please ask for our rates.
  • 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 - daily cycles of around 35 to 65km / 21.5 to 40.5mi. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a reasonable level of cycling fitness to participate fully in this adventure. The route is flat until Day 5. On the 6th day there are three to four easy hills. On the 7th day there are two short climbs and a long descent. You cycle on dykes, rural roads or solitary minor roads. Only very short distances are cycled on roads with more traffic. Mostly the cycling is on asphalted surfaces. You need only carry your camera and water bottle. Your luggage is transported for you between hotels. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.


Departure dates

Every Saturday from 5 Apr to 11 Oct

Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
DN1
High season is from 10 May to 5 Sep, Mid season is from 19 Apr to 9 May and 6 to 26 Sep. Supplement applies to high and mid season departures.

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

$1920USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Superior 'plus' bike supplement (mens frame only)USD$90
  • E-bike supplementUSD$220
  • Single supplementUSD$460
*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. 

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