After a couple of days sightseeing, pizza eating, gelato consuming and walking, it was time to get back on the bike! We’ll miss Florence but it’s time to get the show on the road! Here is Dad and me setting off on our latest expedition.

We had perfect weather for our ride today- lots of sun and a light wind. Our first task was to climb up a narrow road through rows of olive trees. It was a steep road so the perfect heartbeat raiser to kick off proceedings. The road was well paved and quiet. After 15minutes of climbing, we reached the top (see below).

Well, we thought it was the top. The rest of the ride seemed like one long hill! We cycled through a lovely town with narrow streets and colourful buildings. Dad stopped to pick up some bread- a Bath to Rome staple (see photos below).

Back in the countryside, we were treated to more hills and stunning scenery. The Chianti region is famous for its wine so we passed numerous vineyards and farms. Looking out in the distance, there were countless valleys with grapes growing on them.

The roads continued to climb uphill- I had to get my head down and go for it. We were treated to a short downhill but this didn’t last long. We cycled over one pass that was 748m and according to the map we were close to the campsite. As we turned the final corner, we were faced with a long steep piece of road- classic stuff. This final hill took our elevation gain to 1300m- one of the highest on the trip. We only cycled 37km so I was tired afterwards. My legs will be stiff tonight. Well played to Dad- he did a great job with the climbs!

I would rank this ride as one of my favourites despite the hills. The Tuscan scenery was fantastic and the roads were very quiet. It’s a lot more enjoyable cycling without cars and trucks whistling by your ears! More of the same tomorrow please(minus mountains!!).