Tuscany & Umbria: The Towns We Visit
One of the greatest aspects of our Italy Bicycling Adventure is the number of fun towns we visit. Most have Etruscan (pre-Roman) roots, a Roman history, and many Medieval buildings. Following are some of those towns
Siena - Siena is one of Italy's most famous and enticing cities. Formally founded in the 1st century BC as a Roman military town, the site was probably originally settled by the pre-Roman Etruscans. Siena's fame came from its position in the 12th century as one of Italy's powerful city-states, often in conflict with neighboring Florence. Now, the city inspires awe with its Medieval architecture, huge central square (el Campo), and protective walls.
Montalcino - Another town that appears straight out from the middle ages, this lovely town sits on top of a hill and commands a view over the Tuscan countryside. Montalcino boasts of a fantastic central walking district and a castle which is our place for Introductions and bike fitting. Montalcino is famous for its wine.
Pienza - Our home for the first two nights, Pienza is another Medieval town situated on a hilltop. Centered in the middle of the wine country, Pienza is actually known for its local cheeses. The town has a fantastic rampart that looks over the valley and makes for a nice evening walk.
Montepulciano - Another Tuscan wine town, Montepulciano is also an excellent place for shopping and browsing. The winding, small streets are mostly closed to cars and invite a stroll through town, a stop for gelato (Italian ice cream), or souvenir shopping.
Perugia - Perugia is a city of 150,000 and is one of Italy's best preserved historic hill towns. Boasting two universities, a storied past full of Roman and Catholic church intrigues, and a fantastic centro historico, we spend half a day here to enjoy it fully. The best thing is that we shuttle up to the top of Perugia and ride our bikes down!
Spello - Spello is a typical Umbrian town located on the edge of Mount Subasio and looking over the Umbria Valley. The town is surrounded by middle-aged protective walls and our hotel here sits on top of the town with views of the Umbrian countryside from every window.
Assisi - Assisi is known mostly for its famous son, Saint Francis of Assisi. However, the stunning hilltop town has excited visitors since its Roman beginnings. Even with its masses of tourists, Assisi is a fun town that is well worth a morning to explore.
Spoleto - Spoleto is perhaps the most "real" town we visit on the Adventure. While still boasting Roman ruins, city walls, and winding streets, Spoleto also seems to be a real home to the Italians who live there. It is a town with which you can fall in love. We spend our last night in Spoleto - unless you decide to stay!