gastronomIC & CULTURAL DISCOVERY
CYCLING tour

BASQUE COUNTRY
Saint-Jean-de-Luz, FRANCE
4-11 september 2025

A breath of fresh air — ocean breeze and green hills in the historic cycling region split between Spain and France.

Here you’ll find stunning nature, a mild climate, and perfect roads. Basque gastronomy is rightfully world-famous. Picturesque Atlantic beaches offer summer enjoyment.

Luxurious resorts of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and San Sebastián await us, promising vibrant leisure and cultural experiences beyond training.

BEST IN CLASS EXPERIENCE:

ACCOMMODATION

We'll live in an Basque style villa in a quite place, meticulously recreated from a historical rural estate and offering modern comfort; every rider has his own fully equipped suite
GASTRONOMY

We are in the center of Basque coast which is great to indulge in what local cuisine has to offer - pintxos in San Sebastian, lobsters in Biarritz, oysters in Bayonne and much more; you are to enjoy one of the best food experiences in Europe - Basque restaurants consistently lead multiple global ratings
CYCLING

Ride through lush rolling hills on the French side or climb into pre-Perenees to the Spanich border - cycling is diverse in terms if difficulty and landscapes. Fully supported cycling - professional guide will ride with you ensuring any help you might need. E-Bike option is available. Support vehicle is there for you when you need it
ALL INCLUSIVE

Total peace of mind for you, as epico organised the entire trip end to end: airport pick up, accommodation, logistics and your cycling experience

ACCOMMODATION

We'll live in an a quite area not far from the coast of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, allowing us to both access best cycling routes and explore famous Basque resorts with their restaurants, promenades and architecture

MEALS

During your entire stay, our own chef will serve full-board meals for you

THE ESSENCE OF TUSCANY

SAN GIMINIANO

PROGRAM DAY BY DAY

ROUTE #1

HILLS & RIVERS OF THE BASQUE COUNTRY

Short option: 50 km / 600 m
Full option: 90 km / 1000 m

Starting off from the coast we ride up deeper in the country, up and down green hills dotted with red basque houses; roads along the rivers pass some narrow canyons and off-the-beaten track towns and places

ROUTE #2

BEST OF BASQUE COAST

Short option: 60 km / 700 m
Full option: 100 km / 1400 m

Arguably on the most scenic coastal roads in Europe, the stretch of ocean road between San Sebastian and Bilbao is truly a unique experience. Rolling up and down along the cliffs and beaches, passing through the eucalyptus forests and cozy fisherman's towns - a day in the saddle to remember.

ROUTE #3

SAN SEBASTIAN AND BACK

Short option: 40 km / 700 m
Full option: 80 km / 1300 m

A combo of Basque towns, countryside and some of the best views over the Atlantic one can get here - from the mountain ridge with unpronounceable name Jaizkibel .

We might ride to the San Sebastian bay for lunch and ride back or just call it a day and get home by car.

DAY 1 / SUNDAY

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes">AIRPORT TRANSFER, WELCOME GRIGLIATA & OPTIONAL WARM UP RIDE<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 300; font-size: 22px;">CASTELNUOVO BERARDENGA</span></div>

AIRPORT TRANSFER, WELCOME GRIGLIATA & OPTIONAL WARM UP RIDE

CASTELNUOVO BERARDENGA

After the airport pick up we'll have an hour drive to our villa in Chianti. You'll have time to settle down in your new home for this week and rest up. If time allows we will do a short warm-up ride.

In the evening we'll enjoy an Italian grigliata on the terrace overlooking the Tuscan hills.

DAY 2 / MONDAY

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CYCLING DAY 2:</span><br />INTO THE HEART OF CHIANTI<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 300; font-size: 22px;">RADDA IN CHIANTI</span></div>

CYCLING DAY 2:
INTO THE HEART OF CHIANTI

RADDA IN CHIANTI

The hilltop town of Radda in Chianti was once the Capital of the ‘Chianti League’. In a way, this is still true today as few towns in the Chianti can match Radda’s charming Medieval layout. And its expansive views over the vineyards are quite remarkable. In Radda, Chianti Classico wine is king, the ruling tipple in all the town’s rustic enoteche, gorgeous shops

OFF THE BIKE DAY 2:
CASTELLO DI BROLIO

WINE TASTING VISIT & SUNSET SPOTTING

Castello di Brolio is a magestic historic castle and winery owned by the Ricasoli family since 1141. It played a key role in Italian winemaking, as Baron Bettino Ricasoli developed the original Chianti formula in the 19th century.

The estate produces prestigious wines, particularly its flagship Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. We will visit the castle on the sunset and taste some fine wines.

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">OFF THE BIKE DAY 2:</span><br />CASTELLO DI BROLIO<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">WINE TASTING VISIT & SUNSET SPOTTING</span></div>

DAY 3 / TUESDAY

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CYCLING DAY 3:</span><br />STRADE BIANCHE & L'EROICA<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 300; font-size: 22px;">SAN GUSMÉ</span></div>

CYCLING DAY 3:
STRADE BIANCHE & L'EROICA

SAN GUSMÉ

Touching the legend! L’Eroica & Strade Bianche is a legendary cycling experience through Tuscany’s white gravel roads, evoking vintage charm and adventure. Riders embrace classic steel bikes, wool jerseys, and stunning Chianti landscapes. With challenging climbs, rustic refreshment stops, and a nostalgic spirit, it’s a celebration of cycling’s golden age and pure passion.

OFF THE BIKE DAY 3:
SIENNA

OLD TOWN & DINNER

Take a walk in Tuscany's gem - Siena. Indulge in cultural immersion through its medieval streets, stunning Piazza del Campo, and the majestic Duomo di Siena. Explore hidden alleys, historic palaces, and artisan shops. End with authentic Tuscan dining—pici pasta, wild boar, and Chianti wine—in a charming trattoria, embracing Siena’s timeless allure.

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">OFF THE BIKE DAY 3:</span><br />SIENNA<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">OLD TOWN & DINNER</span></div>

DAY 4 / WEDNESDAY

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CYCLING DAY 4:</span><br />MEDIEVAL MANHATTAN<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 300; font-size: 22px;">SAN GIMINIANO</span></div>

CYCLING DAY 4:
MEDIEVAL MANHATTAN

SAN GIMINIANO

Crossing through the Elsa Valley in a tough and hilly route. We will stop for a coffee in a historic Castello di Celsa and moving to the goal - the Tuscan iconic town of San Giminiano nicknamed the New Your of the Middle Ages for its towers.

OFF THE BIKE DAY 4:
PANZANO

FOR FOODIE'S & MEAT LOVERS

There’s a reason Panzano is one of Chianti’s most appreciated food capitals. The poet-butcher (TV celebrity) Dario Cecchini has his butcher shop here; a kind of Tuscan style fast food, done really well. Here you can have an incredible burger, or tuck into a juicy bistecca in front of an open fire. It’s the real thing. Meat lovers should visit Solociccia - the restaurant just in front of the shop.

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">OFF THE BIKE DAY 4:</span><br />PANZANO<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">FOR FOODIE'S & MEAT LOVERS</span></div>

DAY 5 / THURSDAY

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CYCLING DAY 5:</span><br />CHIANTI CLASSICO'S CAPITAL<br /><span style="font-weight: 400; font-size: 22px;">(OR OPTIONAL REST DAY)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">GREVE IN CHIANTI</span></div>

CYCLING DAY 5:
CHIANTI CLASSICO'S CAPITAL
(OR OPTIONAL REST DAY)

GREVE IN CHIANTI

Greve in Chianti is famous for its role as the gateway to Tuscany’s Chianti Classico wine region. It’s worth visiting for its charming Piazza Matteotti, surrounded by porticos, wine shops, and traditional markets. Greve’s relaxed atmosphere, rich history, and delicious local cuisine make it a perfect stop for wine lovers and travellers seeking some true Tuscan experience.

OFF THE BIKE DAY 5:
FLORENCE

NEVER LATE TOO LATE, NEVER ENOUGH

We are in an hour drive from Florence. Enough of reason to give a visit in your cycling rest day.

Florence is always worth revisiting for its timeless art, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Discover hidden gems, new exhibitions, authentic trattorias, and breathtaking sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo—each visit offers something new.

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">OFF THE BIKE DAY 5:</span><br />FLORENCE<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">NEVER LATE TOO LATE, NEVER ENOUGH</span></div>

DAY 6 / FRIDAY

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CYCLING DAY 6:</span><br />SOUTHERN TUSCANY CLASSICS<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">VAL D'ORCIA</span></div>

CYCLING DAY 6:
SOUTHERN TUSCANY CLASSICS

VAL D'ORCIA

You can't go cycling in Tuscany without visiting Val d'Orcia. Pedalling through rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and medieval towns is a total bliss.

We will ride a classic loop to see some of the most remarkable Southern Tuscany's towns and locations like Montalcino, San Quirico, Pienza, Montepulciano.

OFF THE BIKE DAY 6:
PIENZA

RENAISSANCE GEM & FOODIE'S PARADISE

Exploring Pienza offers a rich cultural and culinary experience. Designed by Pope Pius II, its Renaissance architecture and scenic streets exude history.

The town is famous for Pecorino di Pienza, a delicious aged sheep’s cheese, paired perfectly with local wines. Traditional trattorias serve authentic Tuscan flavors, making it a foodie’s paradise.

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">OFF THE BIKE DAY 6:</span><br />PIENZA<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 300; font-size: 22px;">RENAISSANCE GEM & FOODIE'S PARADISE</span></div>

DAY 7 / SATURDAY

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CYCLING DAY 7:</span><br />CHIANTI CLASSIC LOOP<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">CASTELLINA IN CHIANTI</span></div>

CYCLING DAY 7:
CHIANTI CLASSIC LOOP

CASTELLINA IN CHIANTI

Our final ride this time is another classic loop deep in the Chianti hills, to contemplate these idyllic view just one more time.

Castellina in Chianti will be our coffee stop location - one of the typical Tuscan towns that are so familiar to us by the end of the week.

OFF THE BIKE DAY 6:
FAREWELL DINNER

FLORENTINE STAKE PLEASE?

Tired of lot of cycling and even more exploration, full with impressions and Tuscan lifestyle - the week came to an end. We will have a farewell dinner at home to be more relaxed and have more time to chill out and then to pack our bags for tomorrow's departure.

<div style="font-size: 28px;" data-customstyle="yes"><span style="font-weight: 400;">OFF THE BIKE DAY 6:</span><br />FAREWELL DINNER<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 22px; font-weight: 300;">FLORENTINE STAKE PLEASE?</span></div>

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE

ACCOMMODATION: luxury villa where everyone has a separate suite
MEALS: our own chef makes sure your breakfasts, lunches and dinners are delicious and fulfilling
CYCLING: professional cycling guides (max 4 riders per each guide), support, sport nutrition
SIGHTSEEING: visiting the most important and beautiful towns and places, accompanied by professional guide
LOGISTICS: from the airport pickup to departure and everything in between, everything is taken care of for you

This Tuscany cycling & wine tour is an unbeatable combo of absolutely top gastronomic experience & gentle cycling touring. Fall in love with the Tuscany lifestyle and enjoy each ride as much as off-the-bike activities.

gastronomIC & CULTURAL DISCOVERYCYCLING tour BASQUE COUNTRYSaint-Jean-de-Luz, FRANCE4-11 september 2025

gastronomIC & CULTURAL DISCOVERY
CYCLING tour

BASQUE COUNTRY
Saint-Jean-de-Luz, FRANCE
4-11 september 2025