The overview
One beautiful country, two ways to see it
The beauty of the country will be a lasting memory, from the food to the sights. Starting on the Adriatic east coast we'll take you across the rolling Apennines, through the stunning city of Florence, across the plains of the River Arno, past Pisa's famous tower and celebrate your arrival at the Tirrenia coast in the east. From sea to sea, enjoy the glory of Italy - you just need to choose how fast you'll do it!
Whichever ride you choose, fly into Bologna and out from Pisa. We'll transfer you and your luggage from/to each airport. If you choose coast to coast over three days, there's also an option for us to collect and return your bikes and luggage from / to
the UK.
Chase the Sun - coast to coast in one day
Depart from Pantani’s hometown of Cesenatico on the Adriatic sea, to reach the Tirrenia coast, east to west, from sunshine to sunset. The most romantic long-distance cycling challenge, climbing mountains, through vineyards and vistas, 280+ kilometers and 3300m elevation.
Coast to coast - three days
Take the time to savour the country, it's stunning scenery, beautiful food and cycling heritage.
Day 1 depart from Rimini and recreate the 2019 Giro d'Italia time trial to San Marino. After San Marino we follow stage 1 of the 2024 Tour de France (albeit in reverse!) all the way to Florence. We'll overnight in the spa town of Bagno di Romagno nestled in the Apennine hills where you can take advantage of the spa facilities before an evening meal in a beautiful converted chapel.
Day 2 enjoy the stunning green hills, dotted with red roof tiles as we conclude the bulk of the Apennine climbs. Still following the 2024 Grand Depart your lunch will be served at the exact same spot that the first King of the Mountain's points were awarded. Then descend into the stunning Medici city of Florence entering across the Ponte Vecchio with time to explore the sights of the city before enjoying the wonderful Tuscan cuisine.
Day 3 has a different character as cross the plains shaped by the River Arno, with the option of a last climb for your own KoM points, the route will take past Pisa's famous leaning tower and then out to the Tirennian coast at the Marina de Pisa, before turning back inland for a gentle ride back to Pisa and more of that delicious Tuscan cuisine.
The routes
View all of the routes on Ride with GPS - here
Chase the Sun - 277km, 2,397m
Chase the Sun with optional final climb - 282km, 2924m
Coast to Coast day 1
Rimini to Bagno di Romagno via San Marino - 113km, 2,408m
Coast to Coast day 2
Bagno di Romagno to Florence - 119km, 1,769m
Coast to Coast day 3
Florence to Marina di Pisa,m via Pisa - 140km, 1,480m