No other Italian region attracts more travelers from all over the world like magical Tuscany. However off the tourist paths you find a dreamlike paradise like the Etruscan Riviera - an insider's tip amongst the connoisseurs of Italy: wide and fine sandy beaches, azure blue sea, endless pine woods and hills with olive trees contrast  with historic towns and medieval small villages. And don't forget the remains of the Etruscan civilization, which you will meet at every turn.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Livorno: Individual arrival in Livorno (train station Livorno or airport Pisa approx. 15 min by train, parking area at the hotel)

Day 2: Livorno - Vada/Cecina (approx. 40-47 km/25-29 miles). Livorno, the old seafarer town with its mighty renaissance fortress is the start of today's stretch to the Monte Nero, from where you will have a fantastic view over the Thyrrenian sea (transfer for the ascent). On quiet side streets you cycle over Rosignano Marittimo to Vada or Marina di Cecina.

Day 3: Vada/Cecina - San Vincenzo (approx. 44 km/28 miles). You cycle along the wine route of the Etruscan Riviera, through pine woods and along never ending sandy beaches to reach the well known resort village of San Vincenzo. On the way, make sure to stop and visit the medieval village of Bolgheri.

Day 4: San Vincenzo - Follonica (approx. 58 km/36 miles). Today you cycle through fruit and vegetable plantations and the fertile plain of the Còrnia. Along the sea side promenade you reach Follonica. An alternative route (somewhat longer) takes you to the Gulf of Baratti and the Etruscan city of Populonia, where we recommend that you visit the Archaeological Park.

Day 5: Follonica - Castiglione della Pescaia (approx. 60 km/38 miles). Enjoy the romantic cliffs on your way to Punta Ala. Cycling inland you will reach the picturesque fishing village Castiglione della Pescaia with its charming medieval center. In spite of a steep uphill ride, we also recommend a side trip to Vetulonia for a magnificent view of the the whole Maremma region.

Day 6: Castiglione della Pescaia - Grosseto (approx. 46 km/29 miles). The pine woods of the Maremma will give you shade on your tour along the coast of the Thyrrenian sea until you reach Grosseto, the lively capital of the province. But you shouldn't miss to visit the imposing archeological excavation of the Etruscans, which are nearby. Really impressive is the wall of Cyclops, which surrounds the whole city.

Day 7: Grosseto - Talamone/surroundings (approx. 25-50 km/16-31 miles). Another highlight of your bike tour will be the National Park of the Maremma with its unique fauna and flora. The quiet fishing village of Talamone, with its stunning view of Monte Argentario, is tonight's destination. Optional transfer by train or bus to the silver mountain, Monte Argentario.

Day 8: Individual departure from Talamone.

Level: Moderate over flat or slightly hilly terrain. Most cycling is on side roads with a little traffic and some cycle paths, although traffic cannot be avoided when going in and out of cities. There are some gravel roads on Day 5. For the experienced biker, there is the option of some challenging roads in hilly terrain.

Prices & Departures for 2005

Available April 16-June 26 & September 10-October 23	8D/7N Every Sat & Sun
Per Person in Double	$800
Per Person in Single	$955
Per Person in Triple	$775
Bike rental (21-speed)	$80
Extra Night Livorno or Orbetello/surroundings	Includes breakfast, VAT
Per Person in Double	$85
Per Person in Single	$120
Per Person in Triple	$80

(Subject to change)