Tuscany is a Cyclist's Paradise

5 Reasons to Cycle Tuscany

Tuscany is by far one of Italy’s most amazing destinations to visit. From breathtaking scenery to fine art and delectable cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this beloved region. And the landscape itself, with its rolling hills, peaceful coastline and winding mountain paths creates the perfect environment for cycling enthusiasts of any skill level.

There are countless reasons you should grab your bike and head to Tuscany, but here are 5 of the most compelling.

La Dolce Vita ("the sweet life")

If there’s one thing Italians know how to do it’s relax. For that very reason people from all over the world come to Italy, particularly Tuscany, to slow down and appreciate the finer things in life for a while. The Italian people are friendly, welcoming and love to socialize over food and fine wine. Mealtime in Italy typically lasts anywhere from one to three hours, during which time just about everything shuts down. A leisurely bike ride followed by a long, bountiful lunch is a typical day in Tuscany. It’s a real lesson in relaxation and an amazing experience – for Italians life truly is sweet.

Wine

Tuscany is perhaps best known for the incredible wines that are produced there. In particular, red wines such as Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino. There are also white wines and fine dessert wines produced in this region, which are sought after and enjoyed throughout the world. The Chianti region is classified as the world’s largest wine region and for good reason. Over eight million cases are produced there annually. The soil and climate in Tuscany create the perfect environment for growing high quality grapes. A visit here means a taste of some of the most exquisite fine wines on the planet, so take a break and enjoy.

Food

Eating in Italy is more than a way to get nourishment – it’s an art. Dining is a social event for the Italians, a chance to relax and enjoy one another’s company. And the food enjoyed there is nothing short of amazing. Tuscany in particular is home to such delightful treats as Pecorino (regional goat cheese) and a variety of meats such as wild boar, hares, deer and pheasant, all prepared with fresh local herbs and olive oil. It’s no wonder the people who live there take eating so seriously. Once you try the Tuscan cuisine, you’ll understand why eating is such an important part of the lives of those who live there.

Florence

A trip to Italy wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the city of Florence, home to what is widely considered some of the world’s most incredible works of art. History’s timeless treasures fill the museums, churches and palaces of the area. Additionally, Florence houses many beautifully designed buildings and ancient structures, such as the Baptistery, the Bargello, the Uffizi, the Accademia and the Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure that has towered over the city since the 13^th century. As a whole, Florence is easily considered the Capital of the Renaissance and of art in general. And the best part is it is perfectly situated for a stopover before or after cycling through Tuscany.

Cathedral of Santa Maria

Built on the site of the 7th century church of Santa Reparata, this massive structure designed by Arnolfo di Cambio still stands proudly overlooking the city of Florence. Its beautifully crafted dome, which was added during the 15th century, contributes to the wonder of the magnificent structure. Visitors can climb the 463 steps to the top, where they can experience the intricate artwork of Giorgio Vasari and a glimpse of Florence as seen from high atop the largest brick dome in the world. The Cathedral has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered an architectural masterpiece.

While just about any place in Italy could be considered a lovely place to visit, the region of Tuscany is arguably one of the country’s absolute finest. Whether it’s timeless art, beautiful scenery or delectable wine and cuisine you seek, Tuscany has something to offer just about anyone, particularly cycling enthusiasts. For the reasons listed here, and countless others that you’ll only discover by visiting there yourself, Tuscany is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

5 Reasons to Go Self Guided

Self Guided Travel Just Makes Sense

Whether it be for relaxation or wild adventure, traveling is good for the soul. There’s something about seeing new places, tasting unique dishes and experiencing different cultures that helps clear the mind and heighten the senses. One of the greatest ways to experience travel is the self-guided way. With affordable prices and a multitude of options, Pure Adventures offers sophisticated travelers flexibility, support and independence.

Still not convinced? Here are five compelling reasons to go self-guided on your next travel adventure.

1) Freedom and Control

Self-guided travel allows you to choose your own dates so that they fit with your busy schedule. You control your journey using GPS, maps, cue sheets and road books leaving plenty of room for adventure and excitement that comes with tackling the unknown. Self-guided travel also gives you the freedom to choose your own travel partners so you won’t find yourself stuck traveling with strangers.

2) Flexibility

Unlike traditional tours which are scheduled for a specified number of days and dictate when and where activities are to take place, self-guided travel provides much more flexibility. You choose the number of days, type of hotel (3, 4 or 5 star or any combination) and tackle activities at your own pace. Start when you want, finish when you’re ready, eat whenever you choose. If you decide you’d like to stay at a particular site a bit longer, no problem. There is also no risk of cancellation based on a minimum number of travelers not being reached. Self-guided travel lets you set the pace of your trip and make whatever changes you choose as you go.

3) Affordability

Self-guided travel allows you to experience many of the same things offered on guided tours but at much more reasonable prices. Prices typically include hotels, some meals, maps, travel/region information and luggage transfers and will vary based on the length of your trip and type of accommodations you choose. But because you aren’t relying on a travel guide, you’ll save a considerable amount of money in the end.

4) Support

Although you are very much in control of your trip, self-guided travel still provides a great deal of support. For instance, your luggage is always transferred to your next hotel for you so you don’t have to worry about dragging heavy bags around. You’ll also receive orientation before you set off on your journey, on call support and emergency assistance. So although you are independent, you’re never completely alone.

5) Cultural Immersion

One of the downsides to guided tours is that your experience with local culture is often cut short due to schedule and time constraints. Self-guided travel allows you to take your time and interact with the locals on a much more personal level. Many self-guided routes are specifically designed to bring travelers off the beaten path to small local towns and villages where the true culture and customs can be experienced and absorbed.

Guided tours are a wonderful way to see different places and experience new things, but many travelers feel restricted by set schedules and itineraries that they have no control over. Self-guided travel, more specifically Pure Adventures, provides a solution to this by allowing travelers the freedom to set their own schedule, plan their own journey and experience things at a pace they are comfortable with. And since self-guided tours offer the same quality, style, service and comforts of guided trips, travelers receive a complete and affordable vacation with the added benefits of freedom, flexibility, support and independence.

Nothing Beats Catalonia, Spain

5 Reasons to Cycle Catalonia

Catalonia, with its pristine beaches, warm climate and mountainous views, is arguably one of Spain’s most beautiful places to visit. Add to this its unique Mediterranean culture and delectable cuisine and it’s no surprise that Catalonia has become a premiere tourist destination. But Catalonia isn’t just a place to go for sun and relaxation. It’s also one of the most amazing places on earth to bicycle.

Here are five compelling reasons you should grab your bike and head to Catalonia.

· Barcelona

The capital of Catalonia, this city offers more than just the beautiful coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. It also boasts a variety of ancient architecture, such as that of famous designer Antonio Gaudi, who is responsible for several UNESCO heritage sites in Barcelona including the Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell, Palau Güell and Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Visitors will also enjoy the city’s Gothic Quarter, or Barrio Gòtico, one of Barcelona’s oldest areas. With medieval structures such as the Palau de la Generalitat, the Town Hall, the Cathedral, and the Palau Reial dating back further than the Roman Empire, visitors here get the unique experience of taking a virtual step back in time.

· Empuries

If ancient history and culture interests you, then a cycle through this quaint town should definitely be on your itinerary. This archeological site offers a fascinating glimpse back at the ancient Greeks and Romans who settled there centuries ago. With medieval ruins, a museum, breathtaking beaches on which to sunbathe, and beautiful coastline to cycle along there’s plenty to do and see.

· Catalan Culture

Much like Catalonia’s warm and pleasant climate, its people are just as welcoming. The culture there is completely different than that of other parts of Spain and can only be described as unique. For example, various festivals held throughout Catalonia often feature oddities like castells, which are basically human towers. Music and dance are an intricate and important part of Catalan culture, as is the combination of languages spoken there, which include Spanish, Catalan and Aranese. You really must experience the Catalan culture for yourself to truly understand.

· Girona

This historical city, located in Catalonia’s old Jewish sector, is lined with ancient alleys and multi-colored houses called Les Cases de L'onyar, which dot the river bank and give the city much of its character. Most notable is the city’s historical center, which is surrounded by the same thick walls that have protected it for centuries. The Onyar River divides Girona into two parts which are connected by four bridges. The Centre Bonastruca Porta (Museum of History of the Jews), located in the heart of Girona’s Jewish Quarter (El Call), offers guided tours and provides visitors with an excellent account of the people who inhabited the area before the 15^th Century, when the Jews were forced out by the Spanish monarchy.

· Weather and Landscape

There is so much to see and experience in Catalonia, but perhaps the simplest yet most compelling reason to cycle here is the very atmosphere itself. With comfortable temperatures and mild weather year-round, there’s never a bad time to visit. In fact, Catalonia is the choice of many pro cyclists because it offers the perfect weather in which to train. The landscape is also ideal, with a variety of options to suit any cycler’s needs. From the challenging Pyrenees hill climbs to the winding Mediterranean coastal roads, the environment is nothing less than perfect.

If its ancient history, rich culture and breathtaking landscapes you seek, Catalonia is the place to be. It’s certainly one of Spain’s greatest gems. And with its small winding roads, challenging terrain and miles of beautiful coastline it’s also a biker’s dream. For the reasons listed here, and countless others, Catalonia is a destination that should be on any cycling enthusiast’s travel itinerary.