Eroica. Italian for heroic. There are many elements that
make for a memorable day on the bike- the weather; the roads;
your riding companions. Last year saw the first running of
the Monte Paschi Eroica professional race, ridden over the
classic gravel roads, or strade bianche, of the Chianti region,
made popular through L'Eroica, a cyclosportif event that
reaches back in time to recall the heroic days of cycling.
Elite Women's professional and Procycling magazine columnist
Olivia Gollan returns again in 2008 as your personal guide
for this tour through the heart and soul of Italy. From the
gloriously picturesque vineyards and backroads of Chianti,
to the undulating hills of the Crete Senesi, our L'Eroica
itinerary is the opportunity to ride the roads of yesterday
with a star of today.
EPIC CYCLING
Cycling the Tuscan countryside is a cyclist's dream- and
if you've ever dreamt of riding with a professional, then
this trip is made for the dreamers. With two rides offered
daily, this trip provides cyclists with an ideal choice of
terrain and distance. For those who dream of the glory days
of the past, there is the l'Eroica, a throwback ride taking
in the many gravel roads that still line the countryside.
You'll be surrounded by the stars of the sport, with professional
Olivia Gollan as your guide, and the opportunity to see the
Men's Professional race, the Monte Paschi Eroica, run over
the very same roads of l'Eroica.
"I thoroughly enjoyed working with Lisa and Peter last year,
and I'm looking forward to joining the trip again. I have
spent the past 5 years using Italy as my home for the European
racing season and I feel very fortunate to be a part of this
fabulous culture and share the Italian passion for the sport
of cycling," says Olivia. Past and present. Historic and
contemporary. All the elements are here for the trip
of a lifetime.
AUTHENTIC CULTURE
With a prestigious location amidst tranquil grounds just
outside Florence, our 5-star hotel sits at the base of the
Chianti hills, the perfect location to bring city and country
together. As Olivia notes "Tuscany is possibly the most picturesque
and culturally rich parts of Italy and to ride through the
hills with some new and interesting people - these are the
moments my sport is made of." Refined Tuscan cuisine
is surrounded by the gracefully decorated 14th century patrician
villa high above the village of Greve in Chianti. It's
harvest time in Tuscany, as the vineyards glisten with deep
ruby grape clusters, fall colors, and the aromas of cinghiale
and truffles fill the dining room.
EXEMPLARY SERVICE
Family is the key word in Italy, and Italians welcome you
with open arms- "I have lived in the relatively small town
of Novellara. My home is with a married couple that owns
the bike shop and living with them has given me a very unique
opportunity to experience Italian hospitality and love. I
am the adopted daughter who is cared for by the entire extended
family and their friends" shares Olivia. You will experience
a renaissance of your own at our unique and luxurious accommodations.
Relax in the pleasure of your surroundings and the company
of your special guest Olivia Gollan while enjoying the rare
opportunity to learn form an elite professional - from hillsides
to streetscapes, we will ensure your stay is truly memorable.
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