Day 1 – Bologna to Radda in Chianti

With everyone having arrived the previous afternoon in Bolognawe are ready to hit the road south for the Chianti region. Departing Bologna, we pass the Ducati factory, avoid the motorways and follow the SR/SP65 road south to Florence.

Along the way we will traverse the, ever popular amongst motorcyclists, Raticosa and Futa passes. Used during the glory days of the Mille Miglia, the Futa and Raticosa passes in Italy offer some of the most stunning driving roads in Italy. We also have the opportunity for a quick visit to the Mugello circuit along the way.

Visiting the center of Florence (capital of the Tuscany region) for lunch we take a couple of hours to explore its beauty. Florence’s museums, palaces, and churches house some of the greatest artistic treasures in the world.

Departing Florence, we follow the ‘Chianti Road’, regarded by many as Tuscany’s finest driving route, south through one of Italy’s most prized regions – renowned worldwide for its vineyards. Along the way we pass through some beautiful villages such as Greve in Chianti – an old town with a Franciscan Monastery and annual wine festival!

Our destination, Radda in Chianti, is a beautiful medieval town enclosed in large defensive walls. Located up on a hill between the valleys of Arbia and Pesa – it has ancient origins. Its stone facadesadd to the medieval look characterized by narrow streets and tower buildings.

It is no wonder that Radda served as the capital of Chianti; its prime position served as a point of coordination between its neighbors Gaiole and Castellina. The picturesque panorama, the small town feel, a calendar rich with cultural events and the natural flavors of the land make Raddaa destination that should always be part of an itinerary in Chianti.

Day 2 & 3 – Chianti & Tuscany

Based in Radda for 2 nights allows us ample opportunity to explore the town and region in great detail. There’s lots to see and do both on and off the bikes whether it’s a short visit to one of the neighbouring villages, the town of Siena, or a vineyard tour!

optional ride out, heading south east, incorporates some of the most picturesque rolling countryside, that Tuscany is famed for, intertwined with great roads and lots of coffee stops along the route. With wine tasting planned for the afternoon.

With careful research we have selected the family owned Cantalici Winery. Founded by the Cantalici brothers Carlo and Daniele in the mid-nineties who, until then, had worked in forestry with their father Loris, tending the woods that alternate with vineyards on the sweetly sloping Tuscan hills. In 1995 when Carlo and Daniele decided to specialize in wine growing techniques.Their service company was quickly to become a reference point for wine-growers in the area. Today, it continues to grow, and cater to an ever-growing number of clients who request their skills in creating olive groves and vineyards, with services ranging from vine spacing and exposure to actual planting. The growing consensus encouraged Carlo and Daniele to set up their own winery, putting their years of experience in the field to work for themselves. They saw it as a chance to create a product that would reflect all their love and talent for winemaking.

These were the beginnings of the Cantalici Winery, a dynamic new company that planted its first vines in 1999 and is already a member of the Chianti Classico Consortium.ques.

Their service company was quickly to become a reference point for wine-growers in the area. Today, it continues to grow, and cater to an ever growing number of clients who request their skills in creating olive groves and vineyards, with services ranging from vine spacing and exposure to actual planting.

The growing consensus encouraged Carlo and Daniele to set up their own winery, putting their years of experience in the field to work for themselves. They saw it as a chance to create a product that would reflect all their love and talent for winemaking.

These were the beginnings of the Cantalici Winery, a dynamic new company that planted its first vines in 1999 and is already a member of the Chianti Classico Consortium.

Their service company was quickly to become a reference point for wine-growers in the area. Today, it continues to grow, and cater to an ever growing number of clients who request their skills in creating olive groves and vineyards, with services ranging from vine spacing and exposure to actual planting.

The growing consensus encouraged Carlo and Daniele to set up their own winery, putting their years of experience in the field to work for themselves. They saw it as a chance to create a product that would reflect all their love and talent for winemaking.

These were the beginnings of the Cantalici Winery, a dynamic new company that planted its first vines in 1999 and is already a member of the Chianti Classico Consortium.

Day 4 – Chianti to Livorno

Departing the Chianti region, we turn west in search of the coast and our gateway to the Island of Corsica. Meandering cross country we travel through more spectacular countryside with coffee and lunch stops in San Gimignano and Volterra before arriving at the port city of Livorno.

San Gimignanois famous for its fascinating medieval architecture and towers that rise above of all the other buildings offering an impressive view of thesurrounding valley. At the height of its glory, San Gimignano’s patrician families had built around 72 tower-houses as symbols of their wealth and power. Although only 14 have survived, San Gimignano still retains its feudal atmosphere and appearance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, San Gimignano offers visitors the chance to step back in time while enjoying its local products including saffron and its white wine, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano

Our next stop along the route is the charming town of Volterra with an unmistakable Medieval character, where the atmosphere of an ancient village can still be felt and whose authenticity is protected by the relative isolation that has limited the development of the city center in the industrial era, safeguarding the city from urban speculation.

Livorno is one of the most important cities in Italy and is the capital of the Province of Livorno. Its main source of economy is its huge port and Livorno indeed has the third largest port in the country. Furthermore, its port plays host to a variety of cruise ships that dock and offer their guests a chance to see mainland Italy. Although many people pass through Livorno to get to Pisa, it is a fantastic destination in its own right and has a great deal of historical sites and beautiful coastline that are waiting to be explored.

Day 5 – Livorno to Calvi

With an early start we catch the ferry to Bastia on the French Island of Corsica. The ferry crossing takes four hours and we arrive on the Island hungry for good roads and spectacular coastal scenery. Turning right out of Bastia we head north to explore the many picturesque fishing villages along the Cape Corse peninsula with stunning coastlinebefore meandering our way across the top of the island to our destination at Calvi.

Located on the northwest coast of Corsica Calvi is known for its beaches and crescent-shaped bay. A medieval citadel overlooks the marina from the bay’s western end, and is home to Baroque St-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and cobbled streets. Restaurants line the harbour on the Quai Landry esplanade. Perched on a high hill a short distance inland, the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra has panoramic views of the area.

Day 6 –  Calvi to Porto.

With an option for a late departure we have lots of route options on offer today as we traverse what we consider the most beautiful part of the Island along stunning coastal roads, over mountains and through gorges. It’s worth taking the time to enjoy and really soak it all up.

Day 7 –  Porto to Bonifacio.

An excellent days biking is in store with a mix of everything as we continue our journey south to the southernmost point of Corsica at the town of Bonifacio. The first part of the day starts off with very scenic coastline which reduces our average speed but then opens up in the afternoon to fast flowing pristine roads.

Bonifacio is known for its lively marina and medieval cliff top citadel. The 13th-century Bastion de l’Etendard houses a small museum with exhibits on the town’s history. L’Escalier du Roi d’Aragon is 187 ancient steps carved into the cliff face. To the southeast, the uninhabited Lavezzi Islands nature reserve boasts granite boulders and sandy beaches.

Day 8 – Rest Day in Bonifacio

A perfect location for a rest day – there is lots to see and do in Bonifacio and the surrounding area. For anyone keen on biking there is the option of a quick visit to neighbouring Sardinia located only 11km (1 hour) away by ferry.

“The marina, citadel, old town and the views across the harbour and surrounding cliffs are the individual highlights of Bonifacio – but it is the atmosphere and Mediterranean ambiance that will stay longest in your memory…

Day 9 – Bonifacio to Corte

Leaving Bonifacio behind we travel north along the eastern coast of Corsica a short distance to the town of Porto Vecchio before turning inland to climb into the rural mountains for a cross country route north to our destination in the Gorges de la Restonica located just to the south of Corte. Along the way we will share the road with the infamous wild pigs that roam the countryside and keep us focused on the road ahead. 

Day 10 – Corte to Pisa

With two routes on offer we can head direct to Bastia for our midday ferry back to Italy or take a longer more scenic route via Saint Florent.

Arriving in Livorno it’s a short distance to our hotel in Pisa where we have the evening to explore the town and to check if the tower is still standing…

Day 11 – Pisa to Bologna

As it’s our last day it’s a leisurely run to Bologna with an option for a late departure. Of course, there are longer routes on offer providing excellent biking for those who simply can’t get enough!

Day 12 – Bologna 

An opportunity to relax or explore Bologna before the evening flight back to Ireland. Our hotel is trategically located near the Ducati Factory & Museum for those with a taste for exotic Italian motorcycles. 

Please note this is an outline route and may be subject to change. We will be providing a detailed itinerary pre-departure to include all hotel info and points of interest.

Hotels

As with all our guided tours we carefully select very good standard 3 or 4* hotels. Over the years we have built up a vast selection of tried and tested hotels around the world and we select hotels for their character and service rather than just on their star rating.  Hotel standards vary all over the world and a 4* in Africa or South America is not always the same as in Europe. In some more remote locations, we may use equivalent 3* hotels or the best available in the area, which could be a more family run establishment, with local character.

Included:

• Return transport of your motorcycle from our base in Gorey, Co. Wexford Bologna, Italy with option to return from Memmingen, Germany
• B&B accommodation in quality 3-4 star hotels.
• Half board on all riding days. 
• Tour guide(s)
• Detailed route maps / itinerary etc. allowing some self-guiding if preferred.
• Return ferry to / from Corsica

Not Included

• Any travel costs to get to the start and from the finish point for the tour.
• Personal travel, accident and medical insurance (covering matters such as medical expenses, repatriation, cancellation, curtailment, loss or damage to property)
• Motorcycle insurance cover, motorcycle breakdown cover or recovery costs
• Entrance fees to sights and parks, optional local excursions or local activities, (except where stated)
• Lunches or snacks (except where stated). Any meals whilst on board ferries. Evening meals on rest/optional ride out days.
• Personal spending money, tips, souvenirs or other extras.
• Personal documentation (eg visas, passport), vaccinations, personal taxes, border crossing fees, motorcycle documentation
• Costs of motorcycle repair (parts, labour or other related costs), tyres
• Fuel, oil & other motorcycle consumables
• Toll road fees, traffic fines or other charges relating to breach of the law
• Any other item not specifically included in the price.

Pre trip we provide you with Tour Specific Information that gives you detailed information about how to prepare and plan your tour, and what to expect when on tour.  These are a few FAQ that many people have. If you have any further queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.

What bike is suitable to bring?
Generally speaking we recommend adventure or touring style motorcycles as the most suitable.  However, sports, sport-touring and cruiser motorcycles may also be suitable subject to you being comfortable riding it for the distance and duration of the tour and that it has been properly prepared and adequately serviced with good tyres.

What riding experience do I need?
Generally speaking we recommend all participants to be experienced tourers in Europe and/or beyond. Obviously, some destinations are easier than others, as classified by our difficulty ratings, and should you have concerns please do not hesitate to contact us. It is your responsibility to ensure your motorcycling skills are up to the requirements for this tour. Obviously advanced riding skills increase enjoyment factor and reduce risk.

Do I have to ride in a group?
No!  We do not make you ride in convoy and we offer you the freedom to decide how you would like to ride. However, we find most people prefer to ride with the group without the need to navigate. We use either the ‘drop off’ or ‘buddy’ systems when group riding (depending on country and complexity of navigation); these are tried and tested systems of group riding and allow riders to ride at their own pace. Full details are provided at pre-trip briefings. Daily departure times are set every evening for the following morning depending on the days route and points of interest. If you prefer to ride on your own, we provide you with a map and route cards with recommendations for lunch or coffee stops and hotel information. We offer a very flexible approach with an emphasis on maximum enjoyment.

Is this ride suitable for a passenger?
Yes. Pillion passengers should be experienced tourers / travellers. 

What is the average group size?
Our groups are normally between 8 – 14 riders (some riders will have passengers). Most riders are from the Ireland, but we do also have overseas riders who may take part.

What flights should i book?

Please contact us for suggested flight paths, times and airlines.

What documents do I need?
You will need your original documents as follows: 

• Passport and Driving Licence.  Passengers only need their passport.  As a general rule, passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the tour; however, this may be shorter in some European countries. 
• If you are bringing your own motorcycle, you will also need your motorcycle registration document (RF101 / log book) and your motorcycle insurance.
• In addition, you must have valid travel/medical insurance.
• Visas as required Please ensure that you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements and that you allow adequate time to obtain them.

What will the weather be like?

Depending on season / time of year we will advise expected weather conditions in the pre-trip information and also suggest the most suitable gear based on our experience. It is imperative that tour participants have suitably adequate gear. Please note our tour calendar is carefully planned taking into account the most suitable seasons / local weather for the destination. However, as much as we would like, we cannot always guarantee the best weather. Particularly considering the un-predictable climates the world has been experiencing.

What about my health when I am abroad?
You need to be physically fit and healthy and also take the necessary health precautions.  It is essential for you to consult your doctor or travel clinic for up-to-date medical travel information prior of travel, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Please ensure that you are fully aware of all official travel advice, local customs, current affairs, travel requirements and medical/travel advice. Please check with your GP regarding recommended inoculations. 

Do I need Travel / Medical Insurance?
It is a condition of you travelling with us that you are adequately insured.  Your insurance policy must cover you for the costs of any medical expenses, medical treatment or repatriation needed, due to injury or illness on this trip, including those that occur whilst motorcycle touring, either as the rider or a passenger.  It is important that your insurance company understands that the main purpose of your trip is motorcycle touring, using your own large capacity cc motorcycle or a rental motorcycle.  Your insurance must cover you for the full duration of the trip and for all countries we travel through.

In addition, we strongly recommend that your insurance policy has cover for loss or damage to your personal belongings, delay at your outward or homeward point of departure, personal liability, overseas legal expenses and cancellation and curtailment. We do not refund your deposit simply because you failed to take out insurance in sufficient time. Some travel insurance policies do not cover motorcycle travel over a certain cc or for a prolonged duration.

Minimum Numbers
We require a minimum number of 8 riders on this tour.  If we do not have this number of bookings, then we reserve the right to cancel the tour.

Booking:

• Overlanders may accept a booking online, via telephone or by email. To confirm a booking a deposit is required – once the deposit is received the booking is confirmed.

Payments & Fees:

• A deposit is required at time of booking.
• Guided tours – 50% required at least 60 days prior to the shipment / travel date.
• All payments must be made in full at least 30 days prior to the shipment / travel date.

Cancellation/Amendments/Refund Policy:

• Please note that all payments and deposits are non refundable nor transferrable if cancellation accrues within one month before the shipment / tour date.
• Where possible we will try to accommodate any amendments you wish to make.
• In the event of curtailment no refunds shall be made.
• Refunds may be processed via the original method of payment, except for cash transactions where refunds will be provided by cheque.

Preparation for Shipping (if applicable)

• All rider/pillion gear including boots and helmets should be packed into a kit/sports bag and labelled with the owners name, bike make/model and registration. One kit bag permitted per person.
  • Please note loose items or items tied onto the motorcycle will not be transported.
  • Bin liners, rubbish bags, cardboard boxes etc are not acceptable.
• Motorcycles should be in a clean and presentable condition both for outbound and return shipments. If your motorcycle is considerably dirty post trip please wash it before returning it.
• All Luggage (hard and soft panniers) should be left unlocked and removable from the motorcycle if necessary for transport purposes.
• Alarms should be switched off or in “Ferry” mode for transport purposes.
• Fuel level should be kept relatively low. All our depots are within a few km of fuel stations.
• Keys for both the motorcycle and luggage should be left with the motorcycle.
• At handover we will require a signed customs declaration form and a photocopy of the registration document / log book stapled together. Customs declaration from will be emailed pre-shipment. These should only be handed over in hard copy at time of delivery.
  • Do not email copies in advance.
  • We will not accept original copies of registration documents/log books.