Squame Adventure Club: Our Trip to the Tuscany Trail
No matter how many times you visit it, Tuscany surprises you as if it were always the first.
We returned to the Tuscany Trail after two years. Our first trip was in 2022, and many things have changed, evolved, and adapted to the circumstances. One thing, however, has always remained the same: the desire to work hard, explore, and laugh together. Every Squame Adventure Club trip brings with it a halo of memorable memories and experiences, which further strengthen our bond.
Day 1: Donoratico - Castelnuovo (Montalcino) 185km 2000m+
We set off at dawn from Donoratico. The first few kilometers flew by: our legs were rested, and the bike, still clean, glided silently over the terrain. The trail ran along the Tuscan coast southward, reaching Follonica and Punta Ala, where the trail opened out to the sea, offering us an unforgettable view.
After a summery taste of beaches and coastal views, the tour led us inland. Rolling hills replaced the pine forests and sand, vineyards, and endless dirt roads soothed the soul, weary from the miles and the elevation gain that began to pile up, one climb at a time.
At the end of a long climb, we finally reached Castelnuovo, a quaint village just above Montalcino. Even before reaching the hotel, we checked in at the inn where we'd be staying for the evening, checking out the food available and enjoying an ice-cold beer, essential for physical and mental recovery.
We arrived earlier than expected, so there was time to wash clothes, relax, and enjoy a wonderful evening with friends.
Day 2: Castelnuovo (Montalcino) - San Gimignano 155km 2900m+
The sun rose over the hill, washing away the night's humidity. It was 6:00 a.m., and we were already ready to saddle up and begin the adventure again. The uphill start required our legs to warm up before we could reach the right pace. However, the sight of the hills bathed in the golden morning light gratified both spirit and body.
We quickly pass Montalcino, continuing the ups and downs of the magnificent Tuscan dirt roads. We knew this stage would feature significant elevation gain, and the key was to not push it, proceeding at our own pace and absorbing the essence of the Tuscany Trail, a fantastic adventure through places renowned throughout the world for their beauty.
After a quick stop in Buonconvento, we continued straight to Siena, aiming to arrive in time for lunch and take advantage of the break to visit the city. Unfortunately, once we entered the city walls for a few obligatory photos in Piazza del Campo, the sky quickly changed color, and rain clouds quickly arrived.
We set off abruptly through rain and hail. Some stopped, hoping for a break, while others continued undaunted, fueled by the desire to reach their destination. Fortunately, after the severe storm, the sun returned. About 50 km from Siena, we glimpsed the towers of San Gimignano on the horizon. The final climb would take us to the foot of the city, and this stage too was over.
We arrived exhausted by fatigue and adverse weather, but despite this we did not miss out on a dinner with characteristic Tuscan flavors.
Day 3: San Gimignano - Donoratico 120km 2000m+
As always, the last stage is the most challenging. Don't get carried away by the certainty of having already made it; the desire to complete the tour pushes you to pedal harder, regardless of the fatigue of the previous days. We say goodbye to San Gimignano as we descend from the fortified city, and the climb is not long in coming. The elevation gain on this stage is concentrated entirely in the first section of the route, up to Rosignano Marittimo, where we would see the sea again, savoring our finish line in anticipation.
The climbs we faced were probably the toughest of the entire trip, with gradients nearly tipping over and rocky roads that forced us to concentrate on moving forward in the saddle. Once we reached Rosignano, we began to relax, proceeding steadily toward Cecina. Trails nestled in relaxing pine forests sheltered us from the high sun, and at times the pine forest opened onto the sea like beautiful colored windows.
One last climb up the hills of Bolgheri, dotted with prestigious vineyards, and finally Donoratico: Tuscany Trail concluded!
Our Tuscany Trail trip was much more than just a cycling event; it was a life experience, filled with friendship, sharing, and discovery. We laughed, sweated, explored, and, above all, lived every moment with intensity and joy. These days will remain in our hearts as one of the most beautiful chapters of our two-wheeled adventures. Thanks to all the participants, see you next time!
Text: Fabio Conti
Photo: Andrea Pialorsi @andre_pialo
