Cycling and sailing in Tuscany: the perfect holidays exist

Mountain biking or sailing? Why settle for one when you can do both?

Imagine a holiday where you can combine the thrill of cycling and the tranquillity of the sea. Have you ever found yourself torn between the excitement of mountain biking and the calm of sailing? What if you didn’t have to choose? What if you could have adventure, relaxation, discovery, and indulgence – all in one unforgettable experience?

Our Tuscany Sail 'n Trails adventure makes it possible. We’ve reimagined the traditional MTB holiday. It’s a unique blend that combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to push your limits while immersing yourself in Tuscany's rich history and gastronomic treasures.

The Golden Rolling Hills

While Tuscany’s mountains are more modest than their imposing Alpine counterparts, their undulating trails are a mountain biker’s dream (especially on an e-bike). Less altitude doesn’t mean less fun—it means more laps.

Imagine winding through dense beech forests on a perfectly hand-shaped singletrack trail when suddenly panoramic indigo views pop in the background as you meander down to the beach where an Aperol Spritz awaits. That’s what the Dolce Vita is all about: balance.

More Than an E-MTB Holiday: A Cultural and Gastronomic Journey

Our journey begins in Piombino, home of the iconic Cavalleggeri trail, well-trodden by the Etruscan and Roman civilisations. As you ride, you’ll trace the steps of these ancient civilisations and connect with the past. But the adventure doesn’t stop there.

We’ll go to the heart of Tuscany’s buzzing mountain biking scene, from the legendary trails of Massa Marittima to the former mines and goat’s tracks on Elba Island. Each location offers a unique challenge and diverse terrains, from fast and fluid singletracks to rocky and technical descents, making every day on the bike a new adventure.

The Serenity of the Sea

But what if you could mix up the adrenaline of mountain biking with the calm of the Sea?

Picture this: after shredding up and down sun-baked coastal trails, you board a sailboat and set off into the blue towards Elba Island. The golden glow of the sunset warms your skin, the wind tousles your hair, and the crashing sound of the waves on the shore is the perfect soundtrack to your relaxing evening.

Sailing offers a different kind of thrill. It’s all about freedom, peace, and connection with the humbling Sea. As you sail across the sparkling waters, you’ll have time to let Tuscany’s beauty and Dolce Vita sink in. When you anchor in a secluded bay, you can dive into the crystal-clear waters, sit back, watch the sun melt into the horizon, and enjoy a glass of Tuscan wine.

It’s the perfect balance to the intensity of the mountains—a chance to unwind, recharge, and savour the simple pleasures of life by the sea.

A Journey of Discovery

Why choose between land and sea when you can have both? Our Tuscany Sail 'n Trail adventure is designed to give you the best of both worlds, but it’s about more than just the ride and the sail. This journey takes you deep into the heart of Tuscany’s rich culture and history.

Going from summit to sea, you’ll explore ancient Etruscan sites, wander through medieval towns, and experience the vibrant local culture that makes Tuscany unique. Whether you’re tasting wine at a family-run vineyard, enjoying a Tuscany wine tour, dining on fresh seafood by the sea, or staying in a traditional Agriturismo Tuscany, every moment is an opportunity to connect with the true essence of Tuscany and its hospitality.

Push Your Limits, Then Relax

This adventure is as much about challenging yourself as it is about relaxing and indulging in a rich culture. You can push your limits and test your skills on some of Tuscany’s iconic trails. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to mountain biking, our expert guides will challenge and support you, tailoring each ride to your skills.

And after pushing your limits, there’s nothing better than chilling. So what better than a peaceful sail? This isn’t just a holiday; it’s a chance to rejuvenate, find balance, and experience adventure and relaxation.

Tuscan Food (and Wine) with Love

No trip to Tuscany would be complete without indulging in the region’s flavorful delicacies and wine. Imagine dining in a rustic farmhouse where every meal is made from fresh, local ingredients paired with the perfect wine from the surrounding vineyards.

Tuscany holidays are synonymous with gastronomy, and this journey offers the best culinary experiences Tuscany has to offer.

You’ll explore Tuscany's culinary traditions, from hearty pasta dishes to fresh seafood, and discover why this region is a paradise for food lovers. With each meal, you’ll deepen your connection to the land, experiencing firsthand the passion and pride that go into every dish.

Tuscany wine tasting is not just an activity—it's a journey into the heart of what makes holidays in Tuscany so special.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Before you embark on this unique adventure, here’s what you can expect and how to prepare:

1. Getting Ready:

Fitness Level: While the e-MTB will assist with climbs, you should be prepared to ride up to 40 kilometres (about 25 miles) with some technical sections and climb about 1,200 meters daily. Prior experience on natural trails is required.

Technical Skills: You will need experience riding technical singletrack (with roots and rocks). Consider taking a skills class before the trip.

2. Gear and Equipment:

Bikes: We recommend an enduro-style e-MTB with at least a 600-watt battery. You can bring your bike, but travelling with an e-bike can prove difficult. We also offer high-end rentals (Swiss brand Flyer) to make your trip easier.

Essentials: Pack for both the trails and the sea. This means bringing gear for variable weather, including a light jacket for cooler evenings on the sailboat.

3. Where to Stay in Tuscany:

Tuscan Family-run Agriturismos: You’ll stay in traditional Tuscan farmhouses and enjoy home-cooked meals made from scratch from locally sourced ingredients. These accommodations offer an authentic taste of rural life in Tuscany.

Sailboat: You’ll also sleep on a sailboat. Be prepared for close quarters and bring layers for cool evenings on the water.

4. Cultural Immersion:

Tuscany Wine Tour:  Enjoy guided tastings at some of Tuscany’s most renowned wineries, where you’ll learn about the region’s wine-making traditions and sample world-class vintages.

Local Cuisine: Each meal is a journey into Tuscany’s culinary heritage (and the best way to discover a culture), from fresh seafood on the coast to hearty meals inland.

5. Mental Preparation:

Adventure Mindset: This trip is designed for those who love to explore, push boundaries, and embrace new experiences. Come with an open mind and ready to enjoy everything Tuscany offers.

Your Perfect Holiday, All in One

Why settle for the mountains or the sea when you can have both? Our Tuscany Sail 'n Trails adventure is the perfect holiday for those who want it all. It’s a chance to experience the thrill of mountain biking and the serenity of sailing while immersing yourself in Tuscany's rich culture and gastronomy.

This is more than just a holiday – it’s a journey that offers the best of adventure and relaxation, discovery and indulgence. Check out our departure dates here to join us. If you are looking for activities or things to do in Tuscany before or after your Sail 'n Trails adventure, check out our blog post about ten must-do activities in Tuscany. 

So why choose between the mountains and the sea when you can have both? Join us for the adventure of a lifetime and experience Tuscany like never before.