Staying in Tuscany vacation homes is a luxurious way to experience Italy's beautiful landscapes. This home to the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance is known for its artistic influence on culture, through its vast number of museums and galleries. It also boasts some of Italy's best vineyards, producing quality Chiantis and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, among others. Arezzo in particular is a city steeped in historical significance, sitting in the southeast end of Tuscany. Its landscapes are best viewed via hiking and cycling. And there are definitely some great trails near your vacation home. Book one close to the best trails and you'll have easy access to this most unique way to experience Tuscany in all its glory.
Cycling
Because Tuscany is such a hilly region, it's great for cycling. This is no cake walk by any means, so you'd better come prepared by renting or buying all the appropriate equipment. If you're in tip top shape, you'll do great. Many trails and bike paths are challenging, with meandering hilly routes, but a good amount are do-able by just about anybody. The best time to go bicycling is in the spring, between March and June, and in the fall during September and October. The other months are simply too hot or too cold to enjoy the surrounding sights. But cycling enthusiasts can be seen on the paths year round through their intense dedication to the sport.
There are several bike routes to choose from in the Arezzo area, such as Arezzo to Cortona, Patrignone Circuit, Patrignone to Sansepolcro, Arezzo to Firenze, and Sentiero della Bonifica. Come up with your own custom trip, whether it lasts a few hours or a day or two. Choosing a Tuscany vacation home close to popular or off the beaten path trails will give you an advantage. Get up and go, hitting the trails early for a full day of fun. Rent bikes, take a guided bike tour or even try electric bikes for a new adventure.
Hiking
Hiking trails abound here in Arezzo and surrounding Tuscany. Be sure to get the proper maps and plan out your hike accordingly. This means bringing enough water, wearing sun screen and donning the appropriate safety gear. Many of the bigger hiking trails will have some sort of information booth where maps and other tools can be obtained. Consider a day hike to Monte Forato in Tuscany's Garfagnana area, within Apuan Alps park. It's easy to map out the hikes you want, whether you want to combine a few routes, or choose one long one. You'll also want to choose between guided and self-guided tours.
You'll find hiking maps within books and on the Internet, plus you can usually obtain maps in the cities you're staying in. Take an elaborate eight-day grand tour through the Val d'Orcia, visiting charming towns like Pienza and Montepulciano. Or, stay local and check out trails right near your vacation home for half-day or full-day hikes at your leisure. Vamoose can help you find that perfect Tuscany rental by spelling it all out for you. Use the search feature to narrow down the field by number of bedrooms, amenities, price and location. Now take a hike!