| The Tuscan Archipelago is actually a string of | | | | The coastal areas offer a range of aquatic |
| seven islands, including Capraia, Gorgona, Giglio, | | | | diversions from scuba diving and sailing to catching |
| Montecristo, Pianosa, Giannutri and Elba all located | | | | a few rays on the beautiful beaches, a great |
| on the west coast of Italy. | | | | change from saddle sores and strained muscles |
| Elba is the largest in the string with a population of | | | | acquired climbing the interior mountains on your |
| about 38,000 people and easily accessible by | | | | bicycle tour. Italy is definitely not for the weak |
| ferry. It is a very busy touristy location not far | | | | hearted! |
| off the Tuscan coast with a cooler climate than | | | | There are also opportunities for horseback riding |
| central Italy, but with all the same dramatic | | | | in the interior although I'm not sure that helps the |
| volcanic cliffs, rugged landscapes and sandy | | | | rear. Guides are ready to take you on climbing |
| beaches. With a small data base of rental rooms | | | | expeditions or on challenging hikes if you decide to |
| and a large vacationing population, especially in the | | | | park your bike for a day. |
| peak European holiday season, it is a must to plan | | | | Elba is large enough to offer some challenging |
| ahead and avoid the panic of not finding suitable | | | | rides for a number of days, with the advantage |
| accommodation. | | | | of more mild summer temperature than that |
| On these islands bicycle tours, Italy style typically | | | | found on the mainland. But after that if your |
| takes you to the less trafficked west side of Elba | | | | agenda is not to sit and enjoy the beautiful |
| Island with climbs through the central volcanic | | | | weather and extended sandy beaches you may |
| mountains with the option of challenging the peak | | | | want to expand your geography to explore other |
| of Monte Pomone for the more aggressive riders. | | | | bicycle tours of Italy on the mainland, maybe the |
| Pizza's made in volcano heated ovens are one of | | | | Dolomite Mountains or Sicily a larger volcanic island |
| the key rewards for all your physical efforts. | | | | further south. |