TUSCANY 2014 FALL CYCLING TRIP
TUSCANY word / photos by Scott Murison
A life-long love affair with adventure has lead me to cycling in distant lands. I think both Kieran I have shared the same drive to explore and have expressed it in many ways over the years. 20 years ago we were teaching rock climbing and leading mountaineering trips. A decade ago we were teaching kayaking and paddling all over Canada, the US and even spent a couple of fall seasons whitewater kayaking in Nepal. After spending almost 2 decades scaring the crap out of ourselves doing things that pushed the envelope and looked to maybe shorten our lifespans considerably our focus has turned to cycling.
Cycling is a fantastic way to manage your personal demons, push yourself if you wish, socialize, explore and see the world. Like paddling a river you never know what is around the corner. Like mountaineering you can go for a nice solo or social ride akin to a stroll in the mountains or you can tackle a route that will test your stamina, fortitude and willpower much like climbing some overhung, ice covered north facing slope on a savage mountain. I like both. This fall Kieran and I found ourselves in Tuscany enjoying the incredible variety of joys cycling offers. In early June this year Kieran crashed racing his bike and broke his femur. He was flat on his back for over 8 weeks. He just started walking with a cane and crutches 2 weeks before we departed. Another gentleman with us is a cancer survivor and has a couple of artificial joints; one of which was causing him some angst and discomfort to say the least. Thrown in to this mix were middle aged life-long athletes with many Iron Man finishes amongst them and another gaggle of middle aged cyclists who were relatively new to cycling. A diverse group of characters to say the least. It is trips like this that solidify my love affair with cycling. With a back drop of Tuscan scenery this group woke each morning to challenge themselves in their own unique ways. For some the challenge was to get off the hamster wheel of life and slow down and soak in the serene ambience that the Tuscan hills offer. Enjoy the smells of freshly crushed grapes as we ride past a vineyard during harvest or stop for a nice light lunch in a small villa instead of slamming back a Powerbar. For others the terrain and routes provided a physical and mental challenge. With the aid of a couple pedal assist bikes our groups were able to ride together and take on challenges that provided all with a sense of accomplishment,
the flush of endorphins and the feeling of health at the end of the day despite the different experience levels and health issues. Being part of a trip like this is an incredible experience. To see Kieran, who weeks ago was unable to walk, glide up a hill with what appeared to be ease was amazing. To be around someone in their mid-70’s who embraces setbacks and challenges with joie de vie was inspiring. To see the look on someone’s face when they see a Tuscan sunset while enjoying a fabulous wine was rewarding in itself. The bicycle seems to be a great equalizer. I enjoyed my rides that puttered through the countryside drinking in the sights as much as I enjoyed charging up a hill at full flight listening to my breathing and the breathing of others reach a crescendo of huffing. This year’s Tuscan Adventure enjoyed exceptional weather. We stayed in a peaceful, remote and gorgeous Villa in Castelevecchi near Radda in Chianti. This was an exceptional peaceful retreat. First buildings were erected in 1000AD. It has been a working vineyard since the 1400’s. Its courtyard was perfect for recounting our day’s adventures over their fine Viscene Chianti. Our second stay was in the pre-Etruscan town of San Gimignano. This walled city is car free so is great for walking about and exploring the shops, cafes, museums and many artist galleries. The hustle and bustle of this town contrasted in a pleasing way to our stay at the country villa. I know the reason I keep exploring and hoping others join in our adventures is I have never come back less inspired; I always come back more inspired to embrace life, people and challenges. Nothing provides clarity to your priorities like the simple life of riding a bicycle, eating and sleeping. learn about all our trips www.wildrock.net/2015trips