Following the walking route, a really short stage with great views and gravel tracks. A couple of really steep off-road climbs. Spoiled somewhat by the busy roads and tourist hordes of San Gimignano.

• 15.74km, 52% off-road, 391m climb

• 1h 49m moving, 5h 00m elapsed

• Sunny, 29°C average, 35°C max

Highlights

• The lovely lady at the B&B really wanted us to experience her breakfast so she talked us into a “late breakfast”. It truly was a great breakfast but even though we only had 18km to cycle it was probably a mistake since the day was already heating up by the time we got on the road.

• After a very short distance on the road to start the day you’re on some great gravel tracks yet again.

• We stopped briefly at the Monastero di Cellole which was nicely shaded in the trees. The kids could relax whilst we took a very short tour of the church and shop.

• Great views coming into San Gimignano. The town itself is amazing with its tower houses. We walked up the main street and had lunch in the main square, Piazza della Cisterna.

• We stayed out of town because we kind of knew what the town would be like; and since we were arriving early we found a hotel with a pool and an early check in: Hotel Sovestro. We stayed in the annex just over the road from the main hotel and the rooms were amazing: very modern and supremely comfortable beds. 

• The hotel restaurant was closed that night, but we couldn’t face walking up the hill to San Gimignano and its tourist crowds. But the hotel thoughtfully does snacks which turned out to be some excellent pizzas and sandwiches: for us that’s as good as it gets. Really recommend this hotel.

Lowlights

• The roads coming into San Gimignano were really unpleasant for cyclists. It was especially difficult cycling with children as we’re often going quite slow; the drivers are generally very impatient. Italy, if you’re going to attract cyclists you’re going to have to do better with the roads.

• San Gimignano was a hell hole of a tourist trap. If you’re not happy with hordes of people then avoid this place in high summer.