By Ebike: Visit an Art Park and Wine Taste in the Classic Chianti

Exploring Tuscany’s famed Chianti region on an electric bike sounds like a dream, and this guided tour delivers just that — with a few unique twists. It combines scenic cycling through rolling hills, visits to hidden art installations, and indulgent wine tastings, all wrapped up in a five-hour adventure that balances activity and culture beautifully.

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on both the visual and gustatory delights of Chianti — from contemporary sculptures to perfectly paired wines. We especially appreciate the guides’ depth of knowledge and the carefully curated stops that reveal both the natural beauty and artistic soul of this iconic landscape.

One minor consideration is the tour’s pace; while most travelers will find it comfortably leisurely, those wanting a more intense cycling experience might find the 30-mile route a bit gentle. And, of course, this experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, cultural exploration, and wine appreciation — ideally those eager to go beyond the typical tourist trail.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan scenery with stunning views of Siena’s skyline and rolling vineyards.
• A blend of art and nature, with visits to sculpture parks and hidden artworks in the landscape.
• Wine tasting with local delicacies, offering a genuine taste of Chianti’s signature wines and regional cheeses.
• Expert guides from the National MTB Academy, knowledgeable about local history and the area’s secrets.
• Flexible group size, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Inclusion of helmets, insurance, and mechanical support adds peace of mind during the ride.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting in Siena and the Scenic Ride to Geggiano

Your adventure kicks off in Siena, a city famed for its medieval charm and narrow winding streets. The tour begins with a gentle bike ride out of Siena, taking you through charming landscapes en route to the village of Geggiano. This initial stretch lasts about an hour, giving you time to soak in views of Siena’s skyline and get accustomed to the e-bike.

The route is mostly on quiet roads, making it accessible even for those new to cycling or e-bikes. Our guide, a seasoned professional from the National MTB Academy, made sure everyone felt comfortable, sharing fascinating stories about Chianti’s history and the long rivalry between Siena and Florence.

Villa di Geggiano and the Significance of the Bianchi Bandinelli Family

Next, we paused at Villa di Geggiano, a picturesque hamlet with a historic castle. Here, we learned about the Bianchi Bandinelli family, who have managed this estate for generations, overseeing the production of Chianti Classico. The guide explained their influence on local viticulture and how they’ve preserved the area’s traditions.

From this vantage point, overlooking Siena’s skyline, it’s clear why this region’s landscapes are so storied. The photo opportunity here is excellent — the backdrop of rolling vineyards and historic architecture makes for memorable images.

Vallepicciola and the Gravel Roads of Chianti

The cycling then takes you into the heart of Chianti’s hilly terrain, where the landscape transforms into sweeping, vineyard-covered hills bordered by iconic cypress-lined roads. This section includes some of the gravel white roads that are famous for hosting the Eroica race — a highlight for cycling aficionados.

Along the way, you’ll pass Vallepicciola Winery, a site that hints at the quality of wines produced here. Stops for scenic photos and storytelling about the local castles help deepen your appreciation of the area’s historical and cultural fabric.

Art in the Landscape: Parco Sculture del Chianti

A real surprise is how art is woven into the landscape here. As we pedaled along, we encountered several hidden sculptures and installations strategically placed within the fields — a playful but meaningful prelude to the main event at the Chianti Sculpture Park.

At this dedicated park, you’ll have about an hour to explore up to 27 contemporary sculptures and installations. It’s genuinely engaging to see how modern art interacts with the natural environment, offering a fresh perspective on the region’s artistic side. Reviewers have noted that guides are well-versed in the artworks, adding context that enriches the experience.

Film Location and the Charm of Scopeto

Next, we visited the hamlet of Relais Borgo Scopeto, famous for being a filming location for “Letters to Juliet.” The guide shared stories about the film’s production and the scenic qualities of this quiet village. The brief stop here is perfect for photos and soaking up the Tuscan vibe.

Wine Tasting at Scopeto Winery

The highlight for many? The wine tasting at Scopeto Winery. Here, you’ll sample up to three glasses of Chianti Classico and other regional wines, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. The tasting lasts about an hour and a half, offering an authentic taste of the area’s viticultural excellence.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the wines and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. One reviewer mentioned, “Great day with fun and wine! Bikes were fun, and it was easier than we expected for a 30-mile trip. We’re 70 years old!” This highlights how accessible and enjoyable the experience is for a range of ages and fitness levels.

Return to Siena

After the wine, we cycle back toward Siena on quieter roads, descending through picturesque landscapes. The final hour wraps up the tour with relaxed riding, giving you time to reflect on your day. The guide shares additional tales and tips about Siena’s hidden corners, rounding off the journey on a high note.

What We Loved About This Tour

The Guided Knowledge — the guides from the National MTB Academy are well-versed, sharing stories that add depth to every stop. Their passion for the land and wine is contagious.

The Scenic Views — from Siena’s skyline to vineyard-covered hills and the art installations nestled in nature, the scenery truly captures the essence of Tuscany.

The Balance of Activities — this tour strikes a great mix of physical activity, cultural enrichment, and delicious tasting sessions, making it suitable for those who want variety without feeling rushed.

Authentic Wine Experience — tasting Chianti Classico paired with regional cheeses provides a genuine flavor of the local terroir, with generous pours and expert guidance.

Art and Culture — exploring sculptures and installations in the landscape enhances the experience beyond just riding bikes and drinking wine.

Small Group Size — with a maximum of 10 travelers, the atmosphere is intimate, allowing for personalized attention and lively conversations.

Things to Consider

While the tour is generally very accessible, it involves about 30 miles of cycling on a mix of paved and gravel roads. If you’re not comfortable with cycling or have mobility issues, this might be more challenging.

The tour is priced at around $280 per person, which covers guides, bike rental, insurance, wine tastings, and park admission. Considering the inclusions, this offers good value, especially for the quality of the experience, expert guiding, and gourmet tastings.

The timing is flexible, but be prepared for a leisurely pace with about 5 hours of activity. Weather can influence the experience — it’s best on dry, sunny days, so check the forecast before booking.

The Sum Up

This e-bike tour offers an authentic slice of Chianti, combining stunning landscapes, engaging art, and memorable wine tastings. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, cultural discovery, and gourmet indulgence, especially if you appreciate learning from passionate guides and exploring lesser-known spots.

If you’re after a relaxed, well-rounded experience that showcases both the natural beauty and artistry of Tuscany, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, and anyone eager to see a different side of Chianti beyond the vineyards.

For those seeking a fun, informative, and delicious day out in Tuscany, this tour delivers in every aspect — with plenty of opportunities to snap photos, taste local wines, and soak in the scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners or those who aren’t experienced cyclists?
Yes, the e-bikes make riding much easier, even for beginners or less experienced riders. Guides are attentive and ensure everyone feels comfortable throughout.

How long is the total cycling distance?
The route is approximately 30 miles, spread across the morning and afternoon segments, with some stops for sightseeing, photos, and tastings.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the tour package, along with mechanical support in case of bike issues.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. Non-alcoholic drinks are available for travelers under 21 or those who prefer not to drink alcohol.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers guided tour, bike rental, helmets, third-party liability insurance, wine tastings (up to three glasses), and local delicacies. Food and bottled water are not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to run smoothly. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This e-bike adventure through Chianti offers a harmonious blend of scenery, art, and wine that’s hard to beat for a day of authentic Tuscan discovery.