Bike Ride & WIne Tasting

Experience Lucca’s Countryside on a Bike with Wine Tasting

Starting from the charming city of Lucca, this 3-hour guided bike tour takes you out into the rolling hills of Tuscany to explore local vineyards and taste some of the region’s finest wines and oils. For $138.77 per person, you’ll spend time pedaling along flat terrain—making it accessible even for casual cyclists—and enjoying authentic family-run wineries. Led by personable guides, this experience offers a genuine taste of rural Tuscany, far from touristy spots but rich in flavor and scenery.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines beautiful vineyard vistas with meaningful storytelling about local wine and olive oil production. Alessandro, the guide we’ve heard so much about, is praised for his friendliness and insight—making the experience both educational and fun. Another highlight is the chance to walk through the vineyards, learn how wine and oil are made, and sample four glasses of local wine paired with a snack.

A few considerations: the tour involves cycling on mainly flat terrain, so it’s suitable for most riders, but you’ll need to rent a bike if you don’t bring your own. Also, the tour is limited to a small group of 12, which keeps things intimate but means booking well in advance is wise—most travelers book about 4 months ahead. Perfect for wine lovers, cycling enthusiasts, or anyone interested in authentic Tuscan culture, this tour offers a rewarding afternoon with a dash of adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visits to family-run wineries rich in tradition.
• Scenic Ride: Flat countryside cycling with stunning vineyard views.
• Quality Tastings: Four glasses of wine, oils, and a snack included.
• Expert Guidance: Alessandro’s friendly and informative approach.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 travelers for a personal experience.
• Flexible: Options for vegetarian/vegan meals and e-bike rentals available.

Exploring the Lucca Countryside by Bike and Taste

If you’re looking to combine physical activity with culinary delights, this bike and wine tour is a stellar choice. It’s more than just a tasting—it’s a chance to see and understand how this part of Tuscany produces some of Italy’s most beloved wines and oils. The journey begins in Lucca’s city center at Via Cesare Battisti, where you’ll meet your guide—Alessandro, a name frequently praised in reviews for his friendly demeanor and deep knowledge. From there, you’ll pedal out of the city and into the gentle hills, where the landscape is dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and farmhouses.

The Journey to Mutigliano

The first stop is at a local farm called Mutigliano, located at the foot of the hills. Here, you’ll get to see how olive oil and wine are made in a family-owned operation that respects the land and tradition. The farm doesn’t charge an entry fee, but what makes this stop special is the genuine connection to local producers and the respectful way they work with nature. The scenery alone makes the 2-hour ride worth it—think wide-open skies, lush fields, and quiet country lanes.

Visiting Azienda Valle del Sole

Next, you’ll head to the Azienda Agricola Valle del Sole, a family-run winery where you’ll walk through the vineyards and learn about the cultivation of grapes and olives. This visit feels personal—not a commercial tasting room but a real family operation. Here, you’ll taste four glasses of wine and oil, savor a snack, and hear stories about the land and the traditions that keep these products alive. One reviewer noted, “Vineyard and lunch were perfect, and we were the only people there at the time,” highlighting the intimate nature of this experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package provides the wine and oil tastings, the guide, and the visit to the vineyards. You will, however, need to rent your bicycle at the meeting point if you don’t have your own, which costs about €15 for a standard bike or €30 for an e-bike—e-bikes aren’t necessary as the terrain is flat, but they provide extra comfort if you prefer. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan accordingly for transportation. The maximum group size of 12 ensures everyone gets a relaxed, personalized experience.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviews mention how Alessandro’s expertise makes the experience stand out. One said, “Alessandro was so friendly and informative and had our safety as a priority,” emphasizing the professionalism and care that goes into the tour. The small group size also fosters a relaxed atmosphere where questions and conversations flow freely.

Considering the price, $138.77 per person, this isn’t just about tasting wine—it’s about enjoying the land, understanding the process, and enjoying a leisurely ride through scenic countryside. Compared to typical wine tastings, you’re getting a combination of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and authentic hospitality—all wrapped into one memorable outing.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, calling Alessandro “fabulous,” and mention how “the visit to the vineyard and lunch was perfect.” Others appreciated the stunning views, with descriptions of “lovely ride on mainly flat terrain,” and “beautiful vineyard vistas.” Several reviewers highlighted the good value, noting that the personal touch and quality of the experience surpass the cost.

One reviewer summarized it as “super,” and another said, “it’s totally worth it,” which reflects how many feel after completing the tour. The shared experiences—such as jumping into a river to cool off or stopping for a photo—add to the fun and authenticity of the day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Lucca

Your day begins at the meeting point on Via Cesare Battisti. Expect to meet your guide Alessandro, who is praised for his friendly, laid-back style and deep knowledge of the land. The group is kept small, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds—ideal for those who value intimacy and detailed storytelling.

The Bicycle Ride to Mutigliano

The first part of the tour is a scenic, mainly flat ride toward Mutigliano, which takes around two hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through quiet country lanes, vineyards, and olive groves. The ride itself is accessible for most riders, even those who aren’t regular cyclists, due to the flat terrain. If you rent a bike, the process is straightforward, and you’ll have plenty of chances to take photos or enjoy the scenery.

Mutigliano Farm Experience

At Mutigliano, you’ll experience a working farm that produces high-quality extra virgin olive oil and wine. Although the visit is free, what makes this stop meaningful is the chance to meet the producers and learn about their respectful approach to farming. Many reviews mention how the farm’s natural, sustainable practices add depth to the tasting experience.

Vineyard Walk at Valle del Sole

Next, you’ll visit Azienda Agricola Valle del Sole. Here, you walk through the vineyards, gaining insight into grape cultivation and winemaking. The tasting involves four glasses of wine, carefully paired with a snack, giving you plenty of time to savor the flavors and ask questions. The personal atmosphere—being the only guests at times—makes this stop stand out.

Return and Reflection

After the vineyard visit, you’ll cycle back to the meeting point. The entire trip, including stops, tasting, and riding, lasts about three hours. Many travelers find this duration ideal: enough time to enjoy the countryside without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Book in advance: Most travelers tend to book about 126 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.
• Bring your own bike or rent at the meeting point: Rental options are available at €15 for 3 hours or €30 for an e-bike.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Dress for cycling and bring sun protection—sunblock, sunglasses, hat—as much of the ride is outdoors.
• Bring cash or card: While tastings are included, additional purchases or tips might be appreciated.
• Consider dietary needs: Vegetarian or vegan options are available if you specify when booking.
• Weather awareness: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts wanting an authentic taste of Tuscany, outdoor lovers, and small-group travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect for those who enjoy moderate cycling and appreciate locally-made products. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of activity and culture will find this tour very rewarding. If you’re looking for a way to see the Tuscan countryside without strenuous effort or big crowds, this tour hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

This Bike Ride & Wine Tasting tour in Lucca offers a well-rounded glimpse into Tuscany’s agricultural traditions, with a personal touch from guides like Alessandro who truly care about sharing their land. The combination of scenic cycling, delicious tastings, and insider stories creates a memorable outing that’s both educational and fun. The small group size ensures a relaxed vibe and plenty of chances to ask questions or simply soak in the views.

For anyone seeking an authentic experience that balances activity, culture, and culinary delights, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid tourist traps and instead enjoy the slow pace and natural beauty of the Tuscan countryside. Whether you’re a wine lover or just looking for a unique way to explore Lucca’s surroundings, this guided ride is a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults 18 and over due to the wine tasting component, but the cycling and countryside experience are generally suitable for older children comfortable on bikes.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
You can rent a bicycle at the meeting point for €15 for 3 hours. E-bikes are available for €30 but are not necessary because the terrain is flat.

How long is the cycling portion?
The ride from Lucca to Mutigliano and back is about 2 hours, mainly on flat roads, making it accessible for most riders.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available if you advise at the time of booking.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for cycling, including suitable shoes, and bring sun protection as much of the tour takes place outdoors.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, a minimum of two people is required for booking, and the maximum is 12 travelers.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is your responsibility. Plan accordingly.

This guided bike and wine tour in Lucca offers a genuine taste of Tuscany, combining scenic beauty, local flavors, and expert storytelling—all in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s a perfect way to deepen your connection with this enchanting part of Italy and create memories that will last long after your visit.