Truffle trail between Gubbio and Pietralunga: an e-bike tour combining taste and history

The Truffle trail between Gubbio and Pietralunga offers an engaging e-bike adventure through the heart of central Italy’s Umbrian countryside. Priced at a reasonable price (not specified) and lasting about one day, this tour combines taste, history, and nature in a way that makes it stand out for those interested in cultural exploration with a physical challenge. Starting from the Gubbio Bike Shop at the coordinates 43.32984924316406, 12.60712718963623, it features a challenging route suitable for individuals with average training and an uphill elevation gain of approximately 850 meters.

This journey isn’t just about pedaling; it includes visits to castles, religious complexes, and historic residences along the way, with highlights like Carbonana Castle, Nogna Tower, Cortevecchio Castle, and the Madonna dei Rimedi Church. It provides a wonderful balance between scenic beauty and medieval architecture. Keep in mind that there is a section of approximately 3 km on state road, so some caution is advised. This tour suits adults with some cycling experience and those eager to explore upper Umbria’s truffle lands thoroughly.

Key Points

• Duration: About 1 day with a 20-minute bike ride included.
• Location: Starts at Gubbio Bike Shop in Gubbio and travels to Pietralunga.
• Highlights: Medieval castles, religious sites, and scenic landscapes of Umbria’s plains and hills.
• Physical level: Challenging route suitable for people with average training.
• Elevation gain: Approximately 850 meters uphill.
• Group size: Private group with a live English or Italian guide.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 16, or individuals with mobility, back, or heart problems.
• What to bring: Snacks, water, outdoor clothing, sports shoes, a charged smartphone, and ID.
• Cancellation policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Gubbio Bike Shop

The tour begins at the Gubbio Bike Shop, located in the town of Gubbio. This is where the bike rental and briefings happen before setting off. The shop is conveniently situated at the coordinates 43.3298, 12.6071, making it easy for participants to find and access. The initial 20-minute ride introduces you to the area’s gentle landscapes before hitting more challenging sections.

The shop is also the endpoint of the tour, where you return after exploring the scenic route. The private group setting ensures personalized attention from the live guide who speaks English and Italian.

The Scenic Route from Gubbio to Pietralunga

The bike route winds mostly on paved roads, connecting Gubbio with Pietralunga through a landscape of plains and hills. Riders encounter spectacular ridges, wooded roads, and views that showcase the variety of colors in the Umbrian landscape. The route offers delightful vistas that change with every turn, making the physical effort worthwhile for photo opportunities and nature appreciation.

While part of the route involves ascending about 850 meters, the challenging nature of the ride is tempered by spectacular scenery and the chance to explore medieval architecture along the way.

Stops and Architectural Gems Along the Trail

Throughout the ride, you’ll visit various historical sites that provide a glimpse into medieval and religious history. Notable stops include Carbonana Castle, Nogna Tower, and Cortevecchio Castle—each showcasing medieval construction and offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.

In Pietralunga, the Madonna dei Rimedi Church stands out as a religious highlight. Returning toward Gubbio, riders pass by the San Benedetto Vecchio Abbey, an ancient and majestic site that adds a sense of historical depth to the journey.

The Physical Challenge and Route Details

The tour’s route is mostly on paved roads, but some sections require careful riding. The uphill elevation gain of about 850 meters makes this tour suitable for cyclists with moderate fitness. Riders should be prepared for sections that require effort, especially on the inclines and the 3 km stretch on the state road.

Participants are advised to wear sports shoes and outdoor clothing, as well as bring snacks and water for energy. The challenging nature of the route means it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate to strenuous cycling.

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What to Expect for the Return and End of Tour

After exploring the medieval castles and religious buildings, riders head back to Gubbio. The return ride follows the same scenic route, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the landscape’s changing colors and rustic charm.

The end point is the same as the starting point, the Gubbio Bike Shop, where you can relax after the approximate 20-minute ride. The tour’s private group setting ensures a more intimate experience, with a guide available to answer questions in English or Italian.

Practical Information and Requirements

This e-bike tour requires participants to have a medical statement of fitness for non-competitive sports activity. It is not suitable for children under 16, or individuals with back, mobility, or heart problems. Riders over 6 ft 6 in (200 cm) or 275 lbs (125 kg) are advised against participation for safety reasons.

Participants should bring their ID, charged smartphone, medical statement, and outdoor clothing. The tour is flexible in cancellation: full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Upper Umbria

This e-bike adventure offers a unique combination of physical activity, cultural exploration, and scenic beauty. The focus on medieval architecture and religious sites makes it a good option for those interested in history, complemented by the lush landscape views typical of upper Umbria.

The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, and the live guide provides insights into the area’s history and landscape in both English and Italian. The challenge level and panoramic stops make this tour ideal for adventurous cyclists who enjoy learning while in motion.

The only notable limitation is the challenging route, which might not suit beginners or those with certain health issues. However, for active travelers with some cycling experience, this experience promises a rewarding taste of medieval Italy and nature’s beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 16 years due to the physical demands and route difficulty.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring snacks, water, outdoor clothing, sports shoes, a charged smartphone, and ID.

How difficult is the route?
The route is challenging, with an uphill elevation gain of about 850 meters, and requires average training.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the route safe?
Mostly on paved roads, but includes a section of approximately 3 km on state road, so caution is advised.

What are the stops along the way?
Stops include Carbonana Castle, Nogna Tower, Cortevecchio Castle, and Madonna dei Rimedi Church in Pietralunga, plus San Benedetto Vecchio Abbey on the return.

Are guides available in languages other than Italian?
Yes, the live guide speaks English and Italian.

What is the group size?
The tour is arranged for a private group, providing a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The data does not specify, but the tour covers bike rental, guide services, and visits to key sites.

Is prior cycling experience necessary?
Yes, the route’s physical demands mean some cycling experience is recommended for comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby