2011年10月25日 星期二

Biking the Bridges of Florence

Tuscany is that famous region in the mid-western part of Italy. It sits on the Mediterranean and is bordered by Liguria, Lazio, Emilia-Romagna, Umbria, and Marche. With a population of about 3.75 million, its history-laden capital of Florence, and a wealth of vineyards, it is easy to see why families and groups flock there year round to stay in Chianti villas for rent. If you book a villa in the nearby rolling hills around Florence, why not rent bicycles and head into the city to see some of the sights on two wheels? If you're not that energetic, bikes can also be hired once you get into the city centre.
Bridge riding around Florence
In the excitement of booking your Chianti villas for rent, finalising your flight and packing, don't forget to throw in a comfortable pair of shoes and maybe even a helmet so you can enjoy a leisurely bike ride around Florence. Begin near the western end of the city and head over the Ponte Amerigo Vespucci towards the south side of the river Arno. Be sure to stop here and look downriver for a view of the next several bridges. Turn left and head to the next bridge, the Ponte alla Carraia. Cross and head right and move along towards one of the more famous bridges, the Ponte a Santa Trinita. From there, stop and enjoy the view of the Ponte Vecchio to the east.
Once you tire of looking at the Ponte Vecchio from a distance, turn left on the shore and begin to head towards it - but do be careful when riding amongst the traffic. The Ponte Vecchio is a must see landmark of Florence, and the hosts of many Chianti villas for rent will tell you to pay a visit to the 'golden bridge'. Once you arrive you will see why it has gained its name and reputation. Park your bike, lock it up, and simply wander in and out of the myriad tiny shops selling an array of sparkling golden jewellery. Whilst it is very busy, the surrounding buzz and ambience of buskers and street performers makes it a wonderful experience.
After you soak up the delights of the Ponte Vecchio, it's time for a little more strenuous exercise! Head to the north side of the river and turn right, crossing the Ponte alle Grazie. From here, make your way up the hill to the Piazza de Michelangelo - it can be hard going but it is not too far and the views are well worth the effort. Once you get to the top, stand at the edge of the piazza and have a look down at the row bridges that span the River Arno in stunning and elegant unison. Plan your day so you arrive there just before sunset and you will be in for a treat. After an easy coast back down the hill, you will be ready to return to your Chianti villas for rent for an evening meal - or a well-deserved rest!
Giovanni Balboni works for To Tuscany, who specialise in finding the perfect Chianti villas for rent as well as selected villas in Umbria and Puglia. To Tuscany is proud of their villas and their reputation. Each property is personally selected and visited by our representatives to ensure we offer only the best in the region.

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