Alison's Guided Destination Ride from Lucca to Siena should be on every cyclist's bucket list. It offers challenges and rewards in equal measure, combining some testing climbs with several beautiful sweeping descents. As you ride, you are immersed in a countryside that continually presents you with striking vistas: vistas you will simply not see had you tried to plan this ride yourself. From early morning silhouettes of the mountains around Lucca, to almost aerial views of the golden fields of Tuscany, to the view of Siena on the last descent that you won't get on a normal approach road. That view provides great motivation for the final, unforgettable climb to the centre of Siena. Throughout the ride, Alison makes sure you ride at a tempo that ensures you complete the course, complementing her excellent advice to fit an 11/32 cassette and compact chainrings before you set off. Chapeau, Alison, on a truly memorable ride.

Photo credit: Alison Testroete.

Photo credit: Alison Testroete.

Riding the Strade Bianche (video speed x 2)

Coasting through Ghizzano (video speed x 2)

The final climb up Via Santa Caterina to the centre of Siena

Photo credit: Alison Testroete.

Here are the final metres of the climb on Google Street View.