Italy’s Ride to Thrive Retreat

September 13th to 22nd, 2025

Explore the breathtaking regions of Umbria and Abruzzo on a transformative cycling journey designed to enhance performance, longevity, and well-being.

Dates

September 13th to 22nd, 2025

Activities

Biking

Activity Level

Benvenuti!

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Italy’s most captivating regions—Umbria, Abruzzo, and Chieti—that blends world-class cycling with a deeper connection to health, longevity, and the Italian way of life. Over nine days, ride through rolling vineyards and olive groves in the “green heart of Italy,” discover medieval hilltop towns like Assisi and Santo Stefano di Sessanio, and experience the tranquility of the Adriatic Coast. Each destination showcases Italy’s timeless beauty and offers a glimpse into a life attuned to nature, nourishment, and balance.

This is more than a cycling trip; it’s an immersion into Italy’s rich landscapes, culture, and traditions, paired with expert-led sessions on performance, nutrition, and mindset. Explore ancient Roman baths, savor thoughtfully prepared meals made from the freshest local ingredients, and embrace the slower pace of life that Italy inspires. With stunning rides, enriching experiences, and a renewed perspective on living a longer, stronger, and healthier life, this is the ultimate Italian adventure for those who seek transformation, inspiration, and a celebration of life’s simple joys.

**Due to the specific nature of this trip, participation is limited to a maximum of 12 people to ensure a more intimate and personalized experience. If you wish to bring a significant other who does not cycle, we can arrange tailored non-cycling activities for them to enjoy while you are riding.

Itinerary

Day 1

Benvenuto in Italia

Your journey begins in Rome, where you’ll be warmly greeted by your private driver for a scenic transfer to our private villa in Umbria. Along the way, we’ll stop at the enchanting Civita di Bagnoregio, a breathtaking medieval hilltop town known as the “dying city” due to its dramatic setting and rich history. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local flavors while soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Upon arrival at the villa, settle into your accommodations and prepare for the week ahead. Your bike will be professionally fitted by an expert fitter to ensure optimal comfort, confidence, and performance. For those eager to stretch their legs, an optional short ride will be available, or you can choose to relax by the pool and take in the serene ambiance of the villa. In the evening, gather with fellow participants for a delightful welcome dinner, where you’ll meet the guides and expert panel, setting the tone for the transformative journey ahead.

Benvenuto in Italia

Day 2

Giro di Montefalco: Nutrition and Performance Foundations

Begin your day with a guided session of meditation, yoga, and intention setting, led by our expert performance coaches, to prepare your body and mind for the day’s activities. After breakfast, embark on a scenic ride to Montefalco, a picturesque hilltop town renowned for its vineyards and olive groves. Known as the “Balcony of Umbria,” Montefalco offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the region’s vineyards and olive groves, reconnecting with the roots of the food you eat. Indulge in a lunch of seasonal, homemade Umbrian dishes, paired with a session on optimal performance nutrition to fuel your rides and improve recovery.

In the afternoon, return to the villa for a restorative yoga session to relax and recharge. Later, venture to the historic town of Spoleto, where Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influences come together in a stunning display of architecture and culture. Stroll through its charming streets and iconic landmarks before enjoying a delicious dinner in one of its renowned local restaurants. Conclude the day back at the villa, reflecting on the enriching experiences and preparing for the next adventure.

Giro di Montefalco: Nutrition and Performance Foundations

Day 3

Cycling to Assisi: Recovery as a Pillar of Performance

The day begins with a guided meditation and yoga session to prepare your body and mind for a ride focused on recovery, a vital component of performance. After breakfast, set out on a picturesque ride to the historic town of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of St. Francis. This scenic route provides the perfect balance of cycling challenge and serene landscapes as you approach this iconic hilltop town.

In Assisi, enjoy a luxurious lunch at Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum, followed by a rejuvenating soak in their ancient Roman baths, designed to enhance recovery and relaxation. Afterward, take a guided cultural walk through Assisi to discover its rich heritage and architectural beauty.

In the evening, return to the villa for a session with the expert panel focused on recovery strategies for performance and longevity, emphasizing the importance of rest and restoration in achieving peak results on and off the bike.

Cycling to Assisi: Recovery as a Pillar of Performance

Day 4

Lago Trasimeno: Strength and Community

Begin the day with a light strength warm-up to activate your body and prepare for a scenic ride to Lago Trasimeno, the largest lake in central Italy. This ride combines rolling terrain with stunning views, concluding in the lakeside town of Castiglione del Lago, where you’ll enjoy a lunch of fresh, regional dishes overlooking the water.

Return to the villa for an expert-led session on strength training and ride structuring, focusing on building power, preventing injury, and optimizing your performance for long-term health. Later, travel to Perugia, the capital of Umbria, renowned for its historic charm and lively atmosphere.

The evening concludes with a community dinner in Perugia at one of its celebrated local restaurants, joined by Italian friends. This meal highlights the importance of community as a foundation for longevity, fostering connection and meaningful conversations in a memorable setting.

Lago Trasimeno: Strength and Community

Day 5

Through Abruzzo: Exploration and Rest

Begin the day with a scenic transfer through the breathtaking landscapes of Abruzzo, a region known for its rugged mountains, medieval villages, and serene beauty. Our first stop is Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a charming medieval hamlet where time seems to stand still. Wander its historic streets and soak in the timeless atmosphere.

Next, we’ll visit Rocca Calascio, Italy’s tallest fortress and one of the world’s most beautiful castles, as named by National Geographic. The panoramic views from this iconic site are as inspiring as they are unforgettable.

For lunch, we’ll enjoy a unique experience at Ristoro Mucciante, a traditional Rostaccini restaurant set in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. Here, you’ll grill your own food in a relaxed and authentic dining setting that celebrates Abruzzese traditions.

The afternoon offers an optional short hike to explore the area’s natural beauty before we continue our journey south, arriving at a beautiful vineyard accommodation. Spend the evening unwinding in this tranquil setting, preparing for the adventures of the following day.

Through Abruzzo: Exploration and Rest

Day 6

Ride to the Adriatic Sea: Relaxation and Mindset

Start your day with a scenic ride from the vineyard accommodations to the stunning Adriatic Coast. This journey through rolling terrain and vibrant landscapes concludes with a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea—a perfect way to celebrate the ride.

Afterward, enjoy a leisurely seaside lunch featuring fresh, local flavors that highlight the region’s culinary traditions. The afternoon is spent exploring Pescara, a lively coastal city with charming streets and a relaxed ambiance. Stroll its waterfront promenades and take in the vibrant energy of this seaside destination.

Return to the vineyard accommodations in the evening for an engaging session led by the expert panel, focusing on human performance and mindset for longevity. This session explores strategies to optimize mental endurance, ensuring you leave the trip with actionable insights to enhance your life beyond the bike.

Ride to the Adriatic Sea: Relaxation and Mindset

Day 7

Apennine Mountain Ride & Return to Rome

Start your final ride of the trip with an exhilarating journey through the Apennine Mountains of Abruzzo and Chieti, weaving through national parks and lush valleys. This route offers stunning vistas and a rewarding cycling experience that captures the beauty and ruggedness of the region.

Midday, pause at the renowned hot springs of Caramanico Terme, where you’ll have the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the therapeutic waters. These natural springs are celebrated for their restorative properties, offering the perfect moment of recovery after an invigorating ride.

In the afternoon, transfer back to Rome, where you’ll settle into accommodations in the heart of the Eternal City. Spend the evening reflecting on the week’s accomplishments, exploring the vibrant streets of Rome, or simply relaxing in preparation for the final full day of your journey.

Apennine Mountain Ride & Return to Rome

Day 8

Exploring Rome & Farewell Dinner

Your final full day in Italy is dedicated to discovering the wonders of Rome, a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. Begin with a guided insider’s tour of the Eternal City, exploring iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City, as well as hidden gems and local favorites. This curated experience offers a deeper understanding of Rome’s rich heritage and culture.

In the evening, gather for a celebratory farewell dinner at one of our favorite Roman restaurants. Reflect on the week’s adventures, the connections made, and the invaluable lessons on performance and longevity gained throughout the journey. This memorable meal is the perfect way to toast to an unforgettable cycling experience and the inspiration to thrive well beyond the trip.

Exploring Rome & Farewell Dinner

What’s Included

This trip includes eight nights of accommodations in boutique hotels, private villas, and luxury accommodations in Umbria, Abruzzo, and Rome.
All meals are provided, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day.
Curated ride snacks are included to keep you fueled during cycling days.
Table wine is included with meals, though additional alcoholic beverages are not.
The cycling experiences feature expertly guided rides with options for both pavement and gravel routes, tailored to your preferences and abilities.
On-the-spot bike fitting with a professional fitter ensures optimal comfort and performance throughout the trip.
Expert sessions led by a specialized panel cover topics such as performance, recovery, nutrition, strength training, and mindset for longevity.
Cultural experiences include tours of vineyards and olive groves, spa visits such as the ancient Roman baths in Assisi, and guided explorations of Assisi, Perugia, Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Rocca Calascio, and Rome.
All private transfers during the trip are included, from airport pickup and drop-off to daily excursions.
To prepare for the trip, you’ll receive access to our Performance and Longevity Weekend in Connecticut in the spring, featuring expert-led sessions and hands-on training.
A personalized training and strength plan will also be provided to ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

What’s Not Included

Airfare is not included.
Rental bikes are not included.
Any additional alcoholic beverages beyond table wine are not included.

KC&E Adventures reserves the right to make adjustments to the itinerary as weather or terrain conditions dictate or as necessary to improve the trip quality or to accommodate the comfort, convenience, and well-being of our clients.

Trip Pricing

Trip Type

Occupancy

Double

Single Supp.

Group Trip

Sep 13, 2025

$9,600

$10,300

Private Trip

Guided

$11,500

$12,200

Self-Guided

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