Close in Chianti hills with Todd and Melisa.

 We started a little later this morning, and had some discussions on how to make it work or what to do as they are moving to the country tonight around Tavernelle.  We had a few possibilities, but all of them were a hastle for at least one or more of us.  We decided mid ride to do a day of riding on Monday, and leave the bikes at my apartment today.  That way they don't have to deal with moving bikes daily, which is a challenge.  They also can enjoy the peace of the countryside with no committments.  One day less for me, but that is totally fine.

I had planned the day with going through Tavernuzze in mind, as I thought they were going to rent a car and transport the bikes.  After we decided that was not best, we skipped Tavernuzze, but still did a tour in that area.  We rode out past Piazzale Michaelangelo, then up to Poggio Imperiale.  Enjoyed the descent to Galluzzo, then over to Cinque Vie to start the climb to Vacciano.  Everyone enjoyed the climb, and the continuing climb to San Gersole, Monteoriolo, and into Impruneta.  We stopped for a cafe and snack at my new favorite place there and took a good break.

We descended the direct route toward Ferrone, got on the main road and turned off for the climb through Luiano.  Toward the top, I gave the options for continuing, and we decided to continue at least to Montefiridolfi.  Great ride to Montefiridolfi, then along the ridge to Bibbione.  We enjoyed the descent to the valley, then all rode the climb to San Casciano pretty fast.  Todd and Melisa definitely picked up the pace starting here for the remainder of the day.  We stopped in San Casciano and I pointed out gelato and water, and neither were needed or desired.  We continued riding through Chiesa Nuova and then down into Scandicci.  I gave the options for either the viales or through the city center, and they choose the center.

We powered through Scandicci and I was on auto pilot and we started toward the Viales, then stopped to change course through town.  A little confusion, totally my fault, then back on course.  After crossing Ponte Carria, we were on the race course through town, which was super fun.  We got off the course at Piazza del Duomo, and took a good posed picture.  While I was taking the picture some very nice American tourists came up to talk and were  convinced we were all participants in the Mondiale.  I explained that we weren't even close, and they eventually understood.  We finished the ride at the apartment, then went to the neighborhood place for a panini and a couple of cheeseburgers.  Great day, and I am looking forward to Monday.  Ciao.

Close in Chianti hills with Todd and Melisa by ridingwithcosimo at Garmin Connect - Details

Todd and Melisa climbing to Luiano.

In the valley just before starting the climb to Montefiridolfi.

Almost back.  In the Piazza del Duomo posing with the Duomo, Campanile,

and Baptistry in the background.  We rode the race course in through town.  Fun.