Assisi to Spello Bike & Wine Tour

Thinking about combining a leisurely ride through Italy’s stunning Umbrian landscape with a taste of its renowned wines? This Assisi to Spello Bike & Wine Tour might just be the experience you’re searching for. It’s designed for those who want to explore at a gentle pace, enjoy some local flavors, and take in the charming sights of Spello.

What makes this tour appealing is its relaxed vibe and the chance to get away from busy tourist spots for a bit, soaking up scenic views on quiet country roads. Plus, the inclusion of a wine tasting, featuring regional reds and whites, adds a tasty layer to the journey.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not ideal if you’re unfamiliar with cycling, especially e-bikes, or if you have certain health issues like back or heart problems. The tour’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a laid-back ride and want a taste of local life without too much fuss.

If you’re after a small, intimate group experience with knowledgeable guides and a good mix of scenery, history, and food, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially appealing if you love discovering Italy through its landscapes and flavors rather than just ticking off sights.

Key Points

• Relaxed e-bike ride through picturesque Umbrian countryside
• Scenic views of Mount Subasio and olive groves
• Wine tasting featuring local reds and whites with delicious accompaniments
• Visit Spello, a lovely Roman town with charming alleys and historic sites
• Includes stops at notable sights like Villa dei Mosaici and the Baglioni Chapel
• Small group size (limited to 2 participants), offering a more personal experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

This tour kicks off from the Reception Hotel Bellavista in Assisi, making it an easy starting point if you’re already nearby. It’s a roughly 3-hour experience, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to add something special to a day without committing to a full-day excursion.

The route begins with a short ride from Assisi, shortly after passing the village of San Vitale, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by olive trees. The scenery here is quintessentially Umbrian—limestone hills, rows of silvery-green olives, and distant views of the town itself.

First Leg: Scenic Ride Along Via degli Ulivi

The highlight of the journey is the panoramic stretch along Via degli Ulivi, famous for its sweeping views over the valley and Assisi. We loved the way this road offered a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist routes, giving you plenty of photo opportunities and moments to soak in the tranquility.

Spello: The Jewel of Umbria

Once you arrive in Spello, you’ll see why it’s called the “pearl of Umbria.” This ancient Roman town is a maze of narrow alleys, flower-lined balconies, and historic sites. You can choose to explore independently or follow your guide to notable sights like the Villa dei Mosaici, where beautifully preserved mosaics showcase Roman craftsmanship, or the Baglioni Chapel, decorated by Pinturicchio.

Several reviews mention the charm of Spello’s alleys and the vibrant atmosphere at its cafes. Rebecca from the US appreciated her guide Daniele, who was “very helpful to show us the way and explain where we were,” making the town feel welcoming.

Wine Tasting Break

The moment everyone looks forward to is the wine tasting. After exploring Spello, you’ll pause to enjoy a selection of local red and white wines paired with bruschetta, organic olive oil, and local meats and cheeses. This is a great opportunity to savor regional flavors and learn about Umbrian wines from knowledgeable hosts.

Reviewers praised this stop for its quality. Rebecca called the wines, meat, and cheese “very good,” and appreciated the informative host. It’s a laid-back, convivial moment that complements the ride perfectly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Returning to Assisi

The ride back takes you along quiet back roads, passing by additional sights like the Sanctuary of the Sacred Tugurio of Rivotorto and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli. The route along Via degli Ulivi again offers stunning views—rows of olive trees stretching toward the horizon, inviting you to reflect on the simple beauty of Umbrian life.

One aspect to consider is that this tour isn’t available on Sundays, Easter, or Easter Monday, so plan accordingly.

The Realities of the Experience

While most reviews highlight the overall enjoyment, it’s worth noting some practical aspects. Several travelers found the bikes comfortable and the route scenic, but not all felt the maintenance was top-tier. One reviewer pointed out issues like a front brake not being well-adjusted and less-than-fluent English from staff, which could make logistics a tad confusing.

However, the small group size (just 2 participants) means more personalized attention, and the guides are generally well-regarded for their helpfulness and local knowledge.

What’s Included and Extra Costs

The tour cost includes the bike, guide, and wine tasting, but there are some optional extras like bike delivery within 20 km or phone assistance, which incur additional charges. For instance, renting the bike plus a phone assistance package costs around €50, which can be worthwhile if you’re unfamiliar with e-bikes or GPS navigation.

If you need to retrieve a bike or fix a puncture, expect to pay small fees—€5 per wheel for a puncture or €20 for chain repairs—so it’s good to be prepared.

Suitability and Fitness Level

This tour is best suited for those who have good riding ability on e-bikes and are comfortable navigating quiet roads. It’s not recommended for people with back, mobility, or heart issues, or those without cycling experience. Wearing comfortable clothing and sneakers is advised, making it accessible for most people in reasonable shape.

Overall Value and Who It’s For

Considering the length, inclusions, and small group setup, this experience offers good value for travelers eager to combine physical activity, stunning scenery, and culinary delights. The quality of the wine and food and the knowledge of the guides stand out as particularly positive aspects.

It’s perfect for those who want a casual, scenic outing rather than a rigorous cycling adventure. Food and wine lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots will find this tour appealing.

Keep in mind that some maintenance issues and logistical hiccups have been noted, but nothing that should spoil the overall enjoyment if you’re flexible and prepared.

Final Thoughts

The Assisi to Spello Bike & Wine Tour is a charming way to see the Umbrian countryside at a relaxed pace, enjoying spectacular views and regional flavors. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate a personal touch, good company, and a taste of local life.

If you’re comfortable on a bike and craving a gentle intro to this beautiful region, this experience could be a highlight of your trip. Just be sure to confirm the availability on your travel dates and consider your comfort level with cycling and outdoor activities.

For those wanting a blend of scenery, history, and culinary delights—a more laid-back, intimate adventure—this tour offers plenty to smile about.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
You should have good ability to ride an e-bike, as it requires some cycling skill. It’s not recommended for complete beginners without experience on e-bikes.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that won’t take over your entire schedule.

What’s included in the wine tasting?
You’ll taste local red and white wines along with bruschetta, organic olive oil, and often local meats and cheeses, all served in a relaxed setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Are there any particular health considerations?
The tour isn’t suitable if you have back problems, mobility issues, or heart problems. Good physical ability and comfort on a bike are required.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a credit card for optional extras, and wear comfortable clothing and sneakers suitable for cycling.

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to explore Italy’s beautiful Umbrian vistas, indulge in local wines, and enjoy a charming town, this bike and wine combo could be just the ticket. It balances scenery, culture, and culinary pleasure in a way that’s approachable and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: