by Bruce Hendler for AthletiCamps

With endless back roads that lead all the way to Lake Tahoe, Amador County offers some of the most spectacular riding in Northern California.  Add to that, incredible scenery and a California wine region few know about, it is no coincidence that Amador County is known as the “La Toscana della California” – The Tuscany of California.  There are so many great rides to challenge every level of cyclist.  My favorite begins in the old mining town of Ione.

The great thing about starting in Ione is that the terrain is dead flat and gives you amble time to warm up before the rolling hills lead to more impressive climbs deep within the region.  Heading west out of town, you immediately get a taste of how great the area is for group rides, as there is little traffic and perfectly smooth roads.  Turn onto Irish Hill road and you begin the slow accent to the ultimate prize – riding through the vineyards.  The first “major” town you pass thru after about 20 miles is Plymouth; also know as “Pokerville”.  I call Plymouth major; I think there are 300 residents .  After leaving Plymouth, the climbing begins and you get your first glimpse of the vineyards and background of the Sierras.  The climbs are not long and sustained, but take on the character of a lot of regions in this area.  The next town is Fiddletown and you have to see this place to believe it!  It’s one road; don’t blink.  With old structures, this is Amador County at its best.  During Transition camp, this is where we stopped for pictures (see link in next story)!  Leaving Fiddletown, there is a big wooden fiddle on top of the local bar and you head into the vineyards.  If you keep going on Fiddletown road, you go to a place called Daffodil hill and the town of Volcano, which hosts a Shakespeare festival in the summer months.  Volcano is surrounded by steep wooded hills, a great hotel, coffee shops and has a population of 101.  The next 15-20 miles after leaving Fiddletown are spent riding thru the vineyards, and if you are in the right mood, a stop or two at the wineries, where they are always glad to serve you!  You arrive back into Plymouth, by way of Shenandoah Valley road and make your way back to Ione, choosing from a variety of traffic free routes! 

What a ride!  50 - 60 miles, perfect distances.  Tuscany in California.  It’s become a tradition to take the camps to Amador on the last full day, as it is worth the short drive.  It also allows us to practice group riding skills, demonstrate specific workouts and for those traveling from a long distance, provide another glimpse of this incredible area to ride a bike and train.  A trip to Amador is already scheduled for the next camps!  See you there!