Guest Stories: Jen and Jim Jesser

The Gucci of Cycling Tours: Our Story with Ciclismo Classico

We met in 2003 during a Sunday group ride with our local cycling club. Jim asked if I wanted to break off from the group and tackle a challenging local climb. I’ve always loved a good challenge—so off we went! We’ve been climbing hills together ever since.

When we’re not hiking in the Eastern Sierra with our three Labradors or spending time with family, you’ll find us on our bikes. I (Jen) introduced Jim to bike touring after experiencing the thrill of cycling abroad. After much discussion, we chose the 2013 Giro d’Italia with Ciclismo Classico as our first tour—and after that, Jim was hooked. We knew Ciclismo would be our go-to for future vacations.

We love the physical challenge of cycling, the adrenaline rush of a tough climb, and the exhilaration of a sweeping descent. It wasn’t long before we focused our tour choices on riding as many iconic Tour de France and Giro d’Italia climbs as possible—we’re up to eight Tour climbs and two Giro climbs!

Since the Giro, we’ve cycled the Pyrenees Sea to Sea, the French Alps, and Verona to Salzburg. Some favorite memories? Climbing the Col d’Izoard to watch the Tour de France roll through—our guide Isacco rode up with us carrying wine, cheese, and bread for a picnic at the summit. Unforgettable! Jim absolutely crushed Alpe d’Huez, and summiting the Tourmalet, with its sweeping switchbacks and epic views, was a dream come true. And of course, the Galibier… and so many more!

A recent highlight was reaching the summit of the Grossglockner on my (Jen’s) 62nd birthday. Our amazing guides, Filippo and Umbi, greeted me with big hugs—and back at the hotel, there was champagne and birthday cake waiting. That’s the kind of over-the-top magic that sets Ciclismo apart.

We call Ciclismo the Gucci of cycling tours—luxurious, personalized, and unforgettable. Beyond the breathtaking climbs, we love the rich cultural and culinary experiences. Each tour offers incredible diversity, and the guides feel like instant friends. Their knowledge and warmth ensure we always come home having learned something new.

Ciclismo’s carefully chosen, often historic hotels and top-notch restaurants expose us to local history and delicious regional cuisine—both passions of ours. Every tour expands our world. And we can’t wait for the next one.