L'Eroica

Every first Sunday in October, Gaiole in Chianti hosts "L'Eroica", a traditional yet unique bike ride of vintage bicycles and retro clothes, white roads and beautiful Tuscan landscapes, from the Sienese Chianti to the Crete Senesi and the Val d'Orcia.

A cycling event born in 1997, with the aim of preserving Tuscan dirt roads and preventing their replacement by asphalt ones. A race born therefore with a "romantic" spirit and linked to the territory, which has become today an example of respect for the environment, sustainable lifestyle and "clean" cycling, as well as an event with international success, exported and replicated all over the world.

Five routes along which the race takes place:

• Chianti Valley Walk - 46 km
  A route that takes place among the Chianti Classico vineyards and typical Tuscan scrubland, with the panorama of Siena in the background.
• Black Rooster Short Course – 81 km
  About four hours cheered by a refreshment of ribollita and Chianti Classico.
• Crete Senesi Medium Route – 135 km
  Within the reach of many cyclists, but with ride times that can reach 10 to 12 hours or more.  The route passes through Buonconvento, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
• Long Route – 209 km
  The most authentic Eroica, a ride of at least 15 hours, with over 3700 meters of elevation gain. The route winds through incomparable landscapes and gives unforgettable emotions, such as the night passage to Brolio Castle.
• Cento Val d'Arbia Route – 106 km
  A new and unprecedented route that passes through the Crete Senesi.

Registration is required to participate in L'Eroica, but the permanent route can be cycled at any time of the year, on one or more days, with any type of bike, by anyone who wants to test their skills or simply explore some of Tuscany's most beautiful areas by bike.