Valdarno's vintage cycle races: the Marzocchina and the Valdambrina

Every year in early September, the Marzocchina takes place, which starts in San Giovanni Valdarno and travels along dirt paths closed to traffic within the Cavriglia mining area. Participants can choose between a shorter, easier route and the classic, medium-difficulty route. Along the route, they traverse the picturesque Valdarno countryside, pass through the charming village of Castelnuovo dei Sabbioni and, of course, explore the historic center of San Giovanni Valdarno. During the ride, it is essential that all participants wear vintage clothing, such as woolen jerseys and shorts, avoiding the use of modern technical materials. Other accessories, such as shoes, caps and water bottles, should also match the period style. This is a unique opportunity to visit the cities of San Giovanni Valdarno and Cavriglia, immersing oneself in tradition and tasting the local products available during the event.

In 2023, the Valdambrina was also born, a vintage cycle race that runs through the municipality of Bucine and the beautiful Valdambra in October. Participants can choose from four different route options, depending on their level of difficulty: "L'Infame" (the long route), "La Scalata" (the medium route), "La Pedalata" (the short route) and "La Sgambata" (the very short route). All routes start from the historic center of Bucine and follow different routes to discover different facets of the valley, passing through small villages and rural landscapes. To participate, you must have Eroica bicycles, which are vintage racing bicycles with folding handlebars, built up to 1987, including those with or without gears, such as those dating from the late 1800s or early 1900s. These bicycles generally have steel frames, but occasionally aluminum frames with bolted and glued joints are allowed. Similar to the Marzocchina, the event requires vintage or history-inspired clothing, such as original jerseys and shorts of the time or reproductions, avoiding modern technical materials. The journey into the past continues among the vintage stalls and traditional flavors.

Thanks to the vintage cycle races, the area is thus rediscovered from an unusual perspective, not only for participants, but also for those visiting Valdarno, allowing them to explore the region while immersing themselves in a retro atmosphere.