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Gravel Tuscany with BWR

Ride the legendary strade bianche and the best parts of the mythical Eroica ride

Famous for it’s hilltop towns, Chianti wine, cypress trees, great food and Italian style, Tuscany is also home to the strade bianche and some of the best gravel and Beyond Tarmac rides in Europe.

Next Departure

October 6th 2024

USD $ 3,895

7 days / 6 nights

Non-Rider Friendly

Find out more

Rental Bike

From USD $ 550

Ride Program

Total distance, total elevation, daily av. distance, daily av. elevation.

Tuscany with it’s legendary strade bianche  is the perfect destination for a Thomson gravel trip. Starting just outside Siena, you’ll ride through the best of Tuscany following many of the white gravel routes made famous by the Eroica and the annual Strade Bianche professional race. Discover the medieval towns of Montereggioni and San Gimignano. Ride through the classic Chianti and Vernaccia vineyards and the Crete Senesi with its quintessential Tuscan landscapes of rolling hills and lines of cypress trees leading to hilltop farms.

Join us in this gravel paradise for an unforgettable experience and some of the best Beyond Tarmac riding Europe has to offer!

Get a glimpse of what to expect in our short film following the Thomson ride leaders on our reconnaissance trip through Tuscany

Trip Technical Difficulty

Ride surfaces, bike setup recommendations, recommended tires.

A minimum 700×34, but feel free to use more rubber for more comfort and grip if your bike has extra tire clearance.

Recommended Gearing

38T × 11-42

We recommend a minimum gear ratio of 0.90 using a 38T chainring × 42 rear cog (or equivalent). Check your gear ratios at www.bikecalc.com/gear_ratios.

Not advised for Non-Riders

The route for this trip was designed for optimal cycling. It traverses remote areas in order to offer the most challenging and spectacular experience for avid cyclists. We do not encourage non-riding companions to join this trip, as the focus is on the riding and there is not an abundance of non-riding activities. Non-riders, unless they have their own transportation, will spend most of their time in one of our support vans.

Gravel Explained

Read below for a brief description of our gravel definitions. We have classed the surfaces into five categories, from tarmac to boulders, to give an indication of the amount and level of rough stuff on each trip.

Geoff Jones, USA — 2022

This was a truly great trip. The routes were well-designed, the food and accommodation were outstanding and the staff were fun and professional. Grazie mille!

Davin Johnson, USA — 2021

Super pro from start to finish. But more importantly, super good people. Half the fun was getting to know the guys I was riding with and the guys from Thomson. The routes, hotels and logistics were on point. I'm already mapping out my next trip!

Larry Kaufman, USA — 2022

This trip met my gravel expectations: routes were challenging on road, gravel and forest dirt. Daily ride tempo was energetic. Leaders were helpful and superb cyclists--great wheels to follow. I really needed a big week full of tough gravel climbs to jump-start my system and Thomson Tuscany Gravel delivered the goods. Support, logistics and nutrition was top-notch. Highly recommend! Tanti Saluti a Tutti, Loco Flahute Longmont, Colorado

Itinerary Detail

Benvenuti in Toscana

Your trip starts at Florence Airport where our staff will meet you before the transfer to your hotel in Borgo Luigi, close to the beautiful Colle Val d’Elsa

After a brief orientation meeting, bike build-up and lunch we’ll head out for a short warm-up ride in the hills around and visit the amazing Monteriggioni medieval town.

The hill-top town of San Gimignano

Embarking on our Tuscany adventure today, we’re set for a magnificent ride to the medieval gem, San Gimignano. Our journey takes us deep into the heart of Tuscany, weaving through the rolling Vernaccia vineyards that embrace the iconic medieval towers.

Into the heart of the Chianti region

Leaving Borgo Luigi, our journey unfolds on a wonderful gravel section, revealing the mesmerizing beauty of Tuscan landscapes. The wheels spin through the renowned Chianti vineyards, each gravel stretch leading us to the charming town of Radda in Chianti. Here, a pause for a delightful gelato awaits, a sweet reward for the adventure. But this ride isn’t just about paths and towns; it’s a venture into the heart of the famed L’Eroica course, a cycling legacy etched in history.

In the tire tracks of L'Eroica

Setting out from Radda in Chianti, today’s stage weaves through the scenic beauty of cypresses, olive trees, and vineyards. Passing through the historic Gaiole in Chianti, birthplace of the Eroica race, we head south to the majestic Castello di Brolio. Midway, a turn north brings us back to Radda, where a well-deserved gelato and the comforts of our Spa hotel await.

The "Chianti Classico" region

Get ready for  a captivating journey today, departing from Radda in Chianti for a scenic, hilly ride up north into the renowned Chiant Classico wi  region. Explore the charm of historic towns like Greve in Chianti, famous for its wines and breathtaking views. This cycling adventure is not just a ride; it’s an immersive experience in the heart of Tuscany’s beauty. Join us as we navigate the undulating terrain, discovering the allure of vineyards and capturing the essence of Chianti.

Eroica + Strade Bianche

Gear up for an unforgettable Grand Finale! We’ll be riding the best sections of the classic Eroica event, seamlessly blended with iconic stretches of the Strada bianche, including the famed Monte Sant Marie ride near Asciano – a route celebrated by the Fabian Cancellara monument. Our epic journey concludes at the Four Points hotel in Siena, adding the perfect finishing touch to an incredible week exploring the finest terrain Tuscany has to offer. Grazie for an amazing adventure!

Unfortunately, your trip across Tuscany has come to an end.

Our shuttle will drop you off at Florence Airport.

Map & Profile

Read our Gravel Explainer for a full description of our gravel definitions.

Surface Details

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Dates & Prices

Waiting List

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Trip Hotels

Hotel Borgo San Luigi

Relais Vignale & Spa

Four Points Siena

What's Included

Pick-up/Drop-off Info

Rental Bikes

3T Exploro Boost e-bike

3T Exploro Ultra Boost Carbon

Sram Rival AXS XPLR Electronic

Rodi alloy 700c

12-speed 10-44t

XXS, 51, 54, 56, 58, 61

Specialized Diverge Expert Carbon

Specialized Diverge FACT 9r carbon

Under 1kg (size 56)

Roval Terra C

11-50t (12-speed)

49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61

Tuscany beyond tarmac, inspired by the Eroica and Strade Bianche courses, the perfect mix.

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Tuscany Gravel Bike Tour | Eroic “Strade Bianche” | Self Guided

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Tuscany gravel bike tour, from pienza, the eroica town of val d’orcia to gaiole in chianti the famed “strade bianche” of tuscany.

These white, dusted roads are home to one of pro cycling’s biggest dates, with steep climbs and full-blown attacks at every bend. The Strade Bianche is truly something unique and special to experience. The region’s rolling hills and fine wines make this a must destination if you love gravel cycling.

Discover the route of the Strade Bianche professional race – We put together this self guided Bike Tour selecting sections from the race combined with sections of L’Eroica as your tour itinerary from March to November.

Like the L’Eroica, you will visit towns of Gaiole and covers some of the most beautiful roads in the provinces of Chianti and Siena, winding among historic vineyards, leading to the cypress-lined entrance of Castello di Brolio and Corte Pavone.

All Tuscany bike tours: CLICK HERE

WIKI TUSCANY

Tour Details

Highlights:.

• Follow the hilly path of L’Eroica, Tuscany’s internationally recognized vintage bike race.
• Explore ancient cellars, taste superb Tuscan wines; from Vino Nobile di Montepulciano to Brunello di Montalcino.
• Experience the serenity of the Tuscan countryside and savor the flavors of authentic pasta fresca and local cheeses.
• Treat yourself with Caffé espresso, cappuccino & the best gelato!
• Six nights in excellent four three-star superior hotels
• Six breakfasts
• Bike delivery in Pienza and professional bike fitting
• Route notes, maps, elevation gain and city map
• Sightseeing, restaurant and shopping suggestions
• All Baggage transfers
• Drop Off bike and gear in Gaiole
• Keepsake BTS water bottle
• All tax and service charges
• City Tax; each village charge a tax per each day between euro 0,70 to 2,50
• Bike Rental
• Pre/Post Additional Nights
• Transfers to/from other destinations on the Island
• Cooking lessons
• Wine tasting

Day 1 Welcome to Pienza & Bagno Vignoni. 25 km /15 miles Bike Test.

Meet & Greet in Pienza; the purest Renaissance town in the world for welcomeing and bike fitting. Pienza; the is a remarkable example of Renaissance-era town planning. First, a short bike ride to Bagno Vignoni, a thermal spa town that dates back to Roman times and the Madonna di Vita Leta chapel. Lodging at hotel Relais Il Chiostro di Pienza Meals included: welcome aperitif

Day 2 Loop from Pienza to Montepulciano & Vino Nobile. 51km / 31mi, Rolling hills.

Loop Bike Ride in Pienza. Distance: 51 km/31,5 miles Difficulty: Moderate; 17km asphalt and 34km gravel Loop bike ride from Pienza. Spring brings red poppy blossoms to the vibrant green wheat fields of Tuscany, and nowhere is the bloom more brilliant than the hills of the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with corridors of proud cypress trees. Follow the gravel roads off the beaten path and enjoy an espresso at La Foce. By lunchtime you’ll arrive to Montepulciano, the jewel of southern Tuscany. Return to Pienza with a stop in the village of Monticchiello, the quintessential Tuscan hill town. Lodging at hotel Relais Il Chiostro di Pienza. Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3 Pienza to Montalcino, Brunello Wine. 41km / 25mi, hilly.

Difficulty: Moderate; 17 km asphalt and 24 km gravel Today we selected the sections of Eroica called Lucignano d’Asso and Pieve a Salti. Leave Pienza and follow the white roads toward Cosona to the little hamlet of Lucignano. Start the other Eroica gravel section of Pieve a Salti 9 km up and down in the rural countryside! Arrive in Buonconvento in time for lunch. After lunch, face the climb to the famed wine town of Montalcino all through vineyards and wineries. For dinner, reward yourself at least a glass of Brunello – we have a list of our favorite. Lodging at hotel il Giglio in Montalcino Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4 Montalcino to Siena. 56km / 35mi, Rolling hills.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging; 32 km asphalt and 24 km gravel L’Eroica, meaning “The Heroic” takes place every October when thousands of hardened cyclists travel back in time on heavy lugged-steel bikes with down-tube shifters and impossible gear ratios and hard-man mentality. Today, we’ll ride one of the most beautiful gravel sections of L’Eroica. From the heart of Brunello di Montalcino, ride to the top of Passo del Lume Spento; which starts the Castiglion del Bosco gravel section. Once in Bibbiano, another 30km section called la Piana to reach Murlo. From here another legendary Eroica section to Radi, with some steep yet short rolling hills. A light lunch in Ville di Corsano you before returning to Siena. Lodging at hotel Villa STR in Siena Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5 Siena to Gaiole in Chianti, the Eroica Town. 46km / 28mi, Rolling hills to Hilly.

Difficulty: Moderate to Callenging; 12 km asphalt and 34 km gravel Today’s destination is the town where the Eroica starts heading out into magical Chianti. Exit Siena via a Eroica gravel section of Pieve a Bozzone, Vico dArbia cycling 15km through rolling wheat fields to the wine region of Pianella. Pedal to Canonica a Cerreto, Vagliagli through Chianti Classico vineyards where you can’t help but count castles and old hilltop hamlets! Reach Radda in Chianit in time for lunch then in to Gaiole to relax. Lodging at the charming Hotel Castello Spaltenna Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6 Loop from Gaiole to Castellina on Chianti Hills. 54km / 33 mi, rolling hills to Hilly.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging; 44 km asphalt and 10 km gravel Explore the villages and hamlets of Chianti Senese. Start from Gaiole and bike to Castello di Brolio. After a nice coffee stop, ride a short gravel section of the Eroica and on secondary scenery roads until reaching Castelnuvo Berardenga, just in time for lunch. Back on the saddle and encounter other small Borgos: San Gusmé and Villa a Sesta – back to Brolio. To return to Gaiole, you have 2 options; downhill and flat, or challenging uphill to Castagnoli and downhill to Castello di Meleto. Tonight, you deserve a Michelin starred dinner at your hotel restaurant Il Pievano. Lodging at the charming Hotel Castello di Spaltenna. Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7 Arrivederci! Good bye! Or short loop in Gaiole. Distance: 20 to 40Km.

Badia a Coltibuono Short loop Ride in Gaiole. Distance: 20 Km If you still have energy and your legs feel strong, you can have a short ride to Badia a Coltibuono and back to Gaiole where you will leave the bikes.

Tour Price: 1590€

Price based on double accommodation, it can change according to the period.

Make it custom: contact us for a quote!

Single occupancy: 560 € Solo traveler: 880 €

Private & Custom departures at any time

Day 1 & 2  – Il Chiostro Relais, Pienza

Il Chiostro di Pienza is housed in a 15th C convent and sits protected and quiet right in the center of this tiny town. It has been renovated but all the beamed ceilings frescoed walls and ancient tile floors have been preserved.

Day 3 – Giglio Hotel, Montalcino

A charming retreat in the heart of town, hotel Giglio, family-run, in a warm and quiet building, facing a gorgeous landscape, the best part is the view of the cliff-clinging houses of Montalcino to your left and the rumpled patchwork of green valleys stretching out below.

Day 4 – Villa STR, Siena

Villa STR is a converted 19th-century villa that retains the charm and ambiance of its former origins as a private residence. The decoration in the recently renovated public areas bears the hallmarks of Italian classical design. It is just outside the ancient walls of the historic center of Siena, 

Day 5 & 6 – Castello di Spaltenna, Gaiole in Chianti

It offers an exclusive atmosphere amidst a unique landscape. Located in the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region, the manor’s luxurious guestrooms offer any possible comfort along with wonderful views over the valley. 

I contacted mauro to organize a tour for my dad and his girlfriend. They are experienced riders and have taken bike tour all around europe, but don’t speak english or italian. Mauro helped me organize a tour specially for them, with cooking classes, wine tastings and other activities in spanish. They had an amazing time, the hotels were beautiful, the food was delicious, and mauro took care of them all the time.

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A Ride and Seek Tour

Tuscany Gravel Explorer & Eroica Gaiole

• Dates & Prices
• Food & Wine

Tuscany Gravel Explorer Overview

Where better to start than the home of the ‘Strade Bianche’ in Tuscany for our first gravel-specific tour? This unique tour embraces quintessential Tuscany but from a more off-the-beaten-track perspective and will appeal to any of you out there with a passion for finding the road less travelled. The full tour includes the option to finish with a chance to ride the famous Eroica Gaiole vintage bike race.

Our gateway for this tour is the beautiful city of Florence . From here we are able to explore many of the cycling routes of ‘La Bella Toscana’ that we have got to know so well over the years, including the Val d’Orcia, Chiantigiana, and the 7 bridges roads. Our route takes in the beguiling towns of Arezzo Siena and Loro Ciuffenna, as well as a plethora of enchanting hill towns along the way. Our refreshments will focus on the Sangiovese grape and general relaxation catered for by the numerous natural springs – ‘terme’ –  that can be found en route.

What is gravel riding? A nicely presented video from Shimano that explores the essence of what they believe gravel riding to be all about. Try watching this without an urge to get out there and explore!

Eroica Gaiole

Turn your ride into one of historical proportions and take advantage of the chance to be part of one of the world’s greatest cycling events – L’Eroica (literally, ‘The Heroic’). Conceptualised in 1997, by the visionary Giancarlo Brocci , as a means of protecting Tuscany’s fabled ‘Strade Bianche’ from being paved, the ride can normally only be entered via a lottery system.

We have the good fortune of being able to acquire guaranteed entries as one of the official Eroica tour operators. We bypass the lottery system and therefore guarantee entry to all of our riders.

In terms of your steed you have 3 options: you can choose to bring your own, rent a ‘normal’ bike from us for the Tuscany Gravel Explorer stage, or spend the whole tour on a ‘vintage’ bike (either your own or rented from us).

For the Eroica the rules are that you must ride on a pre-1987 steel frame bike with ‘rat trap’ pedals, down tube shifters, and exposed cables, wearing woollen jerseys, and fuelled by decadent Italian food and wine! Vintage bikes are available to rent if you do not own one.

Join us on this cycling odyssey leading up to what is known as the ‘most handsome race in the world’ .

Team Members on this Tour

Guido gazzaniga -.

First cycling memory: My first ride without training wheels, I was four and I was riding in my parents’ house corridor. I clearly remember I saw the sky one second before crashing into a door.

Favourite bike: My Bice Bicycle steel gravel bike.

Top climb: I love the alps, so any climb in the alps would fit, but if I have to pick one I would say the Gavia pass.

One thing on your bucket list: Two things: the Carrettera Austral and a biking trip across Japan

A special skill you bring on tour: I’m a stress-free person since 2015, at least when I’m on a bike, but I’m doing pretty well also when not riding.

Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience: There is a gelateria in Pienza that is simply one of the best I’ve ever experienced - and I've had lot of gelato in my life!

Languages: Native Italian, fluent English and French, conversational Spanish and basic Portuguese

Ride and Seek tours you lead: the 3 Islands Epic, and Hannibal

Rachel Andersen -

First cycling memory: I was six years old when my superhero mom chased me down a steep hill and miraculously caught me before I entered into heavy traffic, back before I knew how to brake (backpedal, baby!).

Favourite bike: My custom Casbah gravel bike. Works like a charm on those nasty, Umbrian roads and I designed the color scheme myself.

Top climb: The ride from Port de Pollença to Cap de Formentor (Mallorca) with 1000m of climbing packed into 40km is epically stunning with its endless views out to sea.

One thing on your bucket list: The Khangai Mountains Traverse in Mongolia with my sweetheart.

A special skill you bring on tour: Being able to know what you will love as an experience before you do. I also have a passion for teaching yoga, plant-based diets, bike mechanics, and singing.

Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience: Homemade and seasonal pumpkin tortelli from Reggio Emilia with grated, fresh parmigiano reggiano. OMG.

Languages: English, Italian, un peu de Français

Ride and Seek tours you lead: Hannibal: Barcelona to Rome or go home!

Next: Dates

Tuscany gravel explorer & eroica 2024.

All tours and individual stages are available as a custom tour for your group – contact us for details.

What’s Included?

• Accommodation in our carefully selected hotels
• Meals – hotel breakfasts, snacks en route and pre/post-ride nutrition, lunches including the famed Ride and Seek picnics, multi course group dinners with a focus on the local cuisine.*NB we include occasional independent lunches & dinners to break up the week
• Ride and Seek jersey
• Garmin 1030 use with all routes preloaded
• Ride and Seek water bottle
• Kit laundry service once a week
• Passionate, experienced and knowledgeable guides always on hand to help

Not Included

• Alcoholic beverages
• Bike hire – if you do not have your own vintage bike for the Eroica, we can rent you one
• Pre & post tour accommodation

Supplements

• Single supplement – Our prices are based on twin/double occupancy. If you wish to have your own room then a supplement is applicable.
• To reserve a place on a stage of this tour we ask for a deposit of €500 (or your local currency equivalent). We also accept payment in GB£ and AU$. The final invoice will include any applicable single supplements and bike hire costs.

Previous: Overview

Tuscany gravel explorer food & wine.

Tuscan cuisine is characterised by its close association with the land. The unique language of the ancient Etruscans may have all but disappeared but their earthy cuisine lives on in Tuscany. Simplicity is the key to Tuscan cuisine that reflects the region’s peasant traditions and changing seasons. You’ll get plenty of chance to experience the essence of Tuscan gastronomy on the Eroica tour with the rest stops renowned for their novel approach to cycling nutrition. Where else on a cycling sportive would you be offered Ribollita, a hearty soup based primarily on stale bread, cabbage and cannelloni – Tuscan white beans – which is the essence of peasant fare? If you prefer something a little lighter you could always sample Panzanella – a unique a bread salad with tomato and basil. Our personal favourites on the ride though are the salami and bruschetta that are moreish in the extreme!

On the wine front again you won’t be disappointed when it comes to the Eroica rest stops – yes they serve wine! Home to many great wines, Tuscany is the great rival to Piedmont for the mantle of being Italy’s premier wine area. The Tuscans certainly believe that they are deserving of the honour and with Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and the ‘Super Tuscans’ all produced in the region they clearly have a strong case. In the lead up to the Eroica event we will visit our friend’s vineyard in Montalcino for a Brunello wine tasting, as well as exploring the Chiantigiana where a lunch time tipple is almost obligatory.

Previous: Dates

Next: history.

Written by Australian expat Isabelle Dusi, this book is slightly different from most of its genre in that the author had already been in Montalcino for a number of years before she wrote it. Slow in parts this book nonetheless provides a charming account of Tuscan village life.

Isabella Dusi, Vanilla Beans & Brodo

Written by tour guide Dario Castagno this book provides a humourous insight into some of the extreme situations he has found himself in. Heavy on anecdotes about tourists you hope you’ll never encounter, this book, whilst slightly shallow, is still a good read.

Dario Castagno, Too Much Tuscan Sun -Confessions of a Chianti Tour Guide

Finding a book that focuses on Tuscany and the Romans is hard given the all encompassing nature of their empire. As an overview of Roman influence in Tuscany though the Blue Guide does a great job. Be warned it contains over 500 pages but as a definitive guide of the region it is hard to beat.

Alta Macadam, Blue Guide – Tuscany

Iris Origo’s book is a classic that is written in diary form. With an immediacy that only a diary can give, this chronicle of daily life during the Second World War is powerful in its simplicity. In light of the affluence of the area today this book presents an insight into an altogether less fortunate era.

Iris Origo, War in Val D’Orcia – An Italian War Diary 1943-44

Previous: History

Tuscany gravel explorer history.

Named after the Etruscans, one of its original inhabitants, Tuscany or Toscana in Italian corresponds closely geographically to ancient Etruria. The Etruscans, known mostly nowadays for their impressive tomb sites, withstood the inevitable Roman expansion for a century or two until succumbing in the mid 4th century B.C.

Roman rule lasted close to 8 centuries and besides a few minor hiccups (such as Hannibal!) the region flourished. Road networks throughout Tuscany facilitated transport and trade and settlements on the sites of modern Florence, Lucca, Arezzo, Pisa and Pistoia prospered.

After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century BC, and brief occupations by the Byzantines and Ostrogoths, Tuscany became a Lombard duchy (6th-8th cent. A.D.), with Lucca as its capital. Charlemagne destroyed the Lombard kingdom and the Frankish Empire ruled from the 8th to the 12th century. Castles, Monasteries and Abbeys were built, many surviving today, and many of the towns developed into communes independent of the Holy Roman Empire.

The rivalry between these communes in Trade and war was intense and after a period of Pisan dominance in the 11th to 13th centuries Florence became the foremost city in Tuscany. The relative peace that followed, initially ruled over by the Medici, was the catalyst for the prolific artistic style that identifies the area today and is known as the Renaissance period. This period marked great cultural change and achievement in Europe that spanned from the end of the 13th century to about 1600, marking the transition between Medieval and Early Modern Europe.

After the Medici, Tuscany was ruled by the Austrian Dukes of Lorraine. The Dukes of Lorraine modernized and developed the area but in 1861 Tuscany voted in favour of annexation to a united Italy. Florence was briefly, prior to Rome, capital of the kingdom of Italy from 1865 to 1871.

Sunset on Siena – photo taken by Antonio Cinotti

Previous: Food

Next: reading.

A once in a lifetime experience. It was challenging, but fun, a great festival and full of nostalgia and atmosphere. James our guide on the day was incredible and the food and wine were superb along with Ride and Seek’s knowledge of all things Italian. My biggest worry was Anne-Maree as a non rider, in terms of what would she would do whilst I was riding. The way she was included in the group made the trip an unforgettable experience for us both. Thanks again Dylan to you and your colleagues, it was a special ride.

Dave – L’Erocia & Tuscany

I didn’t fully understand what I was in for, but the tour far surpassed my expectations. The rides leading up to the event, visiting Nostra Vita, the vintage bike preparations, the vintage shopping in Gaiole, our top-notch accommodation at Agriturismo Molinello, and the professionalism of the Ride and Seek crew, made this week one of my all-time favorites. I’ll be coming back next year! 

Sarah R – L’Erocia & Tuscany

Next: Overview

When exploring gravel, where better to start than the home of the 'strade bianche' in Tuscany? And finishing with chance to take part in the classic Eroica Gaiole vintage race.

Tour at a Glance

Tuscany Gravel Explorer & Eroica

Tuscany Gravel Explorer

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Bike Tour Reviews  Tuscany's Legendary Gravel Routes

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Tuscany's Legendary Gravel Routes

COUNTRY: Italy

Self guided from EUR € 1690

Self-guided: Daily departures, Mar 15 - Oct 31, 2024

Description: With its timeless landscapes, ancient towns, and vineyards, Tuscany offers unparalleled views of authentic Italian life. The region's simplicity, art, and cuisine make it an unforgettable destination in the heart of Italy. Gravel biking in Tuscany offers…

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Strade Bianche Bike Tour

A Week of White Gravel in Tuscany

Our Levels range from 1-4. Learn more .

Tour Highlights

Tuscany’s famed white gravel roads have gained notoriety among professional cyclists and fans alike because of one race—Strade Bianche. Between the undulating terrain, unpredictable spring weather, and unpaved gravel surfaces, the event has reached iconic status in its short history.

DuVine opens doors to the cycling-crazed enclave in and around Siena as only we can: with five-star accommodations just steps from the race village, rides along some of the most thrilling sections of the parcours one day before the pros , access to roadside action on race day, and the opportunity to join the Gran Fondo Strade Bianche.

All week long, you’ll ride our custom Cannondale Synapse Di2 bikes equipped with Vittoria Terreno Dry gravel tires and enjoy pro-level treatment before, during, and after your rides, thanks to a dedicated support team of guides, soigneurs, and mechanics. Plus, complimentary Rapha x DuVine gear, including a custom jersey, socks, and cycling cap, outfit you along the way.

Hand-rolled pici pasta, pecorino cheese, truffles, fava beans, artichokes, chestnuts, porcini mushrooms, Chianina beef, and cinghiale (wild boar)

World-famous wines made from native Sangiovese grapes including Brunello, Chianti Classico, and Vino Nobile; international blends known as Super Tuscans; and—in classic Italian fashion—espresso and cappuccino

As featured in:

Ciao Bella Toscana!

Your guides will meet you at the Chiusi train station for a transfer to our first hotel in the Tuscan hilltop hamlet of San Quirico D’Orcia. Enjoy a light lunch in town before getting fitted to your bike. We won’t waste any time hitting the famous white roads of Tuscany—the strade bianche —starting just three miles into our first ride. It feels like a return to the 13th century as we course along ancient paths, passing through the Orcia Valley and Pienza. Here, do as the Italians do and stop for a coffee in the town’s oldest bar, then return to our hotel on routes known only to local cyclists. Tonight we dine at our hotel and learn the true meaning of buon appetito .

Meals: Lunch / Dinner Destinations : San Quirico D’Orcia, Pienza Accomplished : 26 miles / 42 km (16 km of which are on gravel roads) , elevation gain: 2,253 feet / 687 meters Accommodations : Palazzo del Capitano

A Taste of L’Eroica Montalcino

L’Eroica—meaning “The Heroic”—is an event that celebrates the golden age of cycling. It takes place every October when thousands of hardened cyclists travel back in time to ride these gravel roads on primitive machines of the past. The heavy lugged-steel bikes with down-tube shifters and impossible gear ratios are no match for the red wine in the participants’ water bottles and the hardman (and hardwoman) mentality. Today, we’ll get our own taste of cycling’s heroic origins as we join one of the toughest gravel sections of L’Eroica Montalcino: a 14-kilometer climb where the maximum gradient is a challenging 12 percent. Ride through the heart of Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany’s most celebrated wine region, and stop for lunch at a winery owned by a passionate local and former pro cyclist whose business honors the region’s rich cycling history. We’ll continue through the town of Castiglione d’Orcia before returning to our hotel, where our soigneurs are waiting to reward us with well-deserved massages. Tonight, we’re invited to a very special farm-to-table dinner, prepared with ingredients that are crafted completely by local hands.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Destinations : Buonconvento, Castiglion del Bosco, Castiglione d’Orcia Accomplished: 56 miles / 90 km (33 km of which are on gravel roads) , elevation gain: 6,400 feet / 1,951 meters Accommodations : Palazzo del Capitano

Strade Bianche Pro Race Recon

All the professional teams have arrived in Siena, ready to test their legs on tomorrow’s race course. We will do the same, previewing the final 54 kilometers of the men’s pro course which also appears on Sunday’s Gran Fondo route. Team cars and pro riders will cross paths with our peloton as we pass through the mythical Monte Sante Marie gravel section dedicated to Fabian Cancellara—the only rider to win the race three times. We arrive in Siena via the infamous Santa Caterina climb, emerging into the iconic Piazza del Campo where lunch is waiting. In the afternoon, our pro soigneurs will prepare our legs for the big cycling weekend ahead. Tonight, explore Siena on your own for dinner—your guides can share their favorite trattorias or where to find the best truffle dishes in town.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch Destinations : Asciano, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Siena Accomplished: 55 miles / 88 km (28 km of which are on gravel roads) , elevation gain: 5,206 feet / 1,587 meters Accommodations : Grand Hotel Continental Siena

All the Action of Strade Bianche Race Day

The excitement of race day is in the air! Wake up at the center of the cycling world and walk to see the women’s race depart, then mingle at the buzzing team buses before we take a spin of our own. It’s a short ride to lunch at our friend Serena’s house and in true Italian fashion, she’s spent days at the stove in anticipation of our arrival. This afternoon, witness firsthand the speed and fury of the Strade Bianche race, in which professionals like Tadej Pogačar, Wout van Aert, and Julian Alaphilippe battle over the same gravel roads we’ve been riding. We’ll practically touch the action as it speeds past Serena’s house— don’t be rattled if the pros take one of the steepest gravel sections a bit faster than we did. After the race breezes by, take a lift in the van to our hotel in the heart of Siena. Tonight’s dinner at the best pizzeria in town will fuel us for the challenge that awaits us tomorrow.

Meals:  Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Destinations : Pieveasciata, Pianella Accomplished : 24 miles / 39 km, elevation gain: 2,007 feet / 612 meters Accommodations : Grand Hotel Continental Siena

The Gran Fondo Strade Bianche

Now that we’ve feasted on fine food and wine, tested our legs on some of the region’s precipitous climbs, and refined our technical skills on gravel roads, it all culminates in the Gran Fondo Strade Bianche. The annual big ride includes some of the most challenging sections of gravel in Bella Toscana! Wake up in the medieval walled city of Siena—our hotel is mere meters from where the legendary route begins and ends hours later, after the brutal climb up Via Santa Caterina and the finish in Piazza del Campo. After the race, we’ll regroup in the city center and have lunch before recovering at the hotel with another treatment from our soigneur. Tonight, reflect on a fabulous week of riding as we indulge in a celebratory dinner at one of Siena’s best restaurants.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Destinations : Siena Accomplished (Medio Fondo) : 54 miles / 87 km (22 km of which are on gravel roads) , elevation gain: 4,176 feet / 1,273 meters (545 meters on gravel) Longer Option (Gran Fondo) : 86 miles / 139 km (55 km of which are on gravel roads) , elevation gain: 6,668 feet / 2,033 meters (1,285 meters on gravel) Accommodations : Grand Hotel Continental Siena

Arrivederci

Our last morning in Tuscany presents plenty of options: sleep in, savor a slow breakfast, or take a final stroll around Siena. Your guides will return you to the Siena train station, bidding you farewell before you depart for your next destination.

Meals: Breakfast Destinations: Siena, Chiusi

DuVine itineraries may be subject to slight route changes, hotel substitutions, and other modifications.

Arrival Details

Departure details, travelers take note.

Upon booking this tour, you will be asked to complete a short form. We use this information to ensure all Level 4 trip participants are adequately prepared for our most difficult riding and have proximate cycling experience to the rest of the group.

Given the nature of the biking and the roads on this route, you will be riding on gravel every day. Please note that e-bikes cannot be reserved for this tour.

To participate in the Gran Fondo Strade Bianche, you must complete a mandatory health certificate and have it certified by your physician prior to traveling.

Weather by Month

Average Temperature + Precipitation

Inclusions + Details

Accommodations

• Thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region in ideal riding locations
• Luggage transfers
• Daily breakfasts, all lunches, and 4 cyclist-friendly dinners at our favorite local restaurants and renowned culinary establishments
• Nutritious energy snacks, hydration, and shakes to support endurance and recovery
• Local wines and beer with every meal
• Wine tastings and activities as outlined in the tour itinerary
• Entrance fees to historic sites, museums, parks, and all other exclusive events
• Gratuities for baggage, porters, and hotel service
• Top-of-the-line Cannondale carbon fiber road bike
• Exclusive Rapha x DuVine jersey, socks, and cycling cap
• Complimentary DuVine gear, including a DuVine t-shirt, water bottle, and drawstring bag
• GPS with pre-programmed route maps
• Expert bilingual guide with extensive cycling experience and local knowledge
• Support vehicle that follows the day’s route, distributes refreshments, and offers lifts
• Pick-up and drop-off before and after your tour from predetermined meeting points
• Laundry service provided mid-week
• Daily bike maintenance to ensure optimal performance
• Dinner on one free night
• Travel Protection

See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.

Synapse 2 RLE Custom

Manufacturer: Cannondale

Included in trip price

• Tour Guides

Marco Lombardi

Valentino Trapani

Marco Dal Bo

Tom Coppock

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Short Escape Gravel Tuscany

Adventure Unpaved & Escape the Crowds

Val d’Orcia to Siena on gravel road

Gravel Tuscany Bike tour’s Wow Moments

• Shadow the hilly path of L’Eroica, Tuscany’s internationally recognized vintage bike race.
• ancient cellars, taste superb Tuscan wines, from Vino Nobile di Montepulciano to Brunello di Montalcino.
• Experience the serenity of the Tuscan countryside and savour the flavours of authentic pasta fresca.
• Explore the undulating white gravel roads of Tuscany—the famed strade bianche—and immerse your self in Italy’s most classic cycling local.
• Caffé espresso, cappuccino & best gelato

Most people choose to ride gravel to escape traffic and get off the beaten roads, exploring the hill town tahta made Tuscany so famous.  The amount of pavement varies from destination to destination, but one thing holds true, once you are on gravel, you’ll encounter minimal traffic.

This is a short escape – 4 nights in case you do not have entire week or you want  just to test gravel biking in the legendary white roads

Meet & Greet in Pienza, the purest renaissance town in the world, for welcome and bike fitting. Pienza the “perfect town” is a remarkable example of Renaissance-era town planning. If you have even the least appreciation for beautiful architecture, it is a treat to stroll around its cobblestone streets. If you arrive in time there will be a First test bike ride to Palazzo Massaini, Montefollonico

Distance 25 km /15 miles 12 km asphalt and 13 km gravel – Easy to Moderate

Your tour starts with a circular ride from Pienza. Spring brings red poppy blossoms to the vibrant green wheat fields of Tuscany, and nowhere is the bloom more brilliant than the hills of the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we pedal through these corridors of proud cypress trees, the scenery may look familiar from such films as Gladiator and The English Patient. Follow the gravel tracks off the beaten path through a timeless slice of Tuscany. You’ll come to Montepulciano, the jewel of southern Tuscany, full of Renaissance palaces. After relaxing a while, you will face a incredible breathtaking yet challenge gravel section that bring you to Monticchiello, the quintessential Tuscan hill town. back in the valley, next destination is Bagno Vignoni, a thermal spa town that dates back to Roman times, Madonna di Vita Leta chapel is on the way back to Pienza

distance 52 km /31 miles 17 km asphalt and 34 km gravel moderate difficulty

To get from Pienza to Montalcino we select the sections of Eroica called Lucignano d’asso and Pieve A Salti. You leave Pienza and after 6 km on paved road you will take with white road toward Cosona and reach the little hamlet of Lucignano – a caffe espresso at little shop emporio – is a must. Once you reach the paved road you ride only one km and start the other Eroica gravel section Pieve a Salti – so beautiful landscape. 9 km up and down in the rural countryside! arrive in Buonconvento by lunch time. Now you have to face the climb to the famed wine town of Montalcino. A total of 10 km: 5 on paved and 5 km on gravel all through vineyards and wineries. Once in town we strongly suggest to visit the fortress and admire the breath-taking view of the entire valley you’ve just biked. At dinner tonight reward yourself with a glass of Brunello!

distance 41 km /25 miles 17 km asphalt and 24 km gravel moderate difficulty

L’Eroica—meaning “The Heroic”—is a celebration of the golden age of cycling. The event takes place every October when thousands of hardened cyclists travel back in time to ride these gravel roads on primitive machines of the past. The heavy lugged-steel bikes with down-tube shifters and impossible gear ratios are no match for the red wine in the participant’s water bottles and the hardman mentality. Today, we’ll have our own taste of cycling’s heroic origins as we join one of the most beautiful gravel sections of L’Eroica. From the heart of Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany’s most celebrated wine region, ride to the top Passo del Lume Spento. In fact starts the Castiglion del bosco gravel section. Castiglion del bosco is the biggest brunello winery & farm belonging to Ferragamo, the famous Italian fashion designer. Once in Bibbiano another section called la Piana and reach Murlo after 30 km- caffé & visit! Shortly you will face another legendary Eroica section to Radi, with some steep yet short up and down. At Ville di Corsano you deserve a light lunch. from here you have the last 12 km on secondary paved road to Siena.

Distance 56 km /35 miles 32 km asphalt and 24 km gravel moderate to challenge

End of Tour after Breakfast

best period rom March 15th to November 15th

Difficulty moderate to challenge.

TOUR REVIEWS

Tour reviews.

This local company knows all the routes, period hotels, and local restaurants. The equipment and logistics are superb and well orchestrated. They are very responsive before and during the trip. This is our 2nd time touring with Cicloposse. We came back because the first time was a great experience. The gravel tour following l’Eroica is very special.

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Price & Inclusions

Cost: € 1150 per person – Price based on double accommodations

single room supplement € 550

Four nights in excellent five, four & three-star superior hotels Four breakfasts All Baggage transfers RideWithGPS App: tracks, route notes, off-line navigation Trip notes: Sightseeing & meals suggestions Maps with elevation gain Delivery bike at Pienza hotel & bike fitting Pick-up of bikes and gear in Siena Keepsake Cicloposse water bottle Sales taxes

Not Included

Bike Rental per entire tour

GRAVEL OR E-Bike         euro 150

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NEW 2024: Off the beaten track

Tuscany Gravel

Ride the famous ‘strade bianche’ white gravel roads of Tuscany, explore the medieval towns and enjoy world-famous Tuscan food and wine on this dream trip in September 2022.

Highlights:

• The famous gravel roads of the ‘L’Eroica’ and ‘Strade Bianche’ races
• The gorgeous Val d’Orcia UNESCO World Heritage area
• The historic towns and villages, including stays in Pienza and Castellina in Chianti
• Rest day in Siena with its countless monuments to take you back in time
• The wine regions of Chianti, Brunello and Vino Nobile

Below is a summary of our itinerary. Full details including altitude profiles are in our brochure .

Friday September 2nd: Overnight flight to Rome, Italy.

Saturday September 3rd:   Arrival in Rome, group transfer to Pienza (3 hrs)  We’ll be there to greet you at Rome airport. Our private bus will take you to our hotel in Pienza where we’ll be staying for the first two nights. Assembly of bikes or pick-up of rental bike. We’ll have time to explore the historic town center in the afternoon.

Sunday September 4th: Val d’Orcia (distance: 51 mi, vertical: 5,000 ft, 17 miles gravel) After only three miles we’ll hit the first gravel stretch on our first ride. Mid morning we can stop for a quick cappuccino in Montepulciano, one of the most famous Tuscan hill top towns. We continue our ride through Val d’Orcia, a place of exceptional beauty and UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll loop back to Pienza via some of the shooting locations of the movie ‘Gladiator’.

Monday September 5th: Pienza to Siena (55 mi, 5,000 ft, 28 miles gravel) A tough stage that includes long gravel stretches of the famous L’Eroica and Strade Bianche races. We’ll be mostly in remote rural areas where we can enjoy the Tuscan countryside at its best. The pool at our hotel on the outskirts of Siena will be well appreciated after this epic day!

Tuesday September 6th: L’Eroica Chianti Section (50 mi, 4,800 ft, 16 miles gravel) More classic gravel roads today when we ride the section of L’Eroica through the hills of the Chianti region. We’ll pass by famous vineyards around the towns of Radda and Gaiole. The last gravel stretch of the day is at the Castello di Brolio castle with spectacular views.

Wednesday September 7th: Rest Day Time to recover! We have arranged for a guided walk in Siena in the morning. You can spend the rest of the day at the hotel’s pool or enjoy this incredible medieval city.

Thursday September 8th: Siena to Vescine (53 mi, 5,400 ft, 23 miles gravel) After three nights it is time to say goobye to Siena. Hopefully the rest day has brought your climbing legs back in shape because you’ll need them today. There are some steep gravel roads on the menu! After our first gravel sector of the day, we’ll pass by the 13th century Monteriggioni castle which we can enter and explore. Shortly after we’ll ride through Colle di Val d’Elsa, a great place for a coffee stop. Later we’ll see the famous towers of San Gimignano from a distance. We can have lunch in the town of Poggibonsi before some more steep climbing on our way to hotel Borgo di Vescine, an entire medieval hamlet which has been restored and now is an upscale resort with an award-winning restaurant. It is in a peaceful setting with a great pool and its own winery.

Friday September 9th: Chianti Loop (50 mi, 6,500 ft, 9 mi gravel) Mostly paved roads today but that doesn’t mean that it will be an easy ride. The longest gravel section comes early in the ride after the climb to Volpaia, renowned for its excellent wines. After a brief coffee stop at the main square of Greve, we have a steep climb on the way to the impressive Badia di Passignano Abbey. A short but steep gravel climb is just before our lunch in Tavarnelle. Then one more steep climb and some longer easier grades on our way back to Borgo di Vescine.

Saturday September 10th: Early ride and afternoon transfer (24 mi, 2,400 ft, 5 mi gravel) We’ll go for a beautiful short ride in the morning with two more gravel stretches. The second is a rough and steep four miles uphill section. Back at the hotel we’ll shower, pack the bikes (if you brought your own) and have lunch. A private bus will take us to our hotel near Rome airport in the afternoon. We’ll have a celebratory dinner tonight to mark the end of our trip.

Sunday September 11th: Flight home The hotel shuttle will take you to the airport for your flight home.

This trip includes:

• Private group airport transfers to/from Rome airport
• Eight nights of hotels, including all breakfasts and dinners
• Fully supported rides, with guides on bikes and support vehicle
• Water, snacks and fruit on the rides

This trip is designed for gravel bikes. You can bring your own or rent one for $400 for the trip.

Price: $3,495 per person in a shared double/twin room. Single room supplement: $895

See our brochure for more details or  contact us for more information.

Ready to book? Use our online sign-up form .

Tuscany – ambitious

Florence, Pisa, Siena. A hilly landscape and cypresses decorating the alleys. These are the first pictures that come to our minds when we think of Tuscany. This ambitious Tuscany cycling vacation offers all that – and adds some impressing insider’s tips along the route: the 34°C warm thermal waterfalls of Saturnia, small towns on hills with an unforgettable view, a typical Tuscan dinner in a countryside garden restaurant – and at the end of the tour a stay on the sea. Immerse into la dolce vita della bella Italia!

• Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Siena
• Saturnia hot waterfalls
• Hilly landscape and unforgettable views
• Overnight stay by the sea

Individual arrival in Pisa. Get an overview of the old maritime republic that Pisa used to be. You reach the historic center easily from your hotel. Overnight in Pisa.

After breakfast you get on your bike for the first day’s stage. First, you ride through the innertown, passing directly the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Afterwards, you ride along a river to Lucca city. Lucca impresses with its huge, circling, medieval city wall that is fully intact. You cross the historic old town where you can marvel the beautiful streets and squares. Leaving the center, you pass the impressing aqueduct. You continue in flat country. Later, you reach the Arno River and get finally to Florence. You can immerse into the vital city and explore the city center on the evening. If you extend your stay in Florence (see Extras), you will have time on the following day for visiting the Uffizi Gallery or the Palazzo Pitti. Overnight in Florence.

Meals: breakfast

Altitude difference: 540 m – Level of difficulty: 3/5

After a large breakfast, you leave Florence and reach immediately a more hilly area. This is where the wine producing Chianti region starts, holding ready for you breathtaking views. In the early afternoon, you see a medieval town with towers on a hill – this is San Gimignano, your next destination. Leaving the City of Towers, you enjoy the nature and other beautiful villages on your way to Siena. Siena is rightly said to be one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany and Italy. Here you can stroll around the calm historic center. It’s UNESCO world heritage. Those who want to extend their stay in Siena (see Extras) can test the pub scene at night and visit the many palaces and museums on the next day. Overnight in Siena.

Altitude difference: 1,700 m – Level of difficulty: 4/5

Today you enjoy another beautiful day in Tuscany. Leaving Siena, you ride over hills to the famous L’Eroica cycle track. You ride on white gravel roads, the “Strade Bianche”, and under Italian cypresses. Around noon, you reach the pretty mountain town of Montalcino. Here, you can visit the fortress and have lunch in one of the many restaurants. After that, you continue on beautiful paths, through small villages, and you pass a swimming area that is recharged by a nearby ancient thermal spring. Later that day, you reach Pienza where you can visit the cathedral and enjoy the view down the hill from the main square. Overnight in Pienza.

Altitude difference: 1,540 m – Level of difficulty: 3/5

Soon after you start the day’s stage, you can see the famous Monte Amiata, and you cycle toward it. Crossing fields, you reach mountainous gravel paths, and then you ride along beautiful country roads to Abbadia San Salvatore, submontane of Monte Amiata. In Abbadia, you can have lunch. Afterwards, you pass a fortress and you ride over country lanes, typical Tuscan gravel roads, through wine-growing areas and to Etruscan graves that are worth a visit. Finally, you reach your countryside hotel where a dinner is served to you in a pretty garden restaurant tonight. If you want, you can ride to the incredible thermal waterfalls of Saturnia that are sulfurous and 34°C warm (route is included in your GPS data). Overnight in Saturnia area.

Meals: breakfast, dinner

Altitude difference: 1,910 m – Level of difficulty: 4/5

We highly recommend to get up early today. Ride to the thermal waterfalls of Saturnia before sunrise and enjoy the sunup in the 34°C warm, steaming water. This in an unforgettable experience. After a shower at your hotel, you can have breakfast and then slowly start to your last day’s stage. Today you ride in the direction of the sea. Shortly, you ride uphill, afterwards it’s only getting down. You leave the hilly landscape and reach your destination at the Mediterranean Sea around noon. You can spend the afternoon either at the beach or with a walk through the historically interesting coast town of Talamone. Overnight in Talamone area.

Altitude difference: 360 m – Level of difficulty: 1/5

Depending on the desired time for the transfer to Pisa, it is worth taking a last short walk to the sea after breakfast. Transfer to Pisa. Individual departure or extension (see Extras).

Included services:

• 6 nights in double room
• Visitor’s tax
• 6x breakfast
• Luggage transfer
• Transfer from Talamone to Pisa (Day 7) incl. bike transfer
• Phone assistance
• Tour documents
• Secured payment certificate
• Spot in a monitored parking garage during the tour (6 nights) (60 EUR)
• Rental gravel bike: Lombardo Sram 1×11, or similar model (210 EUR per bike)
• Extension of stay at one of the overnight places (from 75 EUR p. p.)

All partner accommodations are middle class accommodations. When we chose a partner accommodation, it’s important to us that they all have anything that is particular. If available, the accommodations’ specialties on our Tuscany tour are:

• Bike friendly (all)
• Overnight in the middle of the old town
• Family-run hotel
• Room with beautiful view
• Overnight stay right by the sea

Dates and prices

1 April 2024 – 16 June 2024 and 1 September 2024 – 10 November 2024

General information

40% gravel, 55% asphalt, 5% unpaved

5 Day stages

Altitude difference: 6,700 m

Level of difficulty: 4/5 (Tough)

Nearest airports: Pisa, Florence By intercity bus: Pisa By car: Pisa By train: Pisa Centrale

Please take account of the travel and safety notice of your home country for Italy, and the regions Tuscany and Lacio, as same as the applicable regulations in these areas.

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May to October 7 Nights 3/5 - Standard from 649 EUR p. p. in DBL

Apr.-Jun. and Sep.-Nov. 9 Nights 2/5 - Refreshing 1,739 EUR p. p. in DBL

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Tuscany bike tour

Bikeriding tuscany.

BIKERIDING TUSCANY GUIDED TOUR – ONLY THE BICYCLE CHAIN CAN GIVE YOUFREEDOM – Luigi

BIKERIDING TUSCANY GUIDED TOUR

ONLY THE BICYCLE

CHAIN CAN GIVE YOUFREEDOM – Luigi

Our mission

Bikeriding Tuscany Guided Tour

We are a bike tour company and have made our passion for cycling our lifestyle

Our mission is to guide our guests to discover cycling the uniqueness of this Land.

It will be a pleasure to introduce you to the true Italian style with our wines, foods, cooking art and our artistic heritage.

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TUSCANY TRAIL 2024

May 24-25, 2024, departure / arrival: castagneto carducci.

registrations are sold out

Looking for a gravel adventure on the most beautiful coastline in Tuscany? Go here. Or a bikepacking trip on the roads of Slovenia? Click here.

WHAT IS THE TUSCANY TRAIL

The world's largest bikepacking event.

The Tuscany Trail is the world’s largest bikepacking event, proudly held every year in the beautiful region of Tuscany. Each time, thousands of enthusiasts from over 50 different countries sign up.

By joining the Tuscany Trail, you’ll embark on a unique adventure covering 470 km and climbing around 6,500 meters. This journey will take you through magical forests and ancient historical centers.

The Tuscany Trail isn’t a race but rather a personal challenge that will leave you with memories and feelings to cherish for a lifetime.

To date, it boasts the highest attendance for any bikepacking event, with 4,700 participants.

The route will be one long lap; you decide where & when to stop to eat and where & when (and if) to stop to sleep. Absolute freedom of choice.

Follow the whole route thanks to the GPS track that will be sent to you after registering. You have to follow the whole route without shortcuts. 

SELF-SUPPORTED

No assistance from the organizers, and no support vehicles in tow; just you and your bike.

NO-STOPWATCH

There is no time limit; you decide the pace and the time of arrival at the finish. Regardless it shall be a great adventure.

THE ROUTE 2024

Ring route - start/finish at castagneto carducci.

The quest for the “perfect” route began way back in 2007 and is still ongoing. Tuscany is a region of breathtaking beauty, offering cyclists the ideal paths to ride.

The route for the Tuscany Trail 2024 will only be unveiled a few days before registration opens. However, as with every year, we’re committed to providing a track with less tarmac, fewer unnecessary miles, and a concentrated dose of stunning views.

You’ll ride along the famous White Roads, through vineyards, dense forests, and past ancient historic centers. The route will be diverse, featuring white roads, trails, dirt tracks, and some paved roads. You’ll find that there’s always a surprise waiting around every bend, from start to finish.

We have something big in store for the Tuscany Trail 2024. If you want to take a guess, follow us on our social media platforms, I nstagram  and  Facebook .

GET OUT OF THE DAILY ROUTINE

Taking part in the Tuscany Trail means diving into a genuine adventure.

Tackling all the miles to the finish line won’t be straightforward, and you’ll surely encounter some unexpected challenges. But, after all, that’s exactly what everyone seeks in this amazing experience.

The Tuscany Trail gives you a chance to break free from the daily grind, to step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the natural rhythm set by the sunrise and sunset.

For the truly brave at heart, this is the perfect opportunity to sleep under a starlit sky, wrapped in the warmth of a tent or the simplicity of a sleeping bag.

AN ORGANIZED EVENT

A team of people behind the event.

While it’s an “unsupported” event, registering for the Tuscany Trail means joining an exceptionally well-organized event.

The day before the start, you’ll be warmly welcomed into the so-called “village,” which, over the years, has become a gathering spot where you can start soaking up the event’s laid-back vibe. Here, you’ll have the chance to forge new friendships with fellow participants, check out sponsor booths, and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Tuscany Trail. We’ll provide convenient parking, showers, and a dedicated team ready to greet you with the utmost hospitality.

The GPS track you’ll receive is the culmination of months of hard work, showcasing the best that Tuscany has to offer any cycling enthusiast.

INSIDE THE STORY

As the name implies, the Tuscany Trail unfolds in the stunning region of Tuscany, renowned for its exceptionally beautiful medieval and Renaissance town centers. Awaiting you are enchanting villages where time seems to have stood still since the early 1500s. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon local festivals showcasing thrilling historical reenactments. Among the many places you’ll pass through, you’ll have the chance to delve into the historic centers of some of the world’s most captivating cities, including Volterra, San Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni, Pienza, and Castiglione della Pescaia.

THE LANDSCAPE

Pedaling on the windows desktop​.

The Tuscany Trail offers an experience that will guide you through landscapes that are breathtakingly unique and unparalleled in the world. This is nature shaped by the human touch, showcasing its astonishing beauty in full bloom.

You’ll be surrounded by endless rows of cypress trees, picturesque country homes, pristine medieval villages, roads etched into tuff stone, and awe-inspiring marble quarries. You’ll also have the chance to marvel at the captivating patterns of the Maremma region, which emerge amidst striking tombolos and dunes.

Your journey will end with a crystal-clear sea that laps against sun-drenched islands. All this and so much more await you on the Tuscany Trail 2024.

TUSCAN CUISINE

A 360° experience.

Your journey through Tuscany will take you to a land renowned for its unmatched reputation in the world of gastronomy. Tuscany is famed for its cuisine, boasting traditional dishes and desserts made from age-old recipes passed down through generations. Here, you’ll find artisans skilled in crafting white meats and game, with the renowned Florentine steak standing as a true culinary icon. Moreover, you’ll discover a wide range of “peasant” dishes, which, despite their meatless nature, offer extraordinary flavors, such as soups, pappa al pomodoro, and “ribollita”. You’ll have the chance to savor delicious sandwiches stuffed with unsalted bread slices, paired with exquisite cured meats and cheeses, rivaling dishes from starred restaurants. Dinner will become an unforgettable experience when you get to taste the extensive selection of local wines, such as those from the Consorzio Tutela Vini della Maremma Toscana ( consortium for the protectium of Maremma Toscana wines) which offers a significant variety of indigenous grape varieties like Ciliegiolo, Alicante, Ansonica, and Vermentino. Your journey will be a deep dive into the culinary delights of Tuscany.

MEDIA COVERAGE

By your side to create media content.

Your participation in the event will be in the spotlight, along with other participants. Throughout the Tuscany Trail, we’ll have a team of photographers and videographers capturing unforgettable moments in real time for the duration of the event.

Drones, video cameras, professional cameras, and all necessary tools will be used to ensure you have outstanding memories of your adventure. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even get the chance to share your experience in an exclusive interview.

At the end of the event, we’ll provide you with all the photos and videos to keep your memories alive forever.

MEDICAL CERTIFICATE

All participants are REQUIRED to submit a valid “Health Certificate for cardiovascular intensive sport activity (cycling races/events).” The medical certificate must expire after 30 June 2024. If the medical certificate is not compliant, it will be refused and canceled, and the member will have to forward a new compliant one. The medical certificate must be specific for CYCLING. We cannot accept medical certificates issued for other sports such as triathlon, athletics, etc. You can use this template. Anyone who does not comply with this requirement will not be considered regularly registered and will not be entitled to a refund of the registration fee. Each participant must declare in accordance with the D.P.R. no. 445 of 28 December 2000 that the documents he forwarded are authentic and correspond to the originals in his possession. The valid certificate must be uploaded to the dedicated area by April 15, 2024. Download here the template (for non-Italian participants only)

HOW TO UPLOAD THE MEDICAL CERTIFICATE

Within your account (“My account” in the menu), you can independently upload your medical certificate, which must be in .pdf or .jpg format (size maximum file size 2 Mb), and enter the expiry date of the certificate (the medical certificate is valid for 1 year).

ARE REGISTRATIONS LIMITED?

A limited number of 5,000 participants.

WHAT IS REQUIRED TO REGISTER?

Nothing at the time of registration. It is enough to complete the procedure. Subsequently, you must send the medical certificate through the new section you will find on the site (you no longer have to send the medical certificate by email).

HOW DOES THE START OF THE TUSCANY TRAIL 2024 WORK? The start is set at Parco delle Sughere Via Vecchia Aurelia, 1, 57022 Donoratico LI. A maximum of 2,500 people will be made to start on Friday, May 24, and a maximum of 2,500 people on Saturday, May 25. The day of departure must be chosen at the time of registration. Those who choose to start on Friday, May 24, must pick up their event packet on Thursday, May 23, in the afternoon or Friday, May 24, in the morning. Those who choose to start on Saturday, May 25, must pick up the event packet on Friday, May 24, in the afternoon or Saturday, May 25, in the morning. Once registered, it is not possible to change the date to pick up the event packet. The start time is free, starting at sunrise 05:45 am. The exact times will be announced in the digital guide given to each registered person.

IS THERE A TIME LIMIT TO COMPLETE THE TUSCANY TRAIL 2024?

The organization will guarantee its presence until Thursday, May 30th, inside the Parco delle Sughere with bar service. What happens if you arrive after May 30th? You will still be considered a finisher but need help finding the guaranteed services. However, a large supermarket and two restaurants are in front of the park.

HOW TO GET TO THE DEPARTURE POINT AND REGISTRATION

The starting point and registration of the Tuscany Trail 2024 is: Parco delle Sughere Via Vecchia Aurelia, 1, 57022 Donoratico LI By plane: the nearest airport is Pisa (Pisa International Airport) By train: the closest station is Castagneto Carducci-Donoratico, 900 meters from the departure point. By car: 500 meters from the E80 Donoratico exit.

WHAT IS THE MOST SUITABLE BIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE TUSCANY TRAIL?

This is definitely one of the most frequently asked questions by participants. Let’s say right away that the track is designed to be covered by a MTB. The route is extremely varied, consisting of dirt roads, asphalt secondary roads, and paths. Over the years, participants in the Tuscany Trail have used all types of bikes, from cyclocross (and gravel bikes, of course) to enduring bikes. The truth is that there is no single answer to this question. If you use a gravel bike, you will go very fast on the sections of dirt roads and asphalt, but you will find yourself a bit in trouble along the paths and cart roads, while if you use an MTB, you will face all dirt roads with great ease, but you will be disadvantaged on asphalt.

ARE THERE ANY PRE-ARRANGED STOPS? WHERE DO I SLEEP, AND WHERE DO I EAT?

The Tuscany Trail is defined as a “no-stop” event in the sense that there are no fixed stops, but each participant can freely decide where to stop, eat, and sleep along the way. Our advice is to study the route before leaving to get an idea of the possible stops you will make.

HOW DO I FIND FACILITIES ALONG THE WAY TO EAT AND SLEEP? DO YOU HAVE ANY AGREEMENTS WITH SOME FACILITIES?

We do not have any kind of convention along the way. The best way to find a place at the best possible price is to take advantage of technology and in particular, make use of booking.com and Google Maps. The deals you will find on these two sites are the absolute best, and even we couldn't get that much with a possible convention. Google Maps allows you to figure out where a facility is located and how many miles separate you from it while booking.com allows you to book online. This year, there will be equipped areas with restrooms and showers, they will be marked in the digital guide you will receive after registration.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FINISHING POINT?

During opening hours, you will have the opportunity to eat and drink at the Parco delle Sughere bar. If you arrive at night (outside the park opening hours indicated in the guide), you may not find anything open to eat.

REGISTRATION ARE ALREADY CLOSED, IS THERE A CHANCE TO REGISTER?

There is no option to register for the Tuscany Trail outside of the official registration date. Unfortunately, we receive many emails from people requesting to register when registration has already closed. The registration period lasts for months and that is the only time you can register. We strongly recommend that you sign up and read our newsletter regularly; we will be the ones to remind you of useful dates.

I AM REGULARLY REGISTERED, BUT I CAN'T PARTICIPATE. IS THERE A REFUND?

Per our regulations that you must read before registering, there is no refund/ partial refund/transfer of registration to the following year.

CANCELLATION OR SHIFTING OF THE EVENT

Cancellation – If, for reasons of force majeure that do not depend on the organization but on environmental and/or health reasons at a national or international level, the event cannot take place, the amount paid at the time of registration will not be refunded but will be considered valid for the next edition. The organization will be entitled, for those who re-register free of charge to the next edition, to a contribution for secretarial expenses and the renewal of the sports card. Shifting of the event – Furthermore, for reasons of force majeure or other serious reasons, which could jeopardize the preparation of the event or the participation in it by several people, not less than half of the members, the Organization reserves the right to move the place and / or date of the event within the same calendar year. In this case, the registration fee will be valid for the event on the rescheduled date without additional costs for the members. In this case, it is not possible to move the registration to the following year’s edition.

E-bikes are allowed on the Tuscany Trail.

Tailwind on every ride? – See e-bike trips

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California Wine Country Bike Tour

Croatia and The Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour

Mallorca 7-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

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Tuscany 3-Day Weekend Self-Guided Bike Tour 2024

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discover:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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• Rent a gravel bike in Siena and Tuscany
• Bike Rental in Tuscany

Rent a gravel bike to ride on the road of L'Eroica and Strade Bianche.

1 Day: 40,00 € 7 Days: 255,00 €

SCOTT SPEEDSTER GRAVEL 30 The SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 is your one stop do-it-all shop for when the path gets less travelled. With a Shimano drivetrain, some rugged Schwalbe G-One tyres and Syncros components, the Speedster Gravel 30 is well equipped for any and all adventures. A bike  born for those who want to explore other routes at the limit between road and off-road. It is ideal for those looking for a completely different bike compared to the pure road bike, being ideal for asphalt, dirt and mixed terrain. The perfect bike to ride along the route of L'Eroica or the classic Strade Bianche. We kindly suggest to reserve in advance the bike.   RESERVE A BIKE 

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Frame:  Speedster Gravel Disc / D.Butted 6061 AlloyEndurance geometry / Integrated Headtube Fork:  Speedster Carbon Disc1 1/8″-1 1/4″ Carbon steerer Rear Derailleur: Shimano GRX RD-RX40020 Speed Front Derailleur:  Shimano GRX FD-RX400-F Shifters:  Shimano GRX ST-RX400 Disc20 Speed Crankset: Shimano GRX FC-RX600-104 6x30T BB-Set: Shimano BB-RS500 Cassette: Shimano CS-HG50010 Speed 11-34 T Brakes: Shimano BR-RX400 Hyd Disc Seat:  Syncros Tofino Regular 2.5 Tires:  700x35C PRICES 1 Day: 35,00 € 7 Days: 235,00 €

BIANCHI IMPULSO ALLROAD 105

The Bianchi Impulso allroad is a bike for many experiences: road, tourism and gravel. Made for those who over time have wanted to change their approach to road bikes. A mountain bike, a road bike, a gravel, a trekking bike born for those who want to explore other routes at the limit between road and off-road. It is ideal for those looking for a completely different bike compared to the pure road bike, being ideal for asphalt, dirt and mixed terrain. The perfect bike to ride along the route of L'Eroica or the classic Strade Bianche. We kindly suggest to reserve in advance the bike.  RESERVE A BIKE 

Frame: Impulso Allroad Alu Fork:  Bianchi Full carbon 1.1/8" Rear derailleur:  Shimano GRX 600 Front derailleur:  Shimano GRX 600 Shifters:  Shimano GRX 600 Crank set:  Shimano GRX 600 FC-RX600 46x30T Cassette:  11-34T Brakes: Shimano BR-RS505 Tires: 700x35 or 700x38  

1 Day: 40,00 € 7 Days: 255,00 € INCLUDED WITH EVERY BIKE RENTAL

- Repair kit - Pump - Bike lock - Flat pedals  

- Helmet (mandatory) - GPX route from Siena - Front bag - Water bottle - Smartphone holder - GPS - Quick release pedals (SPD, Look, SPD-SL) - Delivery to your accommodation  

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Sepp Kuss on Tour de France GC: ‘My Best Chance to Win is if Jonas Vingegaard is There’

'gc kuss' might yet make an appearance in the 2024 tour de france. right now, it's impossible to say which version. .

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

VICHY, France (Velo) — Sepp Kuss is bracing for both the Critérium du Dauphiné and the question he knows he will be asked every day from here until the French Alps.

Will he be the GC leader of the powerful Visma-Lease a Bike team at the Tour de France if two-time defending champion Jonas Vingegaard doesn’t race?

Speaking exclusively to Velo , Kuss said he hopes Vingegaard is at the start line to defend the yellow jersey because, as he puts it bluntly, it’s better for everyone.

“My best chance of winning the Tour de France is if Jonas Vingegaard is there,” Kuss told Velo on Saturday. “I think Jonas is irreplaceable, especially in the Tour. I would hope that he is racing.”

Velo sat down with Kuss along with Visma-Lease a Bike teammate Matteo Jorgenson at the team hotel in this spa city along the edge of France’s Massif Central ahead of Sunday’s start of the eight-day Dauphiiné.

Kuss will start the prestigious and telling eight-stage race Sunday with the No. 1 bib, in part after race organizers tipped the hat to Visma-Lease a Bike as defending champions, even if Vingegaard won’t be racing here this week.

The Dane is currently camped out at altitude high in the French Alps as he and Visma-Lease a Bike teammate Wout van Aert are in a race against time to chase form ahead of the June 29 start of the Tour in Florence, Italy.

Vingegaard’s presence at the Tour in the wake of his devastating crash at Itzulia Basque Country in April remains a big question mark, and the final decision on whether or not he will race will come down to the closing days of June.

That leaves Kuss, Jorgenson, and their Visma-Lease a Bike teammates in a state of limbo.

Kuss, who remains as affable and humble as ever in the aftermath of his historic Vuelta a España victory last year, admits it’s an awkward situation in the weeks leading toward the Tour start in Tuscany.

“In the event that he isn’t racing, we still have a committed team,” Kuss said Saturday. “I think it will be hard for all of us because there will be no clear goal, like we do having Jonas on the team.”

Chasing yellow? ‘The opportunity is there’

Kuss and Jorgenson arrive in Vichy after their own altitude camp on Spain’s Sierra Nevada prepared for the most important block of racing of their respective 2024 seasons.

Jorgenson, who blew the barn doors off with victory at Paris-Nice and Dwars door Vlaanderen this spring, is expecting to play a backup role during the Tour de France, but much like Kuss, he too is facing uncertainty over his position if Vingegaard and Van Aert do not start.

“If Jonas is there, we’ll be 100 percent for the GC, and I’d be really happy to support that,” Jorgenson told Velo . “If he’s not, we will have to look at the different scenarios, and see how it would shake out.”

That uncertainty will hang over Visma-Lease a Bike all the way from here to just a few days before the grand départ in Florence.

Sport director Frans Maassen told Velo nothing for the Tour will be certain until after a team altitude camp at Tignes in late June.

“We won’t make any decisions until after the final training camp in Tignes,” Maassen told Velo on Saturday .

“We hope Jonas is ready to race, but we have to take it one step at a time. We cannot force anything,” he said. “If he is not ready, then we can look to Sepp and others to lead. It will be a different tactic if Jonas does not start.”

#Dauphine GC favourites ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Roglič ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Evenepoel, Ayuso ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Vlasov, Ca. Rodriguez, Jorgenson ⭐️⭐️ Hindley, Tiberi, Geoghegan Hart, Buitrago ⭐️ Van Wilder, Landa, Gaudu, Sivakov, Ciccone Kuss Harper Tiberi Hindley pic.twitter.com/Au5z0MIfb8 — Cyclingpills (@cyclingpills1) June 1, 2024

There’s even a possibility that Jorgenson could emerge as a GC co-leader for the Tour as well.

A lot of that depends how the Paris-Nice winner comes out of the eight-stage Dauphiné that includes high-altitude climbs the Idahoan’s never faced against the front-line favorites.

Everything is up in the air at Visma-Lease a Bike right now. If Vingegaard starts, everyone’s role is much clearer.

If he doesn’t, well, then anything could happen.

‘GC Kuss’ in no rush to take over

Kuss enters this Dauphiné with nothing to prove, and everything to gain.

Yet after winning the Vuelta, Kuss is not strutting around the peloton as if he’s the newest king of the hill.

In fact, Kuss still pinches himself when he looks back at his spectacular European racing career that includes stage wins and GC victories across some of Europe’s biggest races. The way he tells it, he never expected it to last more than a few seasons.

After emerging as the best pure climbing domestiques in modern cycling, Kuss is keeping his feet on the ground. He readily admits that he won’t be able to match the likes of Tadej Pogačar or Roglič in a straight up duel if he’s forced to, but he’s also proven to able to go the distance in decisive and important moments.

For Kuss, he’d prefer to see Vingegaard at the start line, so he can play his best cards as helper, and perhaps even make a run for yellow if things tilt his way again.

“Jonas is so talented, if he is at the start line, he will be really strong,” Kuss told Velo on Saturday. “For a lot of things, you don’t have the pressure, you can take care of yourself, rather than people taking care of you. It just makes it more simple, for me at least.

“You can play with the tactics and that partnership a bit more when Jonas is there, like I did in the Vuelta.”

Last year, Kuss made history to become only the fourth U.S. rider to officially win a grand tour.

And he’s the first to point out that he won the Vuelta thanks in large part because Vingegaard and former teammate Primož Roglič were on his team.

His race-breaking attack during the opening week of the 2023 Vuelta that eventually put him in red and on the path toward overall victory was designed put pressure on the team’s GC rivals and take pressure off Roglič and Vingegaard.

Kuss knows strength in numbers is a plus.

“I also wouldn’t have won the Vuelta if we didn’t do a tactical move to help Jonas and Primož, of putting me in that breakaway, because that was the function of that breakaway,” he said Saturday.

“It opens things up a lot more for me with better riders on the team.”

But could Kuss go all the way in the Tour as well?

He told NOS in another interview Saturday that he believes he could challenge for the final podium in Paris, but speaking with Velo , he reiterated that his best chance to win the Tour de France is if Vingegaard is race-ready in Florence.

“The opportunity is there,” Kuss said when Velo asked if he could win the yellow jersey. “If I am being honest, if I wanted to win the Tour, my chance is better with Jonas on the team than not on the team.

“If you look at it in another way, it opens up a lot of other opportunities. You can go for GC, you can go for stages,” Kuss said of a possible Vingegaard absence. “I think it’s a matter of calibrating the goals to how we feel. That’s motivating for us and the whole group.”

Kuss is simply being honest with himself and his teammates in admitting as much.

The Vingegaard and Van Aert uncertainty will be one of the biggest narratives in the coming weeks.

Yet just like last year’s Vuelta, Kuss will be ready to exploit any and all opportunities, and ride it as far as he can.

“GC Kuss” might yet make an appearance in the 2024 Tour de France.

Right now, it’s impossible to say which version.

#Dauphiné Let’s get into that Tour de France rhythm. Check out our team for Critérium du Dauphiné. pic.twitter.com/03JGv60PBX — Team Visma | Lease a Bike (@vismaleaseabike) May 31, 2024

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