The Eroica route is one of the most exciting motorbike experiences that can be enjoyed in Tuscany.
It is a cycling route of about 200 km, which can also be traveled by motorbike, which winds through the hills of the region, through small villages and dreamlike landscapes.
Index:
- The history of the Eroica Route
- The stages of the Eroica Route
- The difficulties of the Eroica route
- Attractions not to be missed
- GPX files and useful tips
In this article you will find out everything there is to know about the Eroica route: the history, the stages, the difficulties and the attractions not to be missed.
The history of the Eroica Route
The Eroica route was born in 1997 thanks to the initiative of a group of vintage bicycle enthusiasts, who decided to organize a cycling race on the white trails of the Chianti area. Since then the event has evolved and today the Eroica route is one of the most famous vintage cycling races in the world. Today it is also a destination for off-road, enduro and e-bike enthusiasts.
The stages of the Eroica Route
The route winds through the hills of the Toscanabetween the provinces of Siena and Arezzo, passing through small ones villages medieval and breathtaking landscapes. The main stages are:
- Gaiole in Chianti: starting and finishing point of the itinerary
- Castello di Brolio: the route passes in front of this historic castle which dates back to the XNUMXth century
- San Quirico d'Orcia: panoramic stage with a view of the Amiata and Cetona mountains
- Buonconvento: an ancient medieval village that deserves a stop to visit the historic center
- Montalcino: famous for its Brunello wines, Montalcino is a must for lovers of good food and wine
- Radda in Chianti: another medieval village to visit for its beauty and history
- Castellina in Chianti: last stop before returning to Gaiole in Chianti
The difficulties of the Eroica route
The Eroica route develops on dirt and white roads, with challenging climbs and technical descents. The cycling event is not a race suitable for everyone, but it is an experience worth living for those who love the challenge and the beauty of nature. Physical preparation is essential to tackle the route at its best. Even those who travel it in motorcycle must pay close attention to the terrain and the curves, which are very slippery.
Attractions not to be missed
During the Eroica route there are many attractions not to be missed, including:
- Brolio Castle: to visit
- La Badia a Coltibuono: an ancient Benedictine abbey that houses a wine cellar and a renowned restaurant
- Terme di Rapolano: the thermal baths of Rapolano are an oasis of well-being immersed in the Tuscan hills, perfect for a regenerating break after the fatigue of the journey
- The Abbey of Mount Oliveto Maggiore: an impressive XNUMXth-century Cistercian abbey housing frescoes by great masters such as Luca Signorelli and Sodoma
GPX file useful tips
The Eroica route is a unique experience that allows you to discover Tuscany in a different way, through cycling routes immersed in the nature and cultural heritage of the region. To tackle the route in the best possible way, it is important to have the most suitable bike for the route, such as a maxi-enduro, a crossover or simply go slowly if you have a road bike. The surface is very dusty and slippery, therefore we recommend tires suitable for off-road, slightly knobby or scrambler type. Don't forget protections, a tire repair kit and plenty of free memory for photos and videos. Finally, don't miss the typical Tuscan products along the way, such as Chianti wine and local cuisine.
You can download the GPX file of the route by clicking this link
