We invite you to join us for this ultimate cycling experience near the beautiful beautiful city of Siena with this exclusive Tuscan adventure, centered around the iconic Strade Bianche bike race. This experience combines the thrill of witnessing this iconic race, but also an opportunity to explore the beautiful rolling Tuscan gravel hills by bike.
We have the unique privilege of joining a VIP ride with the former world champion pro rider Paolo Bettini. As a Castelli/Sportful ambassador we are delighted to team up with Paolo & Sportful who will be treating us to Paolo’s favourite routes in and around his native landscapes of Tuscany. In collaboration with Sportful, it’s our pleasure to offer each guest with a commemorative Sportful Girona Velo jersey.
On the morning of the race itself, we will ride a short section of the legendary course and then return to the Siena hotel to freshen up. Then we will head off to watch the men’s race, where we will have VIP access to the action and witness these gladiators battling it out for victory in one of cycling’s ultimate prizes.
The day after the race we will join hundreds of gravel enthusiasts to partake in the exhilarating Strade Bianche Fondo. The 142km route includes 55kms of the fairytale Tuscan gravel and 1285m of elevation and the 86km route has 22kms of gravel and 545m of elevation – both over the iconic white roads and rolling hills of the Strade Bianche. This is a perfect way to conclude this unforgettable Gravel experience.
And of course – this being Italy and better still, Tuscany, it would be amiss not to mention the food & wine of this fertile region. It’s difficult to know where to begin in this culinary mecca – but sampling some of the Tuscan favourites like ‘bistecca alla Fiorentina’ (Florentine steak), ribollita (Tuscan vegetable soup), and pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread stew) is a good place to start. Let’s also not forget to savour the flavours of Tuscan cheeses, olive oils, cured meats, and other local specialties. Every evening we invite you to indulge yourselves with authentic Tuscan meals at handpicked restaurants and trattorias.
Last but not least, we must mention the wonderful wines of this region. It would be a crime not to sample a glass of wine from Montalcino and Chianti.
Whether you’re a cycling aficionado wanting to experience the race or simply looking to explore the beauty of Tuscany on a gravel bike, this experience offers an unforgettable journey through Siena and its surroundings. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Strade Bianche race and immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning landscapes, and exquisite flavours of Tuscany.
But inevitably – the primary take-away from these experiences is the genuine camaraderie with fellow riders. Once you’ve been through these shared experiences – you truly establish a special bond with your cycling compadres. We personally believe the highlights are the post ride evenings, sitting around the dinner table, enjoying great local food & wine and replaying the day’s events with a healthy dose of chatter and humour… there is inevitably always lots of laughter.
Allow us take care of everything – so you can relish these stunning rides, eating beautiful fresh local food and sharing this unique experience with your fellow riders.
The recipe is very simple – riding through idyllic landscapes with like minded friends, quality ride support & attention, and a generous sampling of the best local food and wine…… what more does anyone need?