L’eroica

Chianti is famous worldwide, but probably not everyone has heard of the tourist cycle route called the Eroica, aimed at cyclists in search of a thrill amongst the ups and downs along unpaved roads belonging to the Chianti Senese area. L’Eroica is a classic tourist cycle race. It has also had a competitive aspect for a few years now and this year it also involves one of the most demanding sections of the Giro d’Italia along its route. It winds around hills, vineyards, dense forests and pastures, which all contribute towards creating a special atmosphere. The participants always start with a spare tube over their shoulder and a woollen shirt given that the clothing of the past is mandatory. They choose from amongst the various routes: the longest is 205 km, but the majority of riders usually take part in the 75 km route due to the time needed to complete it.
Organised by the Associazione Parco Ciclistico del Chianti, this year the event will take place on 6 and 7 October with the starting line, as ever, in the square of Gaiole in Chianti and will attract, as ever, fans of “old” cycling. The race along the dusty white roads is truly lovely, an event not to be missed even by those who are not familiar with pedalling, just to witness a unique event. For the less sporty, you can combine the experience with a journey on the Treno Natura, which intersects the route at various points. This is an occasion for cycling tourism in a land like Siena, which tends towards slow living and nature. Finally, we should emphasise that this land of Terre di Siena is on the verge of establishing an actual cycle park, since pedalling in the silence that nature offers us not only means regaining our physical form, but surrounding ourselves in a reality that offers hospitality and respect for the environment; elements that genuinely exist in this charming corner of Tuscany.

(Portions of this article first appeared in "Toscana & Chianti News")
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