L'Eroica 2026: Cycling tradition in the Chianti hills

The genesis of a cycling legend

Born in 1997 in Gaiole in Chianti, a medieval village nestled in the beating heart of the province of Siena, L'Eroica now represents an international benchmark in the vintage cycling scene. The initiative, which originally involved a small group of 92 enthusiasts, has over time transformed into a cultural movement dedicated to rediscovering the bicycle as a tool for territorial exploration and historical memory.

A landscape between history and exertion

The geographical context of the event highlights the Sienese strade bianche (white roads), dirt tracks that cross vineyards, olive groves, and fortified villages. This rural ecosystem, preserved and protected, offers athletes a dimension of authentic challenge. The value of the territory is not only aesthetic but serves as a stage for an athletic experience that favors the continuity between sporting tradition and landscape conservation.

The program and the routes

The edition scheduled for October 3rd and 4th, 2026, confirms the variety of tracks designed to test different levels of athletic preparation. The sporting proposal ranges from the Valle del Chianti Walk, a 45 km route suitable for those seeking a contemplative approach, to the prestigious Long Route. The latter, with a distance of over 210 km and an elevation gain of 3,873 meters, constitutes the technical core of the event, requiring deep dedication and rigorous management of physical effort.

Logistics and participation

The organization ensures the necessary support along the various routes, integrating refreshment points that showcase the local food and wine culture, a distinctive element of Tuscan hospitality. Participation requires careful planning, given the technical nature of the paths and the specific regulations that mandate the use of vintage bicycles, consistent with the philosophy supporting the event. For further information regarding registration methods, vehicle regulations, and race logistics, it is advisable to refer to the official organization channels.