We invite you to join us for this ultimate cycling experience in Tuscany with this exclusive Tuscan adventure centered around the iconic Strade Bianche bike race in Siena. 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 Paolo Bettini. As a Castelli/Sportful ambassador we have teamed up with Paolo who will be treating us to his 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/Grasshopper Adventure jersey.

On the morning of the race itself, we will ride a short section of the legendary race and then return to the Siena hotel to freshen up. Then we will head off to watch the men’s race and where we can get up close and personal with 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 Bianchi Fondo. This 87KM route includes 22kms of the fairytale Tuscan gravel and  545m of elevation gain. This is a perfect way to conclude this unforgettable Tuscan 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 deep red glass of wines 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?

 Welcome to Tuscany - We transfer to your 4 star luxury accommodation, nestled in the Tuscan countryside. Once settled into our hotel - we invite you to stretch the legs & roll out for a coffee spin through the undulating Tuscan hills to whet your gravel appetite! 

Today on our first full day, we head out on the hallowed tracks of the Strade Bianche course to get a feel for these white tuscan roads and the striking landscapes of this breath-taking region.

Today we have the absolute privilege of joining a VIP ride with the former world champion - Paolo Bettini. As a son of Tuscany - he will take us on his favourite routes through this undulating Tuscan landscapes. This is an unforgettable opportunity and a memory that will stay with us for many years!

After a hearty breakfast - we head out into the rolling hills Siena. The Strade Bianche course can be challenging, with uneven surfaces and occasional steep sections. But the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of rolling hills, vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, and charming medieval villages perched on hilltops. The ever-changing scenery keeps you engaged and inspired throughout the ride.

Today is race day. After a short loop riding some of the race itself, we head back to the hotel to freshen up before transferring to get VIP access to watch the pros fight it out. Who is your money on? 

After being inspired watching the pros yesterday - today we will join hundreds of other cycling fans and fellow riders in riding the Strade Bianche Granfondo. 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 legendary white roads and rolling hills of the Strade Bianche.. This is a perfect way to conclude this unforgettable Tuscan Gravel experience

Following a typical local Tuscan breakfast, it will be time for some final ‘salutes’ and coffees, we bid you farewell and safe onward journeys. Until we meet again! 

arrivederci