L’Eroica 2026

L’Eroica 2026

Presented by Eroica
Gravel Mixed Surface
Gaiole, Italy
Oct 3–4, 2026
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About This Event

Born in 1997 from a vision to preserve Tuscany’s disappearing gravel roads and celebrate cycling’s heritage, L’Eroica has become the world’s premier vintage cycling event. Founded on the principle of rediscovering “the beauty of fatigue and the thrill of conquest,” this non-competitive celebration attracts thousands to Gaiole in Chianti each fall.

What sets L’Eroica apart is its strict vintage requirement: only pre-1987 bicycles with down-tube shifters and toe clips are permitted, while period clothing is encouraged. This isn’t a race but a cultural celebration where riders savor the journey through Tuscany’s most scenic terrain.

The signature 212.5km Lungo route covers 168.7km of white gravel roads and 43.8km of asphalt, climbing 3,891 meters through vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages like Buonconvento. The challenging Monte Sante Marie climb tests riders on the 132.6km Crete Senesi route, while the newer 106km Val d’Arbia route offers a more accessible entry point.

Six well-positioned aid stations serve local Tuscan specialties, wines, and the famous organic spelt tart at Buonconvento. Most riders on the longest route finish after 10pm, testament to both the challenge and the unhurried spirit that defines the event.

The experience culminates in Gaiole’s festival atmosphere, where riders gather for local food, wine, and live music. L’Eroica successfully balances authenticity with accessibility, limiting entries to preserve its intimate character while inspiring similar events worldwide.

Eroica

Event Organizer
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Eroica is an Italian cycling event operator that organizes vintage cycling events in Italy and worldwide. The company was founded in 1997 by Giancarlo Brocci, who wanted to celebrate the rich cycling heritage of his home region, Tuscany.  The name “Eroica” comes from the Italian word for “heroic” and refers to the grueling nature of the event and the heroic efforts required to complete it. The first Eroica event took place in 1997 and was a 209-kilometer ride from Gaiole in Chianti to Siena, featuring the iconic gravel roads of the region.

Since then, Eroica has grown into a global movement, with events taking place in countries including Spain, France, the UK, the USA, Japan, South Africa, and Australia. The events typically feature vintage bicycles and clothing, with participants encouraged to ride bikes at least 30 years old and to dress in vintage-style clothing.

One of the key aspects of Eroica events is the celebration of local culture and gastronomy, with food and wine tastings, cultural tours, and other activities often taking place alongside the cycling events. In addition to the flagship event in Tuscany, some of the main global events organized by Eroica include:

 

  • Eroica Britannia: Held in the Peak District of England, this event features routes ranging from 30 to 100 miles and includes live music, food stalls, and a festival atmosphere.

 

  • Eroica California: Based in Paso Robles, California, this event includes both on-road and off-road routes through the scenic Central Coast region and is known for its wine and craft beer tastings.

 

  • Eroica Japan: Held in the Mount Fuji region, this event features up to 160 kilometers of routes and attracts thousands of vintage cycling enthusiasts across Japan and worldwide.

 

  • Eroica Hispania: This event takes place in the province of Burgos in northern Spain and features routes through the region’s scenic countryside and historic villages.

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