L’Eroica 2026 is an annual cycling event in the beautiful Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. This unique event is a celebration of vintage cycling, and it attracts cyclists from all over the world who come to ride the picturesque roads of Tuscany on their vintage bicycles. The history of L’Eroica 2026 dates back to 1997 when a group of cycling enthusiasts decided to organize a non-competitive event to promote the cultural and environmental heritage of the Chianti region, as well as to help preserve the last gravel roads in Tuscany. Its founder states, “We want people to rediscover the beauty of fatigue and the thrill of conquest”. Strambecco rates the event as one of the Best Gravel Fondos in Italy.

L’Eroica 2026 is not just a cycling event per se; it’s also a cultural and gastronomic experience. Along the route, riders can stop at the numerous rest stops, where they can taste local wines, cheeses, and other Tuscan specialties. The event culminates in a festival in Gaiole in Chianti, where riders and spectators can enjoy live music, local food, and wine.

The L’Eroica event is held each Fall, and it offers riders the opportunity to ride on some of Tuscany’s most scenic and challenging roads. There are five route options, however the headlining event is a 205 km loop that starts and finishes in the town of Gaiole in Chianti, and it takes riders through vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages, with plenty of hills and gravel roads to test their skills and endurance.

The Long Route / Lungo: Authentic L’Eroica Experience – Spanning a distance of 212.5KM with an elevation of 3,891M, the Long Route embodies the L’Eroica spirit in its most raw and authentic form. Cyclists traverse 168.70KM on white roads and 43.80KM on asphalt roads, making their journey through torch-lit Brolio Castle in Siena and medieval marvels such as Buonconvento. Six refreshment stops await riders, with the organic food haven in Buonconvento standing out as a highlight. An average 15-hour ride awaits, with many riders completing their journey after 10pm.

The Medium Route / Crete Senesi: Touching the Legend – The Medium Route, covering 132.6KM with an elevation of 2,235M, offers a taste of L’Eroica’s legendary reputation. Cyclists will navigate 72.70KM on white roads and 59.90KM on asphalt roads, journeying through the breathtaking medieval village of Buonconvento. A significant challenge on this route is the renowned Monte Sante Marie climb, which pushes riders to their limits. Four well-placed refreshment stops offer cyclists the much-needed respite on this journey that often stretches beyond 10-12 hours.

The Hundred Route / Val D’arbia covers 106KM with an elevation gain of 1,793M, taking riders through 59.40KM of white roads and 46.60KM of asphalt roads, offering scenic views of the Crete Senesi. Three refreshment stops ensure that riders are well-fueled throughout their journey which kicks off between 7:00 and 7:30 in the morning.

Unlike many modern cycling events, L’Eroica is not a race, with no prizes or rankings. Instead, it’s a celebration of vintage cycling and the culture of Tuscany, and participants are encouraged to ride their vintage bicycles and wear vintage clothing. The event is also known for its strict rules, which require participants to ride bicycles made before 1987, with down-tube shifters and without clipless pedals. The event organizers also limit the number of participants to maintain the intimate and authentic atmosphere of the event.