The Prosecco Cycling Gran Fondo 2026 is a renowned cycling event in the picturesque Veneto region of Italy, an area famous for its landscapes and producing Prosecco wine. This event is not just a race but a celebration of cycling, local culture, and the region’s exquisite cuisine. Over 2000 cyclists annually enjoy the event to celebrate the end-of-season Prosecco harvest. It attracts cyclists worldwide, ranging from amateurs to seasoned professionals, eager to experience the rolling hills covered with vineyards, historical paths, and charming villages.

It combines cycling with a gourmet experience! And it’s a unique gran fondo in several ways: You are only timed on select climbing portions of the course, not the entire route, so you can ride hard when it counts and enjoy yourself during the rest of the ride; the roads are completely closed to traffic, and…instead of bananas at rest stops, you’ll eat Shrimp Scampi and drink Prosecco!

The start line for the Prosecco Cycling Gran Fondo is in the center of Valdobbiadene, where you will be sent off to the sound of the Nessun Dorma Aria from Turandot, with waiters waving bottles of wine at the peloton. After this dramatic departure, it’s a short climb before setting off for a fast, winding descent through the hills and Prosecco vineyards of North-Eastern Italy. Last year, the route was 98.4 kilometers and had a total altitude of 1680 meters. The route takes participants through the heart of the Prosecco wine-growing area, particularly the Prosecco Superiore DOCG zone, offering views of the vineyards and the Italian countryside. The course is challenging yet rewarding, with varying elevations and terrains that test the endurance and skill of the riders.

The event often includes several side activities, such as wine tastings, gourmet local food samplings, and cultural tours, allowing participants and their companions to immerse themselves fully in the local traditions and flavors. The Prosecco Cycling Gran Fondo is not just about the physical challenge; it’s about community, sharing passions, and celebrating the Italian “dolce vita.” The event concludes with a grand finale celebration where participants can relax, share their experiences, and enjoy the local Prosecco wine.