Tuscany is a cyclist's paradise, with rolling hills, vineyards, and castles, offering an unforgettable experience for anyone who desires a cycling vacation. The routes of Eroica are the ultimate expression of all of this, amplified by the heroic, challenging, satisfying, slow, and attentive taste of cycling.

I'm excited to write this article about my cycling experience in Tuscany, on the roads of Eroica.

MY TRAVEL STORY: MY INTIMATE BIKE VACATION ON EROICA

I decided to participate in Eroica because I wanted to experience heroic cycling. I chose to participate in the 135 km event, which crosses some of the most beautiful areas of Tuscany. The race (which is not really a race!) starts and ends in Gaiole in Chianti, a small town in the heart of Chianti. Along the way, I cycled through vineyards, forests, and hills, and I was able to admire the beautiful landscapes.

After the event, I spent several days exploring the region by bike, a slow and attentive remake of the places I cycled through on the day of the event. I visited Siena, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, and cycled along the dirt roads of Crete Senesi and the famous Strade Bianche, through hills and arid fields. I also visited Montalcino, a city famous for its Brunello wine, and cycled among the vast surrounding vineyards.

In the days following the event, I rode my gravel bike, a perfect bike for this type of experience, comfortable and safe. I recommend this type of bike!

A MENTION TO THE STEAK

During my cycling trip, I had the opportunity to taste many dishes and discover the true Tuscan cuisine, with delights that satisfy all palates and styles (from carnivores to vegetarians). The Florentine steak is a typical dish, Chianina is a breed of cattle native to Tuscany, which produces high-quality meat. Ribollita is a typical Tuscan vegetable soup, prepared with stale bread and beans. And what about pici all'aglione, handmade pasta with a sweet garlic sauce that you can only find here! Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino are two of the world's most famous wines, and you can find delicious ones around every corner.

THE EMOTION AND FATIGUE OF CYCLING IN TUSCANY

Cycling in Tuscany can be an emotional and challenging experience. The rolling hills and dirt roads can be demanding, but they also offer breathtaking views and an authentic cycling experience. During my cycling vacation, I met many other cyclists who shared the same passion, and I could read in their eyes amazement, emotion, satisfaction, and euphoria.

I was alone, and cycling solo in those places is beautiful: you never get bored, just look up from the handlebars to realize that you are blessed and lucky to intimately experience the beauty that Mother Nature has gifted and that man has preserved.

Every pedal stroke touches the heart. I will definitely return.