We would like to take you through our adventure on the “Strade Bianche”, the white roads, where my girlfriend and I cycled part of this iconic route. It was a mix of challenging climbs, unexpected gravel conditions and a well-earned beer in Siena. What an absolute recommendation this is; go cycle the Strade Bianche yourself!
Meeting the challenge together
During our - my friend Irene and myself - holiday in Tuscany, we also visited Siena. Of course, as a big cycling fan, that's when the itch soon sets in. After all, from here you can conquer the iconic white roads of the Strade Bianche. We quickly went in search of handsome gravel bikes to hit the road. While the top riders just do it on their narrow tyres, for the lesser gods like us it is really nice to have a bit more grip. We ended up at Bike Tour Tuscany; recommended! In fact, this guy rented out Bianchi gravel bikes. The Bianche on a Bianchi, which does make the experience perfect! The route offered not only challenging climbs, but also a picturesque landscape that we could explore together. Of course, to do this with your girlfriend does add an extra dimension.
The Strade Bianche route
Since it was bloody hot and Irene was not yet incredibly experienced with gravel climbs of 20%, we went for a slightly modified route. We picked the route from one Mathieu's Strava profile and shortened it slightly. You can skip a loop in the beginning of the route fairly easily, leaving you with a route of around 85 kilometres, while still including the most beautiful stretches from the race. And those strips are really beautiful! Rolling terrain, mountain ridges, cypresses and wonderfully quiet.
Steep climbs and real gravel experience
Strade Bianche's reputation is shaped by its steep climbs, and we certainly felt them. During the ride, we noticed that the condition of the gravel was a bit rougher than the perfect images on TV. Here and there the gravel is looser than you would suspect, and at times it felt like tractor tracks were running across the trails. At least it gave us an honest look at the challenges of this famous route. Even more respect for the top riders!
Pause for relaxation
Halfway through, we decided to deviate from the route for a few kilometres and relax on a charming terrace. A delicious panini and a refreshing coke were the perfect fuel for the rest of our journey. A short break to catch our breath and enjoy the moment. Anyway, in the heat, it is wise to increase fluid levels wherever you can. Once on the white roads, you may just run out of water.
Enjoying a beer in Siena
On arrival in Siena, we rewarded ourselves with a well-earned beer on a local terrace. It was a relaxing end to a day of physical and mental exertion. The sound of clinking glasses and tasting cold lager were the icing on the cake of our Strade Bianche experience.
Go cycle the Strade Bianche yourself!
In case you are still not convinced, here's a final call: go and cycle the Strade Bianche yourself! If you love off-road trails, real gravel, amazing views and serene tranquillity, this is the route for you. Trust me; cycling doesn't get much more beautiful. And do so with the right socks.
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