L'Eroica

Distance: 209 km | Ascent: 3.023 m | Gravel roads: 100 km

The Eroica was launched in 1997 in Gaiole in Chianti by Giancarlo Brocci, a man in love with the values of cycling of the past, these unique landscapes and a sustainable way of life.

Thanks to Terra Eroica, this event has also given us a permanent course giving you the chance to ride your own adventure at any time of the year.

As a cycle tourist, you will cover 209 km in the countryside around Siena, passing through Chianti, Crete Senesi and the Val d’Orcia.

A timeless journey exploring the essence of the Tuscan countryside and culture, featuring fine wine, bustling markets and beautiful ancient churches. Because there is nothing more heroic than enjoying every step of the journey before arriving at the destination.

L'Eroica, stages and variants

Discover the 12 stages of Eroica, an adventure through fascinating places, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Admire the Castle of Brolio in Gaiole in Chianti, immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere of Siena and its beauties, and savor the Brunello in Montalcino. Follow the Komoot track for a seamless journey. Let art, culture, and Tuscan culinary delights conquer you along the way. And with each stamp in your Eroica Travel Book, you will certify your heroic spirit in this extraordinary adventure.

The Eroica permanent route has been divided into 12 stages/sectors that do not represent daily ideal stages: in addition, there are variants (A, B, C, D) that allow further exploration of the territory with unpublished sections. The variants are not equipped with signage.

L'Eroica - Tappa 1 / Gaiole in Chianti - Pianella - percorso permanente

19.7 Km / 250m D+ / 380m D-

Gaiole in Chianti, the start of an epic journey. Through soft hills and vineyards, the climb to Brolio Castle immerses you in history and mystery. A gravel descent through vineyards and the majestic oak are just the beginning of an adventure full of surprises.

L'Eroica - Tappa 2 / Pianella - Siena - percorso permanente

10.8 Km / 210 D+ / 210 D-

Cycling towards Castelnuovo Berardenga, where castles and abbeys tell tales of ancient history, the route leads near Siena. Don’t miss the chance to visit the city and be enchanted by its Duomo and the iconic Piazza del Campo.

L'Eroica - Tappa 3 / Siena - Murlo - percorso permanente

25.4 Km / 380m D+ / 320m D-

From Colle Malamerenda, the road opens towards Val d'Arbia. Through rolling hills, fields, and historic villages, the route intersects with the Via Francigena, leading to unique discoveries like the village of Radi and the ancient Etruscan site of Murlo.

L'Eroica - Tappa 4 / Murlo - Montalcino - percorso permanente

29.8 Km / 700m D+ / 440m D-

Between Bibbiano and Montalcino, one of the most challenging stretches awaits, surrounded by Brunello vineyards. The famous Castiglion del Bosco climb offers breathtaking views and leads you to the majestic town of Montalcino, the home of Brunello.

L'Eroica - Tappa 5 / Montalcino - Torrenieri - percorso permanente

12.6 Km / 90m D+ / 390m D-

Before leaving Montalcino, host of the spring edition of L’Eroica, enjoy the breathtaking view over Val d'Orcia from the Giardini dell'Impero. A stop at the medieval fortress and a glass of Brunello are the perfect prelude to a scenic descent through vineyards and white roads.

L'Eroica - Tappa 6 / Torrenieri - Buonconvento - percorso permanente

26.2 Km / 420m D+ / 530m D-

Leaving Torrenieri, you ride through gentle hills to Cosona and Lucignano d’Asso, then reach Pieve a Salti, a leader in organic farming. Don’t miss visiting Buonconvento, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, where time seems to stand still.

L'Eroica - Tappa 7 / Buonconvento - Asciano - percorso permanente

23.4 Km / 300m D+ / 240m D-

From lush vineyards to the Crete Senesi, a unique landscape unfolds with gullies, clay hills, and isolated farmhouses. These breathtaking views lead to Asciano, a village rich in history and tradition, where Tuscan flavors meet timeless beauty.

L'Eroica - Tappa 8 / Asciano - Castelnuovo Berardenga - percorso permanente

19 Km / 430m D+ / 300m D-

Leaving Asciano, you tackle the “queen” of L’Eroica: the Monte Sante Marie white road, with its tough climbs and descents. From here, you return to Chianti, passing through Castelnuovo Berardenga, where the Chianti hills meet the Crete Senesi.

L'Eroica - Tappa 9 / Castelnuovo Berardenga - Pianella - percorso permanente

11.8 Km / 80m D+ / 200m D-

Castelnuovo Berardenga, a place steeped in history and epic battles like Monteaperti, recounted by Dante. Just a few kilometers away, the commemorative pyramid stands amidst ancient cypress trees. The route continues towards Vagliagli, with varied landscapes and gentle climbs.

L'Eroica - Tappa 10 / Pianella - Vagliagli - percorso permanente

11.8 Km / 320m D+ / 30m D-

The climb towards Vagliagli is a journey through vineyards and shaded woods. At Dievole, L’Eroica cyclists stop for a legendary refreshment, while near Vagliagli lies the Chianti Sculpture Park, an open-air museum perfectly integrated with nature.

L'Eroica - Tappa 11 / Vagliagli - Radda in Chianti - percorso permanente

11.3 Km / 220m D+ / 190m D-

The route winds along the Arbia River to Radda in Chianti, a village rich in history with ancient walls and stunning views. Walking through the medieval streets of this historic stronghold of the Chianti League feels like stepping back in time.

L'Eroica - Tappa 12 / Radda in Chianti - Gaiole in Chianti - percorso permanente

9.30 Km / 130m D+ / 280m D-

Starting from Radda in Chianti, the route passes through the “Bosco del Chianti,” a unique natural setting with a rich history. After an unforgettable descent, the path leads to Gaiole in Chianti, passing through the charming village of Vertine.

L'Eroica - Variante A / Monteroni - Asciano

17.4 Km / 250m D+ / 310m D-

Monteroni d'Arbia, a village born around its medieval mill and the Grancia di Cuna complex. The route winds through the Sienese clays to reach Asciano, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into Tuscany's millenary history.

L'Eroica - Variante B / Radda - Greve in Chianti

41.9 Km / 1130m D+ / 1130m D-

The route variant leads to Panzano and Volpaia, where a legendary stop awaits with ribollita. After a refreshing break at Poggio delle Stanche, the journey continues towards Greve in Chianti, dominated by the impressive Verrazzano Castle and its rich historical past.

L'Eroica - Variante C / Vagliagli - Castellina in Chianti - Radda in Chianti

20.6 Km / 290m D+ / 270m D-

Castellina in Chianti, with its imposing Rocca, welcomes cyclists into the heart of Chianti Classico. A village rich in history, with Etruscan origins and ties to the Chianti League. The charming Via delle Volte offers a cool and fascinating escape from the summer heat.

L'Eroica - Variante D / Siena - Casole - Radi

79 Km / 1170m D+ / 1290m D-

Siena - Castello di Casole - Radi winds through the Tuscan hills, linking the medieval village of Casole d’Elsa, the elegant Castello di Casole, and the tranquil landscapes of Radi. A journey of history, nature, and scenic white roads.

L'Eroica, the complete and official route on Komoot®

Do you want to experience the full essence of L'Eroica? With the complete Komoot® route, you can immerse yourself in every turn, climb, and landscape of the Terre di Siena. From the magic of the Chianti vineyards to the rolling hills of the Crete Senesi and the stunning beauty of the Val d'Orcia, the 209 km route is an epic challenge that embodies the spirit of L'Eroica.

Follow the route to easily navigate white roads and breathtaking views, and let the detailed route suggestions guide you to experience every kilometer like a true Eroica cyclist. With Komoot®, you have the entire route at your fingertips, allowing you to focus on what really matters: pedaling, exploring, and living the adventure.