Highlight • Bridge
Ponte della Pia
Cycling
4.8
(63)
Road cycling
4.9
(63)
Hiking
4.6
(22)
Mountain biking
4.5
(9)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Tips
October 23, 2023
Road cycling
•
January 20, 2020
Road cycling
•January 23, 2020
Cycling
Along the road …
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ponte della Pia
4.7
(7)
121
riders
76.3km
03:45
1,150m
1,150m
This difficult road cycling loop from Sant'Andrea a Montecchio to the Abbazia di San Galgano offers a challenging ride through the rolling Sienese hills of Tuscany. You will cover 47.4 miles (76.3 km) with a significant 3780 feet (1152 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 44 minutes to complete. The route winds through the tranquil Val di Merse Nature Reserve, where you will experience a mix of asphalt, compacted gravel, and some unpaved sections, reminiscent of the famous Strade Bianche. Expect to see dense forests of holm oaks, cork oaks, and maple trees alongside vineyards and cultivated fields. The highlight is the magnificent 13th-century Gothic Cistercian monastery, the Abbazia di San Galgano, famous for its roofless structure.
Given the varied terrain, including unpaved and loose sections, you should be prepared for changing road conditions. Good fitness is required for this difficult route, as some segments may be particularly challenging to ride. You might even find yourself needing to push your bike on certain parts. This less crowded area of Tuscany offers a peaceful cycling experience, but be ready for the physical demands of the ride.
The most notable feature of this route is its connection to the Abbazia di San Galgano, a Cistercian monastery that stands as an open-air cathedral under the Tuscan sky. After visiting the abbey, a short but intense climb leads you to the nearby Hermitage of Montesiepi. This hermitage houses the legendary sword in the stone of Saint Galgano, adding a unique historical and mythical element to your cycling adventure. The route also passes through charming historical elements, including stone farmhouses and possibly medieval villages like Monticiano.
4.6
(17)
286
riders
73.1km
03:10
680m
680m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(14)
277
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 270 m
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Wednesday 10 June
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14°C
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