Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Crete Senesi scenic route
Road cycling
4.9
(127)
Cycling
4.7
(32)
Gravel riding
5.0
(3)
Tips
June 2, 2021
Cycling
Lonely streets and ancient villages, churches and castles, fields and large spaces: an evocative spectacle. A postcard of this land made of …
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April 24, 2022
Road cycling
•
February 7, 2017
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Crete Senesi scenic route
4.4
(27)
601
riders
63.1km
03:27
980m
980m
Embark on a difficult racebike journey along the Strade Bianche di Siena e Asciano — Round trip, covering 39.2 miles (63.1 km) with 3200 feet (975 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes. This route is defined by its iconic "strade bianche," unpaved white gravel roads that wind through the heart of Tuscany. You will experience consistently hilly and undulating terrain, featuring numerous short, steep climbs often exceeding 10% gradients. As you ride, you will traverse picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming medieval villages, including the unique "lunar landscape" of the Crete Senesi.
Planning your ride requires attention to the challenging conditions. The route's difficulty stems from the combination of steep climbs, technical descents, and the unpredictable nature of loose gravel surfaces. Strong bike handling skills are crucial for navigating the uneven and often slippery gravel sections. Weather significantly impacts the ride; dry conditions bring dust, while wet conditions can make the gravel muddy and more treacherous. The route starts and finishes in Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This trail is notable for its unique "white roads," offering a distinctive cycling experience unlike many other road routes. It has earned immense prestige, often called a "modern classic" in the cycling world due to its demanding course. The Strade Bianche provides a comprehensive test for any cyclist, requiring endurance, power for sharp climbs, and exceptional bike handling. The dramatic finish in Siena's historic Piazza del Campo offers a memorable end to your ride.
4.3
(12)
265
riders
76.6km
03:48
1,080m
1,070m
Embark on the Strade Bianche and Crete Senesi Loop, a challenging road cycling adventure that takes you through the iconic Tuscan countryside. This difficult route spans 47.6 miles (76.6 km) and features a significant 3539 feet (1079 metres) of elevation gain, promising a true test of your endurance and skill. You will navigate a mix of paved and unpaved "white roads" that wind through picturesque vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, offering panoramic views of the unique "lunar landscape" of the Crete Senesi with its deep ravines. Expect to complete this demanding ride in approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes, immersing yourself in the region's natural beauty.
To plan your visit, know that the route begins in Siena, a well-known city in Tuscany, making it easily accessible if you are traveling by car, with various parking options available. Be prepared for the gravel sections, which can be dusty during dry periods or become muddy and slippery when wet; it is wise to check the weather conditions before you set out. Good bike handling skills are essential for confidently navigating the uneven surfaces and technical descents you will encounter along the way.
This route is notable for its combination of unpaved gravel roads and steep climbs, echoing the famous Strade Bianche professional race. As you cycle, you will pass by charming medieval villages and historical sites, such as the Asciano Historic Center, adding a rich cultural dimension to your ride. The journey through the Crete Senesi, with its distinctive geological formations, provides a memorable backdrop that sets this loop apart from other cycling experiences in the region.
4.8
(5)
207
riders
75.6km
03:47
1,000m
1,000m
Embark on a difficult racebike journey through the iconic Tuscan landscape, where you will encounter the famous "strade bianche" or white gravel roads. This 47.0 miles (75.6 km) loop from Siena takes you through rolling hills and offers panoramic vistas of gullies and small lakes. You will climb 3274 feet (998 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes, experiencing the unique "lunar landscape" of the Crete Senesi with its grey-acid blue clay hills topped with cypress trees. The route also passes charming medieval villages, providing glimpses of history amidst the challenging terrain. Expect a demanding but rewarding ride that showcases the heart of Tuscany.
Plan your visit knowing this route is considered hard, demanding good to very good fitness levels due to its length, elevation gain, and challenging gravel sections. The "strade bianche" can be particularly demanding, sometimes requiring you to dismount and push your bike up steep inclines. Since the route starts and finishes in Siena, you can easily find parking and amenities within the city before and after your ride. Prepare for a challenging day on the saddle.
This route is notable for its immersion into the Crete Senesi scenic area, renowned for its distinctive geological features and agricultural beauty. Beyond the challenging gravel roads, you will enjoy sweeping views of Siena itself, adding a cultural dimension to your athletic endeavor. The combination of natural beauty, historical villages, and the unique "white roads" makes this a standout experience for road cyclists seeking adventure in Tuscany.
Details
Informations
Distance 15.3 km
Uphill 180 m
Downhill 160 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
23°C
9°C
24 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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