4.9
(50)
532
riders
L'Eroica Permanent Route
04:20
52.8km
870m
Gravel riding
Experience challenging gravel biking on L'Eroica Permanent Route, traversing Tuscany's iconic white roads and scenic hills.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 32.6 km for 278 m
After 42.9 km for 56 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
12.0 km
Vagliagli
Highlight • Settlement
Here, time seems to have stopped, and I invite you to walk the ancient paved streets, which lead you into a unique atmosphere of timeless charm and beauty.
But the real inebriating experience of Vagliagli is linked to the local food and wine. Enjoy the typical delicacies of this area, sipping the renowned Chianti wines and delighting yourself with the traditional culinary specialties.
Vagliagli awaits you, ready to give you a dive into the past and a journey of authentic pleasures. Don't miss out on this wonderful experience!
Translated by Google •
Tip by
23.1 km
Radda in Chianti
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
32.7 km
La Bottega Gaiole in Chianti
Highlight • Structure
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Tip by
43.4 km
Brolio Castle
Highlight • Castle
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Tip by
48.3 km
Il leccione - secular oak
Highlight • Natural Monument
The particularity of this centuries-old specimen absolutely deserves a souvenir photo! Don't miss it when you visit this wonderful location.
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Tip by
52.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
31.7 km
10.5 km
6.93 km
3.53 km
142 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
31.1 km
12.0 km
7.78 km
1.85 km
181 m
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Elevation
Highest point (560 m)
Lowest point (220 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 7 May
21°C
9°C
-- %
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the L'Eroica Permanent Route start, and is parking available?
The route often begins in Gaiole in Chianti. While the data does not specify dedicated parking, Gaiole in Chianti is a well-known starting point for the L'Eroica event, and parking options are generally available in such towns.
Is the L'Eroica Permanent Route dog-friendly?
The provided information does not explicitly state whether the L'Eroica Permanent Route is dog-friendly or any specific rules regarding dogs. It's advisable to check local regulations or contact local tourism offices before planning your ride with a dog.
What is the best time of year to ride the L'Eroica Permanent Route?
Cyclists can enjoy this route year-round. However, for the most pleasant experience, consider riding during spring or autumn to avoid the intense summer heat and potential winter chill, while still enjoying the beautiful Tuscan landscapes.
Do I need a permit or registration to ride the L'Eroica Permanent Route?
The L'Eroica Permanent Route is designed for year-round access, allowing cyclists to experience the spirit of L'Eroica. The provided information does not indicate that a specific permit or registration is required for individual rides on the permanent route.
Is the L'Eroica Permanent Route suitable for beginners?
No, the L'Eroica Permanent Route is generally considered challenging. It features significant length (approximately 208-209 km), substantial elevation gain (around 3,400 to 3,891 meters), and includes technical segments with steep gravel sections, both uphill and downhill. It requires careful riding and a good level of fitness.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?
The route features a diverse mix of paved and unpaved roads, with roughly 112 kilometers consisting of gravel or "white roads" (strade bianche), which are a defining characteristic. You'll traverse Chianti's vineyards and forests, rolling hills, medieval villages, and the unique lunar-like landscapes of the Crete Senesi.
What are the main points of interest along the L'Eroica Permanent Route?
The route offers an immersive journey through stunning Tuscan landscapes and cultural sites. Notable points include the charming settlements of Vagliagli and Radda in Chianti, the majestic Brolio Castle, and the ancient Il leccione - secular oak. You'll also pass through regions like the UNESCO World Heritage site Val d'Orcia and the Crete Senesi.
How long does it typically take to complete the L'Eroica Permanent Route?
Due to its challenging nature, length, and elevation gain, the route is often completed in stages. Some tour operators suggest 4 to 5 stages, with each covering 40-60 km and substantial elevation gain per day. The total duration for the komoot tour is approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, but this likely refers to a shorter segment or a very fast pace.
What type of bike and gear is recommended for this route?
While the route can be ridden on any type of bike, a gravel bike is ideal. The significant sections of "strade bianche" (white roads) and technical segments with steep gravel make a gravel bike the most suitable choice for comfort and performance.
Does the L'Eroica Permanent Route intersect with other trails?
Yes, the route is primarily known as "L'Eroica" (100% coverage). It also briefly intersects with other local trails such as Trekking tra i castelli 5, Trekking tra i castelli 6 (CETAMURA), and Sentiero di crinale del Chianti.
Are there places to eat or stay along the route?
Yes, the route winds through numerous medieval villages and towns, such as Montalcino, Buonconvento, and Asciano. These offer opportunities to explore local culture, savor regional food and wine, and find accommodation. For instance, La Bottega Gaiole in Chianti is a highlight along the way.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Fun route made up mainly of very dusty dirt road and asphalt, the dirt part is very smooth if it weren't for the amount of cars and vans that pass by. The landscapes are breathtaking, it's like cycling in a postcard!
Round trip on gravel terrain in the Chianti area along the route of L'Eroica Read the full story: https://www.lifeintravel.it/eroica-percorso-in-bici-sulle-strade-bianche-del-chianti.html
The first part of the itinerary is decidedly easy and fast: with the exception of the dirt road detour of Moci, which offers some treacherous passages both uphill and downhill, the first twenty kilometers pass quickly, skirting the centuries-old Castello del Brolio (one of the places most iconic in the area) and then tackling the long panoramic descent on the ridges towards Pianella. The tour now turns north, climbing the dirt road to Pieveasciata at medium gradients and then following the slightly flat road to Vagliagli. At the top of the hill you enter the woods, encountering the steep and tortuous descent towards the Arbia valley floor, then continuing slightly uphill along one of the dustiest dirt tracks of the entire itinerary. Once you have found the asphalt again, you then abandon the Eroica route and go up to Radda in Chianti with a steep and challenging climb; similar scenario a few kilometers further on, when a variant made up of ramps, vineyards, cart tracks and even a short single track is preferred to an asphalted stretch. Shortly after the Vistarenni estate you then return to the permanent route at the Vertine dirt road, along which quickly returns to Gaiole. Thanks to Nest.bike for sharing the track and description NB: Garmin Edge 1040 - 1137 meters of altitude difference
Not long ride in the epic areas of the Eroica, a bit of asphalt especially at the beginning, then the legendary Tuscan white roads, climbs and descents under a scorching sun!
The intention was to cycle the three loops of the L'Eroica route (Martine Hofstede, Gravelritten.nl). However, due to the heat, we cycled the north loop, adjusted the middle loop and not the south loop. We'll save that for next time! I made the start and end point at the town of Pianella, only to cycle there from the campsite near Siena. That also turned out to be a pretty tough part.....and instead of starting at Pianella, we accidentally turn off too early at Ponte a Bozzone. Do not spoil the fun, it is a beautiful area and further on we will automatically arrive on the route. It is a very beautiful part of Tuscany. Very green, the many vineyards (finally the Chianti region) interspersed with forests and beautiful small villages that you reach over the many Strade Bianchi. In Radda in Chianti a stop for a much needed lunch in the form of a delicious pasta! Castles abound here, the route goes past Castello di Brolio with roads lined by cypress trees.