I’ve always loved going out on my bike and exploring new routes. For me, cycling is exactly this.
Riding the same loop is fine, but over time it gets boring and demotivating. That’s why I’m always looking for new trails or roads to ride and map out, preferably away from traffic.
In recent years, I’ve been dedicating myself almost entirely to gravel riding, which has introduced me to new territories and events. With a mountain biking background, I naturally enjoy adventure and I don’t hold back when the route gets a bit technical. 😉
The tougher and more unpredictable the ride becomes, the greater the satisfaction once it’s done.
I like following a GPX track, but I prefer not to know exactly what’s ahead… at least not in detail. I enjoy discovering things along the way. Cycling is mainly a mental game!
So I want to share with you 4 Epic Gravel Bike Routes in Italy (routes I’ve personally ridden).
4th Stelvio – Lombardia
One of the toughest climbs and, at the same time, one of the most breathtaking I’ve ever done. The true queen of epic gravel routes.
More than a gravel ride, I would call it a journey — where you’re alone with yourself and the power of the mountains guiding you towards the legendary Stelvio.
Start from: Bormio
Bike: gravel or MTB
Level: Very difficult
Best time: June – September
Important notes: bring enough food and water, as there are no mountain huts and maybe just 1 or 2 spots to shelter along the way. Always check the weather carefully before starting this adventure.
L’Eroica – Permanent Route – Toscana
Known worldwide, L’Eroica is an event that attracts thousands of riders every year who want to experience the spirit of cycling from another era.
The longest route (209 km) is now permanent and can be ridden all year round. I recommend doing it as a bikepacking experience over 2–3 days to fully enjoy the stunning Siena hills and the Chianti region.
Start from: Gaiole in Chianti (SI)
Bike: gravel or road bike
Level: very challenging if done in 2 days, less demanding if spread over 3 days
Best time: April – June / September – October
Important notes: enjoy the landscape throughout the whole ride. Refill water whenever possible, as it can get very hot in some sections.
Where Alpe meet Appennini – Liguria
This area is home for me, but I’m still exploring it. Being a wild and forested inland area of Liguria, the roads wind through woods of beech and chestnut trees. Many sections are technical and sometimes you’ll need to get off and push your bike, but once you climb higher, you might be rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views: on one side the Ligurian Sea, on the other the Piedmont Alps with the majestic Monviso.
Start from: Museo della Bicicletta di Luciano Berruti
Bike: gravel or MTB
Level: challenging, requires good fitness
Best time: March – June / September – November
Important notes: enjoy the views and the silence of the forest. Refill water whenever possible, as it can get very hot. The area is home to wolves, wild boars, foxes, and other wildlife. Respect nature and don’t be afraid. 😉
In the heart of Langhe – Piedmont
Among the vineyards of Barolo, La Morra, and Alba, and castles overlooking the hills, you can ride gravel paths that take you along ridgelines to admire the vineyards, as well as through forests where the famous white truffle grows.
A territory to explore and fully enjoy on two wheels.
Start from: Alba (CN)
Bike: gravel
Level: challenging, requires training
Best time: March – June / September – November
Important notes: it can get very hot. Vineyard areas tend to have high temperatures when exposed to the sun.
Which route would you like to ride first?
I’ll leave HERE the link to my Komoot collection where I’ve included these 4 epic gravel routes.
If you haven’t tried the app yet, I’ll also leave HERE the link to get 1 month of Komoot premium with all features unlocked.
