Cycling Back in Time – The Historic bike races in Arezzo

There are four historical cycling routes in the Arezzo area: “L’Ardita,” “L’Intrepida,” “La Chianina,” and “La Marzocchina.” Annual cycling events take place along these permanent routes which are used all year round. During these events, cyclists of all ages can challenge themselves on a journey through time while getting a healthy rush of adrenaline. 

“L’Ardita” is the Alpe di Poti cycle tour for vintage bikes that is divided into three routes: the 30km Gourmet route, the 50km Classic route and the 80km Ardita route. This longest route takes you through the beautiful area within Arezzo called the Alpe di Poti. You’ll start pedaling in the Piazza Grande square, past the Cathedral of Arezzo and the “Piazza della Libertà” square where the Province of Arezzo and the Municipality of Arezzo buildings are located. You’ll then head out towards the bridge known as the “Ponte della Gioconda” by Leonardo Da Vinci towards the town of Castelluccio a Capolona. This typical medieval town sits on the right bank of the Arno River. From there, you’ll climb again towards the small Etruscan village of Giovi, past Pieve a Siestina and Subbiano, with its magnificent castles, until you reach the finish line at Alpe di Poti. Here you can find out how you did in the time trials and relax at the lively refreshment point set up there. 

“L’Intrepida” is the vintage cycling tour that follows routes in the Valtiberina area where the Battle of Anghiari was fought. This non-competitive ride has acquired a kind of cult status among fans of vintage cycling who set out every year on the third weekend of October on one of three routes: the 42km Short route, the 85km Long route or the 120km Intrepid route. All of these routes pass by the most important sites of the historic battle, painted by Leonardo Da Vinci. There are refreshment points located along the way at Ponte alla Piera, the Galbino Castle, the Sorci Castle and Felcino Nero and Lippiano. At the end, everyone looks forward to tasting the traditional pasta dish called “Bringoli all’Anghiarese.”

“La Chianina” is the cycling tour within the Valdichiana Aretina area that starts in Marciano della Chiana and winds along gravel roads that afford some of the most picturesque landscapes and views in the valley. This 2-day vintage cycling tour takes place every year on the third weekend in June and offers five routes for everyone from novices to experts. The full tour kicks off on Saturday with a 35km route. On the following Sunday, cyclists can choose from three different itineraries: the 45km Short route, the 65km Medium route or the 105km Long route. Kids can ride the 20km “Garbato” route so that they too can experience the joy of cycling with the family.

“La Marzocchina” is a tour that takes place every year on the second weekend of September. It’s a kind of picnic among friends with old vintage bikes that speed through the historic centers and beautiful countryside of the Valdarno area. There are three routes ranging in length from 42 to 107 kilometers that take you along country roads toward medieval villages for a unique experience on two wheels as you take in the fun and sample the traditional foods of the Valdarno area. The lunar scenarios are absolutely unique. The first is the old mine in Santa Barbara and the second is the mining area of the Cavriglia power plant in San Giovanni Valdarno.

This tour is more than a historic cycling event and more than just a grueling time trial, it’s a tour of the authentic beauty that abounds in the Arezzo area and its valleys. It’s a slow journey that helps you appreciate the richness and uniqueness of the Arezzo landscapes as you encounter a community of passionate cyclists who love vintage bikes and good company.