Chianti Classic — Cycle Touring on the Roads of Siena

A legendary ride in the heart of Chianti

The Chianti Classic is one of Tuscany's most beloved and long-standing cycle tours. Every year, around June 2nd, it draws hundreds of cyclists to the village of Castelnuovo Berardenga (Province of Siena) from all over Italy to ride through Chianti vineyards, the cypress-lined hills of the Crete Senesi, and the famous strade bianche (white roads) that have made this corner of Tuscany world-famous. This is not a race: it is a non-competitive cycling event where the joy of riding and the beauty of the landscape matter more than the clock.

Origins and History

The history of the Chianti Classic dates back to 1996, when the first edition took place in Gaiole in Chianti under the name Gran Fondo Bartali. Over the years, the event moved to Castelnuovo Berardenga and grew into a staple of the Italian cycling calendar, organized by the Bulletta Bike association with the patronage of the Municipality of Castelnuovo Berardenga. The event is also a qualifying stage for the Sienese and Tuscan UISP Championship and the UISP Italian Criterium, confirming its deep roots in the amateur cycling world.

Routes through hills and white roads

The heart of the Chianti Classic lies in its routes, designed to accommodate every type of cyclist:

• Long Route: approx. 113 km with 1,816 meters of elevation gain, for the most seasoned granfondo riders.
• Medium Route: approx. 85 km with 1,353 meters of elevation gain.
• Short Route: approx. 57 km with 697 meters of elevation gain, ideal for those seeking a more relaxed ride.

For the long and medium routes, an evocative strade bianche variant is available, adding a few kilometers of gravel and recreating the atmosphere of the famous professional Strade Bianche race, including a passage by the monument dedicated to champion Tadej Pogačar. It is an authentic taste of the rugged, poetic charm of the Sienese white roads.

An event for slow and sustainable tourism

The Chianti Classic is much more than just a ride: it is an opportunity to discover the territory of Castelnuovo Berardenga and the Sienese Chianti through slow and sustainable tourism. Along the route, participants pass through villages, vineyards, and locations such as San Martino in Grania, Pianella, and Gaiole in Chianti, where refreshment points are set up. At the end of the ride, the village welcomes cyclists with a traditional pasta party and team awards, in a festive atmosphere that combines sport, conviviality, and a love for Tuscany.