Gran Fondo San Benedetto del Tronto Festival

A spring classic between sea and hills

The Gran Fondo San Benedetto del Tronto Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the amateur cycling season in the Marche region. Organized by ASD Bicigustando together with SBT Team, the event attracts over a thousand cyclists each year who gather on the seafront of San Benedetto del Tronto, in the heart of the Riviera delle Palme, in the Province of Ascoli Piceno. The race is part of the Granfondo Marche circuit and the ACSI National Championship, and it represents a true spring classic for two-wheel enthusiasts.

Two routes in the heart of Piceno

The charm of the Gran Fondo lies in its route, which quickly leads from the sea into the gentle hills of the Piceno hinterland, amidst vineyards, olive groves, and ancient villages. Participants can choose between two options:

• Long route: approximately 127 km with almost 2,000 meters of elevation gain, reserved for the fittest, with challenging climbs like Monte Vidon Combatte.
• Medium (short) route: approximately 85 km with just over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, ideal for those seeking a more accessible yet still scenic challenge.

The first kilometers along the Adriatic coast offer a panoramic start, before the race climbs towards the hilly municipalities of Piceno, with intermediate refreshment points and the inevitable post-race pasta meal.

Much more than a race: sport that builds community

What sets this event apart is its festival spirit. Alongside the competition, there are conferences on sports, nutrition, and road safety, an Expo area, activities for children, and moments of conviviality. The Pedalata Rosa (Pink Ride) is particularly significant, a collective awareness event against gender-based violence that involves the entire community, accompanied by a multidisciplinary dialogue on inclusion and well-being.

San Benedetto del Tronto, capital of the Riviera delle Palme

The setting is San Benedetto del Tronto, one of the most renowned seaside resorts in the Marche region, famous for its palm trees and well-ordered seafront. Spring is the ideal season to discover the area on two wheels, when the mild climate and the landscapes of Piceno offer an unforgettable backdrop for cyclists. The Gran Fondo has become a regular fixture, uniting athletes, families, and citizens in a weekend of celebration.