Granfondo del Vento

Granfondo del Vento: Cycling in the heart of the Garfagnana

The Granfondo del Vento is one of the most fascinating and selective cycling events in Tuscany. It takes place in Bagni di Lucca, an elegant spa town at the gateway to the Garfagnana in the province of Lucca, and takes its name from the nearby and famous Grotte del Vento (Wind Caves), a natural jewel of the Apuan Alps. The start and finish lines are located in the heart of the town, on Viale Umberto I, from where the long line of cyclists winds along the Serchio and Lima valleys.

Three routes for every level

The event offers three tracks designed to satisfy both amateurs and the most well-trained competitive riders:

• Mediofondo — approx. 75 km, with one timed hill climb;
• Granfondo — approx. 100 km, with two timed hill climbs;
• Extreme — approx. 127 km, with three timed hill climbs, reserved for the most daring.

It is a competitive race with some neutralized sections: the ranking is decided specifically on the timed hill climbs, authentic walls that test the climbing skills of the participants.

Legendary ascents

The charm of the Granfondo del Vento lies in its climbs—thrilling ascents that pass through some of the most beautiful villages in the Lucca Apennines: the Vergemoli-Calomini hill climb, the ascent towards San Pellegrino in Alpe (one of the highest passes in the Apennines), the fearsome stretch of the Orrido di Botri-Montefegatesi, and the ramps of Monti di Villa. The route crosses the territory of numerous municipalities in the Garfagnana and the middle Serchio Valley, offering views of the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines.

An event growing year by year

Launched in 2023, the Granfondo del Vento has captured the hearts of cycling enthusiasts since its first edition, attracting over three hundred participants and hosting well-known faces from professional cycling. The event is part of the Tuscany Bike Challenge circuit and is organized by Tuscany Legend SSD. With a limit of one thousand entries and comprehensive support services and refreshment points along the route, the Granfondo del Vento has become a classic of the Tuscan cycling spring, successfully blending sporting challenge with the discovery of a uniquely charming territory, featuring historic spas, medieval villages, and the wild nature of the province of Lucca.