Many cyclists return from Tuscany with beautiful photos, a few famous climbs, and fond memories. But deep down, the same feeling often gnaws: was this really the Tuscany everyone talks about? For the true sense of magic only begins once you leave the paved roads and turn onto the iconic white gravel roads around Siena.

There, amidst the dust, the cypresses, and the endless rolling hills, you discover why so many cyclists become completely addicted to this region.

Also read: Custom cycling tours: Why standard providers never truly understand your dream

Why the gravel roads around Siena are so special

The area around Siena is world-famous thanks to the legendary sterrati: white gravel roads that wind through the Tuscan landscape. These roads are no ordinary gravel strips. They form the heart of the mythical cycling classic Strade Bianche and offer a combination that you will find almost nowhere else in Europe:

• rolling panoramas
• endless peace
• technical descents
• steep gravel climbs
• perfect mix of adventure and beauty

The result? Every ride feels like a mini-epic.

The sore point of many cycling holidays: beautiful surroundings, but little experience.

Many popular cycling destinations have excellent asphalt and beautiful views. But often one thing is missing: genuine emotion. The gravel roads around Siena solve that problem immediately.

Here you feel:

• the tension of loose gravel under your tires
• the rhythm of long Tuscan climbs
• the silence of deserted hills
• the satisfaction of every unpaved stretch

It makes your ride not only more beautiful, but also more memorable. And that is exactly why cyclists keep coming back.

Also read: Combine the pro race with cycling the GF Strade Bianche yourself.

The white roads of Tuscany feel like cycling through a postcard.

Anyone driving along the famous white gravel roads for the first time immediately understands why this region is so iconic.

You cycle past:

• winding cypress avenues
• golden hills
• old farmhouses
• medieval villages
• deserted country roads without traffic

Sometimes it seems as if time has stood still here. For photographers, gravel riders, and adventurous cyclists, this is pure bucket list content.

Also read: Cycling in Tuscany? That's why Siena is the smartest base for road cyclists.

Gravel around Siena is challenging, but surprisingly accessible.

Many cyclists think that Tuscan gravel is extremely technical or only for experienced bikepackers.

That is incorrect. Most routes around Siena are perfectly drivable with:

• gravel bike
• road bike (minimum 28 mm tires)
• endurance bike with wider tires

The challenge lies primarily in:

• steep slopes
• loose subsoil
• consecutive vertical meters
• dusty descents

But it is precisely that combination that makes every kilometer addictive.

Why the steep gravel climbs give such a thrill

The Tuscan landscape often looks gently rolling in photos. Until you get on the pedals yourself.

Then you discover:

• unexpectedly steep slopes
• long gravel stretches uphill
• climbs that keep rolling
• explosive percentages above 10%

And yet, it feels different from climbing in the Alps. Not harder, but purer. Because here you ride constantly in the middle of the landscape, without traffic, without crowds, and without hard infrastructure. Just you, your bike, and Tuscany.

Also read: From dust clouds to steep gravel climbs: why GF Strade Bianche is no longer an ordinary granfondo

Experience the magic of Strade Bianche yourself

For cycling enthusiasts, Strade Bianche has achieved near cult status. Professionals often describe the race as:

• heroic
• chaotic
• beautiful
• old-fashioned heavy

When you ride over the same gravel sections yourself, you understand immediately why. Even recreational cyclists feel something special here:

• cycling history
• the dust
• the character of the route
• the heroism of the landscape

It is an experience that asphalt alone rarely offers.

No mass tourism, just pure tranquility

One of the biggest surprises around Siena is how much silence you can still find. While many Tuscan hotspots are overrun with tourists, you sometimes don't encounter anyone on the gravel roads for minutes at a time.

That results in:

• mental peace
• focus on cycling
• complete immersion in the landscape
• a much more intense experience

It is precisely that emptiness that makes the surroundings so special.

Also read: Why Strade Bianche is the race you really must experience live at least once as a fan.

Siena is the perfect base for gravel adventures.

From Siena, you have direct access to dozens of iconic gravel routes. Popular regions around Siena:

• Crete Senesi
• Val d'Arbia
• Chianti gravel routes
• Monteroni d'Arbia
• Asciano
• Good morning

Combining many routes:

• asphalt
• gravel
• climbing work
• fast descents
• historic villages

As a result, every ride remains varied.

Best time of year to cycle the gravel roads around Siena

Spring (March – May)

The most popular period:

• green hills
• mild temperatures
• perfect conditions

Autumn (September – October)

Perhaps even more beautiful:

• warm light
• fewer tourists
• dry gravel roads
• pleasant temperatures

Summer

Possibly, but:

• Starting early is essential
• temperatures can rise high
• dusty conditions are increasing

Why every serious cyclist must ride these roads at least once

There are many beautiful cycling destinations in Europe. But few places combine:

• cycling culture
• nature
• gravel
• gastronomy
• rest
• adventure

like Siena does. The white gravel roads give you the feeling that cycling is becoming pure again.

Conclusion: the white gravel roads around Siena are not a detail, they are the experience itself.

Many people think that Tuscany revolves around wine, villages, and rolling asphalt roads. But whoever misses the white gravel tracks around Siena is actually missing the soul of Tuscan cycling. This is where the real adventure begins. Here you understand why so many cyclists return year after year. And here you discover that the most beautiful roads sometimes have no asphalt at all.

The Dolomites, located in the north of Italy, are one of the most impressive mountain ranges in Europe, with its steep rock faces, breathtaking alpine meadows and picturesque mountain villages. The routes that pass iconic passes such as Three Crosses, Lake Misurina, Falzarego Pass, and Passo Gardena meandering, offer a unique combination of challenge, beauty and adventure. What makes a cycling trip through the Dolomites so special?

1. Stunning views and incomparable landscapes

The Dolomites are known for their breathtaking beauty. The imposing, steep rock formations, the green alpine meadows, the picturesque lakes and the snow-capped peaks create a unique landscape that you will not find anywhere else. Every climb and descent offers a new panoramic view that will leave you amazed by nature. From the blue waters of Lake Misurina to the impressive peaks of Passo Gardena and Passo delle Erbe, the Dolomites are the ideal setting for a cycling adventure.

Iconic locations:

• Lake Misurina: This beautiful lake is located at the foot of the Three Cime of Lavaredo and offers a mirrored surface that reflects the dramatic mountain scenery. It is one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites and a great place to take a break during your ride.
• Passo Gardena: The pass offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and is one of the most famous in the region, with steep climbs and fast descents.

Also read: How to prepare for a multi-day cycling trip

2. The legendary mountain passes

The Dolomites are home to some of the most famous and challenging mountain passes in cycling, and a bike tour through this region is a chance to conquer legendary peaks. Passes such as the Falzarego Pass, Passo Furcia, and Passo delle Erbe have become famous for major cycling races, including the Giro d'Italia. The feeling of riding these icons, whose climbs and descents challenge you physically and mentally, is an experience you will not soon forget.

Popular and challenging passes:

• Passo Furcia: A tough climb with a beautiful view of the Dolomites. The pass connects the Val Badia-area with the Val Pusteria and is one of the steeper climbs in the region.
• Falzarego Pass: This is one of the most important and beautiful mountain passes in the Dolomites. You climb to the top from the valley of Cortina d'Ampezzo, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Passo delle Erbe: Located in the heart of the Dolomites, this pass offers one of the most beautiful views in the region, with the imposing Sass de Putia as background.

Also read: Dolomites Escape

3. A varied route: From lakes to mountain peaks

What makes a cycling tour through the Dolomites so attractive is the variety of landscapes you cross. You don't just cycle over mountains, but also along crystal-clear lakes, through charming mountain villages and vast forests. The varied terrain - from steep climbs to soft, green meadows and along glittering lakes - makes the route dynamic and fascinating.

Various elements along the way:

• Lake Misurina: After climbing the Three Crosses come to the enchanting Lake MisurinaThe lake is set in a valley surrounded by mountains, offering a peaceful stop before delving further into the mountains.
• Prato Piazza: This high plateau is one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and meadows. It is a popular place for cyclists to stop and enjoy the silence and beauty of nature.

Also read: Maratona dles Dolomites: What you need to know

4. The challenge of climbing and descending

Cycling in the Dolomites is not for the faint of heart, but that is precisely what makes it so special. The mountain passes offer serious challenges, with steep climbs and technical descents. It takes both stamina and technique to conquer the passes, but the satisfaction of reaching the top and the feeling of freedom on the descents are unparalleled.

Famous climbs:

• Three Crosses: One of the shorter but steeper climbs that takes you along the eastern side of the Dolomites. The view from the top is impressive, and the ride down is a pleasure.
• Passo Lion: A relatively quiet pass, but the climb can be intense with a steep slope in the middle. The view over the valley is a great reward for your effort.

Also read: Learn to climb better, this is how you do it

5. The authentic alpine culture and hospitality

A cycling tour through the Dolomites is not only a physical challenge, but also a cultural experience. The region is rich in history, and along the way you can discover traditional mountain villages and picturesque towns. The influence of both Italian and Tyrolean culture is everywhere, from the architecture to the local cuisine. The hospitality of the locals makes the trip extra special, and you can enjoy delicious local dishes such as speck, canned, and apple strudel in the numerous restaurants.

Experience the culture:

• Cortina d'Ampezzo: This chic town is the centre of the Dolomites and a great place to relax after a long drive. The town is famous not only for the impressive surrounding mountains, but also for its luxury shops and restaurants.
• Mountain huts and restaurants: Along the way you can stop at authentic restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine, recharge your batteries and enjoy the view over the mountains.

Also read: You go on a cycling trip and take with you

6. Safe and easily accessible

The Dolomites are well-served by cyclists. There are excellent cycle paths and well-maintained roads that allow you to safely explore most of the mountain passes. Many of the roads you will cycle are popular with cyclists, and there are many services for cyclists, including bike hire, repair shops and specialist hotels. The route is well-signposted, making it easy to find the right way, even if you are cycling in the region for the first time.

Conclusion

A cycling holiday in the Dolomites is an adventure that challenges, inspires and amazes you. The combination of challenging mountain passes, breathtaking views, authentic culture and the physical satisfaction of the climb makes this region one of the most beautiful and sought-after cycling destinations in the world. Whether you are an experienced climber or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the Dolomites offer a unique opportunity to push your limits and enjoy the spectacular natural and mountain scenery. It is a journey that will not only test your cycling skills, but also nurture your love of adventure and nature.

Also read: Why book a group trip?

When you see the rain tapping against your window in the Netherlands, you feel the cold biting your skin and see the horizon gray, it is understandable that your desire for sun and warmth grows. It sounds like the perfect solution: get away from the bleak, wet winters of the Netherlands and look for a sunny paradise to keep your fitness up.

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, offers exactly what cyclists need: mild temperatures, breathtaking nature and an extensive network of routes that take you through both flat and challenging mountain landscapes. This island is the ideal winter destination for cyclists who want to escape the drizzly Netherlands.

Why Tenerife is an ideal cycling paradise

Tenerife offers a temperate climate almost all year round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20 degrees Celsius, even in the winter months. This makes it the perfect destination for those who want to keep training in the winter without having to worry about freezing cold or rain showers. The volcanic origins of the island create an impressive and varied landscape, from coastal roads to steep mountain slopes. What makes Tenerife particularly attractive to cyclists is the diversity of the terrain. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride along the ocean or a challenging climb up Mount Teide (Spain’s highest volcano), Tenerife has it all.

Also read: Tenerife Winter Escape

The island has positioned itself in recent years as a top destination for cyclists and mountain bikers. Several professional teams come here to train, and numerous events, such as the “Vuelta a Tenerife”, take place here. The infrastructure for cyclists is excellent, with well-maintained roads, cycle paths and a wide range of bike rentals. In addition, the island offers beautiful views, quiet villages and unspoilt nature that makes cycling even more special.

The five most beautiful places to cycle in Tenerife

1. Teide National Park

The Teide is the symbol of Tenerife, and a bike ride to the top of this imposing volcano is an unforgettable experience. The climb to the top is one of the toughest in Europe, at 3,718 meters high, but it is definitely worth it. The route to Teide takes you through impressive volcanic landscapes, with lava fields, rock formations and panoramic views that are definitely worth the sweat. The park offers different bike routes for different levels, but a climb to the top is a must for the serious cyclist. For those who find the whole climb too difficult, there are routes that can take you up to 2,000 meters high, from where you can still enjoy spectacular views.

2. La Orotava to Puerto de la Cruz

This route takes you through one of the most beautiful valleys of Tenerife, with spectacular views of the Teide. The starting point is the historic town of La Orotava, famous for its traditional Canarian architecture and green, lush surroundings. From La Orotava you cycle to the coastal town of Puerto de la Cruz, known for its charming streets and beautiful beaches. The route is challenging but easy to do for both recreational and advanced cyclists. You will pass orange groves, banana trees and tropical gardens, and the views of the ocean and the volcano make it an unforgettable ride.

Also read: Mallorca312

3. Anaga Mountains

The Anaga Mountains, located in the northeast of Tenerife, offer a completely different experience to the volcanic areas of the island. This area is known for its dramatic mountains, deep gorges and green forests. The trails are narrow and often technical, perfect for mountain bikers looking for an adventure. The views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline make it one of the most beautiful places to cycle. The ride to the mountain village of Taganana is recommended for those who like a tough challenge. Don't forget to stop for a break and enjoy the panoramic views of the island.

4. Costa Adeje and Los Gigantes

For those who prefer a more leisurely ride, the west coast of Tenerife offers a beautiful cycle route along the ocean. The route from Costa Adeje to Los Gigantes offers magnificent views of the steep cliffs and the clear blue sea. This area is ideal for a leisurely bike ride with few differences in altitude, but it offers beautiful views and a pleasant route for the cyclist who wants to enjoy the sun and the sea. The charming villages along the route offer a nice opportunity to drink a local coffee or taste a typical Canarian dish.

5. Vilaflor to Arona

Vilaflor is the highest village in Tenerife, located at an altitude of 1,400 metres at the foot of Teide. From this picturesque village, you can take a beautiful ride to Arona, a charming town known for its authentic atmosphere and traditional Canarian architecture. This route offers both challenge and beauty, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and a mix of forests and open fields. It is an ideal route for cyclists who enjoy a good climb followed by a relaxing descent to the south of the island.

Also read: You go on a cycling trip and take with you