Trek Travel gives you unmatched access to Strade Bianche, one of cycling’s most iconic races—including exclusive time with the Lidl-Trek team and a VIP viewing area beneath Siena’s soaring spires. Set against the backdrop of this medieval hilltop city—renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture—you’ll witness the men’s and women’s pro pelotons battle over 125 miles of white gravel roads. Then take on the challenge yourself in the Terre di Siena Gran Fondo, fully supported by expert Trek Travel guides. With electric race-day energy, world-class riding, unforgettable Tuscan cuisine, and postcard-perfect landscapes, this is a true bucket-list experience for passionate cyclists—and your entry pass to the heart of the action.
Learn more about our Pro Race experience»
Enjoy rare insider access with Lidl-Trek—mix and mingle with members of the men’s and women’s pro teams during a relaxed Q&A and social hour
Watch both the men’s and women’s pro pelotons charge into Siena’s Piazza del Campo for an electric finish you’ll never forget
Challenge yourself on the Strade Bianche Gran Fondo, surrounded by race-day energy and backed by the expert support of Trek Travel guides
Ride the legendary L’Eroica course—where vintage cycling heritage meets jaw-dropping Tuscan views on one unforgettable route
Tackle the legendary white gravel roads from the seat of the adventure-ready Trek Checkpoint SL 7
Meet representatives of Team Lidl-Trek
Behind the scene with Lidl-Trek
Go behind the scenes at our private social hour event with Lidl-Trek team reps!
Awesome trip which was the result of knowledgeable and entertaining guides. They clearly did their homework and site prep to ensure we were safe and well accommodated along the trip. The rides where challenging and rewarding. Food was amazing!
Read more
I signed up very impulsively and had no idea what I was getting myself into. The trip turned out to be truly fantastic. The prep rides in Tuscany were so fun. It was the perfect warm up for the Gran Fondo. The two guides were top notch. New Domane bikes with disc brakes and 32mm tires were the perfect setup for the area. We met many of the pros and they gave us tips on how to perform on our race day. The Gran Fondo had over 5,000 riders but the race is really well organized and you roll out pretty smoothly. The route is well marshalled and well marked. The private Trek Travel rest stops were fully stocked with fuel. Strade Bianche is great on it's own. With Trek Travel it was beyond memorable.
Read more
It was fantastic, I loved it, keep it up! What a great culture your business has, it must be pleasure to work with such fun, energetic, positive people.
Read more
This was the best vacation ever, we still talk about it all the time. Getting to see the race and racers up close and getting to ride their routes besides, was something I never thought possible. And having everything taken care of—all we had to do was show up. That was incredible.
Read more
Great Ride
Race fully supported on the beautiful white roads around Siena with 5,000 other cycling fans. The Gran Fondo follows most of the route of the Strade Bianche pro race.
Book early for the best price
Guaranteed
Join Waitlist
Private
Limited Availability
Where to Arrive
Airport:
Florence Airport (FLR)
Pick-up location:
Via Fiume, 12, 50123, Florence, Italy
Pick-up time:
11:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Florence Airport (FLR)
Drop-off location:
Via Fiume, 12, 50123, Florence, Italy
Drop-off time:
11:30 PM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your Strade Bianche bike trip, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR). The airport is about three miles (five km) from the town center. You can take a taxi directly to the center (for approximately 20€) or a bus which departs hourly.
You can also fly into Rome and take a train to Florence. From Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO), you may take a direct train to Rome’s central station, Roma Termini. Follow the “Stazione/Railway Station” signs. Trains depart twice hourly. From Roma Termini, transfer to a train for Florence Santa Maria Novella station. The whole journey takes approximately two and a half hours. We recommend you purchase your ticket in advance at www.TrenItalia.com.
On the first day of your trip, your Trek Travel guide will meet you at 10:30 AM in the center of Piazza della Indipendenza in Florence, Italy. Look for the bus stops on the road that runs between the two statues in the square. Dolce Salto Café (R, Via Ventisette Aprile, 65, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy) is located just across the street. GPS coordinates for the meeting point: 43°46'47.9"N 11°15'15.2"E. A one-hour shuttle will bring you to the Hotel Athena in the beautiful town of Siena, your home for the next four nights. After a light lunch, your guides will discuss the rules of bike safety and specific cycling tips before familiarizing you with your Trek Checkpoint and ensuring a comfortable fit. Then it's time to take to the open road and warm up your legs as you spin through rolling woodlands and enjoy your first expansive Tuscan vistas.
If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip starts with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call the Hotel Athena (+39 0 577 286 313) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.
Additional Departure Information
You will say farewell to your guides at 10:00 AM at the Hotel Athena. You’ll depart by private shuttle to Piazza della Indipendenza, arriving close to 11:30 AM. The plaza is a ten-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station where trains connect to many European cities. Please do not book seats before 1:00 PM to ensure enough time for arrival. The airport in Florence (FLR) is 3 miles (under 5 km) from the city. You can reach it by train, taxi, or shuttle bus; please do not schedule a flight prior to 3:00 PM. Visit www.TrenItalia.com for train information.
Welcome to Siena and your first ride in Tuscany!
Overview
Buongiorno! Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at Via Fiume 12, just outside Hotel Albani in Florence, at 11:00 AM to kick off your Strade Bianche bike tour. From there, a one-hour shuttle brings you to Hotel Athena in the heart of Siena—your home for the next five nights. After a light lunch, your guides will cover bike safety and share tips for riding in Tuscany before fitting you to your Trek Checkpoint. Then it’s time to hit the road for a warm-up ride through rolling woodlands and your first sweeping Tuscan views. This evening, we’ll enjoy a 10‑minute stroll to one of our favorite Siena bistros, where we’ll kick off the week with a delicious meal and wonderful new friends.
Hotel
Hotel Athena
Meals included
Lunch | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Siena's medieval charm
Wander Siena’s well-preserved red-brick streets, centered on the sweeping Piazza del Campo and its striking Gothic Cathedral.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Siena to Radi Loop - Approximately 24 mi | 39 km and 2,211 ft | 674 m
Ride Option2
AVID OPTION:
Siena To Radi Loop - Approximately 30 mi | 49.5 km and 2,821 ft | 860 m
Tackle Monte Sante Marie, the famous "Cancellara" sector
Overview
Start your day with a hearty Italian breakfast and fresh-brewed coffee before rolling out onto Tuscany’s iconic gravel roads. Fuel up—today is a rewarding, calorie-burning ride through the breathtaking Crete Senesi, where rolling hills, cypress-lined ridges, and endless white roads create the kind of scenery that reminds you why you ride. We wind along peaceful country lanes toward the charming village of Asciano, where we’ll pause for a relaxed and delicious lunch at a local trattoria. After lunch, the route continues toward Siena, with riders on the Avid option taking on the legendary Monte Sante Marie sector—also known as the Cancellara sector—a defining stretch of the Strade Bianche, featuring steep, technical gravel pitches reaching up to 18%. Later, we regroup and head to an exclusive visit to the Lidl-Trek Team hotel, where you’ll enjoy a relaxed Q&A and social hour with team representatives—an intimate, behind-the-scenes glimpse into pro cycling just moments before race day.
Hotel
Hotel Athena
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Cocktail Hour with reps from Lidl-Trek
Hear race stories from the white roads, and enjoy a relaxed social hour—just before the team take on Strade Bianche.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY´S RIDE:
Siena to Asciano Loop - Approximately 42 mi | 68 km and 3,677 ft | 1,121 m
Ride Option2
AVID RIDE:
Siena to Asciano with Monte Sante Marie Return - Approximately 50 mi | 81km and 3,992 ft | 1,217 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Social hour with members of the Lidl-Trek Team
Experience the true strade bianche, the white roads of L'Eroica
Overview
Strade bianche is Italian for "white roads," and today we'll test our wheels on these famed routes. The name comes from the color of the dry limestone gravel that lifts into a fine white dust that lingers along the race course. We'll ride on the traditional L’Eroica course, which starts in the town of Gaiole and covers some of the most beautiful roads in the area of Chianti, winding among historic vineyards leading to the cypress-lined entrance of Castello di Brolio. Here, we’ll stop for lunch at the Eroica Café—full of retro cycling vibes, local flavor, and just the right dose of nostalgia. You'll feel like a pro today as our guides support you in a battle against the same steep climbs that challenge the world's best. This evening we'll gather as a group for a relaxing dinner at the hotel.
Hotel
Hotel Athena
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Eroica Café
Eroica Caffé Brolio is a cyclist favorite—vintage bikes, retro kits, and a taste of golden-era riding in the heart of Chianti.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Siena to Gaiole Loop - Approximately 50 mi | 81 km and 4,890 ft | 1,490 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Siena to Gaiole with Shuttle - Approximately 24 mi | 38 km and 2,680 ft | 816 m
Witness the women's and men's Strade Bianche races en route with an exclusive finale in Siena
Overview
Today you will live the race like a true Italian cycling fan. The 133-mile (215 km) Strade Bianche race begins and ends in Siena, with a grand finish at Piazza del Campo, and roughly 40 miles (63 km) of white gravel roads along the route. We'll start our morning on bikes and get to the first gravel section, where we'll wait for the women's race to pass by and then move on to see the men's peloton on another strategic gravel section. After the on-course viewing, we'll ride back to Siena, where we'll enjoy lunch, soak up the race atmosphere, and watch coverage of the last approaching sections on TV at our exclusive Trek Travel viewing spot in the center of Siena on the Piazza del Campo. Then, it's time to join the fun and witness the finale right before our eyes as the race finishes in the square. After an exciting day of race viewing, this beautiful town is yours to discover and enjoy dinner at your leisure.
Hotel
Hotel Athena
Meals included
Breakfast | Lunch
Highlight of the Day
Finish viewing at Piazza del Campo
Enjoy the dramatic finale of the Strade Bianche Pro Race race and electric atmosphere in one of Europe's greatest medieval squares in beautiful Siena.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Siena to Corsano Viewing - Approximately 19 mi | 30 km and 1,480 ft | 450 m
Ride like the pros and tackle the Gran Fondo Strade Bianche
Overview
Did all of that live race action give you inspiration to test your own legs? Today is your chance to tackle a Tuscan classic at the Gran Fondo Strade Bianche, a dusty challenge you can choose to ride for your best time or at your own pace. We'll begin in the center of Siena for the start of the Gran Fondo, where you'll pin on your number for a true Italian cycling adventure. The Fondo route takes on some of the legendary sectors we saw the pros tackle yesterday.— a twisty and undulating course, with no long climbs but with punchy hills, most significantly on the unpaved parts. There are roughly 20 miles (32 km) of gravel roads on the Gran Fondo course and around 12 miles (20 km) for the Medio Fondo. The finish line is at Piazza del Campo, where a huge crowd welcomes the arrival of all participants. Tonight, we will dine together and relive the day over a hearty dinner in our guides' favorite restaurant. Cheers to an unforgettable Strade Bianche bike tour!
Hotel
Hotel Athena
Meals included
Breakfast | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Featured Meal | Savor Tuscan flavors at a festive dinner
Enjoy absolutely divine fresh pasta served with wild boar or truffle sauce. A flavor paradise for your taste buds.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Strade Bianche Gran Fondo - Approximately 86 mi | 139 km and 6,560 ft | 2,000 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Strade Bianche Medio Fondo Short - Approximately 54 mi | 87 km and 4,430 ft | 1,350 m
Enjoy a relaxed morning and take in the final Tuscan moments
Overview
It’s time to bid farewell to Tuscany. Rise bright and early this morning to make the most of the stunning light and watch a bright new day rise over the Tuscan countryside from the hotel terrace. Take a stroll through Siena's cobbled alleys or choose to linger a while over a hot cappuccino and enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel. At 10:00 AM, you'll say farewell to your guides at the hotel before boarding a private shuttle back to Hotel Albani in Florence.
Meals included
Breakfast
On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. Some possible non-riding options on this trip are:
Looking for a break from traffic and the usual routes? Our gravel rides are the perfect escape! While the amount of pavement varies from destination to destination, you can count on minimal traffic once you hit the dirt. And since you'll be off the beaten path, you may encounter fewer services - that's where our guides come in handy. They'll make sure you have everything you need, whether it's a flat tire fix or a local recommendation for the best post-ride treat. And with support from our team available on and off the bike, you'll have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable ride - even through some of the bumps on the trail.
This 4-star hotel is nestled among the heart of Siena’s old town, with the cathedral and Piazza del Campo only steps away. It has been designed with simple comfort in mind, and each room comes equipped with a range of modern amenities and a luxurious feel. Enjoy panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside from a rooftop terrace adjacent to the hotel bar.
New in 2026! The Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 is a carbon gravel bike built for epic rides. Its lightweight frame features Gravel Endurance geometry with IsoSpeed comfort tech, while 45 mm tires smooth out rough terrain. With a wireless SRAM Force XPLR AXS drivetrain featuring a wide 10–46T 13-speed 1X gearing, and powerful disc brakes—everything you need to go wherever the gravel leads.
Learn more
Trek Travel Guides
From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.
Certified Guides
Know Before You Go!
We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.
Your Trip Need to Knows:
Florence, Italy
Florence is the majestic heart of Renaissance art and intellect. Several days can be spent wandering the streets in the shadow of Brunelleschi’s Duomo and strolling beside the Arno. Along with the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi gallery, a pillar of the Renaissance and Medici eras, merits a visit. Michelangeo’s David in the Galleria dell’Arte is not to be missed. Keep in mind while exploring Florence that opening hours vary and are quite often inconsistent. Different museums are open on different days and lines can be very long. It’s worthwhile to pay a few extra euros and pre-book your tickets—this will enable you to bypass long lines of visitors at the entrances. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
Eurostars Florence Boutique
This boutique hotel is a true masterpiece of hospitality, a historic palazzo restored and converted into a 4-star hotel, just 50 steps from the River Arno and a 10-minute walk into the heart of Florence. Discover the magic of Florence on two wheels with their fleet of Trek bikes or admire stunning city views from the rooftop terrace. www.eurostars-florence-boutique.com
Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco
This patrician home of the 16th century is close to the old market in the heart of downtown Florence, just a short walk to the Cathedral and principal museums. This 3-star hotel recently re-opened its doors to guests after having undergone a complete restoration. The Renaissance architecture and the refined furnishings reflect the Florentine character. www.ilguelfobianco.com
Hotel Montebello Splendid
The Hotel Montebello Splendid is an elegant 5-star, boutique hotel located just 10 minutes walk from all the main monuments and points of interest in Florence. Take advantage of their concierge services to plan your stay in Florence to the last detail. www.palazzomontebello.com
Rome, Italy
Rome is a powerhouse of stunning architecture and ancient history, beautifully told through its ruins and buildings. It seems that every street you walk down provides another unexpected glimpse of ancient times, yet modern bustle and energy abounds as well. The Coliseum, the Forum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon are some of the must-see attractions. Be sure to linger on the Spanish Steps one afternoon and take advantage of great shopping and fantastic cuisine. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
Hotel Barocco
This 37-room hotel is tucked away in central Piazza Barberini. It boasts a refined, simple style with all of the comforts and amenities needed for a relaxing Roman getaway. www.hotelbarocco.com
Hotel Capo d’Africa
Located in the heart of Imperial Rome, between the Forum and the Domus Aurea, the Hotel Capo d’Africa boasts contemporary decor within a beautiful, early 19th-century building. 64 rooms. www.hotelcapodafrica.com
Mecenate Palace
In front of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, this hotel is within walking distance of most of the important monuments and shopping areas found in Rome. Guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the hotel’s roof garden. 62 rooms. www.mecenatepalace.com
The Italians say that March is pazzerello, or “somewhat crazy.“ It could be a proper winter month with cold, windy, and often rainy days or it could be the first month of spring, with warm and sunny days. Average temperatures range between 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit. High wind warnings are not unusual. Dress in layers, and be prepared for temperature shifts between daytime and evening. Plus, make sure to bring wet-weather gear. View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.
Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.
Click here to view our full guaranteed policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services
Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments
Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Pro Race trip, we recommend between $350-$400 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.
Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:
Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.
Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.
You cannot put a price on a wow. But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Gravel FAQs
Want to learn more about our trips? Watch our recorded Guide-Led Virtual Events—just visit our Trek Travel Youtube Channel and search for your trip.
Log in to see upcoming trips, preferences, and much more.
Sign up to personalize your experience and trips.
Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.
If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.
Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.
Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
