Tuscany Trail 2025
Tuscany Trail 2025 – Winter Inspiration No:2
What could be more appealing than riding through the Tuscan countryside in spring? Imagine yourself riding along the famous strade bianche, passing through vineyards, dense forests, and ancient historical centres. The second entry in our Winspiration (winter+inspiration) series, is the Tuscany Trail.
The Tuscany Trail is a 440Km adventure that has been attracting cyclists since 2007. The organisers tweak the route every year, in a never-ending search to find the perfect route. Must be a real problem when you have so much to choose from. So if you’re in need of some inspiration to keep training through the winter, read on.
The Route
The route is a single lap, starting from Campiglia Marittima, a typical picture-book Italian village. From there the route heads anti-clockwise around Tuscany. You won’t be on your own though, Tuscany Trail claims to be the world’s largest bike-packing event, with 4700 participants.
On the full route (there is a shorter version) you’ll “pedal through magical villages where time seems to have stopped in the Middle Ages, with cobblestone streets and ancient walls that tell stories of centuries past”. Among the many places you’ll visit, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the world’s most fascinating cities, like Siena, Monteriggioni, and Pienza.
Tuscany Trail, not a race!
Don’t worry about the crowds though, the Tuscany Trail is not a race. There are no stopwatches, rankings, or competition, so riders can take their time to enjoy the ride. This event is designed for those who want to experience a bike-packing adventure in its purest form without the pressure of time or the need to prove anything to anyone.
Unlike other events which proudly boast of their difficulty, in metres climbed, kilometres travelled or hardships endured, the Tuscany Trail tempts you with the landscapes, gastronomy and camaraderie you’ll encounter. Why rush through a country so pleasant and welcoming?
Tuscany Trail treasures
The organisers encourage you to enjoy the “true treasure” of Tuscany, its food. Dishes like Florentine steak and and expertly prepared game specialties sound perfect after a day’s riding. Alternatively you could try Tuscany’s “poor” dishes. These are often vegetarian or vegan, such as pappa al pomodoro, ribollita, and country-style soups, which transform simple ingredients into extraordinary taste experiences.
Of course you will need something to wash the dust of the strade bianche from your throat. As you are in Tuscany it would be a shame not to try some of the local viniculture. From robust reds to fresh whites, like those offered by the Consorzio Tutela Vini della Maremma Toscana, your palate will be delighted by native varieties like Ciliegiolo, Alicante, Ansonica, and Vermentino.
Base Camps
If you’re new to bike-packing and unsure about where to stop (I include myself in that category) you can make use of the Tuscany Trail Base Camps. According to the organisers these “locations along the route offer a space to pitch your tent next to other participants, creating an atmosphere of sharing and community. Here, you’ll find simple but warm hospitality.“
Of course you can choose to sleep on your own in a Tuscan hedge, but why miss out on the chance to mingle with other riders? The organisers say that many cyclists return year after year, not only for the beauty of the route, but also to reconnect with the friends they’ve made in previous editions. The Tuscany Trail guide includes detailed information about each Base Camp and is available to all registered participants.
Unsupported, but well organised!
Even though it’s an “unsupported” event, registering for the Tuscany Trail means participating in a very well-organised event. The day before the start begins at the “village.” Over the years, this has become a meeting point where you can begin to experience the relaxed atmosphere of the event. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to make new friends among other participants, explore sponsor stands, and fully immerse yourself in the Tuscany Trail vibe.
What are you waiting for?
As I sit here looking out on another damp and foggy day, the idea of riding through an Italian spring is very tempting. So much in fact, that we have agreed to ride it in 2026! You however can enter now. You can choose between a Classic or No Stress ticket. The Classic is €99 before December 31st, or €127 after. The No Stress is €129 before and €229 after. Check the links for what each ticket offers. Looking for more inspiration, how about Spain’s Basajuan?
