Strade Bianche: The Guide to Tuscany's White Gravel Roads Race

Born recently, Strade Bianche has already established itself as one of the most beautiful classics on the calendar. Its terrain: the strade bianche, these white gravel roads (sterrati) of the Tuscan countryside, around Siena. Dust, chaotic sections and a finish on the magnificent Piazza del Campo: the setting is unique.

What Makes It a Race Apart

• The gravel: multiple sterrati sections punctuate the course. With dust or mud, they transform a classic into a test of endurance and bike handling.
• Tuscany: the landscape of rolling hills and cypress trees is worth the spectacle on its own.
• The finish in Siena: the cobbled climb to Piazza del Campo is one of the most photogenic finals in cycling.
• Men and women: both professional races take place the same weekend, and an amateur Gran Fondo allows the public to ride the same terrain.

How to Follow It (or Experience It)

• Position yourself on a gravel section: that's where the race comes alive and where the spectacle is most intense.
• Or aim for the finish in Siena: Piazza del Campo offers a stunning finale.
• Ride it yourself: the Gran Fondo the next day is a unique way to experience the sterrati.

Practical Information

• When: early March, opening the Italian classics (the 2026 edition is scheduled for March 7, 2026).
• Where: start and finish in Siena, Tuscany (course on the white roads around it).
• Course and official information: strade-bianche.it

In Summary

Strade Bianche, early March around Siena, is cycling on Tuscany's white gravel roads and a legendary finish at Piazza del Campo. You position yourself on a gravel section, and you can even ride the Gran Fondo.

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Want to ride gravel after seeing Strade Bianche? On L'Atelier, prepare your bike — tires, pressure, transmission — and ask your questions to tackle the trails.