Alberto Bettiol's Favorite Italian Cycling Adventures: From Tuscany's Hills to Rome's Urban Streets

Alberto Bettiol's Italian Cycling Escapes

Italian road cycling champion Alberto Bettiol, currently racing for Italy at the Paris Olympics, eagerly awaits the opportunity to return home and indulge in his favorite Italian cycling routes. After competing in events like the Giro d'Italia, the Tour de France, and winning the 2024 Milan-Turin race, Bettiol is set to return to Tuscany for some well-deserved downtime. "For professional cyclists, it's difficult to define 'home' because you're almost always outside. But as soon as possible, I go home to Castelfiorentino," he says.

For Bettiol, cycling in Italy is not just about racing-it's about the pleasure of the ride and the chance to enjoy Italy's rich history, stunning scenery, and delicious food along the way. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the ancient streets of Rome,

here are Bettiol's top Italian biking adventures:

1. Best for Wine Lovers: Val d'Orcia (Gravel Bike or Road Bike)

Nestled in Bettiol's home region of Tuscany, the Val d'Orcia valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rolling hills, picturesque strade bianche (white gravel roads), and charming medieval villages like Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano. Bettiol's recommended route starts in Siena, famous for its Palio horse race, and winds through the Val d'Orcia's breathtaking landscape.

The region is perfect for wine lovers, offering opportunities to sample local specialties such as Montalcino's renowned Brunello wine and Pienza's famous pecorino cheese. "You can go wine tasting in Montalcino and try Pienza's pecorino," Bettiol says. He recommends a stop at the Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona winery in Montalcino for a taste of authentic Brunello.

A ride through Val d'Orcia can take several hours or even stretch into a relaxing weekend. Bettiol suggests staying in an Airbnb or agritourism in the area: "They're all beautiful and, I'm pretty sure, all serve food made by grandmothers. That's an experience, too."

2. Best for an Urban Biking Experience: Rome (E-bike)

While Bettiol is known for his love of the open road, he also enjoys the challenge of urban cycling, and what better city to explore by bike than Rome? "Rome is beautiful," Bettiol says. "You've got to do Rome by bike." Though the city is bustling and chaotic-with electric scooters, taxis, and uneven roads to navigate-cycling through Rome offers a unique perspective on its iconic landmarks and lively atmosphere.

Bettiol enjoys immersing himself in Rome's historic streets, where ancient ruins coexist with Renaissance palaces and Baroque piazzas. A ride through the city isn't complete without sampling its traditional pasta dishes, such as bucatini all'amatriciana and cacio e pepe. "I love having dinner next to the Colosseum," Bettiol shares.

3. Best for a Pilgrimage: Via Francigena (Gravel Bike, Mountain Bike)

For those seeking a spiritual and historical adventure, Bettiol recommends the Via Francigena. This ancient pilgrimage route, dating back to the 6th century, once guided medieval pilgrims from Canterbury, England, through France and Switzerland, and finally down through Italy to the Apulia region. Today, it serves as a scenic recreational trail for hikers and bikers alike, offering a unique way to explore Italy's varied landscapes and cultural heritage.

4. Best for a Romantic Weekend: The Langhe (Road Bike)

Located south of Turin, the Langhe region is another of Bettiol's top picks. "The Langhe area reminds me of Tuscany, but with steeper hills," he says. Known for its excellent wine and cuisine, this region provides a romantic backdrop for a weekend cycling getaway. The Langhe's rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and quaint villages make it a picturesque choice for cyclists who appreciate the beautiful scenery and delicious local food.

Embrace Italy's Cycling Culture

Italy's diverse regions offer something for every cyclist, from serene countryside rides to bustling urban experiences. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone looking to explore Italy's beauty on two wheels, Alberto Bettiol's favorite cycling routes provide a perfect starting point for your Italian biking adventure. As Bettiol puts it, "In Italy, there are small towns full of history, beautiful scenery, and great food. And behind the food, there's always a story." So, gear up and discover Italy's breathtaking landscapes and rich culture from the saddle of a bike.