Cycling along the winding, sweeping roads of Italy is our favourite thing to do, and the people who have joined us on our tours have agreed. But, what if there was a way to journey even deeper into the heart of Italy; to explore hidden roads and pathways, and to criss-cross villages and hamlets that are way off the beaten track?

Welcome to the world of gravel cycling…

What is gravel cycling?

Gravel riding or cycling – sometimes called gravel grinding or adventure riding – is an increasingly popular form of cycling that combines the seamless organisation of an IBT road cycling tour with the sheer excitement of adventure travel.

Forgotten trails, forest roads and canal paths, gravel cycling is perfect for rural areas – as towns and cities become increasingly cycle-friendly with new cycle paths and routes, it’s left to the countryside to provide deeper connections to nature, the outdoors and the true beating heart of Italy.

Why is it becoming so popular?

Getting away from the hustle and bustle of towns and cities has never been more popular or desirable, and gravel cycling provides the perfect way to do this.

Turning off main roads and onto gravel tracks and paths not only allow cyclists to really explore their destination on new and exciting levels but there’s also a lot more adventure waiting for you on these roads.

As we all know, the world slowly opening up again means that travellers and cyclists are desperate to get back in the saddle and explore again.

And because gravel cycling isn’t as smooth as road cycling, it provides a sense of adventure to those more inquisitive souls among us.

Another reason gravel cycling is becoming a fast-growing and super-popular option is because it welcomes riders of all levels. Gravel paths and cycleways are a great leveller, so everyone can have a go, ride together and really breathe in what’s around them.

What gravel tours do Italy Bike Tours provide?

Any type of cycling that allows us to get even closer to the famed Italian countryside is OK with us, which is why we’ve put together four amazing gravel tours for those who want to experience something a little different but no less thrilling.

Our Adriatic Coast To Tuscany Tour once again starts off on the sun-kissed coast and then meanders inwards through Tuscany, Umbria, Emilia Romagna and Le Marche; the ‘green heart’ of Italy. Think medieval villages aplenty, and some of the best food and wine the country has to offer.

Our Tuscany Gravel Classico is exactly that – our ultimate gravel tour that explores one of the most famous regions in the world and a place that provides perfect gravel cycling. Not only do the country lanes and the gravel paths take you deep into the lush, verdant Tuscan countryside, but you’ll also experience historic towns like Sienna, Arezzo and Perugia.

Finally, for something a little bit different, we offer our Trans Slovenia Tour which takes in neighbouring Austria and Slovenia and some truly magical, historic scenery. Think Julian Alps, think Slovenia’s famous lakes Bled and Bohinj and think invigorating mountain forests and green pastures.

What do you need to ride on gravel?

Because gravel is a little more unforgiving than roads, gravel-specific bikes need to be more durable than your average road bike, but don’t worry, when you tour with us, we’ll take care of everything.

Not only that, but we guarantee seamless organisation from our entire support team, that are immersed in the gravel scene in Italy.

Give one of our friendly and expert team members a call to talk through one of our gravel tours, and what you can expect when it comes to accommodation, out-of-saddle entertainment and Covid safety. We’re dedicated to providing experiences that you will never forget, and cycling along the gravel pathways and tracks of central Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.