Day 1: Bologna to Forlì | The opening ride into the hills of Emilia-Romagna
After the initial tour briefing, it finally begins! Right from the start, a true classic awaits us: the legendary climb to the Santuario della Madonna di San Luca. While the Portico di San Luca, with its endless arcades, winds its way up the slope beside us, we face our first challenge of the tour. At the top, a stunning panorama over Bologna rewards our efforts – the perfect place for a first espresso with a view. From there, we follow the gentle waves of the rolling hills before descending back into the plains and gliding along quiet roads toward the Adriatic coast. Passing charming villages and fragrant fields, we continue all the way to Forlì, a pleasant little town within sight of the Apennine mountains.
Route profile: hilly to very hilly – ideal for warming up with a touch of high-altitude feeling!
Day 2: Forlì to San Marino | GBI on the rocks
Today, the sound of the Adriatic accompanies us! With a mix of sea breeze and Italian lifestyle, we ride through small towns and lively seaside resorts all the way to Rimini, where dolce vita meets the sound of the waves. Then we head inland – and soon it rises before us: the spectacular rock of San Marino. With every bend we gain altitude, and the view stretches farther across the Italian plain until we reach our stage destination in the tranquil microstate at over 600 meters. The panorama? Breathtaking. The feeling? Unforgettable.
Route profile: hilly to very hilly – the perfect mix of mare e monte.
Day 3: San Marino to Arezzo | Through the quiet beauty of the Apennines
A day for true connoisseurs and climbing enthusiasts: from the heights of San Marino, we descend into the valley and follow the shimmering Marecchia River deep into the mountain world of the Apennines. Gradually, almost imperceptibly, we gain elevation until we reach the Passo di Viamaggio – a well-deserved photo stop and a big sip from the bottle included. A glorious 10 km descent follows, surrounded by green slopes and clear mountain air. One final long climb separates us from Arezzo – a city full of history and Tuscan charm.
Route profile: mountainous – a day full of vertical meters and high spirits.
Day 4: Arezzo to Florence | On winding dream roads through Tuscany
The sun bathes Tuscany in warm light – and we are right in the middle of it! Beyond Arezzo, we reach the Arno and follow it through the heart of the region. Vineyards, olive groves, rolling hills – the scenery could hardly be more beautiful. In Strada in Chianti, we feel the flair of the world-famous wine region before riding over the final hills towards Florence. A special moment awaits when the city’s towers appear and we follow the Arno through the historic center – past the Ponte Vecchio, surrounded by art, culture, and history.
Route profile: hilly to mountainous – a feast for all the senses.
Day 5: Florence to Bologna | The grand finale across the Apennines
The last day has plenty for us – and that’s exactly how we want it! Leaving Florence, we ride via Prato into the quiet, green mountains of the Apennines. Here we experience Italy at its most authentic: small villages, fragrant forests, hardly any traffic – just us, the road, and a feeling of freedom. After reaching the highest point of the stage, a long and smooth descent leads us into the Setta Valley. One final climb remains – and then Bologna appears ahead, the place where it all began. A full circle closes – with tired legs, new friends, and countless memories
Route profile: hilly – the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable tour.
Day 6: Bologna | Time to Say Goodbye
After one last breakfast together, all participants start their individual journeys home.
