ITALY GRAVEL BIKE ADVENTURES – THE OUT OF THE BOX WAY FROM FLORENCE TO ROME

At Italy Gravel Bike Adventures, we’re excited to share one of our most unique and thrilling journeys yet: a gravel bike ride from Florence to Rome. This isn’t just any route — it’s what we call “The Out of the Box Way”, an epic ride across Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio, connecting some of Italy’s most iconic towns through gravel roads, ancient trails, and scenic countryside.

We’ve previously explored the Florence-to-Rome route via the Via Francigena, Strade Bianche, and other historic paths. But this time, we’ve gone deeper — creating a new way that blends nature, culture, and gravel adventure like never before.

📍 See the previous direct faster route Florence to Rome here

Italy gravel bike adventures – A UNIQUE GRAVEL ROUTE THROUGH TUSCANY AND UMBRIA

This Italy gravel bike adventure begins in Florence and winds through:

• Florence → Siena
• Siena → Cortona
• Cortona → Perugia → Assisi

From Assisi, the route continues all the way to Rome along the legendary Via di Francesco, ending in the heart of Vatican City.

It’s a truly one-of-a-kind gravel bike route through Tuscany and Umbria, merging artistic cities, hilltop villages, and serene landscapes. A full description of the first section (Florence to Assisi) is available here:
👉 Tuscany & Umbria on Two Wheels

THE OUT OF THE BOX WAY – ASSISI TO ROME (300 KM, 3 DAYS, 4,500M ELEVATION GAIN)

This second part of the journey, from Assisi to Rome, is where the adventure reaches its peak. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown:

🚴 DAY 1: ASSISI → VALNERINA

Your Italy gravel bike adventure kicks off in the medieval town of Assisi, cycling through Spello and Trevi, two hidden gems surrounded by olive groves and panoramic valley views.

After Spoleto, you’ll ride one of the most spectacular stretches — the old railway trail turned bike path connecting Spoleto to Norcia. This section includes long, dark tunnels through the mountains (🚨 bike lights or headlamps are absolutely essential!).

The day ends in Valnerina, a pristine river valley lined with picturesque hill towns — the perfect backdrop to end a thrilling day on the saddle.

🚴 DAY 2: MONTERIVOSO → ROCCA SINIBALDA

Begin your day in the chill of Valnerina and cycle toward the majestic Cascate delle Marmore, a Roman-engineered waterfall still awe-inspiring today.

Next stop: Piediluco, a lovely lakeside village known for its rowing community and peaceful atmosphere.

Climb towards Labro, a postcard-perfect village above the lake, then follow the spring-fed Canale di Santa Susanna — crystal-clear waters inviting you for a refreshing dip before arriving in Rieti.

We suggest stopping in Rieti for the night if you prefer a shorter day, as Rocca Sinibalda, while scenic, had limited dining options (especially on Sundays). A few extra kilometers can make a big difference in comfort!

🚴 DAY 3: ROCCA SINIBALDA → ROME

The final push toward Rome is both rewarding and challenging — full of climbs, descents, and raw beauty.

Pass by ancient Roman ruins near Poggio San Lorenzo, navigate undulating gravel terrain, and stay alert for the occasional flock of sheep guarded by protective dogs (🐶 carry dog spray just in case!).

Reaching Rome, the Eternal City, is a true emotional high — cycling into the Vatican is an unforgettable experience and the perfect grand finale to this gravel road adventure from Florence to Rome.

TIPS FOR RIDING THIS ROUTE

• Fitness level: This route can be completed in 3 days by experienced cyclists, but we recommend 5–6 days for a more relaxed pace.
• Essentials: Bike lights (for tunnels), dog spray, GPS (we recommend Komoot), and a sense of adventure!
• Customization: This tour is exclusively designed by Out of the Box Florence and can be tailored to your pace and preferences.

JOIN THE ADVENTURE

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or dreaming of your first long-distance gravel bike ride in Italy, this is your sign to explore the gravel routes of Tuscany and Umbria, all the way to Rome.

📧 info@outoftheboxflorence.com
📱 WhatsApp: +39 347 080 9904
🌐 www.outoftheboxflorence.com

Thanks to our partner Komoot and a special mention to the inspiring work of Ghiaia Explorers.

Italy Gravel Bike Adventures – discover the unexpected, ride the “Out of the Box Way”.