The best road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia
4.5
(45)
1,349
riders
31
rides
Road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia traverse a landscape characterized by rolling clay hills, expansive agricultural fields, and scattered cypress groves. The region features a mix of gentle ascents and descents, offering varied terrain for road cyclists. This area is known for its distinctive "crete" formations, which are eroded clay hills, providing a unique backdrop for rides. The routes often connect historic villages and offer panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
Best road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
5.0
(3)
53
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
41
riders
82.3km
04:43
1,930m
1,930m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.0
(1)
27
riders
86.8km
05:10
1,970m
1,970m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
22
riders
36.9km
01:58
730m
730m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
36.7km
01:45
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
I crossed it in the middle of August, the thermometer at 44 degrees, I will remember it for a long time...
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Recommended to go there around sunset time, really very nice.
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A small paradise in the Tuscan hills, in the heart of the Val d'Orcia, just a few minutes from Pienza....
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Spectacular Medieval Village with a wonderful view of the Val D'Orcia
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Viery small town/village which on the Sun midday I visited was devoid of commerce. The village is at the end of the first and biggest of the "Big Climbs" out of the floor of Val d'Orcia. Take a moment and explore the older part with the cute houses many adorned with painted small rocks. You can also catch a fine view of Radicofani, still 10 - 15 K away but the Tower is now clearly visible.
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It is really only possible to access the Radicofani tower via Via Marconi, as the original footpath and the small access road are both blocked. It is a bit of a climb, and has 'normal' opening hours and costs about €5 to enter. I would say it is worth it! My vertigo stopped me from going right to the top floor, but even from the next from top, the views over the valley are astounding, and the historical associations are rich.
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Arriving about 230 on a Sunday afternoon, the lunch service was theoretically at a close, but they kindly provided me a big plate of pasta (primi piatti from the lunch menu) and a glass of Sardinian beer which revived the spirits considerably.
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Tuscan towns seem to divide into 2 categories, those on the "tourist trail" and those not. For some reason Radicofani seems to be "not", even though it is full of present-day charm and (often uncharging) history. It is a stiff climb to get to from the floor of Val d'Orcia, even when cycling while the walking effort is truly epic, but worth it! We stayed in an utterly charming tiny cottage, Casa del Ciliego, and ate in one of the numerous small restaurants - plenty were open, even on a quietist Sun evening. Stocked up in the amazing tiny grocery, hidden away in the ancient 'ghetto' part of the town. You can also buy enough to make a full meal quite easily here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia?
There are nearly 30 road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy road cycling routes for beginners in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia?
Yes, Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia offers a few easier road cycling routes suitable for beginners. There are 2 routes specifically rated as easy, and 13 routes rated as moderate, providing gentler terrain to start with.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia?
The best time for road cycling in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia is typically spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is particularly beautiful, with fewer tourists than in peak summer.
Are there challenging road cycling routes with significant elevation gain?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia features 14 difficult routes. An example is the Radicofani Tower – Ristorante La Grotta loop from Radicofani, which includes over 1,000 meters of elevation gain.
What kind of scenery can I expect while road cycling in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia?
Road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia offer iconic Tuscan scenery, characterized by rolling clay hills, expansive agricultural fields, cypress groves, and historic villages. You'll encounter distinctive 'crete' formations and panoramic views of the countryside.
Are the road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia typically circular?
Many of the popular road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Tuscan Vineyard Landscape – Spedaletto Castle loop from Contignano is a well-known circular option.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in the region?
Parking is generally available in or near the starting points of many routes, particularly in the larger villages like Contignano or Radicofani. Look for public parking areas within these towns, which often serve as convenient bases for exploring the surrounding roads.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia?
The road cycling experience in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning Tuscan landscapes, the well-maintained roads, and the charm of cycling through historic villages.
Are there opportunities for refreshments or cafes along the routes?
Yes, many road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia pass through or near charming villages where you can find cafes, trattorias, and small shops for refreshments. Villages like Radicofani, Pienza, and Montalcino are excellent spots to refuel.
Can you recommend a moderate-difficulty route that explores historic sites?
Certainly. The Historic Village of Radicofani – Radicofani Fortress loop from Radicofani is a moderate 36.9 km route that allows you to explore the historic village of Radicofani and includes an ascent to its prominent fortress, offering great views.
What is a good route to experience the vineyard landscapes?
For an immersive experience of the vineyard landscapes, consider the Tuscan Vineyard Landscape – Spedaletto Castle loop from Contignano. This difficult 100 km route offers extensive views of vineyards and passes by the historic Spedaletto Castle.
Are there routes that connect different historic towns?
Yes, many routes are designed to connect the region's historic towns. For example, the Contignano – Montalcino loop from Contignano takes you through picturesque countryside between these notable Tuscan settlements.
Most popular routes in Riserva Naturale Crete Dell'Orcia
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