Strade Bianche of Tuscany

Among the highlights of Tuscany are the numerous ‘scenic drives’ through its gorgeous countryside. However, many of these roads aren’t safe for running, due to lack of shoulder and cars going way too fast. But frown not! There’s a series of quieter, unpaved back roads that run among the vineyards and olive groves of the Tuscan countryside, called ‘Strade Bianche’ (white road), which are fantastic for running. There are hundreds of miles of these roads, so it’s hard to recommend specific routes. But below are a few recommendations — many thanks to our friends at Love From Tuscany. Alternatively, look for the Strade Bianche coming off many of the secondary roads through the countryside.

Sections of the Via Francigena. This ancient system of roads/paths from Rome to Canterbury has 380 km in Tuscany that draws walkers and enthusiasts from all over the world. This FANTASTIC website has details on all the stages, plus GPX maps that can be downloaded. Note that footing in some sections might be tricky, and the terrain can be hilly. Some Tuscan stages/sections that are especially beautiful are:

• Pontremoli to Filetto (Leg 23). Especially nice section between km 4 and km 18 on this map, where you can also catch a bus back along SS62. ROUTE MAP
• San Gimignano to Monteriggioni (Leg 32). One of the most spectacular stages of the Via Francigena. It’s 32 km – pick any convenient spot here. Hilly! ROUTE MAP
• Ponte d’Arbia to San Quirico (Leg 35). Hop off the SR2 south of Siena and enjoy a run along the lunar landcscape of the Crete Sensi, in the 5 km from Ponte d’Arbia heading south. From Buonconveno to Torrenieri (km 5 to km 18 on our map), the wonderful hills of Val d’Orcia. ROUTE MAP

Val d’Orcia. Beautiful side roads off SR2 in the ~20km between Buonconveno and San Quirico. ROUTE MAP

Crete Sensi. Lovely Strade Bianche off SP 438 that runs from Siena to Asciano, and off SP 451 along the way to Chiusure, for a run through this ‘lunar landscape’ part of Tuscany.