We have chosen to start our Tuscany Gravel journey right in the heart of the Chianti region, and more precisely right on the classic Eroica route. Radda in Chianti’s hilltop position affords a forgiving start to the day as we begin with a gentle descent and within only a few kilometres of leaving Radda we join a section of the Strade Bianche of the Eroica which leads us on the start of our journey towards the picturesque Colline Sienesi region. It’s not long before the undulating hills of the wine-growing region start to kick in and we begin to get accustomed to the rolling countryside that will characterise our week’s riding. The rest of the day’s ride sees smooth gravel routes taking us through dense forests and past Chianti vineyards, and views of old Tuscan castles scattered on the hill tops. On leaving Castelnuovo Berardenga this afternoon we enter the Colline Sienesi region, with a very panoramic Strada Bianca route which takes us along the ridgeline of the chalky hills before descending to Asciano, a typical Tuscany town set inside old, fortified walls.