Following the success of the retro cycling event Eroica the city of art Arezzo also has got its own version. Date of appointment is the 1st weekend of June (3, 4 and 5 June) and there is every reason to do so. Then the monthly antiques market is held in the historic center, making it a weekend full of activities.
In addition to the antiques market and the retro round, there is also a vintage bicycle market, lectures, the possibility to test E-bikes and even a course with obstacles for children. Compared to Gaiole in Chianti (place where Eroica happens), Arezzo is also a bustling city full of art and culture with numerous restaurants and cafes. An ideal opportunity to make a city trip out of it!
the monthly antique market in Arezzo
The course of the retro round is 4 km long with the starting and finishing point in Arezzo. The highlight is without doubt the ascent of the Alpe di Poti, 8 km long with a height difference of 600 meters and a maximum gradient of 14%. Moreover, most of this climb is on unpaved roads.
That the climb appeals to the imagination is proven by the fact that it was included in the 8th stage of the Giro d’Italia 2016 with arrival in Arezzo. Then the idea grew to dedicate this climb to Marco Pantani and since 2019 this has been a fact. The inauguration took place during the edition of the Ardita and Marco's mother and sister were present.
At the top of the mountain at 972 meters there is a food stand where you can eat concentrated food from the old box after the effort: no energy drinks but bread with ham, cheese, salami, sugar dipped in red wine, all kinds of pastries, ... There is even provide red wine but keep in mind that there is still more than half of the trail to be covered.
A pasta party follows on arrival in Arezzo and showers are also provided. On Saturday evening, the day before the event, a dinner is provided for all participants where you will be served delicious Tuscan regional dishes. On Friday evening, the festival opens with an aperitif and snacks.
More information about the course and the full program can be found on the site www.bicinfiera.it
