Unpaved Roads Foreste Casentinesi

21st,22nd September 2024

Start: Santa Sofia (FC)
Registrations open on July 15th at noon
Limited spots available

Registrations close in


Get ready to tackle one of the most fascinating gravel experiences ever as you pedal along Italy's most beautiful forest track.

We will take you to discover a unique environment, immersed in the majesty of a forest that is much more than just a forest. The Casentinesi Forests represent one of the most unspoiled forest areas in Europe, an authentic oasis of nature and silence. Along the route, you will have the opportunity to venture into a territory inhabited by a wide variety of wildlife.

The Casentinesi Forests are the last event of the 2024 Unpaved Roads season. It is perhaps the most beloved stage by long-time participants, and do you know why? Because you have the chance to experience a gravel route that will overwhelm you with its beauty and the energy of the forest you will traverse.

And as if that were not enough, you will have the chance to participate in the end-of-event party directly inside the famous “Sagra del tortello alla Lastra” in Santa Sofia. A true experience within an experience.

It will be an exciting and rejuvenating adventure for you, immersed in nature, without technical routes and without any competitive spirit. We are proud to carry forward the “no race” spirit in every aspect.

In short, get ready to unplug and recharge for a weekend.

All of this can be your next gravel adventure starting from Santa Sofia on September 21st and 22nd. Registrations will open on July 15th, mark this date so you don't risk missing out (limited spots available).

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Veduta aerea di una strada sterrata che attraversa una rigogliosa foresta verde, con due ciclisti che pedalano immersi nella natura. Colline boscose e montagne si estendono sullo sfondo sotto un cielo parzialmente nuvoloso

In the Casentinesi Forests National Park

These splendid woods hide places of deep spirituality and meditation, chosen since ancient times as oases of peace and reflection.

The hermitages and monasteries, immersed in lush nature and far from the world's snares, have been preserved over time as authentic treasures

The noble and historic forests surrounding these places have remained intact over the centuries thanks to the wisdom of the monks and forest administrators.

These jealously protected lands hold timeless beauty and represent an invaluable heritage for all who love unspoiled nature.

You will have the opportunity to admire enchanting waterfalls cascading vigorously among the rocks, creating scenes of pure wonder. The villages that stand amidst the chestnut forests will captivate you with their magical and timeless atmosphere.

See with your eyes

Welcome to Unpaved Roads,
the community of gravel enthusiasts

If you don't know us, you should know that every year we bring thousands of gravel enthusiasts to ride, not just from all over Italy, but also from abroad.

You will find a friendly and welcoming atmosphere made possible by our "no race" approach, which is also reflected in the people who participate in Unpaved Roads. So don't worry, you won't find the typical competition of other gravel events here, but a relaxed environment where smiles and sharing are the main ingredients.

Here, age and gender don't matter: what counts is the passion for gravel roads, that feeling of freedom that only cycling can offer. You will be welcomed into a diverse group of people, where you will immediately feel at home. Among old friends reuniting and new acquaintances made during the event, you will quickly feel part of our community.

Unpaved Roads is the perfect opportunity to expand your circle of friends: while riding alongside strangers who become adventure companions, you will discover how easy it is to become part of the group.

When you return home, in addition to the satisfaction of the routes ridden and the landscapes admired, you will carry with you an even greater treasure: inner enrichment. The laughter, new and old friends, and the moments shared with other cyclists will make you feel part of an extended family, the great family of Unpaved Roads.

An experience that goes beyond just cycling

The people participating in our events know well that this is not just a simple ride. Unpaved Roads means experiencing an intense weekend of 360° emotions. We have organized a weekend for you that will surprise you from many perspectives.

We will welcome you to Santa Sofia, one of the gateways to the Casentinesi Forests, where you can admire the charm of Italy's most beautiful forest within a jewel nestled in the Apennines.

A place where you can relax (or let the person accompanying you relax) by enjoying an open-air experience or delighting your palate with rich, authentic flavors of local gastronomy.

But don't worry, we have taken care of everything. You need to let yourself be guided in discovering this corner of paradise. Below is how the event will unfold.

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Unpaved Roads Foreste Casentinesi

What will happen on Saturday, September 21st?

Those who choose to arrive on Saturday can immediately get on their bikes and ride the bonus route we have created. It will be a “social ride” to start getting to know the area and the other participants.

Starting at 5 PM, there will be registration and event package pickup, which includes local products and everything you need to participate, such as the exclusive Unpaved Roads Foreste Casentinesi cap. This will be the perfect opportunity to meet other participants and immerse yourself in the event's atmosphere.

The welcome aperitif will make Saturday even more convivial. It will be a chance to make new friends and visit our sponsors' booths.

Finally, there will be the famous raffle! You will have the chance to win fantastic prizes offered by our sponsors, such as helmets, GPS devices, and clothing, making your weekend even more special.

What will happen on Sunday, September 22nd?

Sunday morning, you can still register and collect your event package from 7 to 8 AM. We recommend arriving at 7:45 AM to get to know other participants and have photos and videos taken by our media team.

At 8:15 AM, there will be a briefing, and the group start will be at 9 AM. You can choose between the "long route" and the "short route".

During the ride, you'll have the opportunity to refuel at our scenic rest stops, strategically located along the route.

At the end, you can finish the day at the final rest stop, where local typical products will await you. Additionally, bathrooms and showers will be available for your comfort.

THE ROUTE OF UNPAVED ROADS FORESTE CASENTINESI

Before we describe the route we have prepared in detail, we want you to know that it is the result of deep commitment and close collaboration with local riders, curated in every detail to offer you an unprecedented gravel experience.

Imagine cycling through postcard-like landscapes, where nature expresses itself in all its unspoiled splendor: this is Unpaved Roads Foreste Casentinesi.

We have selected the best dirt roads, those that guarantee a true gravel experience, safe and unforgettable.

We invite you to join us at Unpaved Roads Foreste Casentinesi 2024, where you will have the incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the Casentinesi Forests National Park.

Thanks to meticulous work done over the past months, we have prepared an extraordinary itinerary for you that will take you to unique and enchanting places. You will be guided along a tested route that will allow you to explore the wonders of this territory in complete safety.

Every kilometer you pedal will be an opportunity to discover the best this land has to offer. You will have the chance to experience this extraordinary adventure directly from the saddle of your gravel bike.

You will tackle trails and dirt roads, overcoming obstacles and conquering new challenges.

Suitable for all levels

Whether you are a gravel expert or a beginner, Unpaved Roads Foreste Casentinesi is the right event for you.

You can choose between two itineraries: one longer and more challenging, and one shorter and more accessible, based on your abilities and training level.

The route is primarily designed for gravel bikes, but you can also participate with a MTB.

Additionally, e-bikes are welcome, giving you the chance to enjoy the adventure without worrying about your fitness level.

Don’t have a gravel bike? No problem, you can rent one of our high-quality bikes and embark on the adventure without any worries.

Registrations open on July 15th with limited spots available.


Registration includes:

DON'T MISS ANY UPDATES

ON THE NEXT UNPAVED ROADS

SASSO FRATINO INTEGRAL RESERVE

Know that we are leading you to one of Italy's most precious gems! Sasso Fratino, the first integral nature reserve in our country, was officially recognized as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO Commission on July 7, 2017.

This extraordinary place, inaccessible to many, will be within reach for those participating in Unpaved Roads. We have designed a route specifically to skirt this protected area, allowing you to admire its unique beauty and discover its natural treasures.

Sasso Fratino is a truly unspoiled paradise, home to a vast variety of plant and animal species. Here, among its ancient forests, you can glimpse unique flora and fauna, preserved and protected with the utmost care.

SANTA SOFIA AND THE SAGRA DEL TORTELLO ALLA LASTRA

Santa Sofia, nestled in the heart of the Romagna Apennines, is a hidden gem that enchants with its welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes.

This picturesque village becomes even more charming during the "Sagra del Tortello alla Lastra," a culinary celebration that attracts visitors from far and wide.

The Tortello alla Lastra, a typical delicacy of the upper Bidente Valley, owes its name to the flat stone on which it was traditionally cooked. At the final refreshment stop, you will have the opportunity to taste these expertly prepared tortelli, made according to ancient local recipes, immersing yourself in the region's culture and traditions.

The festival, with its stalls, music, and the warm hospitality of the residents, represents an unmissable opportunity to experience an authentic and unforgettable adventure.

NO RACE NO STRESS

We believe that cycling offers much more than just competitive racing. For this reason, we want you to know that our event does not include a final ranking.

If you're looking for a Gravel event to try to finish first, Unpaved Roads is certainly not the event for you.

Our mission is to offer something different.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for an experience that allows you to lift your head, admire breathtaking landscapes, and share the love of cycling with a community of enthusiasts, you are in the right place.

We believe that the bicycle is a means of discovery, exploration, escape from daily routine, friendship, and freedom.

This is why we created Unpaved Roads, an event that offers you the opportunity to ride along the most spectacular Gravel roads, surrounded by hundreds of other enthusiasts like you.

Unpaved Roads is much more than a simple race. It is an invitation to fully experience the adventure, create special connections, and enjoy every single moment on your bicycle.

WE DO THE BEST FOR YOU
(AND WE LOVE IT)

Behind the name "Unpaved Roads" lies much more than just a series of gravel events. We are people like you, passionate about cycling, who have decided to commit ourselves to those who love to ride.

For us, it is essential to enhance the territories where our events take place, creating unique routes that will surprise you. Each route is the result of careful planning, studied in detail to offer you an exceptional experience while riding your bike.

But we don't stop at just creating the routes. We work closely with local people, promoting local activities and specialties. We want you to experience unique sensations and emotions, immersing yourself in the authenticity of local communities and the beauty of their landscapes.

FULL MEDIA COVERAGE

During the event, we won't just be spectators. We will be there with you, pedal by pedal, to capture your best moments and make them eternal.

Our photographers and videographers will be present along the entire route, ready to immortalize your passion, determination, and enthusiasm when you're on the bike. It will be your smiles, the challenges overcome, and the breathtaking landscapes that come to life through our images.

But it doesn't end there! We won't just take photos, but we will also be ready to gather your emotions and stories.

We will conduct interviews to capture your experiences, thoughts, and passion for gravel cycling. We want to give voice to your adventure and share it with those who weren't fortunate enough to participate.

These precious memories will be shared with all the event participants. You will have the opportunity to relive those magical moments and share your adventures with friends, family, and gravel cycling enthusiasts worldwide. It will be a collective testimony of passion, determination, and love for cycling.

FAQ

Medical Certificate

For all participants it is MANDATORY to present the medical certificate to the organization.

The accepted certificates are (1 or 2):
1. Certificate of suitability to practice sporting activities of particular and high cardiovascular commitment. You can find the model here.
2. Competitive Medical Certificate for Cycling.

The medical certificate must expire after July 7 2024 and must be uploaded to your user area on bikeadventureseries.com.

If the medical certificate is not compliant, it will be rejected and the member will have to send a new compliant one within the established timeframe.

Anyone who does not comply with this requirement will not be considered regularly registered and is not entitled to a refund of the registration fee.

Each participant must declare according to the Presidential Decree. n. 445 of 28 December 2000 that the documents forwarded by him are truthful and correspond to the originals in his possession.

The medical certificate must be uploaded to the user profile by the 15th of June 2024

Why do I have to present the medical certificate if it is not a competition?

Even though Unpaved Roads is not a race, the presentation of a medical certificate is still required to participate in the event. This requirement is standard for participation in any sporting event and is aimed at ensuring the safety and health of all participants.

Furthermore, the medical certificate offers the opportunity to check your health condition before embarking on a cycling experience such as Unpaved Roads. You can find further information on the procedure for submitting the medical certificate in the dedicated section.

How to participate in the Unpaved Roads Bormio?

Registration for the Unpaved Roads Bormio will open on May 13th at noon. To register, simply follow Bike Adventure Series’s online registration process. Entries are limited in number.

Can I register a friend?

Each participant must have an associated user profile to be able to upload the certificate and access all the news on the Bike Adventure Series portal, which we will reveal little by little. So you CANNOT directly register a friend or add two products to your cart, as you must have all the required data at the time of registration.

If you want to register a friend, make sure you have all their details and create a user profile with their email address. This is very important for the management not only of the certificate but also of all the news that we will communicate to you.

NOTE: Each participant must have a unique user profile, but payment can be made from the same source. Therefore, you can correctly fill in the fields for him, by entering his email address, but you can make the payment with your card or PayPal.

What happens after registration?

Once you have completed registration and made payment, you will automatically receive an order confirmation email. We advise you to keep an eye on your spam folder because the email could end up there.

If you do not receive the order notification email, don't worry, the PayPal or credit card payment receipt will constitute confirmation of registration.

For any problem, contact the organization via email at: [email protected]. IMPORTANT: Save the address [email protected] among your contacts to prevent emails from ending up in spam. We can't track who receives emails. The next official communication will be sent via email in the week following the registration closing date.

When will I receive the digital guide?

The digital guide is a precious document that contains all the information that every participant needs to know about the event. This detailed document includes the starting location with the relevant pin on Google Maps, the times of the event and activities, a description of the routes, the provisional and definitive tracks, the discounts offered by the sponsors, the overnight stay agreements (if applicable), and so on.

You will receive the digital guide in the week following the closing of registration for the event.

The guide will be sent via a link, meaning you will have access to all updates and communications in real time. We strongly recommend that you read the guide carefully, as all the information you need will be contained within. Typically, we send two emails to attendees before the event, titled 'Official Communication No. 1' and 'Official Communication n. 2'. Additionally, we typically make a social media post to inform attendees. If you do not receive the emails, please contact the organization. However, don't worry, as all the most important information will be available in the digital guide.

When will I receive the route?

The routes are contained within the digital guide. In the beginning, you will receive provisional tracks, which will be useful for studying the route in detail.

Initially, the tracks will be sent via the Komoot link, one of the best applications on the market, which will allow you to examine the characteristics of the routes, such as climbs and descents, among other things.

A week before the event, in the digital guide, you will find the link to download the definitive tracks in .gpx format, which you can then insert into your GPS navigators. All this information will be available in the digital guide.

How can I understand if I will be able to face the route?

To understand if you are ready to tackle one of our routes, keep these indications in mind:

Distance and Altitude: Inside the site, you will find information on the total kilometers of the route and the difference in altitude. This data will give you an idea of the length and difficulty of the route. Carefully consider whether you are ready to face such a challenge based on your experience.

Cycling Experience: Although our routes are designed to suit expert and beginner cyclists, it is advisable to have some experience riding on dirt roads. If you're a beginner, you may want to start with an easier path to gain confidence.

Technical Sections: Carefully read the description of the route provided by the digital guide and the Komoot links. Any technical or difficult sections will be highlighted. If you encounter a section that exceeds your capabilities, don't worry, you can always get off the bike and continue on foot. There is no judgment or shame in this.

Planning: Make sure you are well prepared. Make sure you have the right clothing for the weather conditions, enough food and water, and a bicycle in good condition. Careful planning is essential for a successful day.

Safe Driving: Remember that Unpaved Roads is not a competition. Don't take excessive risks. If at any time you feel unsafe or unsafe on any part of the route, don't hesitate to get off your bike and continue on foot. Your safety is the main priority.

In conclusion, carefully evaluate these aspects and come and have fun at Unpaved Roads where you will not find any competitive anxiety. The main goal is to enjoy cycling and adventure in nature. Don't be afraid to take a conservative approach and adapt the route to your needs. Your safety first.

With what type of bike is it possible to participate?

The Unpaved Roads was designed and developed for lovers of gravel roads. The gravel bicycle is the most suitable to participate but all types of off-road bicycles are allowed, including gravel, mountain bikes (MTB) and electric mountain bicycles (e-MTB). If you have a road bike, this is not suitable for the event routes. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to contact the organization

Registration has already closed, is there a chance to still participate?

If registration has already been closed, there is no way you can participate in Unpaved Roads. That is why we encourage you to meet the registration timeline.

I am registered but I am unable to participate, can you send me the event pack?

The event package must be collected in person during the times specified in the digital event guide. We do not ship event packages. We invite you to follow the instructions provided in the digital guide to collect your pack and participate in the event.

Can the event pack be collected by another person?

Yes, another person can collect the event pack for you, but a specific procedure must be followed.

Before collecting, contact the event organizers via email to let them know that you would like to authorize another person to collect the pack for you. Furthermore, you must present a written and signed proxy and the identity document of the person for whom you are making the collection.

These documents (signed delegation and photocopy of the document) must be delivered directly when collecting the event pack. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions provided by the organizers to ensure a hassle-free pick-up.

I am registered; how will I follow the route?

All participants will be provided with GPS tracks of the three routes (long and short). Each participant can then properly follow the route with their own GPS device or smartphone app.

I am registered but cannot participate. Is there a refund?

As per the regulations that you must compulsorily read before registering, there is no refund/ partial refund/ shifting of registration to the following year/ transfer of one's registration to another person.

Will I find refreshments points along the route?


All participants will enjoy the welcome drink.

There will be 2 refreshments on the route (1 on the short course) during the event.

At the event’s end, everyone can participate in the final refreshment.

May I ride an e-bike?

Unpaved Roads is an event open to e-bikes.

What do I need to bring?


All participants must have mechanical breakdown equipment such as an inner tube, pump, tire chaser and first aid kit.

All participants should have appropriate clothing depending on the weather conditions.

There will be no broom service during the event.

Will I find mechanical assistance along the way?


Unpaved Roads is an adventure experience, and in keeping with its spirit, you won't find any mechanical assistance along the way.

It is each participant's responsibility to be self-sufficient and to carry a repair kit to address any mechanical issues during the trip.

This is part of the adventure and helps make the experience even more rewarding. Prepare properly, know your bike and how to make basic repairs, so you can deal with any unexpected events that may arise along the way.

Challenge and autonomy are an integral part of Unpaved Roads.

Can I rent a bicycle?

All participants will receive a list of shops, contained within the digital guide, where they can request a rental bicycle.

Cancellation or shifting of the event

Cancellation - If, for reasons of force majeure that do not depend on the organization but on environmental and/or health causes at the national or international level, the event cannot take place, the amount paid at the time of registration will not be refunded but will be considered valid for the next edition. However, for those who should register for the next edition free of charge, the organization will be entitled to a contribution of secretarial fees and renewal of the sports card.

Shifting - In addition, due to force majeure or other serious reasons, which would jeopardize the preparation of the event or the participation in it by several people not less than half of those registered, the Organization reserves the right to move the place and/or date of the event within the same calendar year. In this case, the fee paid for registration will be valid for the event on the rescheduled date at no additional cost to those registered. Movement of registration to the following year's edition is not possible in this case.

The event will also be held in case of bad weather, subject to the abovementioned provisions.

Questions?

Contact at [email protected] or chat with us on WhatsApp.

Ricevi gli aggiornamenti

We are proudly part of the Bike Adventure Series, the European series of gravel and bikepacking events that promotes the concept of “no race.”

Why did we want to join? Because creating memorable gravel events is not enough for us; it has never been our primary goal. Since we started Unpaved Roads, there was something more meaningful we wanted to do.

We aim to promote a philosophy that combines a passion for gravel roads with an exploratory approach that does not consider competition, inviting each participant to push their limits and discover new places.

The bicycle becomes something more than just a means to an end. Instead, it transforms into a tool for experiencing new adventures and seeing places never seen before, igniting that spark of adventure that each of us carries within.

When we envisioned Unpaved Roads, we thought of all this because it is what we have experienced over the years.

For us, cycling has not just meant tens of thousands of kilometers ridden, but also incredible personal enrichment from many perspectives. People met, places visited, experiences shared, joys, new friends, and much more.

This, for us, is what makes a gravel event truly memorable and worth experiencing.

Within the Bike Adventure Series, we found exactly this same spirit, so we did not hesitate for a moment to join.

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