Sunday, April 12, 2026

The Spring Classic – Marca Bianca

MARCA BIANCA – THE CLASSIC 2026: Less “Tears,” More Beer! (Maybe…)
Mark this date on your calendar (and your will): Sunday, April 12. Departure from Santa Lucia di Piave.

This year, we’ve decided to be nice. Actually, very nice. We listened to your complaints about “too tough” routes and decided to treat you to a ride… or almost.

🧊 PHASE 1: The Illusion (km 0 – 25)

We start in total relaxation across the Treviso plain. Caressed by the Piave and Monticano rivers, we’ll ride on paths so smooth they’ll feel like velvet. We’ll pass through Mareno di Piave just to warm up your legs. Arriving in San Vendemiano (25 km), you’ll find the first refreshment stop. Take your time, enjoy the moment—because the easy part is about to end.

🍹 PHASE 2: THE CROSSROADS OF DIGNITY – THE APERIGRAVEL (km 30)

Warning! Around the 30th kilometer, the moment of truth arrives. For those whose legs are already complaining or who hear the irresistible call of the aperitif, we’ve planned an official “shortcut.” This is the APERIGRAVEL: a strategic escape route that brings you safely back to base, hydrated and happy. Perfect for those who love gravel but love post-ride relaxation even more. Heroes or hedonists? You decide.

👑 PHASE 3: The Realm of Myth (and Pain)

For those who resist the lure of Aperigravel, the plain will become a distant memory. Welcome to the realm of Ottavio Bottecchia. Through beautiful gravel paths, we’ll make a detour into the Pordenone area—just to see if the grass is greener on the other side (spoiler: it’s just steeper). We’ll return to San Martino di Colle Umberto, Bottecchia’s hometown, to face “The Calvary.” It’s called that not because of the Stations of the Cross, but because halfway up, you’ll be praying to every saint in the calendar.

🍷 PHASE 4: Are We in Tuscany?

After suffering between Vittorio Veneto and Carpesica, we’ll reach the traditional stop at Borgo Antico. A little piece of paradise that looks like Tuscany. But let’s be honest—is it Tuscany copying the Marca Trevigiana or us exporting the style? Either way, have a glass (not too much, there’s still more road ahead).

🏰 PHASE 5: Hear Ye, Hear Ye… No Monte Cristallo!

We know, you’re crying tears of joy. This year we “forgot” Monte Cristallo. Don’t worry, we still have thrills in store. After the classic climb to Conegliano Castle (just to keep you on your toes), we present the Muro di San Michele.

Warning: It’s called this because reaching the top, the chances of seeing Archangel Gabriel handing you a water bottle are nearly 100%. Seeing dragons? Totally normal—it’s steep.

🏛️ THE FINISH: History and Glory

After the mystical ecstasy of the Muro, we return to the plain. We’ve saved a little treat for you: crossing a real Roman bridge. A bit of culture before the final catharsis.

🍺 THE REAL PRIZE

This whole “journey” ends where it started, in Santa Lucia di Piave. Awaiting you are not just pats on the back, but the legendary Pasta Party, the classic Tiramisu, and most importantly, a cold beer (which at that point will taste like nectar from the gods).

Marca Bianca 2026: Come for the “lighter” route, stay because you won’t have the strength to leave!