Nove Colli
The oldest granfondo in the world: when Cesenatico celebrates a legendary cycling event.
Welcome to Cesenatico, set along Italy’s famed Adriatic coast and birthplace of Marco Pantani, which each spring comes alive with the world’s oldest granfondo, the legendary Nove Colli. This iconic cycling event in Italy is a full-on celebration of road cycling, culture, and the fierce beauty of Emilia-Romagna, a region famed for its warm hospitality and exceptional cuisine. Since 1971, the Nove Colli has attracted thousands of passionate cyclists from around the world to test themselves on nine epic climbs, soak up authentic Romagna hospitality, and ride in the footsteps of cycling legends.
Set in the rolling hills and rugged Apennines of Romagna, the Nove Colli cycling race delivers a uniquely atmospheric experience. Its challenging ascents — including the infamous Barbotto (with ramps over 18 %) and Pieve di Rivoschio — wind through vineyards, medieval villages, and panoramic ridgelines that define the region’s cycling heritage. On race day, riders set off at dawn from the scenic harbour of Cesenatico, where Pantani’s legacy lives on in every cheering crowd and climb.
What makes the Nove Colli Granfondo a bucket-list event for international riders is more than just its demanding route. This Italian granfondo is renowned for its flawless organization, pro-level logistics, and the electric atmosphere created by cycling pros, ex-pros, and devoted fans lining the roads.
If you’re planning a cycling holiday in Italy, the Nove Colli offers the perfect mix of challenge, camaraderie, and Italian lifestyle. Expect to push your limits, share the road with passionate cyclists, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Romagna: from cheering crowds on the climbs to the famous pasta party at the finish. This is not just a race. It’s the ultimate festival of road cycling and a true celebration of Italy’s cycling soul.
The Routes
Gran Fondo Nove Colli – The Full Legend
The Granfondo Nove Colli is the original and most iconic granfondo route — a true endurance test that defines the spirit of Italian granfondos. Covering 189 km and 3,265 m of climbing, it links the nine legendary hills of Romagna in a stunning loop from Cesenatico through the Apennines. Riders face the famous ascents of Polenta, Pieve di Rivoschio, and the fearsome Barbotto (with ramps touching 18 %), followed by Tiffi, Perticara, and Gorolo before descending back to the Adriatic coast.
This is a route that demands strategy as much as strength — relentless gradients, fast descents, and crowds of cheering locals on every summit. The Nove Colli Granfondo embodies the best of cycling in Emilia-Romagna: smooth tarmac, sweeping views, and the passion of a region that lives and breathes cycling. For fit and experienced riders, it’s an unforgettable challenge and a rite of passage among the world’s great granfondo events.
Medio Fondo Nove Colli – The Classic Challenge
The Nove Colli Medio Fondo offers a slightly shorter but equally rewarding version of Italy’s most historic cycling event. At 138 km with around 1,827 m of elevation gain, it follows the same opening climbs as the full Granfondo — including the celebrated Barbotto — before looping back through the scenic Romagna countryside. The route weaves past vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop villages that showcase the beauty of Emilia-Romagna’s cycling heartland.
Perfect for strong amateur riders and those seeking a more manageable day out, the Medio Fondo balances challenge and enjoyment. You’ll experience the same professional organization, local hospitality, and festival atmosphere that make the Nove Colli Granfondo a must-ride for cyclists from around the world.
Tours that Include this Event
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