WORDS: GIORGIA FRAIEGARI // ROLLING DREAMERS

At Rolling Dreamers, we turn dreams into reality through unforgettable cycling adventures. With meticulous planning, thorough preparation, and unwavering motivation, we ensure that every journey is not just memorable but also safe and fulfilling.

One of our flagship adventures is a four-day journey along the historic Via Francigena pilgrimage route, kicking off from the Italian Renaissance hub of Florence and culminating at the iconic Saint Peter’s Square in the heart of Rome.

Last October, I led this expedition alongside Anna, Francesca O., and Francesca G. Together, we tackled a variety of terrains, savored superb Italian cuisine, conquered challenging climbs, relished thrilling downhill rides, and shared laughter, sweat, and personal stories.

DAY 1 -> Florence - Siena (95km, 2100m D+)

After a tasty breakfast, a pleasant coffee break to savor the Florentine atmosphere, some mechanicals, and constant headwinds, we immersed ourselves in Chianti hills and then in Sienese dirt roads – the well-known “Strade Bianche” – featuring slopes adorned with vines, olive groves, and Tuscan farmhouses gracing hilltops.

We pushed uphill and reveled in the downhills, amidst varying terrains, until we arrived at Piazza del Campo in Siena, the scene of sprints or solitary arrivals of great champions. It was dark but that didn't stop us from enjoying a nice aperitif among the people before a hot shower at an authentic “Agriturismo” where we spent the night. 

DAY 2 -> Siena - Proceno (119km, 2550m D+)

The next morning, we delved into the Val d’Orcia enjoying the view of countless stretches of wheat fields, green hills, and woods, and eventually reached the small village of San Quirico d’Orcia for a quick stop. Mile after mile, a stronger sense of unity took hold among us—a helping hand for those who were struggling, an exchange of energy gels for those who had been leading the pack, and conversations about our backgrounds, personal stories, and motivations for cycling there.

As we crossed into the Lazio region, we faced the last, endless kilometers with darkness encroaching and the temperature dropping. Raindrops began to fall on the final climb to the Proceno Castle, but upon reaching the summit, all the fatigue was rewarded by the breathtaking view of another charming, idyllic village.

DAY 3 -> Proceno - Sutri Vico (108km, 1750m D+)

When we woke up, the sky was a dark grey, rain was pouring down and temperatures had drastically dropped. I recall reaching the bottom of the first descent with hands so numb it was a struggle to grip the brakes. Yet, after some twenty kilometers, the sun emerged through the clouds, warming us up.

We paused at the picturesque Bolsena Lake for lunch, ordering an unreasonable amount of pizza that vanished in no time. Soon after hitting the road again, the rain returned, sticking with us until the finish line on the shores of Vico Lake – where we indulged in a spread of Lazio delicacies and drinks. 

DAY 4 -> Sutri Vico - Rome (73km, 750m D+)

On the last day, it was mostly downhill to Rome. We were feeling pretty tired, but knowing we were almost there kept us going. Plus, the sun came out again, which helped lift our spirits. The clear blue sky stayed with us all the way to Rome, making those final pushes to St. Peter's Square feel extra special.

And thus concluded a remarkable journey, one that forged a unique bond among us girls, a connection I often struggle to find elsewhere. Cycling is typically viewed as a male-dominated sport, and even in 2024, I still sense this prevailing notion. It's why many girls, despite their love for cycling, feel excluded and uneasy in an environment that often shuts them out. At Rolling Dreamers, we challenge this mindset. We set out to create something inclusive and diverse, and I'm proud to say we succeeded. It was truly a magnificent experience