The Granfondo Laigueglia, a historic event organized by GS Alpi, returns on Sunday, February 22, 2026, to officially open the amateur road cycling season. This recurring tradition annually draws thousands of enthusiasts to the splendid setting of the Ligurian Riviera, transforming Laigueglia into a true cycling village.

The route, confirmed in every detail, is 112 kilometers long with a total elevation gain of 1,700 meters. It’s a challenging and spectacular route, ideal for testing early-season fitness: the first 20 kilometers, flat along the Aurelia road, are the only regular stretch before the race leaves the coast and heads inland. The climbs of Paravenna and Testico will decide the race before the descent to the uphill finish overlooking the sea.

Safety, as always, will be one of the event’s key strengths. The route will be completely sealed off for two hours thanks to the work of over one hundred volunteers stationed at intersections, none of whom will leave their post until the last competitor has passed. Fifteen technical escort motorcycles, twelve traffic police motorcycles, and four traffic police cars will ensure the safety of participants, a deployment that demonstrates the GS Alpi’s attention to every organizational detail.

The weekend will begin on Saturday with the opening of the expo area at 9:00 a.m., the distribution of race packs from 10:00 a.m., and, at 6:00 p.m., an aperitif with music open to all registered participants and their companions. On Sunday morning, before the start, Don Agostino – director of Casa Don Guanella in Lecco – will impart the traditional blessing to the athletes. Bib number 1 will be awarded to Emiliano Borgna, national president of ACSI, reflecting the strong bond between the organization and the event.

Alongside the road race, the Gravel Experience returns, a route dedicated to off-road enthusiasts that will offer a route immersed in the natural beauty of the Ligurian hinterland. This initiative is designed for those who want to experience the Granfondo atmosphere in an alternative, less competitive way.

The Granfondo Laigueglia is part of the Prestigio di Cicloturismo circuit, confirming its position as one of the most anticipated and popular events on the national calendar. It’s an unmissable event for those who want to kick off the season with a technical yet accessible route, in a setting that combines sport, celebration, and tradition.