Kees Langeveld rode the stages of the Giro d'Italia for three weeks, one day ahead of the peloton. Giro d'Italia - un giorno prima is a fantastically beautiful initiative. Read Kees' previous experiences in his article about week 1 and about his days in Albania.
Sunday 18 May -Giro d'Italia un giorno prima - rest day 2
After a week of exertion, the rest day in Viareggio is a relief. This elegant seaside resort on the Tuscan coast is known for its wide sandy beaches, stately Art Nouveau villas and lively promenade, the Passeggiata Margherita. Here, tourists and locals stroll past colourful kiosks and historic cafés. Together with Marieke, our masseuse whom I remember from the Tour de France 2022, I stroll leisurely along the promenade and back along the tide line. We treat ourselves to an ice cream with four spheres - Marieke's lucky number - and enjoy the sun, the view of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the smell of salt and sunburn.
Viareggio is not only a beach destination, but also a cultural place. The annual carnival is one of the biggest in Europe, with giant floats and satirical figures. No partying today, however, but resting, reading and taking a break from the stages ahead.
Monday May 19 - Giro d'Italia - tappa 10 - Individual time trial Lucca- Pisa
After a week of exertion, the rest day in Viareggio is a relief. This elegant seaside resort on the Tuscan coast is known for its wide sandy beaches, stately Art Nouveau villas and the lively promenade, the Passeggiata Margherita. Here, tourists and locals alike stroll past colourful kiosks and historic cafés. Together with Marieke, our masseuse whom I remember from the Tour de France 2022, I stroll leisurely along the promenade and back along the tidemark. We treat ourselves to an ice cream with four spheres - Marieke's lucky number - and enjoy the sun, the view of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the smell of salt and sunburn.
Viareggio is not only a beach destination, but also a cultural place. The annual carnival is one of the biggest in Europe, with giant floats and satirical figures. No partying today, however, but resting, reading and taking a break from the stages ahead.
Tuesday 20 May -Giro d'Italia - tappa 11 - Viareggio - Castelnovo ne' Monti
A tough ride awaits today, culminating in the climb to San Pellegrino in Alpe. This climb is notorious: long stretches of 17% make it a real ordeal. Fortunately, the road winds through beautiful mountain scenery, easing the pain somewhat. Located in the Apennines, Castelnovo ne' Monti is best known for its Pietra di Bismantova, an impressive rock formation already described by Dante in his "Divina Commedia". The surroundings are rugged and green, with deep valleys and dense forests - a paradise for nature lovers and climbers.
The weather is not too bad: some rain and a brief thunderstorm, but the legs remain good. After the finish, the storms really erupt. We arrive just in time.
Wednesday, May 21 Giro d'Italia - tappa 12 - Modena - Viadana
Finally a flat ride with good weather - a welcome change. We drive past Maranello, the home of Ferrari. Here lies the famous Fiorano test track, where the latest models are tested. The smell of petrol and speed hangs in the air. Modena itself is a culinary hotspot: the city is famous for its traditional balsamic vinegar and as the birthplace of opera legend Luciano Pavarotti.
The ride ends in Viadana, a small town in the Po Valley best known for its strong rugby tradition. On the final straight there is a sprint - I lose narrowly to our 67-year-old nestor, an ex-pro of Willem II. We laugh about it and enjoy our recovery curd with muesli and dark chocolate. Small ride, big satisfaction.
Thursday May 22 Giro d'Italia - tappa 13 - Rovigo - Vicenza
A relatively easy drive today, with a delicious paella for lunch, prepared by our top chef. Rovigo is a quiet town in the Veneto region, with a charming historic centre and some beautiful palaces. The ride ends in Vicenza, a World Heritage-listed city thanks to architect Andrea Palladio. His classical designs, such as the Villa Rotonda and the Teatro Olimpico, have influenced architecture worldwide.
The ride's finale is spectacular: a climb to the Santuario della Madonna di Monte Berico, a pilgrimage site overlooking the city. Puncheurs like Mads Pedersen seize their chance here - and successfully: his fourth stage win this Giro. Wout van Aert comes second again. What a battle!
Friday May 23 Giro d'Italia - tappa 14 - Treviso - Nova Gorica
The ride starts out boring, with long straight stretches on busy roads. Fortunately, we ride in a group, which makes it bearable. Treviso is a hidden gem, with canals, medieval buildings and as the birthplace of tiramisu - a perfect place for a coffee stop. Over lunch, Marieke expertly massages away the pain above my knee. Afterwards, I feel great again.
The end of the ride is surprisingly fun: we drive in loops through Slovenia and Italy. Nova Gorica is just across the border and, together with Gorizia, forms a unique twin town. The region is famous for its wine, especially the fresh white wines from the Vipava Valley. Kasper Asgreen wins solo today - an impressive performance.
Saturday, May 24 - Giro d'Italia - tappa 15 - Fume Veneto - Asiago
Today a tough mountain stage. The Muro di Cà del Poggio lives up to its name: a short but steep wall that immediately sets the legs on edge. This is followed by two long climbs, including the infamous Monte Grappa. This mountain is not only a cycling icon, but also a historical site: during World War I fierce battles took place here. On top is an impressive ossuary in memory of thousands of fallen soldiers.
The second climb of 17 km goes surprisingly well, despite a rain shower. We finish in Asiago, famous for its cheese and situated on a plateau with wide views. Here we stay two nights - time to recover, enjoy the peace and quiet and of course: a hearty massage.
Standings after two weeks of Giro d'Italia - un giorno prima
🚴♂️ 1066 km cycled
⛰️ 11,468 altimeters conquered
💪 And still good legs!
