In the heart of lower Tuscany, among the sinuous hills of Maremma, stone villages, and white roads that have made cycling history, one of the most original gravel events in the Italian landscape comes to life: InGravel. An appointment that, now in its sixth edition (scheduled for September 13-14, 2025), has carved out a special place in cyclists' calendars thanks to an exclusive format that combines cycling, food and wine, and territorial enhancement.

Born in the difficult year 2020, when the world had stopped but ideas were running fast, InGravel is the result of Andrea Gurayev's vision, a former professional cyclist, now the commercial and organizational soul of the event. From the roads of Tirreno-Adriatico to the panoramic trails of Morellino di Scansano, Gurayev has transformed his homeland into a reference point for those seeking an authentic, tailor-made cycling experience, far from the logic of large Gran Fondos. We spoke directly with him to discover how to build a "quality" gravel event, what makes Maremma unique to experience on a bike, and why business is now also done... by pedaling.

Let's take a step back: when and how did the idea of InGravel come about?
"InGravel was born in 2020 together with the Saturnia Bike project, with the idea of proposing a new and engaging experience, especially for the corporate world. We imagined the bicycle not only as a sports vehicle, but as a tool for relationship, aggregation, and discovery. The goal was to create a tailor-made format where pedaling would become a kind of gym for the body and the group, an opportunity to get to know each other and compare notes in an informal context immersed in the beauty of Maremma".

Was there a specific moment when you realized the project was truly taking shape?
"It was a gradual process, but in the last two or three years we began to clearly perceive that the project was maturing. Compared to other cycling disciplines, gravel has an incredible ability to adapt to a heterogeneous audience, both in terms of age and level. Thanks also to electric bikes and MTBs, more and more people have approached this world. It's a type of cycling that doesn't focus on pure performance, but on the pleasure of pedaling together, authentically and relaxedly discovering the territory".

Is there an image from these first editions that you hold most dear?
"The first two editions were very simple, almost artisanal. But it was precisely in the post-pandemic period that InGravel made a qualitative leap. I remember with emotion that edition: there was a collective desire to return to experiencing real, outdoor activities, in company. It was a special moment when I understood that we were offering something precious, something that was missing; also thanks to the great support of my dear friend Riccardo Magrini, who has always believed in this project and is its cornerstone".

You chose to limit the event to 250-300 participants. Why this choice?
"It's a precise, value-driven choice. Today, most events are oriented towards quantity, but often human contact, participant interaction, and the convivial atmosphere are lost. We wanted to create a compact, almost family-like environment, where even managers from large companies could exchange ideas and passions without the typical chaos of mass events. InGravel is designed as a tailored experience, not a Gran Fondo".

How many routes will there be this year? And what are the novelties for 2025?
"There will be three routes: a short 35 km, a medium 65 km, and a long 100 km, which we are still defining in detail. The routes will pass through some of the most beautiful villages in the area, like Montemerano, with an exceptional stop at the famous Ristorante Caino, with two Michelin stars, with chef Valeria Piccini. The owner, Andrea Menichetti, who is also the son of Mrs. Piccini, personally participates in the event, and his cuisine represents one of the most anticipated moments. Another important stop will be at Castello di Marsiliana, immersed in the Maremma countryside. Additionally, on September 14th, we will host a Social Ride, starting from the Borgo Magliano hub, an exclusive accommodation facility that this year will be entirely dedicated to InGravel".

Are there any new routes you want to highlight?
"Yes, absolutely. One of the most suggestive stretches is the tree-lined avenue of Colle di Lupo, while another strong point is the passage through Ghiaccioforte, a natural terrace with a breathtaking view of Maremma, where there are valuable Etruscan remains. But perhaps the most exclusive element is the 18 km access inside Prince Corsini's private estate, a place normally closed to the public. During the reconnaissance, I had the pleasure of pedaling there with Corso and Sabina Corsini: moments like these are unforgettable".

How does gravel integrate with the enhancement of the Tuscan landscape?
"Gravel is a philosophy, not just a sports discipline. It's a slow, reflective, and respectful way to explore the territory. It allows you to connect with nature, with history, with the culture of the places you traverse. I myself discovered corners of Maremma just a few kilometers from my home thanks to InGravel. It's an opportunity to experience Tuscany authentically, far from the most beaten tourist circuits".

Who are the partners supporting the project?
"We have built a strong and synergistic network. Among the technical and institutional partners are the Morellino di Scansano Consortium, Centro Porsche Firenze, 7x8, Garmin, Shimano, Prologo, BMC, and the Maremma Park. The support of the Municipality of Magliano in Tuscany is also fundamental. They are all actors who believe in the project and support it with enthusiasm".

How did the mix of sport, wine, cuisine, and local experiences come about?
"Everything was born from the collaboration with three friends and professionals: Alessio Durazzi, director of the Morellino Consortium; Andrea Menichetti, chef of Ristorante Da Caino; and Werner Peruzzo, who takes care of the entire logistics. Together we combined our skills to build an event that was not just cycling, but a journey through senses and territory. Each stage is designed to offer something unique: a taste, a landscape, an encounter".

What kind of impact has InGravel had on the territory?
"Over the years, we have seen growing interest in this part of Tuscany. Thanks also to the support of figures like Engineer Caputi, president of Federterme, who has supported us from the beginning, InGravel has become a vehicle to promote active and sustainable tourism. Every year, participants are struck by the beauty of the area and often return with family or friends to deepen their visit".

If you had to describe InGravel in one word?
"Synergy. Between people, companies, institutions. This is the heart of everything: creating real, authentic, lasting connections".

What do you want to convey to participants?
"I would like to transmit simplicity, pleasure, sharing. InGravel is not a race, it's not a challenge. It's a community moment, an opportunity to discover Tuscany and oneself, far from stress and frenzy. Maremma is the last authentic corner of this wonderful region: to be known, explored, lived. We believe strongly in the female quota at InGravel: in fact, in the last three editions we have created a jersey dedicated to the women present, and this year we will make a new one with an exclusive design and graphics that will be revealed at the Italian Bike Festival in early September".

What is the long-term goal of the project?
"To continue building value for the territory, keeping synergies alive and improving every year. Changing itineraries, offering new experiences while remaining faithful to the event's philosophy: quality, beauty, and relationship. We want each edition to have its own soul".

And your dream?
"My dream is for InGravel to become an unmissable appointment for those who love bikes and beauty. A people's festival, where companies, friends, athletes, and curious people can meet, have fun, and create new ideas. InGravel was born as a cycling project, but today it is much more: it is a vision".