Italy’s bel paese nicknamed is well-deserved. After all, beauty is everywhere. From the rugged Dolomites to the sun-soaked Amalfi coast; across the spires of Naples and the obelisks of Rome. It’s a country where natural and man-made aesthetics meet, and make history, from the top to the tip of its boot. Italy has seemingly unearthed one cultural gem after another, regardless of whether you like your art in a gallery, on a plate, strutting along the catwalk or indeed flying by on two wheels.
Italy adores cycling and the Giro d’Italia is the country’s beloved bike race. And like its opera it’s a dramatic affair. It produces heroes, villains and, occasionally, gods. In the case of some riders they are one and the same. But it’s also a race that showcases the country’s stunning landscape and draws attention to its artists and artisans; winemakers are celebrated alongside Dante here.
