Staff Report
The annual Giro Vigneti, started in 1986 and formerly known as the Healdsburg Century, will return to Sonoma County’s Wine Country on Saturday, May 17. Registration is still open for this historic bicycle tour.
Starting and finishing at Bacchus Landing, participating cyclists can choose from four scenic routes ranging from a leisurely 22-mile ride to a challenging 100-mile journey through Healdsburg’s rolling vineyards and breathtaking countryside above Lake Sonoma.
The construction closure of Wohler Bridge, however, has put a “wrinkle” in the organizers’ maps. “We are currently working on the routes, and the closing of the Wohler Bridge is a slight pain point,” said Diane Bucher of Bucher Wines. “But we have new routes that the riders have not ridden with us before. The longer routes do cross over the Russian River but this year not on ‘Big Wohler,’ but just as scenic and historic.”
The cycling event, organized by Sunrise Rotary, has already attracted more than 100 registered cyclists with several weeks remaining before the event. The Giro consists of four well-marked routes ranging from 22 to 100 miles, with rest stops featuring local treats and hosted by local nonprofits. All routes will begin and end at Bacchus Landing, with a post-ride celebration showcasing Healdsburg’s renowned hospitality and featuring live classic rock from Eddie and the Fog.
The event was created by local cycling enthusiasts who wanted to showcase the region’s attractive scenery while supporting community causes. The name was changed to Giro Vigneti (“Tour of the Vineyards” in Italian) in 2018, reflecting Healdsburg’s Wine Country heritage.
“The Giro Vigneti isn’t just about cycling—it’s about giving back to our community,” said Chris L’Orange, co-chair of the event and a Sunrise Rotary member. Funds raised by the tour are allotted to scholarships for local students as well as community and environmental projects. “This year we awarded deserving students $50,000 in scholarships,” L’Orange said.
“It’s not a race,” the Giro Vigneti home page announces, ironically. “Anyone can make a difference.”
Registration fees start at $105 and climb to $145 for the full century ride. Further information and registration at girovignetihealdsburg.com.
