For the Riders
Stage 3 of the 2024 Giro d’Italia is flat, with a few minor undulations in the central section. The roads are usually straight, level and moderately wide, with common traffic obstacles to be found in urban areas. A short ascent to Lu is one of the few impediments along the route. In the stage finale, the road kicks up to Cherasco, and then takes a short, final climb leading to Fossano.
Final kilometres
The last 3 km are essentially straight, with just one sharp bend 1,300 m from the line. From 4.5 km to the 3 km mark, the route ascends in wide bends at approx. 5%; barring that, the profile is perfectly level. The home straight (1,300 m) is on 9 m wide tarmac.
For the Tourists
The third stage of the Giro winds through a region that is the cradle of some of the country’s culinary staples, including rice, white truffles, sweets, hazelnuts, Gorgonzola, and Fassona beef. All washed down by the celebrated wines of Langhe and Roero. Gourmet stops will be inevitable. And plentiful.
The Piazza Martiri della Libertà is the stage’s starting point, and features a nighttime screening of a story presented through a series of projected images onto Palazzo Orelli. To become a champion, you must start with grassroots sports. This is how we tell the story: the great champions of the past alongside the young cyclists of Velo Club Novarese, the champions of tomorrow!
However, the Coccia Theatre is adorned in the colours of the Italian flag, flanked by images depicting two pivotal moments in this competition: the start with athletes lined up and Marco Pantani’s triumphant finish. An image of Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali, symbols of sporting rivalry, friendship, and respect, also features prominently on the castle’s façade.
Fossano
The peloton will set off through the vast rice paddies characterising this part of Piedmont. Vercelli offers a first stop with its intimate piazzas, particularly Piazza Cavour and the piazza at the foot of the Broletto. However, the road beckons, and it’s time to continue, crossing the Po and entering Monferrato. The renowned vineyards of Monferrato blanket the slopes along the road. In their company, we reach Masio Abazia and, shortly afterwards, Mombercelli, pausing at the fascinating Historical Museum of Vine and Wine. However, we must remember that we have entered the land of truffles.
Our journey continues to the gates of Alba, best-known for the delicious tuber. However, the town has much more to offer. It is no coincidence that it also serves as the vibrant centre of the Confectionery District, offering the most delectable products of the Langhe. In Cherasco, you will be enchanted by the Museum of Magic and the massive Visconti Castle. The day’s finish line is now near. Fossano is dominated by the 14th-century Castle of the Princes of Acaja. Yet, it is also cherished for the medieval ambience of its historic centre, home to notable examples of Piedmontese Baroque architecture. These include the Cathedral of San Giovenale, the hospital complex, the Church of S.S. Trinità, the Church of San Filippo Neri and the Old Church of the Willow. For a final toast in the evening, choose between Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Arneis and Favorita. All DOCG branded.
Ron is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
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