There are stories that are born almost as a joke and end up becoming legend. The "Tagliagambe" is one of them. Born in 2005 from the goliardic idea of four friends from Marciana Marina who, around the table of a pub and after a few too many drinks, decided to challenge each other without any training in the ascent of Mount Perone, this event is now one of the most iconic, tough and awaited sporting events on the whole Island of Elba.
Saturday, June 20, 2026 will renew the myth of a time trial that attracts professional and amateur athletes from all over Italy and half of Europe (with a large presence of fans from Germany, England and Austria), united by the desire to challenge not so much their opponents as their own limits.
The route is as linear in its conception as it is ruthless in its execution: 9 kilometers of continuous ascent connecting the sea level of Marciana Marina to the fountains of Monte Perone.
Open to both cyclists and runners, the Tagliagambe owes its name to its severe gradients, which touch 14 percent in several sections. It is a demanding course, requiring perfect energy management and great mental strength. The fatigue of the climb, however, is repaid by the wild beauty of the surrounding nature, with hairpin bends that climb through chestnut forests providing breathtaking views of both sides of the island.
The technicality and toughness of this ascent are also certified by big names in world sports. On these identical roads Alex Zanardi trained hard in the period immediately preceding the 2016 Rio Olympics. The champion from Emilia publicly praised the beauty of Elba but did not hide the extraordinary difficulty of the route, calling it a perfect test bed for those seeking maximum physical performance on the handbike.
Location: The starting line is set in the center of Marciana Marina. The event runs along the provincial road that climbs to Mount Perone.
Race spirit: Competitive but inclusive. The real goal for most participants is the title of finisher and breaking their personal best.
Who it's for: Road cyclists, climbers, runners accustomed to uphill trails and spectators who want to cheer on athletes at the toughest points of the course.
