Levi's GranFondo

Six routes through Sonoma County wine country, from an 8-mile family parade to the 120-mile Gran — Levi’s GranFondo has made Windsor its home and turned late April into a cycling holiday for thousands of riders arriving from across the world. The roads are marshaled, the aid stations are well-stocked, and the vineyard views don’t stop. What started with Levi Leipheimer in 2010 has become one of the most polished gran fondos in North America, with a full festival at the finish that keeps the vibe going well past the last finisher.

The route choices mean everyone finds their level. The Piccolo (38 miles) rolls through gentle wine country on fast tarmac — a strong choice for newer riders wanting a beautiful day without a sufferfest. The Medio (61 miles) is the quintessential Sonoma weekend ride, with two notable climbs and three aid stations. The Geysers (79 miles, 5,755ft) pushes into serious territory, threading through North America’s largest geothermal region with sweeping county views. The Gran (120 miles, 10,226ft) is the full statement.

Proceeds support programs for at-risk youth, and the post-ride festival is open to the public with live music, a vendor expo, and race coverage. Stick around — this is the kind of event riders keep calling a life-changer, and reading a few of the testimonials, it’s not hard to see why.