Wonderful Tuscany by bike: exploring cycle tourism routes
If you love discovering new places by bicycle, Tuscany is the perfect destination for you. This region offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes, from serene hills and majestic peaks to the lively beaches of Versilia.
During your stay at Hotel Casolare Le Terre Rosse, located in the heart of Chianti, you'll have the unique opportunity to ride along enchanting cycling routes that pass through ancient villages, artistic cities, and Etruscan ruins, providing an experience of rare beauty.
Today, we recommend, in collaboration with Jenpix GmbH, some of the most fascinating routes in Tuscany.
In the footsteps of the Etruscans
One of the highly recommended routes is the "In the Footsteps of the Etruscans" cycle path, a journey of over 500 km that traverses Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. The Tuscan segment, about 200 km long, is particularly suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts and winds through dirt roads and unspoiled landscapes.
The journey starts in Prato, just minutes from Florence, following the cycle path along the Bisenzio River. Pedalling through the flat areas around the Ombrone stream, you reach Poggio a Caiano and ascend Montalbano to Artimino. From this walled village, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Tuscan countryside.
Continue towards Limite sull'Arno and proceed to Empoli, joining the Via Francigena to climb to San Miniato Alto. After crossing the Castelvecchio Nature Reserve, you will arrive in Volterra. This city exudes a unique charm with its cobbled streets, medieval squares, and Etruscan and Roman buildings, immersing you in a magical atmosphere best savoured slowly.
From Volterra, descend into the Cecina Valley and traverse the Monterufoli-Caselli Forest Nature Reserve, one of the most important areas in Tuscany for biodiversity. The route continues towards the Tyrrhenian coast, passing through Suvereto and the Poggio Neri Forest Park, until reaching the Gulf of Baratti and the Populonia promontory, home to a renowned Etruscan archaeological site.
The Versilia Cycle Path
If you prefer coastal cycling, the Versilia cycle path is an ideal choice. Stretching 28 km from Viareggio to Marina di Massa, it is flat and suitable for families. The proximity to the sea, amidst beach resorts and Liberty-style villas, provides a great excuse to take breaks between rides, perhaps with a refreshing dip or an aperitif at sunset.
Starting from Viareggio, the path follows the seafront, passing through Lido di Camaiore and its famous pier. Here, take a moment to admire the sea and the majestic Apuan Alps in the background.
Continue along the route to reach Marina di Pietrasanta, where the protected coastal dunes of the WWF Oasis are located. Heading further north, you will arrive in Forte dei Marmi, known for its vibrant nightlife and elegant beaches. Here, the pier extending into the sea offers an unexpected panoramic view of the entire coast.
The final segment of the cycle path leads to Marina di Massa. This stretch is designed for relaxation, dotted with beaches and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and admire the myriad hues of coastal sunsets.
The Gran Tour of the Maremma
Another unique two-wheeled experience is the Grand Tour of the Maremma, a 350 km loop starting from Grosseto. This route will take you through some of the most picturesque medieval villages of the Maremma, passing through nature reserves and vineyards.
From Grosseto, you will pedal along cycle paths to the beaches of Marina di Grosseto, continuing to Castiglione della Pescaia. Moving on, you will cross the Diaccia Botrona Nature Reserve and arrive in Massa Marittima, famous for its historic centre and the Cathedral of San Cerbone.
From here, the route continues towards Prata, through cork oak and holm oak forests, reaching Roccastrada. You will then descend to Paganico and finally to Campagnatico, an ancient medieval village with an enchanting view of the Ombrone Valley.
The last leg will take you to Santa Fiora, passing through Arcidosso and its Aldobrandesca Fortress. You will proceed to Pitigliano, known for its houses carved into tuff, and then traverse Magliano in Toscana, Scansano, and Montiano, before returning to Grosseto, completing the tour.
During your stay at Hotel Casolare Le Terre Rosse, you can experience unforgettable adventures cycling through the heart of Tuscany along routes that will present you with magical landscapes. So what are you waiting for? Book your stay in San Gimignano now!
Source: https://www.c-and-a.com/it/it/shop/toscana-in-bicicletta