Between the walls of Lucca and the first hills that surround it, a perfect territory to explore on your bike opens up: nature, culture and flavors intertwine and are best experienced at a slow pace.
Elegant villas surrounded by greenery, shady forests, paths running alongside rivers and cultivated fields: the ideal way to discover this varied and welcoming landscape, where every bend reveals a new detail, is by bike.
The routes are designed for every type of bike (MTB, road and gravel) and cyclist, from the most experienced enthusiasts to those seeking a more relaxed experience, thanks to the signposted itineraries, dedicated services and an inviting climate for outdoor activity all year round.
Strade di Lucca Grand Tour
Strade di Lucca Grand Tour
The Strade di Lucca Grand Tour is the most complete route on the Plain: a circular cycling route that connects the area’s six municipalities, with historical villages, monumental villas, hills and captivating natural environments. The route starts in Lucca and takes you along the Serchio River and to the Lucchesia villas. You can tackle the climb up to the Pizzorne Plateau and then carry on among Romanesque parish churches and towns like Collodi, Montecarlo and Altopascio. The return journey crosses the Capannori countryside and the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli, along a path that combines art, nature and memories of Puccini.
The route, which is almost all paved and can be easily divided into stages, runs along cycle paths and secondary roads with little traffic.
Historical villas, camellias and timeless landscapes
One of the most enchanting itineraries around Lucca unwinds between the Lucchesia villas, true architectural masterpieces surrounded by countryside.
Places like the Villa Reale in Marlia and Villa Torrigiani tell stories of nobility, art and monumental gardens.
In spring, cycling along the routes through the Compito area - such as the Camellias and Gherardesca Lake itinerary - you will witness the spectacular flowering camellias that color villages like Sant'Andrea and Pieve di Compito in shades of pink and white, for an even more captivating experience.
Cycling around hills and villages
For those who enjoy MTB riding, the Vorno Ring and the Gualdo Ring offer a journey through small villages, olive groves and scenic ridges. The Vorno ring crosses chestnut forests and olive groves, passing through places like Monte della Conserva, Colle di Dreon and the village of Vorno, where you can visit the ancient Romanesque parish church. The Gualdo ring starts from Lucca, in the direction of Ponte San Pietro, and continues along dirt roads to the medieval village of Gualdo, dominated by the parish church of San Lorenzo and a panoramic tower.
Towards the hills and the Pizzorne Plateau
Those looking for an experience along paved roads can venture into the foothills of the Plain: from the Brancoleria to the Pizzorne Plateau.
The climb up to Pariana, from Villa Basilica, provides sweeping, silent views surrounded by chestnut and fir trees, where time seems to slow down and everything is embraced by nature.
Services and routes designed for cyclists
The Plain of Lucca routes cater to a variety of needs, with signposted trails, a mixed terrain, rest stops, accommodation, dedicated services like bike rentals, assistance and e-bike charging stations.
You can choose shorter legs or combine several itineraries, exploring the area in every season.
For more information: stradediluccabikehub.it
