Costa degli Etruschi Grand Tour - Loop 1

This route can start at various points, taking advantage of the convenient train-to-bike intermodal service offered at the stations in Vada, Castiglioncello, Cecina or Bolgheri. 

Although the route can be ridden in either direction, we will describe it starting from Rosignano and cycling counterclockwise. This way, you avoid the steepest climbs, which will be easier to tackle on the descent.

Before you set off, it’s worth stopping at the Castle of Rosignano. From up there, the view of the coast and the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago offers a magnificent panorama—the perfect way to start your day. The trail descends towards the sea and leads you through the Tomboli di Cecina Nature Reserve, a quiet coastal pine forest where the scent of pine resin mingles with the waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea. After passing Marina di Bibbona, continue at a leisurely pace through neatly arranged vineyards and cypress-lined avenues until reaching the outskirts of Bolgheri. From here, the route changes character as you begin to gain elevation heading inland, where the physical exertion starts to take its toll. Tackle the climb that leads you to Casale Marittimo and Montescudaio, picturesque medieval villages perched on the hillside. Take some time to explore these places and catch your breath, while enjoying sweeping views of the picturesque Tuscan countryside. Continue your journey, heading further inland and passing through the villages of Pomaia, Pastina and Santa Luce. Shortly afterward, you come to Lake Santa Luce, a nature reserve managed by LIPU (the Italian Bird Protection League) surrounded by calm waters and dense vegetation, savoring the greenest and most relaxing part of the entire loop. Leaving the lake behind, get your legs moving again to tackle the climb up to Poggio Pelato, which requires one last burst of effort—one that’s well worth it for the view—before descending back toward the coast. Once you reach the town of Castiglioncello, the route takes you back south, finally bringing you back to Rosignano Marittimo, thus completing an unforgettable and rewarding loop.