The Grand Tour of the Strade di Lucca bike hub stands as an exceptional route that seamlessly integrates cycling, nature, and the rich tapestry of art and culture. This journey invites cyclists to traverse a diverse landscape, where sprawling plains give way to undulating hills and majestic mountains. Originating from the bustling main squares of each of the six municipalities within the Piana di Lucca area, cyclists embark on a secure and captivating expedition, navigating along well-marked cycle paths and lesser-known yet enchanting secondary roads. Amidst the verdant hills adorned with olive groves and vineyards—a hallmark of the region—riders are treated to vistas adorned with historic villas, imposing castles, and quaint villages straight out of a fairy tale. As they pedal through this evocative terrain, cyclists are transported through time, retracing the footsteps of the illustrious maestro Puccini, seeking out the very places that once stirred his creative genius. The Grand Tour of the Strade di Lucca bike hub promises an immersive and unforgettable experience, blending adventure, cultural exploration, and the sheer beauty of the Italian countryside.
Embarking from the elegant Piazza Napoleone at the heart of Lucca, this route winds through the countryside west of the city, unveiling some of the region’s most notable scenic and cultural landmarks. After a 4.2-kilometre warm-up atop Lucca’s renowned city walls, cyclists exit the historic centre through the charming passage beneath the Baluardo Santa Maria. Following the cycle path along Viale San Concordio, riders swiftly transition into the tranquillity of Lucca’s picturesque countryside. Pedalling along winding roads flanked by ancient dry-stone walls, the route leads first to Pieve di Sant’Andrea, then onwards to Gattaiola, offering panoramic views of the Apuan Alps. Continuing along the Serchio River park cycle path to Ripafratta, cyclists journey towards the fortified village of Nozzano Castello, passing by the solemn site of the Certosa di Farneta, marked by the tragic events of the 1944 Nazi massacre. The final 15-kilometre stretch, leading from the Certosa back to Lucca’s centre, offers a leisurely ride along flat roads with minimal traffic, allowing cyclists to relax and soak in the surroundings.