An additional, optional loop ride is available if you wish to visit Collodi (around 15 Kms), where the author of Pinocchio spent his childhood. Here we recommend visiting the famous park and adjacent Villa Garzoni.
Approx. distance: 22 Miles / 35 Kms
Day 4: Montecarlo to Montecatini (B)
Today’s route is relatively short offering the possibility to spend some time exploring the most famous thermal city in Italy and taking a stroll down the narrow lanes of Montecatini Alta.
Setting off from Montecarlo, the narrow lanes meander through cultivated fields and along small canals. The first part of the ride will lead you to the lower hills of Buggiano. Here the riding becomes a little bit more challenging as the route gradually weaves itself up to Castello di Buggiano and Massa. There is plenty of time to stop and wander through these charming hamlets, admiring the view of the rolling hills and expanses of olive groves.
The reward is a fun descent that will lead you straight into Montecatini Terme. From here, you can head up to Montecatini Alto by taking the short cable car. Alternatively, enjoy some of the Spa facilities that are available in town (you’ll need to book in advance).
Approx. distance: 15 Miles / 25 Kms
Day 5: Montecatini to Vinci (B)
Back on your bikes, you’ll head south, cycling among the villas of the Medici family, olive groves, vineyards and beautiful farmland. The route will take you south of Pistoia, edging Monte Albano. A short detour near Lampolecchio will take you to Villa Respigliosi, once belonging to Pope Clemente IX, and now a luxurious estate.
Moving on, you’ll soon reach the small hamlet of Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace. There should be plenty of time to visit the museum and absorb the atmosphere of this small town before heading to your accommodation which is a short cycle out of town.
Approx. distance: 19 Miles / 30 Kms
Day 6: Vinci to Florence (B)
A slightly more challenging day on the bike today on the way to Florence. Leaving Vinci, the route will take you over the rolling hills of Carmignano, riding through small villages and gradually climbing to the highest point on this trip, 400mt. The views across to the west and Florence are stunning. What goes up must come down, and the rewarding gradual descent will lead you down to the Arno river, first cycling through the narrow streets of the charming town of Signa. From here, the riverside Arno cycle path will lead you all the way into Florence.
Florence is the gem of Italian Renaissance, so once you have checked into your hotel you should head out to explore!
Approx. distance: 27 Miles / 45 Kms