In Ripafratta, the cycle path crosses the river and continues along the road, skirting Monte Penna, whose Mediterranean vegetation heralds the approach of the coastal slope and the next stage. Lake Massaciuccoli is reached by briefly bypassing the freeway and crossing it (left, then right again) with an underpass, then crossing the fields of the reclamation area on unpaved roads and small wooden bridges, in a new landscape criss-crossed by canals and wet areas, in season, by the beloved sunflowers. Arriving at the small port of Massaciuccoli, we dismount to visit the LIPU oasis and stroll among the sedges and reeds on footbridges and sidewalks until we reach the marshy clearings where, in season, multitudes of migratory birds stop.

Finally, we recommend a visit to Villa Puccini in Torre del Lago, where the composer spent many years of his life. It was here, in his house overlooking the lake, that his best-known works, such as Tosca, Madama Butterfly, La Fanciulla del West, La Rondine and Il Trittico, were composed.

To reach Villa Puccini, take the alternative route along Lake Massaciuccoli or, if it's in service, take the Burlamacca motorboat to the Puccini Belvedere and the Grand Theater at Torre del Lago, where the Maestro dreamt it up.