Francigena Cycle Path
A flat stage where the main interest lies in the numerous historic and religious buildings encountered along the route: the city walls and amphitheater of Lucca, the Pieve di Capannori, the Badia di Pozzeveri, the church of San Jacopo, and the historic center of Altopascio.
From Massa we tackle a challenging climb that leads to the Aghinolfi Castle in Montignoso, then climb further along Via Palatina to descend to Strettoia and from there reach Pietrasanta, “the little Athens of Italy,” the adopted home of artists from all over the world.
After visiting the historic center of Camaiore and the ancient Badia, we climb towards Monte Magno. We continue along the SP 1 to Piazzano, descend into the Contesola stream valley, and, crossing the Serchio at Ponte San Pietro, reach Lucca along the Serchio cycle path.
Good water availability, refreshment points in Camaiore, Monte Magno, Valpromaro, San Macario in Piano.
From Camaiore, we head up toward Monte Magno. From here, we take the SP1, which is very dangerous for traffic in some places.
Having climbed back up to Piazzano, we descend into the valley of the Contesola stream and, having crossed the Serchio at Ponte San Pietro, we reach Lucca.
Good availability of water, refreshment points in Monte Magno, Valpromaro, San Macario in Piano
Pay attention when travelling along a stretch of road in the Corte Ginori area and at the numerous provincial road crossings that we encounter along the stage.