Apuan Alps to Tyrrenian Sea Gravel Ride

Art & Culture

Bivacco Viaggi

Ride from historic Lucca, through the untouched beauty of Garfagnana Valley, to the Tyrrhenian coast. End your journey with breathtaking views and a seaside escape.

Tuscany

Apr – Oct

5 nights / 6 days

Difficult: 4.0

ABSTRACT

From the charming Tuscan city of Lucca to the Tyrrhenian coast, this 6-day gravel/off-road bike tour takes you across the stunning Apuan Alps. Begin in Lucca, a city of understated elegance with a rich medieval heritage. Journey through the Garfagnana Valley, an unspoiled gem showcasing the most authentic side of the Lucca province. The adventure concludes at the coast, offering breathtaking views and the perfect finale—a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

Bivacco Viaggi and it’s affiliated agency Self-Guided Toscana, is a pioneering tour operator based in Tuscany. Operating since 2015, the agency is first of its kind, specializing in hiking, biking and outdoor adventures …

Tour Start

Lucca

Tour End

Marina di Pietrasanta

Best start day

N/A

Tot. distance

TBD

DETAILS

DAILY PROGRAM

Day 1: Arrival in Lucca

Upon arrival to Lucca, meet a Bivacco Viaggi representative for your bike fitting and briefing.

The first day is a gentle introduction to the city where your tour begins and will end. The city's historic walls offer a perfect route to test your bike setup. This scenic tour will highlight key features of Lucca, with a special visit to its Botanical Garden. This peaceful and scientifically important garden serves as a great introduction to the landscape you’ll explore on your bike in the coming days.

Distance: 3.7 mi / 1.6 km
Accommodations: TBD
Day 2: From Lucca to Macea

Begin your journey into Garfagnana, riding along the Serchio River, where the landscape gradually becomes wilder. You'll pass from cultivated fields to olive groves, then ascend into oak and chestnut forests. Small villages dot the landscape, leading you to Macea, where vineyards greet you. Spend the night at an agriturismo, enjoying local wine and a delicious dinner.

Distance: 30 mi / 48 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: +3510ft/-3117ft | +1070m/-950m
Accommodations: TBD
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: From Macea to Barga

This shorter, yet scenic day offers an excellent chance to immerse yourself in Garfagnana’s landscape. Ride through chestnut forests, cross the Serchio River, and head toward Barga, one of the most beautiful and historic towns in the valley. Barga is known for its noble charm and rich history.

Distance: 19 mi / 30 km
Elevation Gain: +4134ft/-3412ft | +1260m/-1040m
Accommodations: TBD
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Barga to Ceragetta

Leave Barga with a gentle downhill ride towards the Serchio River in Campia, then continue uphill through the countryside. Pass through the villages of Fiattone, Perpoli, and Monteperpoli, offering stunning views of the Apuan Alps. Stop for a lunch break in Castelnuovo Garfagnana before tackling the final uphill stretch along the Turrite River, ending in La Ceragetta for a well-deserved rest and panoramic views of the Apuan Alps.

Distance: 20 mi / 33 km
Elevation Gain: +3182ft/-2001ft | +970m/-610m
Accommodations: TBD
Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXTENSION:
Add an additional night in Ceragetta and include another 26 mi / 42 km loop ride with a stunning mix of sea to the mountains landscapes.
Day 5: Ceragetta to Marina di Pietrasanta

On this final full day of the tour, ride through the Apuan Alps, crossing the Vestito pass before enjoying a thrilling descent to the Tyrrhenian coast. As you ride through marble quarries and picturesque villages, the stunning views will accompany you all the way to the coast. Choose to stop in Massa, Cinquale, or Marina di Pietrasanta for a relaxing moment at the beach.

Distance: 32 mi / 52 km
Elevation Gain: +2822ft/-5151ft | +860m/-1570m
Accommodations: TBD
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: End tour in Marina di Pietrasanta

On your final day, enjoy a relaxing seaside visit before departure.

Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Alternatively, if you’re up for more adventure, cycle back to Lucca for an additional 28 mi / 45 km ride and overnight in Lucca.