Tour Overview
One of Italy's best-kept secrets has to be the hidden valley of Garfagnana, where ancient forests and mediaeval paths create perfect mountain biking territory. Nestled between two distinct mountain ranges, the jagged Alpi Apuane and the Apennines, we cycle through chestnut woodland to open mountain tracks, where we are rewarded with incredible sea views. As this area is off the beaten track, we sometimes enjoy this evocative landscape of glittering lakes, streams and pretty hilltop villages all to ourselves. These serious mountains boast an extensive network of of testing trails and country roads as well as some fantastic singletrack, especially the final day where we descend almost 1500m down to the valley floor. With excellent access to the scenic trails of Apuane and Orecchiella National Parks, our base for the week is a traditional farm that has been a hugely popular spot for many Exodus groups. There is also plenty of time to enjoy a glass of local Lucchese wine or take a swim in the pool after a tough day's ride.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1Start at an agriturismo near Castelnuovo di Garfagnana.
Day 2
Short transfer to Sasso Rosso, ride through Orecchiella National Park to Pania di Corfino summit (1609m); descend through traditional Garfagnana landscape of chestnut forests and mediaeval towns.
Day 3
Scenic off-road ride through the spectacular Alpi Apuane to the beautiful Lake Vagli. After lunch at local shepherds' village of Campocatino, we descend along paved and dirt roads to reach Serchio River.
Day 4
Transfer to Casone; ride along main ridge to Passo Forbici (1815m), passing hamlets, lakes and stunning vistas into the Carrara Marble Mountains.
Day 5
Free day to relax by the pool, play golf, visit Lucca - or take a self-guided ride.
Day 6
Valley ride through woodland paths passing the mediaeval villages and castles of Castiglione and Collemandina.
Day 7
To complete the week, we enjoy an exhilarating 1500m descent from high to low, San Pellegrino to Sillico, with wonderful views over the valley.
Day 8
End Castelnuovo di Garfagnana.
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