Spectacular Views of Florence

The route starts and finishes from the northern side of Florence's monumental cathedral in Piazza del Duomo (and where the annual memorial for Gino Bartoli is held). In as few as four kilometers, you'll be in the surrounding countryside away from the city's hustle and bustle.

The first climb — Via San Domenico — winds up the 2013 World Championship course and through the ancient town of Fiesole. Look out for the World Championship statue and take in the spectacular views of Florence below.

The gradient eases off after Fiesole where you'll find yourself on a ridge overlooking the stunning valley to Monte Morello. At the crossroads, continue on via an undulating sector to the small town of Pratolino where a swift sideroad carries you toward Monte Morello. The fir tree-lined tarmac feels alpine, and the lack of traffic is in complete contrast to the city below.

At the summit, there's a restaurant and a viewpoint before a rollercoaster descent. When safely down in the valley below, you'll avoid the main roads by taking a few short punchy climbs along the foothills back towards Florence via Careggi. Among those short punchy climbs is a Via della Pietra, a cobbled muro (or wall) — don't say you weren't warned!

Please be aware that you may encounter wild animals and cars or other cyclists in blind corners.

About Lucca Cycling Club

Lucca Cycling Club is a virtual atelier for cycling travel founded by former pro cyclist and Canadian National Champion Alison Testroete. From our base in Lucca, we host bike trips across Italy worth training for.