Gravel experiences in Tuscany between Florence, the Arno Valley and the Apennines

Land of cities of art, historic villages and wine hills, but not only. Tuscany is also one of the most fascinating destinations for cycling enthusiasts, thanks to a network of unpaved roads and itineraries that allow you to explore the territory while enjoying unprecedented views and perspectives. The Florence area, in particular, offers routes suitable both for the most trained cyclists and for those seeking an immersive experience between landscape and culture. Among the most interesting routes is the gravel ring of about 50 kilometres that starts from the Arno cycle path and crosses the scenery of the Florentine hills. After passing over the Varlungo bridge, known for its murals, the route reaches the Villa Medicea of Mondeggi and continues to the panoramic balcony of Castel Ruggero, from which the view sweeps endlessly through vineyards and olive groves, before tackling the white roads leading to San Polo in Chianti and Montemasso before returning to the city. For those with a longer distance in their legs, the Balze del Valdarno loop runs for about 95 kilometres and follows the course of the Pontassieve and Reggello rivers before plunging into an almost lunar-looking environment that is home to spectacular formations shaped by erosion (a variant also touches on the evocative Monastery of Vallombrosa, immersed in a forest of fir trees). Even more challenging is the Anello dell'Appennino, about 65 kilometres with 1,650 metres of elevation gain, considered one of the most complete gravel routes in the Florentine territory, with the ascent to Fiesole, the dirt ups and downs between Monte Ceceri and historic quarries and the climb to Vetta Le Croci, from which there are sweeping views of the Arno valley and the city of Florence.

Tuscany Region