The best cycling routes around Coreglia Antelminelli

The Rocca Ariostesca is a medieval fortified military structure located in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. The rocca is the symbol of the city and overlooks the central Piazza Umberto I. It owes its name to having been the seat of the Este government and to having hosted, from 1522 to 1525, as governor of the Garfagnana of the Este, the poet Ludovico Ariosto, who was succeeded in the following century by Fulvio Testi. A small outpost already existed on the site in the 10th century, but it can be said that the original structure of the Rocca as we know it today dates back to the 12th century; modified throughout the 13th century, it was significantly enlarged in the early 14th century by Castruccio Castracani, who determined an enlargement of the entire village walls. It was then Paolo Guinigi who ordered the construction of the imposing tower located in the center of the Rocca, adorned with the civic clock, which over time was also used as a prison. The terrace overlooking the square was erected in 1675, coinciding with the opening of the monumental arch of access to the city center. The internal furnishings have been lost, among which the tapestries that adorned the "Sala dei Principi" (Hall of the Princes) are known. The Rocca was damaged during the Second World War and subsequently restored. As a venue for exhibitions and cultural events, it houses the Archaeological Museum in its halls, which preserves numerous artifacts and testimonies from the prehistoric, Ligurian-Apuan, and Etruscan periods in Garfagnana.

The Walls of Lucca are one of the most famous historical monuments in Italy, known worldwide for being the only Renaissance city walls to have survived completely intact to this day. Built between 1504 and 1648 mainly to defend against the expansionist ambitions of Florence, they completely surround the historic center of the city. During the 19th century, by the will of Maria Luisa of Bourbon, the military fortification was transformed into an immense elevated public park and a charming tree-lined promenade.

The Walls of Lucca, built between the 16th and 17th centuries, are among the best-preserved Renaissance fortifications in Europe. Approximately 4 km long, they completely surround the historic center and today host a large tree-lined park, perfect for walks and bike rides. From the top of the walls, you can admire splendid views of the city and the surrounding hills.

The dirt road is fairly good and easily passable; the cycle path is wide and quite busy and, above all, it avoids crossing the main road which is very busy.

The city walls of Lucca are very impressive

It was so nice to be able to cycle on the walls that I didn't even want to leave it. The very wide path facilitates mutual space.

A very beautiful bridge over the Lima River in Fornoli. For pedestrians and cyclists only. The best way to cross the river to the quieter side.

Ponte della Maddalena, or Ponte del Diavolo, is one of those places that will leave you speechless. It is located in Borgo a Mozzano and is truly unique with its very high arch and slightly crooked shape that makes it different from any other medieval bridge. It is absolutely worth stopping: the atmosphere is special. Crossing it on foot is an experience, and if you are on a bike, be careful of the stone section that can be slippery. There is also a bar nearby with a beautiful view of the bridge, perfect for a break before getting back on the road.