8 Beautifully Hard Climbs Near Lucca

Back by popular demand as the second edition of Lucca climbs, we reveal training grounds that transform average cyclists into well-trained, persevering champions. Otherwise, take them for the beautiful suffering they graciously offer.

Please consider the next paragraph as your fair warning. 

Gates open for the Garfagnana Amusement Park from May to October each year. That’s the green light for the spandex-clad in the high mountains, and no sane human being will disregard this rule except on New Year’s Day 2019, during a brief lapse of intelligence.

The only viable exceptions are Monte Serra and possibly Pizzorne, but the rest could be a one-way ticket to the Other Side (or the nearest hospital). Whichever comes first.

Now, let’s get down to brass tacks.

8. Montefegatesi

9.4 kilometers, average 6.9%

This ride is a relative newcomer to the scene, thanks to the recently paved road from the town of Montefegatesi to Orrido di Botri Nature Reserve. Your ascent options are from Bagni di Lucca or the Tereglio side. I probably prefer the former because the descent beyond Tereglio is fantastic.

The climb from Bagni di Lucca eventually skirts Mount Coronato and its grassy, barren peak, yet the real charm here is visiting Montefegatesi, a town sprinkled with quotes from Dante Alighieri, and the intimate ribbons of tarmac through Orrido di Botri.

7. Passo del Vestito

18.8 kilometers, average 5%

Starting from the town of Massa, Passo del Vestito is a monumental pass through the Marble Mountains and over the Apuan Alps. Michelangelo’s David and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are just two examples of Renaissance art and architecture made from Carrara marble.

It makes for an epic ride from Lucca, but nothing can replace “serenity now” during the heat of summer. Go on a warm, dry day because wet Italian asphalt equals a not-so-fun slip ’n slide for overly optimistic adults. Also, proceed preferably with both front and rear lights. The longer tunnels are nearly pitch-black.

6. Passo Croce

18.8 kilometers, average 8.7%

Passo Croce is a stunning yet unforgiving out-and-back climb with Big Bench #160 at its peak. You’ll literally and figuratively die on the Cross, but beauty guarantees resurrection. After a two-hour warm-up “spin” from Lucca, you’ll ride most of Cipollaio, 10 km pedalabile—yes pedalable—before taking a right up to Croce.

First, “mount” Cipollaio from Seravezza, where you’d be wise to consume an espresso with a cornetto, then steamroll the next 16 kilometers of upward-tilted asphalt. So about 10 to 12 kilometers on Cipollaio before the final six to the mountaintop. It’s no slacker’s pursuit, but a view of the Promised Land never is.

5. Abetone

16.8 kilometers, average 5.4%

Abetone is where the Tuscans ski, but let’s not talk about snow (I wouldn’t touch rain at sub-zero temperatures with even a ski pole). In the summer, though, it’s the best 160-kilometer out-and-back ride from Lucca. The valley road along the Serchio River is a gradual uphill until the foot of the Apennines. That’s where the road pitches up. On average, Abetone isn’t steep, especially once you realize it’s practically all downhill back to Lucca from the top.

4. Pietrabuona to Macchia Antonini

25 kilometers, average 3.3%

Nestled in the Pistoia Mountains, the gently sloping pavement connecting the ten castella of the Svizzera Pesciatina (Swiss Pescia) is a liminal passage to La Lima and the Serchio Valley.

There’s a grand piazza in Pescia with several cafes to acquire another arrow for your quiver before entering the enchanted forest. Beyond Pescia, you’ll be among medieval hamlets where country folk down caffè corretti at noon and where seniors endlessly absorb the sun’s rays from public benches.

3. Official Monte Serra Test from Buti

6 kilometers, average 7.9%

The official fitness test for pros and amateurs alike, this 6-kilometer segment of the entire 7.2-kilometer climb is a telling benchmark of how dedicated and disciplined you’ve been with your training. Whether you go with a pacer or front this challenge on your own, remember: Ride the second half harder than the first.

2. Pizzorne from Matraia

9.4 kilometers, average 8.7%

Most people know of Monte Serra, but not Pizzorne. Opposite Monte Serra, at the other end of the Lucca plain, is Pizzorne: a dramatic trilogy with the ultimate climax leading from the church and bell tower at Matraia. If the grade on your Garmin or Wahoo caps out at 10%, don’t worry, the correct reading is “F me.” This section would not be an ideal time to attack. You’re welcome, and good luck.

1. San Pellegrino in Alpe

13 kilometers, average 9.9%

San Pellegrino in Alpe—with sectors upto 22%—is hands down the most difficult HC climb in the vicinity of Lucca. She has a gentler, kinder sister named Passo delle Radici, but she’s not spunky or feisty like San Pellegrino.

The closer you get to the top, the harder she makes you work. And once you’re finally there, don’t plan on coasting home. No no. Then you ride up the backside of Abetone until “La Casina,” where they have as many flavors of pies as colors in the rainbow you’ll be seeing by now. 160 kilometers and 2400 meters of elevation (from Lucca) is what San Pellegrino asks of you.

Now, Over to You

Are you planning to ride any of the above-mentioned climbs? Let me know your favorite in the comments below (plus how your recovery went). Or, if you’re looking for something a little more lax, Lucca has that, too.

Click below for a free 47-kilometer warm-up route with elevation gain that pales in comparison to the multi-step massacre listed above. Good luck with your training and thanks in advance for your participation!