Campocatino

Garfagnana is a land of contrasts and tranquility, a green valley that follows the upper course of the Serchio River, nestled between the rugged, jagged peaks of the Apuan Alps and the gentler, rolling hills ofthe Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. It is against this unique backdrop that this excursion unfolds. This outing will be more than just a mountain bike ride; it will be a true journey through the most authentic facets of this region. Starting from the heart of Camporgiano—a village easily accessible by train from Lucca— the tour begins beneath the imposing gaze of the Rocca Estense.

The first part of the route welcomes us with a steady, never-too-steep climb, allowing us to enjoy the changing landscape: from the spelt fields between Camporgiano and Casatico, with the silhouette of Pania di Corfino always on the horizon, to the coolness of the forest. We’ll follow the so-called“Sentiero del Fungo” to Roggio, which is actually a beautiful forest road winding through centuries-old chestnut trees, silent witnesses to an ancient rural history.

The arrival at Campocatino marks the highlight of the day. The mountain pasture, nestled in its glacial basin, seems suspended in time. Here we can rest on the large meadow for our packed lunch and visit the“caselli,” the typical stone structures that characterize the pasture, perhaps taking advantage of the refuge’s hospitality for a coffee or a slice of cake before getting back in the saddle.

The second part of the tour changes pace and becomes slightly more adventurous. We descend toward Vagli Sopra along the CAI 177 trail, a stretch that offers technical thrills for those who love riding on rough terrain, before connecting to the historic Via Vandelli. Once in Vagli Sotto, the route becomes almost scenic: after a brief visit to the village overlooking the lake, we’ll cross the body of water first via the Morandi pedestrian bridge and then over the spectacular suspension bridge, which will lead us directly into the unique Park of Honor and Dishonor, known for its controversial and curious statues.

The return to Camporgiano is no simple stroll: after a short stretch of secondary road, we’ll take the old mule track to Roccalberti, rediscovering the silence of the woods and a few final climbs to round off the loop in style. It will be a wide-ranging cycling excursion, combining the pleasure of cycling with the discovery of the Garfagnana’s lesser-known corners.

Water availability along the route: Camporgiano (km 0.00) - Casatico (km 3.00) - Vagli Sopra (km 15.50) - Vagli Sotto (km 18.50) - Roccalberti trail (km 25.00)

It is recommended that you bring tick repellent.