Reggello, nestled in the Tuscan hills, offers a unique experience for bicycle enthusiasts. Cycling through its streets, you can immerse yourself in a landscape rich in history, art, and food and wine traditions. Get ready to discover the wonders of this corner of Tuscany, where every curve hides a treasure.
The Romanesque Parish Church of St. Peter in Cascia
One of the first obligatory stops is the Pieve di San Pietro in Cascia. This Romanesque church, dating back to the 12th century, emerges among the houses and trees, framed by cypress trees and the beautiful landscape of the Setteponti. The Pieve has long housed the Triptych of San Giovenale, Masaccio’s extraordinary early work, now preserved in the adjacent Museum of Sacred Art. To pedal to this church is to step back in time, admiring the art that marked the beginning of the Renaissance.
Between Olive Groves and Oil Presses
To travel the streets of Reggello is also to travel among hills painted with olive trees. The fertile soil and temperate climate create ideal conditions for the production of the highest quality extra virgin olive oil, characterized by low acidity and a unique flavor. Along the route, numerous oil mills open their doors to visitors, offering the chance to discover the production cycle of the “Green Gold” and to taste the new oil, perhaps paired with Reggello’s delicious Cecino Rosa and zolfini beans.
The Magic of Vallombrosa
Continuing uphill, we arrive at Vallombrosa, an oasis of coolness and serenity. Vallombrosa’s large meadow near the Monks’ Abbey is an ideal place for a rejuvenating break during the summer. In autumn, the landscape turns into a carpet of golden leaves, perfect for a photo walk. The forest is crisscrossed by a network of trails also suitable for mountain biking, leading to the tallest tree in Italy, a 62.45-meter Douglas fir nicknamed “The Italian Tree King.” During the summer season, don’t miss the opportunity to join a guided tour of the Experimental Arboreta, where plants from around the world have coexisted for more than 150 years.
The Setteponti Cycling Trail
Another not-to-be-missed route is the Setteponti Cycle Route, a road of Etruscan origin that connected Arezzo to Fiesole in the Middle Ages, playing a crucial role in transportation. This route, which Leonardo da Vinci himself traveled in the 1500s to study the course of the Arno, passes through picturesque villages and enchanting landscapes, offering a journey back in time. The crags of Valdarno, unique geological formations that also fascinated Leonardo, represent some of the most striking scenery along the way.
Pedaling through Reggello is an experience that combines sports, culture and nature. Each ride takes you to discover new corners of beauty, from Romanesque churches to olive groves, from lush forests to breathtaking views. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a simple enthusiast, Reggello offers routes suitable for everyone, promising an unforgettable journey through Tuscan history and nature. Saddle up and let Reggello surprise you!
Discover the routes to discover Reggello and Valdarno with Valdarno Bike Road