The Quercione

Our route starts from the Palazzo Comunale in Piazza Aldo Moro, in the center of Capannori, then crosses the Via Pesciatina, leading you after a few miles into the tranquility and greenery of the Lucca countryside. Pedaling along the remote Via delle Ralle, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rural landscapes, until turning onto Via Tofori, where you will be captivated by the beauty and uniqueness of the historic villas that characterize this stretch of the historical area around Lucca.

Continuing past the villas, begin your climb up into the hills, reaching the hamlet of Petrognano, where you will be rewarded with pretty views. The route continues along the ups and downs of the hills, leading you to the picturesque villages of San Gennaro and Collodi. Upon reaching the Gragnano belvedere, you will be enraptured by the expansive vista embracing the surrounding hills, a true delight for the eyes.

Shortly afterwards, take the dirt road that leads you to the majestic Quercione, a monumental tree ringed with history and legend. After a regenerative stop and the requisite photos, you can begin the return journey between descents and plains, until reaching Capannori.

The route is mainly along paved roads, except for the 1.7 miles (2.8 kilometers) of dirt road needed to reach the Quercione.

Itinerary by Strade di Lucca Bike Hub.