This cycling itinerary follows the ancient route of the Alto Pistoiese Railway, which operated from 1926 to 1956, once connecting the Pistoia Mountains to the Porrettana Railway. The route is of medium difficulty, featuring a steady but never too demanding elevation gain—perfect for those who love to explore nature without tackling extreme climbs.
Our journey begins with a comfortable train ride to Pracchia, where we hop on our bikes and start pedalling. The first stop is Campo Tizzoro, reached by following a section of the Reno Valley, an area once famous for its natural ice production until the post-war period. Here, a visit to the S.M.I. Museum and shelters offers insight into the industrial and military history of the region, featuring a well-preserved air-raid shelter and exhibits from the local munitions factory.
Continuing, the route leads into a dense beech and conifer forest, home to local wildlife. With a bit of luck, we may spot traces of deer, wolves, and foxes, while buzzards soar overhead. The climb takes us to Maresca, once a proto-industrial centre for ironworking. In the village square, we can admire an old railway station and a restored train carriage from the historic Alto Pistoiese Railway, a symbol of the once-famous “red train” that used to serve these lands.
After crossing the bridge over the Maresca stream, we face the steepest section of the route, leading us to the highest point of our ride: Alpe Piana Pass (870 meters above sea level). From here, breathtaking views unfold over the Apennine peaks, including Monte Gomito, Alpe Tre Potenze, and Penna di Lucchio. After the effort of the climb, a gentle descent takes us to the neoclassical station of Gavinana, a village rich in history. This area is linked to the Battle of Pistoia, where the famous Roman conspirator Catiline met his fate. Local farmers once reported finding helmets, shields, and Roman coins while ploughing their fields.
For those with extra energy, it’s well worth climbing up to the medieval village of Gavinana to visit its central square, the 11th-century parish church, and an ancient spring-fed fountain. Continuing on paved roads, we reach San Marcello Pistoiese, the heart of the Pistoia Apennines. From here, riders can extend the journey to the famous Suspension Bridge of Mammiano.
Our return journey begins from San Marcello, passing its old railway station before following the path back to Alpe Piana and then descending smoothly to Pracchia, where our adventure on the tracks of history comes to an end.
Itinerary curated by Castanea – Tuscany Hiking