The ride begins at the Abetone Pass, situated at an altitude of 1,388 meters. Starting from the parking area in front of the Town Hall, you take Viale Regina Margherita, an unpaved road that leads through the ski slopes of Selletta and Chierroni and a stunning forest of fir trees. After crossing SP20 near Lago Baccioli (an artificial lake used for programmed snowmaking), you proceed along the Sentiero delle Sentinelle.
This trail will take you to the Gothic Line Museum in Pianosinatico, a historic site that marked the German defensive line built during World War II to counter the Allied advance. This section of the route includes some technical challenges: the first part involves a climb, while the second descends. If you feel uncertain, it’s advisable to dismount and walk this stretch.
From here, continue toward Rivoreta via a paved road to reach the Museum of the People of the Pistoia Mountains. This museum provides an in-depth look at the life of mountain inhabitants, from their historical traditions to the present day. An initial descent brings you to a steep 500-meter climb leading to the museum. Here, a village fountain offers a refreshing stop and the chance to refill your water supply.
After visiting the museum, head back toward Abetone along an unpaved road that is almost entirely traffic-free. The first 300 meters offer a gentle descent to Rio Botre, where the road climbs for 2.5 kilometres with inclines reaching double digits. While the surface is generally in good condition, you might encounter some uneven patches, especially after periods of rain.
Once past the unpaved section, the ascent continues for another kilometre until you reach the small settlement of Secchia. Here, the landscape opens up, offering views of the surrounding fields and the Selletta peak overlooking Lago Verde.
Follow a wide and smooth road, although with some unfavourable inclines, to another unpaved section leading to Boscolungo. From there, rejoin the SS12 to return to the Abetone Pass. Just before reaching the summit, you’ll find the third museum: the Ski Museum. This museum tells the story of the region and its champions who brought fame to the sport on an international level.
The loop concludes here, but the route can be extended with additional options, such as the Maiori Loop or the 1.1 trail of the Selletta ski slope.
Itinerary curated by Leonardo Corsini
