Etruscan coast – pedalling in time to the beat of nature
Parks and nature reserves to be experienced on bike rides for the whole family.
What gives more pleasure than spending time together as a family? On the Etruscan Coast, trails linking towns, beaches and campsites are ideal for cycle rides in the company of family and friends. For those who love cycling and spending time outdoors together, a number of paths by the sea offer relaxation and fun in the cool shade of the parks and pine forests. For a ride in the countryside, the cycle/pedestrian trail in the Tomboli di Cecina Biogenetic Nature Reserve is highly recommended: 15 km of pine forest stretch between Marina di Bibbona and Marina di Cecina and continue to Vada. In the pine forest many sections of the trail are in the shade and also give access to the beach, for a break by the sea. The trails are easy and suitable for everyone, including children.
The Bolgheri Nature Reserve, between Marina di Bibbona and Marina di Castagneto Carducci, covers an area of over 150 hectares of flora and fauna, which can be explored on marked trails. The beauty of this area is that the cycle path runs along the coast, offering the blue sea on one side and the green landscape on the other. In the hinterland, the impressive avenue of cypress trees, Viale di Cipressi di Bolgheri, intersects the wine road as it descends from Bibbona towards Castagneto Carducci. The cycle-pedestrian trail descending south from the old town of San Vincenzo and crossing the Rimigliano Coastal Park is also a wonderful experience. A strip of Mediterranean vegetation flanks the protected dune system and beach, where there are facilities and beach establishments.
Continuing a few kilometres, the trail reaches the Gulf of Baratti, which offers breathtaking views of the sea from among the maritime pines and shrubs of the Mediterranean maquis. Sterpaia Coastal Park, extending south of Piombino, is an enchanted nature reserve where a number of splendid, relaxing cycle-pedestrian trails lead through the vegetation to the beaches for a well-earned break and for some refreshment in one of the many beach restaurants and bars. From the coast it is also possible to cycle into the hinterland to visit the hilliest area of the Etruscan Coast. Medieval villages such as Montescudaio and Guardistallo are within striking distance of Cecina, for example, by renting an e-bike or taking part in cycling tours and excursions that are suitable for everyone. And from Castiglioncello or Rosignano Marittimo itineraries lead to magical destinations in the Pisan Hills, like Pomaia or Santa Luce. There are many trails for cyclists and walkers alike throughout the Etruscan Coast and which are illustrated on the interactive map of the whole area.
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