The best traffic-free bike rides around Aulla

The Lunigiana region around Aulla offers a diverse landscape for gravel biking. You'll encounter thick woods, scenic ridges, and high-altitude pastures. The routes often feature numerous valleys and streams, with the dramatic peaks of the Apuan Alps and the gentler Ligurian Apennines. Expect about 80% dirt roads and paved secondary roads with low vehicular traffic, with the remaining 20% being medium to easy paths. Some sections can be rough, and rolling hills quickly turn into mountains, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Yes, the region is home to the multi-stage Lunigiana Gravel route, a circular bikepacking itinerary spanning approximately 210 kilometers. While not exclusively listed in this guide, Aulla serves as a convenient access point for this extensive route, which is designed for gravel or e-gravel bikes and features about 80% dirt roads and low-traffic secondary roads. You can find more information about this route on Visit Tuscany.

While the guide focuses on routes designed to minimize traffic, the Lunigiana region generally offers pleasant cycling conditions outside of the peak summer months (July-August) when local tourism might increase. Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) typically provide cooler temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal for exploring the quiet gravel trails.

Given the varied and sometimes rough terrain, tubeless tires with a generous section (40" or wider) are highly recommended for better comfort and puncture resistance. Agile gears will also be beneficial for tackling the region's rolling hills and mountain ascents. While no sections require carrying your bike, some short stretches might necessitate pushing it.

Yes, several routes offer circular experiences from Aulla or nearby. For example, the Cycle path to Aulla – Passo Alpicella loop is a challenging 49.6 km route with over 1250 meters of elevation gain, starting and ending in Aulla. Another option is the Gravel Road Podenzana – Cycle path to Aulla loop, a 31.2 km challenging loop also from Aulla Lunigiana.

The Lunigiana region is known as the 'land of a hundred castles.' Many gravel routes pass through or near enchanting medieval villages and historical fortifications. You might encounter the impressive Firmafede Fortress in Sarzana, or the Passo Alpicella (710 m), which is part of several routes. The broader region features villages like Filetto, Malgrate (with its 14th-century castle), Virgoletta, Terrarossa, and Bibola.

Absolutely. From the Ligurian Apennines, which many routes traverse, riders are treated to breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Spezia. The diverse terrain of thick woods, ridges, and high-altitude pastures inherently offers numerous scenic vistas. You might also find panoramic views from mountain passes like Passo Alpicella (710 m).

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.98 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging yet rewarding nature of the trails, the stunning natural beauty, and the sense of escape offered by the low-traffic dirt roads and paths. The combination of natural landscapes and historical sites also adds to the unique appeal.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are rated as 'difficult,' catering to experienced gravel bikers. For instance, the Piazzetta di Ponticello – Bagnone loop is a substantial 116.1 km ride with over 2180 meters of elevation gain, offering a significant challenge. Similarly, the Passo Alpicella – Alta Via dei Monti Liguri loop covers 84.7 km with over 1930 meters of climbing.

While the routes are designed for minimal traffic, they often pass through or near medieval villages. These villages, such as Filetto, Malgrate, or Virgoletta, may offer opportunities for cafes, small shops, or accommodation. For longer routes, planning your stops in advance is advisable, especially when traversing more remote sections of the Lunigiana region.