Bologna to Florence via the passes of the Raticosa della Futa

This Tour is a classic for many cyclists: two passes to overcome with a difference in altitude of almost 2,000 meters in 115 kilometres.

Starting from Bologna central station, follow the avenues and then via Toscana. For the first 20 kilometers the road is mostly flat but after Pianoro Vecchio the real climb begins. The steepest sections are at the beginning, then, the ascent is quite constant and you can find your rhythm. Climbing passes through some mountain villages: Livergnano, Sabbioni, Madonna dei Boschi and Monghidoro, at 841 meters above sea level.

After Monghidoro come the best-known passes of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, first the Raticosa pass at 960 meters above sea level and then the Futa pass at 903 metres. During the Second World War, the two passes were part of the Gothic Line, the defensive line of the German army. In fact, on these Apennines, there were many clashes and from here the partisans and Allies managed to stop the Germans' progress. At the Futa pass there is the German military cemetery to commemorate the many soldiers who lost their lives here.

From Futa the descent begins to Barberino del Mugello and then Florence. In some areas of the centre, cycling is prohibited, so I recommend getting around the city on foot: this way you can enjoy a bit of relaxation and be enchanted by the cradle of the Renaissance.