Apennines, rivers and forests – three routes from Bologna to Florence

After riding for so long on the flat, I decided to test myself and start climbing. My first attempt was from Bologna to Florence, and although it was pure suffering, I’ll always remember that Sunday in October: the autumn colours, the other cyclists for company, the open views. This trial gave me the confidence I needed to start discovering other climbs and other trails from Bologna to Florence.

With this Collection, I offer you three routes to discover the hills and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines between Bologna and Florence. There’s something for everyone, no matter your ability. The routes are suitable both for those who are training for an event and for those who simply want to enjoy a day or two in the mountains. If you’re starting now with the climbs, I recommend the first route (through the Reno Valley), then you can try the others that have even greater elevation gain.

Starting in Bologna, the Tours will take you through valleys along rivers and up into the mountains. The arrival in Florence is always satisfying, you still feel the fatigue of the climb and the adrenaline rush of the final descent as the beauty of the city of art overwhelms you. In some parts of the city, there are pedestrian areas where you have to dismount. The city is very crowded so it pays to explore its history, art and culture on foot.

In these itineraries, you’ll tackle the Futa, Raticosa and Giogo Passes, and cross the Acquerino Cantagallo Nature Reserve, where you’ll find the Acquerino Pass.

The three itineraries all have the Bologna station as their starting point and the Florence station as their arrival. You could, however, continue the adventure along the Via Francigena either heading south to Rome or north to Switzerland.

The Tours in this Collection are possible year-round, except in winter, because you might find snow at higher altitudes. Once in April, I set off from a warm Bologna in a t-shirt only to find myself in snow at the Futa Pass. So, I always recommend that you do a pre-departure weather check. In autumn, you can appreciate the beauty of the colours of the trees, while in spring you can admire nature awakening.

Along the trails, you’ll find many water fountains where you can fill your water bottle. I recommend bringing sandwiches and snacks because the climbs can take all your energy away, as happened to me the first time. However, along the way, you’ll find many historic trattorias where they make all kinds of tagliatelle and tortelli (the potato ones are great). You can do each Tour in a day or two days: there are both campsites and excellent agritourisms along the roads. Finally, don't forget a spare inner tube and tools to repair your bike in case of minor breakdowns.