Fiesole Essence of Tuscany

Ride for about 10 km in the direction of Olmo through sweet uphill and downhill roads, along Via dei Bosconi, right in the heart of Fiesole territory. An expanse of hills which reflects the ancient harmonic relationship of men and nature. From the road you will see soon the hills of Fiesole on the south, watching the city of Florence from above, and Montemorello on the west, which marks the horizon guiding your eyes down the valley toward the river Mugnone. Here a pattern of farmlands and woods dotted with rural houses and bell towers display different colors according to the season, from green and grey to yellow, orange and brown. Toward north the face of Montesenario with its monastery watches over the valley like an outpost on Mugello and the Apennines.

By the crossroads of Quattro Strade proceed onward in the direction of Bivigliano, where the municipality of Fiesole ends leaving place to that of Vaglia. After a bend on the right a short steep uphill path begins, which leads to an open viewpoint.

Now you can see Poggio Pratone toward east (702 mt, the highest point in the Fiesole territory), and Montereggi. Down the valley the Florence Dome stands out with its unmistakable shape, announcing the “Flower City” (Florence) to visitors.

By the following crossroads turn right in direction of Montesenario, your first destination, and along its mountain face: a watershed with the wider and sweeter hills of Mugello.

Here, a mountain landscape shaped by the wind, wide prairies, pine, chestnut and fir trees take the place of olive trees and cypresses.

Immersed in the silence of the thick fir tree wood of Montesenario, darkness anticipates the peace of the monastery. The Apennine Mountains come unexpected in sight, distracting bikers from the effort to ascend the top (809 mt). Now go back on the same road (the most experienced of you may take the steep and gravely road Via Matris ) until the crossroads, then turn right in the direction of Bivigliano, which you reach after a long downhill path through thick chestnut trees. After crossing the main square in the village proceed along the tree-filled boulevard and through a pine tree wood until the sight becomes wider and brighter into the road which leads back to Fiesole.

This Bike Tour is an expert-average ride, 12 miles and only 1960 ft of Total vertical climb. Circular way tour !