EXPLORE THE TERRITORY
What could be better than taking your time to discover a city and its surrounding area? During the summer, Empoli and the picturesque countryside around it are a perfect destination to explore on two wheels. The almost flat terrain, the traffic limited to the rush hours and a continuously developing framework of cycle paths and 30 kmph speed limit zones allow cyclists of all ages and fitness levels to tackle all the routes we suggest (which are just some of the possible ones)!
The Arno cycle path is 220 km long (still under construction) and follows the river from its source on Monte Falterona to its outlet in Marina di Pisa. The section of the route in the Empoli area has already been completed and is a flat path with splendid views over the River Arno. Perfect for a Sunday ride and also suitable for those with no previous training, this cycle path can be ridden either in the direction of Florence, reaching the Ambrogiana area in the district of Montelupo Fiorentino, or in the direction of Pisa as far as the Elsa river, which borders the district of San Miniato.
Full length of route : 13 km
Difficulty: facile, adatto a tutti
Difference in altitude: pianeggiante
With an area of about two square kilometres, the Serravalle Park is a kind of ‘green lung’ for the city of Empoli. An artificial lake, fitness trails and children’s playgrounds make it a favourite place for families to relax and spend time outdoors. This simple bike route takes you from the Park to the nearby Arnovecchio Nature Reserve, a refuge for numerous animal species. The route follows both dirt and asphalt roads, and on the roads it is advisable to pay a little more attention to motorists.
Length of circular route: 6 km
Difficulty: facile, adatto a tutti
Difference in altitude: pianeggiante
An itinerary for cycling enthusiasts that leads from the centre of Empoli to Castelfiorentino and back, through postcard-perfect scenery, along the Elsa river and along a stretch of the historic Via Francigena. Leaving the city behind, at the hamlet of Ponte a Elsa, the route winds southwards through cultivated fields in a pleasant up and down stretch that continues along the historic route of the Francigena until it reaches Meleto and then Castelfiorentino. We return to the Empoli area, ideally retracing the Via Salaiola, the route that mules used to take with salt to reach Empoli from the Volterra salt pans. Passing through woods and vineyards, we head towards the ancient castle of Monterappoli and then descend again towards the Orme river, re-joining the road back to Empoli.
If you are a beginner and prefer to hire a pedal-assist bicycle or hire a local guide, we recommend that you contact the experts at LeonardoDaVinciBikeTour who kindly suggested this itinerary!
Length of circular route: 25 km
Difficulty: media, per persone mediamente allenate
Difference in altitude: 500 mt
