100 castles route, the road ahead of us

1st edition of the 100 Castles Route

Unsupported Bike Adventure

It’s not a race, it’s a journey. Ride at your own pace, between Tuscany and Liguria.

May 6th-10th, 2026 – Start and finish in Marina di Carrara Carrara (MS)
400 km – 7,000 m elevation gain. Entirely on asphalt

Registration Opens December 10!

Be among the first to join the 1st Edition of the 100 Castles Route — an unforgettable cycling adventure between Tuscany and Liguria.

What is the 100 castles Route?

The 100 Castles Route is an invitation to adventure for those who experience cycling as a way of discovery.
An itinerary designed for curious bike travelers — for those who love bikepacking to exploring new places, meeting genuine people, and savoring the road without haste.

No rankings, no pressure — just freedom, nature, and good company.
A loop of about 400 km and 7,000 meters of elevation gain, mapped along roads we know by heart, where the landscape changes at every turn.

From the mountains to the waves of the sea, through natural parks, quiet villages, and castles that guard ancient stories, we’ll guide you to discover a land that still knows how to surprise those who travel it by bike.

Newsletter


Where to Stay? What Type of Bike?

Subscribe to the newsletter and discover previews, travel tips, events and news dedicated to the community of travellers on two wheels.

Why this first edition is special

You’re a pioneer

Join the first edition and chart a route that will become a classic. Your name will be part of the event’s history.

Authenticity on the road

A route designed by cyclists who know every rhythm and nuance: smooth gravel, gentle dirt roads, scenic stretches, and genuine villages.

Living history

Castles, parish churches, medieval hamlets — the route connects cultural heritage and landscapes that change with every pedal stroke.

Who is it for

Curious bikepackers

For those who love to travel light, listen to the road, and collect stories — not trophies.

Discerning cycle tourists

You want rhythm, scenery, and culture. Here you’ll find balance: climbs that challenge you and smooth stretches to catch your breath.

The spirit: freedom above all

No-race

No rankings, no stopwatch. Just your time, your road companions, and the wind shifting direction.

Human, not algorithmic

The route is carefully crafted — we’ve personally been to every place: roads that make sense, paths that tell stories, detours worth a photo.

Community

You start alone, you finish with new friends. Coffee in the square, chats at sunset, tips shared along the way.

The route at a glance

Start/Finish: Marina di Carrara — Distance: ~400 km — Elevation gain: ~7,000 m — Terrain: asphalt + easy gravel on quiet roads.

From the mountains to the sea, the 100 Castles Route winds through Tuscany and Liguria, bringing together two souls — the rugged, silent heart of Historic Lunigiana and the bright, Mediterranean charm of the Cinque Terre — into a single adventure to be savored slowly.

Towering mountains and green valleys shelter stone villages, Romanesque parish churches, and medieval castles. It’s an untouched landscape, crossed by rivers and protected by chestnut and beech forests climbing toward the Apennines and the Marble Mountains.

Here, time moves slowly: you ride through peaceful scenery, along ancient ridge paths and through communities that preserve authentic traditions and flavors.

Descending toward the coast, the route reaches the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site — with terraced vineyards overlooking the sea, panoramic trails, and colorful villages where the journey meets the scent of salt air.

Registration Opens December 10!

Be among the first to join the 1st Edition of the 100 Castles Route — an unforgettable cycling adventure between Tuscany and Liguria.

F.A.Q.

The route runs mainly on paved roads, with short sections of white roads or light gravel. A sturdy road bike, a gravel bike, or a lightweight MTB is therefore recommended, equipped with easy gears to handle the steeper climbs. Tires should provide comfort and safety even on unpaved stretches.

Is the 100 Castles Route a race?

The 100 Castles Route is an itinerary designed for passionate bike travelers, to be experienced freely and without a stopwatch.
You can start with other participants and finish the journey whenever you wish, following your own pace and timing.
It’s not a race, but an experience of discovery, independence, and connection — through villages, mountains, and the sea.
Plan your stages, explore with curiosity, and contact us if you need any advice.

What is the length and elevation gain of the route?

The route is a loop of about 400 km with a total elevation gain of approximately 6,900 meters. It’s a challenging itinerary, but suitable for well-trained bike travelers, featuring long scenic climbs that wind through mountains, villages, and valleys.

Is a medical certificate required?

Yes, a valid competitive medical certificate for cycling is mandatory. It must be issued by a sports doctor or an authorized medical center and remain valid beyond June 30, 2026.

What is the minimum required equipment?

Each participant must carry the following for the entire duration of the route:

  • Certified helmet (must be worn at all times)

  • Reflective vest or straps

  • Working front and rear lights

  • Bell or whistle

  • Charged and functioning mobile phone

  • Repair kit for punctures or mechanical issues

All participants must be self-sufficient in managing their own bike.

Is the route closed to traffic?

No. The roads along the route remain open to vehicle traffic. Each cyclist must comply with the Road Code and exercise caution at all times.

How do you follow the route?

The 100 Castles Route track is available in GPX format and can be uploaded to a bike computer or GPS app on your smartphone.
It is essential to check your device’s proper functioning in advance and to carry an extra battery for the entire duration of the ride.
Once registration is complete, we will provide a list of recommended accommodations and dining options.

Are there any refreshment or assistance points along the route?

There are no organized refreshment or assistance points. However, the route passes through many villages and equipped areas where it is possible to refuel, find accommodation, or make small repairs at local facilities.
Once registration is complete, we will provide a list of recommended places to stay and eat.
Una volta completata l’iscrizione forniremo nominativi di strutture consigliate per dormire e mangiare.

Is it possible to stay overnight along the route?

Yes. The route passes through areas with a wide range of accommodations — B&Bs, agriturismo, and small hotels. It is recommended to plan your stages and book in advance, especially on weekends or during high season.

Can I participate with an e-bike?

Yes, e-bikes are allowed. It is the participant’s responsibility to manage battery range and plan any necessary recharges along the route.

What happens if I can’t complete the route?

There is no recovery or transport service for participants who withdraw. In case of difficulty, each cyclist must independently arrange transportation or assistance, using public or private means.
The day before the departure, together with the 100 castles package, will be provided an emergency number.

Is a refund provided in case of non-participation?

No. The registration fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. Registration is personal and non-transferable to other participants or future editions.

Can I contact the organization for advice or support?

Absolutely. Our team is available for technical advice, stage planning, and logistical information. You can contact us by email or through the form on the official website.

How to Join


Get on the saddle for the first edition of the 100 Castles Route

Join those who choose adventure over competition. Ride at your own pace among castles, villages, and forest-scented mountains, where every climb becomes a memory and every encounter a story.

100 Castles Route
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.