Lucca: Picnic Lunch at a Vineyard by Bike

Key Points

• Duration and Location: This 3.5-hour bike tour takes place just outside Lucca, in Tuscany, Italy.
• Self-Guided Route: The tour uses a phone app for navigation, allowing independence and flexibility along scenic trails.
• Bike Options: Choose between easy-to-use e-bikes (for those over 155 cm) and trekking bikes (for those over 150 cm), with all accessories provided.
• Scenic Stops: Pedal through olive groves, vineyards, and along the Serchio river, with a stop at a local winery.
• Picnic Experience: Enjoy an included picnic lunch among the vines, with options to explore the winery and buy extra wine.
• Highly Rated: With a 4.7/5 rating from 75 reviews, this tour is praised for its scenery, ease, and value.

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Discovering Lucca’s Countryside by Bike

The Lucca: Picnic Lunch at a Vineyard by Bike tour offers a relaxed exploration of the Tuscany countryside, just outside the historic Lucca walls. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours and is ideal for those seeking a leisurely outdoor activity with delicious food and wine at the end. It starts at the Tourist Center Lucca Bike rental, where the host provides a safety briefing and gets everyone fitted with a trekking bike or e-bike, depending on height and preference.

What makes this experience stand out is its use of a self-guided route via a free app. This setup offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, following directions that lead you away from busy streets onto scenic cycle paths along the Puccini cycle path and beside the Serchio river. The route features easy ups and downs, making it accessible for a wide range of fitness levels while showcasing the beauty of olive groves and vineyards.

From Lucca Walls to the Countryside Trails

The tour begins with a brief safety briefing at the shop before departing. From here, riders leave the Lucca walls behind, heading along designated cycle paths that avoid local traffic. The initial part of the ride takes about 45 minutes, offering riders a chance to enjoy views of the town and surrounding Tuscany landscape.

Next, the route follows the Serchio river, offering scenic views and a gentle ride through peaceful areas. This part of the journey also takes approximately 45 minutes and introduces riders to the lush greenery and tranquil waterways typical of this region. The journey is mostly flat, but the e-bike option is highly recommended for less experienced cyclists or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Reaching the Vineyard for a Tuscan Picnic

After about an hour and a half of cycling, the route arrives at a local vineyard. Here, the farmer and staff welcome visitors warmly. The highlight is the picnic box, which includes local foods and wines. Guests select a grassy spot to settle in and enjoy their meal among vineyards and olive trees.

While relaxing, visitors are free to explore the cellar and learn about the wine-making process. Those interested in further tastings can inquire about additional options at an extra cost. The setting provides a perfect backdrop for unwinding after the ride, with plenty of space to soak up the Tuscan atmosphere.

The Return Ride and Scenic Pathways

Following the picnic, the return journey begins with about 30 minutes of riding back toward Lucca. The route on the way back is predominantly downhill or flat, making it easier and quicker than the outbound trip. Riders pass through quiet village roads and scenic bike trails alongside the Serchio river, providing a peaceful finish to the day.

The tour concludes back at the Lucca Bike rental shop before 19:00, allowing plenty of time to explore the town or continue other activities. The overall distance covered is approximately 15 km, with an additional 5 km on the return, making it a manageable ride for most.

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Logistics and Practical Tips

The meeting point is conveniently located just outside the Lucca train station, on the left side with coordinates 43.83785629272461, 10.505709648132324. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for cycling and outdoor weather.

E-bike availability is limited to those over 155 cm and 14 years old, while trekking bikes are suitable for those over 150 cm. All bikes come equipped with a phone holder, repair kit, and side bag to ensure safety and convenience. It’s recommended to fully charge your phone before starting the tour to avoid navigation issues.

The tour is conducted in English and Italian, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, allowing travelers to reserve without immediate payment.

Highlights from Past Participants

Reviews consistently praise this tour for its stunning scenery, friendly staff, and ease of navigation via the app. Many highlight the picnic as a favorite, describing it as delicious and served in a beautiful vineyard setting. The quality of the bikes, especially the e-bikes, receives frequent commendation, with some noting that they make hills much easier.

Participants also appreciate the informative vineyard visit, where they can learn about wine production. The self-guided approach is considered very effective, with many mentioning that they felt confident following the route without getting lost, thanks to the straightforward app navigation.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience appeals to those who enjoy outdoor activities combined with culinary delights. It suits beginners and casual cyclists due to its easy pace and mostly flat terrain. The self-guided route offers flexibility, making it perfect for independent explorers or small groups who prefer to set their own rhythm.

Wine lovers will enjoy the opportunity to visit a local vineyard and indulge in local food and wine. The scenic beauty and peaceful paths make it suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging way to experience Tuscany outside of the busy town center.

The Sum Up: A Relaxed, Scenic Way to Experience Lucca’s Countryside

The Lucca: Picnic Lunch at a Vineyard by Bike tour provides a beautiful blend of cycling, nature, and gourmet experiences in Tuscany. With its self-guided app route, it offers a sense of independence while ensuring safety and scenic enjoyment. The included picnic among vineyards and olive groves delivers a memorable meal in a stunning setting.

This tour is especially suited for those who want an easy, flexible outdoor activity with the bonus of tasting local wines and foods. While the route is mostly flat, less experienced cyclists are encouraged to opt for the e-bike to make the ride more comfortable. The consistent praise from past participants underscores its good value, attractive scenery, and friendly hospitality.

For anyone wanting a laid-back but picturesque day in Tuscan countryside, this bike and picnic experience offers a rewarding way to soak up the beauty of the region in just a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed as easy to moderate and features mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for beginners and families with children over 150 cm for trekking bikes or 155 cm for e-bikes.

What should I bring for the bike ride?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for cycling outdoors. Make sure your phone is fully charged for using the app navigation and enjoy the scenic trip.

Can I upgrade to an e-bike?
Yes, e-bikes are available for those over 155 cm and 14 years old. The e-bike option is recommended for easier handling, especially if you’re less experienced or prefer less physical effort.

What is included in the picnic lunch?
The picnic box contains local foods and wines, allowing you to relax and enjoy your meal amidst the vineyards. Additional tastings can be arranged at the winery for an extra fee.

How long is the total bike ride?
The total distance is approximately 15 km, with about 1.5 hours of cycling, plus 30 minutes for the return trip, making it manageable for most participants.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

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