The best cycling routes around Scarlino
4.3
(212)
2,657
riders
56
rides
Touring cycling around Scarlino offers diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to hilly inland terrains. The region is characterized by the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, featuring dense Mediterranean scrubland and pine forests. Coastal trails provide views of the Gulf of Follonica, while inland routes extend into hills and olive groves. The varied topography provides options for different touring cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Scarlino
- The most popular touring cycling route is Tyrrhenian Cycle Route, a 7.3 miles (11.7 km) trail that takes about 56 minutes to complete. This route offers coastal views and is part of a larger cycling network.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Panorama over Scarlino — Ring tour, a difficult 16.4 miles (26.3 km) path. This route features hilly terrain with panoramic views over the surrounding landscape.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Candeliere Tower – Bosco di Grasceta loop from Scarlino, a 32.4 miles (52.1 km) trail leading through woodlands and past historical sites, often completed in about 3 hours 28 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Scarlino is defined by coastal paths, Mediterranean scrubland, and hilly inland areas. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy coastal rides to more challenging climbs.
- The routes in Scarlino are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 130 reviews. More than 1800 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Scarlino's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.4
(7)
30
riders
11.7km
00:57
210m
210m
Embark on the Tyrrhenian Cycle Route, a moderate touring bicycle adventure that takes you through the stunning Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve. You'll cycle for 7.3 miles (11.7 km), gaining 683 feet (208 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 56 minutes. The route winds through lush Mediterranean scrub and fragrant pine forests, offering glimpses of the beautiful Tuscan coastline. A true highlight is Cala Violina, a secluded bay known for its unique "singing sands" and crystal-clear waters. Expect varied terrain, including sections of gravel, track, and paved paths, as you make your way along this scenic coastal path.
When planning your trip, be aware that access to Cala Violina is intentionally limited, primarily encouraging arrival by foot or bicycle to help preserve its natural state. Ensure your touring bicycle is suitable for the varied terrain you will encounter. You can find convenient picnic tables and shaded rest areas nestled within the pine forest behind the beach, perfect for a relaxing break during your ride.
This route offers a rewarding experience for cyclists with good fitness, immersing you in the natural beauty of the Area Naturale Protetta di Interesse Locale Costiere di Scarlino. The journey between Puntone and Cala Violina provides continuous coastal vistas, making it a memorable part of your Tuscan exploration. The unique
1.0
(1)
1
riders
26.3km
02:12
370m
370m
Embark on the Panorama over Scarlino — Ring tour for a truly demanding touring bicycle experience through the scenic Scarlino region. This difficult 16.4-mile (26.3 km) route is designed to test your endurance, featuring a significant 1217 feet (371 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this challenging ride in about 2 hours and 11 minutes, navigating a mix of paved and potentially unpaved sections. As its name suggests, the trail promises expansive panoramic views across the diverse Tuscan landscape, with rolling hills and coastal vistas.
This hard bike ride demands good fitness, so prepare accordingly for the strenuous climbs and varied terrain. While specific details on surface composition are not fully outlined, similar routes in this area often include unpaved segments where you might need to push your bike. Plan your visit during favorable weather conditions to fully appreciate the rewarding vistas that come with significant elevation gains.
The Panorama over Scarlino — Ring tour stands out for its demanding nature, offering a substantial challenge for touring cyclists seeking a strenuous experience. It provides an excellent opportunity to test your limits while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Scarlino area. The region is renowned for its diverse scenery, including picturesque locations like Cala Violina in the nearby Scarlino Coastal Natural Area, adding to the allure of this challenging route.
Sign up for free
4.5
(23)
333
riders
17.4km
01:25
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(48)
264
riders
21.6km
01:25
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(8)
108
riders
52.2km
03:27
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Archaeological Museum is housed in the ancient Palazzo del Podestà (1225), which overlooks the Piazza del Duomo of Massa Marittima. The collection is organized into sections, ordered chronologically from the lower paleolithic to the etruscan age; the main piece of the prehistoric collection is the eneolithic statue-stele of Vado all’Arancio, the only find of its type in Maremma; the etruscan finds come mainly from excavations carried out at the village of Lago dell’Accesa, they are mainly kitchenware, loom weights, fishing weights and bricks; also present are the funerary trousseaux found in the necropolises, especially pottery (figulina clay and bucchero), bronze fibulae, iron pot stands, iron and bronze weapons. On the ground floor, an educational section is set up with a life-size reconstruction of typical caves: a paleolithic and an eneolithic one. Guided tours and educational activities, organization of cultural events and film screenings are available.
1
0
The massive Torre del Candeliere (or clock tower) is 24m high and was built to assert its authority in 1228, a few years after Massa Marittima gained independence as a Free Commune. The building's peculiar name derives from the custom of always keeping a fire lit on its summit, making it resemble a huge candle. In 1413, a bell was placed for the first time, later replaced in 1760 by the current one, weighing about 140kg. The first clock was instead placed on the facade in 1443. The Torre del Candeliere is the quintessential panoramic viewpoint of the town. It is therefore visitable, and through its Sienese Arch, it is possible to access the Fortress, the only stretch of walls still walkable today. The Arch and the Fortress were built after the Tower: with the conquest of Massa by Siena in 1335, the Tower was partially demolished, and then rebuilt about a third lower than the original.
1
0
Cala Violina, located in the heart of the Maremma grossetana between Scarlino and Punta Ala, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany, known for its very fine white sand, crystal-clear water, and Mediterranean scrub. The bay offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear sea, comparable to that of the Island of Elba.
0
0
Cala Violina takes its name from a particularity that makes it unique: tiny grains of quartz that play a melody with every step. Sounding beaches are an ancient phenomenon, already narrated by Marco Polo. There are barely a hundred similar places in the world, and Cala Violina is one of them.
0
0
Cala Violina takes its name from a particular feature that makes it unique: tiny quartz grains that play a melody with every step. Singing beaches are an ancient phenomenon, already narrated by Marco Polo. There are barely a hundred similar places in the world, and Cala Violina is one of them.
0
0
A walk or MTB hike along the Tuscan coast, I recommend taking plenty of water, especially during the hotter periods.
1
0
Cala Martina is a small cove in the Maremma Grossetana area of the municipality of Scarlino, located in the heart of the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve. The cove, not very large, narrower than the nearby Cala Violina, is enclosed between two promontories and is characterized by rocks and crystal-clear water. The promontory separating Cala Martina from Cala Violina is called Punta Francese. Cala Martina is also famous for being the place where Giuseppe Garibaldi, pursued by the papal guards, boarded a fishing boat from La Spezia to reach Porto Venere on September 2, 1849. The event is commemorated with a monument on the path leading to the beach, created in 1949 by the sculptor Tolomeo Faccendi, and with a stone placed in the sea.
0
0
Cala Martina is a small cove in the Maremma Grossetana area of the municipality of Scarlino, located in the heart of the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve. The cove, not very large, narrower than the nearby Cala Violina, is enclosed between two promontories and is characterized by rocks and crystal-clear water. The promontory separating Cala Martina from Cala Violina is called Punta Francese. Cala Martina is also famous for being the place where Giuseppe Garibaldi, pursued by the papal guards, boarded a fishing boat from La Spezia to reach Porto Venere on September 2, 1849. The event is commemorated with a monument on the path leading to the beach, created in 1949 by the sculptor Tolomeo Faccendi, and with a stone placed in the sea.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Scarlino?
Scarlino offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 45 options available. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy coastal rides to more challenging inland climbs.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Scarlino?
The best time for touring cycling in Scarlino is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the Mediterranean scrubland and pine forests of the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve are particularly beautiful. Summer can be hot, especially for longer rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Scarlino?
Touring cycling in Scarlino offers diverse terrain. You'll find coastal paths with breathtaking sea views, often with slight inclines and descents under pine trees. Inland, routes extend into hills adorned by Monte d'Alma, featuring more challenging climbs and descents, as well as routes through olive groves and woodlands. The Panorama over Scarlino — Ring tour is a good example of a route with hilly terrain and panoramic views.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Scarlino?
Yes, Scarlino has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An example is the Levante Pinewood – Carbonifera Hydropower Station loop from Puntone di Scarlino, which offers a gentle experience through scenic areas. There are 10 easy routes in total.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Scarlino offers 26 difficult routes. The Candeliere Tower – Bosco di Grasceta loop from Scarlino is a notable example, leading through woodlands and past historical sites with significant elevation changes over 32 miles.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Scarlino?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Scarlino are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Panorama over Scarlino — Ring tour is a popular circular option offering panoramic views, and the Bridge over the Alma River – PuntAla Camp & Resort loop is another great choice.
What scenic views can I expect on touring cycling routes in Scarlino?
Scarlino's touring cycling routes offer diverse scenic views. Along the coast, you'll enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Follonica and access to pristine beaches like Cala Violina and Cala Civette. Inland, routes provide panoramic views over rolling hills, olive groves, and dense Mediterranean scrubland, particularly from elevated points like those found on the Panorama over Scarlino — Ring tour.
Are there any historical sites or natural attractions to see along the routes?
Yes, Scarlino's routes often pass by or near significant historical and natural attractions. Within the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, you can find the Poggio Tondo Necropolis, an Etruscan archaeological site. The medieval Rocca Pisana (Scarlino Castle) offers incredible panoramic views. You might also encounter highlights like the Canyon Trail or the Archaeological Park of Lake Accesa.
Is parking available near the touring cycling routes in Scarlino?
Parking is generally available in Scarlino town and at various trailheads, especially near popular access points to the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve or coastal areas like Puntone di Scarlino. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot tour pages.
Can I use public transport to access touring cycling routes in Scarlino?
While public transport options exist in the Maremma region, carrying bikes on buses or trains can be limited. It's advisable to check local public transport policies regarding bike carriage in advance. Many touring cyclists prefer to drive to a starting point or utilize bike rental services in the area.
Are there dog-friendly touring cycling routes in Scarlino?
Many of the natural trails within the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control, especially around wildlife or other trail users. Always ensure your dog is accustomed to longer rides and that you carry enough water for both of you. Specific regulations may apply in certain protected areas, so it's good to check local signage.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Scarlino?
Yes, Scarlino offers family-friendly touring cycling routes, particularly those with easier gradients and well-maintained surfaces. The coastal paths and sections through pine forests, such as parts of the Tyrrhenian Cycle Route, are often suitable for families with children, offering pleasant rides with beautiful scenery.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Scarlino?
The touring cycling routes in Scarlino are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 130 reviews. More than 1800 touring cyclists have explored the area using komoot, often praising the diverse landscapes, from stunning coastal views to the tranquility of the Mediterranean scrubland and challenging inland climbs.
Most popular attractions around Scarlino
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
