Stage 11
Viareggio > Castelnovo ne' Monti
VIAREGGIO
Stage 11 promises to be a tough day in the saddle, with challenging climbs and undulating terrain that will test even the most versatile riders. But before the flag drops, there’s time to enjoy the sweet life in Viareggio. A stroll along the city’s elegant seafront reveals historic Liberty-style buildings and seaside resorts that once hosted legendary parties. For something truly unique, visit the Cittadella del Carnevale, Italy’s largest center dedicated to carnival traditions—where the spectacular floats that have defined Viareggio’s 150-year-old parade are built and brought to life. Other highlights include the Museo della Marineria, celebrating the city’s maritime heritage, and the GAMC (the Municipal Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art) home to over 3,000 works, including pieces by Monet, Gauguin, Picasso, Miró, Chagall, and Max Ernst. From there, head to the Darsena to marvel at the luxury yachts; no surprise here - Viareggio is a global benchmark for high-end shipbuilding.
ENTERING GARFAGNANA
The stage truly kicks off in the Garfagnana area, a haven of natural and artistic treasures. First among them is the medieval Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge) at Borgo a Mozzano, admired for both its unique structure and the legends that surround it. Then comes Barga, beloved by poet Giovanni Pascoli, where riders pass the grassy terrace of the Arringo, a stunning overlook of the Apuan Alps, right beside the cathedral. Further along is Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, the valley’s main town, watched over by the 11th-century Rocca Ariostesca, named after Ludovico Ariosto, who lived there from 1522 to 1525. The area’s strategic value is reaffirmed by the nearby Fortezza di Mont’Alfonso, perched above the town and easily reached by foot along the Ariosto Trail. No visit to the Serchio Valley would be complete without tasting Farro della Garfagnana IGP, a local delicacy and a staple of the region’s food heritage.
IN THE SHADOW OF THE PIETRA DI BISMANTOVA
The climb to San Pellegrino in Alpe leads to the highest village in the Apennines, a historic crossroads for pilgrims and travelers once welcomed into the local hospice, now home to a fascinating ethnographic museum. Soon after, the race crosses into Emilia-Romagna, passing through Frassinoro and Piandelagotti, villages known for their endless hiking trails and outdoor activities. Montefiorino, with its imposing medieval fortress, captivates visitors and offers the heady aroma of Valli Dolo e Dragone truffles.
Finally, the unmistakable silhouette of the Pietra di Bismantova, rising from the last ridges of the Reggio Apennines, guides the way to the finish in Castelnovo ne’ Monti. Here, a visit to one of the five local dairies producing mountain Parmigiano Reggiano is a must. This is one of the finest cheeses in the world, and in Castelnovo, no one leaves empty-handed.
