Monte Secchieta from Vallombrosa

After the abbey climb to 18％, a very rideable climb

Beautiful climb that starts as early as Regello. It's nice and cool in the forest, and at the top you have a nice view of the surroundings. The descent is not too fast, as the roads are narrow, the turns tight and visibility is sometimes not top-notch under the dark trees.

I did this one coming from Reggello. Actually, the road before Reggello starts as climbing, so the total climb is about's 25km a 5％ average. Up to Vallombrosa fairly straightforward, but once arrived at the Monastery of Vallombrosa, the road turns right and the tarmac turns into a brand-new sleek carpet and the road immediately steepens by some'n 10％. It does flatten out quickly after that after which it is enjoyable to enjoy the scenery. Throughout the climb you meander through a forest with streams, waterfalls and, thanks to the tall trees, quite a bit of shade, which was very welcome when I rode there that day (well over 30 degrees).

Once at the top, there is a small tavern reasonably equipped for cyclists and great views (if you conveniently ignore the huge transmission masts).

Nice climb through the forests. Actually the 2nd part of a much longer climb that already starts in the valley at Leccio adding another 16km of climbing. From here, however, the more challenging part begins. The first kilometre after Vallombrosa is a tough one, especially considering you've normally already done 16km of 4％ climbing. Then it flattens out again and you climb further through the forest where it is also nice and cool compared to the Arno valley. At the top there is a tavern that is sometimes open and where you can have a fairly cheap drink and/or taste regional products.