The vintage car rally through the lakes of Garfagnana
The Coppa dei Laghi - Wheels in History is a dynamic rally dedicated to vintage cars that unfolds along the scenic roads of Garfagnana, in the heart of the Province of Lucca. The route, approximately 150 kilometres long, traverses some of the most iconic spots in this corner of Tuscany, offering participants unique views of mountains, historic villages, and pristine nature. The passage along the lakes of Isola Santa, Vagli, and Gramolazzo is the highlight of the event: true landscape gems nestled between the Apuan Alps and the Apennines.
The event is part of the national ACI Storico circuit and is organized by the Automobile Club Lucca in collaboration with New Lucca Corse ASD. This is not merely a parade of classic cars: the rally includes skill and precision trials that challenge crews and expert enthusiasts, balancing a sporting spirit with conviviality and the promotion of local tourism.
The caravan sets off from the Rocca Ariostesca in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, the historical and architectural symbol of the valley's main town, and concludes in Castiglione di Garfagnana, a village awarded the 'Orange Flag' for tourism and environmental excellence. Along the way, the vintage cars parade through the towns of Monteperpoli, Gallicano, Vergemoli, Careggine, Piazza al Serchio, Sillano, and other Garfagnana villages, amidst a succession of breathtaking panoramas.
The Municipality of Vagli Sotto, with its famous artificial lake, is one of the most scenic stages of the route. To accommodate the passage of the vehicles, the municipal administration implements specific traffic ordinances during the event days. The village, also known for the evocative submerged town of Fabbriche di Careggine, provides a backdrop of rare beauty, between emerald waters and Apuan peaks.
The Coppa dei Laghi is closely linked to the celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Automobile Club Lucca, a milestone that has brought further prestige to the event. The rally represents a true celebration of historic motoring culture, capable of attracting crews and enthusiasts from all over Tuscany and beyond, while simultaneously showcasing the scenic beauty and villages of the Garfagnana and the Province of Lucca.
The 2nd edition of the Coppa dei Laghi - Wheels in History took place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Garfagnana, meeting with great success. The event, part of the celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Automobile Club Lucca, combined a passion for historic motoring with the tourism promotion of the territory. The crews travelled approximately 150 kilometres through villages, mountains, and the valley's evocative lakes, concluding the day in a festive atmosphere with dinner and an awards ceremony.
Vagli Sotto can be reached by car via the SS12 'dell'Abetone e del Brennero' road to Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, then following signs for Vagli. The nearest train station is Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, on the Lucca-Aulla line.
Participation is reserved for crews registered through the organizing secretariat ([email protected]). Registration closes in the days leading up to the event.
For the public, the best vantage points to admire the passing cars are the shores of Lake Vagli and the villages along the route. We recommend comfortable clothing and paying attention to local traffic ordinances.
No photos yet. Share yours!
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Share your experience with the community.
Lago di Vagli e strade della Garfagnana