La Vinaria

La Vinaria: the vintage cycling event in the heart of the Lucca Plain

La Vinaria is one of Tuscany's most beloved vintage cycling events. Held at the end of August, it turns Marlia, a village in the municipality of Capannori (Province of Lucca), into a gathering point for hundreds of classic bicycle enthusiasts. This is not a race, but a non-competitive cycling tour designed for those who love combining a passion for vintage cycling with the pleasure of fine wine, good food, and the Tuscan landscape.

The name pays homage to "La Via Vinaria," the area's ancient winemaking tradition of open cellars and tastings. True to this spirit, participants encounter themed refreshment stops, breaks among the vines, and tastings of wine and local products from the Plain, on a journey that spans Capannori, Lucca, and Porcari.

Bicycles and the vintage spirit

To participate in the historic ride, you need a vintage road bike built before 1987, featuring a steel frame, down-tube shifters, external brake cables, and toe clips with straps. Many cyclists complete the look with period clothing, wool jerseys, and retro accessories, making the event a feast for the eyes as well as the legs. The start and finish are located at the historic Market of Marlia, the event's logistical hub.

Routes through vineyards, villas, and hills

La Vinaria offers two routes of varying difficulty, allowing everyone to find their perfect fit:

• Il Divino, approx. 43 km, designed for those who want to enjoy the scenery and excellent refreshment stops at a relaxed pace.
• L'Intrepido, approx. 78 km, dedicated to more adventurous cyclists, featuring climbs and panoramic views of the foothills of the Apennines.

The routes pass by iconic local landmarks such as the Walls of Lucca, the historic villas of the Plain, and the famous Witch's Oak (Quercia delle Streghe), the monumental tree linked to the legend of Pinocchio.

A festival that lasts all weekend

The Sunday ride is surrounded by a packed program of activities: a vintage spare parts and bicycle market, a farmers' market, e-bike tours to discover hydroelectric power plants, gatherings of vintage cars and Vespas, and convivial dinners. Organized by G.S. Cicli Carube with the patronage of the municipalities of Capannori, Lucca, and Porcari, as well as the Opera delle Mura, La Vinaria is also a stage of the Coppa Toscana Vintage Ciclostoriche, the circuit that brings together the region's main vintage cycling events.