Trittico del Serra

The Trittico del Serra in Calci

The Trittico del Serra is one of the most beloved events for climbing enthusiasts in the province of Pisa. It is a non-competitive cycling rally, a true test for climbers that involves tackling all three bike-accessible slopes of Monte Serra—the highest peak of the Monti Pisani—in a single day. The event starts in the town of Calci, in the heart of the province of Pisa, Tuscany, and gathers hundreds of cyclists each year ready to face the area's toughest gradients.

The three slopes of Monte Serra

The charm of the Trittico lies in the challenge of its three ascents, each with a distinct character:

• Calci slope — approximately 12 km with an average gradient of around 7%; the most nervous and irregular, featuring demanding stretches within the town at the start.
• Sant'Andrea di Compito slope — approximately 10 km with an average gradient near 8%; considered the toughest, on a narrow road immersed in the woods.
• Buti slope — approximately 11 km with an average gradient around 7%; the most regular and consistent, offering scenic views that reward the effort.

In total, the full route spans approximately 57 kilometers with over 2,400 meters of elevation gain. Those who prefer not to tackle the entire trilogy can choose to climb just once (approx. 13 km) or twice (approx. 34 km): the event is designed to welcome cyclists of all levels, from the trained amateur to those simply wanting to enjoy the mountains.

Start and logistics

The meeting point is Piazza Garibaldi, in the center of Calci, with morning registration typically open between 7:30 and 8:15 AM. The start is free-form (à la française), and participants have until the early afternoon to complete the loop. Those who finish all three climbs receive the climber's diploma, a symbolic recognition celebrating their achievement on the Monti Pisani.

A local tradition

The Trittico del Serra is more than just a sporting challenge; it is an opportunity to discover a picturesque corner of the province of Pisa. Calci is famous for its monumental Certosa, an ancient monastic complex that now houses the Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa. By pedaling between Calci, Sant'Andrea di Compito, and Buti, cyclists traverse villages, olive groves, and forests that make the Monti Pisani one of the most appreciated destinations for cycling tourism in Tuscany.

Organized by enthusiasts in the spirit of amateur cycling, the event has grown over time to become a mid-June classic, even attracting big names in cycling as guests of honor.