Via degli Acquedotti (Lucca - Pisa; English text)

This is a great walk along the aqueducts of Lucca and Pisa. Starting from Lucca train station, you will first walk to the 'tempietto' marking the start of the Nottolini aqueduct, dating from the 1850s. The first 4 kms of the walk follow the aqueduct that runs straight as an arrow towards the hills, where it will stop at a second 'tempietto'. From here, it runs underground up to Parole d'Oro, where you will find a unique landscape of water collection basins. Everything is now derelict, but this place really has a touch of magic.

You will continue up along the canals, weirs and culverts of the Rio San Quirico. A short, steep climb will then get you to the paved Via del Valle. Go to the right here, and descend into Vorno (approx. 8 km on the route).

From Vorno, take the paved road to the south (marked 124). After about 1.5 km, a forest path to the left will lead you out of the valley; the climb is strenuous, and you will have to watch your footing. After about 3 km, the path levels out and ends at a forest road. Follow this to the right for about 200 m, and then again take the 124 to the left for another steep and steady climb, finishing at the Campo di Croce at 612 m a.s.l. (approx. 4.8 km from Vorno).

From there, follow the path (117) to Asciano. This starts as an easy descent on a wide forest road; at the waysigns, take care to go up to Foce Penecchio instead of continuing the descent. From Foce Penecchio, a steep descent follows up to the point where you can turn left towards Asciano, at the start of the ancient water pipes (path 119). This is an even more challenging descent that levels out after about 10 minutes; you will then reach the Cisternone that forms the start of the Medici waterworks leading to Pisa.

From there, walk into Asciano and follow the Medici aqueduct towards Pisa; this is mostly a straight line following the cycling path. In Pisa, continue to follow the aqueduct, turning left after crossing the Fosso del Mulino. You will then reach the end of the aqueduct at the Porta di Santa Marta.

Starting point: Lucca train station
End point: Porta di Santa Marta, Pisa
Getting back: Pisa train station (approx. 2000 m). Both Vorno and Asciano have bus services, but these are not very regular.

Signposting: the route is quite well signposted with red-and-white markers, but the numbering and naming of the routes is not always consistent, so keep an eye on where you go.

Food and drink: Lucca and Pisa of course have plenty of opportunities. There is a very good restaurant in Vorno, A Bimbotto. Asciano has a bar where you can get refreshments. On the way, there are numerous water points, but not on the stretch over the mountain, so bring enough water from Vorno, especially on a hot day.