A slightly more challenging route is the one that goes from Collelungo to Pinastrellaia, which is 19 kilometers long and has an elevation gain of 224 meters.
This hike takes about six hours, during which you may encounter herds of cows and horses—typical of the land of the “butteri”—as well as lush vegetation with trees sculpted by the wind and the sea, giving the landscape a wild appearance.
Route Features
Route length: 19 km
Time required: 6 hours
Level: challenging
The route begins at the Alberese Visitor Center and follows the Strada degli Ulivi, an avenue lined with centuries-old olive trees that climbs gently through the Mediterranean scrub to the gate at Vergheria—the gateway to the wild heart of the Maremma Park.
From here on, nature takes over. Among the rocky terrain of the olive groves, it’s not uncommon to come across fallow deer, roe deer, and wild boars, while further on, herds of cows and Maremma horses graze freely, reminding you that you’re in the land of the “butteri.” The trees, sculpted by the wind and salt spray, give the landscape an ancient and wild appearance, almost timeless.
You’ll arrive at the 16th-century tower of Collelungo, where it’s worth leaving your bike and continuing on foot: the view of the coast and the Serrata dei Cavalleggeri pine forest more than makes up for the effort. Then you set off again, crossing the Pinastrellaia sandbar —a route that winds past centuries-old olive trees and through the Pineta Granducale—until you emerge at Marina di Alberese, where the sea welcomes you as the final reward.
Our front desk is here to help you with the GPX track, advise you on the best time to tackle the route, book your park admission (ticket required, €5 per person), and organize every detail of your bike trip.
