Day 7 of possibly 17 cycling days from Piacenza to Rome along the Via Francigena.

Ruth and Masoud have joined us for the next cycling days. We had a prompt breakfast and then we all helped to assemble their two e-bikes. Much fettling was required to adjust pedals, mudguards etc. Then some packing and repacking of their panniers. Finally finding a spot to leave their car.

And off we went. 12km along a somewhat tawdry seafront. We can’t actually see any beach as the entire 22km frontage is sold off as concessions and each plot has a car park, “club house” or restaurant, changing huts, and finally the beach which is highly organised with umbrellas and recliners in neat rows.

We headed inland to Pietrasanta for an early lunch in the main square. We collected our VF passport stamps. We then set off into the countryside. The weather was pleasantly warm with little wind.

After a few km we came across an unexpectedly short, sharp and very steep hill. Anna, Alistair and Ruth (e-bike) made it to the top with significant effort, but Masoud was unable to reach the top despite full power on his e-bike.

This left us wondering whether Masoud would be able to manage the hills on this trip. Masoud eventually walked up with his bike.

We then faced the two main climbs. Ruth and Masoud shot off up the hill overtaking us with no problems. A second steeper hill was managed with more effort but still achieved. It looks like we will be able to progress after all.

A swift rewarding downhill followed.

We see many foot pilgrims along the way. Some large groups.

Arriving in Lucca, we enjoyed aperitivi in one of many squares containing remarkable churches.

B&B in a quirky non-attended property (conducted through WhatsApp messages) and a pizza outside in another square.