Cutigliano, a charming medieval village with very ancient roots, welcomes visitors with its historical allure. At the center of its past political life stands the Palazzo dei Capitani della Montagna, adorned on its façade with heraldic coats of arms left by the Captains as a memento of their service.
The route to Lake Scaffaiolo can be approached in two ways: by taking the cable car connecting Cutigliano to Doganaccia, saving energy (and battery for those using e-bikes) while avoiding a positive elevation gain of 800 meters; or by pedalling up a 10 km climb through fresh, changing vegetation, passing through forests of acacia, chestnut, fir, and beech trees.
Once at Doganaccia, you can choose to continue along a 2.5 km dirt road leading to Croce Arcana or take trail no. 6, which is easier to ride and offers a stunning view of the ski area.
At Croce Arcana, it is a must to stop for a photo at the Memorial dedicated to the victims of the Second World War. From here, take the crest path trail no. 00, which leads to Lake Scaffaiolo, a lake also mentioned by Giovanni Boccaccio. This territory, once inhabited by poets and brigands, was often traversed by salt smugglers who used the highlands for their illicit trade.
As the trail begins climbing toward Monte Spigolino, the most technical part of the route begins, featuring a stepped section that requires careful attention. After passing Passo della Calanca, only 800 meters remain to the destination, with one last climb gaining the final 50 meters of elevation.
Once you’ve admired the captivating scenery of Lake Scaffaiolo, return along the same path back to Passo della Calanca. From here, you can descend toward Doganaccia along trail no. 66, taking care on the steeper sections and watching out for pedestrians.
Returning to Doganaccia, just as on the way up, you can choose whether to descend via the cable car or ride your bike along the dirt road.
Itinerary by Leonardo Corsini
