GTL 4 Lazio From Monte S.Biagio to Minturno

A coastal stop, made up of Homeric suggestions, Greek and Roman history and beautiful villages framed by the overbearing blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Spectacular landscapes overlooking the sea, which mark the exit from the papal territories and the entry into what was the Kingdom of the Bourbons: the cultural influence of Naples and the South is felt, after all this is the southernmost stage of the entire GTL, which arrives right at the last municipality before the border of Campania, Minturno. From Monte San Biagio we pass the former customs between the two states, and descend into the plain of Fondi, skirting the lake of the same name. From here to Sperlonga, a charming seaside resort made up of white houses, the step is short. After passing the dirt roads of Lake Fondi, an easy seafront cycle path welcomes us first in the lower part of the village, then in a short climb to the ancient village, in whose alleys it is really worth making a stop. After Sperlonga, near which there are the remains of the villa of Emperor Tiberius, built right next to the sea cave that bears his name, the most spectacular stretch of road awaits us: the Ausoni mountains have been replaced by the Aurunci, and to avoid the Via Flacca, panoramic but full of dangerous tunnels overlooking the sea, we face the climb in the direction of Itri. The climb is challenging and monumental, but the view of the Pontine Islands and the Campanian Archipelago repays all the effort. Before entering Itri, whose castle and olives are still worth a visit, the track makes its way into the folds of the Aurunci until it reaches Gaeta, a fascinating fortified city with a pirate appearance, famous for the Sanctuary of the Split Mountain and for the tiella, the typical rustic cake of the area; the last kilometers towards Minturno run along the port with its murals, crossing Formia and Scauri to the destination.