Tipi Percorsi
Irpinia is an area full of contradictions, but if you love quality wine and pedalling in total tranquillity on an ebike, perhaps a rented one, on traffic-free roads to discover small extraordinary villages with an agricultural vocation, you cannot help but love it.
We are in the province of Avellino, and it will take just a few pedal cycles to grasp the first contradiction. The metropolitan hustle and bustle of nearby Naples (the airport and station are less than 50 km from Avellino, very convenient and quick to reach) and Salerno is just around the corner, yet you are immediately struck by the peace and serenity that pervades these places.
The second great contradiction, on the other hand, you will begin to smell it - but it would be more correct to say 'taste it' - on arriving in Lapio, starting with tasting the Fiano di Avellino, one of the incredible wines produced in this territory which, more unique than rare, can boast no less than 3 Denominazioni di Origine Controllata Garantita (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin).
Although the low mileage and the not-impossible altimetry could allow this Grand Tour to be completed in a single day (there are continuous ups and downs and a few challenging climbs), we recommend that you consider splitting the trip into two stages, so that you can enjoy the winery visits, a stop at an agritourism and a few chats with the inhabitants of the villages you pass through without the anxiety of time running out.
At the end of the tour - the third contradiction - it will be natural for you, as it is for those who live and for anyone who passes through these parts, to ask yourself: how is it that such an exceptional territory is still so little known in terms of tourism?
This route is a loop tour that starts and finishes at the e-bike rental point in Chiusano San Domenico.
However, if you prefer to start from the e-bike hire point located at the Avellino Cycle Station (Contrada San Lorenzo 18, Atripalda), add the AB/BA route (16.5 km) to this track to reach Chiusano San Domenico in comfort
The Grand Tour dei Vini Irpini is an itinerary that does not present any particular difficulties and can therefore be tackled with all types of e-bike available for hire: city, trekking and full suspension e-MTB.
This route lends itself well to being lengthened or shortened as required. So, feel free to contact us to let us know your time and/or fitness requirements: we will be happy to customise this track to perfectly suit your needs.
And now... let's go!
After refilling your water bottles with spring water from the Fontana Vecchia (a few hundred metres from the Chiusano San Domenico ebike rental point), ride back for a very short distance and, at the roundabout, follow the road to the right in the direction of Lapio. From now on, as far as Lapio, the road will always be downhill, but you will not get bored. Magnificent panoramas will keep you company and there will be no lack of views to photograph. On your right you will have the majesty of Monte Tuoro to keep you company, with the villages of Luogosano, Gesualdo and Fontanarosa in the distance. To your left, on the other hand, you can admire the Partenio Park, with Montevergine and other inhabited places. You will soon find yourself immersed in olive groves and long stretches of vineyards.
When you arrive in Lapio, take a tour of the village. In this area, thanks to the peculiarities of the soil and the specific environmental conditions, some of the best Fiano di Avellino wines of the entire province are produced. If you feel like tasting some of them, you will be spoilt for choice. Along your way you will encounter many wineries of this prized Fiano DOCG wine.
Follow the GPS track and continue your descent. The houses give way to vegetation and the road becomes winding in places, so be careful. After a couple of good kilometres, immediately after a bend, an imposing iron bridge towers above the road. Stop your ebike: you have arrived at Ponte Principe di Lapio. This bridge, built to allow trains to cross the River Calore, is a jewel of modern architecture. Learn more about its history in the fact sheet and don't forget to take a few photos before setting off again.
Once the wheels of your rented ebike have crossed the bridge under which the Calore River flows (not a bad view here, is it?), a wild ascent of about 2 km will begin. Some magnificent vineyards serve as a prelude to the entrance to the village of Taurasi, famous for the DOCG wine of the same name. An elegant wine that takes time to produce (minimum 2 years of barrel ageing, according to the production discipline) and time to appreciate and enjoy. Even in Taurasi, there is no shortage of wine cellars to visit and opportunities for tasting.
After having explored the production sites of Fiano di Avellino (Lapio) and Taurasi, all that remains is to reach Tufo, the production village of Greco di Tufo on your ebike.
From Taurasi to Calore (hamlet of Mirabella Eclano) the effort for you and your e-bike will be decidedly limited. The road continues almost always downhill and the pedal strokes required by your ebike will be few and far between. When you arrive in Calore, take a few minutes to walk around the small lake and to look at the bridge on which the road you have just travelled rests.
From here to the junction for Ventinticano, pay attention! You will be cycling for about 1.5 km on the Via Appia, an often busy road, also used by heavy vehicles. Although the road is uphill, in a few minutes, after turning right at the fork for Venticano, you will be back on a low-traffic road.
After passing the village of Venticano, you will be faced with the most challenging climb. 6 km of real climbing awaits you, with some stretches that exceed 10% gradient, so be sure to arrive here with your ebike's battery still charged. This road, after passing through the village of Pietradefusi, will lead you into the historic centre of Montefusco.
The town, located at the top of a hill, was an important political centre until 1816, when the role of provincial capital was taken from it by the city of Avellino. As well as enjoying breathtaking views, excellent Fiano di Avellino and splendid Greco di Tufo wines are produced here, thanks to its proximity to Tufo. The historic prison (for information on opening hours, ask at the Proloco) and the Monastery of Sant'Egidio (on the slopes of the town), where Padre Pio stayed during his novitiate, are of great importance.
Leaving the old town centre, you will come across a beautiful fountain where you can take a break after the strenuous climb and where you can refill your water bottles, before taking to the road again and leading your e-bike downhill towards Tufo.
When you arrive in Tufo you will have covered 40 km by now since you picked up your rented ebike in Chiusano San Domenico. When you stop at the beautiful fountain in the centre of the village square, you cannot help but agree with us: we are not exaggerating at all if we say that for at least 80% of the way here you have cycled through vineyards!
This is where the famous Greco di Tufo is produced, a DOCG white wine that has an ancient history and had the distinction of being the first wine that was able to bring Irpinian oenology into the national and international limelight. Many small and large farms produce wines of the highest quality. Ask for advice in the village or set out on your own to discover the cellars where you can taste some: you will be pleasantly surprised.
After Tufo, the loop begins to bend towards Chiusano San Domenico, where the Grand Tour of Irpinia wines by ebike will end. Not before, however, having passed through Pratola Serra and tackled the last long climb of the day. Conserve some battery power because you still have 10 km left almost entirely uphill! Just outside the town of Pratola Serra, TAKE GREAT CARE: THERE IS A VERY DANGEROUS CROSS-ROAD TO BE CROSSED!
You will pass through the small villages of San Michele di Pratola and San Fele, before arriving at the entrance to Montefalcione and, without crossing the village, finally joining the provincial road that will lead you to Chiusano. Since, in order to avoid busy roads, the itinerary includes passing on minor roads, keep an eye on your GPS track and navigator so as not to miss turning at the right crossroads.
We are waiting for you at the ebike rental point in Chiusano San Domenico, ready to welcome you back and to collect your impressions and suggestions on the experience you will have had riding your pedal-assisted bike.
Remember that we are at your complete disposal before, during and after your excursions on the rented ebikes. Thanks to the GPS trackers on all our pedal-assist bikes, we can reach you quickly and accurately in the event of difficulties.
For information on routes and rental, and for assistance during ebike rental, you can call us by phone (Mon 16:30-20:00 / Tue-Sat 9:30-13:30, 16:30-20:00) or text us on Whatsapp 24 hours a day. The contact number is always the same, whether you want to talk by voice or exchange messages on Whatsapp. Just add the number 0825.31.139 to your address book to chat with us.
If you just want to think about having fun, relax and let one of our guides accompany you. We will be happy to reveal hidden corners, breathtaking views and share the road with you.
This splendid e-bike route through the prestigious vineyards of Monferrato will allow you to discover, without too much effort, the most beautiful villages and landscapes in the area.
It is a circular route that starts and ends from the prestigious Hotel La Villa di Casalotto and will allow you to admire the splendid landscapes of the Barbera, Moscato and Brachetto vineyards.
What to see in Fontanile
Starting from the renowned structure "La Villa", you will immediately face a steep descent and a subsequent climb that will allow you to reach the village of Fontanile, a town famous for its wines, the Murales, but above all for its mammoth Church of San Giovanni Battista , whose dome, designed by the architect engineer Francesco Gualandi, stands out in the center of the village dominating the surrounding landscape.
Do not miss a visit to this characteristic monument whose dome is the highest in the province of Asti!
From here you can continue in the direction of Mombaruzzo enjoying a break at the Giant Bench of Fontanile, located in a splendid panoramic position.
Alice Bel Colle and its Belvedere
After the Big Bench the descent continues until you reach Mombaruzzo Station.
From here, the track will continue in the direction of Castelletto Molina.
A long but slightly uphill panoramic road will allow you to reach the splendid village of Alice Bel Colle, one of the highest municipalities in the province of Asti with its 420 meters above sea level.
Alice Bel Colle is a town of less than 800 inhabitants, mostly perched on top of a hill. Going up the steps in Piazza Guacchione it is possible to reach a panoramic viewpoint with a 360° view of the Monferrato hills: an incredible view, from Turin to Milan, from the Alps to the Ligurian Apennines. Indescribable in words.
After the obligatory stop at the viewpoint, it will be possible to continue the ride until you reach the town of Ricaldone.
What to see in Ricaldone
Once in Ricaldone it is impossible not to stop again on the belvedere at the entrance to the town to enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards.
For music lovers, a visit to the museum dedicated to the singer Luigi Tenco is not to be missed: located in the building of the former Municipal Kindergarten, the museum is called the "Luigi Tenco Permanent Documentation Center" and is dedicated to the singer-songwriter and his compositions and songs as well as to his life.
The singer is buried in the cemetery, who died tragically in the night between 26 and 27 January 1967 during the Sanremo Festival.
Continuing the Tour you will arrive at the village of Maranzana.
Maranzana and the way back
Once in Maranzana, you cannot fail to notice a dense group of "babaci".
The latter, called in local jargon, are nothing more than fabric puppets made by the local inhabitants to repopulate the streets of the village which were emptying.
Thanks to this recent discovery, Maranzana receives many visits from national and international tourists every year.
It is also possible to organize a tasting at the local Cantina Sociale La Maranzana, to taste the typical products of the area.
Continuing along the track, you will reach the town of Mombaruzzo Stazione again and then face a last climb that will allow you to reach the "crest" of the hill.
The last part of the ride will be flat until you get back to Casalotto, but not before having evaluated a visit/tasting to the prestigious Berta Distilleries located along the way.
in Monferrato, in Campo ligure, to Lerma Castle, to Lavagnina's lakes, in Capanne's natural parc
This route develops into the territory in the Valdastico along narrow white and paved roads and allows you to pedal for about 34 kilometers with a 579-meter level off from Arserum to arrive until San Pietro Valdastico.
Start point
The starting point is in Arsero-Via dei Longhi where you start with a breakfast / merenda at the bar Campagna with coffee and brioche.
Arserum-Old Railway Station- Cartiera Rossi
From the starting point, the Old Railway Station is reached strongly by Alessandro Rossi, ledader of the Italian industrialists, who promoted and financed the construction to connect the manufacturing plant of Schio, Piovene Rocchette and Arserum.
The path continues in the direction Cartiera Rossi, founded in 1878 by Francesco Rossi, a major company in which over 1300 employees were employed, becoming in a few years the largest European cartiera of the era.
Contrà Pria-Valdastico
Profollowing our path comes to the Treatoria all 'Isola, typical trattoria where you can taste typical homemade dishes, then continue to Contrà Pria, also known as the "Caribbean of the Veneto", prestigious location immersed in nature, where the river forms some anse by creating small, ideal ponds for bathing.
It is still continuing to arrive at the Torrions of Pedescala, ancient guard towers placed in an 'altura between Contrà La Pria and Barcarola site in the territory of Cogollo in the Horographical Left of the Astico valley falls into this defense optics and is thought to be used as a signalling tower in the event of danger by being in visual correspondence with the castle of Velo. Some scholars argue that the foundations are of Roman invoice.
Profollowing the journey to the valley of the Valdastic, there is a fascinating "Il Gorgo", fascinating place with regoglish waterfalls, fostered upstream directly from the mountain, creates unique beauty landscapes, its sassi beach allows it to relax and freshen up in its waters.
This place is also associated with the ancient Italo-Austrian border.
From here it is pedal to the pizzeria Antica Valdastico, local rennomed for its gourmet pizza.
Anelli delle Anguane
After a short culinary break, you go back to the ferrata "
Anelli delle Anguane", recent ferrata composed of an intertwining of vertical ferred streets, equipped dines and ribbed paths that develop along about 300 mt. of a peak rocky bastion on the Val d' Astico. There are three vertical traits and a Tibetan bridge.
You are almost at the end of the 'ring' itinerary at the return ebike point.
The itinerary leads to the discovery of a stretch of the Via Francigena and the Castello di Quart, through the natural environments typical of the Aosta alluvial plain and the slopes exposed to the sun dell'adret.
The beautiful dirt roads that wind through the broadleaf woods follow a large part of the network of irrigation canals that unmistakably characterizes the rural landscape of the Valle d'Aosta.
Along one of these brooks, known as Pompillard, you can reach the splendid medieval aqueduct bridge located in upstream of the city of Aosta.
in Valle d'Aosta, in Chatillon, in Fenis, in Ayas, In Cervino valley, to Champlong lakes, in Chamois, to Lod lake, to Zerbon mount
Gran Tour del Lazio: Un Viaggio in Bicicletta alla Scoperta della Regione
Scopri il Gran Tour del Lazio (GTL), un'avventura ciclistica unica che ti porta attraverso i tesori nascosti della regione. Questo straordinario percorso ad anello di oltre 1000 km parte da Roma e a Roma ritorna, collegando tutte le province del Lazio in 18 tappe perfettamente modulabili.
Il GTL è stato pensato per offrire la massima flessibilità: ogni segmento inizia e termina presso una stazione ferroviaria, permettendoti di vivere l'esperienza secondo i tuoi ritmi. Che tu abbia a disposizione un solo giorno o diverse settimane, il Gran Tour si adatta alle tue esigenze, consentendoti di esplorare il territorio "a moduli" o "a rate".
Pedalando lungo il GTL, passerai dalle dune costiere all'Appennino, dai laghi vulcanici alle antiche tagliate etrusche, dai borghi medievali ai rigogliosi vigneti. Il percorso si snoda su strade poco trafficate, cammini di pellegrinaggio e sentieri secondari, lontano dal caos cittadino e immerso nella natura.
Nato come progetto dal basso, il GTL valorizza il ricchissimo patrimonio del Lazio attraverso quattro percorsi tematici: la Ciclovia dei Latini (l'Urbe), la Ciclovia dei Volsci (il Mare), la Ciclovia degli Equi (i Monti) e la Ciclovia degli Etruschi (i Laghi). Un'opportunità unica per riscoprire il territorio con ritmi slow, seguendo le orme del Grand Tour ottocentesco ma con le due ruote.
Unisciti a noi in questa avventura sostenibile che promuove il cicloturismo, rivaluta i borghi dimenticati e crea una rete virtuosa tra comunità locali, tradizioni enogastronomiche e meraviglie storico-artistiche del Lazio.
a Empoli, in Val d'Arno
Itinerario di mezza giornata nelle prime colline da abbinare ad una visita della città di Faenza, culla del Neoclassicismo e famosa per le sue maioliche. Partendo da punto noleggio di Faenza si costeggiano le antiche mura della città per portarci verso la località di Celle ed iniziare a salire tra i vigneti del Sangiovese. Continuiamo verso l'abitato di Castel Raniero, prima di ritornare verso Faenza. Passiamo ancora per un tratto delle antiche mura prima di raggiungere la piazza principale ed il Museo Internazionale della Ceramica.
a faenza, a imola, a ravenna, a forlì
Il tour autoguidato in ebike al Monte Tuscolo e del monte salomone è un itinerario intenso e appagante, ricco di panorami mozzafiato dei Castelli Romani e della città di Roma. È possibile visitare il parco archelogico del Tuscolo. L'area archelogica è visitabile con gli orari che troverai nella descrizione del punto di interesse. Nelle vicinanze dell'area archeologica ci sono delle zone pic-nic attrezzate. Proseguendo il percorso si prima alla splendida fattoria La Collina degli asinelli dove poter fare un pic nic tra la natura incontaminata e delgi spendidi animale .A seguire si arriva alla chiesa di San Silvestro . Scendendo di livello attraverso numerosi tornanti si attraversa la tuscolana e tra i boschi di Rocca di Papa tornando al punto di partenza dell'itinerario .
Si tratta di un percorso lungo (ma è possibile percorrerne solo dei tratti) che si sviluppa su strade secondarie e rurali e arriva fino a Libarna uno uno dei siti archeologici più interessanti del nord Italia.
Volete scoprire tutto di questo percorso? Trovate tutte le informazioni relative a questo percorso promosso da 9 comuni dell'area ((Alluvioni Piovera, Arquata Scrivia, Basaluzzo, Francavilla Bisio, Fresonara, Gavi, Pozzolo Formigaro, Sale, Tassarolo) su Cicloturismo Piemonte dove potrete scoprire anche gli itinerari secondari.
in Monferrato, in Campo ligure, to Lerma Castle, to Lavagnina's lakes, in Capanne's natural parc
in Val Borbera, in Arquata Scrivia, in Gavi, to Borghetto Borbera
**Update on 22nd September 2020**
The following text and the linked "hikes" routes are part of the Gallo Nero Bike Day event on last 20th September 2020. Together with the organising body we decided to let the routes be available all year round, hoping that more and more people decide to cycle on our roads. If you want to visit wineries, restaurants and businesses who joined the event, please call in advance because special menus and prices and opening times may vary without notification.
The two routes, the Granfondo (135 km, elevation difference 2621 m) and the Mediofondo (83 km, elevation difference 1526 m), offer breathtaking views of our countryside, the ultimate iconic Italian landscape. Starting in Radda in Chianti, where cyclists can admire the old city walls, and ending in Greve in Chianti, the birthplace of explorer and navigator Giovanni da Verrazzano, the route breezes by vineyards in the sunny Golden Basin of Panzano in Chianti, cuts through San Casciano and then dips down towards Castellina in Chianti, chosen by Michelangelo Buonarroti as his personal retreat. The long route meanders through the southernmost part of the territory, among lush vineyards and breathtaking hills, like the ones of San Regolo and Castagnoli. Both routes descend and rise several times, but don’t include highly technical incline climbs, allowing participants to enjoy the amazing landscape in its most glorious moment – the end of summer.
in Chianti, in Greve in Chianti, in Cavriglia, in Radda in Chianti, in Gaiole in Chianti, in Castellina in Chianti, Eroica, Tuscany in ebike
This pleasant and flat bike tour will take you to discover Staffarda Abbey by guiding you on a pleasant loop that winds along the slopes of Monbracco. The loop passes through the municipalities of Paesana, Barge, Martiniana Po and Sanfront, leading you to discover the historical and gastronomic wealth of this area.
What to see in Barge
The town of Barge has a very ancient history, as testified by the rock engravings found on the summit of Monte Bracco (often shortened to Monbracco). It is from the 1400s that Barge began a flourishing development mainly thanks to the quarrying industry of construction rocks from the slopes of Monbracco. Even Leonardo Da Vinci in one of his manuscripts mentions this mountain, describing it as a site for the production of a "stone as white as Carrara marble and as hard as porphyry", hence the nickname Montagna di Leonardo (Leonardo's Mountain). Barge can also boast many fine monuments and churches, such as the parish church of San Giovanni Battista, the ruins of the Lower Castle and the medieval streets of the old town centre.
What to see in Staffarda
Pedalling along secondary roads immersed in green fields, you reach the abbey of Santa Maria di Staffarda. Founded in the early 12th century by the Order of Cistercian monks on land donated by Marquis Manfredo I of Saluzzo. The abbey consists of several buildings including an impressive Romanesque/Gothic cloister, a guesthouse and a covered market. Since the Middle Ages, it has been an important centre for trade, also favoured by the products obtained from the reclamation of the surrounding farmland desired by the monks. In 1690, it suffered serious damage following the battle between the Savoy and French who were fighting over the territory of Saluzzo. It was then rebuilt in the first decades of the 18th century, altering its typical Gothic forms.
What to see in Sanfront
Leaning against the walls of Monbracco, under a rocky outcrop, stands Balma Boves, a charming hamlet where time seems to have stopped in the Middle Ages and which recalls the villages of the pueblos navajos. In fact, the last inhabitants of this village abandoned it in the 1950s when its location was unsuitable for modern life. Today, transformed into an eco-museum, it reminds us of when man, in these valleys, still lived in perfect harmony with nature, knowing how to exploit natural resources without abusing them.
in paesana, at pian del re, at pian della regina, in ostana, in sanfront, in revello, in saluzzo, in staffarda, in bagnolo, in barge, in crissolo, at pian mune, in valle bronda, in brondello, in castellar, in rifreddo
Essence... this is the name of this tour.The essence of Cordoba is the smell and the flavor.
Spring is the perfect time to discover and enjoy the smell of Cordoba. Smell of the flowers of our “Patios” , the courtyards with flowering balconies of the traditional Andalusian´s homes you can find only in Cordoba.
We gonna visit together 5 of the most beautiful Patios in Cordoba, passing through the magical streets of the Jewish district to arrive to San Basilio, one of the Cordoba's most charming squares, where we can find a lot of patios.
Then, we gonna taste the flavor of Cordoba. You will taste the Andalusian´s Gastronomy in a beautiful typical taberna cordobesa.
We cannot forget the culture and the history so, of course, in this tour we visit also the royal stables, the place where king Felipe II made a new horse´s breed, the Andalusian horse.
Price: 29 euros/pp. (including Patios and Horse Stable entrances, tapas and the bike route)
Meeting Point: Elektrik Shop - Calle Maria Cristina 5 (close to the Roman Temple)
in Cordoba
Il percorso
Il percorso è un itinerario dedicato ai luoghi che ispirarono l'ambientazione delle opere di Beppe Fenoglio. Con un'e-bike in poco tempo si potrà facilmente pedalare tra le colline su strade secondarie e poco trafficate raggiungendo le tappe d'interesse culturale. Tutto il tempo guadagnato sarà occasione per scoprire angoli nascosti e nuovi panorami per poi immergersi nella lettura di un frammento delle opere fenogliane che hanno fatto la storia della letteratura italiana. Riscopri la vita contadina di Agostino tra le mura del tipico Pavaglione, o soffermati davanti le rocche dei sette fratelli ad udire sulle righe di Fenoglio, l'eco della resistenza vissuta dal Partigiano Johnny.
Questi sono solo alcuni degli assaggi di un'esperienza dedicata al centenario dalla nascita di Beppe Fenoglio.
COME FUNZIONA L'AUTOGUIDA
Segui l'itinerario lungo il tracciato e raggiungi le tappe contrassegnate dal tag verde. Facendo "tap" su di esse potrete accedere alla scheda dedicata al luogo fenogliano e assaporare, in autonomia o in compagnia, un breve testo ambientato in una delle opere di Fenoglio.
Ringraziamenti
Questo tour tematico nasce da un iniziativa sviluppata in collaborazione con il Progetto "Leggere Ovunque - Biblioteca Diffusa" e il "Centro Studi Beppe Fenoglio".
I diritti sono concessi gratuitamente dagli eredi Fenoglio e tutte le opere sono edite da Einaudi.
in Novello, in Barolo, in La Morra, in Verduno, in the Langhe, in Roero, in Barbaresco, in Neive, in Monforte, in Diano, in Castiglion Falletto, in Alba, in Bra
Volterra and its Hills by Bike
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the rolling hills surrounding Volterra offer some of Italy's most fascinating cycling tourism experiences. The e-bike tour guides cyclists, through the practical Bikesquare app, to discover the hidden treasures of this extraordinary region, where ancient history, breathtaking panoramas, and authentic culture converge to create an unforgettable adventure. Starting from our convenient bike rental point in Volterra, this journey promises to transport you through a landscape that has inspired artists, poets, and dreamers for centuries. The adventure begins at our well-equipped bike rental center in Volterra. Before departure, you will receive a comprehensive briefing on the route, notable landmarks, and safety tips to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it is memorable.
Romanesque Church of Palagione
After visiting Volterra's historic center, the bike route continues gently descending into the verdant countryside, where cypress-lined avenues and olive groves create the quintessential Tuscan backdrop. The first destination, Palagione, emerges after about 5 kilometers of relaxed pedaling through this pastoral paradise. The highlight of Palagione is undoubtedly its exquisite Romanesque church, a masterpiece of medieval religious architecture dating back to the 12th century. Standing in serene isolation amid the surrounding fields, this ancient place of worship invites visitors to step back in time. The simple yet elegant façade of the church, characterized by local sandstone and precise geometric designs, exemplifies the Romanesque architectural style that flourished throughout Tuscany. Inside, the cool and silent environment offers a moment of rest and contemplation, while the ancient stone columns and surviving frescoes speak of centuries of devotion and artistic expression. The peaceful churchyard provides the perfect place for a brief stop and perhaps a snack.
Pignano
Leaving Palagione behind, with the e-bikes you effortlessly reach a landscape that unfolds like a living Renaissance painting. The route to Pignano follows ancient paths that have connected these settlements for millennia, offering constantly changing views of vineyards, wheat fields, and distant hilltop villages. After about 7 kilometers of gentle undulations, you arrive at Pignano, a perfectly preserved medieval village that seems frozen in time. This enchanting settlement, with its cluster of stone buildings centered around a historic manor house, embodies the timeless charm of rural Tuscany. Pignano's narrow cobblestone streets invite exploration, revealing hidden courtyards adorned with flowering plants and glimpses of daily life that have changed little over the centuries. The village's elevated position offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, with Volterra visible in the distance on clear days. A small café in the center of the village offers the opportunity to sample local specialties, including the region's renowned pecorino cheese, cured meats, and robust red wines.
The Natural Splendor of Mazzolla
The route skirts the edge of the Berignone Forest Nature Reserve, a protected area of remarkable biodiversity. This ancient woodland, home to wild boars, deer, and numerous bird species, offers a strong contrast to the cultivated fields crossed earlier in the day. Mazzolla itself is perched on a natural terrace, giving visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and distant hills. This tiny village, with fewer than 100 permanent residents, is centered around the impressive Villa Viti, a 19th-century mansion built by alabaster merchant Giuseppe Viti. The villa's eclectic architectural style, combining elements of neoclassical grandeur with more whimsical oriental influences, reflects the cosmopolitan tastes of its original owner who traveled the world. The village square, shaded by ancient linden trees, offers an idyllic spot to rest and rehydrate while absorbing the tranquil atmosphere that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Local residents, accustomed to cyclists passing through their village, often greet visitors with warm smiles and, occasionally, tales of local history and traditions.
Return to Volterra
The final stretch of the bike adventure toward Volterra opens up panoramic views of the Val di Cecina, with its mosaic of fields, olive groves, and vineyards stretching toward the distant horizon. The afternoon light bathes the landscape in a golden glow, creating perfect lighting conditions for photography enthusiasts. The ancient city of Volterra gradually appears, with its medieval towers and defensive walls silhouetted against the sky. Your approach takes you past the remains of the Etruscan necropolis, a poignant reminder of the three thousand years of continuous human habitation in this region. The route culminates in a truly spectacular finale with the entrance to Volterra through the iconic Porta all'Arco, an Etruscan gate dating back to the 4th century BC. This ancient portal, with its characteristic three weathered stone heads watching over all who pass beneath, provides an appropriate conclusion to a journey that has traversed both the physical landscape and the rich tapestry of history that defines this remarkable corner of Tuscany.
volterra, a volterra
Starting from the rental point headquarters, cross the Po di Venezia, the main branch of the Po Delta and head towards the Po di Maistra. The itinerary continues on a pleasant cycle path that follows the course of the river up to the Ponte di Barche di Boccasette, from here it is possible to branch off the path towards Boccasette beach. Cross the bridge and head towards Scaranello, from here begins the Via delle Valli, which runs along the Valli da Pesca where among the reeds it will be possible to see the Pink Flamingos. The road leads to Porto Levante on the branch of the Po di Levante, go up the river skirting the fish farms in the valley up to the Sadocca hydro-shelter where you continue on the dirt road that leads to Ca 'Venier sul Po di Venezia from which you return to the start point
comacchio, salina di cervia, cervia, ravenna, goro, foce del po
L'ascesa ai corni è caratterizzata da una prima parte di 5km circa su strada provinciale asfaltata abbastanza trafficata con pendenza media del 5%
La seconda parte altri 4-5Km sempre di strada asfaltata in assoluta assenza di traffico veicolare dove la pendenza media sale al 8/9% medio
La terza e ultima parte di circa 1-1,5 km la si percorre su di uno stretto nastro in cemento in assoluta assenza di traffico veicolare, qui le pendenze diventano quasi proibitive, media del 12/13% con tratti che tocccano il 23/25%
Una volta giunti in cima si può godere di un panorama fantastico sulla citta di Lecco e ci si puà rilassare al rificio S.E.V.
Sconsigliato a chi non ha un minimo di preparazione.
Oliveto Lario, Lago di Como, Bellagio, Magreglio, Lezzeno
Un grazioso cancelletto separa il borgo antico della città di Montalbano Jonico, denominata dai residenti Terra Vecchia, da una suggestiva immersione nel cuore della Riserva naturale dei Calanchi per valorizzare un luogo unico che racconta come era la vita della Terra milioni di anni fa.
Il borgo antico è collegato alla valle del Fiume Agri da una mulattiera (appiett') che attraversano i calanchi della Riserva, un tempo via obbligata per i contadini che quotidianamente si recavano nei propri poderi (giardini).
Tra i nudi calanchi, ricchissimi di fossili e accenni di macchia mediterranea, si possono effettuare osservazioni botaniche, geologiche, paleontologiche e storico-culturali.
Il sito è stato definito dai massimi esperti un vero museo paleontologico a cielo aperto, costituito da un’immensa quantità e varietà di contenuto fossilifero con ben nove livelli vulcanoclastici, a testimonianza di altrettante e distinte eruzioni vulcaniche.
I Calanchi sono costituiti da una successione sedimentaria di età tra 1,2 milioni di anni e circa 640 mila anni che rappresenta l’espressione fisica (le argille) della transizione dal Pleistocene inferiore al Pleistocene medio.
Per purezza geologica e di stratificazione i Calanchi di Montalbano Jonico sono stati proposti all’Inqua (International Union for Quaternary Research) per il Chiodo d’oro (golden spyke).
Possibile, previa prenotazione, un rientro nel centro abitato con ebike del vicino centro noleggio Ginestrebike. Quest'ultimo offre la possibilità di adibire le sue ebike che le Cargobike di seggiolini ammortizzati a norma. Le Cargobike elettrificate con una capacità di carico fino ad 80kg sono state scelte da Noi per condividere con i Nostri bambini diversamente abili l'esperienza di una escursione in paesaggi incontaminati.
A horse-drawn ring between the high and the low Formazza valley, will be an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the suggestive discourses that welcomed the walsers when they arrived from the nearby Canton Valais (CH) in search of new pastures. A leap in the past, exploring one of the most suggestive waterfalls of Europe chastened into one of the least known valleys of Italy.
Attention : The path is only partly walkable with the bike trailer for children. In the stretch between the locations "Ponte" and "Under Frua" it is necessary to use the carrable road if you want to opt out of this solution. Even for all those who are not familiar with the MTB, it is ill-advised to move from the cycling between the two traits above, because the ramping up of the ramps and the close back could create difficulties.
What to see, Formazza-the Fracks
All rich in history and charm, take the time to explore the typical walser dwellings immersed in the greenery of the meadows and rich in colors in each season.
Antillone [ Puneiga ], fraction no longer inhabited, is a destination of walks to reach the nearby Alpeans of Vova and Salecchio.
Brendo [ In Dä Brendu ], "in the woods downed with the fire", is a tiny agglomeration of houses collected around the Chiesetta of the Madonna del Carmine. From here, the Valley shrinks and is steeped in steep. In the vicinity lies the Central Giacinto Motta that exploits the hydroelectric basins of Morasco, Vannino, Sruer, Toggia and Kastel for the production of Energy Electricity.
Canza [ Früduwald ] and Grovella [ Gurfalu ], "woods of the waterfall" and "area of the boulders". They are two fractions between them close to where numerous ancient dwellings in larice built by the Walsers are counted. In Canza L' abate was partially destroyed by an avalanche in 1951 that caused numerous casualties.
Church [ in der mattu ], "located between the meadows", is the seat of the Formazza Parish. The fraction is made up of a small agglomeration of houses that gathers around the Saints Bernardo and Carlo's Parrochial. In the fraction is also the ancient Walser Cemetery with the wooden crosses, equal for each deceased.
Fondovalle [ Schtafulwald ], "court for the cattle surrounded by the woods", or "forest of the enclosure," is the first village adagiarised on the afflicted plain on the "Casse" cliff. Originally the village was wooden but it was destroyed by an immense avalanche in 1863 and rebuilt in masonry.
Foppiano [ Undrum Stalda ], is the first of the Valley and is inhabited all year round. Within the fraction there is the Oratorio dedicated to St. John and typical wooden constructions.
Frua [ Uf Der Frütt ], location famous for winter tourism and for the Cascade del Toce.
Ponte [ Zumschtäg ], is the heart of the Valley and home to City Hall. The name of the Fration refers to the presence of the only bridge on the River Toce. In Fraction there is also a school for the children of the elementary school where the old Walser dialect is still learned. At the end of the country, towards the Brendo fraction, lies the oldest formaze house, the Casa Forte, ancient home of the amhand, the head of the walser colony. Here, too, there is a dedicated Oratorio in Santa Caterina. Inaugurated on November 25, 1661, the church was expanded in 1884. The last renovation dates back to 1986-1987.
San Michele [ Tuffald ], "deep woods," the woods close to the fraction were devastated by a large fire in 1765. The landscaper is home to an Fund Sci Centre, with a 12 km runway ring that runs all the flat part of the Valley, from Ponte to Fondovalle. At the location are also two religious buildings : Church of St. Michael and St. Lucia built in 1663.
Under Frua [ Unter Der Frütt ], "under the Cascade" of the Toce. There is a cloth and two large structures predominantly used by the Salesians for summer gatherings and various gatherings.
Valdo (Wald), "woods", ancient home of the Municipality of Formazza now moved to Ponte. In The Fraction is present the chairlift of the Sagersboden that leads to the top of the Pista of the Campions so defined for its beauty and typology.
Focus, the Walsers
The Walsers (contraction of the German Walliser, i.e., vallese, inhabitant of canton Valais) are a population of Germanic origin that inhabits the alpine regions around the Mount Rosa Massive. Whose language is defined as Titsch, Töitschu or Titzschu, terms related to German Deutsch.
Established in the Valley of the Goms, during the centuries XII and XIII, Walser settlers from the high Valais settled in different locations of the Alpine arch in Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria and France. The history of the Walser people in the south of the alps begins in the middle of the thirteenth century, for progressive migrations, developing over time the allocated settlements that we know today.
Their peculiarity was that of having given birth to a model of colonizing high quotas occupying and transforming abandoned alpeses. The Val Formazza represented the entrance door of the Walsers, from here they transitioned and colonized the Alpine arch on the Italian side, whose first stable settlements stood beyond the 1,800 mt.s.l.m. Their peculiarity was that they gave birth to a model of colonizing the high stakes by occupying and transforming abandoned alpeses, valleys and spoiled mountains with permanent settlements.
Focus, Sbrinz Route
All years in late August, for more information www.sbrinz-route.ch
Historical resuming in costume of the journey that unites Bern to Domodossola, a walk in multiple stages during which the journey is relocated to the teaching of tradition. A great way of communication that already 600 years ago, through the Gries Pass, at 2479 m of the quota between the Val Formazza and the Upper Valais, constituted the most direct route between the Lombard Plain and central Switzerland. From Milan to Bern, from the Mediterranean to the plains of Central Europe, they transitioned men, goods, ideas. It was a commercial street, a caravaniera traveled from long rows of mule loads of goods. From the north they went down cattle, skins and cheeses (the "sbrinz" of the Oberland Bernese), but also luxury products such as the precious crystals worked by the monks of Engelberg destined for Italian courts. From the south, the cloths and lust lumps and the wine of Ossola, exported to the court of France.
Focus, the Orrids of Uriezzo
A small canyon located in the municipality of Premia. In the course of the last glaciation (finished about 12,000 years ago) in the present Valle Antigorio and Formazza was the Ghisteel del Toce that with the passage of time and with the help of the torrents at its base eroded the rock by going to form this particular natural spectacle. The tortuous cunics and the throats that it is possible to admire today were formed once the glacier has disappeared. The draining of the various glacial streams has left room for a real canyon that you can visit on foot today. The phenomenon of erosion has created a very rare natural landscape in the Alps. The water force has made up a series of large subcircular cavities separated by narrow and tortuous cunicles whose walls are covered with grooves, volutes and niches.
Focus, Piero Portaluppi-Architect
was one of the most important architects and urbanists of the first half of the ' 900 Italian. Although he has operated predominantly in northern Italy, and in particular for the high bourgeoisie meneghine, he has a real revolution in the way of thinking about the architecture of public and private spaces. Over the course of his career he has carried out projects in a number of areas : not only palaces and residential villas, but also hydroelectric power stations-in which he applied architectural styles more related to historical construction than to industrial-funerary newsrooms, exhibition pavilions, hotels and much more.
Focus, the Formaggi of the Val d' Ossola
Among the cheeses of the Val d' Ossola a place of honor certainly occupies the Bettelmatt, the "cheese of the Gods," produced in seven alpeses of the Antigory valleys and Formazza at an altitude of between 1800 and 2400 meters. The Bettelmatt is produced in the summer, and it is a cheese that nods the great tradition of breed breeding of brown breed. Obtained from the milk of one milking, worked raw and whole, therefore with two daily work, it is a true triumph of perfumes, aromas and unmistakable flavours from the aromatics pastures of the Alps Lepontine.
The maturation of the Bettelmatt can vary from a few months to more years, but only after at least 90 days of seasoning the aromas and perfumes reach the height of the intensity. Of yellow gold or clowns, thick and bronze with maturation, intense, prolonged and deep, aromatic, never trivial flavour.
Other characteristic cheese is Ossolan : a semi-fat or fatty cheese from the delicate, herbaceous, more intense and prolonged flavour in the course of the affinity, used as a dish as a stant and also in the preparation of the traditional potato gnocchi, chestnut flour and pumpkin, or in the poles conce, or still with rye bread to form the traditional oxolan merenda.
a Verbania, sui Laghi, sul Lago Maggiore, nella Val d'Ossola, Premosello-Chiovenda, Vogogna, Macugnaga, sul Toce, Lago di Mergozzo
This is a nice tour starting from the ebike rental point in Bolsena and reaching Civita di Bagnoregio.
This is a small village rich of history starting about 2500 years ago.Scoprirai di più di un borgo, un piccolo scrigno con dentro una storia lunga 2500 anni.
Earthquakes, wind and erosion have caused the valley to erode making the village more and more isolated.
The erosion is continuing in recent years and this will unfortunately lead to the slow disappearance of the village.
in Bolsena, at Bolsena Lake, in Gradoli, in San Lorenzo Nuovo, in Capodimonte, in Grotte di Castro, in Marta, in Montefiascone, in San Lorenzo Nuovo, in Valentano, in Orvieto, in Civita di Bagnoregio
SANTA SEVERA / BRACCIANO
In its sixteenth stage, the GTL once again leaves the sea to go inland, in the last stretch towards Rome, one of the most scenic: the Tolfa Mountains, the Sabatini Mountains and the area of the volcanic lakes north of Rome. Leaving Santa Severa and its castle, we take secondary roads in the countryside close to the Aurelia through the Macchiatonda Regional Nature Reserve, up to Cerveteri. Here it is certainly worth stopping for a visit to the splendid Etruscan necropolis of Banditaccia. From here we return to the coast to pass the seaside resorts of Ladispoli and Marina di San Nicola, connected to each other by a cycle path obtained from the route of the old railway line, near the imposing Odescalchi Castle. After San Nicola, the maritime landscape gradually gives way to barren hills first, and then to lush pine forests, until it climbs into the woods in the direction of Castel Giuliano, a few steps from the waterfalls of the same name and its ancient fortress. A little more climb near the Caldare di Manziana and its woods, and the vegetation becomes even thicker: we have reached what was the edge of the volcano, and we can look into the blue of its original crater, Lake Bracciano. The destination of this stage welcomes us in a spectacular way, with its tuff houses piled up and gathered around the imposing Odescalchi Castle.
a Empoli, in Val d'Arno
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