Tipi Percorsi
The Bicycle Route Between Calanchi and Balze
The bicycle route between Balze and Calanchi passes through places where nature and history intertwine in a circular path accessible to everyone thanks to e-bikes. This itinerary takes us to discover a unique scenario, characterized by spectacular geological formations, medieval monasteries suspended between heaven and earth, and gastronomic delicacies that tell the essence of this territory.
The e-bike itinerary develops in a loop, making the experience accessible even to those who are less trained. The electric bicycle represents the ideal means to fully immerse yourself in the surrounding landscape, allowing you to appreciate every detail of these lands shaped by time and the elements. The route winds through a succession of breathtaking panoramas, alternating white roads with more adventurous paths, always accompanied by the majesty of the Balze and calanchi that dominate the horizon.
The Balze: Witnesses of an Ancient Geological History
Along the bike path, you observe the Balze which reveal themselves in all their grandeur. These steep slopes with their characteristic golden color represent a natural spectacle of rare beauty and a geological phenomenon of considerable scientific interest. Composed of sand and calcareous sandstone rocks, the Balze are the result of a grand erosive process still in progress, which continues to shape the sediments left by an ancient sea dating back 2.5 million years.
The particular conformation of these geological formations creates plays of light and shadow that reach their peak during the twilight hours, when the setting sun's rays enhance their golden tones, offering a visual spectacle of extraordinary beauty. Pedaling along the route, you will find yourself immersed in an almost lunar landscape, where time seems to have stopped, allowing you to virtually travel back millions of years.
The Calanchi: Natural Sculptures with Wild Charm
In stark contrast to the golden Balze, the calanchi represent another fascinating chapter of this cycling adventure. Characterized by steep southern slopes with pointed crests that shine white under the sun, the calanchi offer a scenario of wild beauty. These clay formations, shaped by the erosion of rainwater, create a surreal landscape that extends as far as the eye can see toward the sea.
The electric bicycle proves to be the perfect means to explore these areas, allowing you to reach panoramic points otherwise inaccessible, from which to admire the breadth and majesty of these natural formations. The gentler slopes, less subject to erosion, host lush cereal crops, creating an evocative chromatic contrast with the white calanchi surrounding them.
The Badia: A Millennium of History Suspended Between Heaven and Earth
A culminating point of the bike tour is represented by the visit to the imposing Badia, a Camaldolese monastery from the medieval era that seems to defy the laws of nature. Perched on the edge of a precipice, this extraordinary building has resisted for about a millennium the inexorable advance of the Balze chasm, creating an image of rare suggestion.
The contrast between man's work and the force of nature reaches its symbolic apex here: the millennial solidity of the monastic structure seems to engage in a silent battle against the unstoppable erosive process that continues to shape the surrounding landscape. The Badia not only represents a monument of exceptional architectural value, but also embodies a place rich in fascination and mystery, where medieval spirituality merges with the dramatic nature of the natural landscape.
San Cipriano: A Window on the Calanchi
The bike path reaches, via a white road, a privileged observation point near the small church of San Cipriano. From this strategic position, you can admire in all its extension the characteristic calanchi landscape of Volterra, distinguished by formations of considerable size, both in length and height.
This natural belvedere offers the opportunity to take memorable photographs and enjoy a moment of contemplation in front of a scenario that seems to have come out of a painting. The small church, with its architectural simplicity, integrates perfectly into the surrounding landscape, adding a further element of cultural interest to the experience.
The Pecorino delle Balze Volterrane DOP: A Gastronomic Treasure
The e-bike tour crosses a hilly territory rich not only in natural and historical beauties, but also in gastronomic excellences. In these hills, the prestigious Pecorino delle Balze Volterrane DOP is produced, a typical cheese that encapsulates the essence of this unique land.
The peculiarity of this cheese lies in the use of vegetable rennet extracted from the wild thistle, a plant that grows spontaneously in local pastures. This production technique, handed down from generation to generation, gives the pecorino a distinctive and unmistakable flavor, which tells the story and traditions of these hills. During the route, there will be opportunities to stop at small farms to taste this product of excellence, accompanied by other local typical products.
Art that Dialogues with the Landscape: The Sculptures of Mauro Staccioli
On the bike following the dirt path called "Itinerary of Balze and Calanchi," the tour leads to the discovery of environmental sculptures created by the artist Mauro Staccioli. These extraordinary works of land art represent a profound dialogue between human creativity and the natural environment, interpreting the essence of the "places of experience" so dear to the artist.
The installations harmoniously integrate into the landscape, framing with essential geometric forms the exciting panorama of balze, calanchi, and hills exposed to the wind, with Volterra majestically dominating the horizon. The encounter with these contemporary works of art further enriches the bicycle tour experience, adding a cultural dimension to the pleasure of physical activity and immersion in nature.
volterra, a volterra
**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
We are in the Langhe, hills, vines (so many vines), castles, small boroughs to discover and great landscapes in which to immerse yourself.
We are in the area of the Nebbiolo vineyards from Barolo where the vineyards are so beautiful and historic that they have become Patrimony of the 'Umanity.
In this tour you can start in electric bike from Novello to reach the municipality of Barolo. And ' little guy but we're betting you're going to take a lot of pictures of his alleys, wineries and his Castle.
Again riding the ebike you can continue down to the Brown Cellar located in a borgle of La Morra. Do you expect the visit to the cellar and a nice and rich tasting.
You'll still have a little bit ' of energy to get up in the saddle? You're waiting for a ride in La Morra while also making a stop at his Red Giant Bench.
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
With this tour, we shall bring you to discover the city and works of the most famous Slovenian architect, Jože Plečnik.
Plečnik is the main author of Ljubljana's most beautiful buildings, that our expert and passionate guide will show you in details.
Ending the itinerary, we shall stop for lunch at a typical restaurant, close to the Ljubljana Castle, commented by our expert guide.
From The Grand Hotel Union, with our ebikes we shall stop at some places in the city center like Market (Adamič Lundrovo Nabrežje 1), Three Bridges (Prešerov trg 1) and Congress Squre (Kongresni trg 15).
Later on, we are going to focus on his works outside of the city center. We shall reach the area of Tivoli park (Celovška cesta 23) , riding along Roman walls (Mirje 19), reaching Krakovo and his residential area Trnovo (Karunova ulica 4). Here we shall visit his home-museum.
There after, we shall point to the center of the city, close to the Ljubljana Castle. Here we shall stop for lunch at a typical restaurant, where we should be able to taste some Slovenian specialties. The lunch includes a starter, a main course, a dessert and 1 glass oh house wine. Every course will be commented by our expert guide, that will describe you the main characteristics of Slovenian gastronomy.
Meeting Point: The Grand Hotel Union Business (Miklosiceva 3, Ljubljana)
Day/Hours: Every Wednesday at 9.30am
Price: 69€ p/p (10 euros to pay in advance as deposit and 59 euros to pay at the guide)
Minimum 9 people
PS: In case of not reaching the minimum number, the tour will be cancelled and you will be refund of your deposit.
a Lubiana, in Slovenia, a Ljubljana
Cycling through the Langhe hills on an e-bike is like immersing yourself in a living painting. The landscape unfolds before your eyes in a succession of orderly vineyards, ancient villages and breathtaking views. The fresh, fragrant air caresses your face whilst the pedal-assisted bicycle allows you to tackle every climb with ease. Each bend reveals a new wonder, each stop is an opportunity to savour the essence of this land rich in history, culture and food and wine traditions. A journey that stimulates all the senses and nourishes the soul, promising unforgettable emotions with every pedal stroke.
La Morra
La Morra, known as the "balcony of the Langhe", welcomes you with a spectacular view that spans from the surrounding hills to the Alps. Stroll through the streets of the historic centre, admiring the elegant palaces and baroque churches. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the municipal wine cellar, where you can taste renowned local wines. For contemporary art lovers, the Barolo Chapel, with its vibrant colours, offers a fascinating contrast to the surrounding landscape.
Grinzane Cavour
Grinzane Cavour will amaze you with its imposing castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Home to the Piedmont Regional Wine Cellar, the manor houses an interesting ethnographic and oenological museum. Climb the tower to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding vineyards. Don't forget to visit the village below, with its characteristic stone and brick houses.
Barolo
Barolo, the world capital of its namesake wine, is an unmissable stop. The majestic Falletti Castle dominates the village and houses the WiMu, the Wine Museum, an interactive and engaging experience suitable for all ages. Walk through the narrow streets of the historic centre, stopping at the numerous wine shops to taste the prized "king of wines". For enthusiasts, the Corkscrew Museum offers a curious collection of these essential tools for every wine lover.
Novello
Novello, the last village on your itinerary, welcomes you with its quiet and authentic atmosphere. Reach the panoramic terrace near the castle, from where you can admire a view that encompasses much of the route you've tackled. The historic centre, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, deserves a relaxing stroll. Don't leave without tasting the famous "hand-pulled breadsticks", a local speciality.
The Experience
This 31 km route is an adventure accessible to all, thanks to e-bikes that make even the most challenging stretches manageable. The self-guided itinerary, supported by the BikeSquare app, offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stopping when and where you prefer. Starting and returning to La Morra, you'll traverse some of the most evocative landscapes of the Langhe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, fully immersing yourself in the rich food and wine culture of the region. It's an eco-friendly journey that combines the pleasure of cycle tourism with the discovery of a unique territory, where each pedal stroke is a caress to the soul and a tribute to the beauty of nature and human ingenuity. An experience that will leave you with the desire to return, to explore these magical hills again and again.
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
in Chianti, in Greve in Chianti, in Cavriglia, in Radda in Chianti, in Gaiole in Chianti, in Castellina in Chianti, Eroica, Tuscany in ebike
The Via Iulia Augusta that, built in 13 century B.C. at the behest of Emperor Augustus, connected Rome to southern Gallia. The route unites Alassio in Albenga and forms a historic-naturalistic walk among the most evocative of the Liguria, with a dramatic view of the island Gallinara. The route begins and ends from the apron of S. Croce, above the port of Alassio. Overcoming the Roman archaeological remains it is possible to reach with a small detour the medieval historical center of Albenga with the cathedral, its medieval towers and museums. A gita fit for the whole family, which unique well-being and culture.
in Liguria, in Toirano, in Albenga, in Borghetto Santo Spirito, in Loano, in Finale ligure, to Monte Carmelo Sanctuary
LAKE TURANO
Once on the border with Abruzzo, the GTL route turns north and heads to Sabina, towards the fourth provincial capital of the region: after Rome, Latina and Frosinone, this stage takes us to Rieti, the "geographical center of Italy". To do so, he chooses the gentler and less harsh route through the mountains, continuing to follow the Way of St. Benedict as already happened in stage 6. We climb in altitude passing through villages set in the green of the Apennine woods, Riofreddo, Vallinfreda, Orvinio, and then enter the Turano valley, where the lake of the same name was formed in 1939, following the construction of a huge dam. In fact, the track follows a flat pace and even slightly downhill as a whole, with only two small uphill climbs, offering the pleasure of pedaling through the mountains without pedaling too much. This valley is not served by train or highways, and has remained relatively quiet and safe from the large tourist flows. The river we skirt, also called Turano, gradually swells until it becomes a fjord, the southern branch of the lake: its contours are often foggy, humid and disturbing. We thus arrive at the two villages of Castel di Tora and Colle di Tora, which look at each other from the two shores of the lake, and the ruins of the castle of Antuni, piled up on a small island near the bridge that joins the two sides. After Colle di Tora there are the only slopes to face to get to the Turano dam: a few hairpin bends in the woods, and we are at the gigantic concrete wall that holds back the course of the river. It is worth a small detour to the villages of Rocca Sinibalda, where the impressive Sforza Cesarini Castle stands, originally from the eleventh century, and Posticciola, an original Roman outpost and transhumance passage. From here on it is all downhill: we lose the altitude gained on a road snubbed by traffic, to easily cover the last flat kilometers towards the Sabine capital.
a Empoli, in Val d'Arno
Percorso ad anello preferito dai biker e dagli escursionisti in genere che vogliono immergersi nella Riserva Regionale dei Calanchi. Si alternano paesaggi calanchivi, pinete ombreggiate come macchia mediterranea serviti da una strada sterrata brecciata. Giro di boa la onnipresente Tempa Petrolla. Sperone di marna silicea che si eleva con i suoi oltre trenta metri dal manto argilloso tanto da essere scelta come punto di vedetta sia dagli spagnoli di un tempo che per ultimo dal brigante Crocco. A conferma di questo sul suo apice si erge una costruzione in pietra raggiungibile da una scalinata scolpita nella roccia. Presenti nelle vicinanze alcuni punti d'acqua come quello di Malabocca ma munirsi di zaino idrico o doppia borraccia nei periodi caldi.
E-bike loop Cortemilia – Serole – Roccaverano – Valle Bormida: hazelnut groves, historic villages and authentic Alta Langa flavors
This circular cycling route starts from Cortemilia, the capital of the IGP Piedmont Hazelnut, and winds through the rolling hills that embody the spirit of the Alta Langa. It’s a perfect itinerary for lovers of e-biking, slow tourism, and authentic experiences that blend nature, history, and local food culture.
Leaving Cortemilia, the trail climbs towards Serole, a small village surrounded by woods and hazelnut groves, where the peaceful landscape invites you to slow down and enjoy the silence. From Serole, the route continues to Roccaverano, the highest village in the Province of Asti, famous for its medieval panoramic tower and the renowned Robiola di Roccaverano DOP cheese. A stop here is a must, to taste local specialties and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
The path then descends into the Bormida Valley, arriving in Monastero Bormida, a village with monastic origins, dominated by a majestic Benedictine castle and a medieval stone bridge, one of the most striking in the area. The historical atmosphere and riverside landscape make this stretch especially charming.
From Monastero, the route continues to Bubbio, known for its well-preserved historic center, stone alleys, and artisan workshops, and then on to Cessole, nestled among vineyards and hazelnut groves, in a landscape that captures the true essence of the Alta Langa.
The loop concludes by returning to Cortemilia, completing a bike tour that brings together nature, heritage, and local gastronomy. Perfect for a day trip on an e-bike or as part of a sustainable weekend in Piedmont, this route offers unforgettable moments in a unique and still-undiscovered territory.
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
Alla scoperta della Valle d'Itria, partenza dal punto di noleggio di Martina Franca per questo percorso ad anello ricco di meraviglie per gli occhi e per il palato.
Potrete immergervi tra ulivi secolari, muretti a secco e panorami mozzafiato, senza dimenticare qualche peccato di gola, i deliziosi pasticcini alle mandorle della pasticceria Almond, le prelibatezze di carne offerte dalla brasseria Gianfrate carni pregiate, i vini ricchi di sfumature pregiate di Cantine Di Marco e per concludere il re incontrato di questi luoghi...l'olio evo da L'Acropoli di Puglia a due passi dal punto di noleggio di Martina Franca.
in Alberobello, in Martina Franca, in Locorotondo, along Pirro canal, in Bisceglie, in Cisternino
Cycling through the Langhe hills on an e-bike is like immersing yourself in a moving painting. The landscape unfolds before your eyes in a succession of orderly vineyards, ancient villages and breathtaking views. The fresh air, fragrant with grapes and earth, caresses your face whilst the pedal-assisted bicycle allows you to tackle every climb with ease. Each bend reveals a new wonder, each stop is an opportunity to savour the essence of this land rich in history, culture and food and wine traditions. A journey that stimulates all the senses and nourishes the soul, promising unforgettable emotions with every pedal stroke.
Novello
Novello, the starting point of your tour, welcomes you with its captivating tranquillity. Explore the historic centre, walking along the belvedere with its panoramic terraces. From here, you can admire breathtaking views of Monforte and, on clear days, the Monviso. Don't leave without tasting Nascetta, a wine produced from a recently rediscovered native grape variety, at the local Wine Shop.
Monforte d'Alba
Monforte d'Alba captivates you with its medieval charm. Climb the ancient cobbled streets of the upper town, amid historic houses and rose-filled flowerbeds. The natural amphitheatre of the village offers an unforgettable panoramic spectacle. From Monforte, continue towards Castiglione Falletto, enjoying breathtaking views and the opportunity to taste fine wines in the area's cellars.
Castiglione Falletto
Castiglione Falletto, perched on a hill, is a gem to discover. Its medieval castle dominates the surrounding landscape, offering a spectacular view of the vineyards. Stroll through the narrow streets of the village, admiring the ancient stone houses and breathing in the authentic atmosphere of a Langhe village. Don't forget to taste the Barolo Rocche di Castiglione DOCG, produced in this area. From Castiglione, continue towards Barolo.
Barolo
Barolo, the world capital of its namesake wine, is an unmissable stop. The e-bikes will allow you to reach it comfortably. Explore the historic centre and visit Falletti Castle, home to the WiMu (Wine Museum). This interactive museum, designed by the same architect as the Turin Cinema Museum, offers a fascinating journey into the region's wine culture. Treat yourself to a tasting of the "king of wines" in one of the numerous wine shops in the village.
The Experience
This 27 km route is an adventure accessible to all, thanks to e-bikes that make even the most challenging stretches manageable. The self-guided itinerary, supported by the BikeSquare app, offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stopping when and where you prefer. Starting and returning to Novello, you'll traverse some of the most evocative landscapes of the Langhe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, fully immersing yourself in the rich food and wine culture of the region. It's an eco-friendly journey that combines the pleasure of cycle tourism with the discovery of a unique territory, where each pedal stroke is a caress to the soul and a tribute to the beauty of nature and human ingenuity. An experience that will leave you with the desire to return, to explore these magical hills again and again.
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
The magical flight of pink flamingos dominates the Salento coastline in the land of Primitivo and Negroamaro.
You cycle through vineyards and wild Mediterranean scrubland before reaching the coast, where the karstic land shows its "spunnulate", karstic resurgences that create small lakes of crystal-clear freshwater.
In the Reserve of the Eastern Taranto Coastline, nature takes over with the Salina dei Monaci and its extraordinary guests, along with the cold and brilliant water of the Chidro river mouth.
The route starts and ends in Manduria. Cycling along the loop, you will pass through the municipalities of Avetrana, Villaggio Boncore, Torre Lapillo, Torre Castiglione, Padula Fede, Punta Prosciutto, Torre Colimena, Specchiarica, San Pietro in Bevagna.
You mainly cycle on asphalt roads, about 75%, but also on dirt roads.
Traffic is light along almost the entire route. In the months of July and August, the stretch on the coastal road is instead characterized by heavy traffic.
The wine 'Negramaro'
Negramaro wine is an oenological excellence typical of Puglia, particularly in the provinces of Lecce, Brindisi, and Taranto.
This native grape variety, whose name derives from the words "black" and "bitter", produces full-bodied and intense red wines that encapsulate all the warmth and passion of Southern Italy.
Negramaro grapes grow lush under the Mediterranean sun, in calcareous and clayey soils that give the wine a unique and unmistakable character. Wines made from this grape variety stand out for their intense ruby color, complex aromas of berries, spices, and floral notes, and a enveloping and persistent taste that makes them perfect to pair with traditional Apulian dishes such as orecchiette with tomato sauce and strong ricotta cheese.
salento, salento ionico, in salento, maglia, lecce, puglia, nardò, avetrana
Le ebike sono il mezzo ideale per scoprire la natura del Roero, le maestose rocche vi lasceranno a bocca aperta.
Tour di una giornata su sentieri panoramici tra Pocapaglia e Sommariva Perno
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
L’itinerario permette di scoprire senza particolari difficoltà le campagne della pianura tra San Vincenzo e Bolgheri. Si tratta di un "viaggio" tranquillo tra uliveti, vigneti, alberi da frutto e poderi. Oltre a piacevoli tracciati di campagna si pedala lungo due strade di grande pregio paesaggistico: la via Bolgherese, accompagnata e ombreggiata da magnifiche querce secolari, e il monumentale Viale dei Cipressi di carducciana memoria che unisce San Guido e Bolgheri.
Meta dell’itinerario è il piccolo borgo di Bolgheri, simbolo di questo territorio diventato famoso nel mondo per i suoi vini. Una sosta assolutamente esclusiva per visitare l’allevamento privato di cinghiali di cinta senese in una tenuta, visita al borgo di Bolgheri e all’antico cimitero monumentale ottocentesco di Nonna Lucia e sul rientro pranzo a casa del fattore alla scoperta degli antichi sapori toscani.
in Scarlino, in Follonica, in Gavorrano, in Castiglione della Pescaia, in San Vincenzo, in Piombino, in Bolgheri, in Ribolla, in Massa Marittima, in Maremma, in Grosseto, at the Uccellina Park, in Orbetello, in Pescia, in Argentario
Takes the way from the borgo on the sea of Gallipoli the fourth stage of the Cyclovia of the Ionian Salento to peddle along the coast and enter the coast and enter the river, in Santa Maria to the Bagno, the cycling on the cliff to Santa Caterina. Here we find ourselves in the great green pineta that mirrors in the crystal clear water of Porto Selvaggio. He then pedals on the catwalk in front of the sea of the Strea to arrive in Porto Cesareo, between dunes and white beaches. To mark the end of the stage is Torre Lapillo, the imposing fortress of the coastal defense system of the sixteenth century.
salento, salento ionico, in salento, maglia, lecce, puglia, nardò, avetrana
Are you in Turin for EuroVision Song Festival?
This is the perfect tour for discovering the city by ebike.
You'll pedal around the city center feeling the vibes for the event of the year.
The tour offers you a nice ride along the Po river where you can observe the city, its life and its monuments.
in Turin
You enter the Great Beauty of the Ancient Appian Way. It starts from the Circus Maximus, crossing the Park of the Ancient Appian Way with its bucolic landscape and millennia-old history. First, you go through the Caffarella Park with its tombs, temples, and springs. From there, strolling along the ancient Latin Way with its alleys and aqueducts, you reach the Park of the Aqueducts.
The Park of the Aqueducts is a unique place where you can admire the majestic arches of the Claudian Aqueduct and the other 7 aqueducts that overlap each other. From there, crossing the New Appian Way, you arrive at the "Queen of Roads," admiring the Villa of the Quintilii, Capo di Bove, Santa Maria Nova, the Tomb of Cecilia Metella, the Circus of Maxentius, the Catacombs of San Callisto, and so on. An immersive tour through the Roman countryside in an open-air museum. Rome and its Great Beauty.
a Empoli, in Val d'Arno
Discover Spello and its surroundings on an exciting self-guided ebike tour through the fascinating landscapes of Umbria. Starting from the ancient medieval town of Spello, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and history along a route that will take you through evocative places and picturesque villages.
Our tour, suitable for everyone, starts in Spello and following the Subasio road takes us to the castle of Collepino. Collepino, once known as Colle-Lupino or Collepieno, is a charming medieval castle situated on the eastern slopes of Mount Subasio, at an altitude of 600 metres above sea level. From its promontory, always kissed by the sun, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Chiona torrent, the city of Foligno and the Spoletana Valley. St. Francis, in a moment of admiration, said of the Spoletana Valley: ‘Nihil iucundius vidi valle mea spoletana’ - ‘I have seen nothing more beautiful than my Spoletana Valley’.
Continuing along the road that skirts Subasio and passes the enchanting castle of San Giovanni di Collepino, one arrives at Armenzano, the castle perched on a hill that offers a spectacular view of the Nocerine hills and mountains and the green valley of the Anna torrent. Every year in June, the surrounding landscape is covered in the brilliant yellow-gold mantle of flowering broom.
Following the same road, we then reach the tiny and pretty hamlet of Costa di Trex, which from the slopes of Subasio overlooks the Tescio valley and the Marchetto ditch.
The tour then continues in the direction of Assisi, where a stop is obligatory due to the countless beauties and sightseeing opportunities that this place, one of the most popular and well-known in the entire Umbria region, offers visitors.
From Assisi we then take the route back to Spello via the magnificent Via degli Ulivi, passing enchanting views and small jewels of local history and culture such as the Maestà del Mascione (or Mascicone). This scenic route halfway between Assisi and Spello, known for its numerous olive groves, offers an evocative journey immersed in nature.
Discover Umbria by ebike with this unforgettable self-guided tour and be enchanted by the timeless beauty of this fascinating Italian region.
a Spello, ad Assisi, a Foligno, a Perugia, a Spoleto
This route starts from the Bike Square rental point in Cabella Ligure. From here you continue along the 140 state road to Albera Ligure and on to San Nazzaro wheve you locality turn left towards Rocchetta Ligure where Valley Sisola begins. The seventeenth-century Palazzo Spinola, home to the Museum of Resistance and social life, is worth a visit. Continuing on the S.P. 145 you can see several water mills. The first, on the side of the road in the lower Pagliaro area, is well underway and functioning. Continuing on you arrive at the hamlet of Sisola where the landscape is characterized by the presence of vineyards of Timorasso, a white native grape grown only in these valleys weighing to the particularity of the soil and its sunny climate. Continuing on the S.P. 145 you can see, on the right the Pravaglione mill, after which the road begins to climb more steeply until you reach Costa Salata which clearly evokes its past as a commercial route between Liguria and Piedmont. From here a long descent begins where the Valley Sisola ends and the Valley Vobbia begins and from Piedmont it passes into Liguria. Following the S.P. 8 you became at the village of Vobbia. From here continue to the right where to narrow gorge begins, along a road map by the lush woods of the Antola park, until you reach the entrance of the Castello della Pietra, carved between two spurs of rock. The castle, dating back to the 1100s, is a cultural center of safeguarding landscape value, showing a perfect fit between nature and history. You can park the bikes and walk along the path that in about 20 leads to the castle where you can take a guided tour on the days and at the set times. Finally we return to Cabella L. following the same road used in the first leg.
in Val Borbera, in Arquata Scrivia, in Gavi, to Borghetto Borbera