Discover Calabria’s Beauty on Two Wheels
For travelers seeking an active and immersive vacation, Calabria offers a cyclist’s paradise, blending stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic culinary delights. Whether you’re pedaling through rugged mountains or along sun-kissed coasts, a cycling holiday in Calabria promises adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories. Here’s your guide to exploring the region’s premier cycle routes, perfect for planning your next vacation.
The Parks Cycle Route: A 545 km Journey Through Nature
The Parks Cycle Route is the ultimate way to experience Calabria’s diverse terrain, stretching 545 km along the Apennine ridge through three national parks—Pollino, Sila, and Aspromonte—and the Serre Regional Park. This route is a dream for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering a mix of breathtaking vistas, ancient villages, and local flavors.
Pollino National Park: A Gateway to Adventure
Kick off your journey in Parque Nacional del Pollino, a biodiversity hotspot symbolized by the iconic Pino Loricato. Start in Laino Borgo, cycling through the dramatic Lao Valley, past the towering Viadotto Italia and the ancient ruins of Laino Castello. Don’t miss the Romito Cave in Papasidero, a Palaeolithic site that transports you back in time.
Continue to Mormanno, where you can savor local specialties like Lenticchia di Mormanno lentils and Fagiolo Bianco Poverello. Your ride leads to Morano Calabro, one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, with its Norman castle and the vibrant majolica-tiled Santa Maria Maddalena church. After a day of cycling, treat yourself to Stoccu e pateni (stockfish and potatoes), a hearty local dish perfect for refueling.
Sila National Park: Lakes and Timeless Forests
Next, pedal into the Sila National Park, where rolling plateaus and serene lakes await. Cycle along Lake Cecita, pausing at Campo San Lorenzo to admire its quaint wooden church. Climb through fields of Sila Potato PGI to reach Camigliatello Silano, a gateway to the Giants of Sila Reserve, home to towering centuries-old trees.
Descending toward Tiriolo, you’ll catch a rare glimpse of both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. Explore Tiriolo’s historic center, known for its traditional pacchiana dress and intricate vancàli stoles. Visit the Ulysses Monument, the Palazzo dei Delfini mosaics, and the Costume Museum to immerse yourself in Calabrian heritage.
Serre Regional Park: Spirituality and Art
Ride into Serre Regional Park and discover Serra San Bruno, a Baroque gem and spiritual haven. Founded by St. Bruno of Cologne, this village is home to the Carthusian Monastery of Santo Stefano and the Shrine of Santa Maria del Bosco. The historic center, adorned with the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, showcases the craftsmanship of Calabria’s master stonemasons, making it a perfect stop for culture-loving cyclists.
Aspromonte National Park: Mountains to Sea
Conclude your journey in Aspromonte National Park, where rugged trails lead to Gambarie d’Aspromonte, a unique ski resort with sea views. Marvel at natural wonders like the Mundu and Galasia waterfalls and the UNESCO-listed Aspromonte Geosites, featuring the striking monoliths of the Valle delle Grandi Pietre. Savor Aspromonte’s culinary treasures, from Aspromonte goat meat to the rare Black Pig of Calabria and artisanal Caprino d’Aspromonte cheese.
Val di Neto Cycle Route: A Green Retreat
For a shorter cycling escape, the Val di Neto Cycle Route offers 38 km of eco-friendly trails along the Neto River in Crotone province. Launched in March 2024, this cyclo-pedestrian path connects six municipalities, blending natural beauty with archaeological gems like castles, caves, and shrines. Pedal through Sites of Community Interest (SCI) and Special Protection Areas (SPA), and connect to the Parks Cycle Route at Lake Ampollino. This route is ideal for vacationers seeking a leisurely ride with a focus on history and nature.
Magna Grecia Cycle Route: A Historical Odyssey
For those drawn to ancient history, the Magna Grecia Cycle Route traces the legacy of the ancient Greeks across 1,130 km from Basilicata to Sicily, with over 800 km in Calabria. Cycle along the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts, exploring archaeological parks, museums, and vibrant cities that were once Magna Graecia capitals. This route is perfect for vacationers eager to combine cycling with cultural exploration.
Coastal Bliss: A Tyrrhenian Gem
No Calabrian cycling vacation is complete without a stop along the Tyrrhenian coast, where charming towns offer a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Enjoy golden beaches, historic castles, and vibrant piazzas, all while indulging in fresh seafood and local delicacies like licorice-infused treats. These coastal stops are ideal for unwinding after a day of cycling, with stunning seafront views to cap off your adventure.
Plan Your Cycling Vacation in Calabria
- Break It Up: Divide the Parks Cycle Route into stages, with overnight stays in picturesque villages like Morano Calabro or Serra San Bruno.
- Savor the Flavors: Refuel with Calabria’s regional dishes, from hearty mountain fare to fresh coastal seafood.
- Gear Up: Ensure your bike is suited for diverse terrains, from mountain climbs to flat coastal paths.
- Embrace the Journey: Take time to visit archaeological sites, local markets, and festivals to fully experience Calabria’s culture.
Discover the Joy of Biking in Amantea and Its Stunning Contrada
Cruise along the breathtaking Amantea Coast in Calabria, Italy, where the Tyrrhenian Sea shimmers under golden sunlight, inviting cyclists to explore its flat, scenic bike paths. This coastal gem offers a laid-back biking experience perfect for all levels, with smooth trails winding past sandy beaches, vibrant beach umbrellas, and charming gelato shops serving creamy pistachio scoops. Feel the refreshing sea breeze as you pedal effortlessly, stopping for a quick dip in crystal-clear waters or to savor a freshly made arancino from a seaside vendor. With mild weather from April to November, the Amantea Coast is a cyclist’s paradise, offering easy rides without steep climbs—ideal for soaking in stunning sea views and indulging in local treats like limoncello. Whether you’re a casual rider or a family looking for fun, this coastal route delivers unforgettable moments with every turn.
Venture inland to the Amantea Contrada, the rural heart of Calabria, where adventure awaits on rugged trails and rolling hills. These charming hamlets, like those near Belmonte Calabro or the thrilling paths of the Calabria Bike Resort, are a mountain biker’s dream. Pedal through olive groves, past ancient stone walls, and discover hidden Byzantine ruins that add a touch of history to your ride. With shuttle services to whisk you up the hills, you can focus on the exhilarating descents through lush forests and pristine mountains, dodging curious goats and waving to locals who might share homemade buccunotto pastries. From epic sea views to secret viewpoints, biking in Amantea’s Contrada blends adrenaline, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery—perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Grab your bike and make Amantea your next cycling adventure!
Ready to embark on a cycling vacation through Calabria’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage? Book your stay with a trusted vacation rental provider at amanteadreams.it and start planning your unforgettable adventure today!
