The best cycling routes around Aliano

Aliano is renowned for its dramatic "calanchi" badlands, characterized by eroded clay hills and gullies, which create a visually stunning and unique backdrop. The region is also part of the Lucanian Apennines, offering a mountainous and hilly terrain with significant elevation gains. You'll encounter a mix of well-paved roads and some unpaved segments, often on secluded roads due to the region's low population density.

The touring cycling routes around Aliano are primarily challenging, catering mostly to experienced cyclists. Out of 14 routes, 11 are rated as difficult and 3 as moderate. Routes often feature significant elevation gains, such as the Stigliano, Accettura, and San Mauro Forte Loop, which includes over 1,200 meters of ascent.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Aliano are designed as loops. For instance, the popular Aliano and the Calanchi Loop is a 26.3 km circular trail offering views of the distinctive badlands. Another option is the From Stigliano to the villages of Cirigliano and Gorgoglione − loop tour, which is a longer 48.7 km loop through the Lucanian Apennines.

The most prominent natural feature is the dramatic "calanchi" badlands, which you can experience directly on routes like the Road Through the Calanchi of Aliano. You can also find stunning panoramic views, such as the Viewpoint over the Bersagliere Ravine. The region is also part of the Lucanian Apennines, offering expansive mountain vistas.

Aliano itself holds cultural significance as the setting for Carlo Levi's novel, 'Christ Stopped at Eboli.' You can explore the village of Aliano, or visit nearby settlements like Alianello Vecchia and Stigliano, which are often connected by the touring routes.

While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the mountainous and hilly terrain of the Lucanian Apennines suggests that spring and autumn would offer the most comfortable temperatures for touring cycling. Summers can be hot, and winters might bring colder conditions to the higher elevations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique and dramatic "calanchi" landscapes, the challenging nature of the routes, and the tranquility of the secluded roads in this less-populated region.

The touring cycling routes around Aliano are generally quite demanding. With 11 routes rated difficult and 3 as moderate, there are currently no routes specifically categorized as easy. This region is best suited for experienced cyclists looking for a significant challenge rather than beginners or families with young children.

Given the challenging terrain and potential for unpaved segments, it's advisable to bring a well-maintained touring bicycle suitable for varied surfaces. Essential gear would include sufficient water, snacks, repair kits, and appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions in a mountainous region. Due to secluded roads, navigation tools and emergency supplies are also recommended.

The duration of routes varies depending on their length and elevation gain. For example, the Aliano and the Calanchi Loop, at 26.3 km, takes approximately 1 hour 56 minutes. Longer routes like the Craco, ghost town – Craco Ghost Town loop from Masseria Monticchio di Sotto, which is 83.9 km with significant climbing, can take over 5 hours 45 minutes.

Yes, you can incorporate a visit to the ghost town of Craco into your cycling itinerary. The Craco, ghost town – Craco Ghost Town loop from Masseria Monticchio di Sotto is an 83.9 km difficult route that specifically includes this fascinating historical site.

The routes in Aliano are characterized by significant elevation gains due to the mountainous Lucanian Apennines. Many difficult routes feature over 1,000 meters of ascent. For instance, the View of Pietrapertosa – Pietrapertosa loop from Ufficio Postale Poste Italiane includes over 1,600 meters of climbing over its 64.7 km distance.