The best MTB trails around Sant'Elia A Pianisi

Let me start by saying that I did a complete tour of the lake starting from the crossroads on the state road to Tufara and then going back up towards Celenza Valfortore. As far as I'm concerned, I preferred the Apulian side to the Molise side, both for the panorama and for the "quality" of the road. I suggest turning around at the barrier (Puglia side) since at a certain point there is no practicable route. We took absurd gambles in the middle of bushes full of thorns. Furthermore, according to the operators of the barrier, you have to call the consortium and get a permit to be able to cross.

Let me start by saying that I did a complete tour of the lake. The Apulian side is more beautiful than the Molise side. I suggest turning around at the barrier as at a certain point there is no viable route. We took absurd gambles in the middle of bushes full of thorns. Furthermore, according to the operators of the barrier, you have to call the consortium and get a permit to be able to cross.

Casacalenda is a charming comune located in the Molise region of Italy. This picturesque village is characterized by narrow streets and charming alleyways, and is nestled in the surrounding hills, offering a breathtaking view of the Biferno river valley. With its ancient origins, Casacalenda is rich in history and tradition, with historical monuments and places of interest to discover. The Bosco Casale Regional Nature Reserve is one of the main attractions of the area, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the woods, trails and local fauna. An ideal place for nature lovers and for those who wish to have an authentic experience in the heart of Molise.

The Bosco Casale Regional Nature Reserve is located in the municipality of Casacalenda, Molise. It occupies two thirds of the Bosco Casale, an ancient hilly oak forest, with traces of Hannibal's camp. This protected area is characterized by Cerro, Farnetti, Biancospini and Agrifogli woods. It is home to over 110 species of birds, including birds of prey such as buzzards, honey buzzards and sparrowhawks. The Oasis offers paths, educational panels, a visitor center and various naturalistic activities. An enchanting place to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Molise nature. http://www.lipu.it/oasi-casacalenda-campobasso

Lago di Occhito is a fascinating artificial lake located in the Molise region of Italy. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and a variety of flora and fauna, it offers an ideal location for outdoor activities such as bird watching and fishing. puglia.com/celenza-valforte-e-lago-di-occhito

Sant'Elia a Pianisi is an Italian comune in Molise, with a population of 1,554 inhabitants. It is famous for a Franciscan convent dedicated to Padre Pio, who visited it in the early 1900s as a boarding school. https://www.comune.santeliaapianisi.cb.it/hh/index.php

Carlantino, a charming village in the Fortore river valley, dominates the majestic Occhito lake, one of the largest artificial reservoirs in Europe. Located in the extreme west of the province, it borders Campobasso. To the north, Mount San Giovanni adds further beauty to the landscape. https://www.provincia.foggia.it/La-Capitanata/I-Comuni-dei-Monti-Dauni/Carlantino

Celenza Valfortore, in Puglia, Italy, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and Lake Occhito. A picturesque town to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the serenity of village life. https://www.comune.celenzavalfortore.fg.it/