The best cycling routes around Ortona

Suitable for Gravel or MTB, less so for road bikes on the dirt sections

Via Verde dei Trabocchi – Cycling on the most beautiful balcony of the Adriatic Sea. If there is one cycling route you must ride in your life, it is the Via Verde dei Trabocchi. This breathtaking cycle path, over 50 kilometers long, is built on the spectacular route of a former railway line, right along the rugged coast of the Italian region of Abruzzo. Because the route is nowhere steep and is completely car-free, it is pure, carefree enjoyment for EVERY type of cyclist. You are literally cycling just a stone's throw from the lapping water. Historical, cool railway tunnels, hidden pebble coves (calette), and idyllic little harbors alternate at a dizzying pace. The absolute stars of the route are the iconic trabocchi: monumental, centuries-old wooden fishing platforms on stilts that hover like giant spiders above the turquoise sea. Once a clever invention of local fishermen, today they are the most unique seafood restaurants you will ever see.

The Trabucchi cycle path (officially known as the Via Verde dei Trabocchi) is a beautiful, largely flat cycle path over 50 kilometers long that runs along a former railway line directly along the Adriatic coast of the Italian region of Abruzzo. The path gets its name from the trabocchi (singular: trabocco): unique, monumental wooden fishing platforms on stilts that rise above the water like giant spiders.

The Trabuccho cycle path (officially known as the Via Verde dei Trabocchi) is a beautiful, largely flat cycle path over 50 kilometers long that runs along a former railway line directly along the Adriatic coast of the Italian region of Abruzzo. The path owes its name to the trabocchi (singular: trabocco): unique, monumental wooden fishing platforms on stilts that rise above the water like giant spiders.

Castello Aragonese – Historic viewpoint above the Adriatic Sea The Castello Aragonese is the impressive northern starting point of the Costa dei Trabocchi. This 15th-century fortress stands high on a steep cliff and offers you a magnificent view over the Adriatic Sea, the port of Ortona, and the coastline of the Via Verde dei Trabocchi. The massive round towers and thick fortress walls are reminiscent of a turbulent past. The castle withstood heavy fighting during World War II, after which part of the complex was lost. As if that were not enough, in 1946, a landslide caused almost half of the fortress to disappear into the sea. Today, it is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Ortona and an ideal stop during your cycling or hiking tour. The castle ruins and inner courtyard are freely accessible. A short, steep climb awaits from the port, but it is amply rewarded with beautiful panoramas. Around the castle, you will also find cozy terraces and shady benches to catch your breath.

The Trabucchi cycle path (officially known as the Via Verde dei Trabocchi) is a beautiful, largely flat cycle path over 50 kilometers long that runs along the Adriatic coast of the Italian region of Abruzzo on a former railway line. The path owes its name to the trabocchi (singular: trabocco): unique, monumental wooden fishing platforms on stilts that rise above the water like giant spiders.

Riserva Naturale Punta dell'Acquabella: a wild coastal paradise 🌿🌊 One of the absolute ecological pearls along this route is the Riserva Naturale Punta dell'Acquabella. While many coastal towns are busy and touristy, here you'll discover a hidden oasis where rugged cliffs, fragrant pine forests, and an azure sea come together perfectly. Why you should definitely stop here: 💧 Crystal clear water The name Acquabella – “beautiful water” – says it all. The sheltered bay boasts remarkably clear seawater that invites a refreshing dip. 🎨 Art along the route The reserve lies right next to the Galleria Aurelia. Just before you dive into the tunnel, you'll cycle past impressive murals by street artist Millo, a tribute to the local war resistance. 🏚️ An abandoned fishing village in the green Hidden behind the pebble beach lie the ruins of Borgo dell’Acquabella. This small fishing hamlet was abandoned in the '70s and has since been slowly reclaimed by nature. 🚴 A place made for cyclists By car, this hidden bay is barely accessible due to the narrow and steep access roads. By bike, you reach the reserve via the Via Verde and roll almost effortlessly to this unique coastal spot. A short stop that feels like a discovery: wild nature, sea views, and a piece of hidden history in one place.

The Trabucchi cycle path (officially known as the Via Verde dei Trabocchi) is a beautiful, largely flat cycle path over 50 kilometers long that runs along the Adriatic coast of the Italian region of Abruzzo on a former railway line. The path owes its name to the trabocchi (singular: trabocco): unique, monumental wooden fishing platforms on stilts that rise above the water like giant spiders.