Highlight • Forest
Sila National Park
Cycling
4.8
(47)
Gravel riding
3.3
(2)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Parco Nazionale della Sila
Tips
February 9, 2023
Cycling
•
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Sila National Park
5.0
(1)
4
riders
56.9km
03:50
810m
810m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle loop from San Giovanni in Fiore, taking you through the stunning Sila National Park. This difficult 35.3-mile (56.9 km) route features varied terrain, including paved roads and some unpaved, demanding sections where you might even need to push your bike. You will cycle through dense forests of larch and Calabrian pine, enjoying extensive views of the artificial Lake Arvo and the mountainous backdrop of the park. The journey involves a significant 2655 feet (809 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 49 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit for this loop tour means preparing for a demanding ride that requires a good to very good level of fitness. The terrain around Lago Arvo is often challenging, with significant ascents and descents. While many parts are on paved roads, be ready for natural paths and unpaved segments that can be rough. Starting from San Giovanni in Fiore, you will experience the diverse landscape of Calabria, so ensure your bike is suitable for mixed surfaces.
This route is notable for its location within the Sila National Park, an area celebrated for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Lago Arvo, a central feature of the tour, was created for hydroelectric power and is a hub for various water and mountain sports. The trail is also part of the broader "Ciclovia dei Parchi," an extensive cycling network connecting Calabria's main regional parks, offering a unique blend of challenging terrain, breathtaking views, and cultural points of interest.
1
riders
61.5km
04:14
1,120m
1,120m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure through the heart of Sila National Park with the Calabria Parks Cycle Route. This difficult 38.2-mile (61.5 km) loop demands stamina, featuring a significant 3662 feet (1116 metres) of elevation gain. As you pedal, you will encounter diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open mountain vistas, with high-altitude sections between Mount Charlemagne and Mount Zingomarro offering expansive views. Expect a rewarding ride that typically takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes to complete.
For your visit, San Giovanni in Fiore serves as an ideal starting point, where you will find convenient parking options. While the Ciclovia Parchi Calabria generally offers well-maintained paths, be prepared for some sections of this loop that may include unpaved or gravel roads, particularly in more remote areas. Always check local conditions before you set out, especially concerning weather in the mountainous terrain.
This route is a highlight of the Ciclovia Parchi Calabria, showcasing the unique natural environment of Sila National Park. On clear days, the elevated vantage points can even provide glimpses of both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, adding a spectacular dimension to your journey. The trail offers a deep dive into the region's wilderness, making it a notable experience for cyclists seeking a robust challenge.
1
riders
74.2km
05:08
1,330m
1,330m
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle loop tour around Lago di Cecita from San Giovanni in Fiore, covering 46.1 miles (74.2 km) with a substantial 4365 feet (1330 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging ride, typically taking 5 hours and 8 minutes, offers rewarding views of the Sila National Park, often called the "green lung of Southern Italy." You will cycle past expansive artificial Lake Cecita, surrounded by dense ancient pine forests, and might spot the charming wooden church of Campo San Lorenzo reflected in the water.
Planning your visit requires good to very good fitness levels, as the route features rolling hills, notable climbs, and descents with gradients up to 13%. While mostly paved, some segments may include unpaved sections and gravel paths, so a gravel or mountain bike, possibly with pedal assistance, is recommended. The best time to ride is from April to October, as the high altitude means the route is not recommended in winter due to snow.
This route is a significant part of the wider "Ciclovia dei Parchi della Calabria," a 545-kilometre network showcasing the region's biodiversity and cultural heritage. Lago di Cecita itself is the largest artificial lake in the region by extension, nestled within the Sila National Park, a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The area also holds archaeological importance, notably where the remains of "l'elefante del Cecita" were discovered.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,410 m
Weather
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Sunday 5 July
22°C
10°C
24 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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