Cerchiara - Plataci - Villapiana Loop

This challenging racebike tour, covering approximately 73 km with over 1600 meters of elevation gain, typically takes around 4.5 hours to complete. However, your actual time may vary depending on your fitness level and how long you spend enjoying the views and highlights.

No, this tour is classified as 'difficult' and is not suitable for beginners. It involves significant climbs, including a demanding ascent to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Armi with an average gradient of 4% and 23 hairpin turns, making it best suited for experienced road cyclists.

Yes, as the name suggests, 'From Villapiana to the Santuario Santa Maria delle Armi — ring tour' is a loop tour, starting and ending in Villapiana.

While specific parking areas for this exact route are not detailed, Villapiana is a town with various public parking options. It's advisable to look for parking near the town center or residential areas where you can safely leave your vehicle for the duration of your ride.

Expect a challenging and varied terrain typical of Calabria's hilly and mountainous landscape. The route features significant climbs and descents, including long uphill sections with hairpin turns, particularly on the ascent to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Armi. Roads in the hinterland are generally paved but can be winding.

The tour offers diverse and stunning scenery. You'll cycle through the rugged natural beauty of the Parco Nazionale del Pollino, experiencing winding roads, Mediterranean scents, thick woodlands, and charming ancient villages. A major highlight is the panoramic View of the Gulf from Parco Nazionale del Pollino, overlooking the Sibari Plain and the Gulf of Taranto.

Key highlights include the town of Cerchiara di Calabria, the unique Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Armi carved into the rock, and breathtaking panoramic views, especially the View of the Gulf from Parco Nazionale del Pollino.

While primarily a road cycling route, sections of this tour briefly coincide with or cross official paths such as Sentiero del Pellegrino, Sentiero del Sellaro, and Sentiero dell'Annanza, among others. However, these are very small percentages of the overall route.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are milder and the scenery is vibrant. Summer can be very hot, especially in the lower elevations, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential for adverse weather in the mountains.

Given that this is a demanding racebike tour on public roads and through mountainous terrain, it is generally not suitable for cycling with dogs. The focus is on speed and endurance, and the conditions are not ideal for pets.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public roads within the Parco Nazionale del Pollino. However, always respect local regulations, especially concerning protected areas, and ensure you leave no trace.

For this difficult racebike tour, bring appropriate road cycling gear, including a well-maintained racebike, helmet, cycling shorts, and layers of clothing suitable for varying elevations and potential weather changes. Carry sufficient water, energy snacks, a repair kit, and a fully charged phone. Given the significant climbs and descents, reliable brakes are essential.