Grand Loop of the Upper Bidente

This touring bicycle route, the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi - ring tour, typically takes around 5 hours and 4 minutes to complete. It covers a distance of approximately 46.3 kilometers.

This route is rated as difficult. It features significant elevation changes, with an ascent of nearly 1,500 meters. While some sections may be paved, you'll encounter unpaved segments and challenging climbs, requiring good fitness and potentially some technical skill, especially on forest trails.

You can expect breathtaking panoramic views stretching between Romagna and Tuscany, winding through cool, secular beech and fir woods. The landscape is dynamic, featuring ridges, historical elements like medieval villages, ancient religious buildings, and natural sights such as waterfalls. It's a truly immersive experience in one of Europe's oldest forests.

Yes, the route offers several points of interest. You'll pass by the Start of gravel road, experience the scenic Crest Trail to Casanova dell'Alpe which offers great views, and ride through the Foreste Casentinesi Singletrack.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several official trails. Notably, it covers 100% of the 'Un grandioso anello nell’Alto Bidente' and significant portions of 'La pista forestale più bella d’Italia' (20%) and 'Sentiero della Liberta'' (18%). You'll also find smaller segments of trails like 'Via Lama - Cancellino' and 'Via Lama - San Paolo in Alpe - Corniolo'.

The best time to cycle in the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona e Campigna is generally during the spring and autumn months. The weather is milder, and the forest colors are particularly vibrant. Summer can also be pleasant, especially in the cooler forest sections, but be prepared for potentially warmer temperatures.

Generally, dogs are allowed in the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona e Campigna, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Always check specific park regulations before your visit.

There is no general entrance fee to access the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona e Campigna. However, certain activities or specific areas within the park might require permits or have specific regulations. For general cycling on established routes like this ring tour, a permit is typically not required, but it's always wise to check the official park website for the most current information.

As this is a ring tour, you can typically start and end at the same location. Parking is usually available near the main access points or villages surrounding the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona e Campigna. Specific parking areas will depend on your chosen starting point for the loop. Look for designated parking lots in towns like Santa Sofia or Premilcuore, which are common entry points for cycling routes in the park.

Yes, you may find opportunities for refreshments along the route. For instance, the Ristorante La Vera Romagna is a highlight on this tour. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially given the route's difficulty and length, as services might be sparse in some of the more remote forest sections.

Given the route's difficulty and varied terrain, pack essentials like a helmet, appropriate cycling attire, plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit for your touring bicycle, and a first-aid kit. Layers of clothing are recommended due to potential temperature changes, especially when gaining elevation or cycling through dense forests. A GPS device or a fully charged phone with the route downloaded is also highly recommended.