Argomenti trattati
Picture this: the sun-drenched roads of Italy, the thrill of pedaling through breathtaking landscapes, and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. May is the month of the Giro d’Italia, an iconic cycling race that showcases the beauty of Italy from north to south. But here’s the catch: it’s not just about the competition. The Giro is an invitation to embrace cycling as a means of exploration, cultural immersion, and sustainable travel. This year, the Cycling Tourism Fair presents six exceptional cycling itineraries inspired by the 2025 Giro d’Italia, tailored for those eager to experience every turn of the pedal at their own pace.
Exploring the Ionian Salento Cycle Path
Drawing inspiration from the fourth stage of the Giro 2025, the Ionian Salento Cycle Path, affectionately dubbed “Ciclonica,” stretches over 300 kilometers from Manduria to Ugento, weaving through the stunning towns of Lecce and Gallipoli. As you ride, you’ll encounter some of the most captivating coastlines in southern Italy. Imagine gliding past sandy dunes and ancient pine forests, stopping to gaze at the pink flamingos in the Torre Colimena Nature Reserve, and exploring historic villages like Avetrana and Torre Lapillo. This route is segmented into five thematic rings, each offering unique travel experiences that highlight the local culture and natural beauty.
The path is well-marked and features numerous bike-friendly accommodations, including agriturismos and B&Bs. A dedicated app guides you to points of interest, local eateries focused on farm-to-table dining, rest areas, and GPS tracking. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just starting out, this route is accessible, with 82% on paved roads and only 18% on unpaved paths, all with minimal traffic.
Cycling in the Heart of Basilicata
As the Giro d’Italia makes its way through Basilicata, it offers cyclists two remarkable routes. The first is the urban cycle path of Matera, allowing you to explore the enchanting Sassi district at a leisurely pace. The second is the Meridiana Cycle Path, a 295-kilometer loop that traverses the Apennine Lucano National Park. This route connects 22 villages from Picerno to Latronico and is divided into two main loops – the northern and southern routes, spanning 152 kilometers and 146 kilometers, respectively.
Winding primarily along low-traffic secondary roads, this path is becoming increasingly cyclist-friendly, featuring e-bike charging stations and tourist signage. Riding here isn’t just about exercise; it’s a celebration of gentle mobility, warm hospitality, and the unspoiled mountain landscapes away from the masses. Remarkably, the route follows the ancient Via Herculia and passes through the archaeological site of Grumentum, offering a rich tapestry of history and culture.
Immersing in the Puccini Cycle Path
The tenth stage of the Giro takes us to the lush Lucchesia region in Tuscany, the birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini. The Puccini Cycle Path offers a tranquil journey through culture and nature, linking Ponte a Moriano to Lake Massaciuccoli, with a scenic route that hugs the Serchio River. This 58-kilometer path is flat and fully bike-friendly, making it perfect for families, electric bike enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and quiet.
Along the way, you’ll find various support points, charging stations, resting areas, and even interactive QR codes that let you listen to Puccini’s masterpieces. It’s a poetic and multisensory journey through historic villas, charming villages, and sprawling olive groves, where every pedal stroke resonates with musical notes.
The Treviso-Ostiglia Cycle Path: A Journey Through History
In the heart of Veneto, the Treviso-Ostiglia Cycle Path traces the route of a former military railway built between the two world wars, now transformed into a vibrant cycling track. Spanning 85 kilometers of flat, shaded, and predominantly paved paths, this route connects Treviso to Ostiglia, meandering through cultivated fields, natural areas, rural villages, and the iconic Venetian villas. This path is a family-friendly gem, safe and well-equipped with amenities like rest areas, bike parks, and rental services.
It’s a perfect illustration of urban and territorial regeneration, seamlessly blending historical remembrance with sustainability and well-being. The experience is not simply about reaching a destination; it’s about indulging in the journey itself.
Pedaling Through the Picturesque Friuli
One of the most picturesque routes in northeastern Italy, the FVG3 Pedemontana Cycle Path runs from Sacile, in the province of Pordenone, to Gorizia. This route takes you through the hills of western and eastern Friuli, past the famed Collio vineyards, charming villages, UNESCO sites, and remnants of the Great War. Imagine breathtaking panoramas as you cycle along this 180-kilometer path, which, while suitable for all, demands a bit of preparation due to some challenging inclines.
Riders can also divert to cross-border routes toward Slovenia’s Brda region, visit Hemingway’s haunts in San Martino del Carso, and cycle alongside the Isonzo River. Integrated into the FVG cycle network, this path boasts an excellent array of services for cyclists, including information points, tourist signage, and dining options. Notable stops along the way include the historical towns of Maniago, Gemona del Friuli, and Cividale del Friuli, each offering unique cultural insights.
Embracing the Journey Ahead
These six cycling itineraries exemplify how the Giro d’Italia can transform into a personal journey, turning each stage into a unique opportunity to explore the country while traveling slowly, sustainably, and authentically. The cycling paths inspired by the Giro cater to those who love to travel on two wheels, seeking not just sporting challenges but also the beauty of landscapes, the flavors of local traditions, and the joy of connecting with local communities.