The best road cycling routes around Cittanova

Cittanova offers over 30 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with 14 classified as moderate and 14 as difficult, providing ample options for experienced cyclists. There are also 2 easy routes for those seeking a less strenuous ride.

For breathtaking views, consider the Lido Pierino Beach – View of Palmi loop from Cittanova, which offers coastal vistas towards Palmi. Another option is the Vineyard and Countryside View – Capo Vaticano loop from Cittanova, providing expansive countryside views.

Yes, Cittanova is known for its challenging terrain, especially within the Aspromonte National Park. Routes often feature significant elevation gains and passes like Passo del Mercante and Passo della Limina. The Villaggio Limina – Passo del Mercante loop from Cittanova is a difficult route covering nearly 60 km with over 1250 meters of elevation gain, perfect for experienced riders.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter the stunning Galasia Waterfall, an exciting natural spectacle within Aspromonte National Park. Cyclists also traverse the ancient beech and pine forests of the park, and routes often include passes like Passo del Mercante and The Limina Pass, which offers a gateway to the park.

The diverse terrain around Cittanova makes it enjoyable for road cycling across several seasons. For those who enjoy warmer weather and the possibility of swimming in natural pools, summer is ideal. However, spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, which can be more comfortable for tackling the significant elevation gains found on many routes.

Yes, several routes allow you to combine cycling with cultural exploration. The ancient village of Gerace is often incorporated into longer loops, offering a cultural stop. Additionally, historical churches like the Church of San Francesco can be found along routes, providing insights into the region's heritage.

The road cycling experience in Cittanova is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the mountainous terrain, the passes through ancient forests, and the stunning views of the Aspromonte National Park. The variety of routes, from moderate to difficult, is also a significant draw.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Cittanova are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Cittanova - Passo del Mercante Loop is a moderate 35.3 km circular trail.

Absolutely. The region's diverse landscape includes beautiful countryside. The Vineyard and Countryside View – Capo Vaticano loop from Cittanova is a difficult 135.4 km route that takes you through picturesque vineyards and offers expansive rural views.

Road cyclists often seek out the region's notable mountain passes. The Passo del Mercante is a frequently mentioned pass, known for connecting Cittanova and Gerace and sometimes featuring local specialty stalls. Another significant pass is Passo della Limina, which marks the top of a long descent through ancient beech woods and serves as a gateway to the Aspromonte Park.

While many routes in Cittanova are moderate to difficult due to the mountainous terrain, there are a couple of easier options. These routes provide a good starting point for beginners to enjoy the scenery without excessive challenge. For example, the Duomo di Taurianova loop from Cittanova is a moderate 35.4 km trail that can be completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes, offering a less strenuous ride through the local area.