The best road cycling routes around Santa Maria Del Cedro

The region offers a diverse landscape for road cycling. You'll find routes along the Tyrrhenian coast with minimal elevation gain, as well as more challenging climbs into the foothills of the Calabrian Apennines. Expect a mix of coastal roads, routes through pine forests, and scenic paths along river valleys like the Lao and Abatemarco.

Road cycling routes in Santa Maria del Cedro cater to various fitness levels. You can find easy coastal rides, such as the 'Marina di Santa Maria del Cedro – loop tour' which is 19.7 km with minimal elevation. For more experienced cyclists, there are challenging routes like From Santa Maria del Cedro to Mormanno in the Riserva Statale Valle del Fiume Lao — ring tour, which covers nearly 96 km with significant elevation gain.

Yes, there are easy options perfect for beginners or families. The new seafront promenade in Santa Maria del Cedro includes dedicated bike paths. Additionally, a segment of the EuroVelo 7, the Sun Route, offers an easy 13.5 km touring route with coastal views. For a slightly longer but still easy ride, consider the 'Marina di Santa Maria del Cedro – loop tour'.

The region is rich in history and culture. You can cycle past ancient historical structures, including Norman ruins in the Abatemarco section, and the Chiesa San Michele. Nearby, you can explore the Historic Centre of Scalea, or visit the Santa Maria del Cedro Castle. The Sanctuary of Madonna della Neve, located at 757 meters, offers panoramic views.

Many routes provide stunning coastal vistas. The Torre di Rienzo – View of the Sea at Bonifati loop from Marcellina-Verbicaro offers extensive coastal views. The 'Marina di Santa Maria del Cedro – loop tour' and the EuroVelo 7 segment also provide pleasant sea views. For a unique perspective, the Sanctuary of Madonna della Neve offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Policastro.

The Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria generally enjoys a mild climate, making spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) ideal for road cycling. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, and the scenery is vibrant. Summer can be hot, especially for longer rides, but coastal routes might offer a refreshing breeze.

Yes, for long-distance touring, Santa Maria del Cedro is an excellent starting point. The broader Calabria region offers extensive opportunities, including the 545 km 'Parks Cycle Route' that crosses three national parks (Pollino, Sila, and Aspromonte), providing unique landscapes and ancient villages. You can find more information about this route on italia.it.

Absolutely. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular From Santa Maria del Cedro to Mormanno in the Riserva Statale Valle del Fiume Lao — ring tour and the Isola di Dino – Fiuzzi Tower loop from Marcellina-Verbicaro.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 26 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from stunning coastal views to challenging mountain ascents, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in unspoiled nature on remote secondary roads.

Yes, Santa Maria del Cedro is part of the 'Riviera dei Cedri,' named after the citron fruit. You can visit the Museo del Cedro, dedicated to this famous local fruit, to learn about its cultivation and the region's traditions. This offers a unique cultural insight alongside your cycling adventures.

There are over 40 road cycling routes available around Santa Maria del Cedro on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 3 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 20 difficult routes.

Several charming towns and villages are accessible by bike. Diamante is known for its vibrant murals, and Scalea is a medieval village with a historic center. You could also explore the ruins of ancient Laos, once a significant Greek city, or cycle towards Grisolia to experience more of the local character.