Highlight • Settlement
Cycling
5.0
(17)
Road cycling
5.0
(6)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
April 18, 2022
Cycling
May 2, 2022
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October 8, 2024
Cycling

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Pietrapertosa

32
riders
60.9km
04:47
1,750m
1,750m
Embark on a difficult touring cycling adventure through the Parco Regionale Gallipoli Cognato Piccole Dolomiti Lucane. This challenging route covers 37.8 miles (60.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 5734 feet (1748 metres), taking approximately 4 hours and 47 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you will experience wild panoramas and pass through charming villages like Pietrapertosa, dramatically set against dark cliffs, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and history.
To prepare for this ride, remember that the route's elevation ranges between 320 and 3,900 feet (100 and 1,200 metres) above sea level, so pack clothing suitable for potential temperature changes. While mostly paved, be ready for sections with cobblestones and unpaved paths; a touring bicycle with good gears and tires for uneven asphalt is highly recommended. You can find convenient parking in Oliveto Lucano to begin your journey.
This route is notable for its striking resemblance to the famous Dolomites of northern Italy, with craggy peaks shaped by karstic erosion. You will encounter unique geological formations often referred to as "the Giants emerged from the sea," and near Aliano, you can observe the spectacular cracks in the ground known as the Calanchi or badlands, adding a distinct character to the landscape.

5.0
(5)
32
riders
39.5km
03:02
1,030m
1,030m
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle loop from Campomaggiore to Pietrapertosa and Castelmezzano, a journey through the dramatic Lucanian Dolomites. This route spans 24.5 miles (39.5 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 3373 feet (1028 metres), typically taking you around 3 hours and 1 minute to complete. You will cycle amidst craggy sandstone peaks and deep valleys, with consistently excellent views of the Dolomites, especially as you approach Castelmezzano. The trail includes steep climbs and descents, with some slopes rising to about 9% between Pietrapertosa and Campomaggiore, offering a challenging but rewarding experience.
This hard bike ride requires very good fitness levels due to its steep climbs and descents. While mostly paved, be aware that some segments may be unpaved and difficult to navigate, potentially requiring you to dismount and push your bike. Prepare for substantial elevation changes throughout the loop, ensuring you are in excellent physical condition for this demanding tour.
This loop connects the charming villages of Campomaggiore, Pietrapertosa, and Castelmezzano, all nestled dramatically within the Lucanian Dolomites. Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa are particularly noted for their beauty, with Castelmezzano recognized by The Telegraph and Pietrapertosa by CNN as among Italy's most beautiful villages. The entire area is part of a protected park, providing an unspoiled natural backdrop for your ride, and the region is also known for the thrilling “Flight of the Angel” zipline between the two villages.

5.0
(1)
28
riders
49.2km
03:52
1,370m
1,370m
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle ring tour through the Parco Regionale Gallipoli Cognato Piccole Dolomiti Lucane, a challenging ride spanning 30.6 miles (49.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 4484 feet (1367 metres). This route, which typically takes around 3 hours and 51 minutes to complete, immerses you in dramatic landscapes featuring ancient rock formations often compared to the Dolomites of northern Italy. You will cycle through dense woods and mountain passes, encountering spectacular spires and jagged peaks. The trail also offers views of picturesque villages like Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, built directly into the rock, adding a touch of historic charm to the wild panoramas. Be prepared for some segments where you might need to push your bike due to the demanding terrain.
This difficult touring bicycle route demands a very good level of fitness, as it features substantial elevation gains and challenging terrain. While much of the path is paved, expect some unpaved sections, cobblestones, and uneven asphalt, so a touring bike equipped with good gears and suitable tires is highly recommended. You might even find yourself needing to push your bike on certain demanding segments. The area offers minimal traffic, making it ideal for exploration by bike, but always check local conditions before you set out.
The region's unique geology, often called the "Piccole Dolomiti Lucane" or Little Lucanian Dolomites, provides a dramatic backdrop with ancient rock formations sometimes referred to as "the Giants emerged from the sea". Beyond the natural beauty, the route connects you to charming historic villages like Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, which are considered among Italy's most beautiful and are integral to the region's cultural landscape. This trail is also part of larger cycling initiatives, including the extensive "Ring of the Parks of Lucania", highlighting its significance within Basilicata's network of natural parks.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,000 m
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Thursday 23 July
21°C
13°C
12 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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