Appennino Bike Tour and Passo dello Scalone Loop

The tour is approximately 84.2 km (52.3 miles) long and is estimated to take around 4 hours and 40 minutes of active cycling. However, this duration can vary based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit points of interest.

This tour is classified as difficult and requires very good fitness for road cyclists. It involves significant climbs and descents, particularly around Passo dello Scalone. It is not recommended for beginners due to its challenging nature and elevation gains.

The route largely consists of paved surfaces, which is typical for a racebike tour. However, some segments in the region might be unpaved or difficult to ride, potentially requiring you to push your bike. Be prepared for varied road conditions, especially in mountainous areas.

The tour offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. You'll pass by the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, enjoy the View of the Sea at Bonifati, and see the historic Torre di Rienzo. The route also takes you over Passo dello Scalone, offering stunning mountain views within the Pollino National Park, and through Malvito, which features a medieval castle.

While the route is primarily on roads, it's generally not recommended to bring dogs on a challenging racebike tour of this nature due to the distance, speed, and potential for traffic. If you do bring a dog, ensure they are safely secured in a bike trailer and that you adhere to any local regulations, especially within the Pollino National Park.

The best time to cycle this route in Calabria is typically during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is generally milder and more pleasant for cycling, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the colder, potentially wetter conditions of winter. Always check local weather forecasts before you go.

No specific permits or entrance fees are generally required to cycle this route or to pass through the Pollino National Park on public roads. However, always respect park regulations, especially regarding waste disposal and wildlife. If you plan to venture off the main route into specific park areas, it's advisable to check for any local rules or restrictions.

As this is a ring tour starting and ending in Capo Bonifati, you can typically find parking in or around the town center or along the coast. Look for public parking areas or consult local maps for suitable spots where you can leave your vehicle for the duration of your ride. Specific parking availability may vary.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with parts of other established trails. You will find yourself on segments of the ABT Tappa 29: Orsomarso - Sant’Agata di Esaro, ABT Tappa 30: Sant’Agata di Esaro - San Benedetto Ullano, and various sections of the SICAI Ciclo, among others. This indicates it's part of a broader network of cycling routes in the region.

Given the difficulty and length, you should pack essentials like sufficient water and nutrition, a repair kit (spare tubes, pump, multi-tool), appropriate cycling attire for varying weather conditions, sun protection, and a first-aid kit. A fully charged phone with GPS capabilities is also highly recommended, as is a headlamp or bike lights if there's any chance of riding in low light.

Absolutely! The View of the Sea at Bonifati offers stunning coastal vistas. As you ascend towards Passo dello Scalone, you'll be treated to breathtaking mountain scenery within the Pollino National Park. The entire route through the Calabrian Apennines provides diverse landscapes, from quiet valleys to panoramic overlooks.