Gambarie to Menta Reservoir Loop

The loop tour begins in Gambarie, a mountain resort located at 1,310 meters within the Aspromonte National Park. Parking is generally available in Gambarie, as it's a known starting point for various activities in the area. Specific parking lots are not detailed, but as a resort town, options should be present.

No, this route is rated as difficult for touring cyclists and requires a very good level of fitness. With approximately 910 meters (2,986 feet) of elevation gain over 40.4 kilometers, it's not recommended for beginners or family outings with young children.

The trail is predominantly paved, making it suitable for road cycling. However, some sections might be unpaved or challenging, potentially requiring you to push your bike. For similar routes in the region, gravel or mountain bikes, possibly with pedal assistance, are sometimes recommended if you anticipate encountering more difficult unpaved sections.

The tour offers several notable sights. You'll pass by the beautiful Lago del Menta and traverse the Sella Entrata Pass. Starting from Gambarie, you'll also enjoy the View from Gambarie, which offers stunning panoramas, including the Strait of Messina and the Aeolian Islands.

Yes, the route intersects with several official trails. Significant portions overlap with the Ciclovia dei Parchi della Calabria - Tappa 12, Reggio Calabria - Passo Di Orti' - Gambarie, SICAI Ciclo, and Sentiero Italia - Tappa U01. Smaller sections also touch upon (SI-C U02-B) Polsi Gambarie, Ciclovia dei Parchi della Calabria - Tappa 11, Sentiero Italia - Tappa U02, Sentiero di Basilicò, Sentiero del Brigante - Tappa 1, Percorso;Campo Sperimentale - Nino Martino, and Percorso delle Fate.

While the Aspromonte National Park generally welcomes visitors, specific regulations for dogs on cycling trails can vary. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Check local park guidelines for any specific restrictions on cycling with dogs.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public trails within Aspromonte National Park. However, it's always advisable to respect park regulations, stay on marked paths, and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

Given that Gambarie is a mountain resort and the route involves significant elevation within a national park, the best time to cycle would likely be from late spring through early autumn (May to October). This period typically offers more favorable weather conditions, avoiding snow and ice at higher elevations and extreme summer heat at lower altitudes.

For this difficult touring bicycle route, you should pack essentials like plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit for your bike (including spare tubes), appropriate cycling attire for varying mountain weather, sun protection, and a first-aid kit. A helmet is crucial, and given the potential for unpaved sections, consider tires suitable for mixed terrain if you're not on a dedicated road bike.

The tour starts and ends in Gambarie, which as a mountain resort, offers cafes and other amenities where you can refuel before and after your ride. However, the route itself traverses mountainous landscapes within Aspromonte National Park, so opportunities for cafes or shops directly along the trail, especially between Gambarie and the Menta Reservoir, might be limited. It's best to carry sufficient supplies.

The primary challenge of this loop tour lies in its significant elevation gain. With approximately 910 meters (2,986 feet) of climbing over 40.4 kilometers, it demands excellent physical fitness. The mountainous terrain and potential for some unpaved sections also contribute to its difficult rating.