Antica Ferrovia Spoleto - Norcia - giro ad anello

Embark on a challenging mountain biking adventure along the Antica Ferrovia Spoleto - Norcia - giro ad anello. This difficult 61.3-mile (98.7 km) loop takes about 7 hours and 20 minutes to complete, climbing 5482 feet (1671 metres) through diverse terrain. You'll navigate off-road sections, asphalt, and unpaved paths, requiring a robust mountain bike. The route is celebrated for its "alpine section" with impressive viaducts and numerous tunnels carved into the rock, offering an adventurous feel. As you ride, you'll pass through the verdant landscapes of the Sibillini Mountains National Park and picturesque villages like Vallo di Nera, recognized as one of Italy's most beautiful. Remember to bring a powerful headlamp for the long, unlit tunnels, some of which have challenging surfaces with small stones.

To tackle this demanding route, good training and advanced riding skills are essential. While the trail is generally not overly demanding, some tunnel sections, particularly between Sant'Anatolia and Caprareccia, can have difficult surfaces due to small stones. A robust mountain bike is highly recommended for the varied terrain. The trail is primarily off-road but includes sections of asphalt, unpaved paths, natural surfaces, and some paved areas. Plan your visit carefully, especially considering the need for a powerful headlamp to navigate the unlit tunnels safely.

This unique trail transforms a historic narrow-gauge electric railway line, which operated from 1926 until 1968, into a compelling cycling route. Known as a "masterpiece of railway engineering" and even a "small Umbrian Gotthard," it features significant gradients, viaducts, and tunnels that showcase its fascinating past. The conversion into a cycling and walking path earned it the Italian Green Road Award in 2015, recognizing it as Italy's Best Greenway. This blend of historical infrastructure and natural splendor makes it a truly memorable experience for mountain biking enthusiasts.