Way of St. Francis: Upper Tiber Valley Loop

The estimated completion time for this 50.8-kilometer road cycling loop is around 2 hours and 15 minutes. This duration assumes a good fitness level, as it's classified as a moderate ride.

This loop is classified as a 'moderate road ride' and requires good fitness from cyclists. While mostly paved, some segments might present challenges. If you're a beginner, you might find the 430 meters of elevation gain demanding. For an easier, mostly flat alternative in the wider area, consider the Tiber Cycle Route from Città di Castello to Perugia, which is suitable for hybrid, mountain, or gravel bikes.

The terrain is primarily characterized by generally well-paved surfaces, making it ideal for road bikes. You'll experience gentle landscapes, cultivated fields, and forests. The routes around Città di Castello often feature spectacular riding on twisting roads, with a total elevation gain and loss of about 430 meters.

Starting from Città di Castello, a town known for its medieval center, you'll pass several notable spots. Highlights include the impressive Bufalini Castle in San Giustino, the charming Anghiari Medieval Town, and a scenic View of the Upper Tiber Valley from Citerna. The route also offers a chance to visit Città di Castello itself, with its historical attractions. A short, uphill detour can also take you to Montone, considered one of Italy's most beautiful villages.

Yes, this loop intersects with several other official trails for varying distances. Notably, it covers sections of the Via di Francesco in bici - Tappa N1 La Verna-Città di Castello (22%), ABT Tappa 12: Citerna - Gubbio (13%), and ABT Tappa 11: Pratovecchio Stia - Citerna (12%). You'll also find smaller segments of the Via di Francesco and Cammino di Assisi.

The Upper Tiber Valley offers beautiful countryside throughout much of the year. To enjoy the best conditions for road cycling, consider spring and early autumn when temperatures are milder and the scenery is vibrant. Summer can be warm, but the relatively civilized traffic conditions in this part of Umbria generally make for a pleasant experience.

The loop starts from Città di Castello. You should be able to find parking within or near the town center, which is a common starting point for exploring the area. Specific parking lots are not detailed, but Città di Castello is a well-established town with visitor amenities.

As this is a road cycling route, bringing dogs along is generally not recommended for their safety and comfort, especially given the distance and potential for traffic. It's best suited for cyclists without canine companions.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Upper Tiber Valley loop itself. You can freely access the roads and enjoy the scenic ride. However, individual attractions or museums in towns like Città di Castello or Montone may have their own entry fees.

Yes, starting and ending in Città di Castello, you'll find numerous options for cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. The route also passes through or near other towns and villages where you can find places to refuel or stay, such as Anghiari and Citerna. The region is known for its hospitality and local cuisine.

For this moderate road cycling loop, you should bring your road bike, appropriate cycling attire, a helmet, water bottles, and snacks. Given the distance and elevation, a basic repair kit (spare tube, pump, tire levers) is advisable. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, especially during sunnier months.