The best cycling routes in Abruzzo

The endpoint by car is the large mountain square Piazzale di Campo Imperatore (2,130 meters). The breathtaking mountain road SS17bis leads you from the valley right up to the doors of the Hotel Campo Imperatore and the Astronomical Observatory. Why shouldn't you miss Campo Imperatore? Because here you are right in the middle of the high mountains without a strenuous climb. At an altitude of 2,130 meters, you are surrounded by impressive mountain peaks and begin one of the most beautiful hiking areas in the Apennines. The car journey there is an experience in itself: a winding road through the spectacular landscape of 'Little Tibet', where you often encounter horses, cows, and large flocks of sheep along the way. At the top, you will also find a unique mix of nature, history, and culture, with the historic hotel where Mussolini was imprisoned, the highest church in Italy, the astronomical observatory, and cozy food trucks where you can enjoy local specialties such as fresh pecorino and generously filled sandwiches.

The Chiesa della Madonna della Neve on Campo Imperatore is the highest consecrated church in Italy. The small stone church is located at an impressive altitude of 2,130 meters in the Gran Sasso massif, right next to the historic hotel. A special story: the praying Pope Although the church originates from the fascist regime, the best-known anecdote is connected to a man of peace: Pope John Paul II. The Polish Pope was an avid hiker and ski enthusiast. To escape the hustle and bustle of the Vatican, he regularly went incognito to the Abruzzo mountains, where he could walk, pray, and enjoy nature in peace. On June 20, 1993, he paid a discreet visit to Campo Imperatore. During that visit, he officially consecrated the Chiesa della Madonna della Neve. For the inhabitants of the region, this was a special moment, as they knew how strongly John Paul II felt connected to these mountains.

The Ciclovia Adriatica in Abruzzo (better known as Bike to Coast) is a 131-kilometer cycle path that covers the entire coastline of the Abruzzo region. The route runs from Martinsicuro (coastal border with Marche) to San Salvo (border with Molise). The route is mostly flat, mostly car-free, and crosses 19 coastal municipalities.

Interesting facts about the location: Family heirloom: this specific trabocco was built in 1887 by the Verì family. To this day, the structure is still in the hands of their great-grandchildren. Floating restaurant: Nowadays, the platform serves as a unique fish restaurant. You literally dine on a wooden platform above the waves. In the middle of the restaurant, there is even a section of transparent glass floor that allows you to see the Adriatic Sea splashing beneath your feet while you eat. Marathon lunch: If you want to eat here, you need to significantly adjust your Komoot planning. They work with an extensive fixed fish menu (approx. €60 - €70 p.p.) of no less than 11 courses. Lunch starts punctually at 1:00 PM for all guests simultaneously and lasts at least 3 hours. Plan your time and enjoy !

Imagine: the Adriatic Sea shimmering beside you, a fresh sea breeze on your face, and an endless cycle path winding along the coast. The Via Verde dei Trabocchi is one of those routes where you don't really want the ride to end. This cycle path, over 50 kilometers long and largely flat, follows a former railway line and takes you along one of the most beautiful coastal stretches of Abruzzo. Along the way, you'll pass the iconic trabocchi: impressive wooden fishing platforms that seem to float on the sea on stilts. With their long arms and nets, they stand out against the horizon like gigantic wooden works of art. Thanks to the flat course, this route is suitable for almost everyone, from recreational cyclists to avid mileage eaters. Along the way, charming beaches, atmospheric villages, and countless spots beckon where you can stop for an espresso, an ice cream, or a fresh fish lunch with a sea view. The Via Verde dei Trabocchi is not just a cycle path, but an experience that effortlessly combines nature, culture, and relaxation. A route you must cycle at least once.

Even a short stop? Absolutely worth it. At Trabocco Punta Torre, a special fishing structure from 1850, time almost seems to stand still. The enormous wooden arms, cables, and nets are still used today for traditional net fishing, exactly as it happened generations ago. What makes this place extra special is the warm welcome from manager Claudio. Passers-by and cyclists are regularly spontaneously invited to take a look. With visible enthusiasm, he explains how the ingenious system works and how the nets are lowered into the Adriatic Sea via a mechanical lifting mechanism. A short stop that not only lets you experience a piece of history but also provides an encounter that you will remember for a long time.

Nice route for walking or cycling. Sharing the path, each at their own pace. Historical context: this beautiful pine forest was planted from 1923 onwards by the visionary Luigi Corrado Filiani and even gave the town its name. Today you walk in the shade of thousands of umbrella pines, with the Adriatic Sea always nearby. A quiet and atmospheric route where nature, history and coastal experience come together perfectly.

7. Stage of the Giro on 15.05.26