4.5
(20)
1,113
riders
32
rides
Road cycling around Polistena offers diverse terrain, from the hilly landscapes surrounding the town to the expansive Plain of Gioia Tauro. The region provides access to challenging mountain passes and scenic routes within the Aspromonte National Park. Cyclists can explore varied gradients directly from Polistena, with routes extending towards the Jerapotamo Stream and Vacale River. This area is characterized by its blend of demanding climbs and less strenuous sections, suitable for different road cycling preferences.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
18
riders
66.2km
03:01
740m
730m
This moderate 41.1-mile road cycling loop from Polistena offers scenic views of the Calabrian coast and the Messina Strait.
11
riders
84.3km
04:29
1,510m
1,510m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Sign up for free
5
riders
35.6km
01:33
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
30
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
24
riders
96.4km
05:16
1,960m
1,960m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Polistena
The beach of Nicotera Marina is one of the most beautiful on the Costa degli Dei, located in the gulf of the same name and composed mainly of fine white sand. The seabed of this stretch of sea is shallow and allows safe bathing even for the little ones.
0
0
On the Passo del Mercante, my father told me, that my grandfather met my grandmother. My grandfather was a young woodcutter who climbed the pass from Cittanova; and my grandmother was a shepherdess from Canalo Vecchio. They met by chance, and immediately argued: it seems that she didn't like the woodcutters, because they were too noisy and scared the cattle... But my grandfather, evidently made the difference, "maybe he was cute and she was very beautiful" and after the argument they made peace and fell in love.... Every time I'm in the area, I always go to the Pass to greet the memory of my grandfather 👴 and my grandmother👵 😊👋👋
2
0
Beautiful church with a large panoramic square.
0
0
Mandatory stop at the stall, for a sandwich, a glass of wine, a dessert or a coffee. The owner is very nice.
1
0
There are several scattered along this stretch of highway. Probably dating back to World War II. It is possible to access it but I didn't.
0
0
Place of great silence and solitude. During a half-hour stop not a living soul passed by.
1
0
Mandatory stop at the Zomaro crossroads stall. The lady's sandwiches are famous throughout Aspromonte, exceptional!
0
0
Mammola is nestled between Aspromonte and the Calabrian Serre, characterized by paths that climb uphill or plunge downhill, offering breathtaking views. The historic center, with its ancient streets and architecture, offers a suggestive view and testifies to the rich history and tradition of the town.
0
0
There are over 25 road cycling routes around Polistena, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include routes through the hilly terrain surrounding the town, the Plain of Gioia Tauro, and into the Aspromonte National Park.
Yes, Polistena is an excellent base for challenging rides. Routes often include significant elevation changes and mountain passes like the Passo del Mercante and Limina Pass. For instance, the route Passo del Mercante – Gerace Historic Village loop from Polistena is a difficult option, featuring nearly 2000 meters of elevation gain.
Road cycling around Polistena offers diverse scenery, from the coastal views along the Tyrrhenian Sea to the lush beech woods and varied landscapes of the Aspromonte National Park. You'll also encounter routes through the Plain of Gioia Tauro and the hilly terrain directly surrounding Polistena.
Yes, there are easier options available. The region offers less strenuous routes through the surrounding plain and areas between the Jerapotamo Stream and Vacale River. An example of an easy route is the San Martino di Taurianova from Polistena – loop tour, which is a shorter ride through local countryside.
Cyclists can explore several points of interest. The Passo del Mercante and Limina Pass are significant mountain passes. You can also visit the historic medieval city of Gerace or the ruins of San Giorgio Morgeto Castle, which offers panoramic views.
Yes, Polistena offers several loop tours. The San Martino di Taurianova from Polistena – loop tour is a popular option. Another is the Vineyard and Countryside View – Nicotera Marina Beachfront loop from Polistena, which takes you towards the coast.
The region's climate generally allows for cycling through much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the diverse landscapes, including mountain passes and coastal routes. Summer can be warm, especially in the plains, while winter might be suitable for lower elevation routes.
Absolutely. Polistena serves as a gateway to the Aspromonte National Park, providing access to routes with significant elevation changes and natural beauty. A notable route is From Polistena to Santa Cristina d'Aspromonte in the Aspromonte National Park, offering an immersive experience within the park's varied landscapes.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, which includes both challenging mountain passes and scenic routes through historic and natural settings, providing options for various ability levels.
Yes, some routes extend towards the coast, providing beautiful sea views. For example, the Palmi and Gioia Tauro route connects coastal towns and offers views of the plain and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Yes, you can find routes that traverse the local countryside and offer views of vineyards. The Vineyard and Countryside View – Nicotera Marina Beachfront loop from Polistena is an example of a route that combines these elements with coastal scenery.


Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.