The best road cycling routes around Aprigliano

The summit of Sila, Monte Botte Donato. The small fountain is located near the refuge, close to the cable car station

Lorica, the pearl of Sila

There's a parking lot in front of the National Museum, which is a good starting point for exploring the old town. It also offers a great view of the mountains. A visit to the museum is also worthwhile.

Among the three large Calabrian lakes of the Sila, the Ampollino is certainly the least contaminated and consequently the most authentic to be appreciated by lovers of nature and landscapes.

In summer, you can take advantage of numerous cycling routes that lead through diverse landscapes - from mountain spruce forests to water areas of lakes. In winter, the area is home to the Camigliatello Silano ski resort, which attracts skiing and winter sports enthusiasts with its well-prepared facilities and picturesque location in the Sila massif. This is a place more for local skiing enthusiasts and beginners who want to combine active recreation with a vacation in the warm climate of Calabria. If you are looking for more serious skiing routes, you have to go further north in Italy or to the Alps. In Calabria, on the other hand, you will certainly appreciate nature, peace and a unique mountain climate.

The Ampollino Valley is surrounded by the mountains of the Sila massif, with clearly distinguishable peaks: Scorciavuoi (1627 m above sea level), Gariglione (1623 m above sea level), Zingomarro (1463 m above sea level) and Monte Nero (1747 m above sea level). There are extensive pine, beech and fir forests here, creating a Mediterranean mountain landscape characteristic of the region. The central element of the valley is the artificial reservoir Lago Ampollino, created by a dam (diga) on the Ampollino River. The shores of the lake are overgrown with reed beds and water lilies, and in the area you can see wild animals - deer, wild boars, waterfowl and birds of prey.

Lorica, located right on the shore of the lake, is a convenient base for trips. It is a small town with several cafes and service points where you can take a break after a ride or walk. There are also several easy and well-marked hiking trails in the area, which allow for leisurely walks in the forest or along the shore.

Lake Arvo is a natural centre of outdoor activities in the Sila National Park. Around the lake there are good quality asphalt roads, which are great for cycling - both recreational and more demanding. The routes are varied in length and difficulty, so everyone will find something for themselves. For example, the "Anello Lago Arvo" route is a classic loop recommended in local guides, recommended in spring and summer. Along the way you pass places such as: Camping Lago Arvo, the dam (Diga Nocelle), Rovale, Scarda, Pino Collito and other picturesque corners.