Pantalica Necropolis Loop

This ring route is classified as a "hard" mountain bike ride, demanding good fitness and advanced riding skills. Riders should be prepared for portions that may require pushing their bike due to challenging technical sections, rated between STS S3 and S6.

The route features a diverse mix of surfaces. You'll encounter significant stretches of asphalt (19.6 km), gravel (8.33 km), unpaved sections (3.10 km), and natural paths (2.23 km). Be prepared for varied conditions throughout the ride.

The trail offers a rich blend of natural beauty and ancient history. You'll pass through the rocky necropolis of Pantalica with over 5,000 ancient tombs, and enjoy Rocky Views of the Sicilian Hinterland. Other notable features include the deep gorges carved by the Anapo River, the Calcinara Stream, and the impressive Anaktoron of Pantalica. You might also spot ancient Greek theater ruins and Byzantine-era rock churches.

While the specific starting point for this komoot tour is not detailed, the Pantalica Oriented Nature Reserve has multiple access points. Common starting points for routes in the area include near Ferla or Sortino, where you can typically find parking facilities. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for designated parking areas.

The Pantalica Oriented Nature Reserve, Valle dell'Anapo e Torrente Cava Grande, generally does not require specific permits or charge an entrance fee for accessing its trails for activities like mountain biking. However, it's always good practice to check the official reserve website or local information centers for any updated regulations before your visit.

The Pantalica Oriented Nature Reserve typically allows dogs on its trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the local wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

The best time to mountain bike the Pantalica ring route is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is milder, making for more comfortable riding conditions and allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty without the intense heat of summer.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other official trails. You will ride along parts of the Antica Trasversale Sicula, Ferla - Sella Filipporto, Anello Pedagaggi-Anapo-Ferla, Serramenzana, Sortino - Pantalica Var. A, Sortino - Pantalica Var. B, Paolo Orsi, Bisanti, and the Sentiero ciclopedonale Giarranauti.

This mountain bike route is estimated to take approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes to complete. However, this duration can vary significantly based on your fitness level, riding speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the numerous historical and natural sights along the way.

The reserve is home to diverse fauna, including various mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. The presence of the macrostigma trout in the rivers is a good indicator of excellent water quality. Keep an eye out for local species as you traverse the route.

While the reserve itself is a natural area, the nearby towns of Ferla and Sortino, which serve as common access points, offer various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. It's recommended to stock up on supplies before entering the reserve.