Cycling along the Adriatic Coast.

from the Adriatic 16 itineraries to the -RomagnaApennines

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Bike People

Someone’s going slowly along a road by a canal. On a bike of course. There can be no doubt that we’re in Romagna, and the image is the classic one made fa- mous by the films of Zavattini and Fellini. No official statistics exist on how many bikes there are in this region, for the simple reason that everybody goes by bike. It’s no coincidence that a lot of cycling champions come from around here. There are physical, cultural and organisational factors, over and above the economic ones, that make this territory especially suited to cyclists. First of all the variety of routes: in the space of a few miles you go from flatlands to hills and mountains, so bike enthusiasts can choose a whole day trip or a few hours’ spin. For some years now, particularly in spring, thousands and thousands of bike lovers and specialists have chosen the Adriatic Coast of Emilia Romagna as a competi- tion training ground. Professionals, amateurs and beginners find the right pedalling conditions in this area. The numerous cycling tour events organised here and the cycling schools held by expert professionals offer the chance to select a sports holiday at any time of the year. Many operators are specialised in the cycling field and their hotels are equip- ped with bicycle sheds, small workshops and menus suited to cyclists, as well as informative material about the various routes. With this guide and its sixteen bike itineraries from the Adriatic to the Apennines across the provinces of , , Forlì- and , the Unione Co- sta wants to offer its old and new guests an increasingly rich way of holidaymaking. What else? All that remains is to wish you a pleasant stay on the Adriatic Coast.

Andrea Corsini president

Antonio Carasso project co-ordinator www.adriacoast.com The touristic website of Adriatic Coast of Emilia Romagna with all the localities, events and holiday offers and where to book. Index

In the In the land of the D’Este family 04 Itineraries 1 Trip through the Comacchio lagoons 06 2 Cycling through history 08 3 Right bank of the river Po 10 4 Balanced between land and water 12

In the Province of Ravenna Pedalling among Byzantine treasures 14 Itineraries 5 A plunge into the hinterland 16 6 Tour for connoisseurs 18 7 A thousand metres up 20 8 Gran Fondo del sale 22

In the Province of Forlì-Cesena Charming villages and enchanted hills 24 Itineraries 9 Nove Colli 26 10 Towards the Apennine ridges 28 11 60 kilometres of exciting ups and downs 30 12 Flat start and immediate ascent 32

In the A land of noble history 34 Itineraries 13 The Romagna hills route 36 14 Mini Nove Colli 38 15 Valconca, the Malatesta fortresses 40 16 Valmarecchia, the Malatesta Seigniory 42

Ferrara In the land of the D’Este family

What to see The Beautiful Information and the Good IN THE FERRARA AREA Powerful and Splendid Ren- Decorated ceramics, the Ruote Panoramiche THE BICYCLE HAS ALWAYS aissance Ferrara carvings and the wooden Percorsi cicloturistici dal Ferrara has a fascinating town- sculptures are the most popu- sapore estense BEEN LINKED WITH WORK, plan and is a splendid city of lar craft items, but also objects Languages: Italian, German TRANSPORT, SOCIALISING medieval and renaissance art. made of wrought iron, cop- Information: Province of AND LEISURE. THE FLAT In Piazza della Cattedrale, the per and pewter are also very Ferrara pulsating heart of political and interesting. As for , in Fer- Tel. +39 0532 299 303 COUNTRYSIDE CUT BY religious life in the times of the rara there is a happy marriage [email protected] WATERWAYS INVITES YOU TO D’Este family, are the Archie- of aristocratic and popular cui- www.ferrarabike.com TRAVEL. piscopal Palace and the Town sine, starting with the salama Hall, built in 1243 as the dukes’ da sugo of Renaissance tra- YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A residence. Building of the Cas- dition, a kind of pork sausage CHAMPION TO GO CYCLING IN tello Estense in the adjacent much loved by Lucrezia Borgia, THE PROVINCE OF FERRARA. piazza was begun in 1385. The and going on to pasticcio of THERE ARE NEITHER HILLS NOR with its magnificent , cappellacci with Romanesque-Gothic façade pumpkin and the spice cake MOUNTAINS. THE LANDSCAPE stands almost opposite the called pampepato. FEATURES A WIDE AND Town Hall. The main portal is As for river and sea fare, the FERTILE PLAIN, ONCE LARGELY very beautiful with a bas- eels of Comacchio are cel- depicting St. George on horse- ebrated by gourmets and COVERED WITH WATER AND back piercing the dragon. One should be washed down with 2 CONQUERED BY MAN IN THE of the most celebrated build- the red “wine of the sands”, the COURSE OF EXTENSIVE LAND ings of the Bosco Eliceo DOC. Bread too is the 15th century Palazzo dei is special in the Ferrara area RECLAMATION WORKS. YOU Diamanti, so called because of (cornetto, ciupèta, ricciolina), PEDAL SLOWLY THROUGH A the diamond point stone facing to be enjoyed all day long, from ENVIRONMENT OF CULTIVATED devised by Biagio Rossetti. To- breakfast to lunch, with aperitifs day the palazzo is the prestig- and obviously at dinner. An ex- FIELDS, RURAL HOUSES, ious home of the National Pic- cellent and fragrant companion ARISTOCRATIC VILLAS, ture Gallery and the Gallery for the cured meats of Ferrara CASTLES, FORTRESSES AND of Modern Art. Also notewor- and other local produce. thy are Biagio Rossetti’s Pal- A NETWORK OF RIVERS AND azzo Costabili, home to the 3 CANALS REIGNED OVER BY THE Archaeology Museum, and the GREAT RIVER PO. , marvel- lously frescoed by Cossa and by Ercole de’ Roberti.

1. Po Delta Park, eels 2. Comacchio 3. Ferrara, Estense Castle 1 4. Ferrara, Cathedral 4

4 Festivals and Fairs

May › Mesola › Asparagus Fair The sandy soil of the Po Delta is ideal for green asparagus. During the fair it will be possible to buy fresh asparagus or taste a wide variety of dishes at the gastronomy stands.

May › Berra › World Hop Shoot Fair With the rediscovery of the refined aroma of this shrub (a spring shoot of Humulus Lupus with a taste similar to asparagus) the fair aims at spreading awareness of the simple things of the past.

May / June › Gorino › Fish Fair The fair celebrates the main gastronomic resource of the area. There are stands where you can taste grey mullet, gilthead, sea-bass and other fish-based specialities. (Info: Tel. +39 0533 995 030 – 995 355)

May / June › Guarda, Ro Ferrarese › Salama da Tai Fair Star of this gastronomic event is the salama da tai (slicing sausage), a rich tasting charcuterie item with a characteristic aroma. It is produced by craftspeople in accordance with the old methods of local tradition.

June › Goro › Clam Fair Dishes prepared to ancient recipes of the seafaring tradition offer the chance to discover one of the most characteristic products of the whole Adriatic coast: wild clams.

AUGUST › San Giuseppe, Comacchio › Bosco Eliceo Wine Festival The cultivation of the golden grape has ancient origins. The land in this area, being characterised by traces of salt, gives the wine those organoleptic characteristics that make it one of the few red wines suitable for serving with fish. The festival offers a splendid opportunity to taste the “wines of the sands” with typical local dishes.

October › Comacchio › Eel Fair Thanks to this fair, thousands of tourist can follow an itinerary between valleys and lagoons rich with antique flavours and curiosities. It will be delightful to stroll amongst the bridges and The holiday offers are available canals of this lagoon town, decorated especially for the occasion, www.adriacoast.com listening to live music and enjoying the unmistakable aroma of eel prepared and served in a variety of ways, from starters to side dishes.

October › Bondeno, Panarea › Bread Festival The festival intends to relaunch the excellent quality of both soft wheat and Ferrara bread. All visitors will be invited to “The Bread Village” where they can taste different oven-baked specialities.

Info: IAT Centro Unificato di FerraraT el. +39 0532 299 303

5 Ferrara

ITINERARY 1 Trip through the Comacchio Lagoons

Not to be missed

Nature-Historical itinerary FROM PORTO GARIBALDI TO ANITA’S MEMORIAL STONE: THE NAMES ARE ENOUGH IN THEMSELVES of the Comacchio Lagoons TO TRANSMIT THE ATMOSPHERE OF THIS TRIP WHICH EVOKES THE HEROIC GESTURES OF THE HERO Guided excursions leave from Casone Foce, just a few kilo- OF TWO WORLDS AND HIS PASSIONATE LOVE FOR HIS WIFE. THE TWO OF THEM, FLEEING FROM metres south of Comacchio. WHERE THE REPUBLIC HAD FALLEN, WERE TRYING TO ESCAPE THE AUSTRIAN- PAPAL TROOPS On foot or by boat you can AND REACH THE REPUBLIC OF VENICE. follow an itinerary suspended between land and water in a BUT ANITA, WORN OUT BY HARDSHIP, DIED IN THE COMACCHIO LAGOONS. GARIBALDI AND HIS MEN richly evocative environment. NEVER MADE IT TO VENICE BUT TOOK REFUGE IN SAN MARINO. Over and above the flora and fauna typical of the Po Del- ta Park you will also see and admire the “Casoni” fishing A stop in Comacchio is a houses and the typical traps must “lavorieri” for catching eels. The first leg is from Porto Garibaldi to Comacchio, a fine (Info: Tel. lagoon town characterised by IAT +39 0533 314 154) bridges and canals, a pleasant place to take a break in a unique atmosphere. From Comacchio you will head towards Ostel- lato, home to the Vallette na- ture reserve, and after a few kilometres, turning right onto the flyover and then travelling southwards, you will follow the signs for Anita and the nature- historical route of the lagoons. The route touches on the very important archaeological area of the Greco-Etruscan town of Spina. The residential area – on which excavation work is still in progress – is not open to visi- 2 tors, but valuable finds can be admired in the Archaeology Mu- seum in Ferrara. After this detour you return to Comacchio Lagoons to the the Argine Agosta and arrive at south and offers an unforgettable Great view over the lagoons the Valle Zavelea nature reserve, natural view. From here it is also Leaving the Spina area and a freshwater zone inhabited by possible to admire the peninsula heading towards Anita you take the avocet and the white heron. of Boscoforte, a narrow strip of the road of the Argine Agosta, Slightly farther on, a stupendous land that winds between the wa- the first stretch of which divides view opens up over the Comac- ters of the valleys and a reserve two reclaimed marshlands: the chio Lagoons, one of the most for numerous species of birds. Valle Pega and the Valle del important lagoon areas in . From here, crossing the river Mezzano. Reno on the ferry, you arrive in Balancing on the Argine Ago- Sant’Alberto in the province of Leaving the Argine Agosta sta Ravenna. Continuing eastwards, and taking the Fiume road you The road is straight for another near the intersection with the Ro- come to an interesting archaeo- 9 kilometres, balanced between mea state road, you will find on logical site: the remains of the the lagoon on the left and the the left the Guiccioli farm where Parish of Santa Maria surrounding canal on the right. Anita Garibaldi died on 4th Au- in Padovetere, built in the 6th Continuing towards Anita you gust 1849. Slightly farther ahead century. will come to the bank of the is the Memorial Stone, inaugu- 1 River Reno, which frames the rated on 9th August 1896.

6 3 m Porto Garibaldi Fattibello 1 m Valle di Comacchio 2 m Valli 3 m Cippo di Anita

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 42

Departure: Porto Garibaldi Arrival: Anita Garibaldi Memorial Stone Distance: 42 Km Degree of difficulty: low Maximum altitude: 3 m. Duration: roughly 1h1 /2

S S309

3 4

1./2./5. Comacchio, Trepponti bridge 3. Comacchio 4. Comacchio Lagoons Reno S. Alberto

5 Ferrara

ITINERARY 2 Cycling through history

Not to be missed

Voghiera and Voghenza, a A ROUTE, STARTING IN FERRARA AND FOLLOWING THE WINDING COURSE OF THE PO DI PRIMARO nucleus with a very ancient FOR ABOUT HALFWAY BEFORE HEADING FOR ARGENTA AND THE SURROUNDING NATURE RESERVES. heart Voghiera and Voghenza, a nu- A HIGHLY ENJOYABLE SPIN AMID RURAL ARCHITECTURES, ANCIENT PARISH CHURCHES AND cleus with a very ancient heart ARISTOCRATIC VILLAS THAT TAKES YOU TO THE SOUTHERNMOST PART OF THE PROVINCE WHERE Not far from the Po di Primaro, THERE WERE ONCE A GREAT NUMBER OF SWAMPS. Voghiera is spread out around the grandiose D’Este palazzo of Belriguardo. The palazzo now houses the Archaeologi- cal Museum which contains steles, sarcophagi, tombs and objects accompanying the San Luca, the miracle village dead, found in the Roman bu- You leave Ferrara by way of rial ground of Voghenza. Vo- Borgo San Luca whose Ba- ghenza itself is practically next roque style Sanctuary con- to Voghiera and has an impor- tains an ancient crucifix held tant archaeological area where to be miraculous. You follow excavations and the Roman the course of the river, pedal- burial ground can be visited. ling in open country, and near Sant’Egidio you come to the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin (Info: Tel. di Voghiera of Poggetto. +39 0532 328 500 – 328 511) After a few kilometres you reach Marrara from which, with a de- tour of 9 kilometres in the direc- tion of San Bartolomeo in Bo- sco, you can visit the Farming World Documentation Centre (Info tel. 0532 725 294), which bears witness to life and work in the countryside from the late 19th century through the first 2 half of the 20th century.

After returning to the main past remains, such as the 7th an extraordinary number of road, you will soon reach San century Parish Church of San birds and animals. Nicolò and, beyond the village Giorgio with its portal dating A visit to the Museo delle Valli, of Bova, the route continues to 1122, decorated with rep- housed in the Casino di Cam- along the left of the Po di Pri- resentations of the months and potto, which provides a perfect maro to Ospital Monacale and of work in the fields. Also worth historical-naturalistic picture of Traghetto, where you climb seeing is the former Church the Argenta territory, is highly the bank of the Reno river, cy- of San Domenico which now recommended. cling along it to the cycle bridge houses the Municipal Picture (Info tel. 0532 808 058) across the river. At this point, Gallery. following the road at the bot- tom of the bank, you will come In the lagoons, magical na- to Argenta. ture oases If you like you can continue Argenta, the rural spirit also from Argenta to the nature re- 1. Pomposa, Abbey in art serves of the Valli di Argenta 2. Ferrare, Estense Castle Argenta has been almost en- and Marmorta, with stretches 3. Ferrare, palio tirely rebuilt after the Second of water surrounded by dense 4. Po Delta Park 1 World War . But some of its vegetation and populated by 5. Comacchio Lagoons

8 3 m Ferrara 1 m Fossanova 1 m Marrara 2 m Consandolo 2 m Boccaleone 3 m Argenta

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 42

Departure: Ferrara Arrival: Argenta Distance: 42 Km Degree of difficulty: low Maximum altitude: - Duration:roughly 1h 1/2

3 4

Bova

Ospital Monacale

Oasi Traghetto

5 Ferrara

ITINERARY 3 Right bank of the river Po

Not to be missed

Pomposa Abbey, place of THE ROUTE RUNS ALONG THE RIGHT BANK OF THE PO, THE LONG BOUNDARY LINE WHICH AT THE the spirit BEGINNING DIVIDES FERRARA TERRITORY FROM LOMBARDY AND THEN, PROCEEDING TOWARDS THE , in the flat- land of the Po Delta, is a mo- ADRIATIC, FROM VENETO TERRITORY. THE GREAT RIVER IS A CONSTANT TRAVELLING COMPANION, nastic nucleus which after the WITH ITS HISTORY, ITS TALES, ITS CUSTOMS AND GREAT PLAINS. year 1000 became one of the most important spiritual and cultural centres in Italy. Here lived Guido da Pomposa, bet- ter known as Guido d’Arezzo, inventor of the modern system of transcribing music. What has come down to us of the Departure in the lee of the watercourse, the Cavo Napo- original Abbey includes the Rocca Possente Fortress leonico, created at Napoleon’s Palazzo della Ragione, the The starting point is Stellata on behest to link the river Po and church, the Chapter House, the north-west boundary of the the river Reno: one of the many the Refectory and the splendid province of Ferrara where the interventions on the waterway bell-tower. Thanks to its fres- countryside meets the river as network of the zone. coes, the complex is a master- it flows in from territory. piece of Romanesque art. Stellata takes its name from the Before the “Delta Gate” star-shaped plan of the Rocca At Pontelagoscuro, after about (Info: Tel. +39 IAT 0533 719 Possente fortress, built in 1362 a 27 kilometre run, in the mid- 110) by Niccolò II D’Este for greater dle of the river you can see Isola river traffic security. From Stel- Bianca, today a fauna reserve. lata you head towards Bonde- This is also the point closest no, temporarily leaving the to Ferrara city centre, which is main river bank and following only six kilometres away. the Panaro river. After Bonde- Then the river moves away from no you rejoin the right bank of the city, touching the villages the Po river and pass another of Fossadalbero, Zocca, Ro

1. Stellata 3. Mesola, the Castle 2. Ferrare, Estense Castle 4. Gorino 2

1

10 3 m Stellata 1 m Bondeno 1 m Ro 3 m Berra 2 m Mesola 2 m Gorino

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 3035 40 45 50 55 60 6570 75 80 8590 95 100 105 110 115 120 125

Departure: Stellata Arrival: Gorino Distance: 125 Km Degree of difficulty: medium Maximum altitude: - Duration: 4/5 hours

with the famous mill on the Po, nalled for the blind and sight- and evolution of the Po Valley There are also guided tours. Guarda, Berra and Serrav- impaired. Guided tours are territory as well as the flora and (Info tel. + 39 0533 993 358) alle. The Po splits up precisely organised occasionally. fauna of an area that is unique at Serravalle and this is why the of its kind and with a specific Goro, a “mobile town” latter is also called the Delta Mesola Castle, Delizia Estense section dedicated to the Deer You’re almost at the end of Gate: one branch goes north You can now see the sea. of the Dunes. the trip and the waters of the towards Venice and one runs Mesola welcomes you with After Mesola the course of the Po mingle with those of the south, taking the name of Po its Castle that overlooks the river alters southwards. It is : here you are in di Goro. In this area there is a river, one of the so-called Deli- worth stopping for a visit to the Goro whose history is closely mooring place for small pleas- zie Estensi, built by the D’Este 17 th century Torre dell’Abate, bound to the waters on which ure craft that are used for silu- family for pleasure and enter- one of the many works built to it stands. The town already ex- rus fishing. After about fifteen tainment. It dates to the end regulate the flow of the water. isted in the Middle Ages but the kilometres following the Po of the 16 th century and was Equally worthy of attention is ceaseless movement of the Po you come to the Fossil Dunes used as a lodge by the dukes the Mesola Wood, more than Delta led to the founding in the of Massenzatica, an ancient when they went hunting in the a thousand hectares of nature 18 th century of a new Goro in sandbars dating to the second Mesola Wood. The Castle is reserve and habitat of the Dune a better position. The terminus millennium before Christ. now the headquarters of the Deer, residual evidence of the is Gorino, where there are mo- The area, a nature reserve, is Environmental Education Cen- deer that once populated the torboat excursions to the Po accessible along pre-estab- tre (Info tel. +39 339 1935943), Po Valley. The Wood can be mouth. lished paths which are also sig- which documents the origins visited on foot and by bike.

3 4

Codigoro Ferrara

ITINERARY 4 Balanced between land and water

Not to be missed

History of Comacchio, town YOU SET OUT FROM PORTO GARIBALDI, ONE OF THE SEVEN LIDOS OF COMACCHIO, WITH WIDE on the water SANDY BEACHES. DELIMITED TO THE NORTH BY THE PO DELTA AND TO THE SOUTH BY THE RENO Of very ancient origins, Co- macchio stands on 13 islets ESTUARY, THE COMACCHIO LIDOS, WHICH SEEM TO FLOAT ON THE WATER, ARE SURROUNDED BY emerging from the lagoons MAJESTIC PINEWOODS AND VAST GREEN SPACES. of Valle Pega and Valle Isola. Its symbol is the 17th centu- ry Trepponti bridge, a unique structure with five flights of steps and five arches. Other notable buildings are the Cathedral dedicated to San Cassiano, the Loggia dei Valle Bertuzzi, between Cappuccini, the Clock Tower , woodland and sea the Merchants’ Loggia and the From Porto Garibaldi you Fish Market. head towards Volano by the The Pescheria (an ancient fi- panoramic Acciaioli road, a shmonger’s shop), the Antica distance of about 18 kilome- Manifattura dei Marinati and tres. The Acciaioli road skirts the Roman Ship Museum are the Valle Bertuzzi on the left: of considerable interest; the 2,000 hectares of spectacu- ship, about twenty metres lar seascape/landscape sus- long and dating to the 1st cen- pended between the extensive tury BC was found by chance lagoons, separated from the just a few kilometres from the stretches of dunes over which town in 1981. The ship had herons and pink flamingos fly. been quickly sanded over so On the other side there is the Lago delle Nazioni on the it and its cargo were preser- 2 3 ved: the latter is now on show shores of which the white hors- in the museum while the hull es of the Delta, descendents of itself is in an adjacent pavilion- the Camargue breed, live in a laboratory. wild state.

(Info: Tel. IAT +39 0533 314 154) The heron builds its nest in Cannevié Leaving Volano you should stop at the Torre della Finanza, built in the 17 th century by the to control access to the Po di Volano. Skirting the Valle Bertuzzi from the northern side you take the bicycle lane Passo Pomposa - Volano. On the right, the Cannevié - Por- ticino nature reserve, a brack- ish mash where the red heron and the little bittern build their nests.

1. Comacchio 2. Goro, harbour 3./6. Po Delta Park 4. Pomposa, Abbey 1 4 5. Mesola, Torre Abate

12 3 m Porto Garibaldi 1 m Lido di Pomposa 1 m Lido di Volano 3 m Pomposa

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 28

Departure: Porto Garibaldi Arrival: Pomposa Distance: 28 Km Degree of difficulty: very low Maximum altitude: - Duration: roughly 1 hour

z Chiavica dell’Agrifoglio About 3 kilometres from Can- nevié you turn right towards the Chiavica dell’Agrifoglio, the old- est hydraulic work extant in the lower Ferrarese area (1689). As soon as you pass the sluice- gate you turn left to get to the celebrated Pomposa Abbey where you can visit the church, the refectory, the chapter-house and the Palazzo della Ragione.

5

6

Comacchio Ravenna PEDALLING AMONG BYZANTINE TREASURES

What to see The Beautiful and Information the Good NATURALLY SUITED TO The , Ravenna’s gold The art of mosaics is still very Cycling in Romagna CYCLISTS, THE PROVINCE OF worldwide much alive in Ravenna. Street The most fascinating routes No less than 8 of its monu- markets, shops and art gal- for cyclists and bikers RAVENNA OFFERS THE TOUGH ments have been declared leries offer original modern Languages: Italian, English, RIDGES, GENTLE HILLS, VAST “world heritage” by Unesco mosaics and reproductions of German PLAIN AND COASTLINE WITHIN for the supreme artistic mastery ancient ones. Information: Province of the mosaics, the heritage of of Ravenna - Tourism Department THE PO DELTA PARK AREA, 1600 years of history. In numerous work- Fax +39 0544 506 024 A STIMULATING VARIETY OF shops continue the traditional [email protected] LANDSCAPES THERE TO BE And you cannot leave Ravenna craft of ceramics, enriched without visiting at least its most with new ideas. EXPERIENCED. important sights. The 6th century of In Villanova di IT ISN’T ONLY THE San Vitale with the two great there are craftspeople spe- LANDSCAPE THAT HAS mosaics depicting Justinian cialised in working marshland and Theodora; the 5th century plants and wood. GENUINE SURPRISES IN Mausoleum of Galla Placidia STORE FOR KEEN CYCLISTS. with the blue vaulted ceiling The foodstuffs of the prov- ANOTHER EXTRAORDINARY featuring stars; the fa- ince are also special: piadina, mous Baptisteries, the Neo- salt from , olive oil from ASPECT OF THIS PROVINCE nian and the Arian, and the and shallots from IS THE UNIQUE TREASURES Archbishop’s Chapel where Riolo, all of which have been FOUND HERE. ONE AMONG the mosaics depict the fauna of masterfully used for centuries in the Ravenna pinewoods. cooking, preserving and dress- MANY: RAVENNA, BETWEEN ing food. EAST AND WEST, WHICH There are two dedi- PRESERVES THE LIGHT OF cated to Sant’Apollinare, pa- The typical cuisine of this area tron saint of the town. One is between land and sea consists ANCIENT BYZANTIUM IN THE in the centre, Sant’Apollinare of grilled meat, home-made GOLD OF ITS MOSAICS. Nuovo, with its stupendous pro- such as , taglia- cession of Virgins and Martyrs, telle and cappelletti as well as and the other a few kilometres grilled fish, with frogs and eels out of town, Sant’Apollinare for the more curious palate. in Classe featuring a magnifi- cent with a hemispheri- cal semi-. Both basilicas have a cylindrical bell tower (10th – 11th century) about 40 metres high. Another majestic monument is the Theodoric’s Mausoleum built at the Goth king’s behest in 520 AD.

Also noteworthy is the Dan- tesque area that includes Dan- te Alighieri’s Tomb and the Church of San Francesco.

1. Ravenna, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia 2. Ravenna, 1 3. Sant’Apollinare in Classe 2

14 Festivals and Fairs

MARCH › Cervia › Festival of San Giuseppe and Squid Fair revisitation of the old tradition of the salt store, with transportation Organised entertainment and shows in the Romagna tradition; music, from the saltpans to the storerooms using the “burchiella”. street markets, flower show and seafood stands. (Info: Tel. +39 0544 993 435) Pinarella Shopping Centre (Info: Tel. +39 0544 993 435) www.turismo.comunecervia.it www.turismo.comunecervia.it September › › Province Grape Fair JULY › Riolo Terme › Shallot Festival Established in 1952, the event offers typical dishes, DOC wines, A chance to discover the delicacies of the Romagna shallot. Food historical processions and shows. (Info: Tel. +39 0546 71 044) stands. (Info: Tel. +39 0546 71 044) www.terredifaenza.it www.terredifaenza.it October › › Festival of Forgotten Fruit JULY AND AUGUST › Casola Valsenio Display and sale of small autumn fruits forgotten in the change from › Evening street Herbs Market an agricultural to an industrial society. Jam competition. Medicinal plants on sale, lectures, tasting at the “green table”. (Info: Tel. +39 0546 73 033) (Info: Tel. +39 0546 73 033) www.terredifaenza.it www.terredifaenza.it November › Brisighella › 4 fairs for 3 hills September › Cervia › Flavour of Salt A delicious gastronomy event which dedicates each Sunday in A whole month dedicated to the salty origins and tradition of the November to a typical local product: pork, the Volpina pear and town, with a busy programme of shows, exhibitions, meetings, mature cheese, truffles and oil. (Info: Tel. +39 0546 81 166) cultural get-togethers and markets on a theme. There is also a www.terredifaenza.it

The holiday offers are available www.adriacoast.com

3

15 Ravenna

ITINERARY 5 A plunge into the hinterland

Not to be missed

Treatments and relaxation FROM THE SEA OF CERVIA TO THE PEAK OF AND BACK. THERE ARE LONG PLEASANT at the Cervia Spa STRETCHES OVER THE PLAIN AND FIELDS, BUT BRUSQUELY INTERRUPTED BY THE CLIMB TOWARDS Surrounded by a centuries-old pinewood the Spa of Cervia, BERTINORO. ABOUT 60 KILOMETRES IN ALL, WHICH WON’T BE ANY EFFORT FOR EXPERTS BUT MAY open from May to October, PROVE TIRING TO THE BEGINNERS. offers many avant-garde servi- ces, from the classic therapies to treatments for beauty, well- being and relaxation. The spa uses a rare and precious brine that comes directly from the Cervia salt-pans, as do the hi- ghly prized muds used which are similar to the “liman” of the Dead Sea. The thermal pool and the gym are open until December.

(Info: Tel. Terme +39 0544 990 111)

Ten kilometres of flatland and Bertinoro, a hospitable place 1. Riolo Terme then… You arrive in Bertinoro after a 2. Ravenna You cross the “Adriatica” state fairly tough climb and the town 3. Ravenna, San Vitale Pinewood road and at the first fork take is the just reward for your ef- 4. Po Delta Park Via Cervara on the left. After forts. An atmosphere of other eight kilometres on the flat, to ages, but not only this: Berti- warm up your muscles, you noro is renowned as a place of come to Pisignano and imme- hospitality, a 700 year tradition diately afterwards Cannuzzo. as may be seen from the Col- The atmosphere is the peaceful onna delle Anelle (Hospitality one you breathe in the coun- Column) in the main square. tryside. At the tenth kilometre, If you then think of its gastro- having crossed the river , nomic fame you may indulge you leave the province of Ra- yourself with a glass of wine. venna and enter the province of No doubt accompanied by the Forlì Cesena; near Santa Mar- inseparable piadina. ia Nuova you start the climb towards Bertinoro. The road Headlong to the sea gets gradually tougher over an The return to Cervia is genuine ascent of ten kilometres with pleasure. As you speed along some hard gradients that will amid vineyards you get glimps- test your physical condition. es of the plain as far as the sea. As the road flattens out you 1 come to the road back: Santa

16 2 m Cervia 8 m Pisignano 10 m Matellica 26 m S. Maria Nuova 257 m Bertinoro 26 m S. Maria Nuova 10 m Matellica 8 m Pisignano 2 m Cervia

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60

Departure: Cervia Arrival: Cervia Distance: 60 Km Degree of difficulty: medium-low Maximum altitude: 257 m. Duration: 2 and a half hours

Maria Nuova, the Dismano road, Matellica, Cannuzzo and Pisignano. You swiftly approach the sea and the welcoming beaches of Cervia.

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Cesena

4 Ravenna

ITINERARY 6 Tour for connoisseurs

Not to be missed

At Riolo the “Chalk Vein” A MORE THAN EIGHTY KILOMETRE RUN, WHOLLY INTERNAL, OF TOP CYCLING QUALITY BUT ALSO Anyone passing through the OF HIGH HISTORIC-CULTURAL INTEREST. A SORT OF RECTANGLE THAT STARTS AND FINISHES IN area, by bike or by other me- ans, should take a stop in Ri- FAENZA AFTER PASSING THROUGH TOWNS OF ART AND SPAS SUCH AS CASTROCARO, BRISIGHELLA olo Terme. This spa town with AND RIOLO. IN THE MIDDLE, MONTE TREBBIO AND OTHER BREAKAWAYS THAT ARE NOT NEGLIGIBLE, its therapeutic springs offers CASALE AND MONTICINO FOR EXAMPLE. not only the spa centre immer- sed in magnificent grounds ADVICE TO THOSE ABLE TO DETACH THEMSELVES FROM COMPETITIVE FERVOUR: A FEW STOPS AND with an elegant Art Nouveau GLANCES AT THE PANORAMA ARE WELL WORTHWHILE. pavilion, but also the impo- sing 15th century fortress, still intact, and a richness of na- ture that is not to be missed: The truffle, a prized the Chalk Vein is a long rocky species ridge known as “moonstone” The first stretch, leaving due to its extraordinary reflec- Faenza towards Forlì, is on tions at night. the Via Emilia where traffic is heavy. But all that’s needed is (Info: Tel. IAT +39 0546 71 044) a little patience because after about ten kilometres, follow- ing the signs for Villagrappa on the right, peace will return.

This stretch that goes towards Castrocaro is on apparently slightly flat ground that gets your legs ready for the effort of the upcoming climb. From Castrocaro there are about ten up and down kilometres 2 to Dovadola, famous for a prized species of truffle that grows there. Here you start Watch out at the Monte Casale have to face the second climb going up: first there are two breakaway of the day: Monte Casale. kilometres of pretty gentle as- You start going down to Mod- It isn’t a long stretch, about cent then, starting from the igliana and the descent is dif- three kilometres, but the gradi- Monte Trebbio fork, more than ficult in stretches. You pass ent is roughly a fairly constant five kilometres from the top, the town on a road surface 10%. The last 300 metres are the climb gets really serious. that is treacherous for bikes the worst and they bite into your and carry straight on to the legs, but then you are on the way The first kilometre has a gradi- road for Brisighella. Now you down to Brisighella, once more ent of about 10%, then there is a providential flat before you take on about 1500 metres at 12%. Lastly, after a few hundred metres that are fortunately more easygoing, there is a final diabolical kilometre.

When you get to the top you feel gratified by the achievement and by the Memorial Stone dedi- cated to cyclists. Never was there a better aimed homage. 1

18 34 m Faenza 69 m Castrocaro 134 m Dovadola 450 m Monte Trebbio 192 m 115 m Brisighella 98 m Riolo Terme 34 m Faenza

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85

Departure: Faenza Arrival: Faenza Distance: 85 Km Degree of difficulty: medium-high M aximum altitude: 450 m. Duration: roughly 4 hours

in the province of Ravenna. Towards the finishing line At the Riolo Terme roundabout Brisighella, the pleasure of the you take the wide road on the beautiful right that leads to Via Emilia. Brisighella, over and above be- At the traffic lights you see, ing an important spa centre, on the right, the first houses is one of the most evocative of . The road places in the province. If you is busy but in a flash you get feel like taking a break, this is to Faenza which a byword for the right place. It is full of me- ceramics throughout the world. diaeval charm with its narrow And the itinerary ends here. streets, the Fortress, the Clock Tower and that peculiarity, the 1. Apennine raised and arcaded Via degli 2. Brisighella Asini. At Brisighella you’ve 3. Faenza, Cathedral covered 60 kilometres but the 4. Riolo Terme climbs aren’t over yet: there’s still Monticino, three kilome- tres touching on 10% with your muscles and spirit already suf- fering from previous ascents. Then after three downhill kilo- metres and another breaka- way at the fork of Villa San Giorgio in Vezzano, you ar- rive at Riolo Terme in the lower valley of the river .

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3 4 Ravenna

ITINERARY 7 A thousand metres up

Not to be missed

Faenza, the art of majolica A RUN THAT IS NEITHER EASY NOR SHORT: 120 KILOMETRES FROM FAENZA TO THE APENNINES The place name means ce- WITH, IN THE MIDDLE, THE SAMBUCA CLIMB, 9 KILOMETRES OF ASCENT AND 18 OF DESCENT, ONE ramics in various languages, including the French faience OF THE LONGEST IN ROMAGNA. IT’S A REGULAR RATHER THAN MASSACRING ROUTE, HIGHLIGHTING and the English faience, so THE SKILLS OF THE LONG DISTANCE CYCLIST. IT CAN’T BE SAID TO BE WITHIN EVERYONE’S REACH you must not miss a visit to the BUT IT’S AN ITINERARY WORTH TACKLING, ALSO PLANNING VARIOUS PAUSES, BECAUSE THE VOYAGE International Ceramics Muse- um. The churches and build- OF DISCOVERY IS ONE TO BE REMEMBERED. ings of the old town centre are of great value such as the 15th century Cathedral, designed by Giuliano da Maiano, the 18th century Palazzo Milzetti, The ascent announces Tuscan the Masini Theatre and the Romagna Chiesa della Commenda. The first stretch, from Faenza to Riolo Terme via Castel Bolog- (Info: Tel. IAT +39 0546 25 231) nese, is pure warm-up. From the spa town towards Palazzuolo by way of Casola Valsenio, where medicinal herbs are grown, the distance is 37 kilometres and the breakaways wring your legs. You are entering Tuscan Ro- magna, linked to the Mugello by the Apennine ridges. 2

The Sambuca, not so much 1. Ravenna, mosaic hard as long 2./3./4. Brisighella Passing the built up area of Pal- 5. Modigliana, la Roccaccia azzuolo you take the road on the left to Borgo San Lorenzo and after 2 kilometres you reach Acquadalto. You’re faced with the Sambuca Pass and the climb gets tough. The nine kilo- metre ascent to get to the pass is interminable even though the gradients are not unspeakable (around 8%). You should imme- diately seek the right gear and pedalling rhythm and think about conserving energy. At 1061 metres of the pass there’s a 3 kilometre vertical dive followed by a further 2 kilome- tre climb, and then down again to arrive, after 1000 metres, at the Passo della Colla. Again with clenched brakes to zero a 600 metre difference in altitude and arrive at , where Dino Campana was born and where they grow special chest- nuts used for cooking all sorts of 1 things. 3

20 34 m Faenza 98 m Riolo Terme 195 m Casola Valsenio 437 m Palazzuolo 1061 m Passo Sambuca 328 m Marradi 192 m Modigliana 34 m Faenza

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120

Departure: Faenza Arrival: Faenza Distance: 120 Km Degree of difficulty: high Maximum altitude: 1061 m. Duration: 5/6 hours

You get there, without too many surprises The last 40 kilometres are fairly easy going but with a couple of ambushes: the first is the four kilometre Torretto ascent near Sant’Adriano, tough only on the initial and final stretches, and the second is the ascent to Marzeno, around ten kilometres after Modigliana, with 1300 me- tres at 9%. Marzeno really is the last effort because Faenza is by now in view and the road offers more than anything else the re- ward of a downhill run. 4

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5 Ravenna

ITINERARY 8 Gran Fondo del Sale

Not to be missed

The salt-pans, paradise for THE COURSE HAS BECOME A CLASSIC SEASON-STARTER EVENT FOR AMATEUR CYCLISTS. THE MORE birds AUDACIOUS CAN MEASURE THEMSELVES UP AGAINST A 165 KILOMETRE LONG DISTANCE RUN, IN NO With an area of 827 hectares and more than 2000 years of WAY EASY AND WITH FOUR HILLS TO FACE UP TO. BUT IT NEEDN’T NECESSARILY BE UNDERTAKEN IN history the Cervia Salt-pans, THE SPIRIT OF COMPETITIVE SPORT: YOU CAN ALSO PLAN VARIOUS PAUSES. IN ANY CASE, ARRIVING of Etruscan origin and still ac- AT THE END WILL BE A GREAT SATISFACTION. tive, are a not to be missed appointment with the “salt ci- vilisation”. This natural and very beautiful oasis is a nature reserve for animal repopulation and many extraordinary encounters are First breakaways at Monte Fi- possible: blackwinged stilts, nocchio redshanks, Mediterranean gul- Leaving Cervia you take road ls, sheldrakes, herons, cranes, 254 which borders the salt- storks and avocets build their pans and head inland over the nests in the salt-pans. plain, passing by Pisignano, For some time now, each year, Cannuzzo, Matellica and an immense pink cloud de- Mensa. scends on these stretches of brackish water, a sight so evo- At Santa Maria Nuova you cative as to amaze anyone: a turn towards Cesena, arriving great colony of pink flamingos at the localities of San Vittore – from 300 to 700 of them – and Borello. At Borello, having which stop to rest and eat in done about forty kilometres, the salt-pans during their long you start to feel the air of a real migrations. climb.

(Info: Tel. IAT +39 0544 974 400) And in the middle of Forlì terri- tory, by way of Linaro and Ran- chio, you start climbing to the Musella Pass, better known as Monte Finocchio. Nothing 2 terrible but the ascent to arrive at the 644 metres of the pass is continuous and pretty long. of the day begins, the stretch 14% and at this point, with the And it’s only the first, so con- leading to Montevecchio. two ascents already done on serve your strength well. your legs it’s an effort to stay The first kilometres are terrible in the saddle. Fortunately the Plautus’s with a 14-15% gradient, then climb isn’t really one of those There is a very difficult seven the ascent gets more clem- very long ones. kilometre plunge down to ent. Arriving at 324 metres of Sarsina where Titus Maccius Montevecchio you turn off for From the summit you go down Plautus was born (250 BC), the Oriola and continue climbing to Teodorano and , greatest Latin dramatist. From to 400 metres. but there’s no respite. Right Sarsina the descent proceeds, The descent to San Carlo is after Fratta Terme you start though less steeply, to Merca- fine and gratifying, and you’ve climbing towards Polenta. to Saraceno. now done 100 kilometres.

Tough approach to Mon- There are 65 to go with two 1. Cervia, salt-pans tevecchio fine hills still to tackle. The 2. Po Delta Park Having crossed Ponte Giorgi, first, Monte Cavallo, you taste 3. Sarsina, Mausoleum with about 80 kilometres be- immediately passing through of Obulacco 1 hind you, the second hardship Borello. The gradient is up to 4. Bertinoro, Hospitality Column

22 2 m Cervia 2 m Saline di Cervia 15 m Matellica 20 m S. Maria Nuova via Emilia 26 m Incrocio 60 m S. Vittore 71 m Borello 120 m Osteria di Piavola 205 m Linaro 300 m Ranchio 644 m Musella M. Finocchio 242 m Sarsina Saraceno 134 m Mercato 90 m Ponte Giorgi 81 m bivio per Montevecchio 324 m Montevecchio 400 m Oriola 70 m S. Carlo 71 m Borello 480 m Monte Cavallo 338 m Teodorano 81 m bivio per Meldola 30 m Meldola 40 m Fratta Terme 330 m Polenta 305 m Collinello 257 m Bertinoro via Emilia 26 m Incrocio 20 m S. Maria Nuova 15 m Matellica 2 m Cervia Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 7570 80 85 90 95 105100 110 115 125120 130 135 140 145 150 155 160 165

Departure: Cervia Arrival: Cervia Distance: 165 Km Degree of difficulty: very high Maximum altitude: 644 m. Duration: 6/7 hours

Amidst the peace of Polenta The last hardship of the day. If you want to avoid the toughest part you can make an immedi- ate detour to Bertinoro, but if you want to destroy yourself thoroughly you’ve got long stretches at 17% ahead of you. A real wall. But it’s worthwhile: the whole territory, immersed in a proverbial tranquillity, exudes history and mystery. The church in Polenta – perhaps dating to the 10th century – is one of the oldest in the Forlì area and Carducci, who loved the peace Mensa of these places, dedicated fa- 3 mous verses to it. From Po- lenta you skirt Bertinoro and S. Maria plunge down towards the sea, Nuova going back over the departure stretch and passing through Santa Maria Nuova, Cannuzzo, Pisignano to arrive at the Cervia Salt-Pans. To take part in the Gran Fondo del Sale tel. +39 0544 974 395.

Uso

4 Forlì-Cesena CHARMING VILLAGES AND ENCHANTED HILLS

1 What to see The Beautiful and Information the Good PEDALLING IN THE PROVINCE In Forlì, the Rocca di Ravaldino, Throughout the province you Bici in FC OF FORLÌ AND CESENA MEANS seat of the Ordelaffi family and will find wrought iron work- Itineraries, some of the most Caterina Sforza; in Cesena the shops. The craft has an ancient beautiful in the province, for BEING ABLE TO CHOOSE YOUR precious Biblioteca Malates- history here. Cloth printed touring cyclists FAVOURITE KIND OF ITINERARY tiana library. with the “rust” method is found Languages: Italian, English, WHENEVER YOU LIKE: FROM The heart of Forlì is Piazza Saffi, in (also a paradise German overlooked by the Abbey of San for collectors of old objects in Information: Province BROAD PLAIN TO SHORT Mercuriale with its Romanesque iron), Castrocaro, Santa Sofia, of Forlì-Cesena SUDDEN ASCENTS, RIGHT UP bell tower. Other buildings in the Forlì and . Fax +39 0543 21 465 TO THE WOODED PEAKS OF THE square are the Romanesque- [email protected] APENNINES. Gothic Palazzo del Podestà, the In Montetiffi, near Sogliano al Town Hall, where the Ordelaffi Rubicone, they make the best Sea and Mountains by YOU JUST HAVE TO DECIDE IN family lived, and the Palazzo degli clay pans for baking the an- mountainbike WHICH DIRECTION TO POINT Albertini. A walk through Forlì cient traditional bread of Ro- 16 itineraries for mountainbi- YOUR BIKE. THERE’S THE FLAT should include a visit to the Rocca magna: piadina, whose fame ke enthusiasts di Ravaldino, an imposing square equals that of another great Languages: Italian, English, AND EASY COAST; THERE’S THE plan fortress built in the 14th cen- name in Italian gastronomy, German PLAIN WITH ROADS CUTTING tury and extended in 1472 at the Pellegrino Artusi, also a native Information: Province THROUGH FERTILE, CROP-RICH behest of Pino III Ordelaffi, stage of these parts. of Forlì-Cesena of the events linked to Caterina Fax +39 0543 21 465 COUNTRYSIDE; THERE ARE Sforza, Lady of Romagna. Another The high points of local cook- [email protected] THE HILLS, PROTECTED BY building certainly worth seeing is ing are the home-made pass- ANCIENT WALLS, FORTRESSES the Monumental Complex of San atelli, , , AND FORTIFIED VILLAGES Domenico which houses remark- and as Pellegrino himself com- able exhibitions, the Picture Gallery mands, with fossa THAT SUDDENLY EMERGE ON and the Municipal Museums with cheese from Sogliano, not to THE PLAIN, OFFERING TOUGH works by Beato Angelico, Guer- mention the fried and grilled BUT BRIEF ASCENTS. AND cino, Palmezzano and a beautiful fish and fish soups that are Hebe by Canova. Standing guard the main items on the seafood 1. Cesena, Parish Church THEN THERE ARE THE ACTUAL over the noble atmosphere of menu of Cesenatico, a delight of Santa Reparata MOUNTAINS, AT THE SOUTHERN Cesena is the fourteenth century to the palate. The famous Al- 2. Forlì, Hebe by Canova BOUNDARY OF THE PROVINCE, Rocca Malatestiana. From its walk- bana and Sangiovese wines 3. Cesena, Masini fountain ways you will enjoy a stupendous are well suited to the traditional 4. a Mare, beach WHERE THE AIR AND THE view. Another of the town’s treas- cuisine. 5. Cesenatico, sail ASCENTS ARE TRULY APENNINE. ures is the Library, built as a public library in the mid 15th century at the behest of Novello Malatesta, declared “Memory of the World” by UNESCO in 2005. It is one of the most precious heritages of human- ist culture and its structure, furnish- ings and collection of books have remained intact. Overlooking Cese- na, the Benedictine Santuario della Madonna del Monte specialised in the restoration of old books. The ex voto collection is highly interesting: the paintings on wood, mostly dat- ing to between the 15th and 19th centuries, form an actual gallery of popular art. Cesenatico, birthplace of Marco Pantani, pays tribute to the great cycling champion with an exhibition of photos, mementoes 2 and audiovisual materials in an area 3 called “Spazio Pantani”. 24 Festivals and Fairs

EASTER › Sarsina › Easter Loaf Fair October › › “Noi con Voi” Festival of Fairs Stands with typical gastronomic and craft products of Romagna; Fairs and festivals dedicated to delicious local products: alla music and organised entertainment. lastra, zambudelle and chestnuts. (Info: Municipal Tourist Board Tel. +39 0547 94 901) (Info: Tourist Office Tel. +39 0543 911 046)

MARCH › Cesenatico › Azzurro come il pesce October › Dovadola › Truffle Fair Gastronomic event exalting the “humbler” fish species of the Adriatic Perfume of the white truffle, the best. Dovadola celebrates this sea; tasting of typical dishes and fish. “nugget” with a great Festival. (Info: Tourist Office Tel. +39 0547 673 287) (Info: Pro Loco Tel. +39 0543 933 200)

May › Civitella › Prugnolo Festival November › › Bartolaccio Fair Presentation and sale of this highly aromatic mushroom, with The bartolaccio is the characteristic ravioli-type pasta of Tredozio, delicatessen stands and music travelling through the town’s streets. with a potato, bacon and sheep’s milk cheese filling. (Info: Pro Loco Tel. +39 0543 989 195) (Info: Comune Tel. +39 0546 943 937)

June › › Artusi Festival November › Sogliano › Fossa Cheese Festival Festival in honour of Pellegrino Artusi, the gastronomic unifier of Italy. Event dedicated to the renowned fossa cheese, with food stands. Many events during the week. (Info: Tourist Office Tel. +39 0541 827 339) (Info: Cultural Office Tel. +39 0543 749 234)

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The holiday offers are available www.adriacoast.com

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25 Forlì-Cesena

ITINERARY 9 Nove Colli

Not to be missed

Giovanni Pascoli’s rooms- WE’RE TALKING ABOUT THE NOVE COLLI (NINE HILLS), A LEGEND IN THE TOUR CYCLING MOVEMENT: San Mauro is the birthplace of A LONG DISTANCE RACE THAT FOR YEARS HAS BEEN A NOT-TO-BE-MISSED EVENT FOR THOUSANDS Giovanni Pascoli. Until 1932 it was called San Mauro di Ro- OF ITALIAN AND EUROPEAN CYCLISTS. THE START OF THE NOVE COLLI, HELD EVERY MAY, IS A magna, then the name was SPECTACULAR SIGHT TO SEE. BUT ASIDE FROM THE EVENT ITSELF, THE ROUTE IS THERE FOR changed to EVERYONE TO TRY, EVEN ONLY IN PART IF YOU DON’T FEEL UP TO TACKLING 205 KILOMETRES AND 9 in the poet’s honour. You can pay an interesting visit to the RUGGED HILLS IN ONE GO. house he was born in where his rooms have been retained intact. Seven kilometres away, the welcoming seaside resort of San Mauro Mare. Polenta, the first tough breakaway (Info: Tel. IAT +39 0541 346 392) After departure from Cesena- tico, you ride without problems as far as Cesena, and then Forlimpopoli where you start the ascent to Bertinoro, the first steep climb on the course, after 30 kilometres. The tough- est point is actually after Berti- noro in breaking away towards Polenta, with gradients up to 15%. After the descent to Fratta Terme there’s a fine rest- ful stretch, through Meldola and Pian di Spino; the last stretch is also the same length. After sixty kilometres you start climbing again towards Pieve di Rivoschio.

At the start the slope is pretty 2 gentle and easily pedalled, but then becomes tougher. There’s also a welcome downhill run like it. The Barbotto is looming, At Pugliano you’re touching that prepares you for a par- which is no joke at all because 800 metres ticularly nasty last kilometre. At though it’s a climb of only six The last stretch of Montet- Pieve di Rivoschio you’ve cov- kilometres the last stretch has iffi is pretty heavy going, but it ered 64 kilometres. a gradient peaking at 18%. doesn’t last very long and the descent is also short, just a The Barbotto commands re- Of the Nove Colli the Barbotto couple of kilometres, because spect is the summit richest in cycling at once, with continual breaka- You start going down again to- tradition: the cyclists of the area ways, you approach the 655 wards San Romano and you feel duty bound to measure metres of Perticara. Having must watch out because it’s a themselves up against its hair- crossed the col the descent pretty insidious descent. The pin bends. is vigorous until Ponte Baffoni, third hill, the Ciola, is in the di- where you have covered 135 rection of . The sixth hill is Montetiffi that kilometres. The seventh hill, The gradient is constant and you reach after a stretch of Pugliano, with its 787 metres, with the right rhythm you climb road that allows a pause is the highest summit of the cir- without great pains. There are and a pleasant meeting-up: cuit. You approach it with the plenty occasions for a break at Sogliano, home of the famous tough climb of the Maiolo (up 1 Mercato Saraceno if you feel fossa cheese. to 17%), then the slope gets less treacherous and you come 26 2 m Cesenatico 35 m Cesena 30 m Forlimpopoli 220 m Bertinoro 305 m Polenta 49 m Fratta Terme 58 m Dovadola 400 m Pieve di Rivoschio 130 m S. Romano 190 m Linaro 531 m Ciola Saraceno 135 m Mercato 515 m Barbotto 551 m Rontagnano 351 m Sogliano 164 m Ponte Uso 405 m Montetiffi 451 m Serra 655 m Perticara 495 m Bivio Sartiano 280 m Ponte Baffoni 780 m Pugliano 583 m S. Leo 213 m Secchiano 434 m Passo delle Siepi 164 m Ponte Uso 75 m Bivio Gorolo 318 m Gorolo 230 m 32 m Savignano 2 m Cesenatico

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 140 145 150 155 160 165 170 175 180 185 190 195 200 205

Departure: Cesenatico Arrival: Cesenatico Distance: 205 Km Degree of difficulty: very high Maximum altitude: 787 m. Duration: 8/11 hours

to the village. It seems intolerable, no mat- not much to be said: these 200 Gorolo, last insult to the mus- ter how small a ratio you have, kilometres, so well devised, cles but it’s the final effort because represent one of the most ex- Only two hills to go to complete once you’ve reached Gorolo citing challenges for the tour the enterprise, and the eighth, you head down to the plain and cyclist. As for ratios, a 39x28 is the Passo Siepi, is not one of the sea. advised but some actually opt the most tiring: the gradients You pass Borghi and Savig- for 30x28. To take part in the are not extreme and it is pre- nano, you pass the river Ru- Nove Colli, phone +39 0547 ceded by a fine downhill run bicon and now the road is flat 672 156. from Pugliano to San Leo. But towards Cesenatico. There’s at this point, with 160 kilome- tres and eight ascents behind you, even a flyover would seem too much. The last hill, Gorolo, appears terrible and, with its first stretch at 13% and the last peaks at 17%, is an undertak- ing to be fully respected.

1. San Mauro Pascoli 2. Nove Colli 3. Cesenatico Cesena

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ITINERARY 10 Towards the Apennine ridges

Not to be missed

The Acquacheta waterfall, THIS SEA-HILL ROUTE IS NOT EASY BUT VERY STIMULATING. FROM THE SEASIDE RESORT dear to Dante ATMOSPHERE OF CESENATICO TO THE SPURS OF THE APENNINES, TOWARDS TUSCAN ROMAGNA, This itinerary, especially for those who go as far as Premil- SO CALLED BECAUSE OF ITS STRONG LINKS WITH . THIS IS A STRETCH AT A FAIR LEVEL cuore, arrives at the bounda- OF CYCLING, NOT EXACTLY SHORT, HERE AND THERE SELECTIVE, AND FEATURING MANY HISTORICAL ry between Romagna and REFERENCES. Tuscany. Approximately two hours from San Benedetto in Alpe, in an almost impenetra- ble valley, there is the Acqua- cheta waterfall, mentioned by Dante in the XVI Canto of the Inferno. It lunges spectacularly Roman and Byzantine Treas- from a height of ninety metres. ures in The first 30 kilometres, as far (Info: Tel. Comune Portico San as Forlimpopoli, are on the flat Benedetto +39 0543 967 047) and give the chance to warm up and prepare for the climbs ahead.

At Forlimpopoli, at the Fortress, you turn left for Meldola which is protected by the wall built in the 15th century by Novello Malatesta. From Meldola the road is increasingly uphill: you head for Civitella and then, after about sixty kilometres, for Galeata that stands in a broad valley surrounded by the spurs of the Apennines.

Of great interest are the Abbey of Sant’Ellero, with its Roman- esque façade, and the Museo Mambrini which houses finds from Roman, Byzantine and of Monte delle Forche (444 me- Variant possible at Premilcu- mediaeval times. tres) you’ve covered 66 kilome- ore tres.The descent to San Zeno In (its charming Tough approach to Monte gives you a second wind. name means “Overwhelms delle Forche the heart”) the Museo della From Galeata you really start At this point you can head di- Fauna del Crinale Romagnolo climbing to the top of Monte rectly for or turn (a museum on the local fauna) delle Forche. The first part is left and take a variant route to is very interesting and is open pretty hard and at least 39x25 nearby Premilcuore (11 and a from spring to summer. The is advised, then the gradient half kilometres up and down, National Park of the Casen- becomes less tiring and you actually more up than down) tino Forests, Monte Falterona can maybe manage to get your and Santa Sofia. These two vil- and Campigna is the habitat rhythm with a couple of teeth lages are fully paid up members of the Apennine wolf, the deer less. of Tuscan Romagna, having be- and roe-deer, birds of prey and longed to the Province of Flor- also reptiles and amphibians, But on the whole it’s a difficult ence until 1923, before coming adders, frogs, toads and fish. climb and you have to be in under Forlì. There is nature, art and history training to overcome it without also in Santa Sofia, another 1 too much dragging. At the top village of the Park, where en- thusiasm for music involves the 28 2 m Cesenatico 10 m Villalta 8 m Pisignano 25 m S. Maria Nuova 30 m Forlimpopoli 58 m Meldola 219 m Civitella 235 m Galeata 444 m M. Forche 281 m S. Zeno 130 m Predappio 380 m Rocca delle Caminate 58 m Meldola 30 m Forlimpopoli 25 m S. Maria Nuova 8 m Pisignano 10 m Villalta 2 m Cesenatico

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 9095 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135

Departure: Cesenatico Arrival: Cesenatico Distance: 136 Km Degree of difficulty: very high Maximum altitude: 444 m. Duration: 5h1 /2

whole village whose band has existed for 150 years.

Mussolini’s house in Predappio Those who choose the variant can go back by the same route and take the main road to San Zeno. Those sticking to the pro- 2 gramme go down immediately from San Zeno to Predappio, 1. Acquacheta the village where Benito Musso- 2. Civitella 3 lini was born in 1883. The village 3. Santa Sofia has two quite distinct architec- tures: the upper part which is mediaeval and the new part which can be recognised by its rationalist style buildings. From Predappio you go up to the nearby Rocca delle Caminate. The four kilometre climb is fairly hard, but it’s also the last effort because from the fortress you go down to the built up area of Meldola where you join up with the first stretch of the itinerary. Then you head for the plain by way of Forlimpopoli, Santa Maria Nuova and Pisignano until you reach Cesenatico after 136 kilometres full of surprises and not negligible climbs. 5

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ITINERARY 11 Sixty kilometres of exciting ups and downs

Not to be missed

Forlimpopoli, where Pelle- THE COURSE FAITHFULLY REFLECTS THE FEATURES OF THE FORLÌ TERRITORY IN A CONTINUOUS grino Artusi was born DIALECTIC BETWEEN FLATLAND AND HILLS. A STRETCH THAT IS NEITHER EASY NOR TOO TOUGH, IN On the Via Emilia, between Forlì and Cesena, the Roman WHICH THE RUGGEDNESS OF CERTAIN ASCENTS IS MADE UP FOR BY RELATIVELY SHORT DISTANCES. Forum Populi grew up around BUT ANYONE NOT ON TOP FORM SHOULD PAY DUE ATTENTION TO THE HARSH CLIMBS OF PIEVE DI its imposing Fortress, built by RIVOSCHIO AND POLENTA. Cardinal Albornoz in the 14th century. Today it houses the Archaeological Museum. A great figure in the world of Ita- lian gastronomy was born in Forlimpopoli in 1820, Pellegri- no Artusi, author of the highly successful manual “Science in the Kitchen and the Art of Eating Well”. The old town is home to Casa Artusi, the ga- stronomic culture centre dedi- cated to Italian home cooking. In June of each year the town organises an Artusi Festival, a gastronomic event for lovers of good food.

(Info: Tel. Comune +39 0543 749 111)

2

Fratta, 11 springs of miracu- seriously: at first the hairpin you come to the built up area lous waters bends can be pedalled then of Borello. One hill behind and Departure on the flat fromFrat - it gets tougher and you need already another ahead. At 46 ta Terme, a village with an an- a 39x25. There’s also a bit of kilometres, having passed the cient spa tradition at the foot of downhill to get your breath village of Settecrociari and ta- the Bertinoro hills. There are no back but it’s followed by a dia- king the road towards Bertino- less than 11 springs with diffe- bolical final kilometre. ro, you start climbing. The road rent properties depending on rises at once under your pedals the composition of the deep Keep an eye out on the San with a 10% gradient before a subsoil they pass through, and Romano descent few ups and downs comfort a renowned Spa Centre. Concluding the last leg there’s your spirit somewhat. a crossroads where you must From Fratta there’s an easy up go left, following the signs for Then there’s the turnoff for Po- and down run until you get to Borello. There are certainly lenta and the climb (about 5 Meldola. better descents for getting your kilometres to the summit) gets From here, on a gradual and al- breath back. rough with stretches at 15% most imperceptible ascent, you The one to Borello is nervy and that take your breath away and reach Pian di Spino. The road steep: you have to keep your intoxicate your muscles. gets increasingly undulating, al- eyes open on the tight bends most as if presaging the uphill and your hands ready on the stretch. brakes. And 5 kilometres from Pieve di San Romano passes in a blink, 1. Forlimpopoli, Festa Artusiana Rivoschio you start climbing then after a 37 kilometre run 2. Polenta 1

30 49 m Fratta Terme 58 m Meldola 90 m Bivio Teodorano 119 m Pian di Spino 400 m Pieve di Rivoschio 130 m S. Romano 70 m Borello 59 m S. Vittore 199 m Bivio Polenta 305 m Polenta 49 m Fratta Terme

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60

Departure: Fratta terme Arrival: Fratta terme Distance: 60 Km Degree of difficulty: medium Maximum altitude: 400 m. Duration: about 2h1 /2

The last critical point at Po- lenta When you pass the Church in Polenta the itinerary is almost over. Only five kilometres to go, all in a nosedive toward Fratta Ter- me. The descent is pretty tre- acherous, especially at the end with a 14% gradient. You arrive in Fratta after 60 kilometres, with more than twenty of them ascents of varying toughness.

And at the end, wine and pia- dina For those who at the end of the tour want to award themselves a gastronomic break, our advi- ce is to go up, with no hurry, to Bertinoro. There’s very large and beautiful wine bar there called the Cà de Bè and for a cyclist at the end of a tiring cir- cuit it’s a marvellous stop-off. You can drink the best local wines, accompanied by pia- dina, crescioni, cold cuts and cheeses.

R

R Forlì-Cesena

ITINERARY 12 Flat start and immediate ascent

Not to be missed

Terra del Sole, a fortified THE FORLÌ HINTERLAND, BETWEEN PLAIN AND HILLS. YOU NEED THE RIGHT GEAR RATIOS BECAUSE town AT A CERTAIN POINT THE ROAD STANDS UP UNDER YOUR PEDALS AND IT ISN’T SO EASY TO MAKE Just a few kilometres from Ca- strocaro, Terra del Sole, a fine THE CHAIN TURN. A 39X26 IS SUITABLE BUT YOU MAY ALSO “EXAGGERATE” AND USE 28, WHICH example of a perfectly preser- WOULD NOT BE DISHONOURABLE. BECAUSE THESE ROMAGNA HILLS THAT SUDDENLY LEAP OUT OF ved fortified town, is worth a THE PLAIN WITH BRIEF BUT TOUGH CLIMBS DESERVE CONSIDERATION. THE WHOLE TRIP IS ABOUT visit. It was conceived by Cosimo I 66 KILOMETRES, WITH TWO CRITICAL POINTS: MONTE TREBBIO AND THE CLIMB TOWARDS SANTA De’Medici and built in accor- MARIA IN CASTELLO. dance with the town-planning canons of the renaissance “ideal town”. It is symbolic: both a war ma- chine and a main “frontier” town of the Grand Ducal Pro- vince (1543-1776) of Tuscan Romagna.

(Info: Tel. Pro Loco +39 0543 766 766)

2

On the Trebbio, a Monument Modigliana, in the footsteps to the Bike of the Counts Guidi From the departure point Cas- At the end of the descent you trocaro you head towards Do- arrive in Modigliana after a 23 vadola, truffle country. kilometre stretch. This is where The first kilometres are fairly flat the Guidi family was born, one though with an uphill tendency. of the most powerful noble Two kilometres after Dovadola families of Romagna, capable of there is the fork for Monte standing up to the most warlike Trebbio, and suddenly there are families of the middle ages. about two thousand metres at 10%; then the climb becomes There are still visible traces of irritating with an alternation of their long rule over Modigliana. easy stretches and diabolical Leaving this town you proceed 12% gradients. It is no coinci- towards Tredozio. dence that there is a monument In Tredozio, a centuries-old to the bike at the crossing of the peace Trebbio. The descent is easy go- ing but the last stretch requires 1. Terra del Sole constant attention because you 2. Dovadola, Rocca dei Conti Guidi are going at extreme gradient (the fortress) 3. Modigliana, la Tribuna (17%). Technique and ability are 4. Tredozio called for, but also carefulness 5. Castrocaro Terme, Baptistery 1 3 and brakes. 6. Portico di Romagna

32 68 m Castrocaro Terme Castrocaro m 68 140 m Dovadola 169 m Bivio Trebbio 575 m M. Trebbio 185 m Modigliana 334 m Tredozio 633 m Bivio S. Maria in Castello 210 m Rocca S. Casciano 140 m Dovadola Terme Castrocaro m 68

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 66

Departure: Castrocaro terme Arrival: Castrocaro terme Distance: 66 Km Degree of difficulty: medium high Maximum altitude: 633 m. Duration: 3 h

The ascent is easy. With your muscles run-in by the ascent of the Trebbio you pedal the course rhythmically and with pleasure. Half way you come to Tredozio in the Tramazzo valley: stupendous views and age-old woodlands.

Leaving the village the cyclist re- alises at once that there’s some e sweating to be done. on m a The road goes up towards San- L ta Maria in Castello and some stretches reach the terrible gra- dient of 16%. The ascent flattens out a bit but it’s a short truce be- 4 cause the last stretch is tough and you can use a 28 without feeling ashamed. At the fork of Santa Maria in Castello there are two alternatives: go down towards or head farther south to Monte Busca (709 metres) and arrive at Portico di Romagna. The deviation towards Portico is for those who still have surplus energy and legs ready to eat up the ascent.

From Portico di Romagna you once more pick up the road to Rocca San Casciano until you link up with the main stretch that goes placidly down to Dova- dola and returns, with no more treacherous or uphill runs, to Castrocaro Terme.

5

R 6 Rimini A LAND OF NOBLE HISTORY

1 What to see The Beautiful and Information the Good THERE ISN’T JUST THE SEA The Arch of Augustus and The beautiful Romagna ta- Tour cycling itineraries in AND THE FAMOUS LOW AND the Tiberius Bridge bear wit- blecloths printed with the the province of Rimini ness to Roman Rimini “rust” method are exclusive sport, relaxation and nature SANDY COAST. INCREASINGLY There are many monuments to the south of the region, and in the Romagna hills KNOWN AND APPRECIATED BY indicating Rimini’s Roman throughout the province you Languages: Italian, French, TOURISTS, THE HINTERLAND origins and its role as of find workshops that still make English, German the Malatesta dominions. The them in accordance with tradi- Information: Province of OF THE PROVINCE OF RIMINI, Arch of Augustus, the gate tional techniques. Rimini FEATURING THE VALLEYS OF to the town built in 27 BC and Fax +39 0541 783 808 THE RIVERS MARECCHIA AND recently restored, and the 1st Craftsmen are still working in [email protected] century AD Tiberius Bridge Montefiore and Montecolombo, CONCA, ALSO OFFERS CYCLISTS over the river Marecchia, a producing tableware and terra- IMMENSE SATISFACTION. masterpiece of Roman engi- cotta and ceramics ware. A BIKE TRIP THROUGH THE neering, belong to the Roman VALLEYS IS LIKE FOLLOWING period. The height of seafood cooking consists of grilled fish, fish THE THREADS OF HISTORY The soups and stewed squid, AND NATURE. VALMARECCHIA, dates to the Renaissance washed down with the DOC RUGGED AND FLANKED BY and was commissioned by wines of the “Colli di Rimini” Sigismondo Malatesta and de- which, together with cheeses ROCKY MASSES, PRESERVES signed by . and extra-virgin olive oil, THE MEMORY OF ONE OF THE One of the most significant are part of the basket of typi- FIRST ITALIC CIVILISATIONS, examples of the architecture cal products from the “road of of the period, it contains the wines and flavours”. THE VILLANOVAN CIVILISATION majestic Arca degli Antenati OF VERUCCHIO. VALCONCA, e dei Discendenti, a master- WITNESS TO THE CONTINUAL piece by (1454). DISPUTES BETWEEN THE MALATESTA AND MONTEFELTRO Following in the footsteps of FAMILIES, IS SOFTER THOUGH Federico Fellini, the Maestro of Italian cinema who was AT THE BOUNDARY WITH THE born in Rimini, see Borgo San MARCHES THERE ARE BARE Giuliano, a sailors’ and fisher- 3 4 EROSION FURROWS. men’s quarter which, together with the Grand Hotel, forms part of the Fellini atmosphere.

1. Rimini, Arch of Augustus 2. Rimini, Tiberius Bridge 3. Santarcangelo, printed cloths 4. Rimini, Tempio Malatestiana 5. Rimini, Castel Sismondo 2 5

34 Festivals and Fairs

MARCH › Morciano di Romagna › Festival of San Gregorio Craft and industry products; market exhibition of typical Valconca products. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 851 927)

April › Saludecio › Saluserbe Street market: natural , herbalist products, shows and exhibitions. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 981 621)

JULY › Montecolombo › Tripe and Strozzapreti pasta Fair Gastronomic rejoicing. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 984 471)

AUGUST › Gemmano › Fair of pappardella pasta with wild boar sauce Dedicated to lovers of good cooking. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 854 135)

AUGUST › Montescudo › Potato Fair The big dish of the Festival is the potato, cooked in the most delicious ways. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 984 176 )

September › Coriano › Sangiovese Festival Homage to the red wine of Romagna. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 656 255)

September › , Montebello › Honey Festival The holiday offers are available A meeting with honey and its by-products. Tasting and on the spot honey extraction. www.adriacoast.com (Info: Tel. +39 0541 675 220)

October › Montefiore Conca › Chestnut Fair An autumn event not to be missed, with the choice nut of the Apennine woods. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 980 035)

October › Sant’Agata Feltria › White truffle festival A big celebration of the prize tuber, with a festival that proposes the entire range of autumnal and farming produce as well as local crafts. (Info: Tel. +39 0541 848 022) November › Talamello › L’Ambra di Talamello A big celebration of the this delicious cheese, matured in pits dug into the sandstone rock (Info: Tel. +39 0541 920 036)

35 Rimini

ITINERARY 13 The Romagna hills route

Not to be missed

Santarcangelo di Romagna FROM SANTARCANGELO ONWARDS THE ROUTE FOLLOWS THE FOOTHILLS, WHICH IS TO SAY THE Santarcangelo is a fine and COUNTRY ROAD RUNNING PARALLEL TO THE RIMINI COAST, SO YOU CAN ENJOY EVOCATIVE VIEWS important little town that has maintained its special appea- OF SEA, HILLS AND VILLAGES. rance and powerful links with FROM A CYCLIST’S VIEWPOINT IT IS A MEDIUMDIFFICULT RUN WITH A FINE STRETCH ON THE FLAT its past and traditions. The AND CLIMBS THAT ARE SOMETIMES TOUGH, SO A 35/25 RATIO IS ADVISED. whole historic centre is alive, with well cared for houses and buildings, excellent restau- rants and inns, and alleys and steps that always lead to lively scenes. It is dominated by the Malatesta Fortress and there is much to see: the tufa caves, the Collegiate Church, the Ethnographic Museum (one of the best in Italy) and the Antica Tintoria Marchi (Old Dye-Wor- ks) where there is a 17th cen- tury mangle, still functioning, for rust printing on canvas.

(Info: Tel. Ufficio IAT +39 0541 624 270)

2

The gentle hills of Rimini home of the cobbler-poet Gius- village created by the Malat- From Bellaria Igea Marina tiniano Villa and rightly noted esta Lords which still has its you head for Santarcangelo di for its top quality Sangiovese, imposing fortress and a highly Romagna where the foothills and Morciano which has al- singular circular piazza. In mid road begins, indicated by signs ways been the business centre August the Palio del Daino is and by the wine red colour of of the valley. Then you head for celebrated, one of the best or- the road itself. Saludecio which from the 16th ganised historical evocations to the 19th century was a small in the province of Rimini. You Follow the signs for capital of the area. continue towards Montegri- Sant’Ermete, Ospedaletto dolfo, a renovated mediaeval and Cerasolo. You are im- Refined palazzos and small village that stands guard over mediately immersed in a land- village houses have created a the ridge dividing the Conca scape made up of gentle hills, style at once aristocratic and valley, on the Romagna side, planted fields, vineyards, olive popular which has come down from the Foglia valley on the groves and small villages. A to us intact. Marches side, and the foothills territory where human activi- The village squares and streets road ends at Montegridolfo. ties and nature still have many are enlivened during the first From here you follow the signs points of equilibrium. week of August by the “Otto- for Tavullia, Gradara, Gabicce cento Festival”. and Cattolica. The last stretch In the middle of Valconca of the course is flat: you take After Coriano, where a fine river The ridge between Romagna state road 16 to Bellaria, pass- park has been set up, you head and The Marches ing through the Municipalities of into the Valconca proper. You From Saludecio you take the Misano, Riccione and Rimini. 1 pass through San Clemente, road for Mondaino, a fortified

36 2 m Bellaria Igea Marina Pedrera 2 m Torre 33 m Santarcangelo 48 m S. Martino Mulini 134 m bivio S. Ermete 136 m Cerasolo 40 m Ospedaletto 102 m Coriano 179 m S. Clemente 89 m Morciano 160 m S. Maria del Monte 348 m Saludecio 400 m Mondaino 250 m Montegridolfo 203 m bivio Tavullia 289 m Monteluro 70 m Gradara 0 m Gabicce Mare 2 m Rimini 2 m Bellaria Igea Marina

Km. 0 5 10 15 2025 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120

Departure: Bellaria Igea Marina Arrival: Bellaria Igea Marina Distance: 120 Km Degree of difficulty: medium Maximum altitude: 400 m. Duration: about 4h1 /2

3

1. Santarcangelo, Ganganelli Arch 2. Valmarecchia 3. Coriano, castle 4. Morciano

Cattolica Gabicce Mare

4 Rimini

ITINERARY 14 Mini Nove Colli

Not to be missed

San Leo stands on a huge ro- THE TRAIL WINDS THROUGH THE GENTLY ROLLING HILLS OF THE CESENA DISTRICT, BECOMING cky mass which is completely IMMEDIATELY MORE TAXING UPON ARRIVAL IN THE MONTEFELTRO AREA AND CLOSE TO SAN LEO. impenetrable; the only access route is a road cut into the rock. AFTER LEAVING THE ANCIENT CAPITAL OF ITALY, WE MOVE INTO THE TERRITORY OF SAN MARINO, The highest point of the spur is RETURNING TO BELLARIA THROUGH . THIS IS A ROUTE FOR EXPERT crowned by the inexpugnable CYCLISTS: GEAR 39-27/TRIPLE. fort, reworked by Francesco di Giorgio Martini in the 15th century. It is famous for having been the prison of the Count Challenging ascents from the of Cagliostro. There are nume- very beginning rous other monuments worth visiting: the pre-Romanesque From Bellaria you take the road parish church, the 12th cen- for San Mauro Pascoli and tury Lombard Romanesque Savignano. Heading towards Cathedral, the Museum of Borghi, you come to the first Religious Art recently set up ascent, which leads to Borghi in Palazzo Mediceo, as well as and then to Sogliano. The the ruins of several castles, in- route descends to Bivio Mon- cluding Pietracuta and Piega, tegelli and, after pedalling for E 45 scattered across the territory, 7 kilometres towards Mercato Borghi the Franciscan monastery of Saraceno, you take the uphill road (heading to Barbotto) S. Igne, the Dominican mo- 2 3 nastery of Monte di Pietracu- which has a gradient of 18% ta and Montemaggio church, for one km. From Barbotto, 1. San Leo 4. San Marino S. Giovanni with its a valuable wood case- you proceed towards Savig- in Galilea nano di Rigo and Perticara. 2. Verucchio, la Rocca 5. Talamello ment ceiling. (the fortress) 6. Perticara 3. Santarcangelo, il Campanone 7. Sogliano sul Rubicone (Info: Tel. +39 0541 916 306) Towards San Leo From Perticara, you descend on the crest of the hill, con- towards Novafeltria (ten km), cato tinue towards Rimini as far as ceno turn towards Arezzo and then, Sant’Ermete, where you will after four km (Ponte Baffoni), take the road for Santarcange- take the uphill road (12% gra- lo, followed by that for Bellaria. dient) towards Maiolo until you Savignano reach the highest point of the di Rigo itinerary, which is at the junc- tion for Madonna di Pugliano. At the bottom of the descent you will be beneath the spur of San Leo dominated by the ma- jestic Fort.

Climbing the Mount Titano Leaving San Leo behind you, it is time to climb Mount Titano, taking the road for Castello Montemaggio and then Chie- sanuova. In the territory of the Republic of San Marino, you cycle through the hills, going up and down occasionally and then taking the sharp descent from Monte Ventoso towards 1 Verucchio. At the Dogana fork, 4

38 0 m Bellaria Igea Marina Pascoli 20 m San Mauro Savignano m 32 267 m Borghi 379 m Sogliano sul Rubicone 515 m Barbotto 293 m Novafeltria 630 m Maiolo 580 m San Leo 536 m San Marino 134 m Sant’Ermete 40 m Santarcangelo 0 m Bellaria Igea Marina

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110

Departure: Bellaria Igea Marina Arrival: Bellaria Igea Marina Distance: 119 Km Degree of difficulty: high Maximum altitude: 630 m. Duration: 5 h

Gatteo a Mare Savignano Mare San Mauro Mare

Cesena Bellaria Igea Marina Partenza/Arrivo

Gambettola Torre Pedrera Gatteo San Mauro Viserbella Pascoli 30 Viserba Rivabella Savignano San Giuliano Mare Montiano sul Rubicone Rimini Longiano 6 Santarcangelo 10 Bellariva di Romagna 5 8 Marebello Roncofreddo Rivazzurra 11 10 E 45 Miramare Borghi Marecchia Sant’Ermete

8 Poggio Corpolò Riccione Berni

Sogliano Uso A 14 sul Rubicone S. Giovanni in Galilea S. Patrignano 9 Misano Adriatico Ospedaletto Torriana Porto Montegelli Verucchio 9 Serravalle Coriano 5 Montebello cato ceno 24 15 7 S. Giovanni BBarbottoarbottobottbotbo o Montetiffi in Marignano 9 San Marino Trarivi S. Clemente 515 m 11 Marano 5 Monte Savignano Colombo di Rigo 9 Monte Ponte Baffoni Titano 4 Perticara Montescudo Morciano 739 m 6 di Romagna Talamello 6 Gemmano

8 Novafeltria San Leo Montefiore 3 6 Maiolo Conca Saludecio Montegrimano Onferno

Mondaino Montegridolfo

Sant’Agata Feltria Pennabilli

6 7 Rimini

ITINERARY 15 Valconca, the Malatesta fortresses

Not to be missed

Torriana nature reserve, THE COURSE RUNS THROUGH THE SOUTHERN PART OF THE PROVINCE AMONG THE ANCIENT between nature and history PROPERTY OF THE MALATESTA FAMILY, THE LORDS OF RIMINI. THEY BUILT IMPOSING FORTRESSES An area of 12 square kilo- metres with 20 kilometres of IN EACH IMPORTANT VILLAGE. FROM A CYCLING VIEWPOINT THERE IS A CERTAIN DEGREE OF pathways to cover on foot, DIFFICULTY, WITHOUT EXTRAORDINARY SUFFERING, BUT WITH A SERIES OF RESPECTABLE ASCENTS on horseback or by mountain SUCH AS TO REQUIRE THE USE OF AGILE RATIOS (A 39X26 IS ADVISED FOR CERTAIN STRETCHES). bike. This is the Torriana natu- re reserve that stretches from the cliff of Torriana to that of Verucchio. The reserve safe- guards precious parts of the landscape: woodlands, rocks and erosion furrows that are In the distance, the turrets of the habitat of roe-deer and Gradara porcupine. The reserve also From Rimini you head south includes the mediaeval village following the sea road to of Montebello with its Mala- Cattolica. It’s a very comforta- testa castle and the Saiano ble spin on the flat and just right complex with the Sanctuary for warming up the muscles. and Roman Tower. The Nature Museum and the Environmen- From Cattolica you drift over tal Education Centre are also into Pesaro territory following of interest. the signs for Gradara where you arrive after 15 kilometres. 2 3 (Info: Tel. Comune The view is surprising: the out- +39 0541 675 220) line of the ancient town with its battlement walls punctuated by 1. Montebello, la Rocca dei Guidi 4. Montefiore, la Rocca (the fortress) quadrangular turrets right up to (the fortress) 5. Verucchio, la Rocca (the fortress) the fortress. 2. Verucchio, porta Sant’Agostino 3. Montegridolfo It belonged first to the Malat- esta family then to the Sforza Verucchio, the origins of the at the fork for Ventoso there’s and the Della Rovere families. Malatesta family an 18% descent that offers Under the Malatesta family You continue for Tavoleto, by pleasant sensations though it the fortress was witness to the which point you have covered isn’t the best thing for resting. moving love story of Paolo and 45 kilometres, then there’s a Francesca that inspired Dante’s fairly long descent to get your After 90 kilometres the last passionate verses. breath back until you come to climb is to Verucchio where the foot of the Fortress of Mon- the Malatesta dynasty origi- Montegridolfo, one of the tefiore Conca whose rooms nated. The fortress of Veruc- loveliest villages contain important frescoes by chio, open to visitors, was You ride astride the boundary Jacopo Avanzi. built in 1449 at the behest of between The Marches and Sigismondo Malatesta, the last Romagna in the direction of There’s a surprise around every great member of the family, on Montegridolfo whose castle is bend, a different panorama, the remains of an earlier 12th one of the best preserved in the some aspect of nature or his- century castle. From Verucchio region. The wall enclosing the tory as the route winds its way you head down towards the historic centre is still intact. through Valconca and into the sea and arrive in Rimini. Republic of San Marino. A After Montegridolfo there’s few tough stretches of climb- a brief 2 kilometre climb to ing are inevitable, and they get Mondaino which welcomes less tolerable with the passing the cyclist with a fine view over of the kilometres. the sea that can be enjoyed But following the signs for Acq- 1 from its fortress. uaviva - Arezzo, when you turn

40 2 m Rimini 150 m Gradara 420 m Mondaino 326 m Tavoleto 385 m Montefiore 400 m San Marino 226 m Verucchio 2 m Rimini

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110

Departure: Rimini Arrival: Rimini Distance: 110 Km Degree of difficulty: medium-high Maximum altitude: 420 m. Duration:4h 1/2

4 5 Rimini

ITINERARY 16 Valmarecchia, the Malatesta Seigniory

Not to be missed

San Marino, the towers on YOU PEDAL ALONG A DIFFICULT BUT ALMOST NEVER EXTREME ROUTE IN THE NORTHERN PART OF Mount Titano THE PROVINCE OF RIMINI. THE CLIMBS ARE MOSTLY BRIEF BUT HERE AND THERE THE GRADIENT IS Founded at the end of the 3rd century the little republic has TYRANNICAL. maintained its independen- ON THOSE STRETCHES A “26” WILL HELP YOU KEEP A DECENT RHYTHM AND AVOID PUNISHING YOUR ce for more than 1700 years. MUSCLES WITH LACTIC ACID. It is hard to understand how this citadel on the 749 metres of Mount Titano was able to stand up to the appetites of emperors and popes and pre- serve its autonomy. Certainly much was due to the diplo- First leg to Santarcangelo macy of its governors and a and the up-and-down dance farsighted policy of alliances. begins The Republic of San Marino From Rimini you head towards covers an overall area of 60 Santa Giustina and start the square kilometres. Its impre- up-and-down dance. First gnable capital has retained its objective: Santarcangelo. ancient structure with a triple Dominated by the 15th century city wall built between the 12th Malatesta fortress, the village and 14th centuries and the conceals, underground, an in- three turrets which served as tricate network of caves carved watchtowers and protection out of the tufa. from the enemy. There is a long access tun- (Info: Tel. State Tourism Office nel with niches opening at the sides and terminating in highly +39 0549 882 410) 2 3 evocative circular spaces.

To Torriana, a heartrending climb Fifteen kilometres, uphill more than anything else, separate Santarcangelo from Torriana, perched on a spur of rock from which there is a very clear view of the Adriatic coast. On the final part of the ascent -to Tor riana there’s a heartrending stretch: no less than two kilo- metres with an 18% gradient.

We are at the level of the “wall” in the Tour of Flanders. A point where you can test your physi- cal condition and dedication to cycling.

Towards the Ancient Republic You continue pedalling along the Valley of the Marecchia, the river that reaches the sea in Rimini. 1 From Torriana to Verucchio 4

42 2 m Rimini 350 m Torriana 300 m Verucchio 400 m San Marino 200 m San Patrignano 2 m RImini

Km. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100

Departure: Rimini Arrival: Rimini Distance: 100 Km Degree of difficulty: medium-high Maximum altitude: 400 m. Duration:4h 1/2

there are about fifteen kilome- tres, four of them a fair climb. The final part of the itinerary involves more climbing on the territory of San Marino, the ancient republic, and then a long and uneven drop towards Rimini.

The “Freccia dei due Mari” There’s another great tour cy- cling itinerary that starts from Rimini, crosses the peninsula and ends in Viareggio. The race is held in June. (Info: tel. +39 0541 720 227) 5

1. Republic of San Marino 2. Torriana, Santuario della Madonna di Saiano 3. 4. Santarcangelo, la Rocca (the fortress) 5. Valmarecchia 6. Verucchio

6

Unione Prodotto Costa Palazzo del Turismo Viale Roma, 112 47042 Cesenatico (FC) Tel. +39 0547 675 212 Fax +39 0547 675 192 [email protected] San Mauro Mare www.adriacoast.com Tel. 0541 346 392 - Fax 0541 324111

Photographs: M. Antonelli, L. Bottaro, D. Castellucci, E. Filippi, I. Mingozzi, F. Panzavolta, G. Senni, P. Simoncelli, APT Servizi, Foto Urbinati, Archivio fotografico Comune di Forlì, Assessorati al Turismo delle Province di Ferrara, Ravenna, Forlì- Cesena, Rimini, Assessorati al Turismo dei Comuni costieri, Archivio Unione Costa

Graphic design: Studio Pleiadi - Cesena

Copy: Elisabetta Antognoni

Editorial Co-ordination: Luigi Barberini

Acknowledgements: Daniela Aguzzoni, Silvia Giuliodori

Printed in Octobre 2014 La Pieve Poligrafica s.r.l. Villa Verucchio

Special thanks to: APT Servizi press office; private and public members of the Unione Costa, Serena Barberini and all those who contributed to the production of this catalogue.

Translation: Language Service, Ravenna. FREE DOWNLOAD “ROMAGNAPP”