Calabria Parks Cycleway

Ride across the spine of Calabria on a route that links the region’s four big green gems: Pollino, Sila, Serre, and Aspromonte. Think mountain villages, chestnut forests, cool plateaus, and balcony roads with surprise views of both the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas.

It’s a climby, mostly paved adventure with a few rough or gravel bits near park sections and access roads. Traffic varies: expect quiet stretches in the highlands and busier approach roads near towns, with occasional cycleway segments. A light touring or endurance road bike with 28–35 mm tires is a sweet spot.

Highlights: the lake-studded Sila plateau, twisty descents into hill towns (espresso stops guaranteed), and long ridge runs that feel a world away. Services pop up regularly in villages, but carry extra water between park crossings.

Best time: spring and autumn—summer heat here is real. You can ride it north–south or the other way. Trains along both coasts help with access and bailout options.

If you’re into big climbs, small places, and protected landscapes back-to-back, this one’s a classic.