Authentic Abruzzo
Experience off-the-beaten-path riding in Abruzzo, where every pedal stroke reveals hidden villages,
authentic culture, and breathtaking scenery between mountains and sea.
Undiscovered trails, timeless traditions, and breathtaking vistas
Discover Italy as few ever do - far from the crowds, deep in the heart of Abruzzo, where secret villages cling to mountain sides and ancient roads wind through untouched landscapes.
This journey takes you across off-the-beaten-path routes shaped by the wild beauty of the Maiella and Gran Sasso, offering a cycling experience as raw as it is unforgettable.
You’ll explore quiet medieval towns, limestone hamlets, and hidden hilltop sanctuaries that reveal the region’s soul with every pedal stroke.
Ride through sunlit vineyards, olive groves, and quiet valleys where traditional life goes on much as it has for generations. Visit Lanciano’s historic center, climb up to the mystical Rocca Calascio, and wander through villages so untouched they feel frozen in time. Along the way, taste Abruzzo’s finest - creamy cheeses, rich olive oils, and fresh seafood served on ancient trabocchi overlooking the Adriatic.
With guided and fully supported rides, this is a journey into Italy’s best-kept secret where authenticity, beauty, and adventure still reign untouched.
Guided Hike
Olive Oil Tasting
Cheese Tasting
Non-riders Welcome
Truffle Hunting
Sunrise Ride
Guest Reviews
We just returned from an unforgettable 5-day cycling trip with Italy Bike Tours to celebrate our 10-year anniversary—and we’re still smiling. From start to finish, everything was seamless, stunning, and truly special. We had the absolute joy of joining the legendary "Pink Pony Club"—Marco, Lorenzo, and Simone—who went above and beyond at every step. Their knowledge of the routes, the attention to detail, and the way they catered each ride to match our pace and interests was outstanding. Highly recommend!
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Clive, Alberto and Matt. Thank you for coordinating and booking our tour with Italy Bike Tours. Your team of professionals Stefano and Marco have allowed us to enjoy a brilliant tour and were attentive to every detail. Accommodation, meals, rider supports, wine and coffee experiences were all first rate.
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Italy Bike Tours have delivered another outstanding cycling tour to 6 of us from Australia. Our guides and support personnel were incredibly professional, supportive and flexible. This is my second tour with IBT and once again I thank the whole team for giving us life long memories.
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Great team, awesome location, incredible tour! Our guides Stefano and Matteo were excellent, super fun, very flexible and made the experience all the more enjoyable! Can’t wait to return for our next tour 🫶🏻
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Savi, Anita, Simone and Lucy really made us all feel so welcome. Stunning rides, amazing views and expert knowledge of the regions made it a solid 10/10 trip. Highly recommend for those wanting to ride and experience Italy. Thanks for the memories!
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We’ve just finished two amazing tours with IBT and have loved every minute. The guides have been expert, skilled and very supportive. The additional personal touches like pick-ups and transfers made it a pleasure to travel. Thank you again IBT!
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I just finished the Luxury Lakes and Vineyards tour with IBT and am very happy with the entire experience. The team at IBT take very good care of you from the initial pick-up at the train station to dropping you off at the end - how nice is THAT. Our guides Savi and Anita were superb and knew every pathway and curve of the areas we toured and always had our safety and comfort in mind. Weather can never be certain anywhere in the world and on the one rainy day we got to ‘tough it out’ at a vineyard lunch. Our bikes were ready every morning and in perfect condition. The beauty of the area itself is just breathtaking, the food superb, the wines delicious. Lucy manages the trip and takes care of every detail with grace and efficiency. Thank you to everyone.
Read moreOn the Saddle
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD to on-bike
- Climb off-the-beaten-path routes through Maiella and Gran Sasso.
- Ride through Pennapiedimonte’s limestone villages and rolling hills.
- Cycle past medieval streets of Lanciano’s historic center.
- Ascend to Rocca Calascio and marvel at one of the world’s most beautiful castles.
- Ride through quiet villages and beautiful cultivated fields.
beyond the ride
What to look forward to off-bike
- Dine on seafood and traditional Abruzzese dishes on a "trabocco" overlooking the Adriatic.
- Explore Rocca Calascio and the surrounding Gran Sasso National Park.
- Relax in medieval villages such as Santo Stefano di Sessanio.
- Enjoy scenic walks and photography opportunities along hidden trails.
- Sample handmade gelato while wandering the cobblestone streets of medieval Lanciano.
Itinerary
30 km | 740 m
We begin our adventure at the charming Castello di Semivicoli, where the warm welcome includes a tasting of the estate’s finest olive oils - a true taste of Abruzzo.
After settling in, we’ll prepare our bikes and gather for a briefing on the route and safety essentials, ensuring everyone is ready for the journey ahead. Our first ride takes us through sun-dappled vineyards and rolling hills, culminating in the extraordinary village of Pennapiedimonte, a hidden gem carved almost entirely into the limestone cliffs of the Maiella mountains.
Castello di Semivicoli | Casanditella
43 km | 770 m
Pedal past rolling hills and charming landscapes as you approach its majestic cathedral and medieval old town, where every street and piazza tells a story. A leisurely stroll through the historic center reveals centuries-old architecture and local life frozen in time.
Castello di Semivicoli | Casanditella
7 km | 240 m
Today is all about hiking and discovering the wild beauty of the Maiella. After breakfast, we’ll take a short 45-minute transfer to our starting point at Rifugio Bruno Pomilio, located at 1,888 meters above sea level in the province of Chieti, within the Maiella National Park.
Here we’ll meet our expert hiking guide and set off toward the summit of Monte Blockhaus, where breathtaking panoramic views reward every step.
In the afternoon, a transfer will bring us back to the hotel, giving you time to relax, unwind, and enjoy a delicious dinner after a day of hiking and adventure.
Castello di Semivicoli | Casanditella
40 km | 1180 m
Today’s ride takes you on a scenic journey from the Maiella mountains to the Gran Sasso range, showcasing some of Abruzzo’s most dramatic landscapes.
We’ll start in Popoli Terme, a charming spa town surrounded by rolling hills and lush valleys. The route gradually winds upward, taking you through quaint villages, olive groves, and vineyards, with breathtaking views of rugged peaks and deep river gorges.
As you climb toward the Colle della Croce, the road becomes more challenging, rewarding every effort with panoramic vistas of the Gran Sasso massif and its iconic jagged summits.
After an exhilarating day of cycling, enjoy a well-deserved dinner, celebrating the ride with local flavors and good company.
Albergo Diffuso Sextantio | Santo Stefano di Sessanio
40 km | 800 m
Surrounded by the medieval charm of the village and the stunning views of Gran Sasso National Park, today we’ll visit Rocca Calascio, one of the world’s most beautiful castles. Built from local white stone, this fortress has a long history as a strategic lookout and now stands as an impressive landmark offering incredible views.
The day ends with a tasting of traditional Abruzzo cheeses, led by a local artisan who will share the authentic flavors and stories of the region, making each bite a true taste of the area.
Albergo Diffuso Sextantio | Santo Stefano di Sessanio
30 km | 460 m
On our final ride, we’ll cycle through the gentle hills and ancient villages of Gran Sasso National Park, passing fields, forests, and farmland along quiet roads. The morning light makes the scenery especially beautiful.
Back at the hotel, a fresh breakfast will be waiting, giving you time to relax and savor the final moments of your Abruzzo adventure. Afterwards, your guide will take care of transfers back to Pescara train station. See you on your next Italian adventure!
Dates & Prices
| Dates | Price | Availability | ||
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| Sun 05 Apr - Fri 10 Apr | From €2499 |
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| Sun 19 Apr - Fri 24 Apr | From €2799 |
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| Sun 03 May - Fri 08 May | From €2999 |
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| Thu 14 May - Tue 19 May | From €2999 |
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| Sun 07 Jun - Fri 12 Jun | From €3199 |
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| Sun 21 Jun - Fri 26 Jun | From €3199 |
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| Sun 12 Jul - Fri 17 Jul | From €3199 |
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| Sun 26 Jul - Fri 31 Jul | From €3199 |
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| Sun 23 Aug - Fri 28 Aug | From €3199 |
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| Sun 06 Sep - Fri 11 Sep | From €3199 |
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| Sun 20 Sep - Fri 25 Sep | From €2999 |
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| Sun 04 Oct - Fri 09 Oct | From €2799 |
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| Sun 18 Oct - Fri 23 Oct | From €2499 |
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Ridley Bikes & Gear
Ridley ASTR GRX600 – Explore epic landscapes! Lightweight, responsive, and adventure-ready. Perfect for gravel, touring, and thrill seekers.
Ridley Kalazy – Cruise in comfort with flat handlebars, smooth ride, and stylish design. Ideal for relaxed, scenic holiday cycling.
Ridley Urbx Mixte E-Bike – Glide through your holiday with ease; upright comfort, smooth handling, and stylish design make every ride relaxing, scenic, and unforgettable.
COLNAGO V3
COMPONENTS:
- Shimano 105 12 Speed Di2 Drivetrain (50/34 Chainset and 11-34 Cassette)
- Fulcrum Racing 600 Wheelset
- Pirelli P7 Sport 28mm Tyres
- Shimano 105 Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
- Selle Italia Novus Boost Evo Flow saddle
- (Sizes: XXS(42S), XS(45S), S(48S), M(50S), L(52S), XL(54S), XXL(56S), XXXL(58S))
3T ULTRA
COMPONENTS:
- Shimano GRX 822 1x - 40T 1x Chainset, 12 Speed 10-51T Cassette
- Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 Wheelset
- Shimano GRX Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
- Selle Italia Model X Superflow
- Sizes: 48 - 61
The nuts and Bolts
What's Included
- 5 nights' 4* accommodation
- Transfers (from specified airport/train location)
- All breakfasts
- 3 dinners
- Bike hire & helmet
- Water and coffee are complimentary during meals that are included in the package
- Olive Oil tasting
- Truffle hunting
- Cooking class
- Cheese tasting
- Hike with a hiking guide
- Beautifully planned rides
- Experienced team of local professionals
- GPX Routes
- Van and mechanical support with snacks and water
- Bike cleaning service
- IBT cycling jersey
- IBT water bottle
- City taxes
What's Not Included
- Travel insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
- Flights
- Beverages
- Lunches
- Nutrition
- Tips and gratuities
At a Glance
- Level: This tour is aimed at leisure cyclists. Although it is also popular with more experienced riders.
- Total Kilometres: Approximately 160 km (99 miles) of cycling, plus one hiking day covering 7 km with a 240 m climb.
- When: April - October (best weather for cycling)
- Start: Your vacation starts in Casanditella, a picturesque village perched among rolling hills.
- Finish: The vacation concludes in the enchanting village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a medieval gem perched high in the Gran Sasso mountains.
- Nearest Airport: We recommend flying into Abruzzo Airport (PSR) or Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) for the most convenient options when planning your arrival and departure.
- Top Tip: Don’t forget a small daypack for essentials on non-cycling excursions!
- Average Age of Guest: 55 years old. The oldest cyclist to enjoy this tour being 82 years young.
- Male vs Female % With a roughly balanced mix of male and female participants, this tour is perfect for groups of friends, couples, and families alike.
| Where to Meet |
Please arrange to meet at Pescara train station between at 2 pm on Day 1. A few days before the meeting, we will contact you via WhatsApp to confirm the name of the staff member who will be waiting for you and the exact time. |
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| Drop off Location |
Following the conclusion of the tour we will assist you with planning and booking of onward travel. We will run one transfer to Pescara train station leaving the hotel at 10.30 am. For alternative destinations or departure times, please contact us at the time of booking. |
| Transfer Time |
Please consider eating lunch before we collect you from Pescara train station. The transfer time from Pescara to our start point is 35 mins. On the return the drop off transfer time is 1 hour 20 minutes. |
| Riding in Abruzzo |
The general road conditions in Abruzzo are good, mostly are quite with less traffic. The majority of roads in Abruzzo are tarmac but we will also be riding on some gravel roads - that are in good condition and can be enjoyed on both a road, gravel or E-Bike. |
| Cuisine |
The food, as one may expect in Abruzzo, is simply excellent. This region is famous for its rich and genuine flavors - from arrosticini (delicious grilled lamb skewers) to maccheroni alla chitarra, handmade pasta served with hearty sauces. You’ll also find pecorino cheese, truffles, and mountain honey among its many delights. Restaurants now cater for both vegans and vegetarians, offering creative takes on traditional recipes. And of course, no meal is complete without a glass of local wine such as Montepulciano d’Abruzzo or a craft beer from one of the region’s small breweries. |
| Hotel Facilities |
The first hotel on this tour have pool and gym facilities so we recommend bringing swimming costumes and appropriate clothing. All hotels have air conditioning. Hotels also have good WiFi and bar service. Hotels may charge extra for the use of these facilities. |
| Private Tours & Groups |
We welcome the opportunity to discuss a private tour with you should you be in a group of six or more. A private tour allows you to choose dates and personalise the itinerary according to your requirements. |
| Weather |
The weather in Abruzzo is excellent 7 months a year. It can be hot in July and August and those that prefer to ride in cooler conditions should consider joining us in April, May, September or October. Ride times maybe adjusted to take in to account for weather. |
| What Happens Next? |
Are you thinking about joining us? You probably have some questions! There are a number of ways to contact us, email is best, we will reply within 24 hours. Please check your SPAM/JUNK folder should you not have received an email in this time. You can also find a contact form at the bottom of this page. If you’d like help arranging any hotels or activities before or after your tour, please contact lynn@italybiketours.com. |
Hotels
CASTELLO DI SEMIVICOLI ★★★★
SEXTANTIO ALBERGO DIFFUSO ★★★★
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Get In Touch
If you would prefer to give us a call and talk cycling and Italy, please WhatsApp us on the number below and we will arrange a call back! ITA: +39 320 638 4713
Or you can chat to us online by clicking the button at bottom right of page. Drop us a direct email to: info@italybiketours.com
