Embark on an unforgettable 7-day / 6-night journey through the heart of Aspromonte’s Grecanic area. This remote region has preserved its unique language, Grecanic, since the days of Magna Graecia, thanks to centuries of geographical isolation.
Cycling along quiet, scenic roads, you will discover ancient villages, breathtaking landscapes overlooking the Strait of Messina, and the wild, untamed beauty of Calabria.
Day 1: Reggio Calabria – Pentidattilo | 42 km, 1,539 m
Begin your journey with a warm welcome from our guide and team, including bicycle setup and essential information. Departure is by 2:00 PM. Your route leads to the Castle of Sant’Aniceto, a well-preserved Byzantine fortress with sweeping views of the coast and the Strait of Messina. Passing through charming villages and peaceful farmland, you will reach Pentidattilo, an abandoned village perched on a rocky cliff, named for its hand-shaped mountain. Enjoy a stunning panorama, explore the village, and soak in the timeless atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay at a rural guesthouse.
Day 2: Pentidattilo – Amendolea | 34 km, 1,100 m
Cycle through quiet countryside to Bagaladi, a serene village surrounded by citrus groves and the scent of bergamot. The route becomes wilder as you climb toward Monte Scafi, with forests, gorges, and rocky outcrops offering spectacular views. Continue to Gallicianò, “the village of the Greek soul,” where Grecanic culture and language thrive. End the day in Amendolea, surrounded by olive groves and citrus orchards, a perfect place to rest and enjoy local flavors. Dinner and overnight at an agriturismo.
Day 3: Amendolea – Bova | 37 km, 1,700 m
Starting in the rugged Amendolea valley, ride past the ruins of a Norman castle and climb to Rocca del Drago, offering dramatic views of deep gorges and the Aspromonte mountains. Arrive in Bova, one of Calabria’s most picturesque Greek villages, perched on a rocky spur. Wander its cobbled streets, admire stone houses, and experience a timeless atmosphere. Optional visit to the Grecanic Culture Museum. Dinner at a local restaurant and overnight in a B&B.
Day 4: Bova – Palizzi | 43 km, 1,072 m
Climb from Bova before descending toward Staiti, a small village suspended between sky and sea. Continue to Palizzi, one of Calabria’s oldest and most charming villages, with winding streets and the remains of a medieval castle. A stage where nature, history, and tranquility meet in perfect harmony. Dinner and overnight at rural accommodation.
Day 5: Palizzi – Bianco | 43 km, 515 m
Descend toward the Ionian coast, passing golden beaches along the way. In Bianco, a picturesque seaside town surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, enjoy the sea breeze and gentle light. Perfect for relaxing after days of mountain cycling. Opportunity to visit the mosaics of the Roman villa of Casignana
Dinner and overnight in a hotel.
Day 6: Bianco – Antonimina | 55 km, 1,600 m
Head inland again along quiet roads lined with almond and cork trees. Reach the Pietra Cappa, an impressive natural monolith and symbol of the Aspromonte National Park. Descend to Antonimina, a peaceful village among hills and woods. Dinner at a local farm allows you to savor authentic Calabrian dishes. Overnight at rural accommodation.
Day 7: Antonimina – Reggio Calabria | Transfer by Train or Minibus
After breakfast, visit Gerace and its Byzantine cathedral and return to Reggio di Calabria in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
Santa Maria cathedral, Gerace in Calabria, Italy
11 April & 23 May
In these authentic corners, you won’t just find traditional hotels, bed & breakfasts, or farm stays.
The locals, who have remained to safeguard these lands, have lovingly restored many abandoned homes, turning some into charming accommodations. Here, travelers can spend the night in centuries-old houses once inhabited by farmers and shepherds, enjoying a truly unique experience, surrounded by history and the timeless simplicity of rural life. This is exactly what awaits you in Pentidattilo and Antonimina.
Half-board accommodation from dinner on the first day to breakfast on the last, in double/twin rooms (exclusive-use bathroom not guaranteed)
Packed lunches for the midday meals
Transfers to/from the airport or train station
Certified hiking/environmental guide
Luggage transport for all stages of the trip
Trekking bike rental: €20 per day
E-bike rental: €40 per day
This is a physically demanding tour, due both to daily elevation changes and numerous stretches on dirt roads. A good level of fitness and solid technical skills are therefore required.
E-bike rental is recommended for those who are less experienced or not in peak physical condition.
Food is an essential part of the journey: you’ll enjoy simple yet flavorful local dishes, prepared with ingredients from the region — olive oil, sheep’s cheese, traditional bread, seasonal vegetables, and Calabrian wines.
Dining in these establishments offers a convivial experience and a chance to discover the authentic flavors of Calabria, blending pastoral traditions with Mediterranean influences.
In the morning, you’ll be greeted with a hearty breakfast: Italian coffee, homemade jams, fresh fruit, and traditional pastries — the perfect start to each day of cycling.
