Ottaviano, at the foot of Vesuvius
The itinerary starts in Guardiaregia in the Matese Regional Park, a karstic area rich in caves and covered in forests: breathtaking landscapes are guaranteed. Enjoy the descent to Bocca della Selva. Then travel through Cusano Mutri, known for its porcini mushroom festival, Cerreto Sannita, where an excellent extra virgin olive oil is produced, then Telese Terme, with its lake of the same name, in the heart of the Telesina Valley. Sulphurous water springs flow here, feeding the thermal spas. The area was already known to the Romans, the ruins of ancient Telesia are just a few kilometres from the town.
After a stop at the thermal baths to rest your legs, proceed to Valle di Maddaloni where famous annurca apples are cultivated. Admire the Ponti della Valle, a three-tiered viaduct built in the 18th century by Luigi Vanvitelli, inspired by the ancient Roman aqueducts. When it was built, it was the longest bridge in Europe, able to withstand three violent earthquakes. Also visit Maddaloni Castle and the Sanctuary of San Michele and Santa Maria del Monte. Today's final destination is Ottaviano, at the foot of Vesuvius, where the Medici Castle is located.
Maiori, along the Amalfi Coast
The second stage begins heading towards the sea via Pompeii, where it’s worth giving yourself your first break. From Castellammare di Stabia, follow the coast to Vico Equense, then continue with a fun up and down on the Monti Lattari, in the middle of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Take a breath, you have just arrived on the Amalfi Coast. Treat yourself to a stop in Positano for a stroll through the narrow streets of steps leading to the beach of Marina Grande, where you can take a regenerative swim before setting off again.
From here on you will travel along the coastal road through Amalfi. Get ready to take a thousand photos. If your legs aren't too tired, take a detour to Ravello to visit its villas and look out from the Terrazza dell'Infinito, then stop in Minori to sample the sweets of renowned pastry chef Sal De Riso. Today's tour ends a little further on, in beautiful Maiori.
Acerno, ready for the climb?
The third stage continues along the Amalfi Coast, heading for the charming seaside village of Cetara, built in a fan shape along the coast. You will also visit Vietri sul Mare, famous for its ceramics. Stop in Salerno to visit the Castle of Arechi and the Cathedral and say hello to the sea. From here on, you will head inland again towards Giffoni Valle Piano, known for its children's film festival. The slopes become steep as we climb towards Monte Telegrafo, then descend towards Acerno where today's stage ends.
Laviano, in the Upper Sele Valley
The last stage begins by pedalling uphill to the 1100 metres of Monte Balzata from where the descent to Calabritto, famous for its 14 waterfalls with over 23 jumps, starts. From here onwards you continue at 440/500 metres until you reach Laviano in the Upper Sele Valley, part of the Monti Eremita Nature Reserve. There is also an adrenaline-pumping Tibetan bridge, 80 metres high and 90 metres long. Ideal for not giving up on the adventure even after getting off the bike.
