The best cycling routes around San Luca
5.0
(15)
124
riders
19
rides
Touring cycling routes around San Luca traverse a diverse landscape, characterized by coastal areas, rolling hills, and the more rugged terrain of the Aspromonte National Park. The region offers a mix of paved roads and quieter paths suitable for touring bicycles. Elevation changes are common, ranging from gentle slopes near the coast to more significant climbs in the inland areas.
Best touring cycling routes around San Luca
- The most popular touring cycling route is Benestare and Bovalino from Ardore – loop tour, a 15.1 miles (24.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 41 minutes to complete. This route connects several towns in a loop, offering varied scenery.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Gambarie to Menta Reservoir Loop, a difficult 25.1 miles (40.4 km) path. This route winds through mountainous terrain towards the Menta Reservoir.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Ferruzzano and the cliff of Africo – loop from Bianco, a 21.1 miles (33.9 km) trail leading through coastal and cliffside landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 19 minutes.
- Touring cycling around San Luca is defined by coastal roads, rolling hills, and sections within the Aspromonte National Park. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in San Luca are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 15 reviews. More than 125 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore San Luca's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
riders
24.3km
01:42
460m
470m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle loop from Ardore, covering 15.1 miles (24.3 km) with a significant 1513 feet (461 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route, estimated to take 1 hour and 41 minutes, guides you through the varied landscapes of Reggio Calabria. You will pedal through coastal plains, olive groves, and citrus plantations, transitioning into pine forests as you climb towards the elevated settlement of Benestare, known for its white plaster houses. Along the way, enjoy expansive views of the Ionian Sea and the majestic Aspromonte Mountains, experiencing both coastal stretches and rolling hills.
As a difficult touring bicycle route, this loop demands very good fitness and preparation for significant climbs and descents. The terrain transitions from coastal areas to rolling hills and mountain foothills, requiring a versatile cycling approach. While specific details on trailhead access or parking are not provided, planning your ride to account for the route's challenging nature is essential. Ensure your bicycle is in excellent condition and carry sufficient water and supplies for the duration of your 1 hour and 41 minute journey.
This region of Calabria offers a unique blend of diverse landscapes and historical significance. The Ionian hills, with their characteristic white calcareous sandstone, reveal a landscape once used as a natural defensive stronghold and a place of meditation for Basilian monks. The route provides a glimpse into local life in towns like Bovalino and may pass by historical sites such as the feudal castle near Ardore, offering a rewarding exploration of Southern Italy's less-traveled parts.
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riders
40.4km
02:56
910m
900m
This difficult 25.1-mile touring cycling loop from Gambarie to Lago del Menta offers panoramic views and 2969 feet of elevation gain.
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5.0
(1)
5
riders
33.9km
02:20
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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4
riders
24.0km
01:39
410m
410m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle loop from Bovalino, covering 14.9 miles (24.0 km) with a total elevation gain of 1355 feet (413 metres). This route, estimated to take 1 hour and 39 minutes, guides you through the captivating landscapes of Calabria. You will cycle past ancient woods and extensive olive groves, experiencing the region's unspoiled nature. The air carries Mediterranean scents, especially as you approach the Bovalino Lungomare, offering a refreshing coastal feel.
The starting point for this touring bicycle adventure is conveniently located in Bovalino, easily accessible if you are using public transport. While the majority of the route is paved, be prepared for a few unpaved sections where you might need to dismount and push your bike. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before you set out, ensuring a smooth ride. This moderate loop is a great option for a morning or afternoon excursion.
This touring bicycle route offers a unique perspective on Calabria, nestled between the dramatic Aspromonte mountains and the serene Ionian Sea. You will discover a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness as you traverse the region. The trail highlights the unspoiled character of the area, providing a genuine connection to its environment. It is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local scenery and Mediterranean atmosphere.
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Other adventures around San Luca
Tips from the Community
Delianuova, located on the slopes of Aspromonte between 600 and 800 m above sea level, is a Calabrian municipality surrounded by vast olive groves, a symbol of the local economy. Renowned for the Carmelia area and its lush woods, it is a popular destination for those who want to escape on summer days or look for precious autumn mushrooms.
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Lake Menta, nestled in the heart of Aspromonte, is a corner of serenity surrounded by lush forests. Built in 1968, the Menta Dam is a grandiose hydraulic construction with the aim of definitively resolving the problems relating to the water supply of Reggio Calabria.
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Place of great silence and solitude. During a half-hour stop not a living soul passed by.
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Here, in the lands of Aspromonte, you can immerse yourself in unspoiled and wild nature, which stands out among the most fascinating and precious in Italy. The Aspromonte National Park, with its vast mountainous territories, dense forests, impetuous torrents and majestic peaks, offers a unique and spectacular environment. Exploring this paradise, you will be able to admire an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, let yourself be enveloped by the tranquility of the centuries-old woods and face exciting excursions to discover breathtaking panoramas. Aspromonte is an unmissable destination for nature lovers and adventurers looking for authentic and unforgettable experiences.
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It is a ghost town, uninhabited since the early 1900s following a terrible earthquake that forced the surviving inhabitants to migrate towards the coast.
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At this point you can take a small detour to go to the Ardore viewpoint. It's a good vantage point from which to take some pictures.
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Small town with just over two thousand inhabitants built on the eastern slope of the Aspromonte.
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Municipality located in an elevated position that can be reached by beautiful panoramic roads on the Aspromonte. It is not for nothing that the name of the town would seem to derive from "good stay", confirming the privileged position of this town.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around San Luca?
There are over 15 touring cycling routes around San Luca, offering a variety of experiences from coastal rides to mountain climbs. The region is known for its diverse landscape, including rolling hills and sections within the Aspromonte National Park.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in San Luca?
While the majority of routes around San Luca are rated as difficult, there are a couple of easier options available. These routes typically feature gentler slopes closer to the coast, providing a more relaxed cycling experience for beginners or families.
What is the typical difficulty level of touring cycling routes in San Luca?
Touring cycling routes in San Luca are predominantly challenging, with 14 out of 17 routes rated as difficult. These often involve significant elevation changes as you move from coastal areas into the more rugged terrain of the Aspromonte National Park. There is also one moderate route available, such as the Benestare and Careri – loop from Bovalino.
What kind of distances can I expect on touring cycling routes around San Luca?
The touring cycling routes around San Luca vary in length. For example, the Benestare and Bovalino from Ardore – loop tour is about 24.3 km (15.1 miles), while longer routes like From Delianuova, a ring tour in the Aspromonte National Park along the Calabria Parks Cycle Route extend to approximately 63.2 km (39.3 miles).
Are there any circular touring cycling routes near San Luca?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around San Luca are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Benestare and Bovalino from Ardore – loop tour, the challenging Gambarie to Menta Reservoir Loop, and the scenic Ferruzzano and the cliff of Africo – loop from Bianco.
What natural attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The region offers several natural attractions. You can cycle through parts of the Aspromonte National Park, encounter the beautiful Maesano Waterfalls, or even spot the impressive St. Peter's Rocks. The routes often provide views of the Aspromonte mountain range, including Montalto (1956 m).
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in San Luca?
The touring cycling routes in San Luca are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied scenery, from coastal roads to the rugged beauty of the Aspromonte National Park, and the network of paths suitable for touring bicycles.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in San Luca?
The best time for touring cycling in San Luca generally depends on your preference for weather and terrain. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, ideal for tackling the region's rolling hills and mountain sections. Summer can be warm, especially in coastal areas, while winter might bring cooler conditions to higher elevations within the Aspromonte National Park.
Are there cafes or viewpoints along the touring cycling routes in San Luca?
Many routes in the San Luca area pass through or near small towns and villages where you can find local cafes and refreshment stops. Given the region's diverse landscape, particularly the coastal and elevated sections, you'll often encounter numerous viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the sea or the Aspromonte mountains.
What should I wear for cycling in San Luca during spring?
In spring, the weather in San Luca can be variable. It's advisable to wear layers that can be adjusted to changing temperatures. A moisture-wicking base layer, a cycling jersey, and a lightweight windproof or waterproof jacket are recommended. Don't forget cycling shorts, gloves, and appropriate footwear for comfort on longer rides.
Are there less crowded alternatives for touring cycling around San Luca?
While the main routes are popular, exploring some of the less-trafficked inland roads or paths within the Aspromonte National Park can offer a quieter experience. These areas often provide a more secluded ride away from coastal traffic, allowing for a deeper immersion in the natural landscape.
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