4.6
(122)
906
riders
54
rides
Mountain biking around Civitella Casanova offers diverse terrain within the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park. The region features a mix of mountainous landscapes, including canyons and elevated plateaus. Riders can expect trails that traverse natural parks and connect various landmarks and refuges.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
5.0
(9)
83
riders
33.1km
03:27
1,040m
1,040m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.8
(11)
44
riders
35.2km
03:24
820m
820m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(5)
26
riders
52.9km
05:10
1,650m
1,650m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
riders
15.8km
01:27
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
12
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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The story of Pupo Nunzio di Roio from October 1919 is one of the most poignant historical tragedies of the Abruzzo region. It symbolises the harsh and dangerous reality of the transumanza (the seasonal migration of livestock), which for centuries determined the economic and social life of this Italian mountain region. This place commemorates one of the most tragic events in the history of the transumanza, the age-old migration where shepherds drove their sheep every summer to the green pastures of Campo Imperatore and returned in the autumn to the warmer plains of Puglia. In the autumn of 1919, the 41-year-old shepherd Nunzio Pupi, better known as Pupo Nunzio, postponed the descent for a few days. The autumn was exceptionally mild, and he wanted to let his flock of no less than 5,000 sheep graze for as long as possible. But the weather unexpectedly turned. A fierce snowstorm caught him by surprise in the middle of the high plain. Together with his two young sons, Idolo (12) and Alfredo (11), and their loyal sheepdog, he became disoriented in the snow. None of them survived the icy storm. The entire flock also perished. According to local legend, his wife Ersilia Caruso could not cope with the loss of her husband, her children, and their sole source of livelihood. She died a short time later, consumed by grief. This moving story recalls the hard life of the shepherds, who were completely dependent on nature and often paid a high price for their existence. About the monument: Monument of Fonte Vetica In Fonte Vetica, on the southeastern plateau of Campo Imperatore, stands an impressive monument commemorating the tragedy of 1919. The Abruzzese sculptor Vicentino Michetti immortalised the shepherd, his two sons, and their dog as they desperately fought against the icy snowstorm. A little further away stands the statue of the mother, with outstretched arms directed towards the mountains, hoping to see her family return alive. Although the monument tells one poignant story, it has become a tribute to all the shepherds of Abruzzo who, over the centuries, risked their lives during the arduous transumanza. Anyone who stops at Fonte Vetica today immediately feels the impressive combination of overwhelming beauty and the unforgiving power of this mountain landscape.
2
0
There's 2 rooms, one is locked and the other is open. The open one is big enough to sleep 4 people. There's a broom to clean a bit.
0
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Open on Saturdays and Sundays in autumn and winter, excellent arrosticini
0
0
A small shelter, a bit battered but essential in cold and bad weather. I believe it's always open.
0
0
A small refuge with a panoramic view named after the eldest. It has all the amenities, including a fountain. It's very important to maintain and respect these structures, which can be a real lifesaver for travelers.
0
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Unfortunately, it's not always open, but you'll find a fountain nearby.
0
0
An immense plain surrounded by mountains, with horses and cows grazing freely.
0
0
what beautiful places to cycle
0
0
There are over 50 mountain bike trails around Civitella Casanova, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has recorded 53 tours in the area.
Yes, Civitella Casanova offers 5 easy mountain bike trails. A good option for beginners is the Statue of the Faithful Guardian – Voltigno Farmhouse loop from Parco Nazionale di Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, which is 6.3 miles (10.1 km) long and features a manageable elevation gain of around 215 meters.
For experienced riders, there are 20 difficult mountain bike trails. A challenging option is the Monte Cappucciata – Voltigno Farmhouse loop from Parco Nazionale di Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, covering 12.3 miles (19.7 km) with over 640 meters of elevation gain.
Trail durations and distances vary significantly. For example, a moderate route like the Statue of the Faithful Guardian – Voltigno Farmhouse loop from Santa Maria is 9.8 miles (15.8 km) and takes about 1 hour 27 minutes. More challenging trails can extend to over 20 miles and take more than 3 hours.
While specific 'family-friendly' designations are not always available, the 5 easy trails in the area are generally suitable for families with some cycling experience. These routes tend to have less elevation and shorter distances, making them more accessible.
The terrain around Civitella Casanova is diverse, primarily within the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park. Riders can expect a mix of mountainous landscapes, including dramatic canyons like the Scoppaturo Canyon, elevated plateaus, and rural paths. Trails often connect various landmarks and refuges.
Many trails offer scenic views and pass by notable landmarks. You might encounter natural features like the Scoppaturo Canyon, the Capo la Serra Pass, or the Lake Capodacqua. Some routes also lead past cultural sites or traditional farmhouses.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Civitella Casanova are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Scoppaturo Canyon – Shepherd and Family Statue loop and the Rifugio Pantani – Statue of the Faithful Guardian loop.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse national park terrain, the dramatic canyons, and the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels.
Given its mountainous landscape within the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking, with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, especially at lower elevations, while winter may bring snow to higher areas, limiting access.
Yes, some routes pass by or are near refreshment points. For instance, the Mucciante Refreshment Stop is a known spot in the wider region that riders might encounter or plan to visit, offering a chance to refuel during or after a ride.
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many routes start from villages or designated areas within the national park where parking is typically available. It's advisable to check the specific tour details on komoot for starting points and potential parking information.
Access to trailheads in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park area, including Civitella Casanova, is generally easier by car. Public transport options might be limited, especially for reaching more remote starting points. Planning your route and checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended if relying on public transport.


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