4.4
(51)
379
riders
47
rides
Touring cycling around Picciano, a village in Italy's Abruzzo region, offers diverse landscapes for cyclists. The area features rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, leading towards the Apennine peaks and the Adriatic coastline. This region provides a blend of quiet country roads and more challenging mountain ascents, characteristic of central Italy's varied terrain. Cyclists can explore routes through pastoral countryside and historic villages.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
4.0
(3)
16
riders
74.4km
05:36
1,810m
1,810m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
20
riders
65.4km
04:52
1,460m
1,460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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8
riders
30.3km
02:05
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
18
riders
32.6km
02:17
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
19.7km
01:25
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Many visitors call it an unforgettable experience and an absolute must-do in Abruzzo. This is not an ordinary restaurant, but a unique DIY barbecue in the middle of the Campo Imperatore plateau. You choose your meat from the local butcher, your smoldering barbecue is ready for you to cook. Simply enjoy a meal with a spectacular view over the plateau. Those who want to avoid the crowds should come in May, June, September, or October. In July and August and on sunny weekends, it can be very popular and long queues often form. The location is usually open from April to November, typically daily from 09:00 to 19:00. The establishment closes during the winter months, as the plateau often disappears under a thick layer of snow.
2
0
Although the Cattedrale di San Massimo (the Duomo of Penne) is currently completely scaffolded for extensive restoration and earthquake-resistant reinforcement works, a visit to this historic site is absolutely worthwhile. Climb the hill and discover the monument's rich history. Even from the outside and in the accessible parts, you can sense the centuries-old atmosphere and get a glimpse into the archaeological treasures and stories this special cathedral has to offer. Some facts: the Duomo was built on pagan foundations. The cathedral stands on the Colle Sacro (the Sacred Hill). The early Christian church was founded even before the year 1000, directly on top of the remains of an old Roman temple. The road to the cathedral via the narrow, steep streets from Porta San Francesco is a historical experience in itself. The Duomo marks the highest point of Penne. Even with scaffolding around the facade, the square in front of the church offers a spectacular panoramic view over the roofs of the Città del Mattone and the surrounding Abruzzese hills.
4
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De Porta San Francesco is the most monumental and iconic city gate of the historic town of Penne, located on four hills. The gate forms the main entrance to the medieval center and is a striking example of local architecture. The gate owes its name to Francis of Assisi, who according to legend visited Penne on September 16, 1216. He came to the city at the time to establish peace between two violent, rival family clans. In memory of this historic visit, the original medieval city gate was later named after him. Although the origin of the gate is medieval, its current baroque appearance dates from 1780 (with later adjustments around 1870). The gate, to be renovated, came from the drawing board of architect Francesco Di Sio and was completely rebuilt, along with the adjacent buildings. Since then, they have formed a monumental, stylish entrance to 'the city of brick'. Bonus: if you stand in front of the gate and look closely, you will see the patron saint of Penne, San Massimo, at the top of the gate.
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The round church of San Nicola was built in the 19th century to a design by engineer Dottorelli. From the outside, its unusual shape is immediately striking: a cylindrical building that, interrupted by pilasters, rises above the lower annexes of the church. On the side of Corso Alessandrini, the church has a simple brick facade, adorned with a small aedicule and a triangular tympanum. On the side of Largo San Francesco, the bell tower particularly catches the eye, with its double arched opening and tympanum-shaped crowning. Together, these elements give the church a restrained yet characteristic appearance.
3
0
Too crowded, too many motorcyclists. Contrasts with the magic of the Plain
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It is located at the intersection of Colle del Duomo and Colle Castello, the two main hills on which the old city developed.
0
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The façade dates back to the renovation in 1955 after the war damage of the Second World War.
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Penne is a charming medieval village perched on a hill, characterized by picturesque streets and a rich historical and artistic heritage. https://www.abruzzocitta.it/comune/penne/
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There are over 30 touring cycling routes available around Picciano, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored 38 routes in total.
Touring cycling around Picciano offers a diverse range of terrains. You can expect vineyard-dotted rolling hills, quiet country roads through olive groves, and routes that lead towards the more challenging Apennine peaks. The region provides a blend of pastoral countryside and varied elevation changes.
While many routes around Picciano are rated as difficult, there are some moderate options available. For example, the Bike loop from Vivai Pianti Martinelli is a moderate 19.7 km (12.2 miles) route that takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete, offering a less strenuous option.
While cycling around Picciano, you can encounter various natural and historical landmarks. Routes often pass through olive groves and vineyards. You might also find highlights such as the Atri Badlands, the Atri Calanchi Cycle Route, or enjoy a View of the Majella and Gran Sasso mountains. Historic towns like Loreto Aprutino and Penne, with sites like Porta di San Francesco, are also along some routes.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Picciano are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Hotel L'Avite – Olive Groves Near Penne loop from Loreto Aprutino, the challenging Bike loop from Villa Cipressi, and the Tavo loop from Penne, all offering circular journeys.
The Abruzzo region, including Picciano, is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring and early autumn offer milder temperatures and beautiful landscapes, making them ideal for exploring the diverse terrains from rolling hills to coastal paths. Summer can be warm, especially in lower elevations, but mountain routes provide cooler options.
While many routes around Picciano involve significant elevation changes, the broader Abruzzo region offers more gentle options. For family-friendly cycling, consider sections of the 'Bike to Coast' cycle path along the Adriatic coastline, which provides flat rides with extensive sea views. These are generally more accessible for families, though not directly from Picciano itself.
The quiet roads and natural landscapes around Picciano and the Abruzzo region can be suitable for cycling with dogs, provided your dog is accustomed to such activity and you follow local regulations regarding pets in public spaces and natural parks. Always ensure your dog's safety and comfort, especially on longer or more challenging routes.
Abruzzo is unique for its unparalleled combination of diverse terrains, from the dramatic Apennine peaks of Majella and Gran Sasso National Parks to serene coastal routes along the Adriatic. Starting from Picciano, cyclists can explore vineyard-dotted hills, quiet medieval villages, and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere away from mass tourism, all while experiencing authentic Italian culture and gastronomy.
Picciano is a smaller village, and public transport options directly to specific trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to larger towns like Penne or Loreto Aprutino, from where many routes begin. For detailed information on regional public transport, consulting local tourist information centers upon arrival would be beneficial.
In Picciano and nearby towns like Loreto Aprutino and Penne, you can typically find public parking areas. When planning your route, look for designated parking in the town centers or near popular starting points. It's always a good idea to check for local signage regarding parking restrictions.
The touring cycling routes in Picciano are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and olive groves to views of the Apennine mountains, as well as the quiet roads and the authentic Italian experience.
Yes, while Picciano is inland, the Abruzzo region offers routes with stunning views. Some touring routes in the area provide distant views of the Majella and Gran Sasso mountains, such as the View of the Majella and Gran Sasso highlight. For direct Adriatic coastline views, you would need to venture towards the 'Bike to Coast' cycle path, which is easily accessible within the wider Abruzzo region.


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