4.5
(123)
1,212
riders
22
rides
Touring cycling routes around Scalea navigate a diverse landscape, situated along the Tyrrhenian Sea and backed by the mountainous Pollino National Park. The region features dramatic rocky cliffs, hidden beaches, and the river valleys of the Lao. This area provides a mix of coastal roads and challenging inland climbs, with varied terrain for different cycling preferences.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4
riders
21.3km
01:23
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
32
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
28
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
29
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
23
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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to be done out of season!
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Cyclable path on a characteristic stretch of coast of Cirella
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Nice cycle path along a stretch of characteristic coast
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Characteristic coastal stretch of Cirella
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The Norman castle of Scalea is located on the top of the medieval village and was built in the 11th century on a previous Longobard fortress. Today only the ruins of the perimeter walls and a tower remain, which offer a splendid view of the sea and the town.
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Scalea is a medieval village located on a terraced hill a few minutes from the sea. Its historic center is a labyrinth of stairways, alleys, arches and ancient buildings, where it is possible to visit the Norman Castle, the Basilian churches with Byzantine frescoes, the Palazzo dei Principi Spinelli and the Talao Tower, symbol of the city.
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Marina di Santa Maria del Cedro is a seaside resort in the province of Cosenza on the Riviera dei Cedri, between Scalea and Diamante. Its beach is characterized by fine sand and gravel, bathed by a crystalline blue sea and at the mouth of the Abatemarco river.
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The Ficara waterfall is part of the Valle del Fiume Argentino nature reserve, and is fed by the water brought from the Ficara canal. In this area there are various animals, including roe deer, wild boars, foxes and hares.
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There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Scalea, offering a diverse range of experiences from coastal rides to challenging inland climbs. The komoot community has explored these routes over 300 times.
The region generally offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn are ideal, with milder temperatures perfect for exploring both coastal and mountain routes. Summer can be hot, especially for inland climbs, but coastal rides remain popular.
Scalea's touring cycling routes feature a varied terrain. You'll find flat coastal roads along the Tyrrhenian Sea, winding paths through river valleys like the Lao, and challenging climbs into the mountainous Pollino National Park. This diversity caters to different cycling preferences and fitness levels.
Yes, Scalea offers several routes suitable for beginners. For example, the The Riviera between Scalea and Santa Maria del Cedro – loop tour is a moderate ride that follows the coastline, providing scenic views without overly strenuous climbs. There are 2 easy routes and 8 moderate routes available.
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Scalea offers 13 difficult routes that venture inland towards the Pollino Mountains. Routes like the Lao River Bridge – Maierà loop from Scalea-Santa Domenica Talao involve significant elevation changes and rewarding descents.
The touring cycling routes in Scalea are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 25 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning coastal views, the dramatic mountain scenery, and the variety of terrain that keeps rides interesting.
Yes, you can find routes that include natural attractions like waterfalls. For instance, the Orsomarso Rock Formation – Ficara Waterfall loop from Scalea-Santa Domenica Talao will take you past the beautiful Ficara Waterfall.
Many routes in Scalea offer spectacular coastal views. The Praia a Mare Beach – View of Dino Island loop from Scalea-Santa Domenica Talao is a great option, providing scenic coastal views and glimpses of Dino Island.
Yes, Scalea is rich in history. You can cycle past or visit sites like the Historic Centre of Scalea, with its medieval village and ancient buildings. Other notable landmarks include the Fiuzzi Tower and the Norman Castle Ruins of Scalea.
While cycling around Scalea, you'll encounter diverse natural features. These include the dramatic rocky cliffs and hidden beaches of the Tyrrhenian Sea coastline, the lush river valleys of the Lao, and the rugged, forested landscapes of the Pollino National Park, Italy's largest natural park.
Yes, Scalea serves as a gateway to the Pollino National Park. While many routes venture into its foothills, more demanding options like 'Scalea - Mormanno' (not listed in this guide) are suitable for well-trained cyclists looking to explore the park's challenging climbs and breathtaking panoramas.
For those interested in longer adventures, the region is part of the broader 'Calabria Parks Cycle Route,' which offers a multi-day experience traversing natural parks. While specific long-distance routes are not detailed in this guide, the varied terrain provides ample opportunity to link shorter tours for extended rides.
Many of the touring cycling routes around Scalea are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include The Riviera between Scalea and Santa Maria del Cedro – loop tour and Lao River Bridge – Maierà loop from Scalea.


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