Ofanto River Cycle Route

This touring bicycle loop tour is approximately 48.5 km long and generally takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

The route features a varied terrain, primarily consisting of asphalt roads with low traffic. You will also encounter some gravel sections, often referred to as 'strade bianche', and unpaved paths along the riverbanks. The tour traverses hillsides, vineyards, and orchards, offering a diverse cycling experience.

This tour is classified as a 'moderate' bike ride and requires a good level of fitness. While parts of the broader Ciclovia dell'Ofanto are accessible to all, this specific loop from Canosa di Puglia includes some unpaved segments and elevation changes that necessitate a reasonable physical condition.

The tour offers diverse scenery, including picturesque views of the Ofanto River and the Murgia plateau. You'll pass by notable features such as the Roman Bridge over the Ofanto River, beautiful Peach Trees in Bloom (seasonally), and the historical Bourbon Locks of the Ofantino Diversion. The route also offers distant glimpses of the Vulture mountains and passes through areas with long forests of willows and poplars.

The tour starts and ends in Canosa di Puglia. While specific parking areas for the trailhead are not detailed, Canosa di Puglia offers various public parking options within the town. It's advisable to check local parking availability upon arrival.

Spring and autumn are generally the best times to cycle this route, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, such as the peach trees in bloom during spring. Summers can be hot, and while winters are mild, some unpaved sections might be affected by rain.

Yes, this route is part of the extensive Ciclovia dell'Ofanto and integrates with several national and European cycling networks. You will find sections that overlap with the Via Francigena - 09 Puglia, Ponte Romano, and Via Giuseppe Garibaldi.

While the route passes through natural areas, specific regulations for dogs on the cycling path itself are not explicitly stated. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash in public and natural park areas, and to ensure they are comfortable with cycling alongside you for this moderate-difficulty tour.

No, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route through the Parco Naturale Regionale Fiume Ofanto. The park is generally open to the public for recreational activities. However, always respect local regulations and environmental guidelines within the park.

While the route itself might not have frequent facilities directly on the path, the broader Ciclovia dell'Ofanto aims to offer 'bike-friendly' services, including welcoming wineries and farmhouses that may offer tastings. Canosa di Puglia, as the starting and ending point, provides various options for cafes and restaurants.

Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, it's advisable to pack essentials such as sufficient water, snacks, a basic bike repair kit (including a spare tube), sun protection (sunscreen, hat), and appropriate cycling attire. A helmet is highly recommended. Consider bringing an official app for the Ciclovia dell'Ofanto for navigation and information on bike-friendly services.