Wild Abruzzo Road Bike Tour
Discover the joy of cycling Abruzzo’s untamed landscapes from soaring mountains to the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
From € 3990 - All Included
7 Days / 6 Nights
May - June / Sept - Oct
Road Bike & E-Bike
Wild beauty.
Epic rides.
Real Italy.
Welcome to Abruzzo, an authentic hidden gem waiting to be discovered on two wheels.In seven unforgettable days, the wild heart of Italy will surprise you at every turn, from the dramatic peaks of the Apennines to the tranquil shores of the Adriatic Sea. With barely a car in sight, we’ll conquer iconic Giro d’Italia climbs like Blockhaus and Campo Imperatore, roll through vine-covered hills, and cruise a stunning coastal bike path kissed by the sea breeze.
Off the bike, the adventure continues through enchanting hamlets steeped in history and a cuisine as rich and varied as the region itself: fresh seafood from the Adriatic, hearty mountain fare, and local wines that tell the story of the land.
The most unexpected Italy is waiting around the corner; get in touch and come experience the pure joy of cycling in Abruzzo.
The reveal of Campo Imperatore
A SPECIAL MOMENT
It happens in an instant, one perfect curve, and boom: Campo Imperatore unfolds before you. A vast alpine plain surrounded by towering peaks, with the road slicing straight through open meadows like a dream.
It’s one of those rare “wow” moments when everyone, without fail, slows down, looks around, and just breathes it in.
Day by day
DAY 1
Welcome To Abruzzo
DAY 1
Welcome To Abruzzo
The journey begins in Abruzzo’s Golden Triangle, a patchwork of rolling hills known for producing some of Italy’s finest olive oil: the Aprutino Pescarese. A quiet countryside ride warms up the legs and offers your first glimpse of the region’s unspoiled beauty.
In the evening, we’ll toast the adventure ahead with a private wine tasting, followed by a delicious farm-to-table dinner at our favorite local trattoria.
Welcome to Abruzzo, your ride starts here.
• DISTANCE: 55 km (35 mi)
• ELEVATION: 1,000 m (3,300 ft)
TODAY’S TRIVIA
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a bold red wine made from the Montepulciano grape, grown mostly in Abruzzo. Not to be confused with the town of Montepulciano in Tuscany, where wine is made from Sangiovese grapes.
DAY 2
Campo Imperatore
DAY 2
Campo Imperatore
Today’s ride takes you deep into the heart of Abruzzo’s wilderness. We’re heading to Campo Imperatore, a vast, high-altitude plateau surrounded by dramatic peaks and often called the Little Tibet. The final climb, beneath the shadow of Corno Grande, is a Giro d’Italia classic that cuts through one of Italy’s most stunning landscapes and rewards you with breathtaking views from the summit. The ride ends in Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a beautifully preserved hilltop village where time slows down and local flavors shine in another dinner to remember.
• DISTANCE: 100 km (60 mi)
• ELEVATION: 2,700 m (8,800 ft)
TODAY’S TRIVIA
In 1943, Mussolini was held prisoner by the Italian anti fascist forces at the top of Campo Imperatore. He was freed by German paratroopers in a dramatic raid; one of WWII’s most famous operations.
DAY 3
Sirente Velino
DAY 3
Sirente Velino
From one national park to another, today’s ride takes you along peaceful backroads and sweeping views, from the rugged Gran Sasso to the untouched Sirente Velino National Park. To fully recharge, we’ll end the day with another delicious dinner of Abruzzese specialties and a toast to the beautiful rides ahead.
• DISTANCE: 90 km (55 mi)
• ELEVATION: 1,400 m (4,600 ft)
TODAY’S TRIVIA
For centuries, shepherds crossed Abruzzo during the transumanza—a seasonal migration of sheep between high mountain pastures and lower grazing lands.
DAY 4
Blockhaus
DAY 4
Blockhaus
Time to tackle Abruzzo’s toughest climb: the mighty Blockhaus. A true Giro d’Italia classic, this ascent rivals the most iconic Alpine and Dolomitic passes, with one big bonus: on clear days, the views stretch from the Adriatic coast all the way to the Balkans. We’ll celebrate the ride with a cold beer at Birrificio Majella, our favorite local craft brewery. Another unforgettable day, in the legs and in the books. Cheers!
• DISTANCE: 75 km (50 mi)
• ELEVATION: 2,000 m (6,500 ft)
TODAY’S TRIVIA
“Abruzzo forte e gentile” — strong and kind — is a famous quote by 19th-century writer P. Levi, inspired by the people he met in the region. The phrase still captures the spirit of this land: Abruzzo will test your legs, and it will warm your heart.
DAY 5
Majella
DAY 5
Majella
The final mountain stage of this unforgettable journey leads us deep into the wild heart of the Majella National Park. Towering peaks, timeless villages, and peaceful roads winding through untouched nature set the tone for another special day in the saddle.
Breathe in the fresh mountain air, embrace the silence, and enjoy that unique sense of freedom only a ride like this can offer.
• DISTANCE: 85 km (53 mi)
• ELEVATION: 1,800 m (5,900 ft)
TODAY’S TRIVIA
According to legend, Chieti, the province capital, is one of Italy’s oldest cities, founded by Teate, son of the Trojan hero Aeneas.
DAY 6
Trabocchi Coast
DAY 6
Trabocchi Coast
After epic days in the remote interior, we finally reach the sea. The Trabocchi Coast is a spectacular stretch of Adriatic shoreline, dotted with trabocchi: traditional wooden fishing structures perched above the water.
We’ll ride the scenic Ciclovia dei Trabocchi, a beautiful coastal bike path built on a former railway line, take a refreshing swim, and toast the journey with a seaside drink. Tonight’s grand finale? Brodetto vastese, the region’s signature seafood stew, perfectly paired with a chilled bottle of Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo. What a way to end the ride.
• DISTANCE: 80 km (50 mi)
• ELEVATION: 750 m (2,400 ft)
TODAY’S TRIVIA
In 2023, the Giro d’Italia kicked off with an individual time trial along the Ciclovia dei Trabocchi
DAY 7
Arrivederci
DAY 7
Arrivederci
After an unforgettable week of riding, it’s time to say goodbye.
But not for long: we have a feeling this is just the beginning of your journey with Vago. Thanks for riding with us and see you for your next adventure!
Sextantio Albergo Diffuso
A REAL GEM
In the medieval village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, time seems to stand still. Here, Sextantio Albergo Diffuso has restored ancient stone homes into a unique hospitality project—preserving centuries-old architecture and traditions. With candlelit rooms, handcrafted linens, and historic charm in every detail, this is more than a place to sleep—it’s an immersive step into Abruzzo’s soul.
Pricing & Inclusions
ACCOMMODATION
We’ve handpicked a collection of charming boutique hotels, vineyard agriturismi, and historic villas that offer a quiet atmosphere, local character, and a true sense of place.
The final accommodations will be selected based on your group’s size and preferences. No one-size-fits-all solutions, just the perfect fit for your Abruzzo bike tour.
INCLUSIONS
Inclusions vary based on your wishes. If you’d like everything taken care of, here’s what your tour may include:
- High end bike rental
- Handpicked accommodations
- Cycling guide and support van
- All meals
- All logistics and transfers
- Entrance fees for all activities and visits
PRICING
The final cost depends on your group size, travel dates, inclusions and preferred level of comfort.
Typical cost for this 7-day tour — all inclusive, for a group of 6 cyclists:
€3.990 per person, based on double room occupancy.
Want something shorter, fancier, or more self-guided? No problem; get in touch and we’ll craft the perfect bike tour just for your group.
FAQs
Is this Abruzzo Bike Tour the best choice for our group?
We believe this tour is perfect for your group if:
- You’re looking for a challenging and rewarding week of cycling
- You love discovering authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations
- You’re here for the great rides; but food, wine, and culture matter just as much
- Your group is not too big, curious, and ready to enjoy hidden gems where intimacy and atmosphere make all the difference
- Your idea of a great adventure is made of effort, connection, and moments that stay with you forever
How flexible is the itinerary on this Abruzzo Bike Tour?
Very. Abruzzo offers endless route options, so the tour can be easily adapted to your group’s preferences and energy levels. We can modify the itinerary, adjust daily mileage, or use the van for selected transfers ensuring that every day is just the right mix of challenge and enjoyment.
Is this Abruzzo Bike tour suitable for a self-guided version?
Partially. This is a point-to-point itinerary with at least three different accommodation. So on the days when you change accommodation you’ll need luggage transfers; which we can handle for you. While riding with our local guides adds extra value and flexibility, we’re happy to support a self-guided version and help you choose the best option for your group.
What should I pack for this Abruzzo Bike Tour?
We send a detailed packing list before every tour.
In general: bring layers, light rain gear, cycling kit for all conditions, and a few comfortable outfits for dinners and cultural visits.
Can non-cyclists join this Abruzzo Bike Tour?
Absolutely!
Partners, friends, or family who don’t ride can enjoy daily excursions, cultural visits, great food, and moments to relax while the rest of the group is on the bike.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We control what we can, and adapt to what we can’t.
There’s always a Plan B: we might change timing, adjust the route, or swap the ride with a unique local experience.
Ready to plan your ride?
Tell us what you have in mind, and we’ll craft your perfect cycling adventure in Italy. We can’t wait to welcome you.
