Parma to Cinque Terre Bike Tour

Kick off your journey with a relaxed spin through the countryside just outside Parma — the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of the tour and make sure your bike is dialled in for the days ahead. After this gentle warm-up ride, we’ll explore the charming streets of Parma on a guided walking tour, then gather for a bountiful dinner of local delights.
Welcome to the heart of Italy’s Food Valley!

• DISTANCE: 25 km (15 mi)
• ELEVATION: 100 m (300 ft)

TODAY’S TRIVIA
Painted by Correggio in 1526, the dome of Parma Cathedral features one of the greatest frescoes of the Italian Renaissance: a swirling depiction of the Assumption of the Virgin, a masterpiece of illusion and movement.

We’ll start the day at a traditional caseificio to uncover the secrets of Parmigiano Reggiano. Step inside the aging room — thousands of golden wheels stacked in silence — and prepare for that wow moment, followed by a tasting of different maturations.
From there, it’s time to ride through the quiet, scenic hills around Torrechiara Castle, a perfectly preserved medieval gem rising above the countryside.
And to finish the day in true Parma style? Another dinner full of local flavors. After all, Parma is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy for a good reason.

• DISTANCE: 40 km (25 mi)
• ELEVATION: 800 m (2600 ft)

TODAY’S TRIVIA
Torrechiara Castle was built in the 15th century by nobleman Pier Maria Rossi for his beloved Bianca Pellegrini. Today, it’s one of Italy’s best-preserved castles, famous for its romantic frescoes and sweeping views.

After a quick transfer, today’s ride takes us into the beautiful hills of Canossa, dotted with vineyards, hamlets, and wide-open views stretching from the Po plain to the Apennines. After a winding loop through the hills we’ll find our way back home on quiet countryside roads, in time for some poolside relaxation, an aperitivo, and another delicious dinner in this food-lovers’ paradise.

• DISTANCE: 70 km (45 mi)
• ELEVATION: 1100 m (3600 ft)

TODAY’S TRIVIA
“Andare a Canossa” (“to go to Canossa”) is an Italian expression meaning to ask for forgiveness in a very humble and submissive way. It recalls the year 1077, when Emperor Henry IV went to the castle of Matilde di Canossa and, shoeless and dressed like a penitent, waited three days before Pope Gregory VII admitted him to beg for forgiveness after his excommunication.

After a slow morning cappuccino, we venture into Lunigiana, the unbeaten, rugged corner at the northern edge of Tuscany. A short shuttle sets us up at the base of Passo della Cisa, a panoramic climb that winds through chestnut forests and along open ridgelines in the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano.
At the top, take in views that stretch for miles before a rewarding descent into Pontremoli, a medieval village where ancient stones, wild nature and rich culinary traditions blend in perfect harmony.

• DISTANCE: 45 km (30 mi)
• ELEVATION: 900 m (2900 ft)

TODAY’S TRIVIA
Testaroli is an ancient local pasta dating back to the Etruscans. Cooked like a crepe on a cast-iron pan, then cut into pieces and tossed with pesto or cheese, it’s a dish rich in flavor and history, just like this remote corner of Tuscany.

A new day, a new region: welcome to Liguria, where the Apennine Mountains dive straight into the sea. After a scenic climb along quiet backroads and through ancient beech forests, the view finally opens up and the Ligurian coast stretches out before you in all its pristine beauty. Now it’s time to kick off your shoes, grab a slice of fresh focaccia, and toast the ride with a cold beer on the beach. Cheers!

• DISTANCE: 70 km (45 mi)
• ELEVATION: 1400 m (4500 ft)

TODAY’S TRIVIA
The iconic Milano–Sanremo race, known as La Classicissima, ends on the Ligurian coast and holds the title of the longest one-day race in professional cycling.

Today’s ride follows one of the most scenic roads in Italy, with breathtaking views over the colorful villages of Cinque Terre.
The descent toward Manarola, a postcard-perfect seaside gem, feels like rolling into a dream: dramatic cliffs, terraced vineyards, and turquoise waves crashing below.
After soaking it all in, choose how to spend the afternoon: explore the other villages by train, wandering the tiny streets with a gelato in hand, or head back for some well-earned rest before our farewell dinner. However you end the day, one thing is for sure, this ride will stay with you for a long time

• DISTANCE: 40 km (25 mi)
• ELEVATION: 900 m (2900 ft)

TODAY’S TRIVIA
Sciacchetrà is a rare dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes grown on the steep coastal terraces of the Cinque Terre. Every bottle is a tribute to the sun, the sea, and the deep-rooted traditions of this land.

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!