Route description
The tour starts on 600 m above sea level at Viale della Liberta in Caramanico Terme. Caramanico is known for its termal springs containing a high concentration of brimstone as well as for its compelling national park Majella ( Parco Nazionale della Majella ). The national park is located right in the center of the valleys Valle dell'Orfento and Valle di San Bartolomeo.
Continue on a tarmaced road towards Contrada Riga. Along the way you will pass a fountain, where you should take a rest and fill your water bottle. There will be no fountain until Contrada Decontra.
Now keep biking towards Contrada Sant'Elia on the so called „Old Path of Chieti“ („Veccia via di Chieti“). After a slight ascent you will get to the heart of Valle Giumentina, one of the most important palaeolithic archaeological excavations within the region Abruzzo.
From the valley Valle Giumentina follow a non tarmaced road into the valley Valle di San Bartolomeo, which got its name from an anchorite living there. San Bartolomeo is the patron of butchers and farmers, who was worshiped over centuries. Located on 600 m above sea level and underneath massive rocks, lies a domicile for monks. You can feel the magical atmosphere, the monks lives and their spiritual and physical preparation by abstinence and meditation seaking for inner perfection and renunciation from all worldly desires.
On your way back bike towards Contrada Decontra and follow a road covered by grass and rocks until you get to the center of Caramanico Terme. You will have the opportunity to rest and fill up your water bottle at the fountain in Contrada Decontra.
Where to eat
Unfortunately there are no mountain huts or any other options to get food along the way. You should definitely take the opportunity to fill your water bottle at the fountains.
Interesting facts
- You're traveling a distance of 25 km on this moderate trail. The average length of all bike Trails in Abruzzo is 31 km.
Highlights of the tour
Highlights of the tour are the landscape within the valleys and the archeaological occurrences in the region.
Caramanico Terme itself has also lots to offer. The four churches of the city are worth a visit.
Getting here
By car:
To get to the starting point in Caramanico Terme take route SS487. Turn into Via Martiri Caramanichesi, continue and eventually turn left into Via della Liberta. This street is partly closed for public transportation therefore we recommend to search for a parking spot before you get there.
