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Italy
Calabria
Cosenza

Mottafollone

The best traffic-free bike rides around Mottafollone

4.3

(6)

100

riders

1

ride

Road cycling around Mottafollone offers diverse terrain in the Esaro Valley, situated between the Pollino National Park and the Sibari Plain. The region features green mountains and hills, providing varied elevation for cyclists. Routes often follow the Rosa and Occido rivers, traversing agricultural landscapes. The undulating terrain of the Calabrian Apennines provides both climbs and descents.

Best no traffic road cycling routes around Mottafollone

  • The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Torre Normanna loop from San Marco Argentano

Last updated: July 13, 2026

10

riders

#1.

View of the Sila Mountains – Malvito Castle loop from San Marco Argentano

49.4km

02:34

830m

830m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

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Popular around Mottafollone

Traffic-free bike rides around Mottafollone

Tips from the Community

Targi
May 19, 2025, Sanctuary of Madonna del Pettoruto

The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Pettoruto is an important place of Marian worship located in San Sosti, in the province of Cosenza, Calabria. Immersed in the suggestive gorge of the Rosa river, between Monte Montea and Monte Mula, it is located at about 543 meters above sea level. Origins and legend According to tradition, the sanctuary has legendary origins. A man named Nicola Mairo, originally from Altomonte and unjustly accused of murder, took refuge on the mountain where the sanctuary stands today. During his time in hiding, he had a mystical vision of the Madonna and Child and carved her image on a tuff rock. In 1449 he was cleared of all charges. In the early 1600s, a deaf-mute shepherd boy discovered the carved image and, miraculously, regained his speech, thus allowing the construction of the sanctuary. Architecture and awards The current building was built between 1824 and 1840 by order of Bishop Felice Greco. In 1979, Pope John Paul II elevated it to a basilica

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This is a charming and picturesque village located between the valleys in the heart of the Pollino Park. Borgo di San Sosti boasts a wonderful waterfall: during the summer all the inhabitants go to the river to enjoy the fresh air.

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Malvito Castle is a medieval fortress built by the Lombards between the 7th and 8th centuries on a hill overlooking the surrounding valleys. It was later enlarged by the Normans, who made it the seat of a county, and after being abandoned in the 18th century it was restored in the 1980s.

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This place is an oasis of tranquillity, away from car traffic, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding majestic mountains. Here you can immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of nature and enjoy a breathtaking panorama. Far from the hubbub of urban life, one appreciates the serenity and magnificence of the mountain landscapes. Take a moment to breathe deeply and let yourself be enraptured by their beauty.

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San Sosti is a pretty village in the Esero Valley, famous for the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Pettoruto and for the Fra' Giovanni waterfall. It is located within the Pollino National Park.

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The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Pettoruto is located at an altitude of 543 metres, inside a gorge between Monte Montea and Monte Mula. Every year between 1 and 8 September there is a festival and a pilgrimage from San Sosti to the Sanctuary, in which the whole town participates.

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The Fra' Giovanni Waterfall or Fountain is a little-known destination, halfway between the Sanctuary of Pettoruto and the municipality of San Sosti. It is a very suggestive waterfall along the Rosa river, next to which there is an equipped area.

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The whole area here is great for cycling. Regardless of whether you are on a touring, racing or mountain bike. There are always beautiful views.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no traffic road cycling routes are available around Mottafollone?

There are 5 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Mottafollone listed in this guide, catering to various fitness levels. These routes offer a chance to explore the region's beautiful landscapes away from busy roads.

What is the typical terrain like for no traffic road cycling near Mottafollone?

The terrain around Mottafollone is characterized by an undulating 'up-and-down wonderland' of the Calabrian Apennines. You can expect a mix of climbs and descents through green mountains and hills, offering both challenging segments and rewarding scenic views. Routes often feature mostly well-paved surfaces.

Are there any challenging no traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Malvito Castle – View of the Sila Mountains loop from San Marco-Roggiano is a difficult route spanning nearly 95 km with almost 2000 meters of elevation gain. This route will test your endurance while offering stunning vistas.

Can I find moderate no traffic road cycling routes around Mottafollone?

Absolutely. Most of the no traffic road cycling routes in this guide are rated as moderate. For example, the Torre Normanna loop from San Marco Argentano is a moderate 50 km ride with over 800 meters of elevation, providing a good balance of challenge and enjoyment.

What kind of views can I expect on these traffic-free cycling routes?

The routes often pass through areas offering breathtaking panoramic views. You might encounter vistas encompassing the Gulf of Policastro, the Apennines, and the surrounding Calabrian mountains. The region's position between Pollino National Park and the Sibari Plain ensures diverse and scenic backdrops for your ride. Consider stopping at viewpoints like A breathtaking view for memorable photo opportunities.

Are there any historical landmarks or natural attractions along the no traffic routes?

Yes, the area is rich in history and natural beauty. While cycling, you might pass by or near sites such as the Malvito Castle or the Sanctuary of Madonna della Neve, which also offers incredible views. The San Ciriaco Cave is another unique natural attraction in the vicinity.

What do other cyclists say about the no traffic road cycling routes in Mottafollone?

The no traffic road cycling routes around Mottafollone are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the tranquil atmosphere, the stunning natural scenery, and the rewarding climbs and descents that characterize the region's routes.

Are there any shorter no traffic road cycling loops suitable for a quicker ride?

Yes, if you're looking for a shorter, moderate loop, the View of the Sila Mountains loop from San Marco Argentano covers approximately 31 km with over 700 meters of elevation gain, making it a great option for a few hours of cycling.

What is the best time of year for no traffic road cycling in Mottafollone?

Given Mottafollone's location in Calabria, the spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and less extreme weather. Summer can be warm, but the higher elevations might provide some relief. Winter cycling is possible but may require checking local weather and road conditions, especially at higher altitudes.

Are there any routes that are part of larger cycling networks?

Mottafollone is a key point on the Ciclovia Parchi Calabria, a multi-day cycling route. This means that many of the local routes connect to or are segments of this larger network, indicating well-established and scenic paths suitable for road biking.

Where can I find parking for these no traffic road cycling routes?

Many of the routes listed, such as those starting 'from San Marco Argentano', typically originate from towns or villages where public parking facilities are available. It's advisable to check specific starting points on the route pages for detailed parking information, often found near town centers or designated visitor areas.

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