The best cycling routes around Fano Adriano

Don't just ride or cycle past the Laghetto di Pietranzoni. This small mountain lake, located at an altitude of 1,660 meters in the middle of Campo Imperatore, is one of the most photogenic spots in the Abruzzo region. The natural lake, formed by glaciers, constantly changes size due to meltwater and rain, making every visit different. Why stop here? On a windless day, the imposing Corno Grande, the highest peak in the Apennines, is beautifully reflected in the clear water. The endless high plain, aptly nicknamed 'Little Tibet', offers a unique landscape full of peace and space. Moreover, it requires hardly any effort: from the parking lot, you can walk to the shore in just a few minutes. In spring, thousands of blooming crocuses provide a colorful spectacle, while the lake is a perfect spot year-round to take a break, take photos, and fully enjoy the impressive landscape.

The Campo Imperatore plateau is so special because it is one of Europe's most alien and untouched landscapes. The plateau is over 15 kilometers long and lies at an average altitude of 1,800 to 2,000 meters. This creates a unique combination of extreme vastness, raw nature, and cultural history. The main reasons why this area is unique: Europe's 'Little Tibet': Due to the vast treeless plains, the grazing herds of horses and sheep, and the immense mountain ranges surrounding it, you absolutely do not feel like you are in Italy here. The horizon is nowhere interrupted by modern buildings, which gives a rare sense of ultimate emptiness and space. The setting for iconic films: The alien landscape has been used as a film set by countless Hollywood directors. Major classics and westerns such as Once Upon a Time in the West and The Name of the Rose were filmed here.

The endpoint by car is the large mountain square Piazzale di Campo Imperatore (2,130 meters). The breathtaking mountain road SS17bis leads you from the valley right up to the doors of the Hotel Campo Imperatore and the Astronomical Observatory. Why shouldn't you miss Campo Imperatore? Because here you are right in the middle of the high mountains without a strenuous climb. At an altitude of 2,130 meters, you are surrounded by impressive mountain peaks and begin one of the most beautiful hiking areas in the Apennines. The car journey there is an experience in itself: a winding road through the spectacular landscape of 'Little Tibet', where you often encounter horses, cows, and large flocks of sheep along the way. At the top, you will also find a unique mix of nature, history, and culture, with the historic hotel where Mussolini was imprisoned, the highest church in Italy, the astronomical observatory, and cozy food trucks where you can enjoy local specialties such as fresh pecorino and generously filled sandwiches.

The Porta Reale, invariably called Porta Madonna by the inhabitants of Teramo, is a historic city gate and an important landmark in the city. The gate forms the direct entrance to the street that leads to the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie. Some facts: Built for a royal visit. The gate was erected in the first half of the 19th century (partially rebuilt in 1825) as an arch of triumph. This was specifically intended to ceremoniously welcome King Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies of the House of Bourbon to the city. Two names: The official name is Porta Reale (Royal Gate). However, the locals always call it Porta Madonna, due to its direct proximity to the sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie. Medieval foundations: Although its current appearance is 19th-century, the gate stands on the site of a much older, medieval city gate. Those who look closely can still see some scarce remains of the old medieval city wall next to the gate. Strategic junction: Today, the gate marks the transition from modern Teramo to the historic center. It forms the starting point of the Corso De Michetti, the atmospheric axis that leads you deeper into the old city.

The village of Poggio Umbricchio is located in the municipality of Crognaleto. You can reach it by turning off the Gran Sasso State Road 80. The small village preserves a milestone from the ancient Via Cecilia, in the church of Santa Maria Lauretana.

A summer and winter tourist resort in the province of Teramo. Located above the village of Pietracamela. From the Prati di Tivo square, at an altitude of 1,450 meters, a four-seater chairlift and a two-seater chairlift ascend to Arapietra, 2,000 meters above sea level.

A small medieval village surrounded by nature, perched on the slopes of Corno Piccolo. Numerous trails branch off from here toward Gran Sasso.

At Bar Arno, the climb begins toward the village of Pietracamela and the town of Prati di Tivo. A beautiful climb, also a stage of the Giro.