Campo Imperatore and Terre di Baronia
On Two Wheels: Treasures and Flavours of the “Tibet of Abruzzo”
Cycling across the Campo Imperatore plateau feels like tracing an invisible line through the landscape: on one side, spectacular mountain scenery unfolds; on the other, endless, open plains stretch as far as the eye can see. This route invites you to discover not only the natural beauty of Abruzzo but also its authentic local flavours.
Along the way, there are several stops where you can savour the region’s famous arrosticini di pecora – skewers of grilled sheep meat – served alongside a slice of pecorino canestrato. Produced in the picturesque village of Castel del Monte (AQ), this cheese is the result of the region’s millennia-old pastoral tradition and offers an unmissable taste of Abruzzo’s culinary heritage.
As you pedal through the peaceful mountains, the majestic castle of Rocca Calascio gradually comes into view, revealing its captivating medieval charm. Often chosen as a filming location for major motion pictures, this castle has been listed by National Geographic among the 15 most beautiful castles in the world.
A few kilometres further, the enchanting village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio awaits. With its stone houses and narrow winding streets, it is renowned as one of Italy’s first examples of the “Albergo Diffuso” hotel concept, offering a unique and authentic hospitality experience. The village is also famous for its lentils, a high-quality local product protected by the Slow Food Presìdi brand, alongside the pecorino of Castel del Monte.
This cycling itinerary is far more than a sporting challenge – it is a journey through tradition, culture and cuisine. Perfect for those seeking an immersive ride through pristine landscapes, tasting the delights of local flavours and uncovering the hidden treasures of Abruzzo’s villages.
