Km 50
Elevation gain +770 m
75% dirt, white roads; 25% asphalt
Refreshment point: “Al Capannino” at Croce di Montecolombo (km 24)
The long climb from the sea along the Valle del Conca passes through numerous landscapes, olive groves, vineyards, reeds, small woods and fields of sunflowers which appear and disappear continuously, always along the river up to the village of Taverna.
Looking up, you can see the castles of Montefiore and Montecolombo. A couple of easy fords certainly do not disturb this route where even the small churches of Gemmano and Carbognano on the hills indicate the correct path.
Leaving the river, you will continue pedaling through smaller valleys dotted with countless agricultural villages until you reach San Clemente which can be recognized from afar by its castle resting on a hill.
From here the view of the sea will keep you company and you will return to the coast through the picturesque country roads of the villages in the Misano Adriatico area. All in all, a relaxing ride, but full of rugged climbs within the agricultural landscape of this part of Romagna.
Km 105
Elevation gain +2250 m
53% dirt, dirt roads; 16% secondary roads; 31% asphalt
Refreshment points:
Montegrimano (km 63)
“Al Capannino” at Croce di Montecolombo (km 81).
An extraordinary journey from the sea to the first foothills of the Apennines, from the ancient communication routes of the lower Valle di Conca to the badlands of the southeastern borders of Romagna. The route is the scene of numerous ancient and modern battles, and the start of the itinerary follows the front on the infamous “Gothic Line” of September 1944. Entering the Montefeltro area is the turning point, where the landscapes from the many fortresses and castles that can be admired from the ridge road that connects Montegrimano, Monte Licciano and Sassofeltrio.
The descent to the bottom of the valley is only a short pause before climbing back up the slope towards the sea for the grand finale through the countryside of San Clemente and Misano Adriatico.