In the saddle along the Rivera delle Palme
2 minutes
There, everyone can make a tailor-made bike experience, either following the wake of the great champions, or choosing a not too testing ride, even with the whole family.
The grand finale of Tirreno-Adriatico, the cycling race that runs across the Italian peninsula from sea to sea, unfolds in a scenery imbued with blooming and salty scents. The itinerary begins on the hills overlooking the sea and ends along the coast. A slower-running course in the first half, owning to the ups and downs that can test your quadriceps and lungs a faster-running route in the second half along the straight stretches that favour an upping pace. Here is a short guide to pick the fittest one for you.
Amidst enchanting villages
Ready, steady, go. The first act is a ceaseless undulating sector in the hills studded with bold hamlets. From Offida, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy and the homeland of the pillow lace, to Castignano, the pyramid-shaped village surrounded by vineyards yielding a major wine production. The course then touches on Montalto, embraced by woods in which – legend has it – Saint Francis of Assisi would find some relief, and reaches Ripatransone. From an altitude of 494 metres it boasts the title of “Belvedere of the Picen” and is a perfect pause. There you can cast your eye further, on the beaches awaiting the arrival of the cycling convoy.
The littoral with a biking vibe
The second act of Tirreno-Adriatico unfolds along a flat circuit of around 15 kilometres, that the pro riders repeat 5 times, along the coastline from Grottammare to Porto d’Ascoli, passing through the queen city of San Benedetto del Tronto. It is an easy route where everyone can enjoy a tailor-made ride. It even suits the families that pedal on the bike lane running along the beach for 15km, up to Cupra Marittima, south of Porto d’Ascoli. The view of the Riviera delle Palme is a blessing: a seafront with 8,000 palm trees of different species along with oleanders, resting areas, playgrounds.
The littoral with a relaxing vibe
But San Benedetto del Tronto offers much more. This city has an ancient sea tradition also testified by the Polo Museale del Mare, that includes the Museo della civiltà marinara delle Marche, the Museo delle Anfore, the Museo Ittico and the Antiquarium Truentinum. Archeological finds, fish and crustaceans, fishing gears and sailing equipments: visiting its rooms means immersing yourself in the maritime culture, both of the past and of today. On top of that, art lovers will enjoy the MAM, Museo d’Arte sul Mare, a permanent outdoor museum that stretches along the southern pier with no less than 145 artworks, of which 135 sculptures and 10 great murals. The last tip: while San Benedetto del Tronto is the main star, Grottammare is a worthy co-star that is worth a visit Especially the higher part of the town: it is perched on a hill overlooking the sea and was inhabited already in the Neolithic age. While strolling in its characteristic alleyways, breathing the scents of the orange orchards and enjoying the view of the blue sea, you will hardly regret of being there.
By RCS Sport editorial staff.
