lorica - mancuso village
From Lorica, which is one of the best-equipped tourist centres in Sila, the route sets off in the direction of Rovale (1350 m), a small and charming holiday resort located at the north-eastern end of Lake Arvo. The route proceeds uphill with gradients approaching 7 per cent, passing through a lush forest of pine and beech trees. At km 16, a slight descent begins, on which the Ciclovia crosses the Cammino di Gioacchino da Fiore. Reaching an altitude of 1380 m at km 26.4, after a series of ups and downs we reach Lake Ampollino (1282 m), the watershed between Sila Grande and Sila Piccola, arriving near Trepidò where the Water and Energy Museum Visitor Centre is located. The route skirts the lake for about 13 km, crossing a short pleasant stretch, and then proceeds in a southerly direction towards Borgo di Torre Spineto, which is reached at 44.7 km. After passing the hamlet of Manco Spineto Migliari, the route is immediately challenging, climbing to an altitude of 1435 m and then descending again at Fontana dei Monaci and climbing again to cross the highest point of the stage at 1439 m. From here begins a magnificent descent that quickly leads to Villaggio Racise and, after slight ups and downs, to Villaggio Mancuso, the well-known holiday resort with charming wooden huts built in the first half of the 20th century (1304 m).
ITINERARY AND DESTINATIONS
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Places you must visit
LORICA (SAN GIOVANNI IN FIORE)
Lorica is a tourist resort located in the wide valley of Lake Arvo in Sila Grande. It touches two municipalities in the province of Cosenza: San Giovanni in Fiore and Casali del Manco. Lorica lies at an elevation of 1314 metres . When you visit you will be able to tackle various sports, from canoeing on the lake to skiing on Monte Botte Donato (elevation 1929 m).
The Water and Energy Museum Visitor Centre
The Water and Energy Museum Visitor Centre is located in Trepidò, in the municipality of Cotronei, province of Crotone. The building was an environmental requalification as well as a building refurbishment. The Museum uses interactive technology to inform visitors about issues such as water resources and the use of renewable energy sources.
Mancuso Village
Villaggio Mancuso was founded during the first decades of the 20th century as a holiday getaway for the citizens of Catanzaro, in one of the most beautiful areas of Sila. It is located in the Femminamorta and Gariglione mountains. There are small wooden houses with black and white slats reminiscent of Swiss cabins as well as hotels and recreational activities.
climate
Mainly high-altitude stage that is not recommended in winter due to the presence of snow. However, the roads are passable and the reception facilities functional. From April to October, the climate is temperate. The route is mostly shady and cool even during the hottest summer days.
Food, drink and accommodation
Farmhouses, hotels and B&Bs are present along the route. In the villages between Lorica and Villaggio Mancuso, there is no shortage of restaurants and trattorias offering local products and typical cuisine. The Ciclovia crosses mostly woods and green areas, where water sources are always available.
Clothing
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It is recommended to use a bike suitable for long distances, a gravel or mountain bike, also with pedal assistance. It may be appropriate to fit off-road (or mixed) tyres in the case of gravel. Although the route is on asphalt, it is a good idea to provide a set-up that allows you to safely tackle sections in the woods that may have mud and gravel in bad weather.
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If you want to travel with a tent, you can stay in tent camping sites or campsites, agritourism and bivouac areas. To learn more please visit the Parks’ websites.
