A journey to one of the lesser-known areas ofAbruzzo, immersed in nature and history to the headwaters of the Aventine River, following its waters ancient resource of the territory.
From Palena to Lake Sant’Angelo and back, among the silent, almost fairy-tale-like landscapes at the foot of the Maiella, historic lands of passage of armies and soldiers but also of hermit saints.

Itinerary featured in the Guidebook Viatoribus “Italia in Bici con Gusto”

Itinerary description:
The loop route is 47 km long, starting and ending in Palena (CH).
From Town Hall Square, one exits the town by crossing the Aventine on the bridge. Having engaged SP 117, the road increases slightly in gradient as it continues northeast toward Lettopalena. Arriving in the town, take a right onto the road that leads to Taranta Peligna in about 4 km, which is reached by being greeted by the coolness of the river waters by crossing the “Acquevive River Park.”
We then proceed to Lama dei Peligni on Via Duca degli Abruzzi, with the Aventine Valley opening to the right of the path. Arriving at Lama uphill, exit by turning right onto SS 84 towards Casoli. The road begins to descend and leads in 13 km to the shores of Lake Sant’Angelo, passing through Torretta locality.
After a restorative stop, you resume pedaling for 4 km uphill toward Civitella Messer Raimondo and then in the direction of SP 214, which you take near Colle San Leonardo. You then head back south to Lama dei Peligni, passing through the village and continuing in the direction of Palena, which you reach after passing the Majella Brigade Shrine and the Cavallone Caves ski lifts.

Route type: loop
Length: 47 km
Height difference in ascent: 1050 m
Downhill elevation gain: 1050 m
Highest point: 817 m
Lowest point: 219 m
Type of surface: asphalt

Technical tips:
The route does not involve technical difficulties, but the elevation still requires some training. The most challenging section is the approximately 5-km climb from Lake Sant’Angelo to Civitella Messer Raimondo.

Municipality of departure: Palena
Starting location: Palena
Municipality of arrival: Palena
Place of arrival: Palena

Recommended period: March to October