The special feature of the small Molise municipality of Acquaviva Collecroce, in the province of Campobasso, is its Croatian origin. In fact, the presence of Slavic peoples in these territories dates back to the 16th century. Here, along with Italian, Molise Croatian is spoken, and the village of just 674 souls still retains some customs of the ancient founding peoples.
The route skirts the hilly area around the village, which is rich in water (the presence of numerous fountains explains the village’s name) and lush, wild vegetation.

Technical description:
18-km loop trail designed for a short mountain bike ride. Departure and arrival near Acquaviva Collecroce, from Trattoria “La Fornacella.” Several hilly ups and downs, not particularly challenging. We plunge onto back roads through the Molise vegetation in the direction of little Acquaviva. It descends in the lower section towards Bufalara and then slowly ascends towards “La Fornacella.” Only one passage to be checked if open: the ‘S’ curve downstream of the village often impassable due to dense vegetation. The rest of the route is largely feasible. Beware of possible fords depending on the season.

Route type: loop
Length: 18 km
Height difference in ascent: 460 m
Downhill elevation gain: 460 m
Highest point: 444 m
Lowest point: 218 m
Type of surface: mixed

Municipality of departure: Acquaviva Collecroce
Place of departure: Acquaviva Collecroce
Municipality of arrival: Acquaviva Collecroce
Place of arrival: Acquaviva Collecroce

Recommended period: March to October