The route in the valley between Teramo and Ascoli Piceno, on the border between Marche and Abruzzo, is very challenging but, in terms of time and energy, amply repays with splendid panoramic views. It also allows one to travel closely with the history of man, who has littered this area with works dating back to different eras, expressions of the technological level and economic needs of a given historical juncture.
Indeed, it is not uncommon to come across photovoltaic fields and old farmhouses, abandoned manors and centuries-old olive groves. Nature also offers great treasures to travelers, such as the Salinello Gorge and the majestic surrounding mountains.

Technical description:
It is a long route (140 km) and very difficult, for experienced legs. It crosses a mixed terrain of plains, hills and highlands.

The departure is from the Abruzzo seaside resort of Martinsicuro, on the Marche border. After an initial ride on the ‘Adriatic Cycle Route’ that skirts the sea, we head inland, destination Sant’Omero. Proceeding southwest, a hilly section begins until Cesenà and then Campli. At that point, the heights of the northeastern end of the Laga Mountains are tackled, with a steady climb (30 km) leading up to 1200 meters between Macchia da Sole and Settecerri. Some descent to Cerquito and then uphill again (10 km) on the slope leading to St. James.

The way back to the Vibrata Valley is via the descent to Civitella del Tronto and along the state highway to Sant’Omero. Compared to the outward journey, from here we first head north to the agricultural village of Corropoli and then cross the valley to the small hill leading to Tortoreto. To the sea in Martinsicuro there are very few kilometers.

Route type: loop
Length: 140 km
Elevation gain: 2500 m
Downhill elevation gain: 2500 m
Highest point: 1189 m
Lowest point: 0 m
Type of surface: mixed

Municipality of departure: Martinsicuro
Place of departure: Martinsicuro
Municipality of arrival: Martinsicuro
Place of arrival: Martinsicuro

Recommended period: all year round