STAGE 2: Matelica – Campodonico (36 km)

The second stage of the Frasassi MTB Tour kicks off from Matelica, a pretty town famous for its renowned Verdicchio wine, and reaches Campodonico, a small village on the Umbrian-Marchigiana ridge. The route, which is of great naturalistic and scenic interest, after the first 7 km climbs quite rapidly in elevation and runs for about 15 km around 1000 m. Evocative story of the death of Emperor Otto III and his treasure buried in the tower of Salmaregia.

Technical description:
The 36.4-kilometer route climbs rapidly up the Umbro-Marchigiana ridge flanking the mighty Monte Giuoco del Pallone (1,231 mt). It leans south, past the spectacular Pian di Pisello plateau (980 m asl), and heads toward Mt. l’Antica (1,092 m). From here we finally descend to the valley.

Length: 36 km
Height difference in ascent: 1620 m
Height difference on descent: 1410 m
Highest point: 1051 m
Lowest point: 336 m
Type of surface: asphalt

Technical tips:
Along the way it is possible to refuel with water at springs, farmhouses or hamlets. Therefore, it is recommended not to overdo the water supply so as not to carry too much weight. Instead, it is necessary to have the main spare parts for your bike with you. With, or following rain, it is possible to encounter stretches with mud. In this second stage you will travel about 15 km at an altitude between 900 and 1100 m: therefore, even in summer, it is good to have a windproof jacket with you. For the same reason it is possible in early spring or early fall to find the last or first snows.

Municipality of departure: Matelica
Place of departure: Matelica
Municipality of arrival: Fabriano
Finish location: Campodonico

Recommended period: April to October

The Frasassi MTB Tour is a route around the medieval town of Fabriano,inland from Ancona, between the Gola della Rossa and Monte Cucco Nature Parks.
You ride MTB in picturesque valleys bordered by the main Apennine reliefs of the Umbrian-Marchigiana ridge, in a ring route of about 225 km.

There are 6 recommended stages (30/45 km each), to be tackled with trained legs. The total elevation gain uphill is 9500 meters.
Starting base is Genga, an ancient medieval village, famous for the Frasassi Caves.