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Ionian-Sila Loop: A Cycling Tour through Sea, Wine, Mountains & Calabrian Culture

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Phone: +1 (212) 203-0485

Tour Details

This is a cycling journey that captures the soul of Calabria—a region where sea meets stone, where coastal breezes give way to mountain air, and where every meal tells a story. Beginning and ending at the Sibari train station, this circular route takes you along the stunning northern Ionian coastline, through the vineyards of Cirò, up into the forests of the Sila Plateau, and down through the Crati Valley, with a return ride along the shimmering Tarsia Lake.

Over four days of riding, you’ll discover a landscape of contrasts and harmony—ancient history and wild nature, rustic villages and fine cuisine, sun-drenched beaches and cool mountain air. This is a journey that feeds your spirit as much as your legs.

Departure & Return Location

Sibari Train Station (Cs)

Departure Time

09:30 am

Price Includes

  • Luggage transport & cycling assistance shuttle
  • Wine tasting at a Cirò Marina seaside winery

  • 1-night stay at B&B Vittorio Emanuele in Cirò Marina (double room with breakfast)

  • Dinner at Ristorante Borgo Saverona
  • 1-night stay at La Casa di Gioacchino B&B in San Giovanni in Fiore (double room with breakfast)
  • Dinner at Ristorante U Curtigliu
  • 1-night stay at Royal Hotel in Cosenza (double room with breakfast)
  • Dinner at Locanda Cosentina
  • 1-night stay at Hotel Magna Grecia in Sibari (double room with breakfast)

  • Farewell dinner in Villapiana Lido (with included shuttle transfer)

Price Excludes

  • Cycling guide (available upon request)

  • Travel insurance
  • Extra personal expenses not listed above
  • Bike rental (available upon request)

Complementaries

  • Umbrella
  • Sunscreen
  • T-Shirt
  • Entrance Fees
Availability:

Available year-round, depending on weather conditions.

Starting Point: Sibari Train Station

Our tour begins at Sibari Train Station (Cs)
If the group requires a pick-up and transfer service, we will be happy to arrange it upon request for an additional cost, ensuring maximum convenience for all participants.

Booking & Cancellation Policies:

Booking Confirmation:
A 30% deposit is required to confirm the tour. The remaining balance is due 50 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy:

  • 30% deposit: Non-refundable.
  • 50-46 days before departure: 50% penalty.
  • 45-31 days before departure: 75% penalty.
  • 30 days or less before departure: 100% penalty.
  • 💳 Payment Methods:
Bank transfer or credit card.

    Itinerary

    Day 1 From Sibari to Cirò Marina – Ionian Coastal Beauty and Marine Flavours

    Your adventure begins at the Sibari railway station, nestled in the heart of the lush Ionian plain. From here, you ride south along the scenic SS106 road, tracing the Ionian Sea through postcard-perfect coastal towns like Mirto, Marina di Mandatoriccio, Cariati, Torretta di Crucoli, and Punta Alice.
    This stretch of coast is lined with golden beaches, citrus groves, and medieval towers. With every pedal stroke, the air grows more fragrant with salt and wild herbs. By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Cirò Marina, a coastal gem known for its ancient Magna Graecia roots and its iconic Cirò wine, a legacy of the Olympic athletes of antiquity.
    Here, you’ll stop at a seaside winery for a Cirò wine tasting, paired with local seafood dishes—a true immersion in Ionian flavors and traditions. Dinner is served at the renowned Borgo Saverona, and you’ll stay overnight at B&B Vittorio Emanuele, just steps from the sea.

    Day 2From Cirò Marina to San Giovanni in Fiore – From the Coast to the Sila Mountains

    After a leisurely breakfast with sea views, you continue south, passing through Torre Melissa and Marina di Strongoli, each a mix of coastal charm and rural tradition. Soon, the route turns inland, following the beautiful Silana-Crotonese road, which traces the wild Neto River through deep gorges and dense greenery.
    The long but rewarding climb reveals a changing landscape—from olive trees to chestnut forests—until you reach the mountain town of San Giovanni in Fiore, the spiritual heart of the Sila Grande. Famous for its 12th-century Florense Abbey, founded by Joachim of Fiore, a mystic revered by Dante himself, this town is a place of reflection and history.
    Your home for the night is La Casa di Gioacchino B&B, near the abbey. Dinner is hosted at “U Curtigliu”, where you’ll enjoy the flavors of the Silamushrooms, cured meats, hearty cheeses, potatoes, and rustic mountain bread fresh from the wood-fired oven.

    Day 3From San Giovanni in Fiore to Cosenza – Through the Heart of the Sila

    This morning, after a revitalizing breakfast, you’ll ride along the SS107 Silana-Crotonese, one of Italy’s most scenic mountain roads. You’ll pass through Lake Arvo and Lake Cecita, surrounded by pine forests, alpine meadows, and grazing horses. This is the Sila at its most majestic.
    A stop in Camigliatello Silano offers the perfect break for a snack and time to explore this beloved mountain village, famous for its local woodwork and seasonal markets. Then begins your descent through the Pre-Sila hills, where wide views stretch over the Crati Valley.
    By afternoon, you arrive in Cosenza, a vibrant city rich in culture and history. You’ll stay at the Royal Hotel, centrally located for exploring the town. Dinner is served at the Locanda Cosentina, where traditional Bruzio cuisine shines—stockfish, peppers, handmade pasta, walnut-based desserts, and local wine.

    Day 4From Cosenza to Sibari via Tarsia Lake – Riding Through the Heart of Calabria

    The final day of riding begins with a smooth descent across the Crati Valley, past vineyards, farmlands, and sleepy towns. One of the highlights of the day is Lake Tarsia, a protected nature reserve that offers spectacular scenery and a peaceful stop for photos and reflection.
    From here, the route continues through the countryside until you return to Sibari, where the tour comes full circle. You’ll check into Hotel Magna Grecia, conveniently located near the station. That evening, the group will be transferred by shuttle to Villapiana Lido for a farewell dinner by the sea—a celebratory meal to share stories, raise glasses, and toast to a journey well ridden.

    Map
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    Duration – Distance – Ascent – Descent
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    Road Types – Surfaces
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    Elevation Gain
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    Photos