Itinerary for September 1-8
September 1
Arrival in Italy at Bologna Airport. Transfer departing at 2:00 PM from the airport to the city of Cattolica. Free time to explore the city, followed by a briefing with the staff at 6:00 PM. Dinner at the hotel.
September 2
Breakfast and departure for cycling – Time Trial Climb Stage of the Giro d’Italia 2019.
Our destination will be San Marino, with its beautiful panorama from 700 meters above sea level. We will follow the route taken by the Giro d’Italia in 2019, known as the Cronoscalata di Montegiardino, with a photo stop at the monument dedicated to this stage, called the “Stage of Wine.” We will continue along its impressive walls to the castle entrance and then return to the hotel via the fun descent of Mercatino.
Distance: Approximately 90 km, elevation gain: 1,500 m.
Lunch and dinner at the hotel.
For Companions: Transfer to San Marino and a city tour with a walking tour lasting about 2 hours, meeting up with the cyclists.
September 3
Breakfast and departure for cycling – Il Carpegna mi basta – Marco Pantani.
This will be “challenge day,” featuring one of the most thrilling climbs, Carpegna, Marco Pantani’s “training ground.” Prepare for excitement as reaching the top of “Il Cielo del Pirata” (the Pirate’s Sky) is a milestone in every cyclist’s life.
Distance: 135 km, elevation gain: 2,000 m.
Return to the hotel around 2:30 PM.
Lunch and dinner at the hotel.
For Companions: Hiking/trekking from Cattolica to Tetto del Mondo within Monte San Bartolo Natural Park, offering wonderful views over the Adriatic Sea, with a coffee stop in charming Gabicce Monte (approximately 12 km).
September 4
Breakfast and departure for cycling – Malatesta Castles and Urbino.
This region is rich in castles and fortresses built by the Malatesta family during the Middle Ages, each with its unique characteristics and beauty. We will visit the village of Saludecio, Mondaino, and the stunning city of Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The route features continuous ups and downs, so remember to conserve energy for the return trip.
Distance: 95 km, elevation gain: 1,500 m.
Lunch and dinner at the hotel.
For Companions: Transfer with a visit to Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
September 5
Breakfast and departure for cycling – Gradara, Via Panoramica, Pesaro, and Fano.
One of the most famous routes in the region passes through beautiful Gradara and Via Panoramica, considered one of Italy’s most scenic cycling roads. Coffee stop in charming Gabicce Monte.
Distance: 80 km, elevation gain: 1,200 m.
Lunch and dinner at the hotel.
For Companions: Transfer with a visit to Gradara Castle and Fano, an ancient city founded by Romans. Stroll through the center and enjoy coffee with cyclists.
September 6
Breakfast and a day off to visit stands at the Italian Bike Festival and pick up your kit for La Gialla Granfondo. Lunch and dinner at the hotel. September 7
Participation in Granfondo La Gialla. Lunch at the hotel followed by a celebratory dinner.
September 8
Breakfast and transfer to Bologna Airport departing at 9:00 AM. Arrivederci Italia!
This itinerary provides an exciting mix of cycling challenges while exploring historical sites and enjoying local culture in Italy’s beautiful regions during your stay for La Gialla Cycling event!
