The Val di Neto Greenway is a new cycle touring route through nature, villages, and history in the heart of Calabria.
If cycle tourism is your passion, you absolutely need to discover the cycling routes that let you experience Calabria by bike. After the well-known Ciclovia dei Parchi, there’s a new destination to add to your map: the Val di Neto Greenway, a gentle and sustainable itinerary inaugurated in 2024 that connects river landscapes, authentic villages, and cultural heritage over 38 km in the heart of the Crotone province.
A route through river, nature, and history
The Greenway follows the course of the Neto River, crossing six Calabrian towns nestled in a lush and lesser-known valley. Far from mass tourism, this route is designed for those who enjoy discovering authentic places at a slow pace: pedaling or walking through hills, vineyards, and villages, you’ll breathe in the most intimate soul of Calabria.
The route was developed along an ancient mule track using eco-friendly materials, blending into the landscape without disturbing its natural beauty. It runs alongside valuable natural environments such as Sites of Community Importance (SCI), Special Protection Areas (SPA), and Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), offering unforgettable views and rich biodiversity to observe along the way.
An added value? Its direct connection to the Ciclovia dei Parchi della Calabria, near Lake Ampollino, making this route part of an even broader cycle touring network.
The villages to discover along the route
Each stop along the Greenway invites you to slow down. The six towns along the way preserve a rich historical and cultural heritage:
- Caccuri, one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy”, with its panoramic castle and medieval alleys.
- Santa Severina, a real gem perched on a rocky outcrop, featuring a Norman cathedral and castle.
- Strongoli, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea and fine wines like the “Val di Neto” IGT.
- Rocca di Neto, Belvedere Spinello, and Scandale, each with their own traditions, ancient churches, rock-hewn sanctuaries, and welcoming communities.
The journey becomes an immersive experience: between rides and rest stops, you can taste local cuisine, discover authentic crafts, and feel part of the territory.
Useful information
- Route length: 38 km
- Elevation gain: gentle, suitable for less experienced cyclists or families
- Recommended bike type: gravel, trekking bike, or MTB
- Best time to visit: spring and autumn for ideal weather and lush scenery
- Accommodations and services: agritourisms, B&Bs, and bike-friendly lodgings in the villages along the way
Why choose the Val di Neto for your next cycling holiday
The Val di Neto Greenway is much more than a bike path: it’s a journey through time and nature, a chance to discover an authentic and surprising Calabria, far from traditional tourist routes.
Whether you’re an experienced cycle tourist or a traveler looking for a peaceful and captivating route, this trail will win you over with its understated beauty and gentle rhythm.
