Cycling in Basilicata means living two experiences: exploring permanent routes with wild charm independently or participating in events that transform two wheels into a moment of encounter.
The Anello dei Parchi Lucani (Lucanian Parks Loop) is the symbolic route: 725 km in 15 stages connecting Maratea to the Sassi di Matera (UNESCO World Heritage), from the Rabatana of Tursi to the Monticchio Lakes. One climbs to Serra di Crispo (1,445 m) to descend toward the Ionian Sea, passing through Valsinni, Colobraro, the Calanchi Park, and Craco Vecchia.
The Ciclovia Meridiana outlines 308 km starting from Potenza, reaching 1,372 meters at Madonna del Sasso and utilizing the former Calabro-Lucana railway with its bridges and tunnels. For vertical descents, there is the 2mulozer0: 75 km of MTB from the 2,000 meters of Mount Sirino to the sand of Maratea through the Noce Valley. The Basilicata Coast to Coast offers corners that are otherwise invisible, such as the Caffaro stream valley or the Zagaria waterfall, or stories like that of the 6 Towers or “Apprezzami L’Asino.” Or panoramas like those from the Cenobio dei monaci. Or finally, places to visit like the Ethno-anthropological Museum.
The 2026 calendar starts with the Pollino Marathon (June 27-28 from San Severino Lucano): 400 athletes over three distances, with tracks that are 90% unpaved. The Trofeo dell’Aglianico in the Vulture area hosts young European talents. For adventure without a stopwatch, there is the Basilicata Bike Trail Coast to Coast (May 30-June 2): from Metaponto to Maratea.
Gravel lovers can challenge the Basilicata Trail Explorer (540 km, 10,000 m of elevation gain) or the Corsa dei Tre Mari (518 km from Polignano to Gioia Tauro). For families: Abt Festival in Castelluccio Inferiore and Open Bike in Chiaromonte.
The Apt Basilicata apps (Basilicata Free To Move and Route Basilicata) offer GPS tracks, bike repair shops, bike hotels, and water fountains. Basilicata on two wheels is one wonder after another.
