Cycling

Cycling enthusiasts visiting Imola are in for a treat, as the town and its surrounding landscapes offer some of the most scenic and varied cycling routes in Emilia-Romagna. Imola, famous for its motorsport heritage, is also a gateway to an extensive network of cycling paths that allow riders to explore the region's natural beauty, historic sites, and charming rural villages. Among the highlights is the Santerno Cycle Route.

Santerno Cycle Route

The Santerno Cycle Route is a stunning 44-kilometre cycling trail that winds its way through some of the most picturesque landscapes of the Emilia-Romagna region, with a particular focus on the area surrounding the famous Imola circuit. This scenic trail is a fantastic way for cyclists to explore the natural beauty, rolling hills, and charming villages that define this part of Italy, while also offering a peaceful contrast to the speed and excitement of the racetrack.

The Santerno Cycle Route follows the course of the Santerno River, which flows through the lush countryside of the Imola area, creating a natural corridor through the hills and valleys. As cyclists journey along the route, they are treated to a constantly changing landscape, with the backdrop of gentle hills, fields of vineyards, forests, and picturesque rural villages. The route is ideal for both seasoned cyclists and beginners, offering a relatively easy ride through stunning nature and providing plenty of opportunities for breaks and exploration.

Along the trail, cyclists can pause to admire the diverse flora and fauna, and take in the unique landscape of the Emilia-Romagna region, often referred to as the "food valley" of Italy. The hills around Imola are dotted with traditional farmhouses, olive groves, and vineyards, offering cyclists a taste of the region's rural charm. The Santerno Valley, in particular, is known for its agricultural wealth, including the production of local wines, olive oil, and fresh produce.

The Santerno Cycle Route offers cyclists a chance to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Some of the key highlights along the route include:

1. Imola Circuit and Surroundings
   As the trail begins near the Imola circuit, cyclists can enjoy the proximity to the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari.

2. The Santerno River
   The route is named after the Santerno River, which serves as the central feature of the cycle path. The river flows through the valley and is the perfect companion for the ride, offering cyclists views of rippling waters, ancient stone bridges, and shaded riverbanks lined with willow trees. The river is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, and cyclists may spot various birds, small mammals, and fish as they cycle along its banks.

3. Picturesque Villages
   As the route weaves through the countryside, cyclists will pass through charming villages and small towns, where they can stop to sample local specialities and experience the traditional Italian lifestyle. Villages like Casalfiumanese, Fontanelice, and Borgo Tossignano are nestled along the route and are perfect for a quick rest or a leisurely exploration. These villages are rich in history and offer a taste of authentic Italian village life, complete with quaint piazzas, historic buildings, and cosy cafes.

4. Historic Sites and Monuments
   The Santerno Cycle Route also passes near several historic landmarks, making it a great choice for those interested in cultural heritage. 

5. Vineyards and Olive Groves
   Emilia-Romagna is famous for its culinary delights, and cyclists along the Santerno Cycle Route are often surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The rolling hills are home to numerous wineries and olive oil producers, and cyclists can stop at local agriturismos (farm stays) and restaurants to taste some of the region’s most famous products, such as Lambrusco wine and Piadina flatbread. The route’s proximity to some of Italy's best agricultural regions allows for unique cultural and gastronomic experiences along the way.

6. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
   Beyond cycling, the Santerno River and its surrounding landscape are perfect for other outdoor activities, such as birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking. The route is part of the broader Santerno Valley region, which features rolling hills, deep forests, and open meadows, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. Cyclists can take detours along smaller trails to explore deeper into the hills or visit local nature reserves.

You can find the route map here.