ROME - SWEET AND WILD
The "Eternal City" was built on seven hills. However, its top biking area is the Apennines.
When Romulus founded the city of Rome in 753 BC, he unfortunately did not think in a very bike-friendly way. All seven hills were walled up with villas, churches, forums, fountains and amphitheatres. But even in this jungle of historic walls, there are green oases for bikers. The Romans like to romp around on the trails that wind through the city's largest park, the Villa Doria Pamphili. But for the really big tour ride, head for the Apennines. Ancient Roman paths first lead out of the city on flat terrain and then climb up the flanks of the Abruzzo mountains. The highest peak in this Apennine group is the 2912 metre high Gran Sasso. In the barren rocky backdrop, you can still see wild horses and, if you're lucky, even wolves. The landscape is so untypically rugged and lonely for Italy that you will want to penetrate further and further into this wilderness. It is therefore best to combine a trip to Rome with a crossing of the Apennines. However, we recommend a guided tour with local guides. There are no good maps of the region. And without local knowledge, you soon realise that not all roads lead to Rome after all.
Guided tours From Rome to Pescara on the Adriatic coast, 5 stages, 408 km, 9450 metres in altitude (three variants possible). Incl. half board, support vehicle, luggage transport and return transfer 1195 euros. Info: www.alpstours.eu
From the Adriatic to Rome: 7 stages, 470 km, 9670 metres altitude, incl. support vehicle, luggage transfer and bike transport 1149 euros. Info: www.mtb-fahrtwind.de
The DAV Summit Club offers tours through Rome with trail circuits. Incl. accommodation from 329 euros. www.dav-summit-club.de
Events 24-hour race with city tour on a bike in September. Info: www.24hroma.it
Insider tips from Silvia Rey (www.alpstours.eu)
Stylish accommodation at a favourable price: Donna Camilla Savelli, Via Garibaldi 27, www.hoteldonnacamillasavelli.com
Delicious Jewish dishes in a historic setting: Trattoria Da Giggetto, www.trattoriadagiggetto.com
Nightlife: Romans meet after dinner in Piazza Trilussa in Travestevere (many bars around the square).
Gitta Beimfohr
Editor
