History and nature are the themes of this itinerary, a trip through the heart of Montefeltro.
The route is quite undulating and does not have any particularly difficult climbs (max. alt. 550 m). The hilly sections are separated by long stretches of flat road.

URBINO

SANT’ANGELO IN VADO
CASCATA DEL SASSO
PIANDIMELETO

How to reach Urbino:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Pesaro Exit • follow road signs for Urbino (S.P 423)
From Inland: S.S. 73 bis, follow road signs for Urbino

Start: The start point is piazzale Mercatale in Urbino (car and bus park). The piazzale is located under Palazzo Ducale and has a telephone,

bar and fountain. The car park gets rather full during winter months.
km. 0      Zero the milometer under the arch in via Mazzini [⬆️ 420]. At the stop sign, turn right towards Arezzo. Continue along the main road
(S.S. 73 bis) following the signs for Urbania.
km. 12,2 Start the descent towards Urbania. Take care on the bends!
km. 14,9 Urbania is at the bottom of the hill [⬆️280]. 500 m. further on, continue to the right towards S.Angelo in Vado and at the next roundabout keep on the road to S.Angelo in Vado.
km. 16,3 At the crossroads, go straight-on in the direction of S.Angelo in Vado. Follow the signs for S.Angelo in Vado for a few kilometres.
km. 23,5 At the set of traffic lights, go straight-on. On the left the industrial zone and the Cascata del Sasso.
km. 24,3 Sant’Angelo in Vado [⬆️355]. After 200 m, turn right at the junction towards Piandimeleto. The road starts to climb.
km. 28,6 At the junction, continue straight-on towards Piandimeleto [⬆️550]. After approximately 2 km of more or less level road, continue downhill towards Piandimeleto.
km. 34,4 Piandimeleto is at the bottom of the hill [⬆️319], 100 m further on follow the signs for Mercatale (from hereon, the route continues straight along the Valle del Foglia to Km 60).
km. 34,7 At the stop sign, follow the directions to Mercatale. 500 m. further on, follow the signs for Lunano.
km. 36,5 Lunano [⬆️297], 200 m. further on, follow the signs for Mercatale.
km. 36,9 At the junction, follow the signs for Lunano. After 500 m, continue following the signs for Lunano.
km. 37,7 Follow the signs for Pesaro. For the next few km, continue towards Pesaro - Urbino.
km. 44,7 Mercatale. At the next junction, and for the next few km, follow the signs for Pesaro.
km. 54,3 Follow the signs for Casinina. Continue towards Casinina for the next few km.
km. 55,9 Start of Casinina [⬆️135]. Follow the signs for Pesaro for the next few km.
km. 57,9 Start of a fast stretch of main road. Follow the signs for Pesaro.
km. 60,3 At the junction, follow the signs for Urbino. Continue following the signs for Urbino for the next few km. After 1.3 Km, the road starts to climb towards Urbino.
km. 63,6 Villa Schieti. Follow the signs for Urbino for the next few km.
km. 68,8 Gadana [⬆️378].
km. 70,9 Start of Urbino.
km. 72 Follow the signs for Pesaro, Fano, Roma.. Follow this same direction at the next roundabout.
km. 73,5 At the roundabout, follow the signs for Arezzo.
km. 74.7 Arrival in Piazza Mercatale.

tourist information

Urbino ⬆️420 ➡️35
Standing on two hills, Urbino is the ancient capital of the Montefeltro dukedom. The city is one of the most important art centres in the world and has been recognised by UNESCO as being a world heritage site. Its ancient origins date back to the III Century B.C. when Urvinum Mataurense received the title of Roman municipality. During its century-long history, Urbino enjoyed a period of maximum splendour during the Renaissance period under the “enlightened” rule of Duca Federico da Montefeltro, of which palazzo Ducale (ducal palace) is the symbolic monument. Palazzo Ducale currently houses works of art including the “Flagellation” and the “Madonna di Senigallia” by Piero della Francesca and “The Portrait of a Lady” by Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio). Places to visit: The Oratory of San Giovanni to admire the frescoes by the Salimbeni brothers, the birthplace of Raphael, the monastery of Santa Chiara and the “Duomo”. A visit to the Albornoz fortress (Fortezza Albornoz) is highly recommended, and from where there is a beautiful panorama over the city and valleys beneath. Urbino is quite a lively place, thanks also to the presence of numerous students attending the city's prestigious and ancient University.
Information: I.A.T. - Tourist Office, tel. 0722 2613.

Sant'Angelo in Vado ⬆️355 ➡️63
A town in the Upper Metaurus Valley built on the ruins of the ancient Roman Tiphernum Mataurense. Sant'Angelo in Vado is the birthplace of the brothers Taddeo and Federico Zuccari, famous painters who were active in XVI Century Rome. The town's numerous monuments include: the fourteenth century Palazzo della Ragione overlooked by the Torre Civica from the same period, Palazzo Grifoni, the Cathedral dedicated to San Michele Arcangelo (St. Michael the Archangel), the town's patron saint, and the church of San Francesco. The area is also truffle country and each year hosts the important “Marche White Truffle National Show”.
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0722 88455.

Cascata del Sasso ⬆️359 ➡️63
In the area of the industrial estate of Sant'Angelo in Vado, the Metaurus River falls naturally to form the Cascata del Sasso, one of the ten largest natural falls in Italy, 60 metres wide and dropping a distance of 15 metres. The rather abrupt change in level that produces this spectacular scenario is the result of heterogeneous rock formations along the course of the river. Along this stretch, in particular, the Metaurus crosses, in this order, the Schlier, Biscario and Scaglia Cinerea formations. A convenient parking area with services for campers is located opposite the waterfall.

Piandimeleto ⬆️319 ➡️56
The town is situated on the upland plain of the Upper Foglia Valley (Alta Valle del Foglia). Immersed in lush greenery, it is a haven for nature loving tourists and day-trippers. A characteristic feature of Piandimeleto is the “Castello dei Conti Oliva” located in the medieval heart of the old centre and dating back to the XV Century. Another place worth visiting is the parish church of San Biagio where there are two gothic tombstones and a fresco dated 1576. The mushroom festival and fair is held every year in San Sisto.
Information: Town Hall, tel. 0722 721121; Town museums, tel. 0722 721528.

The proposed itinerary leads the cyclist through the heart of the natural park of Sasso Simone e Simoncello, through an enchanting and quiet countryside. The main characteristic of the tour is the unique landscape with its two giant rocks or “Sassi”. A difficult itinerary which climbs up to 1000 metres.

SASSOCORVARO
PARCO REGIONALE
DEL SASSO SIMONE E SIMONCELLO
CARPEGNA
BELFORTE ALL’ISAURO


How to reach Sassocorvaro:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Pesaro Exit • follow road signs for Urbino (S.P. 423) • Ca Gallo • Mercatale
From Inland: S.S. 73 bis to Sant'Angelo in Vado • Piandimeleto • Mercatale


Start: Sassocorvaro: the start point is in Piazza Garibaldi. The piazza is in front of the castle “Rocca Ubaldinesca”, which also provides a good reference point. Here, we are in the old centre, which is well equipped with all the amenities for touring cyclists.
Km. 0      From the piazza, take via S.Francesco [⬆️330] passing alongside the town hall. 50 m from the start, turn right at the stop sign.
The road goes down towards Mercatale [⬆️203].
Km. 1,2   Mercatale. After 600 m., turn left at the roundabout towards Carpegna, Belforte all'Isauro.
Km. 3,4   At the junction, follow the signs for Piandimeleto, Lunano.
Km. 9,1   Continue on towards Lunano, Belforte all'Isauro. Lunano is reached after 100 m.
Km. 10,3 At the fork, (signpost right for Lunano and left for Urbania) go straight on.
Km. 11,3 At the junction, turn right towards Carpegna, Frontino. At the next junction, immediately after the first one, turn right again towards Carpegna, Frontino.
Km. 11,4 At the stop sign, turn right. Continue down towards Carpegna. The road is more or less flat for a few km, after which it starts to climb up to Carpegna.
Km. 17,8 Continue towards Carpegna.
Km. 18,3 The road enters the “Parco del Sasso Simone e Simoncello”.
Km. 22,4 At the junction, turn left towards Carpegna.
Km. 22,5 Carpegna [⬆️709]. At the junction, continue straight-on towards “Passo Cantoniera”. To visit the old centre of Carpegna, turn right.
Km. 24,1 At the junction, follow the signs for Pennabilli. 500 m. further on, follow the signs for Passo della Cantoniera.
Km. 28,2 Passo della Cantoniera is at the top of the hill [ 1007 m]. At the pass, there is a road junction: turn left for Valpiano, Miratoio, Sestino. Sasso Simone is on the left.
Km. 33,5 At the stop sign, turn left towards Sestino, Miratoio.
Km. 38    Road junction with no signposts: turn left. After the junction the road arrives at Miratoio [⬆️835].
Km. 40,5 Val di Ceci di Sopra. Once through the village, the roads starts a long uphill climb, approximately 3 km. Once through the pass [⬆️949] the road goes downhill again. Take maximum care! The road is narrow with dangerous bends and steel slopes.
Km. 48,5 The stop sign signals the bottom of the hill. Turn left for Sestino, Pesaro. The hamlet of Sestino starts after 700 m.
Km. 50,1 Continue towards Pesaro, Monterone. Follow the signs for Pesaro for the next few km.
Km. 54,6 Monterone [⬆️ 428]. Belforte all'Isauro is reached after 2.2 km.
Km. 59,4 Piandimeleto [⬆️319]. 50 m after the traffic lights, follow the signs for San Angelo in Vado. 1.4 km further on, follow the signs for Carpegna, Mercatale.
Km. 61,3 Continue towards Lunano. Lunano is reached after 1.3 km.
Km. 62,9 At the junction, follow the signs for Mercatale, Lunano.
Km. 70,8 Mercatale. Follow the signs for Pesaro. 600 m. further on, follow the signs for Sassocorvaro.
Km. 72,2 At the junction, turn right towards Sassocorvaro. Sassocorvaro is reached after 1.5 km.
Km. 74    The road arrives at Piazza Garibaldi.


tourist information

Sassocorvaro ⬆️330 ➡️60
From its hilltop position, the town dominates the Foglia Valley and is reflected in the waters of the artificial lake of Mercatale. The town extends along the side of the hill from where it is possible to admire the splendid panorama of Montefeltro. Of notable interest is the XV Century “Rocca Ubaldinesca” designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini.
The interior of the castle houses a perfectly preserved small theatre and an art gallery. The castle was used during the Second World War as a secret storage place for the more important Italian works of art, hidden there to prevent them from being plundered by the retreating Germans. For a number of years now, this event has been remembered through an initiative called "L'Arca dell'Arte", which honours the modern-day saviours of major works that would otherwise have been lost forever. Worthy of note is the XVIII Century Palazzo Battelli.
Information: Town Hall, tel. 0722 76133; Tourist Office, tel. 0722 76873; Rocca Ubaldinesca, tel. 0722 76177.

Parco Regionale del Sasso Simone e Simoncello
This Natural Park was founded in 1994 by a regional law and covers a total area of 4,847 hectares. The “Communes” that make up the park are: Carpegna, Pennabilli, Frontino, Piandimeleto, Montecopiolo and Pietrarubbia. The park has numerous parking areas from where it is possible to visit the protected areas. The Nature Museum is also open to the public and has an annexed Visitor's Centre for schools and nature lovers. The two “rocks”, Simone (W 1204) and Simoncello (⬆️ 1221) are the main feature of the park with their immense square forms. The park is also home to numerous species of wild animals and birds, such as foxes, hares, roe and fallow deer, wild boar, peregrine falcons and the Apennine wolf. 
Information: Park Authority, tel. 0722 770073; Park Visitor's Centre, tel. 0722 75350.

Carpegna W751 R65
Carpegna is a well-known mountain locality on the slopes of the mountain of the same name. The numerous footpaths make the area the ideal place for walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders. At the entre of the village stands the admirable Princes' Palace, (Palazzo dei Principi) built in 1675 for Cardinal Gaspare di Carpegna. Among the religious buildings, the church of San Sisto with its splendid Romanesque crypt is also worthy of note. Carpegna is also a wellknown summer and winter tourist resort. 
Information: Comunità Montana del Montefeltro, tel. 0722 770073.

Belforte all'Isauro ⬆️344 ➡️60
This fortified hamlet is located in the upper Foglia valley on the border with Tuscany and stands on a rocky outcrop between the banks of the Isauro and Fossato rivers. At the entrance to the hamlet stands the parish church of S.Lorenzo which houses a painting by the Barrocci school and a crucifix which is said to be miraculous. The ancient threestorey castle is also rather interesting. 
Information: Town Hall, tel. 0722 721101.

The hills of Monte San Bartolo rise up overlooking the sea, providing a natural balcony and offering breathtaking scenery. The itinerary starts in Pesaro, runs along the hills as far as Gabicce Mare, to then inland through the hills between Marche and Romagna.
The route is an easy one, the only difficulty being the traffic on the final stretch.

PARCO DEL SAN BARTOLO
VILLA CAPRILE
VILLA IMPERIALE
GRADARA

How to reach Pesaro:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Pesaro Exit • follow road signs for “mare - Baia Flaminia”
From Inland: (from Rome) Superstrada Fano Grosseto, Fano Exit • Autostrada A14, Pesaro Exit (from Urbino) S.P. 423 road signs for Pesaro • at Pesaro follow road signs for “mare - Baia Flaminia”

Start: The starting point in Pesaro is in the Baia Flaminia quarter, near to the monument on the left bank of the river Foglia as it reaches the sea. There are numerous bars in the vicinity and a fountain near the monument.
km. 0      Baia Flaminia monument. Follow the cycle track on the left bank of the river Foglia in the “mare-monte” direction.
km. 0,7   At the roundabout, turn right for the “Strada Panoramica Adriatica” (S.p. 44). After a set of traffic lights, the road starts to climb.
km. 4,8   Continue straight-on [⬆️170] (left for Villa Imperiale).
km. 13,8 The road enters Fiorenzuola di Focara [⬆️180]. The road is undulating along this stretch.
km. 17,1 The road arrives at a junction, left for the S.S. 16, right for Casteldimezzo. Continue straight on.
km. 20,4 Continue straight-on (on the right, optional turn-off for an enchanting pause at Vallugola).
km. 22    The road enters Gabicce Monte [⬆️125].
km. 22,8 At the stop sign, turn left and down the hill. Gabicce Monte is on the right.
km. 24,6 At the stop sign, turn left towards Gradara.
km. 24,7 At the stop sign, turn right towards Gradara. You are now on the S.S.16 [⬆️17].
km. 25,7 Leave the S.S. 16, turning right towards Gradara.
km. 25,9 At the roundabout, follow the signs for Gradara.
km. 27,4 At the mini-roundabout, go straight-on towards Gradara.
km. 29,2 Gradara [⬆️50].
km. 29,4 Turn left and immediately after turn right towards the town centre “centro”. After 50 m, turn left again following the signs for the town centre “centro”. The road climbs up to the hamlet.
km. 30,2 Entrance to Castello di Gradara [⬆️109]. From here, continue down the same road, this time following the signs for Pesaro.
km. 31,1 Turn left towards Pesaro, “Strada del vino” (brown signpost).
km. 31,5 Turn right following the brown road signs “Strada del vino”.
km. 32,4 After the motorway, leave the ”strada del vino”, turning right towards Pesaro alongside the railway line.
km. 33,2 Turn right into via Babbucce (tunnel under the motorway). The road starts to climb!
km. 35  Babbucce [⬆️131]. After 100 m, at the stop sign, turn left into “strada Croce Babbucce”.
km. 35,2 At the junction, turn right towards Case Bruciate, through S.Germano.
km. 37,1 At the junction, turn left towards Pesaro. Warning: steep downhill with uneven road surface!
km. 38 Keep to the left passing over the motorway.
km. 39,4 Turn right onto S.p. 131 and down the hill.
km. 40    Pesaro signpost. At the roundabout, turn left towards the sea “mare”.
km. 41,1 At the roundabout, go straight-on towards the sea “mare”.
km. 42,6 At the traffic lights, keep to the right towards the sea “mare”.
km. 43,1 Villa Caprile is on the left.
km. 44,8 Turn left onto the road to Baia Flaminia just before the bridge over the river Foglia.
km. 45,4 Roundabout at the end of the port canal. Continue straight-on along the cycle track back to the start point of the tour (Km. 46,1).



tourist information

Parco del San Bartolo
The protected slopes of the hills extend over approximately 1,600 hectares and form a natural park of great interest as regards nature and cultural history. The hills rise to 200 metres above sea level and provide a wide panorama of the coast and the sea. The cliffs form an unusual marine landscape when compared to the usually sandy Adriatic coastline. At the foot of the cliffs there is a narrow stony beach formed by the fragments that have fallen from the cliffs themselves. These stones, called "cogoli" (cobbles) by the locals, were once used to pave the historic centres and the nearby coastal towns. The panoramic road that passes through the park is a must for cyclists. 
Information: Ente Parco S.Bartolo (S.Bartolo Park Authority), tel. 0721 371075.

Villa Caprile
The building, originally constructed (in 1640) for the noble Giovanni Mosca as a summer residence where he could relax and receive guests, was transformed from an aristocratic private villa into public building during the French Revolution when Pesaro was part of the Cisalpine republic. In 1876 it became the home of the Agricultural Training School, and in 1924 was transformed into a Secondary Agricultural School. Today, instead, it houses the Agricultural Institute. The botanical gardens and their eighteenth century fountains can be visited during the summer. 
Information: Villa Caprile, tel. 0721 21440.

Villa Imperiale
The villa was built from 1530 onwards in order to satisfy the most typical needs of the Renaissance courts for a villa life. The building is basically two historic monuments, one built on top of the other at different times and with different architectures: the fifteenth century body of the building was built for Alessandro Sforza and is based on fortification type architecture, while the upper part was commissioned in 1530 to Girolamo Genga by the Della Rovere family. The villa is surrounded by a typical Italian Renaissance garden. Visits to the villa must be booked in advance. 
Information: I.A.T. - Pesaro Tourist Office, tel. 0721 69341.

Gradara ⬆️142 ⬆️15
The fortified town of Gradara stands on a ridge that separates the regions of Romagna and Marche. The Rocca di Gradara, or Gradara Castle, is a magnificent example of twelfth to fourteenth century military architecture, with its commanding position dominating the surrounding territory. The castle was built on the orders of the De Grifo family and was further enlarged and decorated over the centuries by the different nobles who inherited it: the Malatesta, Sforza and Della Rovere families. Today, in addition to its monumental “Rocca”, Gradara also offers visitors its two rings of defensive walls and towers with their restored battlements and parapet walks. The areas between the walls still preserve their ancient houses and the church of S.Giovanni Battista. According to a centuries old legend, it was in the castle where Giovanni Malatesta, also known as 'Giovanni the Lame', murdered the lovers Paolo Malatesta and Francesca da Polenta, immortalised in the well-known verses of Dante Alighieri. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0541 964115.

The tour offers an ideal opportunity to visit the beautiful hamlets of the Lower Metaurus valley. The itinerary through the hills has some steep but short climbs and descents (max. alt. 417 m).

MOMBAROCCIO
BEATO SANTE
CARTOCETO
MUSEO DEL BALÌ


Start: The tour starts from Fano - Piazzale Amendola - in front of the west beach known as the "Lido”. The piazzale has a car park and public telephone. There are numerous bars and restaurants in the vicinity.
km. 0      The starting point is in the piazzale, at the mosaic “totem” opposite the beach. Cycling away from the sea, follow the road under the railway in the direction “mare-monte”.
km. 0,3   At the traffic lights, turn left and after 50 m turn immediately right towards “cimitero urbano”. At the top of the hill, turn left towards the cemetery (“cimitero”). At the next crossroads turn right towards Carignano.
km. 1,1   At the stop sign, turn right towards Carignano (white sign) [⬆️17].
km. 2      Leaving Fano, continue straight-on along the S.p. 45.
km. 4,5   Continue following the main road (S.p. 45) as far as Santa Maria dell'Arzilla.
km. 11,4 Santa Maria dell'Arzilla. At the junction, go straight-on towards Pesaro.
km. 12,8 [⬆️70] the road starts to climb steeply.
km. 14,2 At the fork [⬆️137] turn left for Sant'Angelo in Lizzola (S.p. 145).
km. 19    At the stop sign, turn left towards S. Angelo in Lizzola (S.p. 30), the road starts to climb.
km. 20,3 Ginestreto. At the next crossroads [⬆️254], turn right towards S.Angelo in Lizzola.
km. 22,3 Sant’Angelo in Lizzola [⬆️310]. At the next crossroads, turn left in the direction of Mombaroccio and immediately left again towards Monteciccardo (S.p. 31). The road climbs to Monteciccardo [⬆️382]. Here, the road starts to go downhill steeply.
km. 24,9 At the stop sign, turn left towards Mombaroccio (S.p. 26).
km. 28,8 Bottom of the hill [⬆️115]. After the bridge, the road climbs steeply to Mombaroccio.
km. 31,7 Mombaroccio. The entrance to the town [⬆️310] is at the top of the hill..
km. 32,4 At the junction, turn right towards Cartoceto (S.p. 26), the road starts to climb.
km. 33,5 Pass of Beato Sante. Continue along the main road. The monastery is on the left.
km. 34,3 At the junction for Fontecorniale, continue straight-on. Here ends the last climb of the tour[⬆️417]. Continue down towards Cartoceto.
km. 38,4 Cartoceto. The hamlet is on the left. Continue down along the main road towards Saltara.
km. 41,6 Saltara [⬆️160], turn left to visit the Museo del Balì. Stay on the main road, along the cobbled streets of the centre and continue down towards Calcinelli.
km. 44,7 Calcinelli is at the bottom of the hill [⬆️66]. At the traffic lights continue straight-on towards Fano. Pass under the dual carriageway and continue straight-on (S,p, 16 bis.)
km. 46,1 Villanova. The road runs level as far as Fano.
km. 46,8 Turn left towards the “campo sportivo” (white sign) S.p. 92 bis.
km. 50,5 At the stop sign, turn left towards Fano.
km. 56,1 At the fork, go left of the crucifix towards Fonte Avellana.
km. 58    At the roundabout, go straight-on towards Fano.
km. 59,5 Fano signpost. Outskirts of the city, S.Orso district.
km. 60,5 At the roundabout, follow the signs for Pesaro (via Papiria). At the next traffic lights, turn right towards Pesaro (via IV novembre).
At the second set of traffic lights, turn left towards Pesaro (via Gramsci). Keep straight along the main road.
km. 63,3 At the traffic lights, turn right towards the sea (“mare”) (via Carducci) and then into P.le Amendola. This is where the tour ends (Km 63,6).

tourist information

Mombaroccio ⬆️310 ➡️20
Lying on the ridge of a hill, the hamlet of Mombaroccio is surrounded by a robust scarped wall built to protect the ancient castle. Two impressive cylindrical towers overlook the entrance to the hamlet.
Worthy of note is Palazzo Dal Monte, once the home of the XVI Century Dal Monte family and then subsequently the summer residence of the Sforza and Della Rovere families. The church of S.Marco is worth a visit, as are the museums (Museum of country life, Museum of Sacred Art and the Embroidery museum), the caves and the vaults. From the walls, there is a splendid view of the hills of the Lower Metaurus Valley.
Information: Town Hall, tel. 0721 471103.

Beato Sante
A compulsory stop for visitors to Mombaroccio is the sanctuary of the Beato Sante (2 km from the centre of the hamlet), a centre of spirituality, art and culture. Of notable interest are the Church and Cloister which date back to 1536-1538. The complex also houses an art gallery. The woods surrounding the convent provide the visitors with shade and tranquillity, making it the ideal place to visit on a hot summer's day. 
Information: Mombaroccio Town Hall, tel. 0721 471103.

Cartoceto ⬆️225 ➡️25
Laid out in the form of a fan on the slopes of a hill, the ancient “castle” is characterised by its steep steps and narrow alleyways lined with houses built on various levels. The entire complex is surrounded by a scarped wall and preceded by the main square of the hamlet.
The unusual orographic conformation has meant that since the XIII Century, Cartoceto has been the most important centre in the Fano area for the cultivation of olives and hence the production of olive oil, which is an activity of primary importance for the area. Ancient knowledge linked to the cultivation of olives around Cartoceto dates back to 1178. In November, in fact, during the harvesting and oilmaking period, the square is transformed into a large market where the olive growers and mills from the area present their products. Places to visit include the eighteenth century theatre “Teatro del Trionfo” built inside the walls of an ancient crushing mill. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 898437.

Museo del Balì
The building housing the museum stands on a large hill terrace behind the small town of Saltara. The building itself is of ancient origin, as confirmed by a document stating the owner as being the Bishop of Fano as far back as 1165. The bishop, in fact, added the 4 towers to observe the “vault of heaven”. Today, the villa houses one of the most prestigious national planetarium with 35 fixed interactive exhibits, laboratories and teaching projects, an astronomical observatory, a congress centre, a space dedicated to temporary exhibitions and a 50-seat planetarium named after the well-known scientist Giuseppe Occhialini. The services also include a bookshop and a cafeteria.
Information: Museo del Balì, tel. 0721 892390.

The itinerary winds its way around the Furlo and Cesane mountain chains through a spectacular landscape. The two main climbs (Cesana and Passo di S.Gregorio) include a number of steep sections alternating with easier and rather picturesque valley roads. An easy uphill stretch leads to the town of Urbino (max. alt. 588 m).

GOLA DEL FURLO
FOSSOMBRONE
MONTI DELLE CESANE
FERMIGNANO

How to reach Furlo:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Fano Exit • Superstrada for Rome. Furlo Exit
From Inland: Superstrada Grossetto-Fano, Acqualagna Exit • Follow road signs for Furlo

Start: The start of the itinerary is in the “piazzale” in front of the “Centro documentazione della Riserva del Furlo” (Furlo Reserve Document Centre) in the town of Furlo. The piazza has a car park, fountain, bar and public telephone.
km. 0      Leave the piazzale [⬆️188] and turn right onto via Flaminia (S.S. 3). The route crosses Gola del Furlo (Furlo Gorge).
km. 2,3   Traffic lights prior to entering the Roman tunnel [⬆️188]. Continue straight-on.
km. 5      At the dual carriageway [⬆️155] turn left towards Calmazzo (S.S. 3).
km. 7,2   Calmazzo [⬆️141]. Keep to the right in the direction of Pesaro.
km. 9,8   Continue straight-on (on the right, optional turn-off for Marmitte dei Giganti).
km. 11    Town of Fossombrone [⬆️110], continue straight-on towards Fano (4 sets of traffic lights).
km. 17,4 Ponte degli Alberi [⬆️74]]: after crossing a bridge, turn left for Isola del Piano, the road starts to climb.
Follow the road to Isola del Piano.
km. 23,6 Isola del Piano [⬆️170]. At the village (situated on the left), turn right before the small bridge (Km 24.4) following the signs for Gallo di Petriano. The road climbs and has sharp bends.
km. 28,5 Scotaneto [⬆️365]. Turn left for Urbino. After 200 m, turn left following the signs for Petriano, 50 m further on turn left following the signs for Monti delle Cesane.
km. 31,6 At the crossroads, turn right for Urbino [⬆️356]. The road goes through the Monti delle Cesane hill range, climbing up to an altitude of 588 m. Continue along the main road following the signs for Urbino.
km. 46    Urbino.
km. 47,7 At the roundabout take the left exit (7-o-clock) towards Fermignano. The road starts to go downhill. Dangerous section of road due to traffic. Take maximum care. The city if Urbino is a good place to stop. To visit the city, follow the signs for “Centro”.
km. 53,2 Fermignano [⬆️192]. Turn right towards Fermignano. 70 m further on, turn left following the signs for Fermignano. The route passes through the Fermignano industrial area.
km. 57,2 At the traffic lights, continue straight on. 200 m further on, turn left following the signs for Acqualagna [⬆️ 203]. Here is the second climb on the itinerary. The road climbs to Passo di S.Gregorio [W384].
km. 61,9 Over the pass [⬆️384]. The road starts to go downhill towards Acqualagna. Pay particular attention on the bends which can be sudden and very tight.
km. 65,4 Acqualagna [⬆️215]. Continue straight-on towards Fano. At the stop sign, turn left towards Fano along via Flaminia (S.S. 3).
km. 67,5 Abbey of S.Vincenzo al Furlo [⬆️185].
km. 70,2 The route arrives back at the “piazzale” in front of Furlo Reserve Offices.

tourist information

Furlo gorge ⬆️ 976 max
The state-owned nature reserve of “Gola del Furlo” includes monte Pietralata and monte Paganuccio. Situated a mere 30 km from the coast, the nature reserve lies on the edge of the Apennines and offers landscapes and panoramas that are unique to this mountainous region.
The ancient Roman road the “Flaminia Way” passes through the gorge and was built between 224 and 220 B.C. The tunnel, built by Emperor Vespasian, which leads into the gorge is worthy of note. Alongside this tunnel, though barely visible, is the previous tunnel built by the Etruscans as far back as 450 B.C. Information: Tourist Information Centre, tel. 0721 700041.

Fossombrone ⬆️110 ➡️37
The ancient town of Fossombrone lies along the Flaminia Way and stands between the spurs of the Cesane mountains and the steep northern slopes of the Cappuccini hills. The ancient city of Forum
Sempronii is a splendid example of the balance between economic activities and environmental protection. The city is surrounded by the lush green hills of the Cesane mountains, offering all kinds of amenities for the traveller and numerous opportunities for cycling on
both touring and mountain bikes. Places to visit: the citadel (the oldest and probably the most fascinating part of the city), the Vernarecci Museum and Art gallery, the Cesarini Picture Gallery, and
the stupendous Roman spa complex at S. Martino del Piano.
Information: I.A.T. - Tourist Office, tel. 0721 716324.

The Cesane mountains ⬆️648 max
The Cesane Mountains that link Fossombrone with Urbino are covered for the most part by shady forests of conifers. The transplanting was started in 1916 by Austrian prisoners of war and subsequently continued with extensive reforestation work, which has extended the woodlands for several kilometres in the direction of Urbino. The particular conformation of the ground is a true
paradise for cyclists, with low rises and panoramas of Romagna and the Metaurus valley providing breathtaking scenery. The Cesane Mountains constitute the most important biological agriculture
production area in Italy.

Fermignano ⬆️192 ➡️45
The town stands on the left bank of the Metaurus river and is surrounded by a sinuous landscape of hills and small valleys. This is the place for cyclists, a large number of whom make use of rail-bikes
with which it is possible to reach the splendid city of Urbino along the old railway. It is on the nearby plain of S. Silvestro where the historic Battle of the Metaurus is said to have taken place in 207 B.C. in which the Romans defeated the Carthaginians under General Hasdrubal. In Corso Bramante, the visitor can admire the eye-catching portal of palazzo Calistri. The Palio della Rana (Frog Race), which has ancient origins, and the Gran Premio del Biciclo Ottocentesco (XIX century
Bicycle Grand Prix) are held every year. Information: Tourist Office, tel.
0722 330523.

This route winds around the slopes of Monte Catria where peace and silence reign undisturbed. Numerous steep climbs make the middle part of the tour particularly demanding. Good training beforehand is therefore necessary. A challenging tour, take your time!

CAGLI
FRONTONE
MONASTERY OF  FONTE AVELLANA
CANTIANO
BOSCO DI TECCHIE
MOUNTAIN COMPLEX OF MONTE CATRIA

How to reach Cagli:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Fano Exit • Superstrada direction Roma • Exit Cagli Ovest
From Inland: S.S. 3 Flaminia, Exit Cagli Ovest

Start: Start from piazza Matteotti in Cagli. This beautiful piazza is a good reference point for cyclists. The piazza can also be reached by car.
Beware of seasonal parking restrictions!
km. 0      Leave the square along via Leopardi. Continue straight-on as far as the tower (“Torrione”). At the stop sign, turn left [⬆️273].
km. 0,6   At the next stop sign, turn left towards Fano. After 200 m, turn right at the traffic lights towards Pergola.
km. 2,8   At the junction, continue straight-on towards Pergola (S.p. 424).
km. 7,2   San Savino [⬆️415].
km. 13,9 At the junction, follow the signs for Pergola.
km. 18,6 start of Pergola. After 200 m, turn right towards Pergola.
km. 19,3 Follow the signs for Fabriano, Sassoferrato. After 600 m, turn right at the traffic lights [⬆️263] towards Fabriano, Sassoferrato, Serra S.Abbondio.
km. 22,4 Go straight-on at the roundabout..
km. 23,7 Start of Bellisio Solfare [⬆️341].
km. 26,2 At the junction, follow the signs to the right for Fonte Avellana, Serra Sant'Abbondio.
km. 28,6 The road starts to climb up to Serra Sant'Abbondio. The top of the hill is reached after 2.5 km [⬆️520].
At the next junction: follow the signs for Urbino, Cagli, Frontone.
km. 35,2 Start of Frontone. 400 m further on, turn left at the roundabout towards Urbino, Cagli.
km. 36,3 At the junction, turn left towards Foce, Fonte Avellana [⬆️429].
km. 38,7 At the junction, turn left towards Fonte Avellana. The road starts to climb [⬆️485].
km. 42,8 The road goes over the pass [⬆️781]. Follow the road down to the (Abbey) Abbazia di Fonte Avellana. Warning, narrow road!
After 1.6 km, the road arrives at the Abbey [⬆️683].
km. 47,8 At the junction, turn right towards Scheggia [⬆️506]. The road starts to climb. After 2.5 km. the road arrives at the pass [⬆️624].
Follow the road downhill, very steep in places: take care!
km. 54,1 Start of Isola Fossara [⬆️444]. ]. End of the downhill stretch. After 200 m, turn right at the junction towards Scheggia.
km. 58,1 At the junction, turn right towards Cantiano, Cagli [⬆️515]. The road starts to climb. After 3.1 km. the road arrives at the pass [⬆️653 m]. Follow the road down towards Chiaserna.
km. 67,4 Start of Cantiano [⬆️360]. End of the downhill stretch. 100 m. further on, follow the signs for Pesaro.
km. 68,1 Immediately after the traffic lights at Cantiano, follow the signs to the right for Cagli, Fano. 200 m further on, at the roundabout, follow the signs to the right for Pesaro, Fano. Now the route continues along the ancient via Flaminia.
km. 69,7 Junction with the dual carriageway (on the left, deviation for Bosco di Tecchie). Here, take the road to the right and continue along the ancient via Flaminia. 2.1 km further on, follow the signs for Fano.
km. 72,4 Follow the signs for “Albergo Ristorante Pizzeria Terrazza sul Burano”. 400 m further on, follow the signs for Cagli.
km. 76,2 At the stop sign, follow the directions to Cagli. Cagli is reached after 400 m.
km. 77.4 Leave the main road at the junction, turning left to follow the signs for Pietralunga.
km. 77,7 Turn right at the tower (Torrione) to arrive at the piazza.
km. 78,1 Arrival at piazza Matteotti in Cagli.


tourist information

Cagli ⬆️273 ➡️63
Cagli is located along the ancient “via Flaminia” on the slopes of Monte Petrano near the confluence of the Burano and Bosso rivers. The area is also characterised by the presence of the eminent Catria and Nerone mountain chains.
One of the entrances to the city features the rather imposing Ponte Mallio Roman bridge. The symbol of Cagli is the elliptical Keep or “Torrione” built by Francesco di Giorgio Martini, as part of the XV Century fortifications. Today, the keep is the home of the Centre for Contemporary Scultpure. A precious fresco by Giovanni Santi, father of Raphael, is still preserved in the church of San Domenico. The city's theatre is also worthy of note. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 780773; Information Centre, tel. 0721 787457.

Frontone ⬆️420 ⬆️73
The town is situated on the slopes of Monte Catria, nestling between hills and valleys that make it a privileged destination for tourists and nature lovers. Places to visit include the castle which overlooks the valley, built in the XI Century and subsequently modified by Francesco di Giorgio Martini. Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 786302.

Monastery of Fonte Avellana ⬆️683
The monastery, which Dante mentions in the XXI canto of “Paradise” after his stay there, stands at the foot of Monte Catria on the eastern side of the mountain. The monastery was founded in circa 980 by San Romualdo, founder of the Camaldolesi monks. Today, the complex represents one of the most important monastic centres in the Marche Region. A compulsory stopover for cyclists in search of peace and refreshment. 
Information: Eremo di Fonte Avellana, tel. 0721 730261.

Cantiano ⬆️360 ➡️73
Cantiano is situated on the slopes of Monte Catria between the courses of the Burano and Bevano rivers. Worth a visit are the Collegiata di San Giovanni Battista and the Church of Sant'Agostino. A unique local event is the annual “Turba”, which is the re-enactment in costume of the Passion of Christ held on Good Friday. Information: Tourist Office, Tel. 0721 788321.

Tecchie woods
The Tecchie Woods can be found in the Serre di Burano area of Cantiano and extend over approximately 180 hectares. The prevalent species are the Adriatic oak and beech. The woods were established in 1986 and have been included in the oases of WWF Italia. A rich collection of fauna and flora characterise the woods. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 788321.

Monte Catria mountain range
It consists of Monte Acuto (W 1668), Monte Tenetra (W 1236) and Monte Catria which, with its 1,701 metres, is the highest peak in the northern sector of the Umbro-Marchigiano Apennine range. Numerous species of mountain flora make the summit of Monte Catria a place of notable botanical interest. Further down, instead, the slopes are covered with precious woods, mostly beech. The ideal place for climbers far away from the noise of traffic. 
Information: Comunità Montana del Catria e Nerone, tel. 0721 7877521.

The hills are the true feature of this itinerary which winds its way between the Cesano valley and the Tarugo Valley. There is little traffic on the road and the little-known hamlets and castles make this tour even more fascinating. The itinerary includes three climbs of medium difficulty (max. alt. 541 m) with slopes of up to 12%.

MONDAVIO
PERGOLA

How to reach Orciano di Pesaro:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Fano Exit • Superstrada direction Roma, Calcinelli Exit • direction Orciano di Pesaro (S.P. 49)
From Inland: Superstrada Grossetto-Fano, Calcinelli Exit • follow road signs for Oricano di Pesaro (S.P. 49)


Start:     The tour starts in pleasant piazza Garibaldi of Orciano di Pesaro located in the town centre. This piazza is a good reference point for cyclists with parking, bars and shops.
km. 0      Zero the milometer when leaving the piazza [W264 m]. From the piazza, take the road with no signposts that goes downhill next to the tourist office (Pro loco), and after 30 m turn left into via della Repubblica.
km. 0,3   At the stop sign, continue straight on.
km. 0,9   At the crossroads, turn left for Mondavio.
km. 2,1   At Mondavio, turn right for San Lorenzo in Campo. Branch off to the left to visit the centre of Mondavio.
Continue downhill along the S.p. 93.
km. 5,6   At the stop sign [⬆️120], turn right towards San Lorenzo in Campo (S.p. 424 “Val Cesano”).
km. 6,3   Leave the main road and turn right towards San Andrea di Suasa.
km. 8,4   At the stop sign, turn left towards San Lorenzo in Campo.
km. 9      At the stop sign, turn left towards San Lorenzo in Campo.
km. 10,4 At the stop sign, turn right towards Pergola. Continue once again along the main road (S.p. 424).
km. 12    San Lorenzo in Campo [⬆️168].
km. 13    after San Lorenzo in Campo, turn left towards Sassoferrato (S.p. 59).
km. 19,1 Madonna del Piano.
km. 22,6 Turn right towards Pergola [⬆️252]. The road starts to climb steeply.
km. 25,2 Top of the hill [⬆️420]. Continue straight-on towards Pergola. Downhill, take care on the bends!
km. 28,9 At the bottom of the hill [⬆️251], turn left at the stop sign towards Cagli.
km. 29,7 At the traffic lights, turn right towards the centre (“Centro”) along the full length of the “Corso” (main street) di Pergola.
km. 30,2 The road goes downhill towards the hospital. After the bridge (100 m), turn right.
km. 30,9 At the stop sign, continue straight-on towards Fossombrone. The road starts to climb (S.p. 40).
km. 37,5 Top of the hill [⬆️541]. Warning, take care on the steep downhill and bends!
km. 42,4 Cartoceto di Pergola [⬆️245]. Continue down towards Fossombrone.
km. 48,5 At the crossroads, turn right towards Isola di Fano [⬆️146]. The road is now level.
km. 49,2 At the crossroads, turn left for Fratterosa. The road starts to climb steeply (12%).
km. 51,2 Top of the hill [⬆️292]. After 200 m, at the crossroads, turn left towards Orciano di Pesaro (S.p. 41).
km. 53,3 At the stop sign, turn right towards Orciano di Pesaro. The road climbs up to Sorbolongo. And then on to Barchi.
km. 54,8 Sorbolongo [⬆️330]. The hamlet is on the left. Continue straight-on.
km. 57,8 Barchi centre. Continue straight-on.
km. 60,5 Orciano di Pesaro.
km. 61,4 Continue straight-on towards San Giorgio di Pesaro. Proceed for the old centre of Orciano di Pesaro.
km. 62,3 Arrival in Piazza Garibaldi of Orciano di Pesaro.


tourist information

Mondavio ⬆️280 ➡️40
The town overlooks the Cesano valley and dominates the landscape with its towers, bell-towers, defensive walls and imposing castle “Rocca Roveresca”. The castle, designed and built by the military architect Francesco di Giorgio Martini between 1482 and 1492, is a perfect example of military architecture and represents the most important monument in Mondavio. The castle houses the Museum of Historical Re-enactments and the Armoury. Around the castle, in what was once the moat, there is now a permanent exhibition of “war machines” used during the XV and XVI centuries. The exhibition, the only one of its kind, includes 12 reconstructions of catapults, bombards and other siege weapons built from the original plans of Francesco di Giorgio Martini. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 977331.

Pergola ⬆️297 ➡️63
The town lies in the upper Cesano river valley on a wide terrace at its confluence with the Cinisco. Pergola is rich in medieval architecture, with its stone buildings, tower-houses, lancet arch portals and basreliefs all confirming the town's importance over the centuries. Here there are numerous examples of religious architecture, with many restored churches that have been returned to their ancient splendour following the damage caused by the 1997 earthquake. The cathedral and the church of San Francesco are well worth a visit. Of particular interest are the public buildings of Palazzo Comunale, the ancient Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Malatesta and the eighteenth century “Angelo Dal Foco” theatre. The museum of the famous “Gilded Bronzes” is not to be missed. The “Bronzi Dorati” are, in fact, a monumental group of gilded bronzes dated from Roman times found near Cartoceto di Pergola in 1946. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 736469; Museo dei Bronzi Dorati (Museum of Gilded Bronzes), tel. 0721 734090.

San Lorenzo in Campo ⬆️168 ➡️50
San Lorenzo in Campo is located in the mid-Cesano valley. The town grew around the famous abbey of the same name (a prime example of the Romanesque style) founded by the Benedictine monks in the late medieval and built using the abundance of material from the destroyed Roman “municipium” (town hall) of Suasa. At the entrance to the ancient castle, reached through an arched passageway, stands the sixteenth century Palazzo Della Rovere which today houses three museographic collections: archaeology, African-ethnography and natural history. Also worth visiting is the nineteenth century “M. Tiberini” theatre with its elegant hall and boxes decorated entirely with neoclassic and liberty style painted motifs. The characteristic castles of Montalfoglio (⬆️ 393) and San Vito sul Cesano (⬆️ 353) also form a part of the commune of San Lorenzo, both still completely surrounded by robust scarped defensive walls. 
Information: TouristOffice, tel. 0721 776479.

The tour passes through unspoilt countryside, part of which lies inside the regional natural park of “Sasso Simone e Simoncello”
The route runs through parts of Marche, Romagna and the republic of San Marino, with continuous climbs and descents with one particularly difficult uphill stretch (max. alt. 986 m)… not for the weak-hearted!

SAN LEO
MACERATA FELTRIA
MONTECERIGNONE
MONTECOPIOLO

How to reach Macerata Feltria:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Pesaro Exit • follow road signs for Urbino (S.P. 423) • Ca Gallo • Mercatale
From Inland: S.S. 73 bis to Sant'Angelo in Vado • Piandimeleto • Mercatale

Start:      The start point is the Parish church of San Michele Arcangelo, in the old centre of Macerata Feltria (via G.Antimi).
Arriving from Mercatale, follow the signs to the town centre, cross “corso A. Battelli” and continue along “via Antimi”.
km. 0      With your back to the parish church [⬆️313], turn left and go straight-on for 100 m. At the stop sign, turn left towards Carpegna. At the next stop sign (50 m.), go straight-on along the S.p. 6. After approximately 2 km, the road begins to climb.
km. 5,4   Start of Mercato Vecchio [⬆️570]. At the next junction, follow the signs for San Leo.
km. 6,1   At the junction, follow the signs for Carpegna.
km. 7,1   Ponte Cappuccini. At the next junction, turn right towards San Leo. Follow the signs for San Leo for the next few kilometres as the road climbs.
km. 12,3 Villagrande di Montecopiolo [⬆️889]. At the next junction, turn left for San Leo.
km. 13,5 At the stop sign, turn left towards San Leo.
km. 14,4 Over the pass [⬆️986]. San Marino is on the right. Follow the road down towards San Leo.
km. 18    At the crossroads, turn right for San Leo, Rimini.
km. 21,3 San Leo [⬆️580]. At the junction, follow the signs for Rimini. Turn right at the next junction. Continue on towards Rimini.
km. 26,5 At the junction, turn right for San Marino. At the next junction turn right and cross over a bridge. After the bridge, the road starts to climb.
km. 28,9 Continue towards Monte Maggio, San Marino.
km. 32,5 At the junction, turn left towards San Marino. The road starts to descend. After 3.9 km., the road starts to climb again.
Continue in the direction of San Marino.
km. 39,4 Turn right at the roundabout towards Urbino. The climb ends here.
km. 41,4 At the junction, follow the signs for Urbino, Cattolica.
km. 42,5 Montelicciano [⬆️530]. Continue on towards Mercatino Conca. After 200 m., turn left at the junction towards Sassofeltrio.
200 m. further on, the road starts to descend.
km. 44,5 Continue on towards Cattolica, Sassofeltrio.
km. 45,6 Sassofeltrio [⬆️409]. Continue on towards Cattolica, Mercatino Conca. 200 m. further on, follow the signs for Pesaro, Cattolica.
km. 48,7 At the junction, turn left towards Mercatino Conca, at the bottom of the hill.
km. 51    Mercatino Conca [⬆️275]. At the junction, turn left towards Mercatino Conca.
km. 51,5 Continue towards S.Marino. At the stop sign, turn left for Macerata Feltria.
km. 52,6 At the junction, follow the signs for Macerata Feltria, Montecerignone. 3.6 km further on, follow the signs for Macerata Feltria.
km. 60    Abitato di Monte Cerignone [⬆️469]. At the junction, follow the signs for Macerata Feltria. 1.5 km further on,
follow the signs for Urbino. After approximately 2 km the road start going downhill [pass ⬆️623].
km. 67,7 Macerata Feltria. After 400 m., at the junction follow the signs for Pesaro, Urbino.
km. 68,2 The road arrives at the parish church of San Michele Arcangelo.

tourist information

San Leo ⬆️639 ➡️71
San Leo stands on an imposing and almost insuperable crag in the Marecchia river valley and can only be reached by a single road that has been cut into the rock. On the top of the rocky outcrop stands the “Rocca”, remodelled in the XV Century by Francesco di Giorgio Martini on the orders of Federico da Montefeltro. In addition to the castle, in which the famous alchemist Giuseppe Balsamo count of Cagliostro was imprisoned until his death, other places of interest include: the parish church and Romanesque cathedral, and Palazzo Mediceo which currently houses the Museum of Sacred Art. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel.0541 916306; Freephone 800553800.

Macerata Feltria ⬆️313 ➡️52
The ancient Pitinum Pisaurense stands in the hills separating the upper Foglia river valley and the Conca valley. The countryside around the town is a maze of valleys, rocky outcrops, farmland and woods. Among the historic and artistic treasures present in the town, the following are worthy of particular attention: Palazzo del Podestà, now the Civic Museum (with paleontologic, archaeological, medieval and renaissance exhibits), the fourteenth century Torre Civica and the parish church of San Cassiano. Of great significance is the wooden crucifix by Carlo da Camerino kept in the parish church of S. Michele Arcangelo. Today, Macerata Feltria is known throughout Italy for its modern health spa and sulphurous waters. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0722 74244.

Monte Cerignone ⬆️469 ➡️48
Standing at the foot of Monte Faggiolo in the upper Conca valley, the town consists of a riverside hamlet overlooked by its castle. The castle was built in the XII Century and subsequently remodelled in part by Francesco di Giorgio Martini towards the end of the XV Century. Worthy of mention are the churches of Santa Caterina, Santa Maria del Soccorso and the Santuario di Santa Maria in Recluso, built on the ruins of an ancient pagan temple dedicated to Juno. Each year during the first weekend of July, the townspeople dress in ancient medieval costume to celebrate “Mons Cerignonis: Fowling, Hunting, Horse Riding, Games and Market”. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0541 978552.

Montecopiolo ⬆️915 ➡️43
The mountain village of Montecopiolo lies in the regional natural park of “Parco del Sasso Simone e Simoncello” It is located at the foot of Monte Carpegna in an area of significant interest for naturalists. Worthy of note is the nearby hamlet of Villagrande (⬆️ 1000), a wellknown ski resort and delightful holiday destination. 
Information:
Tourist Information Office, tel. 0722 78130; 
Park Authority: Ente Parco Regionale del Sasso Simone e Simoncello, tel. 0722 770073.

Difficult tour. The route runs through the Upper Marecchia Valley, through the most beautiful of landscape, stretching from the mountains and Monte Carpegna to the sea. Considering the steep hills and the quality of the road surface along some stretches, it is advisable to use a cycle fitted with low ratio gears (13-28) and wheels capable of withstanding potholes and gravel. The route has already been travelled and successfully tested with racing bikes.

NOVAFELTRIA
TALAMELLO
SANT’AGATA FELTRIA
PENNABILLI

How to reach Novafeltria:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, exit Rimini Nord or Sud • Follow signs to Montefeltro • S.p. 258
From Inland: Superstrada E45 • S.p. 258

Start:    The Tour starts in the lively Piazza Vittorio Emanuele in Novafeltria. The main square is in fact an excellent starting point for the tour. In the centre of the town, there is a bar, a fountain and plenty of parking space.
km. 0      [⬆️ 272] Zero the milometer and cycle don via Garibaldi. After 200 m, there are some traffic lights,
go straight on up the hill towards Talamello. Proceed with care as your legs will still be cold!
km. 2,1  The Piazza (main square) in Talamello [⬆️ 374]: on leaving Talamello, turn left towards Perticara.
km. 3,6  At the stop sign, turn right towards Perticara (S.p.8). The road starts to climb!
km. 7,7  At the top of the climb [⬆️ 661], turn right at the crossroads for a short visit to Perticara.
km. 8      The Piazza (main square) in Perticara. After refreshments near the fountain, turn back along the same road.
km. 10,4 At the stop sign, turn right back on the S.p.8 towards S. Agata Feltria.
km. 14,1 Poggiorimini, top of the hill [⬆️ 803], take care on the downhill!
km. 16,9 Hamlet of Sant'Agata Feltria. After 300 m, take maximum care! Turn right for the centre (white “centro” sign)
and in the main square for a rest (Km 17.4). From the square, turn back along the same road and turn right at the first stop sign. Cross the square and go straight on at the stop sign, uphill towards Pennabilli. Try staying on the saddle on this hill!
km. 19,3 At the junction, turn left towards Monte Benedetto, Petrella Guidi [⬆️741].
km. 20    The Monte Benedetto sign indicates the end of the second climb [⬆️789]. Warning, uneven road!
km. 23,4 Petrella Guidi! [⬆️562].
km. 27,5 At the stop sign after the bridge, turn right towards Sansepolcro. You are now on the S.p.258.
km. 28,4 At Ponte Messa, turn left before the bridge towards Pennabilli [⬆️375].
km. 30,5 Sign indicating Pennabilli.
km. 31,3 Turn right towards the town centre “Centro”. Stop for a rest in the square. From the square, walk the bike down via Roma (left of the church). At the next junction, back in the saddle and turn right uphill towards Cantoniera.
km. 32,5 Turn left towards Scavolino [⬆️617].
km. 35,6 Sign indicating Scavolino, and a little after, the square (Km 36). Then after 100 m., turn left towards Soanne.
km. 38,3 At the stop sign, turn right and up the hill (junction with no directions).
km. 39,3 Sign indicating Soanne. Continue along the main road. Once in the square, turn right and up the hill.
km. 44,8 At the top of the hill, continue along the main road. The road runs downhill for 1 km.
km. 45,8 At the stop sign, turn left towards Madonna di Pugliano. You are now climbing the last hill.
km. 46,6 At the top of the hill you are now at “Serra San Marco” [⬆️1006]. Enjoy the view.
km. 49,3 Madonna di Pugliano (white sign).
km. 50,2 Turn right at the junction towards San Leo, still going downhill.
km. 53,7 Sign indicating San Leo. The visit to San Leo is not described in this Tour. Whoever wants to visit the town should do so from here, distance 3 km with 100 m climb. At the junction, turn right and immediately left towards Sant'Igne, Novafeltria.
km. 58,9 After the village of Piega, take care! Turn left, sign indicating Boscara on the left. After 100 m turn right towards Maioletto.
Warning, uneven road.
km. 63,3 At the stop sign, turn right towards Novafeltria. After crossing the river, turn right onto the cycle path running alongside the river Marecchia.
km. 64,5 At the end of the cycle path, turn left up the hill. After 500 m, at the stop sign, turn left and then into the square (Km 65.1).
This is the end of tour.

tourist informations

Pennabilli ⬆️630 ➡️81
The town lies at the foot of monte Carpegna and was founded in 1350 following the merging of the fortified hamlets of Penna and Billi. On entering the old centre, it is possible to admire the old gate “Porta Malatesta” (XIII century), Palazzo del Bargello (XIV century), Porta Carboni (XIV century), Porta di Borgo S.Rocco and the churchsanctuary of S. Agostino (or Madonna delle Grazie). In the main square stands the late renaissance Cathedral, the Palazzo Mediceo della Ragione and the Loggia dei Mercanti. Worthy of a visit are the Museo Diocesano, Museo di Informatica e Storia del Calcolo (Computer and Computing History Museum), Museo Mariano and Teatro “Vittoria” with its gracious tiers of box arrangement. The prestigious national Antiques Fair is held here every year in July.
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0541 928659.

Novafeltria ⬆️293 ➡️70
The town stands at the centre of the middle Marecchia river valley, and was once the site of a market place for the inhabitants of the surrounding hills, and as such was called Mercatino Marecchia up until 1941. The more important monuments overlook the main square: the seventeenth century Palazzo Municipale and the fourteenth century church of S. Marina. Other sites of interest include: the neo-Romanesque parish church of S. Martino, housing a XIV century wooden crucifix, and the Teatro Comunale (ex Teatro Sociale) with its elegant liberty style open galleries (1925). The nearby Perticara, once a flourishing sulphur mining centre, is home to the historic mining museum displaying various finds, tools and historic documents.
Information: Town Hall - Information Office, tel. 0541 920442.

Sant’Agata Feltria ⬆️607 ➡️82
For several centuries, the picturesque “Rocca” has dominated the skyline. The castle was restored in 1474 by Francesco di Giorgio Martini for the aristocrat Agostino Fregoso. At the entrance to the town stands the Convent of S. Girolamo and the Collegiate of S. Agata, rich in precious canvases and sculptures. The large seventeenth century “Palazzone”, today the local government offices, houses the “Angelo Mariani” theatre, built entirely in wood with its elegant tiers of box arrangement. An important annual event is the Precious White Truffle Fair, and other products from the land, woodland and pastures held from the second Sunday in October until the first Sunday in November.
The remains of an ancient military settlement dating back to the XIII century can still be seen in the picturesque hamlet of Petrella Guidi.
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0541 848022.

Talamello ⬆️386 ➡️73
The name derives from Thalamos (caves, dwellings). In the main square stands the seventeenth century parish church of S. Lorenzo, housing a precious fourteenth century cross. Of notable artistic interest is the rather particular cemetery “cell” decorated with frescoes by Antonio Alberti da Ferrara (1427). One of the gastronomic specialities of Talamello is the famous “formaggio di fossa” or “Ambra di Talamello”, a local caciotta cheese cured in pits dug out of the sandstone.
Information: Town Hall, tel. 0541 920036.

The itinerary takes in the entire eastern riviera of Fano and the overlooking hills.
Suitable for expert cyclists trained for 80 kilometres routes and over. A fascinating tour, plenty of ups and downs without any difficult climbs.

SANT’IPPOLITO
MONTEMAGGIORE AL METAURO
ORCIANO DI PESARO


How to reach Marotta:
From the Coast: autostrada A14, Marotta Exit • follow road signs for “mare” 
From Inland: S.p. 424 Cesanense

Start:      The tour starts from Marotta at the Piazza Roma roundabout between the main Marotta traffic lights and the sea.

Here, there is a car park, public telephone, fountain and a number of tourist establishments.
km. 0      Starting from the roundabout: take the road that runs parallel to the beach (lungomare Colombo), turning right onto the cycle track (south).
km. 3      Pass under the railway bridge at the traffic lights.
km. 3,2   At the stop sign, turn left onto the S.S. 16. After 100 m, turn right towards Mondolfo.
km. 5,3   Turn right into via Campanella (side road). After 70 m, there is a fountain on the right.
km. 7,0   At the stop sign, cross the S.S. 424. Continue straight-on towards S.Costanzo [⬆️34]. The road starts to climb gently.
km. 11,6 At the stop sign, turn right towards San Costanzo.
km. 12,7 At the stop sign, turn left towards San Costanzo (S.p. 16). Enter San Costanzo [⬆️150].
km. 13,5 The road runs alongside the town walls. Turn left towards Orciano. The road passes through a succession of villages:
Cerasa [⬆️161], Piagge and S.Giorgio di Pesaro [⬆️212]. Continue towards Orciano di Pesaro.
km. 30,5 Orciano di Pesaro [⬆️264]. Continue along the main road.
km. 31,9 At the stop sign, turn left. Branch off to the right to visit the old centre of Orciano di Pesaro.
km. 34,6 Barchi. Short distance to the old centre [⬆️319]. Follow the walls.
km. 40,4 At the crossroads, turn left for Fratterosa.
km. 41    At the crossroads, turn right for Reforzate.
km. 41,6 After Reforzate [⬆️321] there is a short but dangerous downhill stretch. At the next stop sign, turn left.
km. 43,3 S.Ippolito. On leaving the village, the road starts going down towards Fossombrone.
km. 45,8 Take maximum care. At the crossroads, turn right towards the dual carriageway (Superstrada). Bottom of the hill [⬆️103].
km. 47,3 Pian di Rose. After the village, continue straight on. Don't turn left to the industrial zone!
km. 50    Turn right towards Montemaggiore al Metauro.
km. 50,9 At the stop sign, turn left towards Calcinelli. At the next crossroads, turn right towards Montemaggiore al Metauro.
km. 52,1 At the crossroads, turn left towards Orciano di Pesaro.
km. 53,7 At the stop sign, turn left towards Montemaggiore al Metauro.
km. 56,1 At the stop sign, turn right towards Montemaggiore al Metauro. The road starts to climb.
km. 57,2 Continue straight-on towards the townhall “municipio” (the old centre of Montemaggiore is on the left). At the next stop sign, turn left [⬆️175].
km. 60,1 At the stop sign, turn left towards Fano.
km. 65,8 At the crossroads, turn left for Caminate.
km. 69,2 In Caminate, turn left at the crossroads towards Fano, downhill.
km. 73,8 At the stop sign, turn left towards Fano [⬆️30].
km. 74,4 After a bar, turn right onto the “strada comunale di Ponte Alto”. Continue along this road.
km. 77,6 Turn left before the bridge towards the S.S. 16. Turn right at the stop sign on the S.S.16.
km. 78,9 Leave the S.S.16. Turn left and take the underpass in the direction of Torrette di Fano. Go through the underpass,
then turn immediately left alongside the car park. At the stop sign, turn left towards Marotta.
km. 83,6 After a long straight stretch alongside the railway line, turn left at the stop sign towards the sea (“mare”).
At the stop sign, turn right onto the cycle track and cycle for 1 km until reaching the roundabout where the tour started (Km 84.5).

tourist information

Sant’Ippolito ⬆️246 ➡️30
Sant'Ippolito is an ancient fortified hamlet standing on a hill on the right bank of the Metaurus River. It was here where, starting from the XIV Century, expert stone-cutters began working the magnificent sandstone from the town's quarries, which had been used as far back as Roman times. The craft, however, slowly declined until it disappeared completely at the start of the nineteen hundreds. Today, with the opening of the Stone Cutting Art Museum (Museo d'Arte degli Scalpellini), this artistic craft is slowly being revived. 
Information: Museo d'Arte degli Scalpellini, tel. 0721 728144; Tourist Office, tel. 0721 728329.

Montemaggiore al Metauro ⬆️197 ➡️29
From its position on top of a wooded hill, this town of ancient origins dominates the entire right hand bank of the Metaurus River. In 1944, it was the setting for armed conflict between the retreating German troops and the advancing allies along the so-called “Gothic Line”. The panorama from the bastions of the city walls over the Metaurus valley and towards the coastal strip is breathtaking. Today, Montemaggiore is well-known for its cultivation of chrysanthemums, its precious Bianchello del Metauro white wine and its cheeses. The seventeenth century Palazzo Comunale stands in the town square. Further up stands the Torre Civica, destroyed during the last war it has since been completely rebuilt according to the original plans, and the parish church of S.Maria del Soccorso, which dates back to the fourteen hundreds. Places to visit include the Metaurus River History Museum (Museo Storico del Fiume Metauro). 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 895312.

Orciano di Pesaro ⬆️264 ➡️26
Today, the town has the appearance of a single built-up area that unites an ancient castle, with its two slender bell towers, and a more recent development. Just past the rather austere entrance to the town, dominated by the tall and dome roofed Torre Civica, stands the church of S.Maria Nuova, one of the most beautiful renaissance buildings in the Marche region. The church has a stone portal which, as tradition would have it, was designed by Raffaello Sanzio and a beautiful belltower, rebuilt in 1492 together with the church itself by Baccio Pontelli. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0721 977071.

The itinerary winds its way through the natural countryside and mountain roads of Monte Montiego and Monte Nerone. This tour is for trained cyclists, with three main climbs (max. alt. 772 m) well spread out over the 80 km route. The itinerary offers a splendid combination of art and nature.

URBANIA
PIOBBICO
MONTE MONTIEGO
E GOLA DI GORGO A CERBARA
COMPLESSO MONTUOSO DEL MONTE NERONE

How to reach Urbania:
From the Coast: Autostrada A14, Fano Exit • Superstrada direction Urbino • Fermignano • Urbania (S.P. 4)
From Inland: S.S. 73 bis (from Bocca Trabaria o from Urbino) S.P. 4 Metaurense (from Fermignano)

Start: Start from piazza S. Cristoforo in the centre of Urbania. This lively piazza provides all the logistical support required.
Urbania is also a very popular town for cyclists. There is a cycle shop nearby.
km. 0      Zero the milometer in front of “teatro Bramante” [⬆️ 280]. Cycle towards the public park continuing along the S.S. 73 bis.
km. 0,4   At the roundabout, follow the signs for Sant'Angelo in Vado.
km. 0,9   At the crossroads, turn left for Piobbico. 100 m. further on, continue straight-on towards Piobbico.
km. 4,9   The road starts to climb. After 2.3 km, the road goes through the pass [⬆️540], and then downhill towards Piobbico.
km. 14    Piobbico [⬆️334], turn right at the bridge towards Apecchio.
km. 14,5 After the tree-lined road, go straight-on at the stop sign.
km. 20,5 Turn left towards Monte Nerone. After 300 m., turn left at the junction towards Monte Nerone, Serravalle.
The road starts to climb [⬆️436].
km. 22,3 Colombara [⬆️519].
km. 27,8 The road goes through the pass [⬆️772]. Continue towards Cagli, Serravalle di Carda.
km. 28,2 Continue through Serravalle di Carda and then downhill towards Cagli.
km. 31,6 Continue on towards Cagli.
km. 36,5 Pianello [⬆️380], is at the bottom of the hill; turn right towards Cagli. After 500 m., turn left at the junction towards Cagli.
km. 43,4 Secchiano [⬆️318].
km. 44,2 At the junction, turn left towards Piobbico, Rocca Leonella. The road climbs for about 4 km [pass ⬆️570].
Warning: the road is narrow in places and very uneven!
km. 54,6 The road goes downhill for about 2 km. Warning: steep hill!
km. 56,8 Turn right at the stop sign [⬆️340] (S.p. 257). The road passes through the Gola di Gorgo (gorge), at Cerbara, formed by the faces
of Monte Nerone and Monte Montiego. Continue for a few km along a slow descent to Bellaria at km 66.9 [⬆️227].
km. 67,4 Turn right towards Urbania. The road climbs for about 2.5 km [pass ⬆️338].
km. 76,6 At the stop sign, turn left towards Urbania (S.p. 4).
km. 79,2 In Urbania, leave the S.p. 4 after the traffic lights by turning right along corso Garibaldi which leads into piazza San Cristoforo.
km. 79,5 Arrival in Piazza San Cristoforo of Urbania.



tourist information

Urbania ⬆️280 ➡️55
Located in the Upper Metaurus Valley alongside the river which flows past the ancient city walls, Urbania, which once bore the name of Casteldurante, lies in a hilly - mountainous region at the foot of Monte Montiego. The town has numerous historic and artistic monuments, including the prestigious Palazzo Ducale, which houses the town library, the historic archives, the Civic Museum and the Museum of Country life. Worth visiting are the “Chiesa dei Morti” and its mummy cemetery, the renaissance complex of the Barco, hunting lodge of the dukes of Urbino, and the nineteenth century “D. Bramante” theatre.
Famous throughout the world are the ancient ceramics of Casteldurante decorated with historical scenes, which are still being produced today thanks to the efforts of local craftsmen. The area is very popular with cyclists with a number of cycling associations and specialist cycleshops. 
Information: Tourist Office, tel. 0722 313140.

Piobbico ⬆️334 ➡️71
The town of Piobbico stands between Monte Nerone and Monte Montiego at the confluence of the rivers Biscubio and Candigliano
which flow together through the centre of the town. Surrounded by green woods, the town is a much appreciated central Apennine health resort offering sporting activities in direct contact with nature. Of great historic and artistic interest is Castello Brancaleoni which still today dominates the underlying medieval quarter. The interior of the castle is rich in late renaissance frescoes and stucco work. Worthy of a visit are the Church of Santo Stefano, the Santuario di Santa Maria in Val d'Abisso and the beautiful historic centre. 
Information: Town Hall, tel. 0722 986225.

Monte Montiego and Gola di Gorgo a Cerbara
Monte Montiego (⬆️ 975), also known as Mondiego, is bounded by the valleys of the Metaurus and Candigliano rivers. The latter river has, on its south-east side, created a gorge called the “Gola di Gorgo a Cerbara”, a site of important scenic and palaeontologic interest. The rest of the mountain is characterised by extensive wooded areas, conifer plantations and pastures near the summit. The Marche Regional Environmental and Countryside Plan (Piano Paesistico Ambientale Regionale delle Marche) of 1990 designates the Gorge as a nature reserve, which also includes the nearby Fosso dell'Eremo. Of anthropical interest are the rural agglomerates of Montiego, Castello dei Pecorari and the Chiesa dell' Orsaiola.

Monte Nerone mountain range
Monte Nerone (⬆️ 1575) has its own unique geomorphologic characteristics. The heavy calcareous stratification and its fossils, in fact, recount the long history of the Apennine Mountain. All the more typical ecosystems of the peninsula are represented on its slopes and the spectacular landscape is one to admire. Wolves still live in its woods, trout swim in its streams and the golden eagle still nests on its rocky summit. 
Information: Centro Educazione Ambientale (Environmental Education Centre), tel. 0722 985455.