2022 Calabria - 9 days in the Italian south

750 km, 13700 m of climbs.
The ride through southern Italy was a spectacular mix of ancient sites, mountain roads, dramatic landscapes, and plenty of suffering. After visiting magnificent Paestum, I climbed into Cilento, where the roads quickly became empty and beautifully remote. The days were full of steep climbs, incredible views, fun descents, and picturesque towns like Pisciotta. There was so much beauty that stopping for photos was irresistible—even if it meant arriving late.

Further south, the ride became increasingly wild and unpredictable. I cycled through mountain villages, forests, lakes, snow and deserted roads, often struggling to find food because everything was closed in the low season. Temperatures swung from 26°C during the day to 4°C at night, and one night I even arrived at the hotel after 1.5 hours of cycling in complete darkness. Rain, steep climbs and thick fog added to the adventure, but the rewards were spectacular: empty roads, sea and mountain views, and unforgettable descents.

The journey ended dramatically in Naples. After more than a week of almost complete solitude in nature, cycling through the city's insane traffic was a shock. Naples was as energetic and chaotic as expected—an entirely different experience from the quiet mountains and villages of the previous days.