Monte Portella, Monte Aquila e Vallone della Portella

Leave your car at Fonte Cerreto and take the cable car (16/17?) up to Campo Imperatore. Right away, you’ll encounter the first steep climb leading to the Duca degli Abruzzi mountain hut. On an e-bike, you can ride most of the way, except for the final stretch. After taking the obligatory photos, continue left toward Monte Portella; the high-altitude trail is mostly rideable but often very narrow and exposed—you’ll need to get off your bike for the final stretch.

Once you reach the pass, turn right toward Val Maone; just before Capanne, turn right again toward the Garibaldi Refuge, and then rejoin the saddle of Monte Aquila. Pay close attention to the slippery initial section; here, too, you’ll need to dismount several times. The final stretch is extremely steep, but if you have the leg strength and stamina, you can ride it.

Continue toward the summit of Monte Aquila; here, too, most of the route can be ridden, except for a short section, and the view is incredible. At the start of the descent, you’ll encounter a series of steps that’s very difficult to navigate by bike—the toughest part of the ride—but it’s easier with two people! Enjoy the sensational descent along the ridge, taking the necessary precautions (it’s steep and slippery)!

Once you reach Vado di Corno, turn right downhill, rejoin the paved road, and climb back up to Campo Imperatore. Then take the beautiful traverse that will lead you to Passo del Lupo—enjoy the view and take a break. The descent along the Vallone della Portella is challenging and never lets up—steep from start to finish—with the extremely slippery surface being your number one enemy. You’ll face a 1,000-meter descent over just over 5 km—don’t pick up too much speed, or you won’t be able to stop!

Treat yourself to some arrosticini when you arrive.

A sensational ride with breathtaking scenery from start to finish! This route is extremely challenging both technically and physically—don’t attempt it unless you’re in shape and technically prepared.

Alternative 1: Skip Monte Aquila; once you’ve crossed the Portella ridge, instead of descending toward Val Maone, take the scenic trail to the left that will lead you directly to Passo del Lupo.

Alternative 2: Skip the Portella Ridge; from the Duca degli Abruzzi mountain hut, turn right directly toward the saddle and summit of Monte Aquila.

Not suitable for those who suffer from vertigo; it features several exposed sections where you’ll need to carry your bike, three or four of which are quite challenging.