Bike
Itineraries
Cattolica - riviera romagnola

Bike Tour Routes

The best routes around Cattolica

Cycling between the sea and the villages
Romagna has always been a land of cycling. At EM | Hotel & Spa in Cattolica, this is something we know well: we’re experts in cycling tourism and organize guided tours for groups of cyclists. Our guides will take you through the hills and to hidden viewpoints overlooking the sea, providing assistance and sharing their in-depth knowledge of the area. 
On this page, we’ve selected our top recommendations for the best routes starting and ending in Cattolica, designed for those who love road cycling, mountain biking on dirt trails, gravel adventures, or the pleasure of e-bike riding. 
Our routes will take you on a journey to discover the poetic beauty of the Panoramica del San Bartolo, overlooking the sea, and the peacefulness of the Conca bike path, as you make your way up to timeless villages: the romantic Gradara, Valentino Rossi’s hometown of Tavullia, and the imposing fortresses of Montefiore, Mondaino, and Saludecio.
You’ll cycle through the Sangiovese hills until you catch sight of Monte Carpegna’s silhouette. These climbs are exactly where Marco Pantani built his successes, because, as he used to say, “Carpegna is enough for me. ” Even today, it remains an invitation to push your limits here, where the legend of Il Pirata was born.

The best routes

Difficulty
Km
m
Road
Between Sky and Sea
Difficulty
Hard
Km
93.1
m
1364
Between Sky and Sea
Montescudo - Monte Altavelio - Mondaino - Saludecio
A route following the ridges that divide Romagna and the Marche. Leaving the coast behind, the road heads towards the Montescudo hinterland, making its way through rolling hills that stretch as far as Monte Altavelio. From here, the view is spectacular: the landscape looks like a painting, with the silhouette of Monte Nerone forming a backdrop to the Montefeltro Valley.

The return route passes by the medieval walls of Mondaino and Saludecio, following scenic roads that gently wind down toward the Adriatic Sea. With a total elevation gain of 1,364 meters, this route requires considerable training, but it rewards the effort with breathtaking views. Over 90 km of paved roads winding through villages and mountain peaks, allowing you to discover the region’s most authentic spirit.
Technical details
  • Type: Road
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Length: 93.1 km
  • Elevation gain: 1,364 meters
Road
The Flavors Route
Difficulty
Hard
Km
115.2
m
2084
The Flavors Route
Gradara - Mombaroccio - Cartoceto - Saltara - Montefelcino - Tavullia
Amid the hills of Montefeltro, nestled between Romagna and the Marche, lies a valley rich in scenic beauty and equally rich in culinary delights. The Flavors Route connects the village of Mombaroccio to Saltara, winding its way through wheat fields and centuries-old olive groves that yield a prized olive oil: the Cartoceto DOP.

Would you like to daydream a little? Just stop by the Bottega del Borgo in Mombaroccio. Here you’ll find the authentic, simple flavors of days gone by. There are plenty of dishes worth mentioning, especially the delicious cyclist’s tart, which is both energizing and healthy. At 115 km long and with an elevation gain of over 2,000 meters, it's a demanding challenge, but one that rewards every meter of ascent with panoramic views and authentic flavors.
Technical details
  • Type: Road
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Length: 115.2 km
  • Elevation gain: 2,084 meters
Road
Between Nature and History
Difficulty
Hard
Km
86.5
m
1355
Between Nature and History
Gradara - Fano - Pesaro - Monte San Bartolo Natural Park
Exploring the region on two wheels is the best way to discover places rich in charm and steeped in history. The route begins with the stunning San Bartolo Park: a scenic road suspended between the green of the promontory and the blue of the sea.

After passing through Pesaro, the route continues toward Fano, winding through ancient Roman walls and remnants of a glorious past. The return leg ventures away from the coast and climbs toward the village of Gradara, the setting for legendary feats and tales. A one-of-a-kind experience that allows you to soak up the beauty of this region, cycling past medieval castles and breathtaking views overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Technical details
  • Type: Road
  • Difficulty: Medium / Challenging
  • Length: 86.5 km
  • Elevation gain: 1,355 meters
Road
The Pirate's Sky
Difficulty
Hard
Km
134.1
m
2101
The Pirate's Sky
Morciano – Monte Cerignone – Carpegna – Macerata Feltria – Tavullia
If you're looking for a real challenge: the climb of legend. Making it up Monte Carpegna isn't just a physical test, but a tribute to Marco Pantani, who built his greatest successes on these switchbacks. It's a one-of-a-kind feeling you get along the way, caught between the wild beauty of the Sasso Simone and Simoncello Park and the memory of the “Pirate's” feats.

My advice is to approach the climb with respect: the steep gradients are unforgiving and require a steady pace. After cresting the hill and reaching the “heavens” of the mountain, the long descent winds through ancient villages and quiet valleys, passing through Valentino Rossi’s hometown of Tavullia, before returning to the coast. This route is a true test of your heart and legs, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on every cyclist.
Technical details
  • Type: Road
  • Difficulty: Hard / Extreme
  • Length: 134.1 km
  • Elevation gain: 2,101 meters
Road
Into Foreign Lands
Difficulty
Hard
Km
105.5
m
2096
Into Foreign Lands
Coriano – San Marino – Sassofeltrio – Montefiore Conca – Morciano
The route crosses the border of the Republic of San Marino to begin the climb up Monte Titano, the heart of the world’s oldest republic. An climb suspended between history and the sky, with a view stretching from the Adriatic coast to the peaks of Montefeltro.

The ever-changing colors of the landscape and the panoramic view of the Val Marecchia and Montefeltro regions are the reward for the effort of the climb. After reaching the summit of Monte Titano, the route crosses the ridges of Sassofeltrio and, once past the slopes of Monte Osteriaccia, heads toward the unmistakable silhouette of the Rocca di Montefiore Conca. Last one there buys the coffee.
Technical details
  • Type: Road
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Length: 105.5 km
  • Elevation gain: 2,096 meters
Road
Granfondo Squali
Difficulty
Hard
Km
143.5
m
2072
Granfondo squali
Gradara – Monte Altavelio – Mondaino – Tavullia – Panoramica San Bartolo
The Granfondo Squali route was created as one of the Adriatic coast’s most iconic cycling challenges, an event that draws thousands of cycling enthusiasts to Cattolica every May. With its considerable elevation gain, it certainly puts your legs to the test, but the route is at its best when ridden without the pressure of racing, taking the time to experience the authentic roads, landscapes and local flavours along the way.

The route heads inland for the climb up Monte Altavelio, the highest and most demanding point of the ride, before passing through medieval villages such as Mondaino, where the beauty of the landscape invites you to slow down and take it all in. After Tavullia, the grand finale unfolds along the Panoramic Road of Monte San Bartolo: a succession of bends high above the sea, where all that effort is rewarded with spectacular scenery. It’s a natural backdrop made for unforgettable photos, best enjoyed at your own pace.
Technical details
  • Type: Road
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Length: 143.5 km
  • Elevation gain: 2,072 meters
Road
The Renaissance Loop
Difficulty
Hard
Km
116.6
m
2312
The Renaissance Loop
Saludecio – Mondaino – Sassocorvaro – Urbino – Tavullia
This itinerary allows you to truly dive into the medieval and Renaissance heritage of the region between Romagna and the Marche. It starts in the authentic villages of Saludecio and Mondaino, where a stop at Porta di Sotto to sample the traditional “formaggio di fossa” is the perfect prelude before venturing into the Montefeltro.

The road continues toward Sassocorvaro, running along the shores of Lake Mercatale. From here, you can admire the imposing Rocca Ubaldinesca, which towers over the valley and is known for having safeguarded masterpieces of Italian art during World War II. Leaving the lake behind, the road climbs steeply toward Urbino, the “ideal city” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venturing into the labyrinth of narrow streets in the birthplace of Raffaello Sanzio takes you straight into a timeless world, ruled by the architectural splendor of the Ducal Palace. A journey through the finest treasures of a unique region.
Technical details
  • Type: Road
  • Difficulty: Very Hard
  • Length: 116.6 km
  • Elevation gain: 2,312 meters
Gravel
Along the Conca River
Difficulty
Hard
Km
48.5
m
511
Along the Conca River
Cattolica – San Giovanni in Marignano – Morciano – Gradara
This route mainly follows the course of the Conca River, heading up the valley along the riverbanks on a dirt path. The route then leaves the plain to wind through the hills around Gradara, alternating between dirt roads and narrower paths through the vegetation.

You may have to push your bike in some parts of the tour. It’s a quick, yet challenging ride that connects the coast with the Gradara hinterland while avoiding road traffic almost entirely.
Technical details
  • Type: Gravel
  • Difficulty:Hard
  • Length: 48.5 km
  • Elevation gain: 511 meters
Gravel
Between Tavullia and Gradara
Difficulty
Hard
Km
51.8
m
815
Between Tavullia and Gradara
Cattolica – San Giovanni in Marignano – Tavullia – Gradara
This loop runs through the hills along the border between Romagna and the Marche region, passing through the towns of Tavullia and Gradara. It takes you along a mix of paved roads, dirt roads, and trails through the fields.

This route explores the countryside away from traffic, following the ridges that overlook the coast. In some places, the path may be unpaved or difficult to ride on, requiring you to push your bike.
Technical details
  • Type: Gravel
  • Difficulty:Hard
  • Length: 51.8 km
  • Elevation gain: 815 meters
Gravel
Between the Conca and Foglia Valleys
Difficulty
Hard
Km
85.1
m
1431
Between the Conca and Foglia Valleys
Coriano – San Clemente – Montefiore Conca – Mondaino – Tavullia
This route winds through the heart of the Malatesta territories, passing through the fortified villages that overlook the Conca and Foglia valleys. The route follows a mix of surfaces, with paved secondary roads alternating with unpaved roads and trails that wind through the hills.

The loop touches history-steeped villages such as Montefiore Conca, with its imposing fortress, and continues on toward Mondaino and Tavullia. It is a wide-ranging route, designed for those who want to discover the most authentic side of the hinterland between Romagna and the Marche. The surfaces are mostly paved, with sections of dirt road that allow you to cycle while immersed in nature and the silence of the hilly landscape.
Technical details
  • Type: Gravel
  • Difficulty:Hard
  • Length: 85.1 km
  • Elevation gain: 1,431 meters
Gravel
Between San Clemente and Saludecio
Difficulty
Hard
Km
71.5
m
904
Between San Clemente and Saludecio
Misano Monte – San Clemente – Saludecio – Tavullia
This route follows the roads that connect the hills of Romagna to those of the Marche region. The trail runs on a mix of surfaces, from asphalt on secondary roads to dirt roads, winding through the open countryside between San Clemente and Saludecio.

The route then heads toward the Tavullia area, following the ridges that offer a constant view of the coast. It's a tour that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the peace and quiet of the countryside, far from the main roads. In some parts of the route, you may need to get off your bike and push, depending on the terrain. A wide-ranging experience that lets you discover the region's lesser-known corners.
Technical details
  • Type: Gravel
  • Difficulty:Hard
  • Length: 71.5 km
  • Elevation gain: 904 meters
MTB
Onferno Nature Reserve
Difficulty
Hard
Km
82.7
m
1614
Onferno Nature Reserve
Cattolica – Morciano – Onferno Nature Reserve – Gradara
This mountain bike route ventures deep into the hinterland, reaching the Onferno Nature Reserve. It’s a journey in search of silence, winding through secluded hills and ancient villages off the beaten path.

The trail follows the Conca Valley upstream before climbing toward the Onferno Caves, a protected area of great natural beauty. The return route offers a picturesque walk past Gradara Castle, providing a unique view of the medieval walls before the final descent. A sweeping tour that combines the charm of untamed nature with the history of some of Italy’s most beautiful villages.
Technical details
  • Type: MTB
  • Difficulty:Hard
  • Length: 82.7 km
  • Elevation gain: 1,614 meters
MTB
The Almond Tree Route
Difficulty
Medium
Km
47.2
m
571
The Almond Tree Route
Cattolica – San Giovanni in Marignano – Tavullia – Gradara
This route winds along the border between Emilia-Romagna and Marche, passing through a hilly landscape dotted with historic villages and farmland. It follows a mix of paved and unpaved sections, staying almost entirely on secondary roads with little traffic.

The loop passes through scenic spots such as the Almond Tree Route, where almond trees line the road in late winter and early spring, and the natural terrace of Tavullia. The route then continues toward the Gradara area, allowing you to admire the castle from the surrounding trails before heading back toward the coast. It is a route that follows the ridges between the Conca and Foglia valleys, offering constant views of the sea and the inland countryside.
Technical details
  • Type: MTB
  • Difficulty:Medium
  • Length: 47.2 km
  • Elevation gain: 571 meters
MTB
Towards Montefiore Castle
Difficulty
Hard
Km
68.4
m
974
Towards Montefiore Castle
Cattolica – Morciano – Montefiore Conca
This route follows the unpaved cycle path along the Conca River, connecting the coast directly with the surrounding countryside. It takes you through the natural landscape of the valley all the way to the foot of the hilltop village of Montefiore Conca.

From the flat river valley, the route begins to climb towards the Rocca Malatestiana in Montefiore. Built in pale stone, this impressive fortress overlooks the entire valley from its green hilltop setting, offering sweeping views from the Apennines all the way to the Adriatic coast. The route alternates between gravel roads and trails, with some challenging gradients on the climb towards the castle. On the way back, you’ll ride along scenic hilltop ridges with panoramic views of the sea.
Technical details
  • Type: MTB
  • Difficulty:Hard
  • Length: 68.4 km
  • Elevation gain: 974 meters
MTB
Malatesta Horizons
Difficulty
Medium
Km
44
m
661
Malatesta Horizons
Cattolica – San Giovanni in Marignano – Tavullia – Gradara
The route leaves the coastal traffic behind to delve into the peaceful hills on the Romagna-Marche border. The route follows trails and back roads that connect historic villages preserved over time.

The route touches San Giovanni in Marignano, climbs up to the panoramic terrace in Tavullia, and reaches the medieval walls of Gradara. The ridgeline trails allow you to cycle away from the noise, offering sweeping views of the farmland and the sea. It’s an accessible ride that showcases the villages perched on the area’s hilltops.
Technical details
  • Type: MTB
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Length: 44 km
  • Elevation gain: 661 meters
E-Bike
The Sangiovese Route
Difficulty
Medium
Km
59.9
m
697
The Sangiovese Route
Cattolica - San Clemente - San Savino - Passano - Montescudo
This itinerary winds through the heart of Romagna’s wine-producing region, climbing the hills to the village of Montescudo. The route winds through the vineyards of San Clemente, an area renowned for its historic wineries and the quality of its Sangiovese.

Along the way, you’ll come across sites of great historical and spiritual significance: the elegant Sanctuary of Valliano, nestled in silence, and the Church of Peace in Trarivi, which bears the marks of World War II and houses a dedicated museum. The climb continues along scenic ridges to Montescudo, offering views that stretch from the Valconca to the coast. This tour combines the rural culture of Romagna with the region’s historical heritage.
Technical details
  • Type: E-bike
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Length: 59.9 km
  • Elevation gain: 697 meters
E-Bike
Along the Adriatic
Difficulty
Easy
Km
46.7
m
683
Along the Adriatic
Cattolica – Gabicce Monte – Panoramica del San Bartolo - Pesaro – Gradara
It’s not easy to find a more scenic road than the Panoramica del San Bartolo: a natural balcony running along the ridge of the cliffs, suspended between the green of the Mediterranean scrub and the blue of the sea. It’s a route where the view sweeps freely over the coast, guiding you along gentle slopes all the way to the outskirts of Pesaro.

From the city, the route then heads inland toward Gradara, the medieval village that overlooks the valley. Here, the history of the Malatesta family intertwines with a Dante-esque atmosphere: Gradara Castle was, in fact, the setting for the forbidden love between Paolo and Francesca, as recounted in the Divine Comedy.  This itinerary brings together the very best of the region: wild nature, sea views, and the timeless charm of one of Italy’s most beautiful villages.
Technical details
  • Type: E-bike
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 46.7 km
  • Elevation gain: 683 meters
E-Bike
In the Footsteps of the Medieval Lords
Difficulty
Medium
Km
47.7
m
667
In the Footsteps of the Medieval Lords
Cattolica – Saludecio – Mondaino – Tavullia
There is an ancient force that runs along the ridges of the Valconca, shaped by centuries of conflict between the Malatesta and Montefeltro families. This itinerary is a short time travel through the fortified villages that once marked the border between two worlds. As you cycle inland, you will notice the elegant walls of Saludecio and Mondaino, which tell the story of when these villages stood as sentinels overlooking the valley. They were so strategically important that they were fiercely contested by the great lords of the era.

However, these villages’ charm can also be tasted at the table: a stop in Mondaino is the perfect opportunity to discover the famous formaggio di fossa, a delicacy produced right in the caves dug beneath the village.
Technical details
  • Type: E-bike
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Length: 47.7 km
  • Elevation gain: 667 meters
E-Bike
The Conca Cycle Path
Difficulty
Hard
Km
40.8
m
457
The Conca Cycle Path
Cattolica – San Giovanni in Marignano – Morciano – Montefiore Conca
Leave the bustle of the coast behind and follow the Conca Cycle Route into the peaceful countryside. This easy gravel trail winds its way upstream through lush scenery to the Conca Urban Park in Morciano di Romagna, where the lake is the perfect spot to take a break before the route changes pace.

From here, the climbing begins. A six-kilometer ascent leads to the impressive Rocca di Montefiore Conca, a medieval fortress standing guard over the valley. Its history comes with a touch of mystery, thanks to the legend of Costanza Malatesta and Ormanno, two lovers said to have been killed for their forbidden love. According to local legend, their spirits still wander within the castle walls. After taking in one of the most spectacular views in Romagna, the route heads back downhill along the opposite side of the river.
Technical details
  • Type: E-bike
  • Difficulty: Hard (due to the climb to the Rocca)
  • Length: 40.8 km
  • Elevation gain: 457 meters