Cycle Route of the Nera River: between Art and Unspoiled Nature

It is rare to find a happy coexistence between nature and architectural grandeur. Rarely does one feel compelled to do sport without even realizing the effort it requires. Rarely does one stand in awe before the beauty of humankind in competition amid breathtaking landscapes.

This rare harmony comes to life along the Cycle Route of the Nera River, a 28-kilometre path that crosses the green heart of Umbria. The route connects Sant’Anatolia di Narco to the splendid Marmore Waterfalls, offering a journey through unspoiled cascades, majestic forests, and unique, characterful medieval villages.

Cycle Route of the Nera River: a path suitable for families

Although its total length (28.2 km) may seem challenging, the cycle path is actually ideal for an unforgettable family experience. Especially for those who wish to introduce children to the beauty of living in harmony with nature, this is the perfect route.

Its 28 km are easily manageable, as there are no steep slopes (positive gradient: 90 m / negative: 120 m) and nearly half of the surface (12 km) is paved. For the remaining 18 km of gravel, it is advisable to use either a gravel bike or a mountain bike (MTB).

The route takes about three hours to complete, immersed in a heavenly landscape: the gorges of the Nera River, the lush Umbrian woods, and the entrance to the Marmore Waterfalls. Running parallel to the cycle path is also the famous Way of St. Francis, a spiritual and meditative route linking Assisi to Rome. Historically, numerous convents and ancient churches were built along this road to serve pilgrims. Thus, cyclists can also admire and stop in places of great historical and artistic beauty.

The tranquil ride is made even easier by the absence of major climbs, with only a few gentle hills — the longest (about 1 km) leads from the foot of Sant’Anatolia to its historic centre.

Cycle Route: in dialogue with history and art

The Cycle Route of the Nera River is not only about connecting with nature but also about engaging with the art and monuments of some of the most beautiful medieval villages in Italy.

Along the route you will find: Sant’Anatolia di Narco (starting point of the cycle path), Scheggino, Ceselli, Ferentillo, and Arrone with its Tower of the Olives, as well as the hamlet of Casteldilago.

These are authentic gems, perfect for brief stops to explore their historic centres and sample the local food and wine specialties.

Among them, the picturesque village of Ferentillo, dominated by two fortresses, hosts the fascinating Museum of the Mummies, as well as a well-known climbing wall just outside the town.

Scheggino is famous for the Festival of Women, commemorating the courageous women who defended the castle against attacks from neighbouring villages in 1522.

The final kilometres of the route wind through evocative forest sections, passing through a small tunnel before crossing a bridge that leads to the Lower Belvedere, at the foot of the majestic Marmore Waterfalls.

How to reach the Cycle Route

BY CAR: Via the A1 Autostrada del Sole (Florence–Rome). From the north, exit at Valdichiana; from the south, exit at Orte. Via the A14 motorway (Bologna–Taranto): from the north, exit at Civitanova Marche; from the south, exit at San Benedetto del Tronto. State roads: SS 3, SS 209, SS 395, SS 320, SS 396.

BY BUS: Daily connections from Rome (Tiburtina Station) and from Spoleto.

BY TRAIN: The nearest railway station is in Spoleto.

So, what are you waiting for? Leave everything behind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cycle Route of the Nera River!