bisignano - Cecita lake (Cupone)
The route starts in Bisignano (304 m) and climbs the upper Valle del Crati in the direction of Acri with gradients close to 13%. You pedal among cultivated hills where some historic masserie (farms) stand out. Pedalling uphill along the SS660 for about 10 km, after passing Timpone della Morte (762 m), you are now at the gates of the Sila Greca and the cycle track descends gently in the direction of Acri (688 m), the town of the Basilica of Sant'Angelo d'Acri and the MACA - Museum of Contemporary Art. From here the route continues on the Via della Sila and climbs up to an altitude of 1262 m near the Cava di Melis, where some of the highest vineyards in Europe are cultivated, now in view of the peaks of the Sila, among which Monte Pettinascura (1689 m) stands out. From this point the Ciclovia begins its descent towards Lake Cecìta, which can be glimpsed among the slender trunks of the conifers that frame the route. Skirting the lake basin (1162 m) we come to the Centro Visita Cupone (Cupone Visitor Centre), the arrival point of the stage and the ideal place to get to know the Sila National Park, where you can breathe the healthiest air in Europe.
ITINERARY AND DESTINATIONS
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Places you must visit
Sanctuary of Saint Humilis
The Sanctuary of Saint Humilis (Sant’Umile), known as “Convento la Riforma”, was founded by the Blessed Pietro Cathin, sent by St. Francis of Assisi. The portal, which dates back to the 15th century and is surmounted by the coat of arms of the Sanseverino Princes, leads us into the nave that culminates in the apse. Here we find the wood sculpture of Crucified Jesus, the work of Friar Umile of Petralia, dating back to 1637 (the year of Sant’Umile’s death).
Basilica of St. Angelo d'Acri
The construction of the basilica began in 1893, under the direction of Guido Quercioli, and it was finished in 1898. Inside there are twelve aristocratic chapels, and the central chapel has an urn made entirely of bronze and glass that has the recomposed body of the Saint. The interior of the basilica is frescoed with depictions of the miracles attributed to the Saint. The cupola is 32 meters tall with two towers and bronze copper plated bells.
CUPONE VISITOR CENTRE
The Cupone Visitor Centre was established in the spaces adjacent to the old state-owned sawmill and its buildings. Today it is an environmental education centre with nature trails, wildlife observatories, a museum, and a geological garden. The nearby picnic area along Lake Cecita, make the Visitor Centre one of the most popular areas of the Sila National Park.
climate
The continuously ascending stage touches high altitudes towards Lake Cecita, so it is preferable to avoid it in winter although the roads are still passable. From April to October the climate is temperate. The first part of the itinerary, from Bisignano to Acri, is sunny so it is advisable not to cross it during the hottest hours of the day; from Km 25 onwards, however, the route is shady and cool.
Food, drink and accommodation
Agriturismi and hotels are present along the route and offer local products and typical cuisine. For the stretch from Bisignano to Acri, it is a good idea to stock up on water, while in the part of the stage that follows, the Ciclovia passes mostly through woods and green areas where water sources are always available.
Clothing
Cycling gear varies depending on the season. In autumn, it’s important to use the right gear to keep you dry and warm on rides, as the temperatures can be very cold in the mountains; in spring, you don’t need thermal gear but don’t forget to wear the right windproof and waterproof clothing. In summer, you can wear a t-shirt and bermuda shorts, but always bring a jacket for high-altitude rides.
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It is recommended to use a bike suitable for long distances, a gravel or mountain bike, also with pedal assistance. It may be appropriate to fit off-road (or mixed) tyres in the case of gravel. Although the route is on asphalt, it is a good idea to provide a set-up that allows you to safely tackle sections in the woods that may have mud and gravel in bad weather.
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If you want to travel with a tent, you can stay in tent camping sites or campsites, agritourism and bivouac areas. To learn more please visit the Parks’ websites.
