From Riccione to Bologna - Coastlines and Castle Towns

After a short transfer from Bologna to the Emilia Coast, we continue our explorations by bike with a pilgrimage to Cesenatico and an optional visit to the Spazio Pantani Museum. Relive the career of il Pirata through displays of memorabilia and archive footage. Ride back along the coast and soak in the relaxed atmosphere with an evening Aperitivo.

For those preferring a coastal experience, follow the route that passes through Cattolica and the rolling hills of Monte San Bartolo all the way to Pesaro before returning along the same route. If you're looking for a bit more of a challenge, head inland for the climb up to San Marino, one of the world's oldest and smallest republics.

The route today takes in several sections of the Granfondo Nove Colli, considered the grandfather of all Granfondos with the first edition dating from 1971. The last climb of the Novi Colli or 'Nine Hills' is the first one to be tackled, the so-called 'Stelvio di Romagna' up to Sogliano di Rubicone, mercifully not nearly as tough at the original Stelvio climb. The final climb of the day is up to the charming town of Bertinoro, from where it's a mostly downhill run into Faenza.

In addition to being an epicentre for ceramics (faience is derived from the french equivalent of the town's name), Faenza also offers amazing riding on it's doorstep. The main challenge on the longer loop is the Passo dell'Eremo, a long but gradual climb taken on at about the halfway point as the route dips into Tuscany, while the shorter loop takes on the less ambitious but equally scenic Passo Beccugiano. Both ride options include a quick detour through Brisighella, a medieval town considered one of the most beautiful in the region, where you are invited to linger before pedalling the last mostly flat stretch back to Faenza.

For this final day of riding you can choose to take it easy with a start in Dozza and only a stepped climb up to Montecalderaro before Bologna, or leave it all on the road with an epic route that includes the Passo di Zattaglia and the Passo del Prugno. Reaching Bologna, a last optional loop takes on the infamous San Luca climb, a fixture of the Giro del'Emilia cycling race, and the finale of Stage 2 of the 2024 Tour de France 'Grand Depart'. Soak in the fantastic views from the Santuario della Madonna di San Luca at the top before descending back down into Bologna for a final evening in this lively and historic city.

Prolong your visit of Bologna, take in other parts of the rich Emilia-Romagna region, or head to places further afield. A la prossima!