One of the strengths, perhaps the main charm of bicycles is constituted by fatigue, by a certain effort, beyond one’s limits, which allows us to achieve unexpected goals. An effort that keeps us in shape, and that gives us a fulfilling satisfaction. However, fatigue is not for everyone. Today, we’d like to talk not only to those of you who are a bit lazy, but also all those who would like to go cycling and sightseeing; to look around, and to reach places which, on foot, would be simply out of reach. So, yes we’re talking about an electric bike, better known as an e-bike, and where to use it to discover the Sabina area. The place of departure is of course, the Residenze del Borgo di Cicignano!
A little clarification
A little caveat here is necessary: e-bikes, electric bicycles, also known as pedal-assisted bicycles, are not mopeds. Their engine operates to assist the pedalling, hence their name, and therefore it will not be possible to travel without moving a muscle! It is thus necessary to understand well the nature of the route that you are going to face, and therefore a bicycle that is normally used in the city, in the home-office itinerary, risks not being appropriate on dirt trails. As a result, an e-MTB, an electric mountain bike may be necessary. Which, if at first glance, could represent a considerable initial expense, however it can also be rented. The destinations we are talking about today can also be used with this type of vehicle.
Bicycle tourism in Sabina: ready, set, go. But easy does it…
Let’s start our virtual journey on the Sabina Bicycle Tour. Using as their slogan “bike is life“, the promoters have already been organising this loop route in April from – and up to – Passo Corese, in the province of Rieti for a few years now. The event is not competitive and is open to traditional bicycles, mountain bikes and e-bikes: the only aim is to have fun and enjoy suggestive landscapes in the Rieti countryside. The next departure?
We suggest you plan ahead for this beautiful opportunity, and, of course, to be based at our facility. A brief forty-minute drive will allow you to comfortably reach the starting grid, the start times of the participants will be staggered to avoid any kind of gatherings, in compliance with current legislation.
A little further south, in the Tiber Farfa Reserve
We are once again strolling in the Sabina area, but now we move further south, in the Tiber Farfa Regional Nature Reserve, the oldest among those established in the Lazio Region. The reserve is located around and on the banks of the Tiber River, its tributary, the Farfa stream and Lake Nazzano, completed following the creation of a dam, built in the 1950s.
This particular natural environment of great value is all the more surprising if you think of the extreme proximity to Rome, in whose Metropolitan City, in part, it rises. This enchanted location, home to many species of birds and birds of prey, amphibians and fish, but also home to lush vegetation, welcomes visitors who will be able enjoy enchanting views, on the saddle of their steed made of aluminium, rubber and metal.
The path that crosses the riparian vegetation of Meana, the ride on ecological boats that sail the waters of the river, the educational farm and the picnic tables are undoubtedly the strengths of an idea for a day immersed in Nature and silence. Here too Cicignano is no more than roughly a half-hour drive away.
Cycling in the Riserva dei Laghi Lungo and Ripasottile
This area too, on the banks of the bodies of water, is protected. To find the Riserva Laghi Lungo and Ripasottile you will need to look on the map, towards the northeast, just above Rieti, and think of a slightly more challenging journey, roughly an hour from Cicignano.
A long cycling path, about 37 kilometres, in a wetland of great naturalistic and wildlife interest, which winds up to the springs of Santa Susanna. Here, you might consider stopping over for a delicious lunch in one of the trattorias, with local specialties, such as river shrimp, or organic trout, made in tasty dishes and often flavoured with local truffle.
E-biking in the mountains
So far, we’ve mentioned a series of fairly easy routes, with negligible elevation gain, feasible for anyone. And, although the altitude could discourage many, you may wish to know that Monte Terminillo is not only ideal for skiing and snowshoeing; it also lends itself to other types of excursions. Yes, even by bike and e-bike.
You can rent both types of bikes at the Scuola Sci Terminillo, in the locality of Pian delle Valli, to discover the mountain of the Romans, riding in its thirty-kilometre loop. In spring, the view is charming to say the least, overlooking green meadows covered with colourful flowers and the clear sky opening towards the underlying Valle Santa valley.
Now, we’d like to suggest a ride for our most tenacious and sporty readers: Monte Tancia. A decidedly more perceptible difference in altitude, in a majestic and incomparable scenery offered by the Sabine Mountains. Roughly 26 kilometres, departing from Osteria Tancia.
Bike enthusiasts are constantly growing. A tangible sign of a new environmental awareness, also helped by state and local government incentives, made up of people who love nature. And that they can’t help but love our Sabina region.
Contact us for maps and e-bike renters and bike guides contacts info: we’ll be more than happy to help out as best as we can, making your stay unforgettable.
