Cycling in the Italian Mountains in 2012

[ededwards]

With a friend I'm looking on visiting Italy in mid August/mid September 2012 to tackle some of the classic Giro climbs - retro, naturally (although with a compact chainset - I'm not mad!).

I'm not sure if this is the best place to post but:

- interested in the experience of anyone who has been there; are there some must do rides/climbs?

- where is a good base? Any particular accommodation recommendations?

- we're thinking 7 to 10 days. Is August/September a good time of year?

Any advice/suggestions, including things we may overlook, would be very much appreciated.


PS This may well be preparation for l'eroica 2012 as I really fancy doing it again.

 

[monty dog]

Ed,

My mate Karl rode the Corsa Rosa this year - he'd be able to give a ho-down on all the climbs, but when I talk to him I think the whole thing blended into 3 weeks of riding, eating, massages and sleep...

I'm certainly thinking about L'eroica again for 2012 - was too slow to get an entry in this year.

 

[ededwards]

Yep, l'eroica is on the 'must' list for next year and if 2011 is anything to go by then need to be sharpish off the black with an entry - quite a contrast from 2010.

 

[pigman]

some inspiration perhaps

http://49giro.blogspot.com/2009/06/part ... feats.html

 

[ededwards]

some inspiration perhaps

http://49giro.blogspot.com/2009/06/part ... feats.html

Top stuff!

Any local/Italian suggestions for routes/places to stay?

 

[bm0p700f]

Calibria is a cheap place to stay and very Scenic. My parents have a holiday house in Scalea and the area is lovely. Of the coast road there miles of mountain roads into and around the Pollino National park with the possibly of mega miles of serious climbing. Mountain towns are cheap too 1) accommodation is cheaper 2) beer is cheaper 3) food is cheaper.

Example the ride from Scalea to Verbicaro is only 13km but is involves a 580m climb straight up so coming back down is alot fun. The hills behind are even taller with 2000m peaks not far away. Italian road maps though are shit. Many of the minor roads are simply not put on roads maps so you will need to get to know the area. Also use wide tyres with strong side walls, Italian roads are even worse than our own country roads.

Riding in Italy is good experience.