Morano through the Parks Cycle Route

The Morano stop is one of the most evocative destinations on the 545 km of Ciclovia dei Parchi. Entering it is like taking a step into the late Middle Ages. Since 2003 it has been one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and is surrounded by romantic suggestions and an intimate atmosphere, perfect for slow and relaxing journeys against the backdrop of castles and ancient walls. It is in an optimal position to take in the Calabrian side of the Pollino massif, the peaks of Dolcedorme and Serra del Prete.

There are more and more visits from enthusiasts who use the Calabria Parks Cycle Route route which winds through the four large natural parks of the Calabria Region. Definitely a unique and unmissable way to enjoy the most fascinating villages in a healthy and eco-sustainable way. For this reason, the River Tribe base camp based in Laino Borgo (a few km away) offers two-wheel enthusiasts the possibility of renting mountain bike and E-bike to annually stimulate the social and economic growth of the territories.  From the Lombard village of Laino (280 m) you reach the town of Mormanno (830 m) and from here you continue towards Morano Calabro (680 m), the Pollino nativity scene (34 km).

For those who choose to travel in a tent there is the possibility of staying overnight in equipped campsites, bivouac areas in the woods - information relating to the bivouac areas of the parks is available on the websites of the individual institutions - or to pitch your tent inside the farmhouses, obviously after checking with the owners.

The e-bike river tribe are having their moment of glory, and they deserve it! The fundamental feature that differentiates them from a moped or an electric bicycle is the fact that the motor of the e-bike is activated exclusively when pedaling, providing "help" to the cyclist and consequently making it much less tiring to use than a normal bike.

Perfect for keeping fit and discovering the Pollino Park (the largest in Italy). And if after a long ride you want to taste one of the local dishes, the Felciata (in Moranese dialect 'a filicèta) linked to the sheep farming of the area. Cheese produced with goat's milk, when the pastures give the milk the best aromas, scents and flavours, Felciata takes its name from the ferns from which it receives its extraordinary aroma and is consumed freshly made, even hot.

A land of incredible natural beauty, Calabria is a treasure chest that houses splendid architecture and truly enchanting villages. The mountainous hinterland of this region hides small villages perched on the mountains. Some challenge the process of rock erosion and the force of gravity, giving landscapes worthy of an evergreen nativity scene, others built in the presence of unforgettable natural landscapes capable of keeping ancient traditions intact.

Morano Calabro contains both morphological characteristics. Certainly the first thing that strikes the eye of this fairy-tale agglomeration are the typical houses which, if seen from below, all seem to be joined together. According to some theories, the etymology of the name Morano comes from the Greek verb "to put together".

In fact, both the white and colored houses fall like a waterfall along the side of a cone-shaped hill that dominates the landscape, while on the top stands the inevitable castle. From its imposing ruins of Norman origin, rebuilt in the sixteenth century and belonging to the Sanseverino family, it is possible to enjoy a suggestive panorama. Aggregated into three districts, around the castle and the most important churches, the town of Morano Calabro develops towards the valley, within a system of city walls.

A labyrinth of alleys and stairways, partly dug into the rock, which climb up and open in front of the churches and stately buildings, therefore it is easy to come across the countless churches, among the most interesting to visit is certainly the church of San Pietro e Paolo, which dates back to the year one thousand with the medieval bell tower; in the main square stands the Collegiate Church of S. Maria Maddalena, from the Byzantine era.

Km of asphalt and dirt roads, cycle paths and newly created paths, to enjoy uncontaminated nature and dreamlike views, many of which are inaccessible by car or other vehicles.

The opening of new cycle paths and cycle paths in our area is encouraging more and more people to cycle tourism. A way to experience the landscape in direct contact with nature, with relaxed rhythms and in full respect of the environment.