This two-day cycling itinerary offers a unique experience among the hills of Romagna, combining history, culture and food and wine. Starting from Montiano, it passes through medieval villages such as Roncofreddo, Borghi and Sogliano al Rubicone, with stops dedicated to typical products such as Formaggio di Fossa cheese. The second day is a mix of nature and sport, with the possibility of tackling the legendary Barbotto climb.
We start from Montiano, a picturesque panoramic village overlooking the Cesena hills, already described in the 16th century as ‘the most beautiful hill in Romagna’. The village is reached by a gentle but steady climb from the valley floor, and is dominated by the Rocca Malatestiana, with its unique heart shape, offering a spectacular view from the plain to the sea.
After a short walk, we take the bike again: crossing gentle hills cultivated with orchards and wheat fields, a steady climb takes us to Roncofreddo, a village dating back to the 10th century, where we can admire the remains of the fortress, the tower, the civic gate and the ancient Malatesta fountains, and also visit the Museum of the Front and Resistance, which recounts the events of the Second World War and the local partisan struggle.
From Roncofreddo, a short diversions leads to Monteleone Castle, a beautifully preserved medieval fortification with a breathtaking view of the entire Rubicone Valley. After a stop in a trattoria or farmhouse for a typical lunch, we get back on the saddle and ride through a gentle landscape full of vineyards and olive groves before reaching Borghi, where we stop to taste the famous Bustrengh, a local sweet made of flour, honey, dried fruit and spices.
After Borghi, we pedal to Sogliano al Rubicone, a village rich in history and culture. Strolling through the historic centre, we discover some unique works such as the ‘Fountain of Butterflies’ by Tonino Guerra and the sculpture ‘The Girl with a Book’ by Ilario Fioravanti, devoting some time to visiting the Museum of Poor Art, which recounts the local tradition.
We cannot leave Sogliano without a stop at a local cheese factory to discover the production of Formaggio di Fossa DOP, a famous cheese that ages in underground pits once used to store grain, acquiring an intense and unique flavour.
For dinner we choose a traditional trattoria, where we can sample the authentic flavours of Romagna, before spending the night in a farmhouse surrounded by nature.
Trekking enthusiasts will not want to miss the excursion to the sources of the Rubicone, a historic river linked to Julius Caesar. The circular route, lasting about three and a half hours, starts from the center of Sogliano.
Our itinerary continues by bike towards Montetiffi: we face gentle ups and downs for about 8 km before coming across the feared Montetiffi climb, called "Tiffi Carogna" by local cyclists: 3 km with an average gradient of 5.8% and peaks of 16%. But the effort is rewarded by a beautiful view and an excellent piadina romagnola, to be enjoyed in a local kiosk or trattoria. Montetiffi, in fact, is also known for the artisan tradition of terracotta trays, used to cook the most iconic dish in all of Romagna.
After lunch we head towards Mercato Saraceno, known for its Sangiovese and Albana wines. Before arriving, the most daring cyclists can try the famous Salita del Barbotto, one of the toughest sections of the Granfondo Nove Colli and a real challenge for all enthusiasts: 5.5 km with an average gradient of 6.9% and sections that reach 18%.
Once we reach Mercato Saraceno, we explore its historic center, built on a medieval settlement along the left bank of the Savio River. The territory, which varies from 50 to 840 meters above sea level, is a mix of cultivated hills, woods and gullies, with trails suitable for trekking and mountain biking. Wine lovers can treat themselves to a tasting in one of the local cellars, discovering in particular the native "Famoso" grape variety for which Mercato is known to wine experts.
The last stage takes us to the top of Monte Sasso, a small rural village gathered around its church. Inside we admire a wooden crucifix from the 15th century, influenced by Tuscan Renaissance art. The churchyard is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset over the valley.
We conclude our journey with a dinner in a typical restaurant, where we can taste new dishes of the Romagna tradition.
This concludes our fascinating bike tour among the wonders of Authentic Romagna, among breathtaking views, centuries-old traditions and genuine flavors.