Apennines, Italy - Capistrello to Campo Staffi. And it's all uphill : Photo Albums : MBPost

Arriving

3,650ft, 1,113m of ascent, 22km

Capistrello

This is yet another wonderful and fulfilling ride that the ever stunning Region of Abruzzo has to offer, and you will be captivated by. The altitude is somewhat less than the aforementioned ride in Campo Imperatore, consequently the ride is semi-forested on the mountainsides, and the summer climate very hot, though snowbound in the wintertime. The route at first appears less grandeur than from Fonte Ceritto, but this all changes when you hit the final miles. Quite literally, your jaw will drop in awe, and if you have not already dropped from the effort. So be prepared for a long and continuous haul, as this route gives little respite. Only the dramatic scenery will distract you from the effort required. Expect a 1.5 to 2hr ascent. Carry 2L of water.
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/4319961

Capistrello is a picturesque town of open avenues and tightly clustered, hilly streets. And yet another excuse to stop for the great Italian coffee. Again, you'll need a double-shot. Though refrain from taking a big meal before starting. Have that on the return. If arriving by car, you can choose to start from Capistrello (667m) itself, or from the hillside at the start of climb. Good roadside parking there.

On the Hill

Pescocanale

Park up along the roadside

Trees line the roadside where, in Springtime, laburnum trees flower their deep yellow in abundance. At first the view is open, and the view back to Capistrello and over to the village of Pescocanale, is already stunning.

The road climbs steadily for 2km leading into the first hairpin, then heads right and onward for a straight, open section of 4 to 5km. Round the next hairpin for another spectacular 4km as the forestry builds and the roadside becomes mountainous and the route passes through wonderful glades.

Next, weave up and around and through great picnic spots and then comes the first big reward as the view opens out, revealing a series of dramatic, towering cliff faces, where boulder protection is served by huge cable nets bolted into the intimidating formations. http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/21180779.jpg

Take a break

Take a break at the awesome viewpoint and then on past the cliffs and a steady rise, revealing the mighty drop to Capistrello, once more. Continue on, winding steadily up and around to reach Serra Sant' Antonio
http://ipicture.mobi/?c=it&UF=-128675&UN=-196312&DG=PASS
Monti Simbruini-Monte Viglio dal Cotento are now visible, and tempt you to hike to their summits. It is another tremendous view from them.

Perhaps you are now a little fatigued from the haul, though unless you have planned, don't be temped to descend to the Valle Granara to Filettino,
http://www.comunefilettino.it/filettino.jpg
because for a day ride you might not make it back up, as the drop is nearly 2,000ft, 600m and Filettino is tightly nestled at the base of the mountain. Though a visit is a must, I'm sure.

Moving on

Continue on the remaining 4km to arrive at the somewhat estranged resort of Campo Staffi (1,780m), which at first glance appears like a ghost town, for it is primarily a winter resort. The openness can give rise to sweeping winds and the mostly shuttered houses could lead you to imagine that the whole townspeople are peering at you, whereas, few townsfolk exist. Still, riding up through the centre of the windswept street, I couldn't help wondering that Clint Eastwood or a bunch of Bandidos might be standing at the end of the road awaiting. So, disappear into the saloon for that well earned drink and feel welcomed. http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/4073/renga4ap6.jpg. Winter.
http://www.fabriziolombardi.altervista.org/_altervista_ht/2005/Campo%20Staffi.jpg

Trek the Mountain

Atop Monti Simbruini

The peak of Monti Simbruini-Monte Viglio dal Cotento, can be hiked in 1 to 2 hours. Where you will be rewarded with panoramic views.

Monte Simbruini in Winter
http://www.fotolarossa.it/Campo%20Staffi1%20(FR).jpg

Descent - Showtime-Thrilltime

The descent takes 30 minutes, even without pedalling! Take great care, especially through the upper series of snaking bends back through the glades, and on the blind corners, as rules of the road are largely ignored. Well, after all, it is Italy . Enjoy the tremendous thrill and regain your composure at the bottom. Now it's time for a mountain of pasta and a glass of red wine!

Images