Pine Forest at the Mouth of the Basento

Embark on the Pisticci and Ionian Coast Tour, a challenging touring bicycle route that takes you from the historic town center of Pisticci, nestled like a natural amphitheater in the hills, all the way down to the clear waters of the Ionian Sea. This difficult journey covers 43.0 miles (69.3 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2257 feet (688 metres). You will experience panoramic views of the sea and charming villages in the Matera province as you cycle. The route is estimated to take around 4 hours and 26 minutes to complete, demanding very good fitness from riders.

Before you set out, be aware that this is classified as a hard bike ride, requiring very good fitness. The starting point for this loop is Pisticci, where you can generally find parking for your vehicle. While a good portion of the route is paved, prepare yourself for some unpaved and challenging segments. On these sections, you might even need to dismount and push your bike for a short distance. Plan your visit accordingly to ensure you have enough daylight and energy for the entire duration.

What makes this tour particularly unique are the striking