A family-friendly bike tour
This itinerary allows you to discover the beauty of the Abruzzo coast, weaving through breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and authentic flavors. The tour is suitable for the whole family, thanks to the option of renting various types of bicycles, including e-bikes and models equipped with child seats.
The route starts from the Ortona coast along the splendid Via Verde—a family-friendly cycle path that follows the tracks of the old railway line, offering spectacular views over the Trabocchi Coast.
Furthermore, you can count on the professional assistance of Green Road, a company dedicated to bike rentals and sustainable tour organization.
Ortona is a true gem of Abruzzo, a town that offers an irresistible mix of history, culture, and nature. To best appreciate its beauty, there is no better way than to explore it by bike, following an itinerary that touches upon the most picturesque spots in the area.
The charm of the Old Town
The tour begins in the historic center of Ortona, a fascinating labyrinth of narrow alleys, historic palaces, and churches. Strolling through the downtown streets, you can breathe in the thousands of years of history of this city, which was once a flourishing port in the region. Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint Thomas the Apostle and the Aragonese Castle, built in 1476. The Diocesan Museum, which houses works of sacred art, and the Archaeological Museum, featuring artifacts ranging from prehistory to the Middle Ages, are also well worth a visit.
A delicious stop at the port
After visiting the center, a relaxing and delicious stop at the port of Ortona is a must. Here, you can soak up the atmosphere of ancient maritime traditions and enjoy a splendid view of the Adriatic Sea. It is the perfect spot to treat yourself to an aperitif or a gelato, sitting at one of the many little venues that dot the area. The port is also the starting point for a pleasant ride along the coast, allowing you to discover the landscapes and colors of the fabulous Trabocchi Coast.
Riding toward the Trabocchi Coast
Leaving the port of Ortona behind, you continue cycling south along the coastal bike path. The route offers breathtaking views, alternating between cultivated fields and stretches of wild, rocky coastline. Along the way, you can admire the Ripari di Giobbe Regional Nature Reserve, a protected area home to rich biodiversity and spectacular cliffs plunging straight into the water.
After about 5 km, you will reach the Trabocchi Coast, one of Abruzzo’s most famous and iconic attractions. This coastal strip is dotted with trabocchi—ancient wooden structures with fishing nets stretched over the water. These trabocchi are true masterpieces of folk engineering that blend perfectly with the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere. Along the route, you can also admire the majestic Punta Penna Lighthouse, the second tallest in Italy.
During the journey, you cannot miss the chance to taste Ortona’s pesce azzurro (oily fish), a high-quality local product protected as a Slow Food Presidium. These local anchovies are caught using sustainable methods and prepared in various traditional ways: fried, marinated, baked, in sauces, or in salads. A truly traditional dish that brings out the authentic flavor of the sea!
Furthermore, the crystal-clear coastal waters are ideal for water activities suitable even for the little ones, such as SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), kayaking, and canoeing. It is a fun way for the whole family to discover hidden coves and enjoy a swim right beneath a trabocco.
Discovering Ortona's hidden treasures
The end of the tour offers thrilling emotions with a breathtaking descent toward the sea. A photo stop is planned from the heights of the Acquabella Regional Nature Reserve to admire this wild, pristine stretch of coastline.
This is an immersive itinerary that allows you to discover the most hidden natural and cultural treasures of the Abruzzo region, combining stunning landscapes, visits to prestigious historic sites, and tastings of excellent local food and wine.
An exciting journey designed to give participants an unforgettable experience, immersed in the untouched nature of the coast and the centuries-old traditions of Ortona and its surroundings. The perfect way to create unique memories to share with the whole family!
