Basilicata Bike Trail – Coast to Coast
Destination
Duration
Group type
Travel mode
Overview
The Basilicata Bike Trail Coast to Coast offers an adventurous ride that takes you from Metaponto on the Ionian Sea, all the way to Maratea on the Tyrrhenian coast. It offers a thrilling ride in 3 variations for different bicycle types and physical prowess, each as enchanting as the next.
This coast to coast trip will have you riding mostly in the mountains of Basilicata. You will cut through the region from east to west, experiencing the gradual but substantial change of landscape.
The trail starts from Riva dei Greci campsite in Metaponto, amidst the fields and orchards of the flat Ionian coast, and crosses the lunar and desert landscapes of the gullies.
Then, in a gradual gain in altitude, crossing rivers and other natural elements, you will be catapulted into the Apennines, surrounded by oak, beech and chestnut trees, and peaks up to 2,000 metres.
Finally, you will swoop down to the sea, arriving in the astonishing setting of Lido La Secca just South Maratea, on Basilicata's steep Tyrrhenian coastline. The arrival - all the way at zero altitude - will repay all your efforts with a cold beer and a dip in the emerald waters of the Mediterranean.
The Coast to Coast trail was born as a yearly cycling event, but is now available all year long via Cervati Tours. The best seasons for the Trail are spring and autumn.
Meanwhile, the Basilicata Bike Trail events continue to promote cycling in Basilicata twice yearly. Cervati Tours is a fan and supporter of these non-profit events and invites you wholeheartedly to participate. If there is anything we can assist you with in preparing, feel free to drop us a line.
This year's spring dates are May 30th through June 2nd. For more info, see the BBT website: https://www.basilicatabiketrail.it/en/eventi/bbt-coast-to-coast-2026/
Trip included
Trip excluded
Map
Itinerary
No details found.
You will arrive at the starting point in Metaponto, a camping village where you'll have a comfortable bungalow waiting for you.
- 303 km
- 5.830 D+
- 30 percent gravel / 70 percent asphalt
A real adventure, discovering the incredible variety of landscapes in Basilicata. The track goes deep into the desert of the "calanchi" (gullies), then climbs up towards the Apennines and descends steeply to the sea in a continuous and hard succession of uphill and downhill tracks. A tough route that makes no concessions in terms of altimetry and terrain, but the final descent to Maratea is worth all the effort. In fact, the Adventure MTB track is the only one that reaches Maratea's iconic ‘statue of the redeemer’ from above.
BEWARE: This trail requires significant training and experience.
Suitable bike types: MTB, gravel with at least 48 mm tyres, agile gears and excellent riding skills
- 246 km
- 4.150 D+
- 10 percent gravel / 90 percent asphalt
This is the ‘easiest’ track in terms of mileage and altimetry, but it is every bit as authentically Basilicata, alternating between mostly "Lucanian asphalt" (less than flawless) and short bits of completely unpaved roads. It'll take you through places of untold beauty and numerous characteristic villages.
The best trail for anyone who is new to this kind of experience and wants to have a great adventure.
Suitable bike types: gravel bike
- 247 km
- 4.100 D+
- 100 percent asphalt
New this year is a 100 percent asphalt route. You'll pedal on state and provincial roads that can naturally be considered “bike paths": no stress related to any car traffic on our "Lucanian" asphalt. In fact, we challenge you to keep track of the number of cars you encounter. The asphalt itself is not always flawless, but fairly easy to navigate with gravel or touring bike tyres and even doable with a racing bike.
This trail is for those who want to experience the amazing sights of Basilicata from the comfort of the paved road.
Suitable bikes: gravel, touring, racing
After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to the trail. There are several options for transport, including Intercity trains from Maratea village on the hill and private transport that we can help you to arrange.
Whatever you choose, make sure you have a comfortable margin on any flights you may need to catch. Cutting it close is a risky thing to do in the South of Italy.
Gallery
FAQ
Why book with us?
- Personal touch
- Undertraveled Italy
- Authentic and genuine
- Local services and products
- Your travel, your way
Got a question?
We’re just one phone call or text message away. Let us know what we can do to assist you!
- +31 85 401 22 37
- info@cervatitours.com
Your travel, your way
Customers also viewed
The trail of the two primroses
Follow in the footsteps of the Palinuro Primrose, with this adventurous multi-day hike from the Monte Cervati, highest peak of the Campania region, all the way to the seaside wonder of Capo Palinuro.
Basilicata Bike Trail – Round Trip
Ride all across Basilicata on MTB, Gravel or Tour bike through amazing landscapes, from badlands to thick forests and mountain passes
Farm Life with Onofrio
Live your best Farm Life. Join in on seasonal activities, hang with the animals, learn about traditional dishes and taste local fresh food.