Cinque Terre Passion Ride: Two Routes Between Sea, Ridges, and Stunning Views

Discover the short and long routes of the May 9–10 event in La Spezia.

The Cinque Terre Passion Ride presents its two official routes, designed to offer all participants an unforgettable cycling experience through the sea, hills, and historic villages.

The Short Route represents the essence of the Cinque Terre in an intense loop.
The ride starts in La Spezia, with a gradual approach towards Marinasco and Foce, where the road begins to climb and the view opens up over the Gulf. After this first section, the route enters the inland area towards Ricco del Golfo di Spezia, along quiet roads and stretches ideal for finding your own rhythm.
The climb to Pizzo Cuchelone represents the heart of the route: steady but challenging, requiring careful management of effort. After reaching the highest point, the road leads to Pignone, offering a smoother section to recover before heading back towards the coast. From here, the route continues directly to Monterosso, where the sea suddenly reappears and the most iconic section of the ride begins. The panoramic road crosses all the Cinque Terre – Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – with curves suspended over the sea, terraced vineyards, and breathtaking views. The final climb to Monte della Madonna closes the route before returning to La Spezia.

The long route also starts from La Spezia and follows the short route for its initial section, up to the fork towards Levanto. Here, the long descent to the sea is one of the most rewarding moments: fast, scenic, and exhilarating. The route then heads back towards La Spezia, tackling the iconic coastal section towards Monterosso, passing through Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with poetic views, terraced vineyards, and the scent of the sea always nearby.

Both routes include a timed section from Pignone to Termine of approximately 4 km, allowing the most competitive participants to test their skills on an intense and panoramic stretch.

Registration for the Cinque Terre Passion Ride is now officially open and offers the perfect opportunity to secure a spot in one of the most spectacular cycling events of the season. Whether you choose the short route – ideal for those who want to enjoy spectacular scenery and rewarding climbs – or the longer itinerary – designed for those seeking a greater challenge – the event promises a truly unique experience for all participants.