Giro d'Italia comes to Penne
The 101st Giro D’Italia arrived in Penne on Sunday the 13th May to host the start of stage 10 of a race that covers 3500 kilometres with an average of 170 km per day.
The town had been preparing for this momentous occasion for months and on Monday night there were bands, stalls everywhere and an evening spectacular that I attended – a gala wine tasting from 19 of the best wineries in Abruzzo. As the cyclists had a day of rest the town celebrated.
This morning the cyclists set off from the town centre to start the climb up the massive mountains that loom over this region of Italy. The climb is not however to the top, but only as far as Rigopiano - the scene of the horrific avalanche in January of last year.
From Rigopiano the cyclists will make their way north to Umbria.
It felt like the whole of Italy had turned out for the event of the year. I couldn’t help feel just a small amount of pride to see that the red jersey was worn by a Brit, Simon Yates.
Cycling and Casa del Colle
If you're reading this and want to combine a luxury holiday with road-cycling in a region that is more than one-third covered by national parks and protected areas, please get in touch to discuss how we can help with kit and travel options during your stay at Casa del Colle.
The mixture of Apennine peaks and Adriatic coast make for dramatic and timeless landscapes that - no matter your style of riding - will provide you with a truly one-of-kind experience.
We can tailor routes for you or leave you to your own tour, but either way the secure - and private - luxury villa will be waiting for you after your day's ride. Relax by the pool or let us arrange for a chef to visit the house and cook you an Abruzzo feast.
