About the route

Our Ride to Monte Cassino begins in the vibrant city of Naples, a bustling and energetic starting point that offers an exciting—and sometimes challenging—introduction to the journey ahead. As one of Italy’s busiest urban areas, riders should be prepared for heavier traffic and remain particularly cautious as we navigate our way out of the city.

Once beyond Naples, the atmosphere transforms. The route opens into the stunning landscapes of rural Italy, where quiet roads wind through rolling hills, charming villages, and dramatic mountain scenery. This shift from urban buzz to peaceful countryside is one of the ride’s most rewarding contrasts.

Across all three days, riders will encounter a range of inclines. While each day includes some climbing, the most demanding ascent comes on Day 2, when we take on the iconic climb to the summit of Monte Cassino Abbey. This challenging section is steep but incredibly memorable, offering a huge sense of achievement and panoramic views from one of Italy’s most historic landmarks.

Throughout the journey, riders can expect a blend of cultural, physical challenge, and breathtaking scenery—an unforgettable cycling adventure from start to finish.


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itinerary

1st October

Touch down in Italy and meet your transfer at the airport. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore the vibrant streets of Naples, soak in its historic charm, or enjoy a coffee overlooking the bay. In the evening, we’ll come together for a welcome dinner and safety briefing, giving you the chance to meet your fellow riders and prepare for the adventure ahead.

2nd October - 76.9 miles

We depart Naples and start our inspiring ride toward Monte Cassino. Our first stop is Grazzanise, where we’ll pause to hear the story of the crossing of the Volturno River. We then continue on to Minturno War Cemetery, where we’ll take time for reflection and enjoy a well‑earned lunch.

Afterwards, we cycle past the impressive Vespasian’s Aqueduct before making the final stretch toward our day‑one finish line: our hotel at Monte Cassino. Throughout the day, you’ll experience rolling countryside, historic landmarks, and powerful moments of remembrance as we journey toward one of the most symbolic sites of the Second World War.

3rd October - 52.5 miles

Today we take on a scenic circular route around Monte Cassino, exploring some of the most significant sites of the Italian campaign. Our first stops include the German War Graves and the Rapido River crossing, where our expert military historians will share the powerful stories connected to these locations.

We then continue to an authentic Italian pizzeria for a well‑earned lunch, before enjoying around 20 miles of steady, easier riding as we approach the challenge of the afternoon: the iconic climb up to Monte Cassino Abbey. This ascent offers both a physical test and unforgettable views, with opportunities to pause and take in the sweeping landscape overlooking the Polish War Cemetery.

After visiting the Abbey and reflecting on its historical significance, we descend back to our hotel in Monte Cassino to relax and enjoy dinner as a group.

4th October - 77.3 miles

We begin the final day with a short ride from the hotel to the Cassino Commonwealth Cemetery, taking time for reflection before heading south toward Naples. Our first rest stop comes just before Teano at the 26‑mile mark, offering a chance to refuel before continuing through picturesque countryside and historic terrain.

At 48 miles, we reach the magnificent Royal Palace of Caserta, where we’ll pause for lunch and a fascinating history stop. Participants will also have the opportunity to enter the palace grounds and explore this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From Caserta, we continue our journey back toward Naples, enjoying fresh scenery and new challenges as we complete the final stretch of this extraordinary route. The ride concludes at our hotel, the Grand Hotel Serapide, where we’ll gather for a well‑earned celebration dinner and medal reception—a fitting finale to three unforgettable days of cycling, history, and purpose.

5th October

After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey home—tired legs, full heart, and memories to last a lifetime.