Castelnovo ne’ Monti has become a familiar and symbolic home for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race (September 2-7, 2024). Since the race’s inception, this town in the Province of Reggio Emilia has consistently hosted at least one stage start or finish. As a result, the Bismantova Rock has emerged as the iconic symbol of this premier Italian MTB stage race.

After a grueling week that will test the limits of the competing athletes, the Appenninica caravan will arrive in the historic lands of Matilde di Canossa. The Mountain Queen Stage, scheduled for Friday, September 6th, is set to be a decisive challenge. Spanning 86 km with a total elevation gain of 2850 meters, this stage could completely overturn the standings established thus far.

The stage begins in Fiumalbo and immediately presents a daunting 20 km uphill stretch that leads into the high altitudes of the Apennines via forest roads. While the breathtaking views of the Emilia-Romagna Apennine ridge may tempt distraction, competitors must stay focused as the course alternates between relentless climbs and descents, culminating in a challenging downhill run towards the finish in Castelnovo ne’ Monti.

The final stage, taking place on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, is a loop that starts and finishes in Castelnovo ne’ Monti. Dubbed “Windy Way Home,” this stage winds through the Monte Ventasso area within the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park, covering 58 km and an elevation gain of 1600 meters. While the first half of the stage is known for its scenic beauty, the course becomes more technical after reaching Lake Calamone, with a predominantly downhill route leading to the final finish line, where riders will receive the coveted finisher’s medal.

“Hosting the Appenninica MTB Stage Race has become an important and cherished tradition for Castelnovo ne’ Monti,” says Emanuele Ferrari, Mayor of Castelnovo ne’ Monti. “Once again, riders from all over the world will have the opportunity to discover our region, renowned for its natural beauty and scenic routes. From the Pietra di Bismantova in the National Park of the Apennines to the Triassic Gypsum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ridges of Monte Cusna and Monte Ventasso, Castelnovo is an ideal destination for cycling.”

CASTELNOVO NE’ MONTI: IN THE LANDS OF MATILDE DI CANOSSA

Castelnovo ne’ Monti and its surrounding areas are rich in history and legend, beginning with the Pietra di Bismantova, which is said to have inspired Dante’s vision of Purgatory during his visit in 1306, as referenced in Canto IV of Purgatorio in the Divine Comedy. The area is also home to several fortresses and castles once belonging to the powerful Matilde di Canossa, built between the 10th and 12th centuries.

The town’s historic center, with its medieval origins, has recently been renovated, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past. Among its landmarks is the Ducal Palace, nestled within the green gardens of Bagnolo. Built by the Este family as a symbol of their dominion, the palace now serves as an annex of the Municipality.

One of the new highlights of the 2023 edition, Fiumalbo has been confirmed as stage venue in the 2024 Appenninica MTB Stage Race (September 2-7), the most important Italian mountain bike stage race. This picturesque town in the Province of Modena, located near the Tuscany border, will be home of the race’s mid-stages, hosting the finish of the third stage, the start and finish of the fourth, and the start of the fifth stage.

On Wednesday, September 4, stage 3 will challenge the riders with a 59 km route featuring 2600 meters of elevation gain from Lizzano in Belvedere to Fiumalbo, traversing some of the most iconic ridgelines of the Apennines. From the Corno alle Scale area to Monte Cimone (with a much cherished KOM at Lago Scaffaiolo), this stage could offer crucial insights into the race’s final outcome. Despite the relatively short distance, the elevation profile rivals only the Queen Stage, making it the first litmus test for those aiming for the overall victory.

On Thursday, September 5, Fiumalbo will be the absolute protagonist of the day, hosting both the start and finish of the 55 km “Tuscan Borderline” stage with 1950 meters of elevation gain. As in 2023, this stage crosses into Tuscany, featuring sections through Sant’Anna Pelago and along the historic Via Vandelli, an 18th-century route between Mantua and Lucca, leading to the Alpe di San Pellegrino pass at 1600 meters above sea level. Here, a new ridgeline will fill the hearts and eyes of the athletes with breathtaking views of the entire Apennines, the Apuan Alps, and the Pisa Mountains—a perfect respite before descending and recovering in preparation for the Queen Stage.

On Friday, September 6, Fiumalbo will bid farewell to the Appenninica MTB Stage Race as it hosts the start of the much-anticipated Mountain Queen Stage. This most feared stage, with its 87 km distance and 2850 meters of total elevation gain, will lead the peloton to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, home of the race’s grand finale.

“It is a great pleasure for Fiumalbo to be a stage venue for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race again this year. Our village will be involved in three stages (two finishes and two starts), and we are delighted to be part of this internationally growing project. This will be an extraordinary showcase for our area, an opportunity to be remembered not only for our natural beauty but also for the hospitality and warmth of our residents“, said Alessio Nizzi, Mayor of Fiumalbo.

FIUMALBO: NATURE AND BEAUTY

Listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy and awarded with the Italian Touring Club’s orange flag for its tourist-environmental qualities for 23 consecutive years, Fiumalbo is part of the Frignano Park, straddling the Monte Cimone and Abetone areas. It’s no coincidence that the third stage, starting from Lizzano in Belvedere, is named “Monte Cimone Challenge XL,” and the fourth stage, looping around Fiumalbo, is called “Tuscan Borderline.”

Known as the “Celtic Village,” Fiumalbo features a varied landscape ranging from 800 meters above sea level along the Scoltenna stream to 2165 meters at the summit of Monte Cimone. This geographic diversity makes it a coveted destination for other outdoor activities throughout the year, such as trekking and ski mountaineering. Food lovers should not miss the typical borlenghi with lard and cured meats.

Since its debut in the 2021 edition, Lizzano in Belvedere has become a regular stage venue for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. This year will be no different, with Vidiciatico hosting the finish of the second stage on Tuesday, September 3, and the start of the next stage the following day.

 

While the first stage from Bologna to Loiano, along the Via degli Dei, serves as a delightful appetizer for the athletes, the second stage, with its 73 km and 2350 meters of elevation gain, immediately raises the challenge to a higher level. Scheduled for Tuesday, September 3, this stage will take competitors into the heart of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines through the Savena, Setta, and Reno valleys.

 

The first 25 km are the most demanding, featuring a rough and varied course, passing through medieval villages like La Scola and Rocca Pitigliana and encountering picturesque castles, including the enchanting Rocchetta Mattei. After reaching Rocchetta Mattei, a long 17 km climb with 900 meters of elevation gain will take athletes to higher altitudes, with only the first 4 km on asphalt.

 

From this point until the finish in Vidiciatico, in the municipality of Lizzano in Belvedere, the stage will follow the Gothic Line, a site of fierce battles during the Resistance in World War II. The “Gothic Line” stage is thus demanding but rich in history and breathtaking landscapes.

 

The following day, Wednesday, September 4, 2024, Vidiciatico will also host the start of stage 4, which will immediately head towards Corno alle Scale. Starting this year, the Corno alle Scale KOM has been established at Lago Scaffaiolo, with a prize awarded to the first athlete to pass through.

 

“We are honoured to be one of the stage venues for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, a highly appreciated event for which we are grateful as an administration. The Emilia-Romagna Apennines are a wonderful territory with great potential, and the Appenninica MTB Stage Race is an important showcase to make the treasures of our mountains known worldwide, from the landscape to the hospitality and culinary products,” says Barbara Franchi, mayor of Lizzano in Belvedere.

LIZZANO IN BELVEDERE, THE HOME OF ENZO BIAGI

 

Lizzano in Belvedere is a municipality in the Province of Bologna at the foot of Corno alle Scale, within the eponymous Natural Park. From the summit of Corno alle Scale, at 1945 meters above sea level, one can enjoy a stunning view that embraces the Alps to the north and the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas to the east and west. A place of peace and meditation is the Sanctuary of Madonna dell’Acero with its monumental trees and the silence of nature.

 

The renowned Italian journalist Enzo Biagi, a prominent face of Rai 1 from 1995 to 2002 with his program “Il Fatto,” was originally from Lizzano in Belvedere. Additionally, ski champion Alberto Tomba, who trained for his greatest success in in the Corno alle Scale area, has a connection to this unique territory.

 

HOW TO REGISTER

 

Registration for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race is still open during the “Late Registration” window until July 31, 2024. As in the past five editions, the organizers have confirmed the individual format and a cap of 150 participants. This decision is aimed at avoiding overcrowding of the trails and ensuring a high-quality support standard for all participants during the race.

Just days after the historic Grand Départ in Italy and the Tour de France’s arrival in Bologna, the 2024 edition of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, Italy’s most prestigious mountain bike stage race, was officially unveiled on Thursday, July 18 in the main city of the Emilia-Romagna region.

The very first stage of the Appenninica history was held on July 20, 2019, in Bologna, rising up the same Madonna di San Luca climb that will feature prominently again in the opener of the 2024 edition. This event will once again showcase the stunning landscapes and unique experiences of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines to the world. Participants from all five continents will ride, challenge themselves, and explore the beauty, flavors, and warm hospitality of these regions.

Officially unveiled in the Sala Tassinari of Palazzo D’Accursio in Bologna, the 2024 edition of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race scheduled for September 2-7, will consist of six stages in a well-established format, guiding athletes from Bologna to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, at the foot of the iconic Bismantova Rock.

At the presentation of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, the Digital Innovation and Communication Councilor of the Municipality of Bologna, Massimo Bugani, hosted the event, together with the Delegate Councilor for Tourism of the Municipality of Bologna, with the coordination of the Metropolitan Tourist Destination, Mattia Santori, and the Chief Political Secretary of the Presidency of the Emilia-Romagna Region, Giammaria Manghi. Co-organizers of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno also spoke, along with the Delegate of the CONI Emilia-Romagna Board, Cesare Mattei.

ATHLETES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE AND REGISTRATIONS NEARLY SOLD OUT

Over the years, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race has solidified its reputation as one of the toughest and most regarded mountain bike stage races on the international scene, becoming a major draw for tourism in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. This is evidenced by the consistently high number of international participants who each year tackle the 400 km course with its 13,000 meters of elevation gain, organized by A.S.D. Happy Trail MTB.

This year, over 130 athletes have already registered out of a maximum of 150 participants, representing all five continents. Twenty-three nations will be at the start, led by Italy (22), followed by the Netherlands (20) and Belgium (16), with strong contingents from Germany (9), Poland (7), and Sweden (6).

The strength of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race lies right in its ability to attract participants from across the globe, with athletes from Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Australia, Canada, the United States, Israel, and South Africa joining the race in Bologna on September 2.

Thanks to its technical and challenging format, combined with the warm hospitality of Emilia-Romagna, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race wins the hearts of its participants, many of whom return for subsequent editions or extend their stays in the regions touched by the race.

Additionally, the partnership between the organizers and #InEmiliaRomagna, the brand of the Emilia-Romagna Tourism Board, has successfully promoted the heart of the Apennines over the years, encouraging sports tourism both locally and internationally. This long-term project aims to establish a true territorial brand for the Apennines.

THE ROUTE

Following feedback from the many athletes who have participated in the Appenninica MTB Stage Race over the years, the organizers of A.S.D. Happy Trail MTB have reduced the total elevation gain to 400 km and 13,000 meters of total elevation gain.

In addition to hosting the start of the mountain bike stage race as in 2019, Bologna will welcome all participants from Sunday, September 1. In the heart of the city, in Sala Borsa, all preliminary athlete accreditation operations will take place, with interviews with the main protagonists of the race and a presentation of the stages awaiting the athletes over the next six days.

From Bologna to Loiano on Monday, September 2, most of the stage will follow the Via degli Dei. A stage of 43 km and 1,500 meters of elevation gain provides a perfect taste of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race.

Starting from the second stage on Tuesday, September 3, the race will climb into the true Apennine ridge from Loiano to Lizzano in Belvedere, arriving in the village of Vidiciatico. Covering 73 km and 2,350 meters of elevation gain, following the Gothic Line, the scene of resistance during World War II.

On Wednesday, September 4, the Monte Cimone area will be the main feature, starting in Lizzano in Belvedere at the foot of Corno alle Scale and reaching Fiumalbo. Covering 59 km and 2,600 meters of elevation gain, this stage will be a crucial turning point for the general classification, crossing some of the most iconic trails of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race.

The following day brings the fast and technical loop around Fiumalbo, with a crossing into Tuscany in the Abetone area. Covering 55 km and 1,950 meters of elevation gain, this stage will offer pure fun ahead of the Queen Stage.

On Friday, September 6, the Mountain Queen Stage from Fiumalbo to Castelnovo ne’ Monti promises to be the decisive test for the general classification. With its 87 km and 2,850 meters of total elevation gain, the Queen Stage on the penultimate day is likely to create significant gaps or lead to possible final turnarounds.

On Saturday, September 7, the race will conclude beautifully in the shadow of the Bismantova Rock with a 56 km loop and 1,650 meters of elevation gain within the Monte Ventasso area.

The 2024 route remains tough and demanding for all athletes, with long and challenging climbs, technical sections where excellent riding skills will be crucial, and postcard landscapes of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines.

THE SIX STAGES

Stage 1 – Via degli Dei – 43 km and 1550 m elevation gain

Monday, September 2: Bologna – Loiano

Stage 2 – The Gothic Line – 73 km and 2350 m elevation gain

Tuesday, September 3: Loiano – Lizzano in Belvedere

Stage 3 – Monte Cimone Challenge XL – 59 km and 2600 m elevation gain

Wednesday, September 4: Lizzano in Belvedere – Fiumalbo

Stage 4 – Tuscan Borderline – 55 km and 1950 m elevation gain

Thursday, September 5: Fiumalbo – Fiumalbo

Stage 5 – Mountain Queen Stage – 87 km and 2850 m elevation gain

Friday, September 6: Fiumalbo – Castelnovo ne’ Monti

Stage 6 – Windy Way Home – 56 km and 1650 m elevation gain

Saturday, September 7: Castelnovo ne’ Monti – Castelnovo ne’ Monti

THE JERSEYS

The leader jerseys of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race are once again designed by Natali Sports Wear, continuing a six-year partnership. The blue jersey will be worn by the overall men’s leader, while the pink jersey will go to the top woman. Additionally, three other jerseys are awarded to category leaders: green for the Masters, orange for the Grand Masters, and purple for the Great Grand Masters

QUOTES

Giammaria Manghi, Chief of Political Secretariat of the Presidency of the Emilia-Romagna Region: “Appenninica MTB Stage Race is a competition that promotes the territory of the Apennines in Emilia-Romagna, highlighting its identity and beauty while offering participants the opportunity to experience unique adventures. Events like these are an integral part of the strategy implemented by the Region to promote the Apennines, aiming to contribute to the revival of a territory with great potential.”

Massimo Bugani, Councillor for Digital Innovation of the Municipality of Bologna: “We are proud and pleased to host Appenninica MTB Stage Race, an extraordinary and important event. Right after the Tour de France, Appenninica is the icing on the cake to showcase the beauty of our hills and Apennines, with our city and the San Luca portico once again taking center stage.”

Mattia Santori, Delegate Councilor for Tourism of the Municipality of Bologna, with the coordination of the Metropolitan Tourist Destination: “After hosting the Tour de France, Bologna will also be home to the start of Appenninica MTB Stage Race, another international event that highlights the beauty of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. From the city to the mountains, this event promotes outdoor mountain bike tourism, allowing athletes and enthusiasts to discover and enjoy the beauty of our territory.”

Cesare Mattei, Delegate of the CONI Emilia-Romagna Board: “The figures related to cycling sports are continually growing, and the MTB discipline allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the scenic beauty. The Appenninica MTB Stage Race not only enriches the region’s sporting initiatives but also promotes the territory, showcasing our beautiful Apennines and ensuring significant economic benefits.”

Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno, co-organizers of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race:

“The start from Bologna, two months after the historic Grand Départ of the Tour de France, is a great source of pride for us, propelling the Appenninica MTB Stage Race to new heights. This year, our international focus is confirmed with athletes from all over the world, motivated to experience a challenging but fascinating and authentic journey through the trails of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines.”