Since its inception, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race has often crossed paths with the Giro d’Italia. From Bologna’s San Luca climb in 2019 to the peaks of the Modena Apennines, and now Castelnovo ne’ Monti.
On Wednesday, May 21, the town will host the finish of Stage 11 of the 2025 Giro d’Italia, the Viareggio–Castelnovo ne’ Monti. Just one month later, the town will also set the stage for the grand finale of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. The challenging MTB stage race across the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna returns to the Province of Reggio Emilia for its final two stages, on Thursday, June 26 and Friday, June 27, where the 2025 champion will be crowned.
This marks a memorable end of spring and start of summer for Castelnovo ne’ Monti, reinforcing the town’s growing reputation as a sporting hub in Emilia-Romagna. Among the many events hosted here, Appenninica MTB Stage Race holds a special place, as Castelnovo is the only venue featured in every edition of the event to date.
Thursday, June 26 brings the toughest test of the week – the High Mountain Queen Stage. Spanning 89 km with 3,100 metres of elevation gain, it’s the ultimate challenge for athletes and a must-see for fans.
Starting from Riolunato, the stage immediately climbs to the Apennine ridges and high-altitude forests. The initial ascent, partially paved and partially forest road, is moderate until Monte Saltello. From there, relentless climbs and technical descents stretch to km 45, wearing down even the strongest riders.
The course then plunges into highly technical trails leading to Ligonchio, demanding focus and top-tier handling skills. In the final kilometres, riders cross the Secchia River before climbing toward the Bismantova Rock and tackling one last tricky descent into Castelnovo ne’ Monti’s town centre.
Friday, June 27 will feature the closing stage: a 58 km loop with 1,850 metres of elevation, starting and finishing in Castelnovo ne’ Monti. A mountainous finale that could shake up the general classification and decide the winner of the 2025 edition – all under the gaze of the Bismantova Rock, exactly one month after the Giro d’Italia’s Maglia Rosa passed through.
“The Appenninica MTB Race once again confirms Castelnovo Monti as a true home for sport – and showcases how sport can elevate our landscapes and natural environment, from the Bismantova Rock to the mountain ridges,” said Emanuele Ferrari, Mayor of Castelnovo ne’ Monti.
“This long-standing partnership highlights how sport fosters connections and promotes our territory with a positive, sustainable image. The race brings a piece of the world here, and even if it’s just for a short time, many carry these memories with them and spread the word when they return home – which is the best promotion we could ask for.”
In Castelnovo ne’ Monti, cycling is more than a sport – it’s a way to share the territory’s soul. Between the Giro d’Italia and Appenninica MTB Stage Race, 2025 promises a summer packed with unforgettable rides.