Formello - Lake Turano
A loop of about 195 km (121 miles) designed for lovers of leisurely motorcycle rides that take in roads, views and local food. An itinerary far from motorways and fast roads, made for those who want the pleasure of flowing riding, breathtaking views across Etruria and the Sabina and the bends of Lake Turano.
Setting off from Formello (RM), at the gates of Veio Park, we leave urban traffic behind and take the SP10a towards Mazzano Romano. Immersed in the tufa woodlands of the Treja Valley, we pass close to the Monte Gelato Falls on the way to Civita Castellana. Here the iconic Ponte Clementino deserves a short stop, with a spectacular panoramic view over the ravines (deep gorges carved into the tufa) dominated by the Sangallo Fortress.
After crossing the Tiber at Ponte Felice, we ride into the heart of the Bassa Sabina. Following the winding SP657 past Poggio Mirteto, we sink into a hilly landscape dominated by centuries-old olive groves. Climbing along the SP34 to the valley of the River Turano, the tarmac offers a fluid, fun rhythm, ideal for the generous torque of classic twins. Suddenly the view opens onto the emerald waters of Lake Turano, leading us to the striking hilltop village of Castel di Tora.
After lunch, the ride home is a sequence of bends and emotion. We climb from Castel di Tora towards Orvinio (at almost 1,000 metres, about 3,300 ft) along the SP39, surrounded by dense beech woods. Crossing the Monti Lucretili Nature Reserve, we begin the descent towards Scandriglia and Palombara Sabina, closing the loop back towards Formello.
A motorcycle route is not complete without the right pauses for the palate and the eyes:
- Castel di Tora bridge: The ideal viewpoint for a souvenir photo with the waters of Lake Turano and the medieval village in the background.
- Orvinio belvedere: A cool terrace in the mountains where the engines can rest and you can enjoy the view over the valley.
- Maccheroni a fezza: Typical hand-made fresh pasta from Castel di Tora, served with a rich meat ragù or local porcini mushrooms.
- Bruschetta with Sabino DOP olive oil: The unmistakable extra virgin olive oil of the Sabina on wood-fired country bread.
- Artisan cured meats and cheeses: Keep yourselves going with a board of local pecorino and traditional cured meats from Lazio.
