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| ITINERARIES OF ELBATUTTANATURA |
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BIKE TRAILS Route: S.Andrea - Marciana - Via Crucis - S.Andrea. Our trip starts from the bus stop in the small village of Zanca. We take the number 25 main road in the direction of Marciana. The road seems flat at the beginning, but the slope increases progressively, although without ever becoming really steep. After having travelled for around 6 km, enjoying the splendid view of the north-western coast and, weather permitting, of Capraia, Gorgona and part of the Etruscan Riviera, we reach the town of Marciana, at 375 metres above sea level. We take the first road on the right, following signs to the Santuario della Madonna del Monte. At the next fork, we take the road on the left, which starts off with a steep climb. A few hundred metres later, we come across signs for path number 3 on the right. We follow it, immediately stepping it up a gear due to the steep slope and the cobbled surface, which makes the climb tiring and highly technical at the same time. We continue climbing up Via Crucis, ignoring the various forks for paths numbers 6, 10 and 13. At around 555 metres above sea level, and after having travelled 2.5 kilometres from Marciana, we come to path number 14 leading to Patresi. We follow this path, which starts off wide and flat, with a few technical stretches amidst the boulders. We are able to observe the unusual granite shapes of the Aquila and Uomo Masso from close up, while enjoying a view over S. Andrea and Zanca down below. A few very difficult stretches force us to proceed on foot, carrying our bikes: this is all part of the fun on Elba! The descent starts off easily enough but soon becomes more difficult. We cross through the chestnut wood until coming to a small chapel. After another difficult descent, we come to the intersection with path number 13. We continue along the level path on the left until coming to the next fork for Zanca: now comes the good bit for free riders! We lower the saddle and start down the steep descent over large boulders of granite firmly stuck into the ground, almost forming a long natural flight of steps that takes us back to Zanca. This route is great fun, but we always recommend wearing a helmet and using a good quality mountain bike. We would also remind you to be prudent at all times and respect the surrounding countryside!
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