Exploring the Cassano all'Ionio to Cerchiara di Calabria Route in Southern Italy

This route is situated in the southern Italian region of Calabria, specifically within the province of Cosenza. It connects the town of Cassano all'Ionio to the village of Cerchiara di Calabria, traversing a landscape that rises from low elevations near the Ionian coast to higher inland terrain. The road lies within a mountainous area of the southern Apennines, offering a transition from coastal plains to more rugged topography. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The route extends approximately 13 kilometers (8.2 miles) and is primarily surfaced with high-quality asphalt, rated close to excellent. The road is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating slightly above 2 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme twistiness, making it engaging but manageable for riders of varying skill levels. The road width is predominantly wide (about 70%), with the remainder being middle and narrow widths, and it mostly features two lanes (about 81%), with a small portion being single-lane sections.

Elevation along the route ranges from 98 meters (322 feet) at the lowest point to 660 meters (2,165 feet) at the highest, providing a varied riding environment with some climbing involved. The maximum speed limit is 50 km/h (31 mph), reflecting the road's technical nature and safety considerations. Approximately 12% of the road passes through inhabited areas, primarily near the start and end points.

The route begins near Cassano all'Ionio, a town located roughly 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the starting point, and ends at Cerchiara di Calabria, a smaller village known for its historical and natural attractions. Riders can explore local culture and cuisine in these settlements, which provide a contrast between a larger town and a more rural village setting. The surrounding region is part of the southern Apennines, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The road surface is well-maintained asphalt, suitable for motorcycles, with minimal sections of narrow or single-lane road. Riders should be prepared for moderate curves and elevation changes, which require attentive riding but do not present extreme technical challenges. The speed limit of 50 km/h (31 mph) should be observed for safety. There are no known tolls or entrance fees on this route, but riders should verify current conditions before travel.

Seasonal closures are not commonly reported for this road, but weather conditions in mountainous areas can affect rideability, especially in winter months. It is advisable to check local traffic updates and weather forecasts prior to planning a trip.

For further route planning and navigation, motorcyclists can consult platforms such as Kurviger, Rever, and Wikiloc, where user-generated routes and reviews may provide additional insights. The road is referenced as Strada Provinciale 162 ex SS92 dell'Appennino Meridionale in official documents and maps.

An interactive map of the Cassano all'Ionio to Cerchiara di Calabria route is provided below to assist with trip planning and navigation.