Trenitalia Official Green Carrier della Fiera del Cicloturismo 2026Embarking on the South Italy Greenways: A Cyclist’s Journey from North Cape to Southern Italy
In August 2026, two intrepid cyclists, Simona Pergola and Simona Ridolfi, commenced an ambitious journey from North Cape, Norway, to Reggio Calabria, Italy, traversing over 7,000 kilometers across nine European countries. This endeavor, known as the South Italy Greenways, aims to spotlight the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Southern Italy’s national parks. (southitalygreenways.it)
The Route and Its Significance
Following the EuroVelo 7, also known as the Sun Cycle Route, the journey encompasses diverse landscapes, from the Arctic Circle to the Mediterranean coast. The cyclists are set to pass through Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Italy, engaging with local communities and promoting sustainable tourism along the way. (southitalygreenways.it)
Promoting Southern Italy’s National Parks
The initiative is a collaborative effort among four major national parks in Southern Italy:
- Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park
- Appennino Lucano Val d’Agri Lagonegrese National Park
- Pollino National Park
- Aspromonte National Park
Collectively, these parks span over 500,000 hectares, offering rich biodiversity and cultural experiences. The South Italy Greenways project seeks to integrate these parks into a cohesive tourist destination, emphasizing eco-friendly travel and the exploration of lesser-known regions. (regione.basilicata.it)
Engaging with the Public
Throughout their journey, Pergola and Ridolfi have organized events to engage with the public and share their experiences. On September 15, 2026, they held a gathering at Trattoria a’ Muntagnola in Berlin’s Schöneberg district. The event featured a presentation of the project, discussions with local experts, and a traditional aperitif, fostering connections between the cyclists and attendees. (bikeitalia.it)
Upcoming Events in Italy
The journey continues with planned stops in Italy, including:
- October 5, 2026: Bologna, at the Velostazione ExDynamo, a hub for the city’s cycling community.
- October 7, 2026: Florence, organized by FIAB Firenze Ciclabile at the ARCI Circle.
These events aim to connect with local cyclists and promote the greenways of Southern Italy. (bikeitalia.it)
Looking Ahead
The South Italy Greenways project is not just a journey but a movement to promote sustainable tourism and highlight the natural and cultural treasures of Southern Italy. The cyclists’ experiences and the project’s progress are documented daily, providing an authentic and dynamic narrative of their adventure. (bikeitalia.it)
For more information and to follow the journey, visit the official website: (southitalygreenways.it)