CA 61 – Via del Gargano [Northern Puglia]

The starting point of this route is the junction of provincial roads 161 and 136, at the border between Molise and Puglia, reachable along the Ciclovia Adriatica from the Campomarino train station. From here, head towards Chieuti on secondary roads, then towards Lesina on secondary roads and service roads.

From Lesina, continue on the service road towards San Nicandro Garganico, passing Lago di Lesina and returning to the coast near Torre Mileto. Then continue along the coast, with the sea on your left and Lago di Varano on your right, reaching Rodi Garganico via cycle paths and secondary roads. From Rodi Garganico you reach Peschici on a provincial road — take care in summer months due to high tourist traffic.

From Peschici you reach Vieste on hilly inland roads through the Foresta Umbra, with a short stretch on a provincial road. Still within the Foresta Umbra, secondary roads take you to Mattinata — note the significant uphill gradient. Leaving Mattinata requires great care (300 metres on the main road), after which you can avoid the tunnel by taking a small climb towards Manfredonia.

From Manfredonia, continue on coastal secondary roads and cycle paths, taking care on some stretches of main road (initially with a sufficient verge for cyclists, which then narrows towards the SP141 delle Saline). You arrive at the junction of SP60 di Beccarini and SP59, where the route rejoins the official Tavoliere variant. If you wish to end your journey or travel elsewhere, the nearest train station is at Foggia, inland.

Please note: in some sections the route deviates from the Bicitalia BI6 track, following variants considered safer with fewer stretches on main roads.