Cesenatico, Emilia Romagna, Italy

Popular among Italians as a beach resort, Cesenatico in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy is probably best known to cyclists as the home of the late Marco Pantani, one of the greatest cyclists that bike-mad Italy has ever produced.

Where to Ride?

While Pantani was known for his climbing exploits, Cesenatico and its immediate surroundings are flat or rolling, but head further out to the roads used by the Nove Colli Gran Fondo and you’re greeted by challenging climbs such as the one to Carpegna, a favourite of a young Marco Pantani.

Where to Stay?

As a popular beach holiday resort, there is a huge range of hotels to choose from in Cesenatico. Contact us if you have any questions about the best choices for your requirements.

Where to Eat?

Being a seaside town, there is plenty of fish on the menu in Cesenatico. But beyond the many restaurants to choose from, be sure to check out some of the “street food” popular in the region, for example the piadina for sale in many kiosks – a local flatbread filled with local ingredients.

What to do, other than ride?

It’s a beach resort popular with Italians, so why not copy them and grab a deckchair? If you want to keep things more cycling related, don’t forget to visit “Pantani Space”, Spazio Pantani a museum devoted to the life of Marco Pantani.

What Climb not to miss?

Cesenatico isn’t surrounded by monster climbs, but the Colle del Barbotto is often the climb where people get unstuck on the Nove Colli Gran Fondo. 5.5 km with an average slope of 6.9 percent, it’s not too much on paper, but the final kilometre hits 18 percent in places. 

What you didn't know about Cesenatico?

Cesenatico's port canal was surveyed and drawn by Leonardo da Vinci at the request of Cesare Borgia, as part of his plans to fortify the nearby town of Cesena.