| Linguaglossa-Castiglione di Sicilia-Rovittello cycle path | |
 | |
| Itinerary type | Cycle lane |
|---|---|
| State | Italy |
| Region | Sicily |
| Territory | Catanese |
| Start | Linguaglossa |
| end | Rovittello |
| Length | 10 km |
| Difference in height | 324 m |
| Difference in descent | 212 m |
Linguaglossa-Castiglione di Sicilia-Rovittello cycle path is an itinerary that develops between Linguaglossa is Rovittello.
Introduction
It is a cycle path obtained from the former Circumetnea railway line between the municipalities of Linguaglossa is Castiglione of Sicily.
Geographical notes
The track overcomes the differences in height and the mountains that stand between the two cities with overhanging glimpses and panoramic views.
Background
With the final decommissioning of the Alcantara-Randazzo railway in 2011, the route was reused. The municipality of Castiglione built the section between Castiglione and Rovittello on concrete, while the Linguaglossa-Castiglione section, initially created as a possible rapid connection between the two locations, was transformed into a cycle path in order to have a greater impact of compatibility. The funding was huge, with the construction of artistic lampposts and a lava paving, but the work was never inaugurated due to executive and bureaucratic problems, then even a landslide divided the runway in two.
Today the track is abandoned, albeit sporadically used by cyclists.
When to go
The track is passable in any season, although in summer the temperatures can be too high.
Who is it for?
For cycling enthusiasts who love lesser known places but also for hikers.
How to get
By car
From Linguaglossa along the 
turn to via Territa bianca.
Stages
Linguaglossa-Castiglione di Sicilia-Rovittello cycle path: full-screen map.
The path starts smoothly in 1 via Territa bianca to Linguaglossa from where the track begins flanked first by a road section. The track then narrows to become only for bikes and pedestrians.
Along the way, a series of tunnels and bridges alternate.
In 2 this point, right at the exit from one of the tunnels is the landslide that prevents the smooth continuation of the track. However, it is possible to go on overcoming the landslide laterally through a small detour on a dirt path.
In 3 this point you can admire a beautiful view over the surrounding valley. Shortly after you pass a tunnel and you can admire one 4 view of Castiglione di Sicilia. Shortly after you can decide whether to turn right to visit the city or continue along a dirt road that joins the second part of the cycle path. To continue it is necessary to pass an underpass and come out on SP 7i where you rejoin immediately after 5 to the other route.
This path is unpaved and less scenic, it develops along stretches of countryside. In 6 this point it is necessary to make a right turn and then immediately left to avoid a short particularly bumpy stretch, and then return to the track. Unfortunately this deviation is not indicated and can be confusing.
The path then makes a 7 deviation leaving what was the ancient railway line using a paved country road that ends at the intersection with the .
Safety
The main problem with this cycle path is the fact that it is very neglected. In several sections the weed has grown and parts of the route are invaded by rubbish along the exit for Castiglione di Sicily. The tunnels are not illuminated, while the stretch collapsed over time has widened the gap between the two road stumps. The crossing of this is not at all easy with the bike, so you need the help of another person to overcome the unevenness of the dirt road.
There is no signage, the entire cycle path is not signposted except for a sign at the intersection with SP 7i.
Around
The area lends itself to a visit to several attractions including the Cuba of Santa Domenica, the Gurne dell'Alcantara and the Gole dell'Alcantara, which are part of the Alcantara River Park.
Other projects
Wikipedia contains an entry concerning Linguaglossa-Castiglione di Sicilia-Rovittello cycle path
Commons contains images or other files on Linguaglossa-Castiglione di Sicilia-Rovittello cycle path
