Are you looking for an idea to spend an unforgettable weekend? You are on the right page: today we offer you a unique opportunity to visit the pearls of the Adriatic: Termoli and the Tremiti Islands.

Why visit Termoli?

Termoli is a charming town, overlooking the Adriatic Sea, in a strategic position: 3 hours from Rome, 2 from Naples and about an hour from the Gargano. Its favorable location is attested by the Italian Greenwich appellation: here the 42nd parallel North and the 15th East meridian (the central meridian of the time zone of Rome, Paris and Berlin) cross. According to the rankings of several Italian magazines, Termoli is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Its small size allows you to visit it even in a weekend, passing through itineraries that include the Tremiti Islands or the beauties of Molise and Puglia.

What to see in Termoli?

Its most suggestive glimpse is certainly the ancient village overlooking the sea, surrounded by defensive walls and watchtowers, built to protect it in case of attacks from the sea. Walking through its alleys, among which the narrowest alley in Europe stands out, you come across architectural wonders:

• the Svevian Castle, dating back to the Norman era and dating back to the 11th century, was renovated in 1247 by Frederick II of Svevia;
• the Cathedral, built between the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, underwent some changes with the earthquake of 1464 that are found in the different architectural style of the facade. The lower part has preserved the original Apulian Romanesque style, the upper part is in the Gothic style. Inside there are the remains of San Basso, the patron saint of the city;
• the Trabucco (or "trabocco", according to the Abruzzese pronunciation), a traditional fishing system, consisting of a stilt house connected to the mainland via a walkway.

A city suitable for children

In addition to the historical monuments and the beautiful ancient village, what characterizes this wonderful town is the presence of a crystal clear sea with a shallow bottom and a very fine sand. This makes it particularly suitable for children, thanks also to the presence of beach club that offer animation and entertainment services for the little ones. Termoli is also the closest port to Tremiti islands, reachable with a crossing in less than an hour. The connections with the islands, especially in the summer, are numerous: this allows you to visit Tremiti in a day starting from Termoli.

Tremiti Islands, the "pearls of the Adriatic"

The Tremiti Islands belong to Puglia, but are connected to the coast with ferries and motorboats that leave from the port of Termoli. They are also known as the pearls of the Adriatic. The main feature of these islands is the luxuriant and uncontaminated nature: on the largest island, San Domino, there is a large pine forest of Aleppo pines, which gradually slopes down to the cliff. For sea lovers, then, they are an essential destination: crystal clear water, seabeds that offer a great variety of colors, the possibility of diving, the sea caves which, together with the huge rocks, are the most fascinating natural resources to be admired on the island.

For history lovers, it is a must to visit the island of San Nicola, the second largest in the archipelago. The imposing walls of Torrione Angioino dominate the island and speak of a past characterized by history and legend, corsair struggles and religious symbols. In ancient times the Tremiti Islands were also known as the Diomedee Islands, in homage to the Homeric hero who, according to legend, was buried there.

The archipelago also includes smaller islets, all uninhabited, but characterized by unspoiled nature: Caprara, Cretaccio and Pianosa. To admire the islands in all their beauty, we strongly suggest a guided tour of the sea caves.

Book your stay in the Tremiti Islands directly at the hotel and discover the offers

The Hotel Mistral has arranged a ticket booking service for the Tremiti Islands directly at the reception, avoiding boring queues at the ticket office. Check the box below to find out the current promotions. Here is a typical offer that we offer to sea lovers: 2 days of pure relaxation with overnight stay in a room of our 4-star hotel, sea view and equipped with all comforts and excursion to the Tremiti Islands.

The offer is limited, check availability.

 

Castles, in the collective imagination, have always evoked fairytale places, the homes of kings and fortresses to defend themselves from enemy attacks. Molise, a land little known but immensely rich in history and traditions, hosts several castles, all of medieval origin. In this article we will take a trip to discover the most beautiful castles in the "region that does not exist", one more reason to visit it and find out what it has to offer.

Gambatesa Castle

The one that rises in the historical center of Gambatesa, dominating the Tappino valley, is the typical medieval fortress which, over the years, has become a princely residence. An evident transformation in its structure: the square shape, the base and the two towers located on the north-east side, we testify to its original defensive nature; the windows, balconies and loggia, dating back to the Renaissance, have softened the fortress making it a royal residence. The Capua castle in Gambatesa is spread over four levels. The second, the princely one, is characterized by a fascinating series of frescoes made around the 16th century by Donato da Copertino. Mythological scenes, allegories, enchanting landscapes and typical pergolas of the sixteenth-century mannerist are represented. You can visit all the floors of the structure, up to the terrace, from which you can enjoy an enchanting panorama that embraces the whole country up to the lake of Occhito.

Civitacampomarano Castle

The castle stands in the upper part of the village, on top of a sandstone hill. The first remains date back to the Norman era, around 1100, but it was in the 1400s that the definitive plan was traced: a quadrangular fortress with three cylindrical towers. The history of this castle is closely linked with one of the most striking episodes of betrayal in history. During the conflicts between the Angevins and the Aragonese for the conquest of the Kingdom of Naples, Paolo di Sangro, captain of fortune in the pay of the Angevins, in one of the most delicate moments of the conflict passed from the side of the Aragonese to the cry "Aragona, Aragona!". He received several properties as a reward, including the castle of Civitacampomarano. The fortified building is one of the most suggestive in Molise and has preserved its original structure over the centuries, resisting earthquakes and landslides. Around the structure there is a moat, today covered with greenery, which served to separate the castle from the walls. What is striking is the presence of a large cistern, built through a system of gutters which, by means of slopes studied in detail, collect the water and convey it. From whichever side or direction you look at it, the castle is breathtaking for its infinite beauty and majesty.

 

The Pignatelli castle

The castle of Monteroduni, takes the name "Pignatelli" from the homonymous family that owned it from 1668 to 1806. Of Lombard origins, over the centuries it underwent a series of transformations that transformed the structure from a typically defensive to an elegant palace. Visiting it, one is struck by its typically Renaissance and sumptuous appearance, rich in paintings and majolica. On the first floor, what was once used for servants, it is possible to visit the kitchens where the ancient work tools are kept. The first floor houses a large reception room, on which the coat of arms of the Pignatelli family is stamped. On the second floor there are slits and drains used by the inhabitants of the building to pour boiling liquids on enemies. The castle gardens host the Eddie Lang Jazz Festival in summer and during the event it remains open to the public for visits.

Monforte Castle

In Campobasso, crossing the steep streets of the center on foot, you reach the highest point of the city: it is here that, at a height of about 800 meters above sea level, the Monforte castle stands. The structure looks like an imposing quadrilateral with circular towers and a large rectangular tower, The structure looks like an imposing quadrilateral with circular towers and a large rectangular tower, the keep. Upon entering you are in front of a large courtyard, which in summer hosts historical re-enactments, events and exhibitions. In the basements, prisons were once housed and presumably the jailer with his family. Various popular beliefs revolve around Monforte: it is said that in the dungeons there was a torture room and two secret passages, one that went down the hill to reach the village and a real escape route to escape from enemy ambushes. Nature lovers will be pleasantly impressed by the nature trail that surrounds the castle: the park on the Via Matris, which however is currently in a state of neglect.

Alexander Castle

The castle of Pescolanciano stands on a rocky hill overlooking the town and the Castel di Sangro - Lucera sheep track. It dates back to the twelfth century and saw several families succeed each other until, in 1500, it passed into the hands of a noble Neapolitan family, the d'Alessandro. On the ground floor it is possible to visit the Castle Exhibition in the Castles and the Ceramics Exhibition. What fascinates visitors is certainly the suggestive Throne Room, where an inlaid wooden throne stands more than 2 meters high. In summer, the current owners also open the second floor to the public, which preserves the memories of the Alexander family.

The Svevian castle

The castle of Termoli overlooks the old city, called by the natives "paese vecchio". The feature that makes it unique is its location: it is located on a promontory overlooking the sea, surrounded by ancient city walls. It was presumably built in the Norman era, around the 11th century and then restored in 1247 by Frederick II of Svevia, from which it takes its name. Born to defend the country, thanks to its strategic position, it has a square plan with the corners placed at the cardinal points and has 4 cylindrical towers. Some rooms host the Municipal Art Gallery, while on its top there is the Air Force weather station. Each castle is endowed with at least one legend, that of Termoli revolves around the figure of the "mazz’marill", a spiteful little ghost who wandered through the ancient village during the night, making spiteful to its inhabitants and then retiring to the castle.

 

In recent months, the catchphrase "Il Molise does not exist", complete with a hashtag, has gone around the web, giving in fact enormous visibility to our small, but pretty region. Now that you also know its legendary castles, do you need other reasons to visit it?

 

 

Molise is a small region, sparsely populated and without complex infrastructures, but it represents a real "green link" between Central and Southern Italy. It boasts areas and natural reserves where nature is the master, creating evocative scenarios, in which time seems to have stopped in a dimension totally extraneous to the city chaos and concrete.

Lipu Oasis of Casacalenda

An obligatory stop for wildlife lovers, it is undoubtedly the Lipu Oasis of Casacalenda (about 40 km from Termoli). In addition to being a protected oasis for the protection of protected species, it also has a high historical value: it covers, in fact, two thirds of the Casale wood, which once housed the camp of Gerione di Annibale. In the suggestive hilly forest it is possible to walk paths accompanied by didactic panels, which allow visitors to recognize the different species of flowers (hawthorn, dog rose, red lily, dogwood broom) that populate it. An immersive path in nature that winds through the woods, passing between the natural pools of amphibians and the observation sites of butterflies. To better enjoy this magical place, it is advisable to take advantage of the guided tours, also available in English and French. Every year the Lipu Oasis organizes themed days, dedicated to national and international events on the protection of the environment and nature.

MAB nature reserve

The nature reserve of Collemelluccio-Montedimezzo is located in the heart of the upper Molise Apennines, between Vastogirardi and Pescolanciano (90 km from the coast). 300 hectares of uncontaminated nature, a unique territory made up of luxuriant woods, plant species of all kinds and pastures. It is the ideal destination for those seeking a tranquility from a holiday, which only an immersive experience in nature can give. It is one of the 8 Italian Biosphere Reserves. The MAB (Man and the Biosphere) are a network of localities and terrestrial and coastal / marine ecosystems recognized worldwide for their high naturalistic value. The numerous paths are passable on foot or by mountain bike. Thanks to the self-driving, two electric scooters and Braille driving, even the disabled can enjoy this natural wonder.

Natural oasis of Guardiaregia

The Guardiaregia-Campochiaro natural oasis is a protected natural area in the province of Campobasso, bordering the Matese regional park. It is an hour's drive from our city (90 km). With its extension of 3195 hectares, it is one of the largest and wildest Oasis of the WWF. The spectacular karst phenomena leave you breathless: the Canyon of the Quirino stream, the San Nicola waterfall, the caves of Pozzo della Neve and Cul di Bove, which are the deepest abysses in Europe. Among the attractions it is possible to admire the centuries-old beech trees (the oldest is over 500 years old) as well as several species of birds, such as the great spotted woodpecker, the dipper, the polissena (one of the most beautiful butterflies in the world) and the salamander from glasses (an endemic amphibian that lives only in a certain area of the Apennines). The guided tours take place on the ring of the San Nicola path and offer an hour and a half of unforgettable emotions. The Oasis frequently hosts activities such as work fields, green fields, study weeks and scientific research.

The Pesche natural reserve

The Pesche nature reserve is a protected area located in the province of Isernia, about 95 km from us. It is the youngest natural reserve in Molise and is one of the rare cases in Italy in which the reserve embraces municipal lands and private citizens, in addition to the properties of ecclesiastical bodies. According to authoritative studies, it represents the link between the Mediterranean and temperate bioclimatic zone. What presents itself to the tourist is a breathtaking panorama, which extends from the city of Isernia to the Volturno River Valley, with the Matese and Mainarde mountains in the background. Precisely for this characteristic, ancient mule tracks are being restored at high altitude, which will allow hikers and mountain bikers access to the reserve. Crossing the reserve it is easy to come across the Toloj, small stone buildings, circular in shape, used by shepherds to find refuge from the weather. The spring waters of the Majuri spring are populated by a particular amphibian, the newt, an excellent indicator of healthy environments.

Callora torrent natural reserve

This reserve located in Roccamandolfi (Is) is a real treasure to be discovered, located on the north side of the Matese massif, at the foot of Monte Miletto and 99 km from Termoli. This area takes its name from the Callora river, which in winter feeds on the melting of the snow, and then dry up in the summer. In the rich vegetation, snowdrops, red lilies and bluebells stand out Inside the area there is an ancient medieval castle, reachable from the town center. Also noteworthy is the presence of a Tibetan bridge, which lends itself to spectacular walks with a thrilling panorama.

Prato Gentile

Mountain and snow lovers can only fall in love with Prato Gentile and get lost in its mountain landscapes. Its flat expanse is ideal for cross-country skiing, with slopes appreciated by connoisseurs for beauty and quality. The best known is the "Mario di Nucci" track, approved by F.I.S.I. and home to prestigious competitions. The track winds through beech and fir trees, giving exceptional views. The ski area is suitable for any type of skier, from the less experienced to the professional. For those who spend a few days in Termoli, it may be worth a trip: it is only 102 km away.

  

Fire, in addition to being an indispensable element for the development of civilization, contains a multitude of meanings: power, energy, freedom and meditation. Meanings that fluctuate between the sacred and the profane, between the history of religions and anthropological investigations. Since its flame burns, it is also a symbol of purification and regeneration, as well as light. Molise, with its agro-pastoral culture, boasts several rituals and ceremonies that see fire as their protagonist. Let's find them out together.

Sant'Antonio among the streets of the Molise villages

Saint Anthony the Abbot is the Saint of fire par excellence. In many countries of Molise, on 17 January, the protector of livestock, pets, peasant work, fire and skin diseases is celebrated (herpes zoster is in fact known as Sant'Antonio fire). In many Molise centers, in respect of tradition, fires and bonfires are lit to pay homage to the Saint.

In Campobasso (about 70 km from Termoli), fire is set in the square in front of the church dedicated to the saint. On the churchyard, in the morning, the fire starts the celebrations, with the blessing of the parish priest. On the evening of the party, we meet around the fire lit in the square, to cook boiled broad beans, sausages and torcinelli.

In Colletorto (50 km from Termoli), the fires in honor of Sant'Antonio Abate attract many tourists from outside the region every year. The whole country is mobilized: young people have the task of obtaining wood, the elderly instead prepare bonfires as a charcoal, to facilitate lighting the fire. Every neighborhood, from Earth to Hill, is wrapped in flames and sparks that change its appearance. Among elderly women, the custom of returning home the stinks of sacred fire that, according to ancient popular traditions, drive away the evil ones still persists. On the other hand, young people, to exorcise the dangers of fire, cross the burning embers, creating strange and original jumps. The appointment with the bonfires is accompanied by wine, songs and dances that go on until late at night.

In Acquevive di Frosolone (85 km from Termoli), a district of about eighty families, the celebrations begin on the afternoon of January 16th. Children and young people of all ages sing the song dedicated to the saint, house by house. In the evening, the children's songs give way to groups of musicians and singers who, armed with accordions, accordions, guitars and tambourines, wish health and well-being. In the evening a large fire is lit to pay homage to the companies of singers from neighboring countries. The fire is set on fire throughout the day of the 17th, with groups of friends and relatives entertaining each other between songs, dances and grilled meat.

Even in Pescopennataro (about 100 km from Termoli), the celebrations in honor of Sant'Antonio see fire as the main protagonist. The party involves everyone, young and old and the embers of the fire become a convivial moment in which to taste meat and typical local dishes. Here too, the gastronomic celebrations are preceded by the religious ceremony in the Madonna delle Grazie church where the statue of Saint Anthony is kept.

The 'Ndocciata di Agnone is a heritage of Italy

The biggest fire festival in Molise is celebrated in Agnone (90 km from Termoli). But the celebrations are not in honor of Saint Anthony. It is in fact an over millennial tradition, of pagan origin, linked to the winter solstice. 

The 'Ndocciata is a ritual dedicated to the Sun and over time has become a tribute to the God who is born. The 'ndocce' are large torches made with fir wood and bundles of broom. On the evening of December 24, hundreds of porters illuminate Agnone with a spectacular river of fire, reproducing scenes of peasant life.

Wrapped in large black cloaks they perform under the enthusiastic eyes of the spectators, who crowd the streets of the town. In ancient times, these huge torches served to illuminate the path of the peasants, who moved from the countryside to the village to attend the Christmas mass. Since then, the custom is repeated every year respecting tradition and represents a symbol for Agnone, as well as being an unmissable appointment for thousands of tourists from all over the world. A show to be seen at least once in a lifetime and for which words are not enough to describe its magnificence. Fire as a symbol of fertility, creative force and man's prayer to the unknown, reached by the flames of these huge torches.

The 'Ndocciata is a ritual that has been repeated for millennia and for this reason it has been recognized as "Heritage of Italy for tradition". A tradition so strong and felt that it attracts thousands of Agnonesi scattered throughout Italy and the world every year, proud to participate in one of the greatest fire shows in Europe.

What we have proposed are just some of the winter festivals that attract thousands of tourists to Molise every year. The selection takes into account only the places that can be reached in no more than an hour's drive from Termoli, and therefore from our hotel. They are also the destinations that have most fascinated our winter guests. But we are convinced that Molise has so much to offer, to fill an encyclopedia. You just have to come and discover "the region that is not there"!

 

 

People from Termoli on mid-August commemorates the landing of the Turks and the assault against Pialì Pascià against the ancient village. On August 2, 1566 the Turks landed in Termoli with 200 galleys, besieged the ancient city, putting it on fire. Much of the population was made prisoner, the luckiest managed to escape by taking refuge in the countryside of Guglionesi and Serracapriola.

 

This assault took place for strategic reasons: the objective of the Ottomans was the Tremiti Islands but, in order to conquer them, it was also essential to submit Termoli, so as to prevent the Kingdom of Naples from sending aid and reinforcements to the islands. They never managed to conquer the islands, but that offensive brought death, destruction and slavery. They managed to easily penetrate our city because the walls of the Castle had previously been damaged by earthquakes, making them easily penetrated.

Therefore, every year, on August 15th, the battle between Turks and Christians is recalled.

Termoli relives this dramatic piece of history through evocative representations and events, among which the most appreciated by the public is certainly the fire of the Castle. One of the most beautiful fireworks in Italy, which illuminates and ignites the sky of Termoli and attracts thousands of visitors every year. In the afternoon, the fireworks are preceded by a particular masked parade through the streets of the center. The local young people, disguised as Saracens and those of 16th century fishermen, recall the assault on the Castle and the fighting that followed.

Throughout the evening, the entire North promenade (where our hotel stands) is celebrating, among stalls, musical performances and street food: an evening not to be missed where history, traditions and fun are intertwined to create an event suggestive and extremely exciting. For our guests who want to enjoy the show from the beach, we recommend taking a seat well in advance, because the beach is literally taken by storm.

 

 

Plastic has a devastating impact on the life of the seas and the species that populate it. According to the latest WWF report "Let's stop plastic pollution: how Mediterranean countries can save their sea", plastic pollution has reached alarming levels, so much so that we can talk about a real global crisis.

Plastic, the risks for the marine ecosystem

Plastic Free TermoliEvery year about 8 million tons of plastic end up in our seas and oceans, which inexorably undermines the health and life of the marine ecosystem. What is consumed in the seas, can be considered in all respects an extermination: just think that 90% of the fish we fish have plastic residues in the bowels. Over 270 marine species are considered at risk, because they are particularly prone to being trapped in plastic waste, such as the now notorious abandoned fishing nets. Among the most affected animals are turtles, which swap plastic bags for jellyfish and swallow them go to certain death. 

It is estimated that unless serious action is taken on this age-old problem, by 2050 99% of fish will have plastic inside. And, going up the food chain, the same can be said of men.

Is a world without plastic possible?

Plastic Free Termoli In the era of mass consumption, where everything must be consumed here and now, thinking about a world without plastic may seem impossible. Wherever it is placed, our gaze always comes across objects produced with this material. In the 1950s, those of the economic boom, plastic seemed to represent the future: economic and resistant, the myriad of uses that could be made of it were immediately visible. It was thus produced on a large scale and since then the multinationals continue to produce and sell disposable plastic, despite the fact that 90% of the existing plastic has never been recycled.

The problem of plastic invasion is very complex, primarily because it is a non-biodegradable material and then because recycling practices make water from all the pores. It is clear that a commitment in educating the world population to a radical change in purchasing habits will be crucial (for example by reducing the purchase of disposable goods as much as possible). How important it will be to take steps forward with regards to separate collection and recycling techniques A few steps have been taken and research is starting to experiment with "eat plastic" molecules, as well as electronic devices capable of sweeping our seabed.

Plastic free beaches, clear indications from Europe

Plastic Free Termoli An initiative that goes in the right direction is certainly the one strongly desired by the European Union. While entire areas of the planet with high urbanization rates, such as China and India, still seem uninterested in this threat to the ecosystem, once again Europe is setting a good example. The objectives set by the latest European directives on circular economy in general and plastic reduction in particular are important, but each State and each Region will have to play their part. In Molise, the use of disposable plastic on the beaches has finally been banned: no more plates, glasses, cutlery, plastic straws on the entire coast.

The Lido Mistral beach club is proud of the initiative and has made itself ready, because we were already determined to carry out this awareness-raising work, regardless of the regulatory provisions. From now on, sipping a cocktail by the sea will no longer harm our fish, our seabed, our children. Let's all help: let's save our sea.


 

 

Woods, paths on the sea and medieval villages, adventure on two wheels

In Basso Molise cycle tourism means quality of sport and pleasure of the holiday. Green plains, rolling hills, cultivated fields, waterways, landscapes of rare beauty, suggestive medieval villages, castles and fortifications, will be the background of your itineraries. 

With its extreme variety of environments and landscapes, Basso Molise offers itself not only to cycling enthusiasts but also to off-road lovers who can ride on mountain bikes on dirt roads, steep climbs and breathtaking descents. It will be an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and in the past by following the routes of transhumance and retracing the ancient "tratturi". The small region offers different itineraries on two wheels that will lead you through the culture and traditions of Molise offering you the opportunity to savor the typical flavors of local gastronomy.

The Mistral hotel has thought of tailor-made services for lovers of two wheels:

• Cycling guides on request
• Secure storage for your bike
• Laundry service for technical clothing
• Packet lunch in the morning
• Relaxing massages on request

Discover Basso Molise on two wheels

Itinerary I. From Termoli to Vasto Marina, breathing in the smell of pine and eucalyptus trees

Starting from Termoli and continuing north, a fascinating scenario of the Adriatic coast will open up before you. Go along the north promenade, adjacent to the beach of Sant'Antonio, after 12.5 kilometers you will arrive at the crossroads for Petacciato Marina. On your right the colors and scents of the pine forest that flanks the Statale 16 will keep you company until your arrival at the Marina di Montenero. Here you can stop at the marina and then get back on your bike and ride to Vasto Marina, a vital tourist center full of attractions and entertainment. The route so far is simple and completely flat covering a total of about 30 kilometers and is ideal for those who love to enjoy a sweet bicycle ride. If facing the return road will seem too tiring you will find Vasto-San Salvo station 5 km from Vasto Marina, on Statale 16, where a regional train will bring you back together with your bicycle to Termoli. Find out about train times before leaving.

Itinerary II. From Termoli to Petacciato, along the Sinarca valley

It is an excursion with unforgettable sensations that will take you from Termoli to Petacciato crossing the Sinarca valley. The rather simple tour covers a route of about 30 kilometers and consists mainly of flat sections. Starting from Termoli, walk along the north promenade and continue to the Saracena turret at the height of the Sinarca stream. At the roundabout turn left and cycle for 800 meters, at the crossroads take the signs for Guglionesi and Montecilfone. The path unwinds in the valley floor where you can admire the plains and fields cultivated with wheat and sunflower. When you reach the junction for San Giacomo degli Schiavoni-Petacciato, turn right for Petacciato, SP112. At this point a gentle climb starts that will keep you busy for about 5 kilometers. Once at the roundabout, follow the signs for Petacciato Marina and from there continue towards the sea, the enchanting scenery of the Adriatic seen from above with its bright colors will repay you for the effort spent to get here. Continue until Petacciato Marina the gentle descent towards the SS 16 will be a pleasant discovery of landscapes and panoramas that will surprise you at every turn. Once at the traffic lights, turn right towards Foggia, along the stretch of the Adriatic that will bring you back to Termoli you will be constantly accompanied by the view and the scent of the sea.

Itinerary III. A tour of the "arbereshe" countries of origin

Set off to discover the ancient villages of "Arbereshe" origin. Not far from the coast there is a constellation of villages founded by Albanian populations around 1500. Albanians of that time were fleeing their homeland following the pressure and invasions of the Ottoman Empire. To reach the villages of the interior you can choose a short itinerary of 80 kilometers with a vertical drop of 650 meters, or a longer route, which covers a total of 120 kilometers and which includes a vertical drop of 1200 meters.

The short 80-kilometer route with a vertical drop of 650 meters

Starting from Termoli in a southerly direction you will immediately reach Campomarino and immediately after Portocannone. You will continue the road to San Martino in Pensilis and Ururi, when you find yourself at the crossroads for Larino and Termoli continue for Larino and once you arrive in the village you will have covered about half of your tour, that is about 39 kilometers. From here you reach the Campobasso-Termoli crossroads on the Bifernina state road, turn right and continue until the crossroads for Montecilfone-Guglionesi where you will take the direction for Guglionesi. From there it will be easy to go down a pleasant descent and reach the village of San Giacomo degli Schiavoni, 183 meters above sea level, then pedaling up to Termoli will seem like a walk.

120 km long route with a difference in altitude of 1200 meters

The longer route requires more effort and training. The initial stages of the itinerary are basically the same as the shorter one: from Termoli you go to Campomarino, then Portocannone, San Martino in Pensilis, Ururi, crossroads for Larino-Termoli and you arrive in Larino. The long route retraces the indications of the short one up to the Bifernina, touches the Campobasso-Termoli crossroads and the Montecilfone-Guglionesi crossroads. At this point, however, the long itinerary deviates towards Montecilfone, passes through Palata and arrives at Tavenna, which represents its highest point with its 475 meters above sea level. Leaving Tavenna behind you descend towards Montenero di Bisaccia, 270 meters above sea level and arrive at the San Salvo-Petacciato crossroads, continue on to Petacciato slipway, go up to Petacciato, continue up to the Sinarca roundabout and return so in Termoli.