Grand Départ 2027
Setting off by bike from our own corner of the Alps, meeting again at Montecassino.
September 2027, loaded bikes outside three abbeys, ready to roll in the same days. To open the Via we imagine a departure like this, free and amateur, with no organisation behind it and no rankings. We ride together, slowly, through the hidden beauty of this country. Everyone travels independently and at their own risk, at their own pace, on the route they prefer. At the end, whoever wishes meets up at Montecassino.
How it works (the idea)
- Three open departures, one per route, with suggested dates for riding into Montecassino at roughly the same time.
- No rankings, times or cut-offs: you ride, you do not race. The last bike of the day still finds the guesthouse door open.
- Fully self-supported, with no support and no luggage transfer. Stages, lodging and bookings are each rider's choice.
- If you only have a few days, you can ride the Finale, from Subiaco to Montecassino via Casamari, and join the get-together.
- Small groups and a quiet pace, out of respect for the abbeys and those who live in them.
When
We are thinking of September 2027. The summer heat is over, the days are still long and the Alpine passes open, and after August the guesthouses have more room. We will set the dates with the abbeys, starting with Montecassino, and those who have expressed interest will get them first.
Express your interest
Leave us your name and email. It's a sign of interest, free and with no commitment. It helps us understand how many people are thinking of coming and on which route. You'll receive the suggested dates and a few practical tips.
- Free, now and in the future: there is no fee for the get-together.
- No entry and no places to book.
- Unsubscribe any time with one click.
- Get the suggested days before they are published.
Before the Grand Départ: two trial rides
Before the big day we suggest two short, free rides to test the road and the welcome. We meet at the start, then everyone rides on their own. Dates and details will go to those who have expressed interest.
Subiaco → Casamari → Montecassino
spring 2027 (around March–April, near 21 March, the feast of the Transitus of St Benedict)
The shared finale of all three routes, through the Simbruini mountains and Ciociaria. 2–3 days.
Camaldoli → Vallombrosa
late spring 2027 (May–June)
Two forest abbeys, between the Casentino and Pratomagno. 1–2 days.
What's missing, for now
- Final dates: for now there is only an indicative window.
- Organised services: none are planned. No support, luggage transfer, return trips or insurance.
- Entries: none. Everyone books their own accommodation.
FAQ
Who is responsible during the trip?
Each rider, for themselves. The Grand Départ is an amateur get-together, not an organised event: assess your fitness, your bike, the weather and the traffic, and follow the Italian Highway Code and the rules of the places you pass through.
Do I need to be fit?
You need to be used to riding several days in a row on a loaded bike. The Finale and the trial rides are the best way to start.
Can I join on an e-bike?
Of course: everyone travels on the bike they prefer. Please check charging options along the stages yourself.
Is it a religious event?
No. The Via is a secular pilgrimage, open to everyone, that passes through religious places with respect.
Questions? Write to thaleaproject@gmail.com. An amateur, non-profit project. The tracks are indicative: everyone rides independently, at their own risk.