… an amazing coast to coast across Italy
Your unforgettable Experience!
Empire Lands Legend ,,, write your history with a unique adventure
#EMPIRELANDSLEGEND
This is the “wild” side you’ve been searching for through central Italy,
taking you along some of the ancient roman consular roads.
Inspired by the Roman Empire, the route spans approximately 915 km with a total elevation gain of around 13,000 m,
featuring 70% off-road terrain. It’s a gravel bikepacking event where you’ll imagine conquering Rome
before returning to your starting point, retracing a significant portion of the historic Gustav Line.
The route starts in Silvi Paese, crossing 3 regions, 4 national parks, and twice traversing the Apennines
to touch both the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Adriatic Sea—a unique coast-to-coast adventure in the heart of Italy.
Along the Empire Lands trail, you’ll discover historic paths (such as the Appia Way and the Via Francigena),
breathtaking landscapes in remote mountain areas, historic villages,
the stunning colors of the Costa dei Trabocchi, ancient cities with thousands of years of history,
and then… Rome is Rome!
EL – LEGEND CP
EL – LEGEND CP:
-> 900 Km e D+ 13.000 m 70% Off Road
-> 5 Check Points
Tagliacozzo Fraz. Poggetello (AQ)
San Pietro (Roma)
San Felice Circeo
Abbazia di Montecassino – Montecassino (FR)
Roccaraso (AQ)
-> Time Limit : 10 days
In the image is the route for Empire Lands Legend 2024.
For 2025, there will be some changes, and we are currently scouting these new paths.
We will share updates with photos and videos on our social media pages.
Why Choose Empire Lands Legend?
If you’re seeking a total adventure,
this is your route!
You’ll cycle along the historic Gustav Line,
discovering iconic places like the Abbey of Montecassino.
Are you ready to embark on an unparalleled journey?
Solo Self Supported Category
Participants must manage their own navigation and plan their logistics independently, ensuring they pass through the mandatory Check Points.
On a route like Empire Lands Legend, this requires careful time management throughout, especially in the remote high-mountain areas where crossing is not recommended at night.
Pair Self Supported Category
In the Pair category,
cyclists act as a single unit, sharing this fantastic adventure together!
It’s even more fun when you ride as a team!
Equipment
Mandatory:
- Helmet
- GPS tracker (instructions provided by the organizers)
- Bike lights as specified in the regulations
- Front and rear bike lights must remain on at all times
- Mobile phone for contacting the operations center and to receive calls
- Reflective stickers for bike and wheels, and high-visibility clothing for the rider (as required by the Italian Traffic Law and event regulations)
- Any other equipment specified in the regulations
Recommended:
- Adequate food and water supplies
- Appropriate clothing for all weather conditions
- Satellite navigation device (Garmin or similar) to load the route
Program
Below you’ll find the Empire Lands schedule.
Stay connected with our social media, as the official event poster will be packed with activities!
May 01, 2025
Check-in and pick up Empire Lands pack
From 10:00am to 12:00am and from 2pm to 17:30pm
May 02, 2025
Grand Depart Empire Lands
08:30 am departure from amazing Belvedere Silvi Paese
More Important Info
Discover all the answers and immerse yourself in an unparalleled cycling experience.
Join us for an authentic adventure!
Have the routes been tested? When will they be shared?
Yes, the routes have been fully ridden by Paolo Laureti .
Details of the routes will be provided after registration.
The official route will be shared with all participants two weeks before the start, allowing for final checks following the winter period.
How can I participate in the events?
Starting December 1st, registrations will open, and the link for registration will be available on our website. Don’t miss out on the early bird discount with limited spots available!
What does the registration include?
Race Package
- LEGEND and EPIC: Live tracking platform; not available for ROOKIE.
- LEGEND and EPIC: Finisher medal, awarded if completed within the time limit.
- ROOKIE: Certificate of Participation.
- Pre-Race Briefing: A briefing session for all participants.
- Five-Stars Refreshments stops at Poggetello and 1 mystery stop that you’ll discover!
…for your safety, you will also find:
Complimentary reflective items included in the race package.
Is there a time limit? What is provided for finishers?
LEGEND: 10 days
EPIC: 6 days
ROOKIE: 12 hours
Given the time limits for completion and the differences among participants, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to wait for everyone’s arrival in Silvi, but we will do our best to welcome you! We love hearing your stories upon your return.
Finishers will receive a commemorative and epic medal in line with the adventure!
What documentation is required for registration?
For Everyone:
- A valid Competitive Medical Certificate for Cycling during Empire Lands.
For Italian Athletes:
- A current membership card from a Cycling Federation (ACSI, FCI, UCI, or another EPS).
For Foreign Athletes:
A UCI membership card.