Stage

2

Wednesday 16
September 2026

143 km
Altitude gain 2500 mt

Starting in

D ::

Popoli Terme -

Caramanico Terme

Stage 2

Popoli Terme - Caramanico Terme

Cupello -
Casalincontrada

Popoli Terme -
Caramanico Terme

Oricola-Piana del Cavaliere -
San Benedetto dei Marsi

Silvi -
Controguerra

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Planimetria/Map tappa 2 Il Giro d'Abruzzo 2026

technical info

Route
A mountain stage featuring several climbs, the toughest of which, Forcella di Acciano, comes shortly after the start. A long descent brings the riders back near Popoli Terme before climbing through Castiglione a Casauria, Pescosansonesco and Nocciano on constantly undulating roads. The final 20 kilometres are predominantly uphill, culminating at the summit of Scagnano (KOM) before a series of gentle rises and descents to the finish.
Final kilometres
The final kilometres are uphill. With 500 metres to go, riders negotiate a U-turn around a roundabout before the final ascent to the finish line.

Strava Route

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tourist info

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POPOLI TERME

Overview

Popoli Terme is the gateway to the Majella National Park and a historic crossroads between the mountains of Abruzzo. Located at the confluence of the Aterno and Pescara rivers, the town has long been renowned for its mineral and sulphurous springs, whose therapeutic properties have made it one of central Italy’s best-known spa destinations. Its historic centre, overlooked by the imposing Cantelmo Castle, reflects centuries of strategic importance and rich cultural heritage.

CARAMANICO TERME

Overview

Caramanico Terme, nestled in the heart of the Majella National Park, is one of Abruzzo’s most enchanting villages, where nature, history, and wellness come together in a setting of extraordinary beauty. Perched on the slopes of the Majella massif and surrounded by forests, gorges, and natural springs, the town has been renowned since the 19th century for its mineral-rich thermal waters, making it one of central Italy’s most celebrated spa destinations.

Points of Interest

The historic centre is characterised by its modern core, which developed around the spa complex, featuring the magnificent Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, built to serve the dual purpose of a fortification to defend the town – given its imposing walls – and as a prominent place of worship.

As well as being home to the Scientific Headquarters of the Maiella National Park and the Dry Stone Walling School, the village offers spa treatments and numerous outdoor activities such as trekking, horse riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and sport fishing.

Nestled within unspoilt natural surroundings inhabited by wolves, bears and golden eagles, the area boasts picturesque points of interest such as the rock-hewn hermitages of San Bartolomeo and San Giovanni, the stone hamlet of Decontra and the Luchi Canyon.

All these attractions can be freely explored, including through organised guided tours.