Granfondo degli Erei
The mountain bike race between the Erei and Iblei Mountains, from San Michele di Ganzaria to Caltagirone
About Granfondo degli Erei
A granfondo that captures the heart of Sicily
The Granfondo degli Erei is one of the most highly regarded mountain bike races in the Sicilian scene. Established in 2024, it takes place in San Michele di Ganzaria, a small town in the Erei Mountains in the province of Catania, and extends into the neighboring territory of Caltagirone, embracing a hilly landscape that acts as a natural watershed between the Erei and Iblei Mountains. It is organized by the ASD Aquila Ganzaria and ASD Eagle Bike Caltagirone associations, with the patronage of the Municipality of San Michele di Ganzaria.
The course
The main route measures 42 kilometers with approximately 1,200 meters of elevation gain, entirely immersed in dense woodland at an average altitude of around 500 meters. Between dirt roads, single tracks, and the characteristic path of the old Caltagirone-Dittaino railway, the predominantly sandy terrain makes the ride fast yet technically demanding. The start is set in Piazza Garibaldi, in the heart of the town.
More than just competition
In addition to the competitive race, the event offers a tourist cycling ride of about 28 kilometers with 850 meters of elevation gain, which follows part of the main route and is open to cycle tourists and enthusiasts of all levels. It is a perfect opportunity to discover the natural heritage of the Calatino area on two wheels, amidst oaks, cork forests, and panoramic views of inland Sicily.
Constant growth
In just a few years, the Granfondo degli Erei has grown in prestige: from its first edition in 2024, which was part of the ACSi Sicilia circuit, it has moved under the aegis of the Italian Cycling Federation (FCI), joining the calendars of the Coppa Sicilia MTB and the Coppa Ionica. This journey has brought athletes from all over Sicily to San Michele di Ganzaria, contributing to the promotion of sports tourism in the region.
Granfondo degli Erei — edition 2026
A day of sport between the Erei and Iblei
The 2026 edition marked the debut of the Granfondo degli Erei in the prestigious Italian Cycling Federation circuit: the event was valid as the 4th stage of the Coppa Sicilia FCI Off-Road, the 3rd round of the Regional CSAIN Granfondo Championship, and a stage of the 2026 Coppa Ionica. 131 athletes were at the start, departing at 9:30 AM from Piazza Garibaldi on the classic 42-kilometer course with 1,200 meters of elevation gain.
The winner was Giuseppe La Terra Pirrè (Team Melanzì Vittoria), who finished in 1h56'40", finishing about a minute ahead of Samuele Cardine (Team Doctor Bike 25) and Michele Gazza (New Era Cycling). Alongside the competitive race, the traditional tourist cycling ride open to amateur cyclists also took place.
Programme Granfondo degli Erei 2026
Sunday, May 17, 2026
- Morning — meeting and preliminary operations in Piazza Garibaldi, San Michele di Ganzaria
- 09:30 AM — start of the competitive race (42 km, 1,200 m D+) valid for the Coppa Sicilia MTB FCI, the Coppa Ionica, and the Regional GF CSAIN Championship
- Simultaneously — tourist cycling ride of about 28 km (850 m D+) open to amateur cyclists
- Following — awards ceremony for categories and overall winners
Overall podium: 1st Giuseppe La Terra Pirrè (Team Melanzì Vittoria) in 1h56'40"; 2nd Samuele Cardine (Team Doctor Bike 25); 3rd Michele Gazza (New Era Cycling).
Highlights Granfondo degli Erei 2026
Prices Granfondo degli Erei 2026
Practical information — Granfondo degli Erei
How to get there
San Michele di Ganzaria is located in the Calatino hinterland, in the province of Catania, well-connected to Caltagirone (about 15 km) and reachable by car via the SS117bis. The nearest airport is Catania-Fontanarossa.
Meeting point and start
The meeting point and start are in Piazza Garibaldi, in the town center.
Registration
Registration is handled through the Speedpass service; teams with at least 7 registered athletes benefit from one free entry (payment for 6 participants). For information: +39 333 1490222.
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Where does it take place — Granfondo degli Erei
Piazza Garibaldi
Piazza Garibaldi, 95040 San Michele di Ganzaria