Liberty Granfondo MTB

The southernmost granfondo in Italy

The Liberty Granfondo MTB is a mountain bike race held in Canicattini Bagni, a small town in the province of Syracuse nestled in the heart of the Iblei Mountains. Founded in 2024 by two former professional cyclists, Pierpaolo Ficara and Michele Gazzara, the event quickly established itself as one of the most anticipated stops on the Sicilian and regional off-road calendar, proudly claiming the title of the southernmost granfondo in Italy.

A route between nature and history

What makes the Liberty Granfondo unique is the terrain it traverses. The trails wind through the evocative Iblei canyons, the historic regie trazzere (ancient transhumance routes), mule tracks, and the characteristic dry-stone walls that define the landscape of the Syracuse plateau. Along the route, bikers encounter gems like the historic Sant'Alfano bridge, immersing themselves in wild natural scenery just a few kilometers from the famous Cavagrande del Cassibile reserve.

The race offers various tracks designed for every level: a competitive loop for the Granfondo and the E-Bike trial, and a gentler excursionist route, also open to cycle tourists who want to enjoy the landscape without the pressure of the stopwatch.

Sport, culture, and community

The Liberty Granfondo is more than just a sporting competition: it is a true festival for Canicattini Bagni and the entire Iblei district. The event is an official stage for major regional circuits (FCI Sicily Cup, Regional E-Bike Championship) and is deeply intertwined with local life, particularly the Palio di San Michele celebrations, enlivening the village with side events, concerts, and moments of solidarity.

For bikers arriving from outside the region, the welcome is particularly warm, reflecting the race's mission to showcase a different side of Sicily—far from the beaten path, rooted in nature, tradition, and hospitality.