MTB & Trekking Event "Fatica e Faciola"
Mountain bike and trekking gathering in the Peloritani Mountains, Roccavaldina
About Fatica e Faciola
Fatica e Faciola: cycling and hiking in the heart of the Peloritani
In Roccavaldina, a charming village perched about 320 meters high on the Tyrrhenian side of the Peloritani Mountains in the province of Messina, Fatica e Faciola returns every spring—a gathering dedicated to mountain biking and trekking. Organized by the BiciRoccando Association, the event has become a staple for cycling and hiking enthusiasts who have been choosing this corner of Sicily for years to enjoy a day of sport immersed in nature.
A name that captures the spirit of the day
The event's name perfectly summarizes its soul: the fatica (effort) of tackling climbs and dirt trails, rewarded by the faciola (the local peasant-style bean) and the authentic flavors that await participants at the end of the route. Sport and traditional gastronomy blend into a convivial formula that has driven the event's growing success, edition after edition.
The route
The main mountain bike track stretches for approximately 32 kilometers with an 800-meter elevation gain, crossing forests, mule tracks, and scenic ridges. Along the way, the view sweeps from the Capo Tindari promontory to the silhouette of the Aeolian Islands, offering some of the most evocative vistas in the Messina area. Alongside the cycling route, there is also a trekking option, designed for those who prefer to experience the landscape on foot, with refreshment points located along the itinerary.
Roccavaldina, a village between history and nature
The setting for the event is one of the most fascinating villages in the Peloritani range. Roccavaldina is famous for its Castello dei Valdina, the only Florentine-style building in Sicily, and for its ancient pharmacy, which houses a precious collection of 16th-century majolica from Urbino. Participating in Fatica e Faciola also means discovering this heritage and the local products, from dry-farmed cherry tomatoes to traditional peasant dishes.
A popular event
Over the years, Fatica e Faciola has grown into one of the most beloved cycle-touring events in the province of Messina, uniting expert athletes, families, and mountain enthusiasts alike. The atmosphere is that of a grand village festival: meeting in the historic center, starting in a group, mutual support along the trail, and a final convivial moment celebrating good Sicilian food.
Fatica e Faciola — edition 2026
Fatica e Faciola 2026 — 9th edition
The ninth edition of Fatica e Faciola was held on Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Roccavaldina (ME), organized by the BiciRoccando Association. As per tradition, the day combined a mountain bike gathering along the scenic Peloritani Mountains route—approximately 32 km with an 800-meter elevation gain—with a trekking option for those who preferred to explore the area on foot.
The numerous participants enjoyed views toward Capo Tindari and the Aeolian Islands, refreshment stops along the trail, and the customary final convivial moment featuring the traditional peasant dishes that give the event its name. The edition was met with great enthusiasm by the community of Sicilian enthusiasts.
Programme Fatica e Faciola 2026
Meeting in the historic center of Roccavaldina, group departure toward the Peloritani trails. MTB route of approximately 32 km with 800 m elevation gain and an alternative trekking option, with refreshment points along the route and a final convivial moment.
Highlights Fatica e Faciola 2026
- MTB route of approximately 32 km with 800 m elevation gain
- Trekking option for hikers
- Panoramas of Capo Tindari and the Aeolian Islands
- Refreshments and convivial moment with typical local dishes
Practical information — Fatica e Faciola
How to get there
Roccavaldina is located in the Peloritani Mountains in the province of Messina. By car, it can be reached from the A20 Messina-Palermo motorway (Tyrrhenian coast exits), continuing along the provincial roads that climb toward the village. The reference railway station is Messina, from which you can continue by car.
Registration and contacts
Registration details, route information, schedules, and participation fees are announced annually by the BiciRoccando Association via their official Facebook page. For inquiries, you can email [email protected].
Tips
For the MTB route, a mountain bike in good condition, a mandatory helmet, and technical clothing suitable for off-road terrain are recommended. For trekking, hiking shoes and sufficient water are advised.
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Where does it take place — Fatica e Faciola
Centro storico di Roccavaldina