Salita Pantani Time Trial

A time trial at the foot of the volcano

The Salita Pantani Time Trial is a competitive cycling race held in Biancavilla, in the province of Catania, on the southwestern side of Mount Etna. The race takes place along what is considered the longest climb of the Etna Cycling Park: approximately twenty kilometers of continuous ascent that starts from the Vigne di Biancavilla, near the Beauty Garden restaurant, and winds its way up toward the volcanic heights. Athletes start at regular intervals, one after another, challenging both the clock and the steep gradients alone.

In memory of Marco Pantani

The event is named in honor of Marco Pantani, the Italian climber who inspired generations of cycling fans. This is no coincidence: cycling holds a special meaning for Biancavilla, which once hosted a memorable stage of the Giro d'Italia. The time trial carries on this legacy, turning the climb toward Mount Etna into a natural stage for those who love the challenge of great mountain passes.

A festival that engages the community

More than just a race, the Salita Pantani is a true celebration of sport that brings life to Biancavilla and the surrounding Etna area. The competition is surrounded by initiatives for young people, road safety education, photography exhibitions, and meetings with cycling champions. The event attracts athletes from all over Italy and has seen the participation of legendary figures in the sport, a testament to the prestige the race is building with every edition.

The Etna Cycling Park

The time trial is part of the Etna Cycling Park circuit, a network of routes that showcases the volcano's roads as a premier destination for cycle tourism and competitive cycling. Riding the Salita Pantani means testing yourself against a unique landscape of vineyards, lava flows, and panoramic views stretching over the plains of Catania, in a setting that blends sport, nature, and the identity of the Sicilian territory.