Gran Fondo Maratona del Matesannio

The Matesannio Marathon is a 106 km amateur cycling medio fondo starting in Telese Terme, Campania, typically held in late May. This route crosses the Matese region, featuring 2,050 meters of elevation gain and passing through the Parco Nazionale del Matese. ASD MDM, the organizing body, presents it as a challenge for cyclists seeking a demanding event rather than a casual ride. The route begins with a gradual section towards San Salvatore Telesino. It then continues through towns such as San Lorenzello, Faicchio, Gioia Sannitica, San Potito Sannitico, and Piedimonte Matese before the primary ascent. The Bocca della Selva climb serves as the race's defining section: approximately 18 km at a consistent 5-6% gradient, with brief steeper portions of 7-8%. A flatter, downhill segment follows after Miralago, preceding another 7 km to Sella Perrone and the summit finish at Bocca della Selva. The descent from the summit is on a wide road, requiring both climbing ability and control.