Seeing as entry to Finale’s Enduro World Series round goes live at 5CET (That’s 4PM GMT) today (along with the equally ace sounding Zona Zero round), we figured we should share this with everyone.
After entering the EWS? Fingers at the ready and get hitting F5Â they’re both going to go in the blink of an eye.
But like puppies aren’t just for Christmas, Finale’s not just for enduro racing, it’s a definitive must ride destination. A small seaside town surrounded by a network of amazing trails and a Mediterranean climate that suits near year round riding. If it’s not somewhere that’s appeared on your radar, here’s five reasons why we think it should…
1. Â Trails
Finale isn’t short of trails. There’s a good mix of loamy flow and beautifully carved downhill tracks off the top of the now deserted ‘Nato base’, ancient historical limestone cobbled tracks connecting communities and their churches, and a whole network of clifftop trails out by the location of the 24 hours of Finale campsite.
In a week you can ride enclosed in woodland, or head out to the coast to ride overlooking the sea below.
2. Good Food
You’re in Italy, you aren’t going to suffer from a bad diet. It’s relatively cheap to eat here, a pizza will set you back about eight euros. We’d recommend you track down some of the local seafood though especially the salted and fried sardines, and the pesto gnocchi is amazing too.
3. The Beach
If the good riding wasn’t enough, the fact you can end a ride on the beach is a definite bonus. Drop down from the mountains behind the town, through the old walled city and roll out onto the sand to finish. Celebratory gelato all round, a quick sunbathe and a swim in the sea. What’s not to like?
4. Coffee
Italian culture doesn’t revolve solely around good food, there’s good coffee too. And being a staple of the italian diet it’s nice and cheap, one euro an espresso? We’ll take that. Just don’t order a cappuccino after eleven, it’s a morning drink and there are rules you know?
5. THE TRAILS
Seriously. We’re repeating this point because we believe it’s one of the best places in Europe to ride. Forget the Alps trip next year and head a little bit further south, it’s well worth it.
Still not sure? Here’s Dave’s snapshots of Stage Three of the Enduro World Series; an immense bit of riding with more than it’s fair share of history and culture. It’s a trail with a good mix of flow, technical challenge and varied terrain.
Finale Outdoor is a good place to start your planning
Finale Ligure Bike Resort is another
Entries for Finale Enduro World Series go live at 5PM
That stone look greasy!
Treacherous when wet – all polished Limestone!
It’s fine if you’re straight lining, turning was a bit more vague ;o)
Been a few years (5??) since we were last there… going back in July cant wait…
Cafe Latte is also a morning drink as Mrs S discovered in Limone at 9pm!