There are two ways to reach the Miniera di Arenas: an easy route and a difficult one. We have already described the easy route (see the "Miniera di Arenas" tour). Here, then, is the variant that truly earns a "very difficult" rating.
It starts in Fluminimaggiore and approaches the Arenas area from the northwest. Even the ford crossing the Rio Pubusmu is no walk in the park: during the winter months, when the current is strong and the water deep, significant ground clearance and experience are required. Things get easier for a while after that; the track winds its way up through the forest, curve after curve, switchback after switchback. However, with every kilometer, it becomes narrower, steeper, and rougher. The hairpins certainly live up to their name—on one or two of them, you’ll need to reverse and maneuver to get around. Then comes the crux of the route: deep gravel, coarse scree, boulders, stone slabs, and deep longitudinal ruts. Some steps are up to 50 centimeters high. High ground clearance, a differential lock, and low-range gearing are essential for off-road vehicles. On an adventure motorcycle, pushing is inevitable; even in the saddle of a lightweight bike, this section is a challenge.
Once the Arenas facilities finally come into view, you might feel like you can catch your breath. Or perhaps not. The environmental destruction wrought here since the late 19th century is enough to leave you speechless. The landscape is scarred by spoil heaps and quarries from open-pit mining—wounds that nature will likely take millennia to heal.
The descent to the SS 126 is a much calmer affair. The wide track and decent gravel surface are kind to both rider and vehicle.
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