01 ELBRUS
At 5,642 metres, Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe and the second peak of the “7 Summits Solo Project”. Located in the middle of the rugged Caucasus Mountains, the mountain is covered with snow and ice all year-round. Strong gusts of wind make the climb quite a challenge. The most dangerous aspect of climbing Mount Elbrus is the weather, as sudden storms can occur, bringing extreme cold and wind. Although its maximum altitude is not very high compared to other mountains around the globe, this area is called the “little Himalayas” because of its extraordinary landscapes and very isolated mountains that are difficult to climb.

02 SOCHI
From this thriving Russian city on the Black Sea, Danilo starts his journey back to Italy by bicycle. Its particular geographical position makes it unique compared to most other Russian cities and regions. The mitigating action of the waters of the Black Sea and the nearby imposing Caucasus Mountains which protect the city from the northern currents, provide mild winters, you can even see tea plantations and vineyards.

04 SIMFEROPOL
The city was founded by Crimean Tatars in the 16th century under the name of Aqmescit (White Mosque). It will be the first important Ukrainian city he will pass through on this trip. Its population is predominantly Russian as it is located on the coast of the Black Sea and almost on the border with Russia. One of the most fascinating features of the city is the imposing mosque that rises in the center of the old town.

06 ODESSA
It is the fourth largest and most populous city in Ukraine and an important turning point in my journey. This important thriving city in the south of Ukraine will allow him to fully update his online diary. From this first important “turning point”, he will head towards the border with Romania.

07 TULCEA
It is the first important Romanian city on his route. Tulcea is located where the Danube makes its last stop before flowing into the Black Sea. The Lipovani Russian and Turkish minorities living there give the city a multiethnic feel. Before reaching Tulcea, he will also cross the beautiful and marshy area of the Danube Delta, declared a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

10 ORADEA
Oradea is the last Romanian city before the border with Hungary. It is an important city in northwestern Romania and the capital of the district of Bihor. It is located in the well-known region of Transylvanian, which I will cross and attempt to survive in what many call Europe’s “last wilderness”. The entire Transylvanian region, as well as the entire central region of Romania, is covered in dense vegetation, where wolf packs and lone bears roam freely. A place full of enchanting castles, where fairy tales and legends abound.

12 LUBJANA
This city is considered the cultural, scientific, economic, political, and administrative center of Slovenia. It will be an impportant turning point in my trip. I’ll be in the heart of Slovenia, the last state I’ll cross before reaching my final destination. In these lands, I will face several challenges. The terrain is rough and difficult. Mountains, hills, prairies, and vast forests cover these areas, and after leaving behind the long Hungarian plains, it will not be easy to find myself here in the middle of winter amidst constant hill climbs and descents event though I am only a few kilometers from the destination.

14 PORDENONE
My hometown and therefore the most important of all for me. The province that has helped me for years by allowing me to face these important journeys. My main goal is to make this beautiful province known in the world. Therefore, its main square will be the final destination for me and for this trip. The arrival is scheduled for December 23, unless changes of route.