The opening stage stays west of Rome, starting in the flat coastal plain near Fiumicino. Canals, fields and pine trees shape the first kilometres as the route heads north and leaves the city traffic behind. Beyond Maccarese, the riding becomes more rural, then the road climbs gradually into the volcanic hills of the Sabatini range. Near Anguillara Sabazia, Lago di Bracciano opens into view, the day’s strongest landmark. Bracciano and Manziana follow before the final rise to Oriolo Romano, with woodland, old walls and quiet roads.
