The best cycling routes around Lake Cingino
4.9
(17)
156
riders
4
rides
Touring cycling around Lake Cingino offers routes through dramatic alpine landscapes in Italy's Piedmont region. The area is characterized by high elevations, steep terrain, and larch forests, with clear creeks and waterfalls. Cyclists can expect challenging climbs and scenic pathways that traverse mountain vistas and high-altitude lakes, including the reservoir itself. The Cingino Dam, a notable feature, is known for alpine ibex scaling its face.
Best touring cycling routes around Lake Cingino
- The most popular touring cycling route is Church…
Last updated: October 8, 2026
5.0
(2)
31
riders
10.0km
00:54
380m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
8.03km
00:47
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
12.0km
01:18
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
6.52km
00:29
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
38
riders
27.4km
02:06
720m
720m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Zermeiggern Chapel also serves as a memorial site where those who died in the Mattmark disaster are commemorated.
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From the dam you have a great view of the Saas Valley and the Valais mountains.
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Super beautiful view ☺️ , also of the many waterfalls.
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Surrounded by high alpine tranquility and glacial peaks, the turquoise-blue Mattmarksee lies at your feet. This artificial lake is located at over 2,000 meters in the farthest reaches of the Saas Valley. It stores meltwater and supplies the region with renewable energy.
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Saint John the Baptist (San Giovanni Battista), to whom this church was dedicated, is - like Saint Joseph - a man on the threshold of the Old and New Testaments. His parents are Zacharias and Elizabeth. After the announcement of the Incarnation of God through them, the Mother of God visits her relative Elizabeth, who will give birth to a son in old age, namely John the Baptist. He is half a year older than Jesus and is considered his forerunner/pioneer. He lives in the desert, preaches repentance from sins to the Jewish population and baptizes them in the Jordan. Jesus also comes there to be baptized, and is filled with the Holy Spirit who descends upon him from heaven. The memorial day of San Giovanni Battista in the calendar of saints is June 24th, exactly half a year before 'Christmas Eve'.
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The houses in the villages of Pecetto Inferiore and Superiore, a hamlet of Macugnaga, are mostly in Walser style.
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Macugnaga is an alpine village located at the foot of the imposing eastern face of Monte Rosa. It was founded in the 13th century by the Walser, a people of German origin from the Swiss canton of Valais. Walser culture and traditions are still very much alive today in Macugnaga and are reflected in the architecture of the houses, in the traditional costumes worn by the women of the town on special occasions such as the San Bernardo fair and in the typical "Dorf", a small nucleus of houses dating back to the 13th century.
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Well preserved church, from the 17th century. Frescoes inside.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Lake Cingino?
Touring cycling around Lake Cingino involves diverse and often challenging terrain. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, traversing through mountainous landscapes, extensive hills, and some plains. Routes often lead through larch forests, clear creeks, and past waterfalls, offering a true alpine experience in Italy's Piedmont region.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there is an easy touring cycling route available. The Around the Mattmarksee - loop is an 8 km (5 miles) path that offers scenic views of the high-altitude lake scenery and is often completed in under an hour, making it suitable for a more relaxed ride.
What are the most challenging touring cycling routes in the Lake Cingino area?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Church of Crevoladossola – Domodossola Cycle Path loop from Macugnaga stand out. This difficult 97.1 km (60.3 miles) route connects alpine valleys with historic towns and involves substantial elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Borca di Macugnaga – Ponte Prea loop from Macugnaga, a 40 km (24.9 miles) difficult trail.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while cycling near Lake Cingino?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, including Monte Rosa. A unique spectacle is the Alpine ibex scaling the nearly vertical face of the Cingino Dam to lick salt from its stones. The Troncone Valley, leading to the lake, features beautiful waterfalls and clearings. Other nearby natural attractions include Lake Antrona, Lake Campiccioli, and Lake dei Cavalli.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Lake Cingino?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For an easier option, consider the Around the Mattmarksee - loop. More challenging circular routes include the Around Macugnaga - loop tour and the extensive Church of Crevoladossola – Domodossola Cycle Path loop from Macugnaga.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Lake Cingino?
The touring cycling routes around Lake Cingino are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 17 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic alpine landscapes, the challenging climbs, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in stunning scenery and unique wildlife encounters.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Lake Cingino?
Given the high-altitude setting and mountainous terrain, the best time for touring cycling around Lake Cingino is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This avoids snow and ice, ensuring safer and more enjoyable conditions on the trails.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer views of the Cingino Dam and its famous ibex?
While specific touring cycling routes might not go directly to the dam's face, many routes in the area offer panoramic views of the surrounding Alps where the dam is situated. The dam itself is a notable feature in the landscape, and the ibex are a unique wildlife observation point. You can learn more about the dam's unique wildlife at Atlas Obscura.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Lake Cingino area?
There are several dedicated touring cycling routes around Lake Cingino, offering options for various skill levels. Currently, you can find four distinct routes, ranging from easy loops to difficult multi-hour rides.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes in this region?
The duration of touring cycling routes around Lake Cingino varies significantly based on difficulty and distance. Easy loops like the Around the Mattmarksee - loop can be completed in under an hour, while more challenging routes such as the Church of Crevoladossola – Domodossola Cycle Path loop from Macugnaga can take over 6 hours.
Most popular routes around Lake Cingino
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