4.4
(526)
3,002
riders
111
rides
Gravel biking around Arconate offers routes that combine natural landscapes with historical points of interest in Lombardy, Italy. The area is characterized by the Villoresi Canal, which provides numerous cycle paths, some featuring unpaved sections suitable for gravel bikes. Natural oases like the WWF Oasis of Vanzago and Il Caloggio di Bollate contribute to the tranquil environment. While many routes are relatively flat, some segments offer varied terrain for different skill levels.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.5
(23)
280
riders
60.2km
03:49
430m
430m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(30)
152
riders
65.3km
04:04
350m
350m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.9
(11)
133
riders
68.8km
04:05
230m
230m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(10)
59
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
34
riders
64.4km
03:58
370m
370m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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The Naviglio Grande in Turbigo represents the operational starting point of the oldest navigable canal in Europe. Although the waters are historically diverted from the Ticino river at Tornavento, it is precisely in Turbigo that the watercourse becomes the continuation of the Industrial Canal and enters the heart of its 50-kilometer route towards the Darsena of Milan.
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The Villoresi Canal begins at the Panperduto Dam, a historic and imposing hydraulic junction located in the municipality of Somma Lombardo (VA), where the canal draws its waters from the Ticino river.
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The unique name "Panperduto" derives mainly from the local dialect and ancient stories related to river navigation before the construction of the dam. In the past, commercial barges carrying goods or stones often collided with the rapids and rocky riverbeds of this stretch of the river, ending up capsizing and losing their entire cargo. This meant the loss of the entire day's work and the earnings needed to buy food, hence the saying "we lost the bread" (hence Panperduto).
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La Diga del Panperduto (or rather, the Dighe del Panperduto) is one of Lombardy's most important and fascinating hydraulic junctions, located on the Ticino river in the municipality of Somma Lombardo, in the province of Varese. This monumental complex of hydraulic engineering dates back to the late 19th century (inaugurated in 1884) and mainly serves to divert the waters of the Ticino to feed two fundamental artificial canals: Villoresi Canal: used for irrigation purposes, guaranteeing water for over 100,000 hectares of agricultural land in the Po Valley. Industrial Canal: fundamental for the production of hydroelectric energy through various power plants in the area.
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very cute
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Naviglio Grande cycle path highly recommended
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It is one of the oldest hydroelectric power plants in Italy: it was officially inaugurated on October 9, 1901, in the presence of the King of Italy Vittorio Emanuele III. Between 1935 and 1938, it was completely modernized, based on a project by architect Giovanni Muzio - an exponent of the so-called Novecento artistic movement - also increasing the power to 31.5 MW. The power plant, of significant historical value, represents the perfect union between past and future and is an important element for energy production using flowing water technology.
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There are over 145 gravel bike trails around Arconate, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find routes varying from easy to difficult, with many featuring segments suitable for gravel bikes.
Gravel biking around Arconate offers a mix of terrain. While many routes feature paved surfaces, you'll also find unpaved sections, particularly along the Villoresi Canal. These paths often combine natural beauty with historical points of interest, providing a varied and engaging ride.
The gravel bike trails around Arconate are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 2,600 gravel bikers have explored the area, often praising the scenic canal paths and the blend of natural and historical sights.
You can explore several natural oases near Arconate. The Villoresi Canal itself offers numerous cycle paths along its banks. Additionally, the nearby WWF Oasis of Vanzago is a 200-hectare area dedicated to preserving woods and animals, and Il Caloggio di Bollate is another natural oasis near the Nirone River. While cycling, you might encounter highlights like Trail in the Valle del Ticino park.
The routes around Arconate often pass by interesting historical sites. You might encounter picturesque bridges like the Boffalora Bridge on the Naviglio or the Castelletto Bridge on the Naviglio Grande. The 13th-century Church of Saint Mary in Binda, known for its early sixteenth-century frescoes, is also a notable stop. The renovated Castle of Legnano is another significant local attraction.
Yes, many sections of the Villoresi Canal cycle paths are relatively easy and away from traffic, making them suitable for family rides. These paths often provide a pleasant and safe environment for cyclists of varying ages and skill levels.
Generally, cycling paths along the Villoresi Canal and in natural areas like the WWF Oasis of Vanzago are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash and you adhere to local regulations regarding pet waste. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain.
Parking is typically available in and around Arconate, particularly near access points to the Villoresi Canal cycle paths. Specific parking areas can often be found in towns like Turbigo or Vanzaghello, which serve as starting points for popular routes such as the Panperduto Dam loop from Turbigo.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Arconate are designed as loops. For example, the Villoresi Cycle Path loop from Busto Garolfo and the Villoresi Cycle Path loop from Arconate are popular circular options that allow you to start and end in the same location.
The best time for gravel biking in Arconate, and Lombardy in general, is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, making for comfortable riding conditions. Summer can be hot, while winter might bring colder temperatures and less predictable weather.
Yes, you can find cafes, restaurants, and pubs in the towns and villages situated along the Villoresi Canal cycle path. These establishments offer convenient stops for refreshments and meals during your ride, allowing you to experience local cuisine.
For a more challenging ride, consider the Alzaia Canale Villoresi Road loop from Vanzaghello-Magnago. This route is rated as difficult, covering 31 miles (49.9 km) and featuring segments of unpaved surfaces along the Alzaia Canale Villoresi.
Yes, for a longer adventure, the Panperduto Dam loop from Busto Arsizio Nord is a difficult route spanning nearly 70 km (43.4 miles). This trail offers significant distance and elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced gravel bikers looking for an extended ride.


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