The best gravel rides around San Giorio Di Susa

There are over a dozen gravel bike trails around San Giorio di Susa, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes utilize the region's authentic white roads and former military roads, providing varied terrain for cyclists.

The Val di Susa region, including San Giorio di Susa, is known for its extensive network of authentic white roads and former military roads, often referred to as 'Vie Storiche di Montagna'. You'll encounter varied terrain, from dense woodlands and green forests to high Alpine environments with significant elevation changes, especially within the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park. These routes focus on unpaved surfaces, offering a distinct gravel cycling experience away from asphalt.

While many routes offer a challenge, there are options suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride. For example, the Via Francigena Along the Canal – San Giorio loop from Bruzolo is a moderate 32.9 km path with manageable elevation, following the historic Via Francigena.

Experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge will find several demanding routes. The Small Lake of Avigliana – Lakes of Avigliana loop from Bussoleno is a difficult 131.1 km path exploring the scenic Lakes of Avigliana with substantial elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Colle dell'Assietta – Blegier Pass loop from Grange, a 50.8 km trail leading through high Alpine passes.

The region is rich in both historical and natural attractions. You can encounter medieval castles like the Bertrandi lords' castle in San Giorio, ancient chapels with frescoes in hamlets like Pognant, and numerous votive pillars and fountains. Natural features include the diverse landscapes of the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park with its meadows, fir forests, and small lakes. Specific highlights you might pass include the Madonna della Neve Chapel and Col Bione Fountain or the challenging Colle delle Finestre.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the Avigliana–Condove Cycle Path – Via Francigena Along the Canal loop from Bussoleno is a popular circular route following the historic Via Francigena. Another option is the Susa's main square – Susa loop from Bussoleno, which offers a circular tour around the historic town of Susa.

The Val di Susa region is generally excellent for outdoor sports from spring through autumn. The warmer months offer the best conditions for exploring the higher Alpine passes and enjoying the full network of trails. Autumn is particularly scenic with the chestnut woods, celebrated during the Feast of the Brown gastronomic festival in October.

The gravel biking routes around San Giorio di Susa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 500 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the authentic white roads and the scenic beauty of the Val di Susa and Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park.

Yes, the region offers various options for accommodation and dining. You can find mountain huts like the Amprimo Mountain Hut or Toesca Hut along some trails, which often serve typical Piedmontese cuisine. The charming hamlets and towns like San Giorio di Susa itself also provide cafes, restaurants, and lodging options for cyclists.

Absolutely! The Val di Susa is a hub for various outdoor sports. Beyond gravel biking, you can enjoy hiking and trekking, with routes like the Certose Circuit in the Orsiera–Rocciavrè Natural Park. The broader area also offers road biking, mountain biking, climbing, Tibetan bridges, adventure parks, and rafting on the Dora Riparia, making it a versatile destination for adventure enthusiasts.

While some routes are challenging, the extensive network of trails includes options suitable for families. Look for shorter, less elevated loops, particularly those that follow canals or flatter sections of the Via Francigena, which offer a more relaxed experience for all ages.