The best traffic-free bike rides in Riserva Naturale Dell'Alpe Della Luna

There are over a dozen dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Riserva Naturale Dell'Alpe Della Luna, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. This guide features 14 such routes, ensuring a diverse selection for your adventure.

The trails in Riserva Naturale Dell'Alpe Della Luna feature a diverse and wild natural environment. You'll encounter expansive woodlands, varied terrain, and a well-developed network of forest roads and trails. Expect challenging gravel sections, particularly on routes leading to higher elevations, with some areas featuring marl and sandstone blocks.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, there is at least one easy no-traffic gravel bike trail available. For a more relaxed experience, consider routes that follow river paths or lower elevations, such as the Cycle path along the Selci stream – B&B Il Biribino loop from Sansepolcro, which offers a moderate challenge with less elevation gain.

The reserve is rich in natural beauty. You can ride towards the spectacular Ripa della Luna Viewpoint, a 200-meter-high rocky wall on Monte dei Frati (1453 m), offering breathtaking panoramic views. The area also boasts abundant water features, including picturesque waterfalls like those found on the San Sepolcro – Waterfalls of the Afra Stream loop from San Giustino.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in the reserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Fraccano–Vaschi Trail – Bridge over the Tiber loop from Sansepolcro and the Cycle path along the Selci stream – Tiber Cycle Path loop from San Giustino.

The reserve is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly stunning when the extensive beech and mixed deciduous forests transform with vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange. Spring also offers pleasant temperatures and the bloom of wild orchids. Summers can be warm, while winters may bring snow to higher elevations, making some trails more challenging.

Yes, within the reserve, you can find refuges that offer a place to rest. Consider stopping at the Pian della Capanna Forest Refuge or the Paolo Massi Shelter, especially on longer routes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the stunning natural landscapes, and the sense of wild adventure offered by the diverse terrain and dense woodlands.

Riserva Naturale Dell'Alpe Della Luna is generally dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near streams. Be mindful of other trail users and ensure your dog is well-behaved. Always carry water for your pet, particularly on longer rides.

Many routes in the reserve are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and technical sections. For example, the Vocabolo Colcello – Fraccano–Vaschi Trail loop from San Giustino involves substantial climbing. Riders should be prepared for varied surfaces, including loose gravel, forest roads, and potentially rocky paths, especially when ascending to viewpoints like Monte dei Frati.

Access to the more remote parts of Riserva Naturale Dell'Alpe Della Luna is primarily by car. While some towns near the reserve, like Sansepolcro or San Giustino, may have limited public transport connections, reaching specific trailheads within the reserve often requires private transportation. It's best to plan your route and parking in advance.

Parking is typically available in the towns bordering the reserve, such as Sansepolcro or San Giustino, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Look for designated parking areas near the trailheads or in the villages. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.