The best traffic-free bike rides around Colle del Lys Natural Park

There are 5 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes listed in this guide for Colle del Lys Natural Park. All of them are rated as moderate difficulty, offering a good balance of challenge and accessibility for road cyclists.

All the no traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are rated as moderate. While the Colle del Lys pass itself involves a significant climb, these routes are designed to be manageable for cyclists with some experience, offering rewarding ascents and scenic descents.

Many routes offer spectacular panoramic views. From the summit of Lys Pass, you can see across the northern plains of Turin, towards the Cuneo area, and even the distant Maritime Alps. Vistas of the Lanzo and Viù valleys, with landmarks like Col San Giovanni and Mount Civrari, are also common along the way.

Yes, the area is rich in history. The Colle del Lys Resistance Ecomuseum commemorates the Resistance during World War II. You can also visit the significant Sanctuary of Madonna della Bassa, a popular pilgrimage destination, adding cultural interest to your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 128 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the Colle del Lys pass, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the sense of achievement upon reaching the summit, all while enjoying the tranquility of low-traffic roads.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Lys Pass loop from Acquarossa is a 28 km route with over 700 meters of elevation gain. Another option is the Lys Pass loop from Rubiana, which is shorter at 14.5 km with over 500 meters of climbing.

At the summit of Colle del Lys, there is a refuge and bar. This provides a convenient spot to rest, refuel with traditional cuisine, and enjoy the panoramic views after your climb.

You'll cycle through diverse forest ecosystems, including larch woods, beech forests, and alder thickets. The routes offer glimpses of the natural beauty of the Graian Alps, with the road surface to Colle del Lys being well-maintained, partly due to its inclusion in a Giro d'Italia stage.

While all routes are rated moderate, some have less overall elevation gain. The Lago Grande di Avigliana – Lakes of Avigliana loop from Villar Dora, for instance, covers 22.9 km with only 127 meters of elevation gain, offering a more relaxed experience around the scenic lakes.

The best time for road cycling in Colle del Lys Natural Park is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the mountain passes are clear of snow, offering optimal conditions for enjoying the routes and panoramic views.

Yes, some routes venture further afield. The Church of San Martino, Rivoli – Spider-Man sculpture loop from Turin is a longer 39.8 km route that starts from Turin and explores areas with less elevation, offering a different perspective of the region.