The best traffic-free bike rides around Poirino

Poirino and its surrounding area offer a wide selection of traffic-free gravel biking opportunities. You'll find over 80 routes, ranging from easy to difficult, perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Pianalto area.

The region around Poirino, part of Piedmont, is a paradise for gravel bikers due to its varied terrain. Expect a mix of dirt roads, rolling green hills, and wooded sections. While some routes might include paved cycle tracks, many offer gravel deviations, providing the unpaved experience gravel riders seek. The landscapes include scenic views of the Turin hills and valleys.

Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there are options for easier rides. The cycle track connecting Poirino to Riva Presso Chieri, for instance, is mostly asphalted but includes a gravel deviation, making it accessible. For a moderate loop with less elevation, consider the Lake Arignano – Big Bench of Montaldo loop from Chieri, which is around 32 km long.

For those seeking a significant challenge, the area offers several difficult routes with substantial elevation gain. The Basilica of Saint John Bosco – View of Albugnano loop from Chieri is a demanding 98 km ride with over 1400 meters of ascent. Another challenging option is the Giant Bench – Lake Arignano loop from Chieri, covering nearly 80 km with over 800 meters of climbing.

The trails around Poirino offer a blend of natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter the impressive centuries-old chestnut tree, La Castagna Granda, or the Castagna Granda Monumental Chestnut Tree. Historically, you can explore sites like the medieval Pralormo Castle, known for its tulip exhibition, or the Romanesque Church of San Giorgio in Andezeno.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Poirino are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Giant Bench – Moncucco Castle loop from Chieri and the San Felice Chapel – Chapel of Our Lady of the Snow loop from Chieri, offering diverse distances and difficulties.

Piedmont generally offers excellent gravel biking conditions from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn provides vibrant colors. Summers can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable. Winter riding is possible, but check local weather conditions for snow or ice, especially on higher elevation sections.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Poirino, with an average score of 4.49 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems and historical sites away from main roads.

Many routes in the Turin hills provide excellent panoramic views. For instance, the Basilica of Saint John Bosco – View of Albugnano loop from Chieri is specifically named for its views, suggesting scenic overlooks along the way.

While some routes are quite challenging, the presence of dedicated cycle tracks and less technical gravel deviations makes parts of the area suitable for families. Look for routes described as 'easy' or 'moderate' and check the elevation profile. The asphalted cycle track towards Riva Presso Chieri, with its gravel option, could be a good starting point for family outings.

Many of the routes start from towns like Chieri, which typically offer public parking facilities. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check the individual route details on komoot, as local parking options can vary. Generally, smaller villages along the routes may also have limited parking available.