The best cycling routes around Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro

There are over 80 touring cycling routes available in Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro, catering to various skill levels. The majority of these, around 68, are classified as difficult, with 16 moderate and 2 easy options.

The ideal months for touring cycling, especially for routes like the Giro del Marguareis, are June and September. During these periods, the weather is generally favorable, and you can experience the full beauty of the diverse landscapes, from silver fir forests to vast grassy pastures and karstic plateaus.

While many routes are challenging, there are a couple of easier touring cycling options available. For families looking for a less strenuous ride, consider exploring the lower forest paths or areas around Certosa di Pesio, which offer gentler terrain. Always check the route details for elevation and distance to ensure it suits your family's abilities.

The park offers a highly varied terrain. You'll find everything from vast forests at lower altitudes to expansive pastures and rocky, high-altitude environments. The region is defined by the Marguareis Massif and extensive karstic systems, meaning you can expect both challenging climbs and unique geological features. Routes like the Charterhouse of St. Mary – Pilone dell'Olocco loop from Certosa di Pesio feature significant elevation gain through the valley.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A well-known example is the Pesio Charterhouse – Pian delle Gorre loop from Certosa di Pesio, which explores the natural features and forests around Pian delle Gorre. Another is the Charterhouse of St. Mary – Pian delle Gorre loop from San Bartolomeo, a moderate trail through the Pesio Valley.

The park is rich in natural beauty and unique geological formations. You can encounter spectacular underground river resurgences like the Pis del Pesio Waterfalls, as well as other waterfalls such as Saut Waterfalls and Waterfall Gias Fontana. The karstic landscape also features dolines and expansive white, almost lunar rocks. You might also pass through impressive formations like Porta Sestrera or Gola delle Fascette.

Absolutely. The historic Certosa di Pesio (Charterhouse of Pesio), founded in 1173, is a significant cultural landmark in the Alta Valle Pesio and a common starting point for many routes, including the Charterhouse of St. Mary – Pilone dell'Olocco loop. You can also find museums in nearby towns like Ormea and Chiusa Pesio, offering insights into local traditions and history.

The routes in Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 120 reviews. Touring cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to high-altitude pastures, and the challenging yet rewarding nature of the trails.

Yes, the park features refuges such as Rifugio Don Barbera, Rifugio Garelli, and Rifugio di Pian delle Gorre. These provide accommodation and support, with some even offering e-bike charging stations. These refuges and nearby villages are good places to find refreshments and meals.

The Alta Via del Sale is a famous high-altitude military dirt road that offers spectacular views between the Mediterranean and the peaks of the Ligurian Alps. Another route, the Colle Campanino – Route du Sel loop from Ùpega, also provides access to high-altitude sections with panoramic vistas.

Yes, the park is particularly well-suited for experienced cyclists. The Ciclovia del Duca, following the former military road 109, is an extraordinary route for 'cicloalpinisti' (alpine cyclists), featuring 15 km of riding with a 1400-meter elevation gain. Many of the park's 68 difficult routes, such as the extensive Pian delle Gorre – Vicoforte Sanctuary loop from Villaggio Ardua, offer substantial distances and elevation changes.

The Parco naturale della Alta Valle Pesio e Tanaro is a biodiversity hotspot. While cycling, you might encounter diverse fauna, including chamois, deer, roe deer, and various bird species like eagles and black grouse. The park also has a stable wolf population. Keep an eye out, especially in quieter areas and during dawn or dusk.