The best MTB trails around Borghetto Di Vara
4.4
(687)
4,256
riders
111
rides
Mountain biking around Borghetto Di Vara offers diverse terrain within the Val di Vara, known as Italy's first "organic district." The region features extensive green areas, mixed deciduous forests, and rocky walls, fed by the Vara River. An ancient network of roads and mule tracks, many dating back to Roman times, now serve as mountain bike trails, connecting villages and offering historical exploration. The mountainous landscape provides both challenging climbs and scenic descents, with views stretching from inland mountains towards…
Last updated: August 23, 2026
5.0
(5)
37
riders
40.0km
04:01
1,350m
1,350m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.2
(5)
20
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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4.0
(2)
10
riders
41.8km
03:59
1,260m
1,260m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
45.6km
03:26
950m
950m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
43.2km
03:57
1,210m
1,210m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Levanto Castle was a defensive building located between Salita San Giorgio and Salita al Castello in the southern part of the historic center of Levanto, in the province of La Spezia. The site is part of the town's ancient walls. HISTORY: According to some historical sources, the existence of a defensive building in the then Levanto village was documented and confirmed as early as 1165, during the Malaspina rule in the area. Around the 13th century, a document attests to its presence under the name "Castello di Monale." The current building, however, dates back to the rule of the Republic of Genoa, and therefore to the second half of the 16th century[1], perhaps a reconstruction from scratch on the site of the pre-existing medieval castle; the reconstruction of the town's old walls is documented. With the creation of the Captaincy of Levanto in 1637, it served as the temporary seat of the Captain and, subsequently, as a prison until the fall of the Genoese Republic under Napoleonic rule in 1797. In the second half of the 19th century, it was sold to the state and, after conservative restoration between the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, it remains privately owned today. SOURCE: https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castello_di_Levanto
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Good driving in the tunnel it is cold
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Very nice path with a great view of the bay.
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Once you arrive you can take the lift to go up or down, the only problem is that if you have an ebike l or xl with 29 you have to keep it vertical with my xl I did it 😅
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White road that connects the Val di Vara with the AV5T above the Levanto valley. Very panoramic, it goes up but the slopes are never too challenging. The ground is compact and can be done with gravel or touring bikes
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Interesting how the beautiful panoramic path from Levanto disappears into the mountain
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Overlooking the city, to the south of the town, connected on one side to the church of S. Andrea and on the other to the small city port, along two splendid walks, stands the castle of Levanto, of which there is evidence thanks to an initial document dating back to 1165, when the building belonged to the Malaspina family. Further documentary confirmation of the construction, there called the castle of Monale, dates back to the following century. The current appearance of the fortification dates back to the second half of the 16th century, most likely the work of the Genoese; in this period the ancient walls were also renovated, still accessible today in some sections. When, in 1637, the headquarters of the Captaincy of the Republic of Genoa was placed in Levanto, the castle became the residence of the Captain; subsequently used as a prison, it fell into disuse after the capitulation of the Genoese Republic itself in 1797. During the 19th century, the public domain ceded it to private individuals - to whom it still belongs - while the various renovation cycles that brought it to its current shape date back to between the 19th and 20th centuries. Architecturally simple, the fortification consists of a circular-based tower and four quadrangular-shaped walls. North-east façadeThe external patrol walkways, embellished with Ghibelline-style battlements in the tower part and Guelph-style battlements in the body part, are supported by round brick arches based on corbels in sandstone typical of the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Borghetto Di Vara?
The terrain around Borghetto Di Vara is highly varied, offering a mix of experiences. You'll find extensive green areas, mixed deciduous forests, and rocky sections, often following ancient mule tracks and roads. Many routes feature both challenging climbs and scenic descents, with options ranging from dirt and gravel roads to more technical singletracks. The region's mountainous landscape provides diverse riding surfaces.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Borghetto Di Vara?
Yes, Borghetto Di Vara offers trails suitable for less experienced riders. While many routes are challenging, there are approximately 11 easy-rated mountain bike tours available. These often utilize less technical dirt or asphalt roads, allowing for a more relaxed introduction to the region's beautiful landscapes.
What are some challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Borghetto Di Vara has numerous difficult routes. One such option is the View of Bonassola – View over Levanto loop from Dosso, which covers 42.9 km with significant elevation changes. Another demanding route is the Bramapane Junction – View of the Cinque Terre Coast loop from Pignone, a 28.4 km trail offering coastal views.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the area?
Yes, many mountain bike trails around Borghetto Di Vara are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example of a moderate circular route is Monte Beverone – giro ad anello da Beverino Castello, which is 25.5 km long. For a more difficult option, consider the Deiva Marina Beach – Chiesa di Piazza loop from Mattarana, spanning 35.2 km.
What kind of views can I expect on the mountain bike trails?
The trails around Borghetto Di Vara offer a variety of scenic views. You can expect panoramas stretching from the inland mountains towards the sea, especially on routes that venture closer to the coast or higher elevations. The Val di Vara itself provides extensive green areas, lush forests, and views of the Vara River, while some trails offer glimpses of the dramatic Cinque Terre coastline.
What are the best times of year to go mountain biking in Borghetto Di Vara?
The Val di Vara, with its mild Mediterranean climate, generally offers good conditions for mountain biking for much of the year. Spring and autumn are often ideal, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery. Summer can be warm, especially at lower elevations, so early morning or late afternoon rides are preferable. Winter riding is possible, but some higher trails might be affected by weather conditions.
Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest along the mountain bike routes?
Yes, the region's ancient trail networks, many dating back to Roman times, often lead past historical sites. You might encounter ruins of old mills, ancient farmhouses, and deconsecrated churches. Additionally, the area is rich in natural landmarks. You can find several mountain passes like Bracco Pass or Mola Pass (650 m), and peaks such as Monte Rossola Summit Cross, offering great viewpoints.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Borghetto Di Vara?
The mountain bike trails around Borghetto Di Vara are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 600 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained ancient trail networks, and the opportunity to explore both the green Val di Vara and coastal views. Over 4000 mountain bikers have used komoot to discover the area's varied terrain.
Is Borghetto Di Vara a good base for exploring the Cinque Terre by mountain bike?
Borghetto Di Vara serves as an excellent inland base for accessing the broader Ligurian region, including the Cinque Terre. While the Cinque Terre itself has challenging routes, Borghetto Di Vara's location in the Val di Vara provides a contrasting experience with its lush valleys and ancient trails. You can embark on longer routes that connect the Val di Vara to the Cinque Terre, offering a blend of dense woods and coastal scenery.
Are there facilities for mountain bikers in the Val di Vara region?
Yes, the Val di Vara region shows a commitment to mountain biking. The Tavarone Sports Centre, located within the valley, features a permanent Mountain Bike (MTB) circuit, providing dedicated infrastructure for cyclists. This indicates that the broader area is supportive of mountain biking and offers facilities for riders.
How many mountain bike trails are available around Borghetto Di Vara?
There are over 100 mountain bike trails available around Borghetto Di Vara, catering to a wide range of skill levels. This includes approximately 11 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 74 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to advanced riders.
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