Da Pavia alla Certosa e al ponte di barche – giro ad anello

Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure along the "Da Pavia alla Certosa e al ponte di barche – giro ad anello" trail, a 39.1-mile (63.0 km) loop that offers picturesque views as it traces the historic Naviglio Pavese. You will encounter a mix of paved surfaces and compact dirt or gravel sections, with gentle ups and downs and small bridges. The route features about 509 feet (155 metres) of elevation gain, and you can expect to complete it in around 4 hours and 27 minutes, passing charming towns and the majestic Certosa di Pavia along the way. The environment is rich with greenery and abundant water features, making for a refreshing ride.

This popular cycling route is generally considered accessible, making it a great day trip option, especially if you are coming from Milan. While the trail is mostly simple and flat, its unpaved sections contribute to its moderate rating for mountain bikes. For the best experience, touring bicycles with suitable tires are recommended over road bikes due to the gravel portions. You will find the trail well-suited for less experienced cyclists and families looking for a scenic outing.

The trail offers a unique journey through the history and culture of the region, connecting significant sites in Pavia and the Certosa. A major highlight is the magnificent Certosa di Pavia, a spectacular Gothic and Renaissance monastery that is free to visit. You will also see historical locks along the Naviglio Pavese, like those at Torre del Mangano, and pass through the city of Pavia itself, where you can spot the Castello Visconteo and the iconic Ponte Coperto over the Ticino river. This route is part of a larger network of cycling paths in the Pavia area, a key hub for various pilgrimage and cycling routes.