The best cycling routes around Parco Rile Tenore Olona
4.3
(1748)
18,842
riders
611
rides
Touring cycling around Parco Rile Tenore Olona offers diverse landscapes shaped by fluvio-glacial origins, featuring morainic plains and the river valleys of the Olona, Rile, and Tenore. The park is characterized by extensive wooded areas with Scots pine, oak, and chestnut, interspersed with open meadows. Cyclists can explore paths built upon historical railway lines and discover unique geological formations like the gonfolite along the Olona valley. This varied terrain provides a range of touring cycling routes suitable for different skill…
Last updated: April 21, 2026
4.5
(2)
24
riders
19.6km
01:13
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
riders
14.1km
01:17
160m
170m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.7
(6)
43
riders
16.1km
01:07
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
7
riders
17.8km
01:26
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
25.0km
02:04
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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You approach the route of the former Valmorea Railway, with its disused station and enter the cycle path that heads towards the real Gurone Dam, a structure 12 metres high above the river level and 156 metres long, built between 2004 and 2009 and capable of generating a reservoir of more than a million cubic metres. The construction was necessary because this stretch of the valley has always been subject to flooding from the Olona (around 70 have been recorded since the 15th century), such as the most recent ones in 1995 and 2002. The cycle path now climbs along its embankments with an almost linear route and a gradient of almost 12%, built in this way so as not to interfere with the structure of the dam and its hydraulic characteristics. Once you reach the top, be careful on the descent. After reaching the closest point to the river, you start following the railway again, of which you can see sections of tracks in the woods. Now on the right we have the Pedemontana motorway and you cycle in one of the tunnels created during its construction. You can now reach the small public garden equipped with a rack with e-bike charging and a self-repair kit or, keeping to the left at the roundabout and crossing the provincial road, you head south. We are in the Lozza plain, which you cross on the side of the railway embankment with a long straight stretch before arriving at a narrow peninsula formed on the left by the Olona and on the right by the Selvagna stream. After crossing the stream, the path goes to the side of the provincial road to enter Castiglione Olona. On the right, the railway system of the former station opens up, where you can still see some carriages. At the crossing, keep left to continue on the cycle path, while instead you will go to the right to reach the historic village.
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This cycle path connects the Swiss border with Castellanza, it develops between the Lanza Valley and the Olona Valley in a succession of natural environments, evidence of human work and truly surprising historical-architectural sites. The chosen direction, from North to South, allows you to travel downhill on the sections with greater slopes.
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Beautiful cycle path along the Olona river
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Beautiful cycle path along the Olona river
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park to visit on foot
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The Rile Tenore Olona park, often known by the acronym RTO, is a protected natural area that develops around the course of three waterways. It extends over about ten municipalities in the province of Varese and is affected by fluvio-glacial terraces.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Parco Rile Tenore Olona?
There are over 590 touring cycling routes available in Parco Rile Tenore Olona, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1800 reviews.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Parco Rile Tenore Olona offers over 110 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a leisurely ride is the Monastero di Torba loop from Castiglione Olona, an easy 9.6-mile (15.4 km) trail that explores the area around the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Torba. Another easy, scenic loop through mixed forests and meadows is the "Anello del Rile" mentioned in the region's characteristics.
What kind of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see while cycling?
The park is characterized by diverse landscapes, including expansive fluvio-glacial terraces, dense woodlands, and wide-open meadows. You'll cycle alongside the Olona river and the Rile and Tenore torrents. The woodlands feature typical Lombard flora such as Scots pine, common oak, and chestnut. Keep an eye out for unique geological formations like the Gonfolite, a rock formation over 10 million years old, protected within the "Gonfolite and Forre dell'Olona" Natural Monument.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks along the cycling routes?
Absolutely. The park is rich in historical and cultural attractions. You can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Monastery of Torba, or explore the Castelseprio Archaeological Park, which includes the Castrum and the Church of Santa Maria foris portas. The ancient village of Castiglione Olona, known for its Collegiata and Palazzo Branda Castiglioni, is also accessible via cycling paths.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the park?
Yes, many routes in Parco Rile Tenore Olona are designed as loops. For example, the Monastero di Torba loop from Castelseprio is a 9.2-mile (14.7 km) trail that leads through wooded areas and past historical sites. Another option is the Cairate Bridge – Castello di Orago loop from Castelseprio, an easy 14.1 km route.
Can I access the park's cycling routes using public transport?
The park's extensive network of cycle-pedestrian paths is integrated with larger cycling routes like the Olona Valley Cycle Path and the Ciclovia Olona Lura. While specific public transport connections directly to trailheads might vary, these larger networks often connect to towns with train or bus services, making it possible to reach the general area by public transport and then cycle into the park.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Parco Rile Tenore Olona?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery as the foliage changes or blooms. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it can get warm, especially in open areas. Winter cycling is possible, but some paths might be affected by weather conditions.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for more experienced touring cyclists, there are over 200 difficult routes. The Chiesa di Rovate – Rovate Trail loop from Castelseprio is a challenging 8.8-mile (14.1 km) path featuring varied terrain. The "Sentiero del Tenore" is also recommended for moderately experienced riders, involving some fords.
Are dogs allowed on the cycling trails in Parco Rile Tenore Olona?
Generally, dogs are welcome in Parco Rile Tenore Olona, but they should be kept on a leash, especially in protected areas and near wildlife. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to maintain the park's natural beauty for everyone.
What are some of the unique natural features I might encounter?
Beyond the Gonfolite, the park features significant wetland areas like Laghetto Pollo in Carnago and the Buzunel in the Castelseprio valley floor. You can also discover the springs of the Tenore torrent. The particular geology of the area creates numerous small streams fed by spring water and rainwater, adding to the diverse ecosystems.
Are there any routes that follow old railway lines?
Yes, cyclists can enjoy routes along former railway tracks, such as the Valmorea Railway Cycle Path (Valle Olona Cycle Path). These routes offer a unique glimpse into the region's industrial past and provide generally flat, well-maintained surfaces ideal for touring cycling.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Parco Rile Tenore Olona?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the extensive network of well-maintained paths, and the combination of natural beauty with historical and cultural points of interest. The integration with larger cycle paths like the Ciclovia Olona Lura is also frequently highlighted as a major benefit.
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