The best MTB trails around Bacino artificiale di Val Noci

There are over 40 mountain bike trails available around Bacino artificiale di Val Noci, offering a diverse range of experiences for riders.

The trails around Bacino artificiale di Val Noci cater to various skill levels, though the majority are rated as difficult. You'll find 31 difficult routes, 11 moderate routes, and 1 easy route, ensuring options for different experience levels.

While many mountain bike trails here are moderate to difficult, there is at least one easy route available. For a more relaxed experience, the 4.5-kilometer pedestrian ring around the lake, recently renovated, is ideal for pleasant walks and can be enjoyed by families.

You can expect diverse landscapes, including serene natural settings, ancient chestnut groves (especially beautiful in autumn), and rolling Murgia hills with vineyards and olive trees. Many routes traverse panoramic ridges, offering stunning views of the wild Val Noci and the Ligurian Apennines.

Yes, many mountain bike trails around Bacino artificiale di Val Noci are designed as loops. For example, the Torrente Scrivia loop from Aggio is a popular moderate route, and the Road from Capenardo to Noci – Village of Noci loop from Davagna takes you through chestnut groves.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the challenging uphill sections, and the beautiful natural settings that provide an 'oasis of peace' away from urban life.

A great moderate option is the Torrente Scrivia loop from Aggio. This 24.9-mile (40.1 km) path winds through the Ligurian hinterland, offering panoramic views and a rewarding experience.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Abandoned Village of Crosi – Start of Enduro PS2 loop from Montoggio is a difficult 21.2-mile (34.1 km) trail that explores the wild Val Noci with varied ground conditions. Another challenging option is the Passo Dei Giovi – Slopes of Bric Montaldo loop from Canova Crocetta.

The landscape around Bacino artificiale di Val Noci changes beautifully with each season. Autumn is particularly appealing due to the chestnut groves. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for mountain biking, while summer can also be enjoyable, especially in the cooler parts of the day.

While riding, you might encounter the imposing 56-meter high dam that created the lake, built between 1924 and 1930. The area is also characterized by ancient chestnut groves and dry stone walls, which are prominent features of the landscape. Some routes, like the Palazzo Fieschi, Casella – Lake Val Noci loop from Canova Crocetta, pass by historical points of interest.

Many routes start from villages or towns around the lake, such as Montoggio, Aggio, Davagna, or Canova Crocetta. These locations typically offer parking facilities, making them convenient starting points for your mountain biking adventures. It's advisable to check the specific starting point of your chosen route for the best parking options.