The best MTB trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse
4.6
(162)
1,186
riders
61
rides
Mountain biking in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse offers a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, rolling hills, and extensive wooded areas. The region features a network of trails that traverse natural reserves and provide varied terrain for mountain bikers. These routes often follow the Merse River and explore the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Best mountain bike trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Farmavia Loop Trail, a 17.5 miles (28.2 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
1
riders
28.2km
02:37
730m
730m
Explore the moderate 17.5-mile Farmavia Loop Trail by mountain bike, featuring Bagni di Petriolo Hot Springs and Iesa Village.
4.3
(3)
8
riders
30.2km
02:12
640m
640m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
5
riders
14.1km
01:11
370m
370m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
2
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
16.6km
01:23
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The thermal water springs from the ground at 40° and creates several pools, forming a real little thermal bath.
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The Murlo Castle was the main center of the episcopal fiefdom, seat of the Bishops of Siena. The Castle is dominated at the highest point by the imposing bishop's palace, square in shape and with a sloped base, commonly called the "Palazzone". The entrance door is interesting, surmounted by a pointed stone arch, and inside, the vaulted rooms on the ground floor and the rooms with beams on the first floor are noteworthy. The palace was built by transforming and expanding the pre-existing building consisting of a 13th century tower; traces of it can be seen on the facade and especially inside on all floors. The walls surrounding the village/castle are from the same period and are still visible along almost the entire perimeter, along which there are two doors, one to the north and the other to the south/west. Characteristic are the houses leaning against the walls, most of which were also built after the war of Siena, in which secular traces have emerged during the renovations of recent decades. Until 1832, the seat of the Murlo Town Hall was in this Palazzina. Currently the Bishop's Palace houses the Archaeological Museum of Murlo, with the rich archaeological finds of Poggio Civitate; beautiful views that can be seen from the windows of the top floor.
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The municipality of Murlo is very large and is made up of numerous hamlets and small clusters of houses. Nestled in the Val di Merse, it enjoys both the wooded landscape and the typical hilly panorama of Siena. The territory is crossed by the Crevole stream, a tributary of the Ombrone, and by the Merse river that gives its name to the valley. Ruins of churches and castles constitute a cultural heritage of great interest. You can visit quarries and mines and take nature trails that lead to places now forgotten but which retain all their charm intact. The municipality of Murlo is very large and is made up of numerous hamlets and small clusters of houses. Nestled in the Val di Merse, it enjoys both the wooded landscape and the typical hilly panorama of Siena. The territory is crossed by the Crevole stream, a tributary of the Ombrone, and by the Merse river that gives its name to the valley. Ruins of churches and castles constitute a cultural heritage of great interest. You can visit quarries and mines and take nature trails that lead to places now forgotten but which retain all their charm intact.
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Mandatory pit stop at the Petriolo spa, the water has a temperature of 42°. There is a food truck where you can eat very well.
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A beautiful and welcoming square
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A beautiful town, not too famous, making it even more authentic and less frequented.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse?
There are over 50 mountain bike routes in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has recorded 56 tours in total.
What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain bike trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse?
The trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse primarily feature moderate difficulty, with 39 routes falling into this category. There are also 14 more challenging routes for experienced riders and 3 easier options suitable for beginners or families.
What is the average length and duration of mountain bike trails in this region?
Trail lengths vary, but many popular routes are between 14 km and 30 km. For example, the Farmavia Loop Trail is 28.2 km and takes about 2 hours 37 minutes, while the Bagni di Petriolo Hot Springs – Petriolo Thermal Baths loop from Pari is 14.1 km and can be completed in about 1 hour 11 minutes.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse?
Yes, while many trails are moderate, there are 3 routes classified as easy, which are generally more suitable for families or those new to mountain biking. These trails often follow less technical paths through the scenic Tuscan countryside.
When is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse?
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for mountain biking in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse. The weather is typically milder, and the natural landscape is vibrant. Summer can be hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable if riding during this season.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails?
You can expect a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, rolling hills, and extensive wooded areas. Trails often feature a mix of forest paths, gravel roads, and some singletrack, providing varied terrain that follows the Merse River and explores the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Are there any mountain bike loop trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the region are designed as loops. Popular examples include the Farmavia Loop Trail and the Murlo – Murlo loop from Podere l'Orsa, which offer convenient starting and ending points.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 180 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, the scenic views of the Tuscan countryside, and the variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Are there any trails that pass by thermal springs or other unique natural features?
Yes, the Bagni di Petriolo Hot Springs – Petriolo Thermal Baths loop from Pari is a notable route that leads through river valleys and past the famous Petriolo thermal springs, offering a unique experience.
Are there advanced mountain biking trails for experienced riders?
Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 14 routes classified as difficult. These trails typically feature more significant elevation changes and technical sections, providing a more demanding ride through the region's varied terrain.
Can I find mountain bike routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Many routes in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse offer scenic views, particularly those that traverse rolling hills. The Bagni di Petriolo Hot Springs – View of Val d'Orcia loop from Fiume Ombrone, for instance, provides stunning vistas, including views towards the Val d'Orcia.
What is the elevation gain like on mountain bike trails in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse?
Elevation gains vary significantly depending on the trail. Moderate routes like the Farmavia Loop Trail can have over 700 meters of ascent, while others, such as the Bridge Over the Merse River – S.Lorenzo a Merse loop from San Lorenzo a Merse, have around 470 meters, reflecting the region's rolling hills.
Most popular routes in Riserva Naturale Basso Merse
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