The best traffic-free bike rides in the Piedmont

Embark on a challenging road cycling adventure with the Valle Cannobina - Passo Marco Pantani Climb, a difficult route spanning 30.4 miles (48.9 km). You will ascend a significant 3378 feet (1030 metres) over an estimated 2 hours and 41 minutes, pushing your limits through a wild valley. As you pedal, you will pass through charming, picturesque villages, enjoying a peaceful atmosphere away from the lakefront. The route offers diverse landscapes and culminates at the Marco Pantani Pass, where a monument honors the famous cyclist.

When planning your ride, be aware that traffic is generally low, making for a pleasant experience. You should note a tunnel that prohibits bikes; however, a small, well-lit bike path provides a safe bypass. There are numerous water points available along the way, which are especially useful during warmer months, including four fountains near Traffiume. This climb is best suited for cyclists with very good fitness levels, ready for a sustained effort.

This route takes you deep into the Val Grande National Park, offering a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty. The journey through Valle Cannobina provides stunning views and a sense of tranquility. The Marco Pantani Pass itself is a notable landmark, not just for its elevation but also for its tribute to a cycling legend, adding a layer of historical significance to your ride.

Embark on the Mottarone Climb from Stresa, a challenging road cycling route that takes you through serene coniferous forests. This difficult ascent covers 25.1 miles (40.3 km) and demands a significant 4353 feet (1327 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this rewarding journey in about 2 hours and 42 minutes, culminating in panoramic views from the summit.

When planning your ride, be aware that the final 8 kilometers of the climb are on a private Borromean road. This section offers excellent surfacing and reduced car traffic, making for a more pleasant ascent. Cyclists can pass through this part of the route for free, while cars are required to pay a toll.

As you climb, you will be treated to picturesque views over Lake Maggiore and its islands. The summit of Mottarone, standing at 1438 metres above sea level, provides a unique vantage point where you can see seven different lakes, including Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, alongside the majestic Italian and Swiss Alps.

Prepare for a difficult road cycling challenge on the Colle delle Finestre Climb from Susa. This route covers 24.5 miles (39.5 km) and demands a significant 6167 feet (1880 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 38 minutes to complete. You will begin by winding through a dense, shaded forest, enjoying the cool cover of trees as you ascend. As you climb higher, the landscape opens up dramatically, offering expansive views of the valley and the majestic Cottian Alps. The ride culminates at the iconic Colle delle Finestre mountain pass, after a unique transition from paved roads to an unpaved gravel section.

When planning your ride, be aware that the upper 8 kilometers of this route feature unpaved gravel. This section can vary in surface, from compact pebbles to looser sand and larger stones, so prepare accordingly. For the best experience and to handle the varied terrain effectively, consider using 25mm or 28mm tires on your racebike. Ensure you are ready for a sustained effort over several hours.

This climb is situated within the Parco Orsiera Rocciavrè, offering a wild and scenic backdrop to your cycling adventure. The Colle delle Finestre is renowned for its inclusion in major professional cycling races, making it a bucket-list climb for many enthusiasts. Its distinctive mix of paved and unpaved sections sets it apart from many other alpine ascents. This route provides a true test of endurance and skill, rewarding you with a memorable experience in the Italian Alps.

Embark on the Saluzzo: Tour of the Three Passes, a moderate road cycling route that takes you through the scenic Piedmont region. You'll navigate 31.8 miles (51.2 km) of varied terrain, gaining 2551 feet (777 metres) in elevation. Expect to spend around 2 hours and 41 minutes enjoying the ride, passing through charming medieval villages and offering expansive views of the hills, with the majestic Monviso mountain often in sight. This tour provides a rewarding challenge for cyclists with good fitness.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as parking is readily available in and around Saluzzo, providing a convenient start to your journey. The route primarily follows paved surfaces, ideal for road cycling, though be aware that some sections might include unpaved stretches. This tour is best enjoyed during daylight hours, allowing ample time to complete the moderate challenge.

This tour offers a deep dive into the historical and natural beauty of the Piedmont region. As you cycle, you'll encounter the ancient avenues and 15th-century palazzos of Saluzzo's historic center, providing a glimpse into its rich past. You can also enjoy the vista from the View of Costigliole Saluzzo from the bridge, a notable landmark along the way.