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Routes
Mountain biking trails
Italy
Piedmont
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
Oggebbio

Alto Verbano Cadorna Line MTB Loop

Moderate

4.7

(65)

212

riders

Alto Verbano Cadorna Line MTB Loop

02:11

21.9km

550m

Mountain biking

Explore the historic Linea Cadorna on this moderate 13.6-mile mountain bike loop with panoramic Lake Maggiore views and WWI fortifications.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Includes a very steep uphill segment

You may need to push your bike.

After 4.58 km for 599 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

765 m

Start of the Cadorna Road towards the Monte Morissolo tunnels

Highlight • Trail

This is the crossroads from where, on the right, the dirt road of the panoramic military road Cadorna that leads to the tunnels of Monte Morissolo starts. Continuing on the …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

2

1.01 km

Good gravel path, also suitable for children. At the top there is a bunker from the First World War and there is a beautiful view of Lake Maggiore.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

3

3.06 km

A sensational view over Lake Maggiore

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4

10.5 km

Alpe Archia

Highlight • Mountain Hut

Alpe Archia is an old farmhouse that has been closed for years, but it's still an excellent place to take a break.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

5

16.6 km

Pian D'Arla - Zipline Start Point

Highlight • Viewpoint

Nice place to take a break with a view of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains. This is also where the zip line starts down into the valley.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

B

21.9 km

End point

Parking

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

15.2 km

3.87 km

2.68 km

101 m

Surfaces

10.7 km

3.93 km

3.78 km

3.51 km

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Friday 8 May

22°C

11°C

13 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of the 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' mountain bike trail?

The 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail is generally considered a moderate or intermediate mountain biking route. While the overall physical exertion is rated around 6/10, some ascents, especially towards Monte Spalavera, can be sustained and may require pushing your bike. Descents can be technical in parts, rated around 7/10, with excavated paths, roots, and singletrack sections that demand good technical skills.

Is this mountain bike trail suitable for beginners or families?

The main 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' route is moderate, so it might be challenging for absolute beginners or young children. However, simpler variants, such as an 'easy and comfortable' Linea Cadorna Ring with minimal climbing, are available and suitable for families and beginners. Always check the specific route variant before you go.

How long does it typically take to complete this mountain bike tour?

This mountain bike tour is generally a half-day ride. Depending on your fitness level, the specific variant chosen, and trail conditions, it can take anywhere between 3 and 4 hours to complete.

Where can I park to access the trail?

Specific parking information is not detailed in the provided sources, but the trail is located in the Verbano area, between the municipalities of Oggebbio and Aurano, on the western side of Lake Maggiore. It's advisable to check local municipality websites or komoot's tour planner for designated parking areas near the start of the route.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?

The trail offers varied terrain, including unpaved sections (around 10.7 km), asphalt (around 3.93 km), dirt roads (around 3.78 km), and natural paths (around 3.51 km). You'll also encounter singletrack sections (around 2.68 km) and secondary roads. The military roads are often well-maintained dirt paths, but some parts can be rocky or have roots, especially on descents. There are also sections with tunnels carved into the rock.

What are the main points of interest or scenic views along the way?

The route is rich in historical and scenic highlights. You'll find breathtaking vistas of Lake Maggiore, the surrounding pre-alpine lakes, the Po Valley, Monte Rosa, and the Swiss Alps. Key points include the Start of the Cadorna Road towards the Monte Morissolo tunnels, the Strada Cadorna Panoramic Trail (View of Lake Maggiore), and the Singletrack Colle–Morissolo and View of Lake Maggiore. You'll also pass by Alpe Archia and the Pian D'Arla - Zipline Start Point, offering unique views. The trail also features historical military fortifications like trenches, artillery positions, and barracks.

What is the best time of year to ride this mountain bike trail?

The 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail can be ridden almost all year round. However, it's important to exercise caution in case of recent snowfall, as some sections might become difficult or impassable. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery.

Is the 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail dog-friendly?

The provided information does not explicitly state rules regarding dogs on the 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail. It is generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash on shared trails and to check local regulations or park rules before bringing your pet.

Do I need any permits or pay an entrance fee for this trail?

There is no mention of permits or entrance fees required to access the 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail in the provided sources. It is generally open to the public.

Are there places to eat or resupply along the route?

The trail passes by Alpe Archia, which is categorized as a hut, suggesting it might offer some services or refreshments. For other services, it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the longer variants, as specific refreshment points are not extensively detailed along the entire route.

What is the historical significance of the Linea Cadorna?

The Linea Cadorna is a massive defensive military line built during World War I near the Swiss border. Its purpose was to protect Italy from a potential Austro-German invasion through neutral Switzerland. The trail repurposes these 'war tracks' into a 'path of peace,' allowing riders to explore well-preserved fortifications like tunnels, trenches, barracks, and observation posts.

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Trail Reviews

eTraveller 🚵‍♂️
June 2, 2024, Da Piancavallo al rifugio pian Vada’, anello nel bosco - 1750mt

June 2024. Cloudy and cool day. Departure from a viewpoint near Piancavallo for a circular circuit that leads to the Pian Vada' refuge from which you can enjoy a beautiful view of the lake and the mountains. Return along a road almost parallel to the outward journey. The path is beautiful, generally not very technical, for long stretches in the woods. 8 56%

Translated by Google

So the first and last km are on asphalt and consist of about 5km - for the rest it is a pleasant and gentle ride/or walk all in the woods and super easy there is only a small uphill stretch of about 20m then with a gentle up and down you enjoy the woods and you arrive at Passo Folungo - grandiose panorama) then it is all gentle descent and not to be missed and for everyone

Translated by Google

Panoramic and spectacular MTB tour along the "Cadorna Line" from which you can enjoy incredible views of Lake Maggiore and Valgrande.

Translated by Google

Supposedly a panoramic route, but the panorama was not visible today!

Great mountain bike tour, it felt much longer than just 2 hours. We had a lot of clouds, otherwise the photos would have been truly spectacular. This tour is a must-do. 😁

Translated by Google
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