Petit Poignon da Villeneuve — Giro ad anello

The "Petit Poignon da Villeneuve — Giro ad anello" is a difficult mountain biking route, demanding very good fitness and advanced skills. This challenging 10.9-mile (17.5 km) loop features a significant 3296 feet (1005 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. You'll start with an asphalt section, then climb a steep gravel road through the forest, encountering varied surfaces including paved road, unpaved road, path, and singletrack. From the Petit Poignon plateau at 1560 meters, you'll enjoy expansive views of the Cogne valley, including the Grivola and Gran Nomenon peaks. The descent is a technical and challenging path immersed in the woods, with sections of rough, disconnected rock that might require you to dismount.

This route is a popular choice for local mountain bikers in the diverse topography around Villeneuve, Italy. The trail begins with a 5-kilometer asphalt section from Villeneuve to Champlong, setting the stage for the demanding climb ahead. Be prepared for a varied surface composition throughout the ride, including roughly 3.72 kilometers of paved road, 3.91 kilometers of unpaved road, 6.25 kilometers of path, and 6.87 kilometers of singletrack. Some sections, particularly during the descent, are steep enough that you may need to push your bike. The route also includes a short, illuminated tunnel section, adding a unique element to your ride.

What makes this trail stand out is its combination of challenging ascents, technical descents, and historical beauty. It is considered a classic single trail route on the outskirts of Aosta, offering a truly engaging experience for experienced mountain bikers. A significant highlight is passing by the ancient Roman bridge-aqueduct of Pont d'Ael, a unique structure originally built for industrial marble extraction. This historical landmark, where the upper part carried water and the lower served as a passage, adds a rich cultural layer to your demanding ride.