,,,, ,, TIME,,,, TRIAL POINT THE GIRO D ITALIAITALIA MOUNTAINS GRANDA BIKE TOUR - MOUNTAIN BIKE ,,,, BIKE HOTELS - EVENTS,,,, CUNEO WALK AND BIKE SHOW

1 INDEXINDEX TIMETRIAL POINT 11 slopes complete from page 10 with time trial test point to page 22 ,, , ,, THE GIRO D ITALIA MOUNTAINS Rival professional from page 23 cyclists’ performances to page 31 ,, ,, GRANDA BIKETOUR Taste our wonderful from page 32 landscapes to page 43 MOUNTAINBIKE Discover the itineraries from page 44 of our alpine valleys to page 75

Registered Offices: Via Vittorio Amedeo II, 13 - 12100 Cuneo CUNEO BIKEHOTELS Via Bruni 5 - 12100 Cuneo Ph. +39.0171.690217 - 0171.601119 Hotels at the disposal from page 76 Fax +39.0171.602773 of cyclists to page 79 www.cuneoholiday.com www.autunnocongusto.com [email protected] EVENTS A wide variety from page 80 of shows to page 83

Text Gianni Scarpace, ATL del Cuneese, Cônitours Computer Graphics Alpimmagine Photographic material Archivio ATL, Walter Leonardi, Artic Video Translations Europa 92 2 3 ,, CUNEOCUNEOSS TOURIST-CYCLINGTOURIST-CYCLING DISTRICTDISTRICT

A land of extraordinary scenary and panoramic variation but also cultural, artistic, gastronomic and folklore richness welcomes visitors with great pride and expertise. Yes, we are happy that you can come and “discover” us and that you can take back home with you the memory of your rides, the surprises you have seen and want to tell people about it. We are sure we will be a surprise for you because we live in a protected, sheltered, quiet and silent corner crowned with mountains, an inviting plain and sports-challenging valleys. But also because we have preserved woods and forests, fields and meadows, flowers and animals; because we have a never-ending variety of environments and therefore of habits too. This is reflected in the traditional strength of a rich varied and healthy cuisine and in the quietness neces- sary to appreciate space and silence. While cycling you will chance upon marmots, chamois and eagles, on your climbs, enjoying the downhills, feeling good on the banks of the river or in the middle of orchards and fields where you may encounter more tractors than cars. All this with a new concept of hospitality and range of sports, without logistic worries, that allows you to make the best out of visiting towns, villages, hamlets and churches, palaces, castles. We are sure you will have a lot of tales to take back: come back here with your family or your friends. You are always welcome and expected. Gianni Vercellotti President of the Cuneo Tourism Bureau

4 5 sons characterizing the choice of the routes and stages, and who invites cycling fans to tour the “Granda” province. Claudio Chiappucci is no stranger to the experience of tourist-cycling itiner- aries. He can rely on a solid experience in the field of the most prestigious ... Cuneo’s long-distance races and in travels to temperate countries with tourist- tourist-cycling cyclists. It is not a coincidence because district the Cuneo area is a territory suitable «Cycling on these hills has been one for cyclist and tourist-cyclists alike. of the most beautiful experiences I Cuneo’s tourist-cycling district was have ever had. It is an intelligent and designed so as to offer a positive and pleasant choice when it is done with organised idea for those who want to Cuneo’s “Granda” Bike Tour, the Bike experience the province by bike. hotels and the Time Trial Test Point». «A bicycle – Chiappucci says – is not These words are frank, without frills only an ecological and adventurous and direct, like the man who uttered means of experiencing nature, the them. If a cyclist of the standing of mountains and sea or just a Claudio Chiappucci totally embraces town, but it is also a way of life. the Cuneo adventure, it is because Behind a cyclist there is an the chosen itineraries have hit the explorer, a naturalist, a mark precisely thus giving a more person searching for dif- professional and complete meaning ferent places smelling to the all enterprise. Chiappucci is the scents, discovering the unforgettable champion who new tastes and colours». As an over a long-career earned the nick- expert in strong cycling passions, name of “El Diablo”. He won the Chiappucci does not forget the Milano-Sanremo race in 1991, two social value that a bike can have. World Cup races, he arrived second in «Such a fascinating sport,”El the Tour de in 1990 and 1992, Diablo” adds, can only give in the Giro d’Italia in 1992; he won rise to several forms of associ- silver medal at the World Cham- ations at all levels, from the pionship in Agrigento in 1994 and recreational groups looking obtained many top positions through- for gastronomic discoveries out the world history of two-wheels. while on the saddle to real He is the cyclist who embraced the athletes seeking new adven- will to cycle first for enjoyment and tures with the wind on their then for technical professional rea- skin». 6 7 «Cuneo’s valleys and plains – Chiap- scents, we can go along secondary OUR AREA pucci says – are the craddle of eno- roads and closed to traffic, we can This brochure only refers to the plain and mountain gastronomy but they have also been experience an immediate contact part indicated by the stages of the Giro d’Italia for many with people going back to a more green line. years. This is a land of cyclists and human rhythm of life. In short, we devotees of the two wheels for fun, feel better. health and passion. Besides identify- It is not true it is so tiring; ing some itineraries for cyclists who can rely on their good physical train- ing to tackle the high mountain climbs or who love to vie with distance, the purpose of this won- derful enterprise is to suggest a se- lection of roads and trails for pleasant tours and for train- ing. A variety offered by the richness of landscapes and itineraries immersed in natural environ- ments, where the sports activities can be continuously enriched by cul- tural visits and wine and food stop- offs». But in the end in Chiappucci’s opinion why does cycling appeal at all ages? El Diablo says: «The main reason that makes us fall in love with it is only important just to choose an this means of transport is because we itinerary at one’s own level. It can can see things that usually pass also be done with kids who will be quickly behind our car windows. The very happy to cycle free of danger or reduced speed allows us to spot all to be carried on one of their parents’ For more information about Cuneo those details that pass unobserved saddles instead of getting bored and its events visit along any state road at 80 km/h. And inside a car. www.cuneoholiday.com then we can hear sounds and smell Try it and you won’t be disappointed». www.autunnocongusto.com 8 9 All you have to do is collect the special magnetic card at the Time Trial special distribution points, then insert it in the device at de- parture, and start climbing. The same operation must be done again at the top. That’s it! The microchip on the card Point records the times and when you give it back a special soft- ware prepares your certificate with all the data related to your performance. Three simple words very familiar to A complete tourism-cyclist service, which includes the logis- anyone who practises any sport, espe- tic support of the bike hotels. cially cycling. It is based on a project There are 11 climbs linked to a Time Trial Point, where the widly known among bike devotees professional cyclists of the Giro d’italia battled it out. It is an and is exciting and enjoyable. ideal challenge made even more appealing because of the It is an electronic detection system memory of the great champions’ performances. Fauniera and of the time taken to cover a specific Agnello Time Trial Point in the Grana valley and the route that allows cyclists to compete valley, already tested technically and operationally. In addi- against the clock on a climb or on a tion there are the others installed in the valley and in pre-established route. the Monregalesi valleys, in the Gesso valley, in the Verme- At the end of his/her “performan- nagna valley, in the valley, in the valley and in ce”, the cyclist can collect a certifi- the . cate which indicates his/her trip time. Due to its success among pub- lic and critics in certain areas of the , now the scheme is well established thanks to the sinergy obtained through organizations, associa- tions and groups of sports and tourism fans. Each climb is carefully indicated with signs purposely designed for tourism-cyclists. Altitude difference, average gradient and distance are now available for those who cycle. Furthermore a series of hairpin turns and spectacular landscapes dedicat- ed to the great climbing cyclists of the past. 10 11 Time Trial Time Trial Point Point

1 2 ALTA VALLE TANARO VALLI MONREGALESI - PRATO NEVOSO

DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET Ponte di Nava - Ormea Grocer’s shop Palasagra Property (818 m) Fraz. Ponte di Nava (640 m) Residence Bertola Ormea Via IV Novembre 42 ARRIVAL ARRIVAL Frabosa Sottana Ponte del Giairetto CARD PRICE Chalet Pro Loco Ph. +39.0174.244209 Briga Alta (1585 m) € 3.00 (1 climb) Prato Nevoso (1500 m) € 10.00 (5 climbs) CARD PRICE LENGTH LENGTH Valid for all € km 20.400 km 11.500 3.00 (1 climb) Chrono Test Point € 10.00 (5 climbs) ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE of Cuneo’s ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Valid for all tourist-cycling district m 767 m 880 Chrono Test Point CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 of Cuneo’s AVERAGE GRADIENT reimbursed by AVERAGE GRADIENT tourist-cycling district 3.75 % any manager 7.50 % CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 MAX GRADIENT MAX GRADIENT reimbursed by 13.00 % 13.00 % any manager

12 13 Time Trial Time Trial Point Point

3 4 VALLE PESIO VALLI GESSO AND PIAN DELLE GORRE MADONNA DEL COLLETTO

DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET Chiusa Pesio - Sede Parco Bar Carillon (773 m) Tobacconist’s shop (580 m) Piazza Cavour 2 “Aldo Aime” ARRIVAL Chiusa Pesio Via Dante Livio Bianco 12 ARRIVAL Madonna del Colletto Ph. +39.0171.734842 Valdieri Pian delle Gorre (1000 m) (1305 m) CARD PRICE CARD PRICE LENGTH LENGTH € 3.00 (1 climb) € 3.00 (1 climb) km 12.500 km 6.100 € € 10.00 (5 climbs) 10.00 (5 climbs) ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Valid for all ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Valid for all m 410 Chrono Test Point m 532 Chrono Test Point of Cuneo’s of Cuneo’s AVERAGE GRADIENT AVERAGE GRADIENT tourist-cycling district tourist-cycling district 3.00 % 8.72 % CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 reimbursed by reimbursed by MAX GRADIENT MAX GRADIENT any manager 8.00 % any manager 9.34 % between km 2 and km 3

14 15 Time Trial Time Trial Point Point

5 6 TERME DI VALDIERI COLLE FAUNIERA

DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET Sant’Anna di Valdieri Shop inn “I Bateur” (824 m) Camping “Roccastella” (980 m) Via Provinciale 77 Via Federico Mistral 1 Sant’Anna Valdieri ARRIVAL ARRIVAL Colle Fauniera (2511 m) Ph. +39.0171.989113 Terme di Valdieri (1390 m) CARD PRICE € 3.00 (1 climb) LENGTH CARD PRICE LENGTH € 10.00 (5 climbs) km 20.900 € 3.00 (1 climb) km 7.310 Valid for all € 10.00 (5 climbs) ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Chrono Test Point Valid for all ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE m 1687 m 410 of Cuneo’s Chrono Test Point tourist-cycling district AVERAGE GRADIENT of Cuneo’s € AVERAGE GRADIENT CAUTION MONEY: 10.00 10.06 % tourist-cycling district 5.61 % reimbursed by CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 any manager MAX GRADIENT reimbursed by MAX GRADIENT 14.75 % any manager 7.80 % between km 3 and km 5

16 17 Time Trial Time Trial Point Point

7 8 VALLE VARAITA VALLE MAIRA COLLE DELL’AGNELLO SANT’ANNA DI

DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET Chianale Hotel “Taverna del Sole” Piazza XX Settembre Jack Bar (1809 m) Località Furest 1 (625 m) Piazza XX Settembre 23 Dronero ARRIVAL Ph. +39.0175.950177 ARRIVAL Ph. +39.0171.917279 Colle dell’Agnello Sant’Anna Roccabruna (2748 m) CARD PRICE (1252 m) CARD PRICE € 3.00 (1 climb) € 3.00 (1 climb) LENGTH € 10.00 (5 climbs) LENGTH € 10.00 (5 climbs) km 9.450 Valid for all km 6.700 Valid for all ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Chrono Test Point ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Chrono Test Point m 939 of Cuneo’s m 627 of Cuneo’s tourist-cycling district tourist-cycling district AVERAGE GRADIENT CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 AVERAGE GRADIENT CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 9.99 % reimbursed by 10.00 % reimbursed by any manager any manager MAX GRADIENT MAX GRADIENT 14.00 % 18.00 %

18 19 Time Trial Time Trial Point Point

9 10 VALLE MAIRA VALLI PO, BRONDA, INFERNOTTO COLLE D’ESISCHIE MONTEBRACCO

DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET Ponte Marmora (To be established) Bivio Montebracco (390 m) Caffè del Borgo - Grall (945 m) Via Giuseppe Verdi 4 CARD PRICE ARRIVAL Barge € ARRIVAL 3.00 (1 climb) Montebracco (920 m) Ph. +39.0175.343362 Colle d’Esischie € 10.00 (5 climbs) (2366 m)) Valid for all LENGTH CARD PRICE Chrono Test Point km 5.100 € 3.00 (1 climb) LENGTH of Cuneo’s € 10.00 (5 climbs) km 23.000 ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE tourist-cycling district m 530 Valid for all € ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE CAUTION MONEY: 10.00 Chrono Test Point m 1421 reimbursed by AVERAGE GRADIENT of Cuneo’s any manager 10.39 % tourist-cycling district AVERAGE GRADIENT CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 6.90 % MAX GRADIENT st reimbursed by 12.50 % at 1 km any manager MAX GRADIENT 11.50 % at 2nd km 13.20 % 8.20 % at 3rd km 4.80 % at 4th km 10.00 % at 5th km

20 21 Time Trial Point

11 VALLI PO, BRONDA, INFERNOTTO PIAN DEL RE TheThe DEPARTURE CARD RETAIL OUTLET “Giro d’Italia” (614 m) Valley Po Tourist office “Giro d’Italia” Bronda and Infernotto ARRIVAL Pian del re (2020 m) Piazza Vittorio Veneto 30 mountainsmountains Paesana TOTAL LENGTH Ph. - fax +39. 0175.945857 km 20.550 [email protected] Paesana- km 11.150 Crissolo-Pian del Re CARD PRICE (open from June to September) € 3.00 (1 climb) km 9.400 € 10.00 (5 climbs) ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Valid for all m 1406 Chrono Test Point of Cuneo’s AVERAGE GRADIENT tourist-cycling district 7.00 % CAUTION MONEY: €10.00 MAX GRADIENT reimbursed by 12.00 % any manager

22 23 The “Giro d’Italia” The “Giro d’Italia” mountains mountains MONVISO- COLLE DI 1 PIAN DEL RE 2 We are under Monviso mountain, the King of The Sampeyre Pass is located on the ridge VALLE Stone” in the Po Valley. The Giro d’Italia has been that separates the from the Mai- here twice, in 1991 and 1992, it has been won by ra valley. The “Giro d’Italia” arrived at an alti- MAIRA Massimiliano Lelli and Marco Giovannetti respec- tude of 2284 m above m.s.l. going up the Mai- DEPARTURE tively. Starting from Paesana (614 m above ra valley. Departure from Dronero (625 m). DEPARTURE Paesana (614 m) mean sea level), the road climbs easily.Then there Afterwards there is an easy nearly 20 km Dronero (625 m) ARRIVAL is a series of hairpin bends until the junction for stretch leading up the valley touching San ARRIVAL Pian del Re (2020 m) .After passing the junction for ,it Damiano (745 m), Bedale (818 m), The Sampeyre Pass climbs upwards with a few demanding hairpin and (910 m). After leaving the valley (2284 m) LENGTH bends and a long uphill stretch before reaching road on the right, you are immediately in the km 20.550 LENGTH Crissolo (1318 m). A short but rather steep sec- quick of the climb; the rather narrow road km 14.500 ALTITUDE tion leads to the town centre where there is San climbs up suspended over a deep ravine, cut- DIFFERENCE ’s Shrine; then it goes through the ting through walls of limestone with a series of ALTITUDE m 1406 other villages of Serre and Borgo. Now the most tunnels in the rock. Gradients are sharp and DIFFERENCE AVERAGE GRADIENT difficult stretch of the route has to be tackled up continuous, and they can reach 15%. The val- (from the fork for 7.00 % to an altitude of 1715 metres at Pian Meltzè, bet- ley widens and we arrive in Elva (1637 m), Stroppo) m 1354 ter known as Pian della Regina. After some where the parish church preserves some fres- MAX GRADIENT AVERAGE GRADIENT long and panoramic uphill stretches, we we arrive coes by Flemish artist Hans Clemer dating back 9.40 % 12.00 % th at Pian del Re at the Sourse of the river Po at an to the 15 century. The road climbs further and MAX GRADIENT altitude of 2020 metres. the last 4 km are especially demanding. 15.00 %

2284 Bivio per Stroppo 2020 1931 Col di Abel Col di

Elva 1755 1637

1600 Deviaz. Molino Allioni

Crissolo 1420 1400

Bivio per Ostana 1318 Bassura Bivio per Stroppo 1130 Bivio per Elva Bivio per Oncino 1000 Pian del Re 925 930 930

890 Colle di Sampeyre Paesana 788 862 614 700

km 20,550 km 14,500

SAMPEYRE FRANCIA COLLE DELLE BARGE TRAVERSETTE COLLE DI SAMPEYRE

CRISSOLO PIAN DEL RE

PAESANA

MONVISO ELVA VALLE PO BUSCA CHIANALE VAL MAIRA

PONTECHIANALE MACRA S. DAMIANO MACRA STROPPO DRONERO MONTEROSSO COSTIGLIOLE CUNEO SALUZZO SAMPEYRE

24 25 The “Giro d’Italia” The “Giro d’Italia” mountains mountains COLLE DELLA PRATO 3 MADDALENA NEVOSO 4 The is part of the history of The sharp hairpin bends heading for the ski re- VALLE cycling. It is the first of the great climbs of the sort of Prato Nevoso have twice been decisive VALLE STURA legendary 1949 Giro, from Cuneo to Pinerolo. in the “Giro”. In 1996 after breaking away MAUDAGNA It is an important connecting route between from everyone Pavel Tonkov won the stage and DEPARTURE and France, and also the point that divides took the pink jersey that he kept to the end of DEPARTURE (904 m) the Cottian from the . The the “Giro”. In 2000 was the Frabosa Sottana (641 m) ARRIVAL climb can be tackled starting either from Vi- first across the finish line thus moving into the ARRIVAL Colle della Maddalena nadio (904 m) or (1246 m). top positions and eventually winning in Milan. Prato Nevoso (1615 m) (1996 m) After Pontebernardo, home of the cross- So it is a tricky uphill climb. We are in the Mon- country skiing champion Stefania Belmondo, regalese area, in the Maudagna valley: you LENGTH LENGTH km 11.000 the road starts climbing in the Barricate gorge start from Frabosa Sottana, at an altitude of km 33.200 (today it goes through a tunnel).Then it reaches 641 m. It is fairly easy to pedal the first section ALTITUDE ALTITUDE Bersezio (1624 m) and (1684 m). up to Miroglio; just outside the town the road DIFFERENCE DIFFERENCE This is where the hardest part starts: 6.5 km becomes much harder as far as the Artesina m 974 m 1092 with an altitude difference of 312 m and an crossroad (it was here that Gianni Bugno tried AVERAGE GRADIENT MAX GRADIENT average gradient of 5%. Continuous wide to break from the peloton but did not manage 8.90 % sharp hairpin bends take us up to the Puriac it). In order to reach Prato Nevoso at an alti- 12.00 % MAX GRADIENT valley, then the road flattens out near a small tude of 1615 m you have to tackle 5 km of 16.00 % lake. Another few hundreds metres and we hairpin bends; they can be cycled at a good arrive at the Pass with its 1996 m of altitude. pace if you still have some energy in your legs.

1996 Argentera Bersezio

Posto Frontiera Posto 1624 1684 1615 1497 Pietraporzio Bivio per Prato Nevoso 1246 galleria 1127 Colle della Maddalena Miroglio

Frabosa Sottana Frabosa 800 641 Prato Nevoso Prato

km 18,500 km 11,000

CASTELMAGNO MONDOVI COLLE DELLA MADDALENA MONTEROSSO S. MICHELE PONTEBERNARDO ARGENTERA CUNEO VILLANOVA PIETRAPORZIO

RITTANA

BAGNI DI VINADIO FRABOSA FRABOSA VINADIO SOTTANA SOPRANA BORGO S. DALMAZZO

FESTIONA PRATO NEVOSO ARTESINA

COLLE DELLA BOSSEA LOMBARDA VALCASOTTO S. ANNA LIMONE P. DI VINADIO TERME DI FRANCIA VALDIERI ISOLA 2000 26 27 The “Giro d’Italia” The “Giro d’Italia” mountains mountains COLLE COLLE 5 FAUNIERA DELL’ AGNELLO 6 The “Giro” discovered Fauniera in 1999.You A legendary climb. The Agnello Pass has a VALLE realize at once that it is one of those climbs place in cycling lovers’ hearts. At an altitude VALLE GRANA that make the difference: 14.4 km long, an of 2748 m it is the third highest pass in Euro- VARAITA altitude difference of 1687 m with an aver- pe (after Bonette and Stelvio): it is a truly DEPARTURE age gradient of 9.5%. To reach the altitude striking climb. We start off from Sampeyre DEPARTURE Pradleves (824 m) of 2511 m of the Fauniera Pass, the cyclists (971 m) in the heart of the Varaita valley. The Sampeyre (971 m) INTERMEDIATE start out from the Grana valley, famous for its road begins climbing near Casteldelfino ARRIVAL Colle Fauniera (2511 m) cheese named . The road starts (1296 m) with a series of very demanding Colle dell’Agnello climbing in Pradleves (822 m) and enters a hairpin bends, and again before the lake of (2748 m) ARRIVAL narrow canyon that runs along a stream. Pontechianale (1603 m). Then we arrive in Demonte (780 m) LENGTH After the junction for Colletto (1105 m), the Chianale at 1815 m. The distance from Sam- km 30.000 LENGTH route becomes a high mountain climb, it is peyre is 20 km, and another 10 km remain. km 35.400 narrower and more demanding as far as They are the hardest, terrible for the differ- ALTITUDE ALTITUDE Chiotti. The gradient drops off near Chiap- ence in altitude (993 m in just 10 km), the DIFFERENCE DIFFERENCE pi, to climb once again until we reach San gradient (9.30% is the average, with some m 933 (from Chianale) m 1687 Magno’s Shrine (1761 m). Keep climbing sections of 14% and the last one that reach- AVERAGE GRADIENT for the remaining 6.7 km to the peak. There es 18%) and the altitude. A spectacular view AVERAGE GRADIENT 9.30 % (from Chianale) 9.50 % are really tough hairpin bends for the last 2 welcomes us on the top: we can see Monviso MAX GRADIENT km. The downhill ride leads to the Stura val- mountain, the Provençal valleys of Cuneo and 18.00 % MAX GRADIENT ley, and Demonte, 21 km away. the French Natural Park of Queyras. 17.75 %

2511 2365 22912301

Santuario S. Magno 2020 Chiappi 1761 Chiotti - S. Anna Chiotti - S. 1661 1526 1600 Crissolo

Rif. Trofarello Rif. 1420 Colle Fauniera

Bivio per Ostana 1318 Gias Fauniera Bivio per Colletto 1130 Bivio per Oncino Pian del Re Pradleves 1105 1000 Bivio Colle d'Esischie 890

822 Paesana 788 862 614 700

km 35,400 km 20,550

COLLE DELLE TRAVERSETTE CRISSOLO BARGE COLLE DELLA VAL GRANA FRANCIA MADDALENA FAUNIERA CARAGLIO CASTELMAGNO PIAN PAESANA DEL RE PRADLEVES VALLE PO

COLLE MONVISO PONTEBERNARDO CUNEO DELL’AGNELLO PIETRAPORZIO CHIANALE SALUZZO

PONTECHIANALE B.GO S. DALMAZZO

BAGNI DI VINADIO FESTIONA CASTELDELFINO FRASSINO VALLE VARAITA

SAMPEYRE COSTIGLIOLE BELLINO S. ANNA SALUZZO DI VINADIO ENTRACQUE

TERME DI VALDIERI FRANCIA LIMONE P.

28 29 The “Giro d’Italia” The “Giro d’Italia” mountains mountains SANT’ANNA PRADLEVES 7 DI VINADIO CHIANALE 8 As early as 1680 the first pilgrims started It was the 86th “Giro d’Italia” that glorified VALLE arriving at Sant’Anna di Vinadio, the high- this super-stage which joins the Esischie VALLE GRANA, STURA est Shrine in Europe. Today it is a famous Pass (part of the route described in Fau- VALLE MAIRA, site of worship. niera route above) and the Sampeyre VALLE VARAITA DEPARTURE We are in the Stura valley, departure from Pass.The joins the two passes: Vinadio (904 m) Vinadio at 904 m. The road starts climbing after climbing the 2236 metres of Esischie DEPARTURE 2 km later, in Pratolungo, and just beyond from Castelmagno, we go down towards ARRIVAL Pradleves (822 m) Santuario di Sant’Anna the junction for the Lombarda Pass.There ; near Ponte Marmora you join the (2010 m) is immediately a series of steep hairpin Maira valley State Road and, after a few ARRIVAL bends in the middle of a wood until you hundreds metres downhill, you climb again Chianale (1815 m) LENGTH enter Sant’Anna’s valley.The gradient drops the impressive Elva valley. After crossing km 15.000 LENGTH off a bit, then the road starts to climb again the town centre, whose parish church con- km 94.000 ALTITUDE (9%). There are two difficult uphill stretch- tains the famous frescoes by Hans Clemer, ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE es, some bends, a lengthy flat section the road reaches the Sampeyre Pass (2884 m 1106 DIFFERENCE before reaching the altitude of 1847 m. m). From here it goes down into the middle m 1462 AVERAGE GRADIENT Here the road divides up. To the left you of the Varaita valley (971 m) through thick, 7.37 % arrive in France via the Lombarda Pass at coniferous forests. An uphill arrival awaits MAX GRADIENT 2351 m. To the right after only 2 km you you: from Sampeyre you head for Castel- 9.00 % reach Sant’Anna’s Shrine at an altitude delfino eventually arriving in Pontechia- of 2010 m. nale (1797 m).

2284

Bivio per Stroppo 1996 Argentera

1931 Bersezio Col di Abel Col di

Posto Frontiera Posto 1684 Elva 1755 1624 1637 1497 Molino Allioni Deviaz. Pietraporzio

1400 1246 galleria Colle della Maddalena Bassura Bivio per Stroppo Bivio per Elva 925 930 930 Colle di Sampeyre

km 18,500 km 14,500

CASTELMAGNO CHIANALE PONTECHIANALE COLLE DELLA VALLE VARAITA MADDALENA MONTEROSSO CASTELDELFINO PONTEBERNARDO SAMPEYRE ARGENTERA CUNEO PIETRAPORZIO

RITTANA COLLE DI SAMPEYRE

BAGNI DI VINADIO DEMONTE VINADIO BORGO S.DALMAZZO

FESTIONA

COLLE DI ESISCHIE COLLE DELLA LOMBARDA ENTRACQUE S. ANNA LIMONE P. PRADLEVES DI VINADIO TERME DI FRANCIA VALDIERI ISOLA 2000 30 31 Granda bike tour

FROM VICOFORTE Granda TO MONDOVÌ 1 AND ROCCAFORTE DEPARTURE bike tour In the heart of the Monregalesi valleys we rec- Vicoforte (512 m) ommend you visit the characteristic village of Prea ARRIVAL (838 m) and then, after continuing uphill for a fur- Roccaforte (570 m) Those who believe that one of the ther 3 km, you will reach Sant’Anna’s Shrine most authentic ways to get to know (1098 m), a fine example of the French Baroque LENGTH the Province of Cuneo is to explore it style dating back to 1763. From the Shrine of Vi- km 34.000 by bike, will be able to appreciate a coforte (512 m) head for Fiamenga, passing the ALTITUDE wide variety of possibilities. The per- basilica on the left and then Viale Marconi; continue DIFFERENCE spective from the saddle of a bike is towards Mondovì along the “via delle Cappelle” m 600 so different. (the road of chapels). The direction is towards Via dell’Annunziata on the uphill to San Lorenzo, MAXIMUM ALTITUDE m 650 This sublime part of northern Italy is towards Monastero Vasco. The Direction is now not at all flat: this is the reason there Montaldo, in the Corsaglia valley. Just past Case DIFFICULTY are such wonderful panoramas, and Giacobba, after 4 km uphill, turn right towards Via Medium/difficult it is why we recommend suitable psy- Larone Balun-Luva. After reaching Bertolini So- cho-physical training. Two sessions prani turn left and after another kilometre turn per week with some climbs will cer- right. Head to the left into Via Unie and going down- tainly be enough to tackle the variety hill you will arrive in Via Alma which will be cycled leftwards around Madonna della Neve. Go in the of itineraries offered and to taste fully direction of Pianvignale, where the itinerary goes this kind of experience. along Via Baracchito to reach Roccaforte. From The sheme was designed to link the Roccaforte’s central fountain to the left into Via delle various “Bike Hotels” in the province Alpi you will reach Provincial Road 272. There are (see p. 78). Due to its vastness and two options: go to the left and after 2 km you will morphology, the Province of Cuneo arrive in Norea; by going to the right, at the subse- really offers an extraordinary blend of quent roundabout turning left and near the village environments. From the mountains of Magnaldi left again, you will be able to reach Lurisia,a spa centre renowned for its hot springs. to the gorgeous valleys, from the plain to the pleasant hills, the tourism-cyclists will be able to dis- cover, to visit and to appreciate the main historic, artistic and natural sites in the tour area. S. LORENZO The fairly acceptable distance in kilo- COMMI DI E. VASCO metres allows the cyclists to have COMINI DI VASCO time to enjoy the area, which after all MONASTERO VASCO is the real reason behind this sports PIANVIGNALE VILLA and tourist scheme. ALMA VIVALDA In conclusion we simply wish you a happy “tour” of the “Granda” by “bike”. 33 Granda bike tour Granda bike tour

FROM LURISIA FROM 2 TO LIMONE PIEMONTE 3 From Lurisia take the Provincial Road in the TO DEMONTE DEPARTURE direction of Chiusa Pesio where you will arrive DEPARTURE Lurisia (574 m) after passing the Murtè Pass. From Chiusa A visit to the centre of Demonte and the Limone Piemonte ARRIVAL Pesio take the ring road Via Vigne and then oulying villages can be of particular inter- (1009 m) Limone Piemonte Provincial Road 42 in the direction of the Pe- est for this section that goes from Limone ARRIVAL (1009 m) sio valley, leaving it shortly aftrewards in Via Piemonte to Demonte. Demonte (780 m) Mombrisone on the right. You will reach the From the centre of Limone proceed along LENGTH State Road 20. Please pay particular atten- LENGTH km 41.000 village of Montefallonio and then the town km 38.000 of . In Via Giovanni Pellegrini, tion along this very busy road until you ALTITUDE after the traffic lights turn left again into Via reach , where you ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Bisalta; 200 metres later take a right turning head for Largo Argentera. From here follow DIFFERENCE m 550 into Via Braro which will take you into the vil- the road signs to along m 200 MAXIMUM ALTITUDE lage of San Giovenale. Immediately beyond Provincial Road 23. After crossing the MAXIMUM ALTITUDE m 1000 the church leave this road and proceed to the Ponte del Sale (Salt bridge) over the m 1000 Stura river, take a left turning in the direc- DIFFICULTY left along Via Colletto which will take you to DIFFICULTY Medium Colletto which is at the top of this climb after tion of by taking Pro- Easy a distance of about 10 km. Go down to vincial Road 121 which after a few little Rivoira and proceed straight on to Boves climbs leads you to Roccasparvera. From where you will follow the signs to Borgo San this village continue to the right as far as Dalmazzo and Fontanelle. On arriving in the village of Castelletto; from here pro- Fontanelle, after 16 km, follow the roads signs ceed on your left until you reach State to which will be reached after a Road 21 in the direction of Demonte. Go total of 26 km. From here, proceed along the past the village of and turn left very busy State Road 20 in the direction of crossing the Stura river again. Then turn Limone Piemonte. You will reach this right towards Festiona. Once you reach famous ski resort known as the White Reserve Festiona continue in the direction of De- after covering a total distance of approx. 41 monte. And after about 3 km take a right km. We recommend a further climb to the old turning for Demone where you will arrive Tenda Pass to visit its fortifications. after a total distance of 38 km.

PEVERAGNO GORRE TETTO SOTTANO BOVES RITTANA S. GIOVENALE MONTEFALLONIO

CASTELLETTO FONTANELLE

CASTELLAR MADONNA BORGATO GAIETTO

GIACOMO MOIOLA

VERNANTE CERESOLE

S. MAURIZIO DEMONTE

LIMONE PIEMONTE FESTIONA

34 35 Granda bike tour Granda bike tour

FROM DEMONTE FROM CARAGLIO 4 TO CARAGLIO TO BUSCA 5 From the centre of Demonte proceed in the Starting from the Quadrifoglio Hotel in Caraglio, DEPARTURE direction of Festiona. At the end of the take Via Ritanolo in the direction of Palazzasso.Go DEPARTURE Demonte (780 m) downhill section take a right turning to past Paschera San Defendente and Paschera Caraglio (575 m) ARRIVAL reach the old military road beyond the Stura San Carlo towards Dronero. In the Town of Dro- ARRIVAL Caraglio (575 m) bridge. Proceed along this delightful sec- nero at the roundabout go right in the direction of Busca (500 m) LENGTH ondary road and go past the village of Fe- Pontevecchio or Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s LENGTH km 40.000 stiona. Proceed along this same road and bridge). Cross it and join the Maira valley State km 40.000 after a short uphill section and further 5 km Road 22 following the signs to Busca. Tackle the ALTITUDE join State Road 21 turning right in the direc- climb that leads you to St. Maria Delibera’s ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE tion of Borgo San Dalmazzo. Leave this road Shrine. Proceeding in the direction of Villar S. Co- DIFFERENCE m 250 at Piano Quinto in the direction of Rocca- stanzo go past an off-road section of 400 m. You m 230 MAXIMUM ALTITUDE sparvera. After reaching the village centre, will reach Villar Town Hall and then proceed in the MAXIMUM ALTITUDE m 780 proceed along Provincial Road 121. At Bi- direction of Morra. Go right along Via Combale (mar- m 720 DIFFICULTY cocca turn left towards Vignolo where you ked by red and white signs referring to mountain bike DIFFICULTY Easy will arrive after 2 km on the secondary road. tourism-cyclist itineraries). After reaching Morra and Easy From Vignolo proceed towards S.Michele crossing the bridge, go left towards the Maira river di Cervasca and from here to Cervasca. and Provincial Road 24. Continue down this road. The direction is towards after Immediately after turning right, turn left following leaving Provincial Road 23 and taking Pro- the brown posts with a squirrel on a mountain bike. vincial Road 41. From Bernezzo follow the After 35.5 km from the start take a left turning in the signs to Vallera to arrive at . direction of the Pass on Provincial Road Then follow the road signs to Montemale 46. After the pass continue to your right towards S. and after few metres turn right in the direc- Stefano and at the crossroads follow the signs to tion of Bottonasco so as to reach Cara- Eremo. Proceed to your right downhill. You will glio after a total distance of 40 km. At the reach Busca passing through Porta S. Maria after a start of the itinerary by the side of the lower total of 40 km. Places of particular interest along this Stura it is particularly interesting to note the itinerary are: the centre of Dronero, the Ciciu del fortifications which form part of a vaster Villar reserve, and the churches of Villar San complex. Costanzo and San Costanzo al Monte.

PALAZZASSO S. STEFANO CARAGLIO BUSCA

MORRA S. BERNARDO MORRA S. GIOVANNI VALGRANA VALLERA

VILLAR S. COSTANZO

MORRA S. MAURO CERVASCA S.MATTEO BERNEZZO

S. MICHELE PAVI DRONERO PRATAVECCHIA VIGNOLO PALAZZASSO

NARBONA ROCCASPARVERA

PIANO QUINTO CARAGLIO

36 37 Granda bike tour Granda bike tour

FROM BUSCA FROM 6 TO SALUZZO AND TO VICOFORTE 7 On the road at the bottom of the valley that DEPARTURE goes from Carrù to Bra, take State Road 661 DEPARTURE Busca (500 m) From Busca follow the signs to Roccolo Castle in the direction of Narzole and after passing Narzole (326 m) after taking a steep climb to S. Martino, then to the ARRIVAL the bridge over the Tanaro river, turn left and ARRIVAL Fossano (330 m) little village of Ceretto and on to Costigliole Sa- then left again. After reaching Vicoforte (512 m) luzzo, and Villanovetta. Before the centre turn left towards , then Costamagna. LENGTH of Villanovetta turn left in Via Griselda and then take LENGTH km 58.500 Continue uphill where you will arrive in S. Gra- km 46.000 Via San Bernardo to arrive at . At the traf- to (Piozzo). Leaving a road on the right after a ALTITUDE fic lights take the cycle path which runs parallel to further 1.5 km you will start an off-road section ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE State Road 589.Then turn left into Via Garibaldi and that leads to Carrù. From Piazza Perotti in Car- DIFFERENCE m 150 immediately turn right into Via Valerano. In Manta rù take the descent to the wonderful castle (14th m 720 MAXIMUM ALTITUDE at the roundabout turn left into Via Roma and then century) following the road that heads for Pro- MAXIMUM ALTITUDE m 500 right towards S.Maria del Monastero. Then take vincial Road 12. Cross it from the old station m 546 a turning on the left into Via Saluzzo, then Via S. and proceed in the direction of Ghigliani and DIFFICULTY Bernardino to arrive in Saluzzo at the 14th century DIFFICULTY Easy-Medium Rocca Cigliè. Once you have passed a bridge, Medium Castiglia, the Grancia Fountain, Piazza Risorgimento, you will begin an uphill section which leads to the Cathedral and Via Martiri. At the following traf- the villages of S. Bartolomeo and Ghigliani. fic lights turn left along the cycle-track. Along the Then follow the signs to Bastia Mondovì and State Road take a left turning into Via . to St. Fiorenzo’s church (14th century with go- The direction is , Benne, Pennacina, S. thic frescoes of considerable interest). From Salvatore and . A little more than 1 here turn right and at the roundabout left.After km farther, leave this road turning left in the direc- a bridge, to the left again. In Pascomonti take tion of Suniglia, Tetto Vigna as far as Genola and the second turning on the right and after 1 km at the stop on State Road 28 go right. After 200 m turn left into Ghiglia road that will join the Ba- on your left take Via S. Sebastiano in the direction of stia- route. Ignore the detour to Mondo- San Lorenzo and then Cussanio, where you will vì and complete the climb going past Briaglia. reach the Shrine of Madonna della Divina You will arrive in Vicoforte where, after turning Provvidenza. To the right the centre of Fossano is into Via Santuario, you will reach the imposing only 2.5 km away. The total distance is 58.5 km. Shrine dedicated to Regina Montis Regalis.

SALUZZO NARZOLE

MANTA SOLERE LEQUIO LAGNASCO TANARO VERZUOLO SOLERETTE

VILLANOVETTA S. SALVATORE SUNIGLIA COSTAMAGNA

S. GRATO PIASCO CARRÚ GHIGLIANI GENOLA CERETTO CUSSANIO BASTIA MONDOVÍ

PASCO DE MONTI FOSSANO BRIAGLIA

BUSCA VICOFORTE

38 39 Granda bike tour Granda bike tour

FROM VICOFORTE TO FROM CHIUSA PESIO 8 TO 9 From Vicoforte Shrine reach Vicoforte Departure from Piazza Tre medaglie d’oro DEPARTURE and turn right towards Moline. After reaching alpine in Chiusa Pesio. Head for the Pesio DEPARTURE Vicoforte (512 m) Moline continue to the left joining the Pro- valley along Provincial Road 42 leaving it 400 Chiusa Pesio (571 m) ARRIVAL vincial that crosses Torre Mondovì. Then m later in Via Mombrisone on the right. After ARRIVAL Frabosa Soprana turn right and cross the bridge in the direction arriving in Montefallonio the direction is to- Sambuco (1184 m) (891 m) of Pamparato. 11km later, at the roundabout wards Peveragno. In the town turn left into LENGTH LENGTH turn left to . In Borgata Via G.Pellegrini and after another 300 m km 65.500 km 60.000 Soprana turn left towards and Viola beyond the traffic lights turn into Via Bisalta; thus reaching the first peak, Colla Bassa 200 metres later turn right into Via Braro ALTITUDE ALTITUDE Quattro Strade. Go down to the left in tha which will take you into the Village of San DIFFERENCE DIFFERENCE direction of Lisio and then Viola.After anoth- Giovenale. Immediately after the church m 1233 m 1530 er 4.5 km uphill, in the centre of Viola follow leave this road and proceed to the left along MAXIMUM ALTITUDE MAXIMUM ALTITUDE the signs to Madonna della Neve where Via Colletto which will lead you to the first m 1305 m 1037 you will arrive after 31km from the start. climb, the Colletto Pass, after a distance of DIFFICULTY DIFFICULTY Continue to St. Greè and then to the right about 10 km. After reaching Rivoira contin- Medium Medium across a flat section joining the only road ue to Boves,(Borgo San Dalmazzo), Fon- leading to Pamparato. From the square con- tanelle and Roccavione. Follow the road tinue along the Provincial Road and at the signs to . 5 km later join the road to roundabout go straight to Serra Pampara- Valdieri, after a total distance of 29 km. to. From here turn left towards San Giaco- Following the signs to the Shrine where you mo di where you will arrive after will arrive after another climb of 5.7 km and a climb known as the “salita dei Cardini”. a total of 35 km. The downhill is towards Fe- After 5 km downhill, take a turning in the di- stiona. Continue along the military road in rection of Val Corsaglia and Corsagliola, and the direction of Vinadio and then, on State continue to Frabosa. Tackle the 3 km “Stra- Road 21 in the direction of France, you will luzzo” climb and you arrive at the crossroads reach Sambuco. We recommend you visit that leads to Frabosa Soprana to the left. the Parco delle Alpi Marittime (the We recommend you visit Pamparato Castle Maritime Alps Park), Valdieri spa, and and the nearby Casotto Castle. the Shrine of Sant’Anna of Vinadio.

SERRA

BRIAGLIA FRABOSA SOTTANA PIANO

TETTI CASOTTO SAMBUCO VICOFORTE TORRE MONDOVÍ FRABOSA SOPRANA DEMONTE MONASTEROLO SOPRANA PIANCHE CASOTTO

SERRO LISIO VINADIO FESTIONA FONTANELLE PEVERAGNO ROCCAVIONE BOVES VIOLA

BRIGNOLA S. GIOVENALE S. ANNA COLLAREA VALDIERI CHIUSA PESIO LANZA SERRA SERRA S. GRÈE

S. GIACOMO PAMPARATO CARDINI

40 41 Granda bike tour Granda bike tour

FROM CARAGLIO FROM SAMPEYRE 10 TO SAMPEYRE TO 11 Departure from Caraglio. Take the State AND FOSSANO DEPARTURE Road towards Valgrana in the Grana val- DEPARTURE Caraglio (575 m) ley. Then follow the road signs to Mon- This is an itinerary that allows cyclists to Sampeyre (971 m) ARRIVAL temale and tackle the difficult and wind- enjoy the forest of Alevè and the climb ARRIVAL Sampeyre (971 m) ing climb that leads to Montemale Castle. to the Agnello Pass. From Sampeyre Fossano (330 m) From this panoramic village continue (971 m) go down to Frassino, Melle and LENGTH . Then continue to LENGTH km 77.000 downhill until you reach Dronero, passing km 77.500 the Shrine of Madonna di Ripoli in the where you will turn left to . Tackle a ALTITUDE Maira valley. In Dronero at the roundabout 5 km climb that will lead you to Colletta ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE head in the direction of the old Ponte del di Isasca (the Isasca Pass). From here go DIFFERENCE m 1948 Diavolo (Devil’s bridge). Join State Road down through the Bronda valley along m 228 MAXIMUM ALTITUDE 22 and head for the Maira valley. Provincial Road 47 passing , MAXIMUM ALTITUDE m 2284 Climb the valley crossing the villages of and Castellaro. In Saluzzo go m 971 , , Lot- straight along the cycle path of Corso DIFFICULTY Roma. Turn left into Via Villafalletto (there DIFFICULTY Very difficult tulo, Macra and eventually Stroppo. Medium From Bassura di Stroppo continue for is a brown post with a squirrel on a moun- another 4 km as far as a junction and turn tain bike). After 54 km, now the direction right towards Elva. The road that climbs is Lagnasco. Pass the centre and head for with an average gradient of 8.3% and Pennacina and San Salvatore respec- some peaks of 15%, will lead you to the tively. Continue towards Savigliano, then valley of Elva, the highest administrative in the direction of Vottignasco crossing area in Europe at an altitude of 1640 m. the Maira river. Take a left turning towards From here up to the Sampeyre Pass, Suniglia and then turn right towards Tet- after another 7.4 km from Elva, and then to Vigna. You will arrive in Genola. downhill into the Varaita valley to Sam- Proceed towards San Lorenzo and 2.5 km peyre. We recommend you visit the parish later follow the signs to Cussanio along church of Elva and the many other the old road. Turn right and you will arrive chapels and Romanesque churches of at the Shrine of Madonna della Divina the Maira valley. Provvidenza and then to Fossano.

SAMPEYRE GARNERI

GARNERI S. ANNA SALUZZO ELVA CASTELLAR BRONDELLO LAGNASCO ISASCA SOLERE FRASSINO S. SALVATORE SOLERETTE STROPPO S. DAMIANO MACRA SAMPEYRE SUNIGLIA DRONERO BROSSASCO MACRA MELLE LOTTULO CARTIGNANO GENOLA FOSSANO MONTEMALE DI CUNEO

CARAGLIO

VALGRANA

42 43 Mountain Bike

THE RING OF 1 We are in the easternmost corner of the Province of Cuneo near the Ligurian Ri- ALTA VALLE viera. The departure of this itinerary is in TANARO MountainMountain Poggio, a village in the administration area of Caprauna. Go up the Provincial LENGTH Road towards the Caprauna Pass as far km 25 BikeBike as the off-road track that leads to San ALTITUDE Bartolomeo. The off-road section then DIFFERENCE meets the path that on the right goes m 660 down in the direction of the Chapel of DURATION Madonna Guarnieri. h 3.30 Go past Case Porcile, near Case dei Fan a steep tarmac section leads to a DIFFICULTY pass, the highest point of the itinerary Demanding (1465 m). From here go down to the San ADVISABLE TIME Bartolomeo Pass characterised by the From May to October ruins of an ancient chapel. From here turn right and proceed along the off-road track under Mount Dubasso and Aspe- riosa Rock, that goes down as far as the junction with the off-road track that climbs from the Shrine of Madonna del Lago. At this point turn right and go down to the Shrine. The last section is a tarmac downhill slope towards the Provincial Road to . At the end turn right and climb back to the village of Ca- prauna.

M.Armetta M.Pesauto C.LE S. BARTOLOMEO M.Dubasso 1739 m. 1543 m. 1538 m.

C.PORCILE C. DEI FAN

M.della Guardia MADONNA R.Asperiosa GUARNERI

1654 m. 1142 m.

MADONNA DEL LAGO

P R.delle Penne ALTO M.Bello CAPRAUNA 1501 m. 1316 m.

44 45 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

THE BALCONY FROM CEVA 2 OF ORMEA TO 3 A picturesque name, in Italian “La balcona- This itinerary along the Mongia valley ALTA VALLE ta di Ormea”, for this trail restored by the starts from Ceva going along State Road VALLE TANARO local CAI (Italian Alpine Club), on the left side 28. After taking the climb towards Viola MONGIA of the Tanaro river.The direction from the cen- and Lisio, turn off the main road after LENGTH tre of the village is towards Armella valley (do 350 m and take the Provincial Road to LENGTH km 25 not take the road to Villaro on the right). The Battifollo. km 25 ALTITUDE first villages that you will encounter are Pro- About 700 m further, leave the main road ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE nai inferiore (865 m) and Superiore (910 and head for Mazzarelli. Beyond the lit- DIFFERENCE m 914 m). After another 4.6 km, at an altitude of tle village, follow the off-road track to m 500 1020 m, turn off the tarmac road and go your left. After another 300 metres, tack- DURATION DURATION down to the left crossing a wooden bridge. le the climb known by local bikers as the h 4.00 h 3.00 On the left head for Colla Chionea (1230 “gran prix of the mountain” because it DIFFICULTY m, 6.9 km). Back on the tarmac road, turn left arrives at an altitude of 675 metres. DIFFICULTY Demanding downhill, then right at the church. Along the Proceed through a chestnut wood as far Medium ADVISABLE TIME off-road track you will arrive in Borgata as the road that leads to . Turn ADVISABLE TIME From March to November Porcirette (1110 m, 9 km), where the road right at the first junction and again at the From May to October splits in two around a house. Take the lower second. road, then the steep cycling climb, as far as After 10 km from the departure in Ceva, the cemetery of Chioraia (1510 m), a village you come out of the wood and join the typical for its masonry houses. Take the off- tarmac road connecting Ceva to Battifol- road track on your right, cross the Rava Gros- lo, where there is a big roadside statue sa stream, then climb up towards the little vil- named “Pilun Gros”. lage of Aimoni (1270 m, 12.4 km) and then Turn left and you will arrive in Battifollo to “La Coma” depression (1510 m). The at an altitude of 850 m. downhill biker can race down through beech- Leaving the village, near the cemetery, es and larches that stretch southward. you can see the ruins of a castle with its Crossing the bridge over the Nava you will square tower. come back to Ormea along State Road 28 The return is along the same route fol- under the beautiful Lanciata Rock. lowing the road to Ceva.

CEVA PORCIRETTE SOPRANE P PORCIRETTE SOTTANE CHIONEA C. RIAN

CHIORAIRA B.Carnevale C. MAZZARELLI

704 m. C. COLLETTA P ORMEA B.Cisello

S. G. BATTISTA 812 m.

B.Bastia P.Brignacchi P.La Colma AIMONI 940 m. NUCETTO 1557 m. BATTIFOLLO C. BRIGNACCHI 1570 m. PIANO B.Camilot QUARZINA

956 m. 46 47 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

FROM GARESSIO FROM CEVA TO 4 TO MOUNT BERLINO THE COLLA DI 5 A demanding itinerary, a real test of your PRATO ROTONDO VALLE climbing skills. From Garessio take the VALLE TANARO Provincial Road to Colla di Casotto as far Between the Tanaro valley and the Mongia MONGIA as the junction for Mindino. Cycling gets valley, you arrive at the Prato Rotondo Pass LENGTH hard due to the uneven ground; the gradi- (1503 m), a wide grassy depression, starting LENGTH km 21 ent is impressive. The itinerary goes through from Piangranone, a village near Garessio. Go km 18 to Piangranone by car. ALTITUDE birches, poplars and chestnut-trees. From ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE the old mule-track turn right in the direction From Ceva follow the Nava Pass State Road DIFFERENCE m 1200 of Colla di Casotto. The itinerary joins the 28. Go past the village of , and you will m 800 Provincial Road that leads to Colla (km 5) easily arrive at the junction for Piangranone. DIFFICULTY DIFFICULTY but you have to leave it immediately and Departure on a tarmac road in the direction of Very demanding Easy turn left onto the off-road track to Case di Deversi, where you can fill your water-bottles ADVISABLE TIME Capello (1205 m). You may have to get off at the fountain of the panoramic village. Take ADVISABLE TIME From May to October your bike along this uneven road. After a the off-road track on the right of the village. From May to October cross-roads with a tarmac road you will At the junction near a restored house take the arrive in Colla di Casotto (1381 m, 8km). right trail going up a steep bend. After pass- Take the trail on the left and try to recover ing some abandoned houses, you will arrive at some energy along the mountain side of Val another junction whose two tracks will come Casotto. At the junction, turn left. Steep together later on (the one on the left is more climbs lead to a depression from where you direct but more difficult and on rough ground; can see the shelter, Bric Min- the one on the right is easier). Proceed on the dino mountain and Garessio 2000.The off-road track and after some bends and peak to climb is Mount Berlino (1789 m, uphill stretches, you will arrive at the grassy km 13) from where you go down to the depression of the Prato Rotondo Pass. Rifugio Savona (CAI - Italian Alpine Club). To go back you can either return in the oppo- There are two possibilities to reach Valdin- site way or complete the itinerary along the ferno and then Garessio: Case Mulattieri off-road track that goes leftwards from the or Salvietto shelter (more demanding pass cutting through the eastern slopes of due to the narrow winding roads). Bric Mindino.

C.LLA DI CASOTTO C.LLE DI PRATO ROTONDO 1503 m.

1381 m.

GARESSIO

584 m.

PIANGRANONE M. BERLINO

DEVERSI 692 m. 1789 m. C. MULATTIERI VALDINFERNO 1418 m.

GARESSIO 48 49 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

FROM THE FROM VALCASOTTO 6 COLLA CASOTTO TO SURIE 7 TO BRIC MINDINO This is an itinerary in the Casotto valley VALLE along the tracks of the most ancient tradi- VALLE TANARO MOUNTAIN tions of the Monregalesi valleys, like the CASOTTO Carthusians’. From the Provincial Road of LENGTH Arriving at Mount Mindino along this the Colla di Casotto Pass, at the end of LENGTH km 11 itinerary in theTanaro valley is a unique Valcasotto, take a road on your right that km 9 experience, especially because of the vast ALTITUDE leads to San Rocco’s Chapel. In front of the ALTITUDE extents of rhododendrons that when in DIFFERENCE chapel the road on the right heads for the DIFFERENCE m 500 full bloom offer an uncomparable view. old connecting road of the Colla di Ca- m 280 The start of this itinerary is from the Col- sotto Pass and runs along the river of the DURATION DURATION la di Casotto Pass where you arrive same name. Proceed as far as the “Casa h 2.00 h 1.30 along the valley of the same name that Bassa” of the convent 10 min. away from DIFFICULTY crosses Pamparato. From the pass take Casotto Castle, an ancient Carthusian DIFFICULTY Easy the off-road track that heads for the sides Monastery. From here, cross the Provincial Easy ADVISABLE TIME of Mount Mindino, then leave the open Road, turn left and go down as far as the ADVISABLE TIME From May to October area of the pass and go through a wood first bend. From here take the off-road track From May to October of beeches. After another 2 km, there is a that goes up to Surie. One hundred metres cross-roads. Turn left and climb the hair- further, at the first bend continue along the pin bends as far as the Rocks of the Ra- off-road track. Along the hillside you will scazzo, along a stony road. From here arrive at an abandoned farmhouse named you can see the tall iron cross at the top “La Grangia”. Climb up in the direction of of the mountain at an altitude of 1879 m. Le Surie, where there is Sant’Anna’s Chapel. Looking south you can enjoy a spectacu- The return is along the same route. If you lar view over the Ligurian sea. The return want to shorten it, you can return to the is along the same route. starting point by following a path in a chest- The best period is from May to October, nut grove and along a stream which should but especially when the rhododendrons be viewed in the direction of Case are in full bloom and the valley turns into Romagnoli.The downhill road leads you to a wonderful violet spectacle. Valcasotto quickly.

Bric Nei Bric Mindino

1767 m. 1879 m. Bric Nei B.dei Sandri LE SURIE 1767 m. 1518 m.

CASTELLO DI CASOTTO VALCASOTTO R.ce del Rascazzo P B.Mindino

1879 m. 1737 m.

S. ROCCO R.del Rascazzo CASTELLO DI CASOTTO CORRERIA B.dei Sapetti 1737 m. P.della Sapea 1377 m. P CAPELLO COLLA DI CASOTTO 1665 m.

50 51 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

FROM MONTALDO FROM FRABOSA SOP. 8 TO SAN SALVATORE TO SECCATA 9 The village of Montaldo is part of an The departure for this itinerary in the VALLI area that was already inhabited in Neo- Maudagna valley, in the Monregalese VALLE MONREGALESI lithic times. Departure from the car park area, known as “the ring of Seccata” is MAUDAGNA of the sports area known as “Il Canalot”. in front of the Hotel Skilift in Frabosa LENGTH Head for the ski lifts. Soprana. Start with an uphill section LENGTH km 6 The uphill road leads to an off-road track that, beyond a roadside statue near Case km 15 ALTITUDE that climbs through a chestnut wood. Pelissera, arrives in Mongrosso.The ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Beyond a spring and a roadside statue, direction is towards the Straluzzo stream. DIFFERENCE m 260 you arrive at a bend. Follow the main off- After crossing this, head for San Barto- m 545 road track as far as Case Molineri igno- lomeo. The precise direction is towards DURATION DURATION ring all minor lateral trails. the Ucam shelter. After cycling a hun- h 1.30 h 2.30 From Case Molineri turn right as far as a dred metres on the tarmac road to Sec- DIFFICULTY road that climbs towards a cleared area cata, you have to take a track on the left DIFFICULTY Easy with a vast Karst-depression. The climb that goes down into a wood. Medium ADVISABLE TIME through the chestnut wood leads to the At the Geremia stream, follow the off- ADVISABLE TIME From May to October “Pul” plateau. First go south-west and road track. Then turn right and follow the From May to October then south crossing fields and skirting main road. With a steep short climb you some rural houses. will arrive in Seccata where there is the A short climb with a final right bend Church of San Lorenzo and San Bernar- leads in front of a reservoir. The direction do. To go back, follow the tarmac road is towards the village of San Salvatore that goes up towards San Bartolomeo’s until you join the off-road track that goes Chapel. From here you arrive at the start- down again to Case Molineri. You will ing point. arrive at the starting point after an excit- This route runs along the ancient inter- ing downhill. valley route that used to connect Frabosa Remember that Montaldo, the arrival of Soprana to the Corsaglia valley, the same this exciting and medium-difficulty itiner- road which had been run by the mythical ary, lies at 800 m of altitude and is sor- figure of “Miclinet”, a valley villain who rounded by thick chestnut forests. lived in Seccata.

FRABOSA SOTTANA

P MONTALDO M.VÍ FRABOSA SOPRANA P

S. BARTOLOMEO S. ANNA COLLAREA MONGROSSO C. MOLINERI Bc.Rivoera M.Moro LANZA SERRA

1044 m. 1739 m. BC. MAROLE S. SALVATORE B.Miazzola M.Malanotte CASE GRISERI

1110 m. 1741 m. SECCATA

52 53 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

FROM THE RING OF THE KYÈ 10 FRABOSA SOTTANA - ROCCAFORTE M.VÌ 11 TO THE We are near Roccaforte Mondovì,in VALLI COLLA DEL PREL the Ellero valley, where the Provençal cul- VALLE MONREGALESI ture still offers surprises in the ancient ELLERO Departure from Frabosa Sottana. This itin- idioms of the Kiè language. Beyond the LENGTH erary offers a wide view over the Corsaglia junction for Norea-Prea, follow the Pro- LENGTH km 21 valley and the Maudagna valley. It is vincial Road to Lurisia and 500 metres km 19 ALTITUDE rather difficult but characterised by wonder- later turn left into Via Morà, which gives ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE ful view. The first direction is towards Frabo- the name to the village of departure. DIFFERENCE m 970 sa Soprana. At the first bend, take the off- Follow the itinerary of the road signs. m 880 road track to San Grato on the left, then go The route runs parallel to the Ellero river DURATION DURATION up through a chestnut wood on the left side through the villages of Bertino, Annun- h 3.30 h 3.00 of the Straluzzo stream. Follow the main trail ziata, San Grato, Prea. From here you DIFFICULTY towards Serro. Shortly afterwards enter the arrive at Sant’Anna’s Shrine (1100 m). DIFFICULTY Demanding village and join the tarmac road that climbs Some hairpin bends lead down on a tar- Medium ADVISABLE TIME from Frabosa Sottana. After arriving in the mac road to the junction for Rastello. ADVISABLE TIME From May to October village, cross it as far as Piazza Marconi. Go After crossing the Ellero river, take the old From June to October past Pasquieraux, take the left tunnel (un- off-road track that very soon takes you to der the ski lifts) and climb up to Lanza Villa. Pra Bertel. Near Crocetta (1049 m) the tarmac section Turn right. The off-road track climbs with ends. Follow the off-road track up to a bridge some hairpin bends to Baracco, arriving over the Straluzzo and, under the chair lift, at at the Church of Sant’Antonio and San a junction near a ruined hut. Stay on your Sebastiano. right and cycle along the long uphill stretch Going past the last house of the village over the Corsaglia valley. Go past Tetti Lor- to the left, continue northward in the gane in front of the Mount Moro chair lifts. direction of Norea. The road goes down The main off-road track joins a road that along the village road and after 1 km you climbs up from Fontane. Turn right and a arrive at the hotel and restaurant of short climb will lead you to the Colla del Norea. To go back either take the cycle Prel pass.The return is along the same route. path or the Provincial Road.

P P FRABOSA SOTTANA M.Pelato ROCCAFORTE MONDOVÍ LE GHIRARDE 1098 m.

SERRA I BERTINI FRABOSA SOPRANA

LANZA VILLA ANNUNZIATA LA CROCE

NOREA M.Moro

1739 m. M.Malanotte TETTI LORGONE PREA 1741 m.

PRA BERTEL BARACCO S. ANNA COLLA DEL PREL 54 55 Mountain Bike

ITINERARIES 2. From the narrow path, then turn left on Pian delle Gorre 12 IN VALLE PESIO the tarmac road again. Leave this to the Passo del Duca road immediately after a short From the shelter of the Gorre The Pesio valley marks the border downhill section, where you turn take the mountain road on the ITINERARY 1 between the Monregalese and the Cu- right. Follow the red and white left and go through wonderful LENGTH neo’s area, and despite being a rather signs up to a road (suitable for white fir-tree forests as far as the km 16 short valley (15 km) it offers very interest- vehicles as well). first junction.Turn right and cross ing historic, artistic, environmental and This road leads you to Garava- two streams. ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE gna, then go right and you arrive m 600 natural sites. It is often associated with The path follows an old military the “Regional Natural Park” which pro- at the Murtè Pass. From here road that gradually climbs DURATION tects 7000 hectares of splendid nature cross the road and continue fol- through a forest as far as the h 3.00 with its wonderful forests, the vertical lowing the red and white signs Gias degli Arpi. DIFFICULTY faces of Mount Marguareis, waterfalls, along a gentle path leading to This is a good place to fill up your Not demanding Karst-plateaux and its very rich flora and the Pilone di Olocco. Head for bottles. ADVISABLE TIME fauna. Besides the park , the valley is also the village of Fuggin and then Climb up the wide hairpin bends From April to November famous for its Certosa of Santa Maria to some other abandoned villa- to the Prel Pass, a nice pasture (1173 A.D.), which is worth to visit espe- ges. Join a climbing road (rather ridge. cially for the interesting ancient church, demanding) as far as the junc- From here the path becomes ITINERARY 2 the cloister and the monks’ rooms. tion for Colletto. harder as far as the Duca Pass. LENGTH For mountain bike fans we suggest three From Colletto you can enjoy a On the descent the bravest can km 11 itineraries: two along the lower part of wonderful view over the valley. It follow a technically difficult path ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE the valley between Chiusa Pesio, Villa- is the ideal place for a stop and a that leads to the Marguareis m 1000 nova Mondovì and the Certosa and one little chat with the friendly local valley. in the very heart of the park from Pian people. Continue downhill; we For better trained cyclists there is DURATION delle Gorre to the Duca Pass. advise you to ignore the sign to a path to Limone, from the Du- h 3.00 San Paolo, if you lack of good ca Pass to the Gias delle Or- DIFFICULTY 1. From Chiusa Pesio training. tiche and then to the Capanna Demanding to the Certosa Go to the junction after S. Bar- Morgantini shelter. ADVISABLE TIME From Chiusa Pesio follow the signs to tolomeo and join the Natural From here another path leads to From May to October Mirabello Castle with its wonderful pa- Itinerary of the park that leads the Perla Pass along the military norama over the valley.After reaching the you to the Certosa di Pesio with- road between Limone and Mo- castle, go round Mount Canavero on a out further climbs. nesi.

CHIUSA DI PESIO PIAN DELLE GORRE

PIAN DE CARDELE

FIOLERA Gias degli Arpi

1435 m. S. BARTOLOMEO

Colle del Prel

MADONNA 1925 m. DEI BOSCHI CERTOSA PASSO DEL DUCA DI PESIO

56 57 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

ITINERARIES THE RING OF IN VALLE PESIO BISALTA MOUNTAIN 13 3. From Villanova Mondovì This demanding route is the itinerary of the ITINERARY 3 to the Colle del Murtè long-distance race known as “Mtb Bisal- LENGTH LENGTH (and then up to Certosa) ta Bike”. It offers anything a mountain km 51.6 km 12 This long itinerary has a departure on the biker could ask for, such as gradual or very ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE (to the Colle del Murtè) plain and, without difficult climbs, leads difficult climbs, wide off-road tracks or nar- m 720 ALTITUDE cyclists to the Certosa di Pesio in the row mule-tracks, fast downhills or techni- MAXIMUM ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE heart of the National Park. From Villa- cally difficult ones on uneven ground. m 2003 From Rivoira go down to Boves, proceed m 500 nova follow the signs to Grotta dei Dossi DURATION (Dossi Cave). At the cave take the road to Cerati and before the short climb of the DURATION Pilone del Moro, climbed in the Giro h 3.00 behind it and start climbing. h 3.00 d’Italia in 2002, turn right on a large off- At the first junction turn left and climb DIFFICULTY DIFFICULTY road track immersed in wonderful chestnut Demanding the tarmac road that climbs from Vil- Not demanding forests. You will arrive at Prato del So- lavecchia to Mount Calvario. Proceed ADVISABLE TIME glio. Go in the direction of Rosbella.After ADVISABLE TIME along this road as far as the farm holiday From May to October From April to November this nice village, start climbing as far as in Caporale, a spendid panoramic place. Rocca Francia. An exciting downhill will Take the off-road track on your left before lead you to Castellar. From here, along the farm holiday, and go downhill the tarmac road again, climb to Filibert through a chestnut forest. At the junction and then continue on the off-road track up turn right and you arrive in the village of to the highest and more panoramic point Garavagna. Go past the church and of this itinerary (1430 m). From Fontana take the tarmac road to for a Cappa take the steep downhill, starting on short section, then turn right and leave uneven ground but which improves as you the tarmac. From here, proceed along the near the Pilone Ballagarda. From here main off-road track as far as the Murtè continue along the tarmac road up to Pass between Chiusa Pesio and Roc- Peveragno. Going up, you arrive in Via caforte Mondovì. Those who are more Grima. Take the off-track again. A last trained can follow the itinerary 1 which climb leads you to the Cumba area, from has been described on page 58. here go downhill to Rivoira.

PEVERAGNO BOVES S. GIOVENALE

RIVOIRA

VILLANOVA MONDOVÌ MADONNA DEI BOSCHI

M. Calvario

814 m. MALANDRE CASTELLAR

ROBILANTE S. GIACOMO

COLLE DEL MORTÈ

58 59 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

nesi. Go past Mangeria di THE SALT ROAD Loxe and at the first junction climb up towards Mount Sac- 14 FROM LIMONE towards the Lago dei Signori carello. At the second junction Pass (dried up) along the Pian turn right in the direction of the TO BRIGA Ambreuge. From the pass (post Tanarello Pass (52 km), where BETWEEN ITALY 327) go left along a path leading there are the ruins of some mili- AND FRANCE One of the most famous routes of this to Carnino. The uneven road is tary fortifications. Another 1 km area, known in Italian as the “Via del sa- demanding as far as an altitude of difficult path. The direction is LENGTH le” for the continuous trades between of 2290 m (32.8 km), but from towards the Collardente Pass, km 76 France and Italy, built in the 16th century here you will be able to enjoy a then straight on towards a wood. ALTITUDE during the Savoy Period, it has been unique panorama over the Fla- Then go downhill to the Guardia DIFFERENCE recently restored by 300 volounteers magal Pass and the Valley of Pass and the Baisse de Sanson m 1650 belonging to the “Operazione Alte Vie” Maestri. The road improves. (60.5 km and post 272a). On the Project (High Roads Operation Project). You arrive at the Celle Vieille plateau go right towards the DURATION An itinerary of 76 km along the valleys of Pass (36.6 km) from where there fountain (fontan dux) and the h 7.00 Limone and Monesi, the widest Karst- is a path going to the Peak of Linaire Pass (64.7 km). DIFFICULTY area of Europe and through one of the l’Evèque on the right. The route becomes more relaxing Very demanding most beautiful forests of the province. Go through the Navette forest along a wide tarmac road. At the ADVISABLE TIME Departure from Limone station. Go past towards the wildlife area of Na- Chapel of Notre Dame des From June to October the village along the Tenda Pass State vette (42.2 km) Through forests Gonatines, we suggest the mi- Road 20 towards “Quota 1400” and the and across meadows, go past nor road (Route de l’Amitié, 67.6 French border. From here turn left along Pian dei Termi, Pian dei Giai- km). Head for the Ru Sec valley the off-road track into Via Marenga (or reto, Costa Peiron, and Costa in the direction of La Brigue. Via del sale). Climb to the Campanino Ventosa, and you arrive in the Following the Levenza river head Pass (2142 m, 18.5 km). On uneven Tanarello valley (48 km), from for St. Dalmas de .You ground head north as far as a panoramic where you can see Mount Mac- will arrive at the station after a point before the Boaria Pass. Enjoy the carello and the village of Mo- total distance of 76 km. view of the nice meadows in the Ma- laberga valley towards the Capanna Morgantini; the climb becomes difficult because of the uneven ground up to an altitude of 2250 m. This is the rocky spur of Castel Chevolail. The direction is

COLLE DI TENDA COLLE CAMPANINO

1871 m. COLLE BOARIA COLLA PIANA 2142 m. COLLE LAGO D. SIGNORI 2105 m. 2237 m.

LA BRIGUE (BRIGA) PASSO DI COLLARDENTE

BAISSE DE SANSON

60 61 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

FROM FROM ENTRACQUE 15 ENTRACQUE TO TO VALERA 16 TETTO COLLETTA The first part of this itinerary is recom- VALLE mended for beginners, since it requires a VALLE GESSO This is a short itinerary but a very deman- limited physical effort. After crossing the GESSO ding one. Crowned by the massif of Ar- village of Entracque, take the Strada DEPARTURE’S gentera mountain, it is a wonderful route Sartaria near the Chapel of Cornaletto. START ALTITUDINE ALTITUDE across uniquely beautiful nature. After 100 m of tarmac road head towards m 904 From Entracque, along Corso Francia, m 904 Ponte di Porcera on a very good off- MAXIMUM ALTITUDE MAXIMUM ALTITUDE head for St. Antonio’s Chapel from where road track. This off-road section becomes m 1600 abt m 1200 abt you take the old off-road track climbing more demanding and crosses the Ponte steeply up the slopes of Mount Lausa. del Souffiet over the same stream ALTITUDE ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Cross an old stone bridge over a stream (1185 m). The route gains altitude, goes DIFFERENCE and turn off the path leading towards m 700 abt m 300 abt through a beech wood and across some 100% biking going up Tetti Stramodin. Proceed along the rocky sections of the Costa Cornet as far 80% biking going up side of the mountain and after a flat sec- 100% biking coming down 90% biking coming down as the Gias dell’Ischietta. Better trai- tion the off-road track goes down to ned cyclists can head for the Valley of DURATION DURATION another stream flowing from the Gorge Sabbione leaving the Gias to their right. h 4.00 h 2.00 della Reina. The mule-track continues towards the Head for Tetto Violino. Just before you stream as far as the Gias Sottano della arrive at the village, take the detour fol- Valera (1517 m), while the valley heads lowing the orographic left of the Rio della south with a wide bend. Then the path Reina stream and climb up to the Gorge heads for the plain of Valera and contin- della Reina and the Pian del Funs,at ues by the side of the stream as far as a the start of the “Via Ferrata ” named wooden bridge at an altitude of 1600 m. “Ico Quaranta”. Go back to the Ponte di Porcera from From Tetto violino the mule-track cuts where you will arrive in Tetto Porcera, across and leads to Tetto Colletta Sot- near the Bossuet river. A few minutes tana along a tarmac road. Near St. later, following the gradual downhill road, Lucia’s Church join the road heading for you will reach the village of and the village. then soon afterwards Entraque.

ENTRACQUE

1 S. ROCCO S. LUCIA 4

ENTRACQUE 2 3 1 TRINITÀ GIANOLA GORGE DELLA REINA

3

2 Casotto del Parco T.to Ciau

1350 m. 999 m.

S. LUCIA 4 C.ma Balmasca

2301 m. Gias della Valera

62 63 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

FROM THE THE RING 17 GARDETTA SHELTER OF PIETRAPORZIO 18 TO FERRIERE Departure from Piazza Mario Bertone in VALLE Pietraporzio. After crossing the bridge VALLE STURA The Gardetta shelter is at an altitude of on the Stura river, head for the Piz valley STURA 2335 m above m.s.l. This itinerary starts from along a tarmac road. LENGTH here uphill along the ex-military road which Going past the diversions to Sambuco LENGTH km 17 joins the Unerzio valley. The first section is and Pontebernardo, cross the river along km 17 rather stony. You cycle along the side of ALTITUDE hairpin bends. ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE Rocca Brancia mountain. You may have to The road is steep. Cross the river again DIFFERENCE m 600 get off your bike twice to pass some rocks on and you arrive at the Piano della Re- m 1050 the path. Continue climbing as far as the gina, where you may encounter grazing DIFFICULTY DIFFICULTY panoramic Rocca Brancia Pass. Then go deers. After the off-road-track, take an Very demanding Very demanding down along the other side of the mountain, uneven road again: it is a difficult climb ADVISABLE TIME staying on the uphill side of the military forti- through a larch forest. ADVISABLE TIME From May to October fications that you encounter. Now the di- Two hairpin bends lead you near some From May to October rection is towards Bassa di Terrarossa fortifications where the road narrows. downhill on the right. There are difficult win- Head uphill for Lake Lausarel going ding roads across meadows and through pine past a huge larch. forests. Continue downhill as far as an off- Turn off the road to the Gias del Piz and road track towards the State Road near the head for a little fort and then towards ski resort. In Bersezio, at the junction for Fer- the Passo Sottano di Scolettas riere the road starts climbing again. After which joins the Pontebernardo valley. some hairpin bends, you arrive in the Valley Go right, following the signs to the Ta- of Anderplan, after an easy panoramic sec- larico shelter. tion. At the top of the valley there is a spring. The downhill becomes difficult with Beyond it, continue through a larch forest and demanding hairpin bends. Near the after another few hundread metre climb you mountain health resort, at the junction will arrive in the Ferriere valley. Then go for Pontebernardo turn right and follow downhill as far as the junction for Ferriere,a the signs to Lou Balaour. Head for mountain village at an altitude of 1888 m. Pietraporzio where this itinerary ends.

PIETRAPORZIO

PASSO DELLA GARDETTA 1312 m. P.SO ROCCA BRANCIA

2347 m. P.TA DI BALAOUR 2620 m.

M. ARPETTO 2270 m.

TESTA DELL’IRETTA M. OSEROT 2450 m. PRATI DEL VALLONE 2189 m. C.MA DEL ROUSS 2860 m. BASSA DI L. OSEROT TERRA ROSSA BERSEZIO 1718 m. 2604 m. GIAS 2426 m. 1624 m. DELL’OSEROT COSTABELLA DEL PIZ

2599 m. L. DI LAUSAREL P.SO SOTTANO SERVAGNO PRINARDO DELLE SCOLETTAS FERRIERE GIAS DEL PIZ 1898 m.

1461 m. C. SERRE 2223 m. 1888 m. 2042 m. 64 65 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

THE RING FROM 19 OF BERSEZIO VINADIO TO 20 Departure from Bersezio, a village built SANT’ANNA SHRINE VALLE around the Romanesque Church of San VALLE STURA Lorenzo. This holy building used to be a This is an itinerary for experts. Start from Vi- STURA rest point for pilgrims heading for San- nadio and take the road that goes down LENGTH tiago of Compostela or Rome. towards the Colle della Maddalena as far LENGTH km 21 Following the road signs to Ferriere, climb as the junction for the Lombarda Pass. Turn km 45 ALTITUDE up the tarmac road on high difficult hair- left and, after reaching Pratolungo, start ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE pin bends. In the valley, you arrive at a climbing into Sant’Anna’s valley. Thirteen nar- DIFFERENCE m 1000 pass from where you can see the highest row hairpin bends lead to Puà. Beyond the m 1600 point served by Bersezio ski lifts. This itin- junction for Case Aie, this itinerary becomes DIFFICULTY DIFFICULTY erary is not very demanding as far as the more difficult. Keep climbing up to Barac- Very demanding Very demanding Gias di Colombari. After crossing the cone. A flat section allows cyclists to recover ADVISABLE TIME stream, pass onto a grassy road and a some energy while looking at the Shrine of ADVISABLE TIME From May to October mule-track on the left.At the junction you Sant’Anna, the highest shrine in Europe. From May to October may have to get off your bike to go Some hairpin bends lead you to the junction across Bassa di Colombari. for the Lombarda Pass on one side, and for Then on your bike again on the crest of Sant’Anna on the other. First turn right and the valley, and off again to go round it then left on the off-road track that climbs to uphill on the left. On your bike again, the Orgials Alp. The direction is towards the head for Anderplan Pass to the south Colle della Lombarda with narrow hairpin of Cima delle Lose mountain. The road bends going uphill. This spectacular section faces the ski resort of Argentera. follows the panoramic crest that marks the On foot again on the stony path as far as border between Italy and France. Then follow the service road of the ski resort. Follow the mule-track in front of Mount Moravac- it and go across the Incianao Pass. From ciera.You may have to get off your bike along here, down difficult slopes, along trails a technical and tiring downhill section. Then and through a larch forest, you reach the head for Sant’Anna’s Lake and Shrine Ferriere road at the first hairpin bends at along the former military road and you arrive the beginning of this itinerary. at the starting point on the tarmac road.

BARACCONE P.TA MALADECIA

GRANGE ARGENTERA R.CA BRAVARIA 1533 m. 2745 m.

1684 m. 2550 m. 1769 m. TESTA GIAS DEI LAGHI PASSO BRAVARIA

2739 m. 2311 m. BERSEZIO R.CCA S. GIOVANNI C.TO INCIANO LA MALGHERIA 1624 m. 2409 m. S. ANNA DI VINADIO 1908 m. 2292 m. 2010 m. LAG0 D’ORGIALS 2243 m. LAGO DI S. ANNA LAGO DI COLLETTO C.LLE S. ANNA ANDERPLAN 2156 m. LAGHI D’ORGIALS BASSA DI C.MA MORAVACCIERA C. LE DI PURIAC COLOMBART 2628 m. 2407 m. 2506 m. 2464 m. FERRIERE C.LE DI S. ANNA C.LLE DELLA LOMBARDA TESTA GIAS DEL CAVAL 2329 m. 1888 m. 2308 m. 2351 m. 66 67 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

tarmac road to Valgrana. Pro- ITINERARIES ceed as far as Armandi where the off-road track starts and runs 21 second world war, and to Chiot- IN VALLE GRANA by the Grana river (in the oppo- ti. Beyond Prarobert, you join site direction). After the cemetery Rampignado the road going up to the Ortiga LENGTH of Monterosso Grana (with Pass. A very technical trail, with km 21 This is the itinerary of the permanent 15th century frescoes by Balaj- difficult passages as well, leads long-distance race known as “Rampi- son), cross the Ponte dell’Angelo ALTITUDE to the Alpe,“Cima Coppi”of DIFFERENCE gnado”. Follow the indications along the (Angel’s bridge) and go through this itinerary at an altitude of m 970 route. the castle entrance. On your right 1796 m. From here a winding Good training is required for this de- there is an uphill path to the DURATION downhill section leads again to h 3.30 manding stage.We also suggest spare hot Chapel of Madonna della Ne- Chiot Rosa, then to San Mat- clothes in case of uncertain weather. ve. A short downhill “single- DIFFICULTY teo, Tetto Chiapello and Val- “Rampignado” starts from Bernezzo track” joins the road that goes up Demanding lera of Caraglio. (575 m) and covers 55 km with several to Piatta of Montemale. Turn ADVISABLE TIME Along a tarmac small road you detour possibilities which also allow to left and climb up as far as an off- From May to October will arrive to Bernezzo at the end cover minor sections. road track that leads to Damiani of this itinerary. You meet the first impressive off-road (1209 m). Then there is a down- climb after passing Roata Maggiore. Around Caraglio hill section as far as the junction Then go from Cervasca to Aranzone. for Cortese Sottana, and little The climb continues along Prato Francia This is a panoramic and not very climbs to Montemale and San as far as the first peak which is the Pito- demanding route, ideal at the Giorgio, where you meet the nera Pass 1250 m, 11 km from Bernezzo beginning of the season. You tarmac road again. The direction at the water parting between the Grana warm yourselves by cycling along is towards Bottonasco and Ser- valley and the Stura valley. the small road from Caraglio to re Alladio. From here, along an A short downhill section leads to Chiot the slopes of Mount Tamone, off-road track again, you can Rosa where you start climbing again up a and precisely to the village of climb from the Pilone dei Ber- wide road used by mountain breeders Vallera.Turn right and follow the gè to Caraglio Castle. during summer.Then go up to the villages of Tintina and Paralup (1330 m), me- morial places of the Partisan Period of the

CARAGLIO

VALLERA

C.S. MATTEO CERVASCA BERNEZZO

ARPIOLA COLLE PITONERA ARANZONE L’ALPE C. ORTIGA CHIOT ROSA BERGIA C.R. RADEVIL PARALOUP CHIOTTI P. COLET PRAROBERT M. GORGIA SAGNE

68 69 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

COLLE COLLE 22 DELLA BATTAGLIOLA DELLA BICOCCA 23 Although this itinerary is rather modest in A gorgeous route with a tarmac starting VALLE terms of kilometres and altitude, the rusult section to the Shrine of Valmala and a long VALLE VARAITA is nevertheless demanding because of the high part along the ex-military road with a VARAITA high average gradient of the former military good surface and modest global gradient. DEPARTURE’ ALTITUDE road that you will follow. Leaving beyond From Valcurta follow the signs to the START ALTITUDINE m 1296 Casteldelfino, turn off the Provincial Shrine of Valmala. The tarmac road m 656 ALTITUDE Road to the Agnello Pass and on your abruptly climbs up to the Shrine. Continue ALTITUDE DIFFERENCE bike follow the road up the Bellino valley.At on an off-road track that bends to the left DIFFERENCE m 994 the second hairpin bend, beyond the small and gains altitude by crossing an alpine ski m 1600 village of Chiesa, turn right. The roads slope with a short but steep skirt. Back on DURATION DURATION turns into a very good off-road track. After the tarmac for a short section up to the h 4.00 h 7.00 a steep climb, and after cycling through a Ciabra Pass. Go straight along the south DIFFICULTY wood, at the junction turn left and go up side of the water parting ridge between the DIFFICULTY Demanding/ following the signs to the Battagliola Maira and the Varaita valleys. Then climb Demanding/ very demanding Pass westward. From here you can enjoy a again along the hairpin bends of Mount very demanding ADVISABLE TIME great view on Monviso mountain and over Rastcias. After a flat section, you will ar- ADVISABLE TIME From June to September the water parting between the Varaita val- rive at the Sampeyre Pass. Then straight From May to September ley and the Maira valley. The two valleys on taking a very good off-road track (suit- played a part in the Secession War that able for vehicles as well). You will arrive at inflamed Europe between 1740-48. Go the Bicocca Pass soon afterwards. The down towards the lake of Castello along present itinerary overlaps the old “Strada the path going through the thick alder dei cannoni” (“road of the cannons”) dat- bushes. Then you arrive in Pontechianale. ing back to the 18th century and offers a Cycling by the lake along path U70, cross wonderful panorama. Go down to the right the dam and join the tarmac Provincial and take a path that very soon loses height Road as far as Casermette. From here until you arrive in Bellino’s church. After take the cycle path again and follow the old joining the tarmac road again, go down village road, the ancient “Chemin Royal”, towards Casteldelfino and Sampeyre, which leads back to Casteldelfino. and to the starting point.

PONTECHIANALE

PUSTERLE INF.E CASTELDELFINO CASTELLO FRASSINO CALDANE SAMPEYRE MELLE PUNTA DELLA RORE VALMALA BATTAGLIOLA RIBIERA PUSTERLE COLLETTO SUP.E DELLA BATTAGLIOLA TORRETTE P. DEL CAVALLO

C.MA DELLE SERRE CASTELDELFINO C.LLE DI SAMPEYRE CHIOT GARIN CIMA LUBIN O DELLE MERIS RIBIERA BALZ PUSTERLE INFERIORE

PLEYNE PUSTERLE SUPERIORE CHIESA

70 71 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

with little climbs on a good off- THE TOUR road track that follows the fire join the steep tarmac road Via protection track in the direction 24 OF MONBRACCO Vola that climbs towards Pian of San Bernardo’s Chapel. MOUNTAIN Luis and Rocca del Salto on Then follow the technical and VALLE the right. Join the itinerary called exciting path on the crest in the “La Montagna di Leonardo” direction of Croce di . PO “Leonardo’s Mountain” (“Leonardo’s Mountain”), pro- Before arriving in Croce, go LENGTH Relive the emotions of Leonardo da Vinci ceed to the ancient Convent of down along a steep off-road km 35 who wrote about Monbracco mountain the Trappa dating back to the track leading to after ALTITUDE in 1511. 13th century (accomodation and about two kilometres. Cross the DIFFERENCE This is a land rich in geology, flora and m 1250 food on request). village and follow the signs to – m 800 the first stretch fauna, and art; a land also marked by the Continue cycling along the route . – m 400 the second stretch expert work of man. DURATION Departure from Sanfront (470 m above 1-2 days (according to the m.s.l.). Proceed in the direction of Roc- level of preparation) chetta following the itinerary by the DIFFICULTY river Po (a possible detour leads to the Demanding (difficult at Villaggio Ecomuseo of Balma Boves timrs) with a demanding climb up to an altitude ADVISABLE TIME of 650 m). From Marc to October From Rocchetta (572 m) climb up the via delle cave (cave road) as far as the left turn towards the Colletta di Paesana Pass along fast off-road tracks. Proceed downhill for some kilometres on an off-road track with spectacular “single- track” sections as far as Mondarello di Barge. Cross a bridge without railing and

ACHE

ELLE MON D PIAN

MONTE BRACCO

1276 m.

TTA

COMBE

SANFRONT RIFREDDO 72 73 Mountain Bike Mountain Bike

Follow this pleasant itinerary MONVISO with interest, and you will be- 25 MOUNTAIN HORIZON come part of the history of this you will be able to enjoy the land, and thinking of the huge Departure from Paesana with a total panoramic view of the massif of work of nature and man, you will VALLE distance of 70 km to cover.We advise you Monviso. From here go to Pae- discover a new inner dimension. PO to split it in two stages: Paesana, On- sana, crossing several alpine vil- Along this route there are many cino, Crissolo (35 km) and Crissolo, lages. sites of worship belonging to the LENGTH Ostana, Paesana (35 km). The lands of the Po, Bronda ancient local alpine communi- km 70 This is one of the most fancied routes, and Infernotto valleys are ties. You can rest for a few min- – km 35 the first stretch characterised by the unique pro- utes under the porch of a solitary –km35the second stretch since it offers very good off-road tracks on even ground and several cultural and file of Monviso mountain, which chapel or in front of a roadside ALTITUDE artistic sites along the way. can be seen from any corner of statue, or you can try and imag- DIFFERENCE ine the people of the ancient, This is a ring route which connects the the plain: the ever m 1450 present familiar pyramid on the populous villages gathering to four villages of the higher Po valley, – m 975 first half horizon.Along the route in the Po ask for Our Lady’s or the – m 475 second half that is to say Oncino, Crissolo, Ostana valley there are several itineraries Saints’ protection. The “Oriz- and Paesana, under the spectacular size DURATION indicated as “Orizzonte Mon- zonte Monviso” tracks offer visi- of Monviso mountain, the “King of 1-2 days (according to the viso” (Monviso Horizon). Follow tors the possibility of tours Stone” of the Cozzian Alps. The first sec- level of preparation) them and you will discover typical among startling nature and DIFFICULTY tion towards Oncino has an altitude dif- villages and architecture, ancient wildlife, thus broadening their – Demanding ference of 886 m in about 25 km, after tales and legends, while going to vision of these “high lands” of the first stretch which you will cycle at an altitude the Source of the river Po. the Po valley. – Medium between the 1500 m of the Pian Munè the second stretch and the 1220 m of Oncino. ADVISABLE TIME Proceed along secondary roads and From May to October tracks. From Oncino the direction is towards the tourist village of Crissolo. Then towards the ridge on the left of the river Po, skirting several mountain chur- ches and some examples of local archi- tecture, you arrive in Ostana from where

OSTANA

CRISSOLO

ONCINO PAESANA

74 75 The scheme directly involves tourist Cuneo operators who are invited to give cyclists an all inclusive service of lo- Bike cal and cycling guides, bicycle hire facilities, as well as the traditional accomodation and catering services. Hotels The hotels have to comply with cer- It is the first group tain standards in order to be part of of hotels in the the group of the Bike Hotels: Province of Cuneo • bicycles for hire that provides • a guarded storehouse • bicycle-maintenance services specifically workshop area designed for • printed itineraries cyclists. and tourism-cycling guide • special cyclist menus emphasizing the local eno-gastronomy and cuisine. The second part of the scheme has chosen itineraries linking the vari- ous Bike Hotels (see pag. 34) Each route responds to different tourism-cycling interests, this is the reason why they are classified ac- cording to their difficulty. They also try to highlight all the natural, sports Information and reservations: and cultural aspects ot this area. Cônitours Consorzio Operatori Turistici Provincia di Cuneo Ph. +39.0171.698749 - 696206 - Fax +39.0171.435728 www.cuneobikehotels.it - [email protected]

76 77 The Bike Hotels of the Province of Cuneo

6. ALBERGO COMMERCIO 11. ALBERGO 16. TRATTORIA ★★★ LE GINESTRE ★★★ FERMATA CERETTO ★★★ 1. HOTEL PORTICI ★★★ Borgata Norea, 8 Via Nizza, 68 Fraz. San Martino, 17 Piazza Carlo Emanuele, 47 12088 Roccaforte Mondovì 12015 Limone Piemonte 12022 Busca 12080 Vicoforte Ph. +39 0174 65549 Ph. +39 0171 927596 Ph. +39 0171 945437 Ph. +39 0174 563980 Fax +39 0174 65621 Fax +39 0171 927597 Fax +39 0171 943256 Fax +39 0174 569027 www.hotelcommercio.it www.hotelginestre.com www.cuneohotel.it www.hotelportici.com [email protected] [email protected] N. of rooms: 19 – N. of beds: 38 [email protected] N. of rooms: 47 – N. of beds: 90 N. of rooms: 18 – N. of beds: 36 N. of beds: 62 17. HOTEL MONTE NEBIN 7. ALBERGO MIRAMONTI 12. RESIDENCE LIMONTE ★★★ ★★★ 2. NUOVO PARK HOTEL ★★★ ★★★ Piazza Risorgimento, 10 Via Cavour, 26 Via Delvecchio, 2 Via Roma, 82 12015 Limone Piemonte 12020 Sampeyre 12084 Mondovì 12082 Frabosa Soprana Ph. +39 0171 926965 Ph. +39 0175 977112 Ph. +39 0174 46666 Ph. +39 0174 244533 Fax +39 0171 926994 Fax +39 0175 977510 Fax +39 0174 47771 Fax +39 0174 244534 www.limoneresidence.it www.hotelmontenebin.it www.parkhotel.cn.it www.miramonti.cn.it [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] N. Apart.: 40 – N. of beds: 155 N. of rooms: 64 – N. of beds: 120 N. of rooms: 54 – N. of beds: 90 N. of rooms: 47 – N. of beds: 90 13. LOCANDA OCCITANA 18. ALBERGO GIARDINO 3. CENTRO INCONTRI 8. ALBERGO DEL SOLE ★★ DELLA REJNO JANO DEI TIGLI ★★★ NUOVO BEILA Via Ponte, 18 Fraz. Miroglio Via Nazionale, 14 Fraz. Cussanio, 16/B Via Villanova, 11 12083 Frabosa Sottana 12014 Demonte 12045 Fossano 12084 Mondovì Ph. +39 0174 244072 Ph. +39 0171 95142 Ph. +39 0172 691575 Ph. +39 0174 42622 Fax +39 0174 244072 Fax +39 0171 950756 Fax +39 0172 694963 Fax +39 0174 555082 N. of rooms: 25 – N. of beds: 40 www.cuneohotel.it www.cuneohotel.it www.nuovobeila.it N. of rooms: 7 – N. of beds: 21 N. of rooms: 39 – N. of beds: 90 N. of rooms: 53 – N. of beds: 100 ★★★ 9. HOTEL DELLE ALPI 14. ALBERGO DELLA PACE 19. HOTEL LA CASCINA DI 4. ALBERGO NAZIONALE ★★★ Via Maudagna, 25 Fraz. Miroglio ★★★ VILLA 2 ★★★ Via S.Anna, 111 Loc. San Giacomo 12083 Frabosa Sottana Via Umberto I, 38 Regione Oltretanaro 12080 Roburent Ph. +39 0174 244043 12010 Sambuco 12068 Narzole Ph. +39 0174 227127 Fax +39 0174 244066 Ph. +39 0171 96550 Ph. +39 0173 776277 Fax +39 0174 227127 www.cuneohotel.it Fax +39 0171 96628 Fax +39 0173 729042 www.nobru.it [email protected] www.cuneohotel.it www.cascinadivilladue.it [email protected] N. of rooms: 21 – N. of beds: 40 N. of rooms: 11 – N. of beds: 22 [email protected] N. of rooms: 33 – N. of beds: 90 N. of rooms: 12 – N. of beds: 24 10. ALBERGO 15. ALBERGO QUADRIFOGLIO 5. HOTEL REALE ★★★ CANNON D’ORO ★★★ ★★★ 20. HOTEL OASIS ★★★ Via delle Terme, 13 Lurisia Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 9 Via Comitato Liberaz. Nazionale, 20 Via Po, 28 12088 Roccaforte Mondovì 12013 Chiusa Pesio 12023 Caraglio 12011 Borgo San Dalmazzo Ph. +39 0174 583005 Ph. +39 0171 734695 Ph. +39 0171 817666 Ph. +39 0171 262121 Fax +39 0174 583004 Fax +39 0171 735543 Fax +39 0171 817666 Fax +39 0171 262680 www.hotelreale.it www.albergocannondoro.it www.hotel-quadrifoglio.it www.oasishotelcuneo.com [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] N. of rooms: 80 – N. of beds: 170 N. of rooms: 28 – N. of beds: 60 N. of rooms: 40 – N. of beds: 80 N. of rooms: 47 – N. of beds: 81 78 79 THE ATL DEL CUNEESE PRESENTS

16,000 m2 of fair to give hospitality to the most spectacular event in the world about cycling tourism, running and the open air sports. Every Mai the Cuneo Walk&Bike Show. Exposition and sale of bicycles, technical material, clothing, tourist area and the great gastronomy and wine production with sale and tasting of typical products of Cuneo territory and the restaurant in the fair centre. This is going to be the core of the fair which is going to give hospitality to the indoor spaces for 150 Spinning bikes, the Fitwalking carpets, the Bike-Trial, the BMX and the 500 show area seats. Moreover, the 2 routes for the Walking European Club Challenge, the indoor lighted ring for the competitions and the MTB trials are going to intersect the show spaces and the sports activities. Moreover, there are going to be competitions, meetings with sports champions, technical workshops, challenges against the champions and against ourselves. Everything is going to be seasoned by music animation, The greatest event in the world about cabaret, the ‘Letterine’ girls of the film ‘Natale sul Nilo’, cycling tourism and the open air sports the comedians of ‘Zelig’ show, the Occitan tradition of Cuneo territory and other special guests. IN CUNEO ON MAY MIAC FAIR CENTRE FREE ENTRANCE

81 CYCLE EVENTS

VALDIERI BIKE RUN BISALTA BIKE IRON BIKE GIRO DELLE Valdieri – May Boves - fr. Rivoira – June Saluzzo – July VALLI CUNEESI An exciting running and moun- This mountain bike competition An international stage competi- August tain bike competition in the spec- takes place around the hills of tion for extreme mountain bikers. A historical race in 6 stages along tacular cutting of the Park of the Boves and offers two itineraries: The route, the altitude and alti- the wonderful alpine itineraries Maritime Alps. It has a town itin- a long-distance race of 44 km tude differences will be given of the valleys of the Province of erary and a mixed mountain bike (with a total altitude difference of only on the starting day with the Cuneo. route. The race starts with a 5 km 1670 m) and a shorter route of road-book delivery. Until then, Information and registration: running section, continues with 29.3 km (with an altitude differ- competitors know only the name Mr Lorenzo Tealdi 18 km of mountain bike and ends ence of 955 m). of the stage towns. Every year the ph. +39.0174.44225 with another 3 km running. Information and registration: organization chooses new routes +39.335.8333306 Information and registration: ph. +39.338.8934774, to make the competition con- fax +39.0174.552515 Mr Gianluca Barale - ph. +39.335.6948867 +39.329.2161285, +39.347.7173588 stantly new and exciting. Mr Emanuele Lovera - ph. +39.347.7835926 www.comunediboves.it/sport/mountainbike Information: RAMPIGNADO Bar Sport Valdieri - ph. +39.0171.97175 www.bisaltabike.it Organizzazione Iron Bike The Grana Valley – September [email protected] ph. +39.0171.697456 FAUSTO COPPI (Monday - Friday afternoon) A mythic long-distance race for GIRO DELLE Promocuneo mountain bikers, among the most Cuneo – July VALLI MONREGALESI ph. +39.0171.698388 beautiful and complete of the A historical race following the fax +39.0171.436903 Italian panorama. Every year Mondovì – May legendary Fausto Coppi. This www.ironbike.it - [email protected] Italian and foreign bikers meet in This competition, which has been competition follows a wonderful the Grana valley to take part in successfully organised by the “Ciclo itinerary which offers three differ- this “festival”. It is a unique race Amateurs” association of Mondovi ent options: long-distance (210 that cannot be missed especially for years, offers two racing itiner- km in 2003), medium-distance for the beauty of its landscapes, aries (a long-distance race of 160 (90 km), and tourist-cycling (50 the warm welcome of the local km and a medium-distance race of km). A very demanding but fasci- people and the interesting events 115 km) in addition to a further nating cycle marathon up and joined to it. tourist-cycling route of 65 km. down the Cuneesi valleys. Information: Information: Information: www.vallegrana.it Ciclo Amateurs, Corso Statuto 26 A.S. La Fausto Coppi [email protected] 12084 Mondovì (CN) ph. +39.0171.690269 - +39.338.3794609 ph. +39.0171.619492 ph. +39.348.0404431 (Mr Luca) Fax +39.0171.488459 www.rampignado.com ph. +39.348.7801601 (Mr Pizzi) www.faustocoppi.net [email protected] ph. +39.348.0404432 (Mr Giovanni) [email protected] ph. +39.0171.683265 fax +39.0174.554016 - +39.0174.551509 - +39.0174.552737 www.cicloamateurs.it [email protected] 82 83 ,, CUNEO S

TOURIST-CYCLING DISTRICT ▼

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INFO A.T.L. Azienda Turistica Locale del Cuneese Via Vittorio Amedeo II, 13 - 12100 Cuneo Ph. +39.0171.690217 - fax +39.0171.602773 e-mail: [email protected] - website: www.autunnocongusto.com website: www.cuneoholiday.com Cuneo Levaldigi Airport Ph. +39.0172.374374 - fax +39.0172.374300 e-mail: [email protected] - website: www.aeroporto.cuneo.it

HOTEL INFO & BOOKING CONITOURS - Cuneo Ph. +39.0171.698749 - fax +39.0171.435728 - e-mail: [email protected] CONSORZIO TURISTICO ALPI DEL MARE - Vicoforte Mondovì Ph. +39.0174.569016 - fax +39.0174.565928 TORTUGA VIAGGI – Fossano Ph. +39.0172.636112 - fax +39.0172.634770 - e-mail: [email protected] TRAVEL & COMMUNICATION - Cuneo Ph. +39.0171.601632 - fax +39.0171.453175 - e-mail: [email protected] VENUS VIAGGI - Cuneo Ph. +39.0171.696256 - fax +39.0171.698730 - e-mail: [email protected] A Copy € 0.30 84