4.3
(152)
1,191
riders
55
rides
Gravel biking around Besnate offers access to diverse terrain and scenic routes in the Varese province of Italy. The region is characterized by a mix of challenging climbs and engaging dirt roads, providing varied surfaces with both paved and unpaved sections. Surrounding landscapes enhance the gravel biking experience, appealing to those seeking direct contact with nature away from traffic. This area provides a rich environment for exploring landscapes and enjoying outdoor pursuits.
Last updated: October 6, 2026
4.2
(6)
29
riders
48.9km
04:42
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.5
(8)
152
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

4.2
(6)
27
riders
45.5km
03:08
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(13)
73
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(33)
181
riders
93.5km
05:17
360m
360m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Villoresi Canal towpath connects Arese and the nearby municipalities via cycle paths and service roads, offering a convenient cycle-pedestrian route along the artificial canal that connects the Ticino and Adda rivers.
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The Strada Alzaia Canale Villoresi is a service road of about 85-90 km that runs along the canal from Somma Lombardo (VA) to Cassano d'Adda (MI), managed by the Consorzio Est Ticino Villoresi. Although widely used by cyclists and walkers, it is not a proper cycle path but a road for mixed use and maintenance.
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The Strada Alzaia Canale Villoresi is a service road of about 85-90 km that runs along the canal from Somma Lombardo (VA) to Cassano d'Adda (MI), managed by the Consorzio Est Ticino Villoresi. Although it is widely used by cyclists and walkers, it is not a real cycle path but a road for mixed use and maintenance.
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The Strada Alzaia Canale Villoresi in the territory of Arconate is one of the most appreciated and frequented sections of the homonymous cycle path in western Lombardy. This specific segment offers an ideal escape into nature for cyclists, runners, and families.
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The Naviglio Grande in Turbigo represents the operational starting point of the oldest navigable canal in Europe. Although the waters are historically diverted from the Ticino river at Tornavento, it is precisely in Turbigo that the watercourse becomes the continuation of the Industrial Canal and enters the heart of its 50-kilometer route towards the Darsena of Milan.
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The Villoresi Canal begins at the Panperduto Dam, a historic and imposing hydraulic junction located in the municipality of Somma Lombardo (VA), where the canal draws its waters from the Ticino river.
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Naviglio Grande cycle path highly recommended
1
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The Besnate area offers a rich network for gravel biking, with over 75 routes available. These trails cater to various skill levels, from moderate paths to more challenging rides, ensuring a diverse experience for all cyclists.
Gravel biking around Besnate features diverse terrain, characterized by a mix of challenging climbs and engaging dirt roads. You'll encounter varied surfaces, including both paved and unpaved sections, providing a true gravel experience away from traffic.
Yes, while many routes offer varied challenges, there are options suitable for different ability levels. For a moderate ride that explores historical sites, consider the Visconti castles Tour. It's a 30.4-mile route with a manageable elevation gain, perfect for a pleasant day out.
For those seeking a more demanding ride, the Besnate area has several difficult routes. The Lake Varese Cycle Path – Fontanili Trail loop from Cavaria-Oggiona-Jerago is a 29.0-mile trail near Lake Varese with a significant elevation gain of 1,606 feet. Another challenging option is the Molera Caves – Seven Hairpins of Valmorea loop from Albizzate-Solbiate Arno, a longer 64.3-mile route with over 2,200 feet of climbing.
Many of the gravel routes in the Besnate area are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, the Valle del Boia Trail – Trail in the Boia Valley loop from Somma Lombardo is a moderate 28.0-mile path that provides varied terrain through the scenic Boia Valley.
The region around Besnate is known for its suggestive surrounding landscapes. While cycling, you can enjoy views of natural features like Lake Comabbio or explore areas like the Old railway tracks and pond at Parco Rile-Tenore-Olona, offering a rich environment for outdoor exploration.
Absolutely! The area is rich in history. Many routes pass by or near historical sites. You can visit impressive structures like the Visconti Castle of San Vito or the Jerago Castle. The Visconti castles Tour is specifically designed to explore these historical sites.
The gravel biking routes in Besnate are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the engaging dirt roads, varied surfaces, and the opportunity for direct contact with nature away from traffic.
Besnate and its surrounding towns, being a popular outdoor destination, generally offer parking options. While specific parking lots for each trail vary, you can typically find public parking in the starting points of many routes, such as Somma Lombardo or Cavaria-Oggiona-Jerago, which are common access points for the trails.
The Varese province has a regional public transport network that can facilitate access to areas around Besnate. Depending on your starting point, train or bus services might connect to towns near trailheads. It's advisable to check local transport schedules and bike carriage policies for specific routes.
For those looking for a longer adventure, the Besnate region offers extended routes. The Towpath of the Villoresi Canal – Villoresi Canal loop from Somma Lombardo is a significant 93.4-mile (150 km) route, providing a challenging long-distance option with a moderate elevation profile.
The diverse terrain and varied surfaces around Besnate make it suitable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, while summer can be enjoyable, especially on routes with shaded sections. Winter riding is also possible, though trail conditions might vary.


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