The best gravel rides around Taino
4.4
(88)
642
riders
43
rides
Gravel biking around Taino offers a diverse network of routes, primarily situated near Lake Maggiore. The terrain features a mix of lakeside paths, riverine sections, and undulating landscapes with moderate elevation changes. These routes often traverse agricultural areas and natural reserves, providing varied surfaces for gravel cyclists. The region's geography supports both longer endurance rides and shorter, more accessible paths.
Best gravel bike trails around Taino
- The most popular gravel bike trail is From castle to hermitage, a 32.6…
Last updated: July 17, 2026
4.5
(2)
11
riders
44.7km
04:48
620m
630m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(2)
6
riders
22.0km
02:06
120m
120m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Sign up for free
4.9
(19)
128
riders
59.3km
03:43
280m
280m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.8
(6)
28
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.3
(3)
21
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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.
0
0
the view is always fascinating!
2
0
Stop for a few minutes to enjoy the view...truly relaxing!
0
0
It was a late 19th-century engineer, Eugenio Villoresi, son of the director of the gardens of Villa Reale in Monza, who envisioned extending the irrigation of the fields upstream from this imaginary line. He therefore designed a long canal connecting Lake Maggiore to the Adda River, using its waters to distribute, for a fee, to all the fields between the canal and the fountain line. Obtaining the government concession and securing the project's financing was certainly no easy feat; Villoresi did not see its completion, which took place in 1890, 11 years after his death.
2
0
Convenient, protected connection. Interesting views of the railway bridge and old factories, now, I fear, abandoned to their fate.
1
0
Barrier-free concrete bridge to cross the stream, convenient for entering the woods
1
0
Santa Caterina del Sasso, Leggiuno Santa Caterina del Sasso Ballaro (actually Eremo di Santa Catarina del Sasso Ballara) was originally a hermitage. It is now located in the Italian municipality of Leggiuno in the province of Varese. In the 13th century, Dominicans converted the building into a monastery. This is a destination for many pilgrimages. It is located directly on Lake Maggiore and, like many former hermitages, is built on a rock in a location that is difficult to access. Construction began in the early 13th century, but the main work dates back to around 1300/1320. The core of the complex is the small church dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. The nickname "del sasso" means that the building stands on a rock; "Sasso Ballaro" refers to a rockslide in 1640 that caused significant damage. "Sasso ballaro" roughly translates as "wobbly rock." According to tradition, the merchant Alberto Besozzi founded the monastery after he had successfully survived a shipwreck on the lake. He later became a hermit and is buried in the church. In 1230, Dominicans built the small convent and oratory. Around 1450, additional staircases were added to connect the individual parts of the building. In the following centuries, the monastery was rebuilt and expanded several times to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. The 14th-century church tower is still Romanesque. The Renaissance decorations on the current façade date from the 15th century, the numerous frescoes in the former refectory, the arcade, and the church date from the 14th to 17th centuries, and the paintings in the church are Baroque. Due to the steep slope and the difficult subsoil, the interior of the church is shaped to follow the curve of the mountain. It is richly frescoed, although moisture damage has destroyed significant portions of the paintings. The frescoes date primarily from the 16th century and were further enhanced with floral motifs in the 17th century. At the center of the church stands the sarcophagus of the founder, the hermit Alberto. In the courtyard separating the church from the convent building stands an old wine press dating from 1769. Text / Source: Province of Varese - Piazza Libertà No. 1 - 21100 Varese http://www.santacaterinadelsasso.com/
12
0
The Santa Caterina del Sasso church impresses with its unique construction. When visiting the sanctuary, you will encounter three buildings that make up the entire structure: the southern cloister, the small cloister, and finally the church, which houses the body of St. Besozzi and the Chapel of St. Catherine. The southern cloister was built in 1300 and renovated in 1624 by Prior Giulio Cesare Martignoni after part of the old wooden structure collapsed into the lake. It is accessed through an archway supported by slender granite columns. The small cloister is located opposite the courtyard where a large wine press stands. Text / Source: Lago-Maggiore.de https://www.lago-maggiore.de/ausflugsziele/kloster-santa-caterina-del-sasso.html
14
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Taino?
There are over 70 gravel bike trails around Taino, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find routes primarily situated near Lake Maggiore, traversing lakeside paths, riverine sections, and undulating landscapes.
What is the overall difficulty level of gravel biking routes in Taino?
The gravel biking routes in Taino cater to various abilities. While there are 5 easy routes, the majority are moderate (35 routes) or difficult (31 routes), providing challenging options for experienced riders. The terrain often includes significant elevation changes, especially on longer tours.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Taino?
Gravel biking around Taino features a diverse mix of terrain. You can expect lakeside paths, riverine sections, and rolling hills. Routes often traverse agricultural areas and natural reserves, providing varied surfaces suitable for gravel cyclists. The region's geography supports both longer endurance rides and shorter, more accessible paths.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Taino?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Panperduto Dam – Start of the Villoresi Canal loop from Sesto Calende is a 49-mile trail that takes you through riverine landscapes. Another option is the Panperduto Dam – Panperduto Dam loop from Taino Angera, a moderate 31.5-mile route.
What natural landmarks or viewpoints can I see while gravel biking near Taino?
While gravel biking near Taino, you can encounter several scenic viewpoints and natural features. Highlights include the View of Lake Maggiore from Sasso Pizzo and the View of the Rocca d'Angera and Lake Maggiore from San Quirico. These offer stunning panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Are there any specific points of interest or historical sites along the gravel routes?
Many routes pass by interesting points, such as the Panperduto Dam, which is a notable landmark in the riverine landscapes. You might also encounter the Summit Cross on some of the higher elevation routes, offering a blend of natural beauty and man-made monuments.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Taino?
The gravel biking routes in Taino are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 800 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Taino's varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and well-maintained paths.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Taino?
While many routes are challenging, the Lake Maggiore Family Tour offers scenic views along Lake Maggiore. Although listed as 'difficult' due to its length or elevation, it provides a dedicated experience for those looking to ride with family, offering a shorter yet demanding ride.
What are some longer, more challenging gravel routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the From castle to hermitage trail is a 32.6-mile (52.4 km) route with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 5 hours to complete. Another demanding option is the Panperduto Dam – Start of the Villoresi Canal loop from Sesto Calende, which is 49 miles long.
Can I find routes that combine lakeside views with other landscapes?
Absolutely. Many routes in Taino offer a combination of stunning lakeside views and other diverse landscapes. For instance, the Lakeside Promenade of Ispra – Bastion of Quassa loop from Taino Angera is a 28.7-mile route that takes you along the lake and through varied terrain, including rolling hills.
Most popular attractions around Taino
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
