The best traffic-free bike rides in Riserva Naturale Delle Baragge

There are nearly 90 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Delle Baragge. These routes offer a variety of experiences, with 23 easy, 41 moderate, and 24 difficult options to choose from.

The Riserva Naturale Delle Baragge is beautiful year-round, but summer and autumn are particularly spectacular for touring cycling. During these seasons, the landscape transforms with golden grasses, pink heather, and brown bracken, offering stunning views and pleasant riding conditions.

The region is characterized by vast grasslands and moors, often referred to as the 'African Savannah' of Piedmont. You can expect mostly easy paths and dirt roads with limited elevation changes, making it accessible for various skill levels. The terrain is generally flat or gently undulating, perfect for touring cyclists seeking a relaxed ride.

Yes, Riserva Naturale Delle Baragge offers 23 easy touring cycling routes, many of which are suitable for beginners and families. These routes typically feature minimal elevation gain and well-maintained paths. An example of an easy route is the Collapsed Bridge – Strona River loop from Fontaneto d'Agogna, which covers about 8 km with very little climbing.

Many of the routes in Riserva Naturale Delle Baragge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the The House of the Winds – Church of San Bernardo loop from Romagnano Sesia offers a moderate 39 km ride, while the Boca – BOG Vineyards Trail Paths loop from Cavallirio is a more challenging 23 km option.

Beyond the natural beauty, the region boasts several cultural and historical points of interest. A must-see is the Ricetto of Candelo, a remarkably preserved medieval fortified village. You might also encounter the elegant Castello di Castellengo or the serene Silent Park (Parco Silenzioso) during your rides.

Absolutely. The reserve is known for its expansive 'savannah-like' landscapes. Keep an eye out for the View of the Plain from the Baraggia Highlands, offering panoramic vistas. The unique geological formations, a result of ancient plains eroded by water courses, are also a sight to behold. You'll also find diverse flora, including rare plants like the Siberian iris, and various insects and butterflies.

Yes, the multiple sections of the Riserva Naturale Delle Baragge are easily accessible via a network of state, provincial, and communal roads. This means there are generally convenient parking options available near access points to the dedicated cycle tracks and dirt roads within the reserve.

The reserve is well-connected by a network of roads, and while specific public transport links directly into the heart of the reserve for cyclists might be limited, surrounding towns often have bus or train services. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules for connections to towns like Romagnano Sesia or Candelo, which serve as good starting points for many routes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 290 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique 'African Savannah' landscape, the quiet and traffic-free nature of the routes, and the accessibility for various skill levels. The opportunity to combine natural beauty with historical landmarks like the Ricetto of Candelo is also frequently highlighted.

While the reserve is a natural area, specific regulations regarding dogs on cycling routes can vary. Generally, dogs are permitted on trails if kept on a leash. Given the presence of diverse wildlife and grazing sheep, it's crucial to keep your dog under control. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions in certain areas of the reserve.