The best traffic-free bike rides around Ovada
4.1
(190)
1,999
riders
17
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Ovada are situated within the Monferrato hills, characterized by a diverse landscape of rolling hills, extensive vineyards, and river valleys formed by the Orba River and Stura Stream. This region offers varied terrain with continuous climbs and descents, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for touring cyclists. The area features a mix of paved roads and unpaved sections, including gravel paths, suitable for different cycling preferences. Natural features such as the Canyon of Molare…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
14
riders
21.4km
01:54
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
7
riders
20.0km
01:42
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
riders
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
8
riders
16.5km
01:37
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.6
(7)
8
riders
14.2km
01:04
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ovada
Tips from the Community
A nice singletrek to ride.
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Exceptional view of the valley below.
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seat of the brotherhood that has the burden and honor of carrying the chest with the statue of the Madonna della Neve on its shoulders through the streets of the town
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The climb from Ovada is very irregular and also has some descents. You have to constantly change gear.
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Hi, I think it's because they opened the dam's locks not long ago, my friends and I would like to do Lavagnina-Genoa Pegli, do you have any advice?
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it has often been open for some time; inside there are several very interesting works, including several ex-votos, recently restored frescoes and the altarpiece on the main altar which refers to the grace received from the Spinola marquises who, as written above, turned to the Madonna to have children, and they were born two twins.
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The church of S. Maria della Rocchetta, today called Nostra Signora delle Grazie, was built before 1291 downstream from the now destroyed monastery of S. Maria di Bano, very active in the 13th century. The site was already frequented by the Celts who often had sanctuaries in places rich in water. The Piota stream right near Rocchetta receives the Malpertuso tributary. Even the Gorzente, the Latin Gurgentum, flows into the Piota shortly before. Along these streams the Ligurians and then the Romans extracted gold from the gold mines. The Genoese Spinolas, lords of Lerma, were responsible for the expansions of the complex from the end of the 1400s to the 1600s. The Spinolas had turned to Nostra Signora della Rocchetta to obtain the grace of a long-awaited offspring. Reachable along a road marked by the aedicules of a Via Crucis dating back to the 19th century, the church stands in a dominant position on a puddinga spur overlooking the Piota stream. The complex, which in the Middle Ages hosted travelers along the road that connected Monferrato to Liguria through the huts of Marcarolo, confirmed its vocation for hospitality during the last world war when the chaplain Don Luigi Mazzarello hid there some Jews who had escaped the racial persecution (tombstone). Open to the public on the occasion of particular religious holidays, the church preserves frescoes from the 17th century which have recently been restored. The painting of St. Giovannino was donated to Don Luigi by Enrico Levi as a sign of gratitude, together with the St. Carlo Borromeo, while the large painting with the Vision of St. Bernard of Clairvaux clarifies the connection between the hospice for pilgrims and wayfarers , present in Rocchetta, and the nearby Cistercian monastery of Bano. Until the recent post-war period, the sanctuary was a destination for pilgrimages from the surrounding towns: the so-called "rogations" to beg for rain on the local crops.
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The Lavagnina lakes are two artificial lakes in the Ligurian Apennines in the province of Alessandria and concern the municipalities of Casaleggio Boiro, Mornese and Bosio. The lakes are called one Upper Lake and the other Lower Lake. Unfortunately today 05/26/24 the lakes are completely without water
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available around Ovada?
There are 18 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Ovada, catering to various skill levels. This includes 1 easy route, 8 moderate routes, and 9 difficult routes, ensuring options for most cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no traffic touring cycling routes in Ovada?
The routes predominantly traverse the rolling hills of the Monferrato region, featuring vineyards and river valleys. You'll encounter a mix of continuous climbs and descents, with some routes offering paved sections and others incorporating unpaved, gravel, or even track sections. The region is known for its diverse topography between the Orba River and Stura Stream.
Are there any circular no traffic touring cycling routes around Ovada?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Panoramas of Val d'Orba - Ring Tour, which offers a challenging 21.4 km ride with scenic views.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see along these routes?
The routes often pass through picturesque landscapes and near interesting points. You might encounter the dramatic Val Gargassa Canyon, the unique Black Rocks of Val Gargassa, or the serene Lavagnina Lakes. Historical sites like the Albarola Tower also dot the landscape.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ovada to avoid traffic?
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are generally the best seasons. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery, especially the vineyards, is particularly beautiful. These periods also tend to have fewer tourists compared to peak summer, contributing to a more tranquil, traffic-free experience.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic touring cycling routes in Ovada?
While many routes involve rolling hills, there is at least one easy route suitable for families or beginners. The region's focus on low-traffic roads makes it generally safer for family outings, but always check the specific route's difficulty and elevation profile before setting out.
Can I find routes that pass by lakes or water bodies?
Yes, the region's topography includes river valleys and lakes. For instance, the View of Lago della Lavagnina loop from Santuario di Nostra Signora delle Grazie della Rocchetta offers views of Lago della Lavagnina, providing a refreshing element to your ride.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ovada?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from 88 ratings. Reviewers often praise the picturesque vineyards, the challenging yet rewarding hilly terrain, and the opportunity to explore charming villages and historical sites away from heavy traffic.
Are there any routes that offer views of historical castles or significant buildings?
Yes, some routes will take you past historical structures. For example, the Castello di Francavilla Bisio – San Cristoforo Castle loop from Castelletto d'Orba is a longer, more challenging route that includes views of local castles.
Where can I park my car if I'm bringing my bike to Ovada for these routes?
Ovada and its surrounding villages offer various public parking options. While specific parking areas for each route are not detailed here, you can typically find parking in town centers or near popular trailheads. It's advisable to check local maps or signage upon arrival for the most convenient spots.
Are there any routes that offer significant elevation gain for a challenging ride?
Absolutely. The Monferrato hills are known for their continuous climbs and descents. Many routes, such as the Oratory of San Fermo – View of the Valley loop from Ovada, feature substantial elevation gains, making them ideal for cyclists seeking a good workout and panoramic views.
Can I find routes that pass through or near natural parks?
While not directly on every route, the Capanne di Marcarolo Natural Park is a significant natural attraction in the broader region. Some routes may offer views towards or pass near the park's boundaries, providing opportunities to experience more rugged and protected wilderness.
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