Monte Toraggio and Monte Pietravecchia Loop

This loop tour is rated as difficult for cycling, requiring a very good fitness level. It involves significant elevation gain and varied terrain, with some segments potentially requiring you to push your bike.

The route features a varied surface composition. You'll encounter approximately 36.2 km of asphalt, 16.8 km of unpaved surfaces, 1.24 km of paved sections, and some singletrack. It includes roads, paths, and streets.

The tour is estimated to take around 5 hours and 24 minutes to complete, covering a distance of approximately 54.3 kilometers with over 2,090 meters of elevation gain.

The tour offers diverse scenery, including panoramic views from the peaks to the Mediterranean coastline. You'll pass through ancient rural settlements and beech-woods. A significant highlight is Triora – The Village of Witches. Other points of interest include The 18th-century Barracks and Monte Grai Hut.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling within the Parco Naturale Regionale delle Alpi Liguri itself. However, always respect local regulations and private property signs you may encounter along the route.

The Ligurian Alps can experience snow at higher elevations, so the best time to ride is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October) when the weather is more stable and trails are clear. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

While dogs are generally allowed in the Parco Naturale Regionale delle Alpi Liguri, it's crucial to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas, near wildlife, or when passing through villages. Given the challenging nature of this tour, consider if it's suitable for your dog's fitness level.

As a loop tour, you can typically start and park in one of the villages along the route. Specific parking information for the trailhead is not provided, but look for public parking areas in towns like Triora, which is a key point on the loop.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Sella d'Agnaira - Sella della Valletta, Tappa 4-C.la Melosa-Triora, Tappa5-Realdo-Triora, and the Sentiero per Rifugio Allavena, Colla Melosa, among others.

Given the tour's difficulty and length, it's essential to bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, a repair kit for your bike, appropriate cycling gear, and layers of clothing for changing weather conditions. A GPS device with the route loaded is highly recommended due to the varied terrain and potential for remote sections.

The tour passes through Triora – The Village of Witches, where you can find options for food and drink. However, much of the route traverses wilder, more remote areas, so plan to carry sufficient supplies between villages.