Langhe and Bormida Valley Loop

This is a difficult racebike tour, requiring very good fitness. You'll encounter significant elevation gains and consistent climbing and descending through the rolling hills of Piedmont. While most surfaces are well-paved, be prepared for challenging sections.

The most pleasant times to cycle this route are typically in Spring (May-June) and Autumn (September-October). During these months, temperatures are generally mild and ideal for cycling.

The route offers panoramic views of rolling green hills, extensive vineyards, and hazelnut plantations, especially within the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato hills. You'll also pass through charming villages built with traditional Langa stone and enjoy breathtaking views from places like the Santuario del Todocco.

The tour starts in Dego. While specific parking details for this exact route are not provided, Dego is a small municipality, and you should be able to find suitable parking within the village to begin your ride.

As this is a racebike tour primarily on roads, bringing a dog along would be challenging and generally not recommended for their safety or comfort. It's best suited for cyclists without canine companions.

No, you do not need any special permits or to pay entrance fees to cycle this route. It primarily follows public roads through the region.

Yes, the route passes near or through parts of the Parco Naturale di Piana Crixia, notably near the Church of Piana Crixia. As a natural park, general regulations apply, such as staying on marked paths, respecting wildlife, and not littering. For specific cycling regulations within the park, it's always best to check the official park website if you plan to deviate from the main road route.

Yes, the tour includes significant climbs. You'll encounter the Climb Spigno Monferrato - Serole and the challenging Cortemilia - Serole climb. The area around Cortemilia features a climb towards Bergolo, which is 7.5 km long with an elevation gain of 370 meters, averaging a 4.9% gradient.

You'll start in Dego and cycle towards Squaneto, passing through the Serole Village Center before reaching Cortemilia. The route also takes you near Bergolo.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other official trails. You will briefly intersect with parts of the Cammino Piemonte Sud, The Great Langa Trail, and the Via dei Feudi Carretteschi, among others.

The region is known for its culinary delights, especially hazelnuts. You'll pass through towns like Cortemilia, which is considered the capital of hazelnuts. These villages offer opportunities to find cafes, restaurants, and local shops for refreshments and to experience the local cuisine.

Given its difficult grading and significant elevation gains, this route is not recommended for beginner road cyclists. It requires very good fitness and experience with challenging climbs and descents.