Ring tour of the three valleys - Schizzola, Ardivestra, Staffora

The Ring tour of the three valleys - Schizzola, Ardivestra, Staffora is estimated to take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete by racebike. This duration is an average and can vary based on your cycling pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

This route is classified as a moderate road cycling tour. It primarily follows paved roads, as it's designed for racebikes, and includes some climbs and descents. Cyclists should expect varied terrain typical of Italian valley landscapes, requiring a reasonable level of fitness.

The route offers several historical and scenic highlights. You can visit the expertly restored Pieve of San Zaccaria, a beautiful 12th-century church, and the ancient medieval Fortress of Montalfeo, strategically located on a hill. The tour also includes sections of the Via Maresco Cycle Path, offering picturesque views of the valleys.

Given its 'moderate' difficulty rating and approximately 500 meters of elevation gain, this tour is best suited for cyclists with a decent level of fitness. While not overly challenging, beginners might find the climbs and overall distance demanding. It's not ideal for absolute novices.

The tour is located near Godiasco. While specific parking areas are not detailed, you can typically find public parking in or around the town centers of Godiasco or other nearby villages in the Staffora Valley to begin your ride. Look for designated parking zones or public squares.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, making for comfortable cycling conditions. Summer can be quite hot, and winter may bring colder temperatures and less predictable weather.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Ring tour of the three valleys. The route primarily uses public roads and paths, making it freely accessible to cyclists.

As a road cycling route, it's generally not suitable for dogs to accompany cyclists directly on the bike. If you plan to bring a dog, it would need to be transported in a suitable bike trailer or left with a companion at designated stops. Always ensure your dog's safety and comfort.

Yes, the route briefly intersects with or runs alongside sections of other paths. Notably, it includes parts of the Greenway Voghera-Varzi and smaller local paths like Anello di Salice Terme and Anello della Collina. These intersections are generally short segments of the overall tour.

While the route itself is a cycling tour, it passes through several villages and towns in the three valleys. You can expect to find cafes, restaurants, and small shops in these settlements, particularly in Godiasco and other larger towns, where you can stop for refreshments or a meal.

For this moderate road cycling tour, we recommend bringing essential cycling gear including a helmet, appropriate cycling attire, water bottles, and snacks. A basic repair kit (spare tube, pump, tire levers) is also advisable. Don't forget your phone for navigation and emergencies, and a camera to capture the scenic views.