Madonna della Bassa Loop from Almese

The loop typically starts and ends in Almese. You can find parking options within the village, which serves as a convenient base for accessing the trail.

This is a difficult mountain bike trail, requiring excellent physical training and advanced riding skills. You'll encounter a diverse and demanding terrain, including sections with exposed roots and sharp stones, compact and irregular dirt roads, gravel sections, and technical singletracks that can be stony and stepped. There are also steep, continuous asphalt climbs.

While there are no explicit restrictions mentioned, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially given the technical nature of the trail and potential encounters with other riders or wildlife. Always ensure your dog is fit enough for a challenging ride.

The best time to ride this route is typically during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, and winter might present icy or snowy conditions on higher sections, making the already challenging terrain even more difficult.

No specific permits or entrance fees are generally required to ride this trail or access the Parco Naturale Col del Lys. However, always respect local regulations and private property signage you might encounter along the way.

The route offers several scenic highlights. You'll pass by the Sanctuary of Madonna della Bassa, and enjoy panoramic vistas from the Santuario Madonna della Bassa Viewpoint and Pilone della Costa, which include Monte Musiné and the Avigliana lakes. The route also goes through beautiful pine forests and past the Pian dei Listelli Educational Arboretum.

Yes, for those seeking a slightly less technical experience, a variant exists that bypasses some of the more challenging singletracks. This can reduce the overall technical difficulty to moderately challenging, while still offering a great workout and scenic views.

While water may be available at the Sanctuary of Madonna della Bassa, it is noted as uncontrolled. It's always best to carry sufficient water for the entire duration of your ride, especially given the demanding nature of the climbs.

Yes, the route partially follows sections of several other trails, including Alp45, Percorso Della Miosa, Pista Tagliafuoco, Percorso Delle Guardie, Percorso Della Roca Bianca, and the Via Francigena - Dora Riparia variant.

The climbs are a defining feature of this route, often described as steep and continuous. They involve significant elevation gain over relatively short distances, posing a considerable challenge for both riders and e-bike motors. While demanding, successfully conquering them leads to very enjoyable descents.

Almese is a small village and the starting point for this loop. You can expect to find some basic amenities, including cafes or local eateries, and potentially accommodation options suitable for visitors. It's a good idea to check availability in advance, especially during peak seasons.