Mountain bike tours on old military roads and on single trails
To visit the Maira Valley is to experience one of Europe`s best kept secrets. Situated in the south west of Piedmonte close to the border with France, the area hosts some of the most rugged and spectacular scenery to be found anywhere in the Alps. The area is increasing in popularity amongst the trail and mountain biking community who like to travel from the north down to the Mediterranean sea in the south. For the trekker or mountain and trail biker, the valley offers a full range of opportunity to challenge ability levels from the novice to the most experienced.
Apart from the attractions of the valley itself, we are also within easy striking distance of the famous ski resort of Limone and the French Riviera.
To gain access to some of the most isolated Alpine terrain in Italy, bikers can utilise the network of old military roads and trails, built in the first half of the twentieth century, which crisscross the valley, bridging the river at several points and are cut into sheer rock faces. The visitor to the region will readily appreciate these incredible feats of engineering, not to mention the great sacrifice and loss of life endured by the troops involved in their construction, particularly should the route over the Colletta Pass on Mount Bellino be taken; the highest and most inaccessible in the Cottish range at the height of 2830 metres above sea level. In addition to the profusion of local flora, typically the forests of beech and ash trees, and fauna, including the wild Alpine chamois, idyllic towns and farmhouses sit perched precariously on rocky outcrops. The architecture is maintained in the traditional style and is sensitive to the stunning natural surroundings, being constructed entirely from local materials.
Not only does Piedmonte produce excellent wines of international renown but still to this day maintains its celebrated and unique tradition of farmhouse cuisine.
The Posto Tappa Pensione Ceaglio at Marmora, Vernetti, is situated close to the head of this spectacular valley and is surrounded by towering monuments to the awesome power of nature in a village that is 1,223 meters above sea level. The Ceaglio offers a warm and friendly atmosphere where guests can enjoy the local cuisine and relax after a challenging day in the mountains by taking in the remarkable views of the heavens afforded by our clear and unpolluted night skies. We supply a range of facilities to meet the needs of both the bikers and their equipment alike. Maps of local trails covering some 761 kilometers in length are also available. Come and join us in Piedmonte for the experience of a lifetime.
"Mountain Bike Valle Maira: The riding here is extremely diverse, both in landscape and challenge level, and is recommended." Ellee Thalheimer, Cycling Italy, Lonely Planet Publications, 2009
)
','detail','width=650,height=610,resizable=no,scrollbars=no'))
)
