The best road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa

Riserva Naturale Della Bessa offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 270 tours to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, including more than 40 easy routes, nearly 160 moderate options, and around 75 challenging trails.

The region is known for its distinctive 'lunar landscape,' characterized by vast stone heaps, remnants of ancient gold mining. Despite this, many routes feature stretches of diverse vegetation, including oak, cherry, and hazelnut trees. The cycling paths are predominantly asphalted, providing smooth surfaces, and generally present flat or moderately undulating terrain suitable for road bikes.

Yes, the reserve offers several family-friendly road cycling options, particularly among its easy-grade routes. These trails typically feature gentle gradients and smooth, asphalted surfaces, making them suitable for cyclists of varying ages and abilities. The overall flat to moderate elevation of many paths contributes to a pleasant experience for families.

While cycling, you can explore the unique landscape shaped by ancient gold mining. Key points of interest include the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site, where you can witness the vast stone heaps. You might also pass by the Victimula Goldpanners' Arena, which highlights the area's historical connection to gold. The routes also traverse areas with diverse vegetation, offering scenic views of nature reclaiming the ancient landscape.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the easy Borriana loop from Borriana is a popular choice, as is the moderate Fountain With Bust in Zubiena loop from Zubiena. Another option is the Ricetto of Candelo – Borriana loop from Borriana, which leads through historical areas.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for road cycling in Riserva Naturale Della Bessa. In spring, the area becomes particularly vibrant with flowering trees and plants like hawthorn and cyclamen. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. While summer can also be suitable, it's advisable to cycle during cooler parts of the day to avoid the heat.

Equipped picnic areas, such as those near the visitor center in Vermogno and the Vermogno Picnic Area, often provide convenient parking facilities. These locations serve as good starting points for many of the cycling routes within the reserve.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique 'lunar landscape' and the blend of historical significance with natural beauty. The mostly asphalted and well-maintained paths, offering routes for various skill levels, are also frequently highlighted.

While specific cafes directly on the routes are not detailed, the reserve features equipped picnic areas like the one near the visitor center in Vermogno and the Vermogno Picnic Area. These spots offer convenient places for rest and relaxation amidst nature, and nearby towns would provide additional amenities.

Despite its unique geological history, Riserva Naturale Della Bessa supports a diverse range of fauna. While cycling, you might spot various rodents, foxes, and hares. The area is also home to reptiles like adders and rat-snakes, and numerous bird species, including tawny and barn owls, making it an interesting spot for nature observation.

Yes, for experienced cyclists looking for longer rides, routes like the moderate Fontanella di Salussola – Historic entrance of Salussola loop from Vergnasco offer a substantial distance of over 51 km. The reserve also features nearly 75 routes categorized as 'difficult,' which may include longer distances and more significant elevation changes, providing a good challenge.