4.6
(262)
3,089
riders
33
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Santa Margherita Di Staffora are situated in the Oltrepò Pavese region of Lombardy, Italy, characterized by diverse and scenic landscapes. The area features a mountainous terrain with significant peaks like Monte Chiappo (1,699 m) and Monte Lesima (1,724 m), alongside the Staffora Valley. Cyclists navigate through varied elevations, including challenging ascents in the Oltrepò Pavese hills and routes through beech forests and Apennine woodland.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
4.0
(5)
126
riders
35.9km
03:33
1,270m
1,270m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
51
riders
23.1km
02:05
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

5.0
(1)
36
riders
50.1km
03:46
1,170m
1,170m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3.7
(3)
41
riders
36.9km
03:00
1,050m
1,050m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
30
riders
67.5km
04:56
1,500m
1,500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Popular around Santa Margherita Di Staffora
Romantic, suitable for everyone.
0
0
It is adorned with a 15th-century wooden crucifix and precious frescoes by Baschenis in the side apses.
12
0
The Ponte Gobbo in Bobbio, also known as the "Devil's Bridge", is a medieval structure 273 meters long with 11 irregular arches, located on the Trebbia River. Legend has it that the Devil built it in one night in exchange for the soul of the first passerby, who was then tricked by Saint Columbanus, who made an animal cross first.
11
0
Not too complicated slopes.
24
0
From the eastern side (from Agazzano) it is a long but rideable climb, the side from Travo is harder.
3
0
Hunchback Bridge or Devil's Bridge In the Middle Ages, the construction of a bridge was considered a miraculous feat. For this reason, the construction of such structures gave rise to many legends, often involving the devil: joining two places that God had wanted separated was seen by many as a "diabolical" work. According to an ancient legend, Saint Columbanus, a 7th-century Irish monk, was eager to bring the word of God to the people living on the other bank of the Trebbia River, near the town of Bobbio. The devil promised to build the bridge in a single night, in exchange for the first mortal soul to cross it. The saint accepted. That night, the devil summoned several little devils who assisted him in the construction work, holding up the bridge's arches. The demons were of different heights, and thus the various arches of the bridge were of varying sizes. In the morning, the devil stationed himself at the end of the bridge to demand his payment. But Saint Columbanus outwitted him by having his poor, suffering and very sick dog (some say it was a bear) cross the bridge instead of a man. The enraged devil returned to hell, but not before kicking his handiwork, which has been crooked ever since. It is said that the footprints of the unfortunate animal that served as a guinea pig still remain in the crypt of the Church of Saint Columbanus. The Hunchback Bridge, also known as the Ponte Vecchio or, more precisely, the Devil's Bridge, is a Roman structure that has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries. The structure above dates back to the 7th century, but traces of an older bridge, dating back to before Columbanus' arrival, have been found underneath. The bridge, characterized by its undulating shape, irregular arches, and relatively narrow carriageway, is 280 meters long and connects the two banks of the river through a complicated succession of 11 irregular spans, varying in span and height, creating an undulating path from one end to the other. The Bobbio Bridge, now used only as a pedestrian crossing, is the very symbol of the city of San Colombano, as well as one of the strangest and most original architectural structures in Italy. Source: Emilia-Romagna Region
3
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Hunchback Bridge or Devil's Bridge In the Middle Ages, the construction of a bridge was considered a miraculous feat. For this reason, the construction of such structures gave rise to many legends, often involving the devil: joining two places that God had wanted separated was seen by many as a "diabolical" work. According to an ancient legend, Saint Columbanus, a 7th-century Irish monk, was eager to bring the word of God to the people living on the other bank of the Trebbia River, near the town of Bobbio. The devil promised to build the bridge in a single night, in exchange for the first mortal soul to cross it. The saint accepted. That night, the devil summoned several little devils who assisted him in the construction work, holding up the bridge's arches. The demons were of different heights, and thus the various arches of the bridge were of varying sizes. In the morning, the devil stationed himself at the end of the bridge to demand his payment. But Saint Columbanus outwitted him by having his poor, suffering and very sick dog (some say it was a bear) cross the bridge instead of a man. The enraged devil returned to hell, but not before kicking his handiwork, which has been crooked ever since. It is said that the footprints of the unfortunate animal that served as a guinea pig still remain in the crypt of the Church of Saint Columbanus. The Hunchback Bridge, also known as the Ponte Vecchio or, more precisely, the Devil's Bridge, is a Roman structure that has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries. The structure above dates back to the 7th century, but traces of an older bridge, dating back to before Columbanus' arrival, have been found underneath. The bridge, characterized by its undulating shape, irregular arches, and relatively narrow carriageway, is 280 meters long and connects the two banks of the river through a complicated succession of 11 irregular spans, varying in span and height, creating an undulating path from one end to the other. The Bobbio Bridge, now used only as a pedestrian crossing, is the very symbol of the city of San Colombano, as well as one of the strangest and most original architectural structures in Italy. Source: Emilia-Romagna Region
2
0
Beautiful tour, panorama and places are worth it
2
0
There are over 35 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Santa Margherita di Staffora. While most are challenging, there is one moderate option for those seeking a less strenuous ride.
The region around Santa Margherita di Staffora is characterized by its mountainous landscape and the Oltrepò Pavese hills. You can expect significant elevation changes, with routes featuring challenging ascents and descents through varied vegetation, including beech forests and typical Apennine woodland. Many routes offer breathtaking panoramic views.
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes are circular. For example, you can explore the Monte Chiappo Hut – Ezio Orsi Mountain Hut loop from Forotondo, which covers over 42 km with significant elevation gain, or the shorter Church of the Capuchins – Varzi Historic Center loop from Varzi.
The routes offer access to stunning natural features and viewpoints. You might encounter significant peaks like Monte Chiappo (1,699 m) and Monte Lesima (1,724 m), which provide magnificent panoramas. Specific highlights include View near Pan Perduto mountain and View of Val Trebbia from Passo al Scaparina. You can also pass through mountain passes like Passo del Giovà.
Yes, some routes incorporate unique natural attractions. For instance, the Carlone Waterfall – Pietranera Abandoned Village loop from Brallo di Pregola offers a chance to see the Carlone Waterfall, alongside exploring an abandoned village, making for a diverse cycling experience.
The mid-season (spring and autumn) is generally ideal for touring cycling in Santa Margherita di Staffora. The ancient Via del Sale, for example, is particularly captivating during these times. The weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery, with its diverse vegetation and changing colors, is at its most beautiful.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging yet rewarding climbs, the stunning panoramic views from peaks like Monte Chiappo, and the immersive experience of riding through quiet Apennine woodlands and picturesque valleys.
While most no-traffic touring cycling routes in this area are rated as difficult due to significant elevation gains, there is one moderate option available. The region is generally known for its challenging terrain, making it more suitable for experienced cyclists or those looking to push their limits.
Yes, some routes offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. The Church of the Capuchins – Varzi Historic Center loop from Varzi, for example, allows you to explore the historic center of Varzi, providing a glimpse into the local heritage alongside your ride.
Yes, some routes incorporate mountain huts, which can be useful for breaks or as destinations. The Monte Chiappo Hut – Monte Ebro loop from Salogni is one such route that includes the Monte Chiappo Hut, offering a potential stop during your ride.
The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Santa Margherita di Staffora are known for their significant elevation gains. Even routes around 20 km can feature over 900 meters of ascent, while longer routes like the Monte Chiappo Hut – Ezio Orsi Mountain Hut loop from Forotondo can involve over 1,400 meters of climbing. Be prepared for challenging ascents.


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