The best MTB trails around Vicolungo

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Vicolungo. The routes cater to various skill levels, with 8 easy, 21 moderate, and 2 difficult trails available. The terrain generally features low elevation gains, making them accessible for exploring the local countryside.

Mountain biking around Vicolungo offers routes through the flat Piedmontese plain, characterized by extensive rice fields that appear as green meadows or flooded areas depending on the season. You'll also encounter river environments, notably along the Sesia River, and can explore natural parks like Lame del Sesia Natural Park, which provides a contrasting natural oasis with diverse river features and woods.

Yes, several routes pass by historical sites. For instance, the Vineyard of the Giant Pencils – Castello di Proh loop from Carpignano Sesia leads through vineyards and past historical sites like Castello di Proh. Other routes may bring you near the Cavour Canal or the city of Novara, which boasts the historic Basilica of San Gaudenzio.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 90 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, which includes rice fields, river environments, and rural scenery, offering a unique cycling experience.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Vicolungo are designed as loops. Examples include the Sesia River – Enoteca Regionale di Gattinara loop from Arborio and the Cavour Canal Crossing – Along the Sesia for 8 km loop from Recetto, both offering a complete circuit back to your starting point.

The Piedmontese plain around Vicolungo is generally suitable for mountain biking for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, especially when the rice fields are green or flooded. Summers can be warm, while winters are typically mild, though conditions can vary.

Given the generally low elevation gains and varied terrain, many of the easy and moderate routes around Vicolungo can be suitable for families. These trails often traverse rural scenery and rice fields, providing a pleasant experience for riders of different ages and skill levels.

While specific regulations for dogs on trails can vary, many rural and natural park areas in Italy are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. It's always advisable to check local signage or park rules, particularly within areas like Lame del Sesia Natural Park, to ensure compliance.

Parking is typically available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for the routes, such as Arborio, Recetto, or Carpignano Sesia. Look for designated parking areas within these localities, often near public spaces or trailheads.

Among the longer routes, the Ancient village of Masserano – Castelletto Cervo Castle loop from Arborio covers approximately 53.9 km, and the Vineyard of the Giant Pencils – Castello di Proh loop from Carpignano Sesia is about 50.5 km long, offering extensive rides through the region.

While the terrain is largely flat, the extensive rice fields offer unique panoramic views, especially during different seasons when they are green or flooded. The river environments along the Sesia also provide scenic stretches. For expansive views of the plain extending towards the Alps, a visit to the spire of the Basilica of San Gaudenzio in nearby Novara is recommended.

The towns and villages that serve as starting points or pass-throughs for the mountain bike routes, such as Arborio, Recetto, and Carpignano Sesia, will typically have local cafes, bars, or trattorias where cyclists can stop for refreshments and meals. Vicolungo itself is known for its shopping outlets, which also offer dining options.