The best cycling routes in Torino

The Assietta Loop offers a demanding touring bicycle experience through the Italian Alps, covering 35.3 miles (56.8 km) with a significant 5602 feet (1707 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route, often called the "Ride of the Two Thousand" for its consistently high elevation, takes around 5 hours and 35 minutes to complete. You will cycle along a historic military ridge road, enjoying high alpine landscapes and views of the Pelvoux massif and Mont Chaberton.

To make the most of your ride, plan your visit for Wednesdays and Saturdays during July and August. On these specific days, sections of the Strada dell'Assietta are closed to motorized vehicles, providing a more peaceful and enjoyable experience. Be prepared for rough gravel terrain and ensure you have a very good level of fitness for the sustained climbs.

This route is set within the Parco Naturale del Gran Bosco di Salbertrand, offering more than just a physical challenge. As you pedal, you will encounter ancient military fortifications, particularly around Testa dell'Assietta, adding a unique historical layer to the natural beauty. The trail provides a true gravel adventure for those seeking a memorable ride in a high-altitude setting.

Embark on the Crown of Delights Bicycle Route, a challenging touring cycling adventure spanning 62.4 miles (100.4 km) with an elevation gain of 1557 feet (475 metres). This difficult route will take you approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes to complete, offering a unique blend of urban landscapes and peaceful natural environments. You will cycle through parks, alongside the Po River, and past agricultural areas, often feeling far removed from city traffic. A major highlight is admiring the majestic Royal Savoy Residences, including the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge and Rivoli Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will also catch views of the Superga Hill and its Basilica.

This ring route provides great flexibility, allowing you to start and finish your ride at any point that suits you. The trail is well-connected to public transport, with several train stations located along the way. This makes it easy to plan shorter rides or to return by train if you prefer not to complete the entire loop. Consider starting early to make the most of the daylight and to avoid busier times on the route.

The Crown of Delights Bicycle Route is notable for its historical significance, connecting a series of former royal residences that once belonged to the House of Savoy. These grand palaces and hunting lodges offer a glimpse into the region's rich past and architectural heritage. The route provides a distinct way to explore the historical and natural beauty surrounding Turin, making it a memorable experience for any touring cyclist.

The Nivolet Pass Trail offers a challenging touring bicycle ascent through Gran Paradiso National Park. As you climb, you will experience a dramatic shift in scenery, moving from forested areas to rugged, high-alpine landscapes. This difficult route covers 22.4 miles (36.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of 4223 feet (1287 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 4 minutes to complete. You will pass impressive glacial lakes like Lago Serru and Lago Agnel, surrounded by towering peaks and waterfalls.

Planning your ride requires attention to the season, as this high-altitude route is generally only open during the warmer months due to snow. Always check local conditions before you set out, as it is an isolated mountain climb. If you plan your visit for a summer Sunday, you can enjoy an even more peaceful experience, as the road from Lago di Serrù to the summit is closed to motorized traffic on those days.

This route is recognized as one of Europe's notable alpine climbs, particularly suited for experienced cyclists seeking a demanding ride. The final 5 kilometers are especially memorable, featuring 14 hairpin turns that offer expansive views of the surrounding mountain environment. It is a journey that showcases the raw beauty of the Gran Paradiso National Park.

Embark on a difficult touring bicycle ascent to Colle del Nivolet from Noasca, a challenging ride covering 33.4 miles (53.8 km) with a significant 5938 feet (1810 metres) of elevation gain. This route takes you through the stunning Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso, offering varied rock formations, cliffs, and pastures. You will pass numerous alpine lakes like Lago Serru and Lago Agnel, with the final hairpin bends providing exceptional views over these high-altitude waters. Expect to spend around 4 hours and 29 minutes on this demanding climb.

Starting your journey from Noasca, be aware of a steep tunnel section; you can bypass this by taking a very steep alternative route to the left, which was reconditioned in 2019. The road generally features good quality tarmac, though some narrow stretches appear higher up. For an even more serene experience, plan your ride for Sundays during summer, when the road from Diga di Serru upwards is closed to motor vehicles, allowing you to enjoy the upper reaches car-free.

This high alpine pass, reaching 2,612 metres to 2,614 metres, is nestled deep within Italy's oldest national park. It is famously known as a "Road to Nowhere" because the paved road effectively ends shortly after the summit, leading to significantly lighter traffic. The Colle del Nivolet also holds a unique place in cinematic history, serving as the setting for an iconic scene in the 1960s film "The Italian Job."

Embark on a touring bicycle adventure through La Mandria Park, a moderate 20.9-mile (33.7 km) loop that offers a delightful escape into nature. You will gain 739 feet (225 metres) in elevation over approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes, cycling past extensive lowland forests, open meadows, and tranquil waterways. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer as you pass by the historic Royal Palace of Venaria Reale, a prominent landmark on this scenic route.

When planning your visit, you will find the route generally accessible, with mostly paved surfaces suitable for various touring bikes. Bike rentals are available at locations such as Cascina Prato Pascolo if you need equipment. There are also several refreshment points and picnic areas along the way, making it easy to take breaks and enjoy the surroundings.

This route takes you through one of Europe's largest enclosed parks, rich in history and natural beauty. Beyond the Royal Palace, you will also encounter the charming La Mandria Castle Village. On clear days, you might even catch distant views of the Alps, adding another layer to the diverse landscape and making this a truly unique touring experience in the region.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Forti Serre Marie e delle Valli – loop tour, a difficult route spanning 17.1 miles (27.4 km). You will face a significant elevation gain of 3360 feet (1024 metres), making this tour suitable for cyclists in excellent physical condition. The route primarily features paved surfaces, with over 20 kilometers of asphalt, but also includes about 5.35 kilometers of unpaved sections, offering varied terrain as you cycle through mountainous landscapes. Expect to complete this demanding loop in approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes, enjoying views of the Alpine region.

To prepare for this difficult cycling tour, ensure you have the physical stamina required for its substantial elevation gain over a relatively short distance. The trail is accessible via the SP172 road, which leads directly to Forte Serre Marie. While specific details on parking or public transport are not provided in the research, planning your visit around the fort's location on a main road should offer straightforward access. Always check local conditions before you go, especially regarding weather in the Alpine region, to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

The most notable feature of this loop tour is its rich historical significance, centered around Forte Serre Marie. This fort is an integral part of the larger Fenestrelle Fortress system, renowned as the largest Alpine fortress in Europe. Built in 1727 to defend the Chisone valley, the Fenestrelle Fortress extends over 3 kilometers and showcases unique architecture. After being abandoned post-World War II, Forte Serre Marie has been restored, offering you a chance to explore an important historical site while enjoying a challenging ride.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure through the Val Troncea Natural Park, where you will navigate primarily gravel roads that wind through a U-shaped valley carved by ancient glaciers. You will pass through dense larch and stone pine forests, alongside the Chisone stream, and past hamlets like Plan and Pattemouche. This difficult 15.7-mile (25.3 km) route features a significant 1778 feet (542 metres) of elevation gain, culminating in panoramic Alpine views from Alpe Mey, situated at approximately 2,040 meters (6,693 feet).

Planning your visit requires good fitness, as this is classified as a hard bike ride; some steeper segments towards Alpe Mey may even require you to push your bike. While the full ascent from Pragelato involves a substantial climb, the route offers a rewarding experience for those prepared for the effort. The estimated duration for this tour is around 2 hours and 29 minutes, so ensure you allocate enough time for the full journey.

This trail stands out for its authentic gravel cycling experience within a protected natural park, immersing you in diverse environments from forested valleys to rugged alpine peaks. Alpe Mey itself offers the possibility of an overnight stay and a chance to enjoy local dishes, enhancing your touring experience. The tranquil, bucolic valley is also popular for other outdoor activities, making it a well-regarded destination for nature lovers seeking both challenge and natural beauty.

Embark on the Superga and Turin Hills Loop, a demanding touring cycling adventure that takes you through the verdant landscapes of the Parco Naturale della Collina di Superga. This difficult route spans 35.0 miles (56.4 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 2643 feet (806 metres), culminating in the iconic climb to the Basilica of Superga. You can expect to complete this challenging journey in about 3 hours and 43 minutes, enjoying diverse scenery and rewarding views along the way.

When planning your ride, be ready for substantial gradients, especially on the ascent to Superga, where some sections can reach up to 18%. While the roads are mostly paved, you might encounter bumpy stretches and potentially heavy car traffic, particularly on weekends. This loop requires a very good level of fitness due to its considerable elevation changes, so prepare accordingly for a strenuous but rewarding experience.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, offering panoramic vistas of Turin and the majestic Alps from the Basilica of Superga, a Baroque architectural masterpiece. As you cycle, you'll traverse scenic roads like the Superga Panoramic Road, winding through the regional park and providing numerous viewpoints. The trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural environment of the Turin hills while experiencing a challenging and memorable ride.

Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure around the picturesque Avigliana lakes. This ring tour covers 13.2 miles (21.2 km) with a modest elevation gain of 381 feet (116 metres), making it suitable for cyclists of any fitness level. You will enjoy extensive lakeside views as you cycle, with the imposing Sacra di San Michele overlooking the protected natural park area. Expect a relaxing ride that takes approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the starting point of the tour is conveniently reachable by public transport. The route is predominantly on paved surfaces, ensuring a comfortable experience for your touring bike. This makes it an ideal choice for a leisurely outing to enjoy the outdoors without demanding technical skills or strenuous climbs.

This route is recognized as the most popular touring cycling trail in the Avigliana area, celebrated for its accessibility and stunning natural environment. The trail circles the two glacial lakes, Lago Grande and Lago Piccolo, which are part of the natural park of Avigliana Lakes, a region rich in biodiversity. It offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and an enjoyable ride for anyone looking to explore the area.