Lake Viverone and Lake Candia Loop

This ring tour is rated as moderate for road cyclists. While sections around Lago di Viverone are generally easy to moderate and mostly paved, connecting the two lakes involves navigating the undulating terrain of the Canavese area. Expect a mix of flat roads and rolling hills, with some significant elevation changes between the lakes. The route is primarily suitable for road bikes, but some mixed surfaces might be encountered.

The route offers diverse scenery. You'll enjoy views of Lake Viverone, often from characteristic terraced vineyards, and panoramic views of Lake Candia. Other highlights include a Scenic Road Through the Fields and a View of Lake Viverone from the vineyards. The journey between the lakes takes you through the picturesque Canavese region, with its rolling hills, charming villages, and vineyards.

Yes, you'll find several scenic spots. Look for the View of Lake Viverone from the vineyards, offering a beautiful perspective of the lake. Around Lago di Candia, the Romanesque Church of Santo Stefano provides spectacular panoramic views. The area around Lago di Viverone also features archaeological sites of pile dwellings, a UNESCO Heritage site.

While there isn't one universally designated starting point, you can typically find parking in the towns around Lago di Viverone or Lago di Candia. Consider starting from a village like Viverone or Candia Canavese, where public parking is usually available, allowing easy access to the lake loops and the connecting roads.

Generally, cycling routes in this region are dog-friendly, especially on public roads and paths. However, specific rules may apply within the Parco Naturale del Lago di Candia. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially near wildlife or other cyclists, and ensure they are comfortable with the distance and pace of a road cycling tour.

The best time to cycle this route is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, and the natural scenery, including vineyards, is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot, especially in July and August, while winter can be cold and potentially wet.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route or to access the Parco Naturale del Lago di Candia. The park is freely accessible, but visitors are expected to respect local regulations regarding waste disposal, noise, and protection of flora and fauna. Always stay on marked paths and roads.

Yes, this road cycling tour intersects with several other paths. You will find sections that overlap with the Ciclostrada Dora Baltea, Buon Cammino 3, and the Alta Via dell'Anfiteatro Morenico di Ivrea Tappa 3. Other minor intersections include parts of the Sentiero delle Pietre Bianche and the Via Francigena - 02 Piedmont.

Yes, the Canavese region is renowned for its food and wine, particularly the Erbaluce wine from the vineyards around Viverone. You'll find numerous opportunities for gastronomic stops in the villages around both lakes and along the connecting roads. Look for local cafes, restaurants, and agriturismi to sample regional products.

Given its moderate difficulty, undulating terrain, and nearly 80 km distance with almost 600 meters of elevation gain, this tour might be challenging for absolute beginners. While individual lake loops can be easier, the combined route requires a reasonable level of fitness and experience with road cycling. Beginners might consider cycling only around one lake first.

This tour is specifically designed for racebikes (road bikes). The route primarily follows paved roads, making a road bike the ideal choice for efficiency and speed. While some sections might have mixed surfaces, a road bike with appropriate tires should handle the terrain well. Gravel bikes could also be suitable if you prefer more versatility.