Mountain Biking in Val Camonica: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Stretching 90 kilometres (56 miles) from the Tonale Pass to Corna Trentapassi, Val Camonica is a hidden gem for Italian mountain biking.

The valley, which also contains plenty of side valleys and ravines, boasts hundreds of kilometres of trails to explore on a bike. Some of these are simple descents, while others are multi-kilometre loops.

Among the favourite downhill runs are from Doss de l’Ora, Dosso Fobia and Do della Roca. Each of these runs is perfect for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers and involve at least 400 vertical meter descents, while not much climbing is involved in any of them.

There are also plenty of longer and more complicated rides to. Among the most popular starting points are Piz Tri, San Fermo and Val di Sabio. Each involve various ascents and descents, while taking riders along sometimes challenging tracks and through some of the region’s most stunning scenery.

Stunning scenery

Boasting rivers, mountains, lakes and forest, Val Camonica contains plenty of incredible natural beauty. Heading out on a mountain bike is the best way to take in as much of the valley’s natural beauty as possible. From the snow-capped peaks of the Baitone Mountains to the pristine shores of Lake Iseo, there is plenty of terrain to explore and experience on a mountain bike.

Plenty to do

Val Camonica boasts dozens of incredible mountain biking routes, from long cross country rides to steep mountain descents. Many of these routes are circular as well, meaning one can start from Breno and after a long day of peddling, end back up there. Heading across the valley is another popular multi-day option, which allows for visiting various towns and cultural sites along the way.

Come for the culture

In spite of its relatively small size, Val Camonica is jam-packed with plenty of cultural attractions, many of which can be visited on a bike. A must see, however, is the greatest complex of petroglyphs in all of Europe (a UNESCO World Heritage site). There are also plenty of castles and medieval villages all throughout the valley, two of which have been recognized as the most beautiful in Italy.

During the summer months, average daily temperatures hover between 20 ºC and 25 ºC (68 ºF to 77 ºF). Summer is also the driest time of year, when an average of 40 to 60 millimeters (1.5 to 2.4 inches) of rainfall each month.

Any trip to Val Camonica begins with a flight into Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). From here, it is easiest to rent a car and make the 2 hour drive to Val Camonica. It is also possible to get to the valley by a combination of train and bus.

Italian

+39

Euro

June to September