Lots of nature and your bike: the Valle Maira Photo: stock.adobe.com/Chris
From our editorial team
Adventure, views and alpine tranquillity. When mountain bikers think of Italy, names like the Dolomites often come to mind first, Liguria or Lago di Garda.
But if you look off the beaten track, you will come across a region in the far west of the Alps that even die-hard trail fans will rave about: the Piedmont - and especially the Valle Maira. A landscape as if painted, paired with alpine demands, technical variety and Italian hospitality: the valley is considered one of the last real insider tips in Italy by experienced mountain bikers.
Spectacular nature in the Cottian Alps
The Valle Maira is located in the Cottian Alps, close to the French border - a region full of high alpine scenery, wild gorges, endless rock faces and wide valleys. What is particularly striking here is the tranquillity. No lifts, no bike park hustle and bustle - but a natural experience that relies on your own skills.
Demanding trails that challenge
The single trails in Valle Maira have it all: technical, varied, close to the Alps. Anyone travelling here will encounter flowing passages, rooty sections, rocky hairpin bends and exposed crossings. Many routes follow historic military trails or old trade routes - and tell their own story along the way.
Classics such as the Colle Ciarbonet, Colle delle Munie or Monte Bellino offer intensive day or multi-day tours - with great panoramic views and real trail character.
With shuttle, but without crowds
Shuttle services are now available for many routes - discreetly organised, often by local guides who know the valley like the back of their hand. The infrastructure remains small-scale and sustainable, no mass processing, but targeted support for demanding riders who prefer to save metres in altitude in order to fully enjoy the downhill experience.
Small villages, great hospitality
What also characterises Piedmont is its atmosphere: original, personal, Italian. In the small villages of the Valle Maira, guests stay in family-run alberghi or rifugi, eat homemade tajarin or chestnut gnocchi - and socialise with their hosts over a glass of Barbera in the evening. Instead of the après-bike hustle and bustle, there are starry skies and silence here.
Who is the Valle Maira suitable for?
Experienced bikers in particular, who are fit and like technical challenges, will find their paradise in Valle Maira. However, those who prefer a more leisurely approach will also find tours - especially in the lower valley area or on combinable alpine routes. The combination of alpine sophistication and local authenticity makes the region so special - and appealing to anyone looking for the real thing.
The official information about the Valle Maira can be found here
