Piedmont and Lake District More Miles for Less
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From Lakes Orta and Maggiore to Monferrato, across the foothills of the Alps
Highlights
- Spins in the Lake District along Lago d'Orta and Lake Maggiore
- Rides through three historic areas being considered as the latest UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Monferrato, Langhe and Roero)
- Quiet and smooth country roads lead us to the panoramic Oasi Zegna, with the Alps on oneside and flatlands on the other
- A mix of quaint Inn like accommodations and 3&4-star hotels
- Visits to historic villages of Monferrato, known for Barbera, Ruche' and Grignolino wines
- Discover the Piedmontese cuisine famous for its “antipasti” (hors d’oeuvre)
Description
Piedmont is truly a cycling paradise. The peaceful roads and tranquil lakes of northern Piedmont only frame the panoramic views of Alps, vineyards and plains that make for some of the best riding in all of Italy. As you roll west through the countryside, our best guides will acquaint you with this region, rich in history, dramatic landscapes, cuisine, wine, and of course, truffles.
On the bike, you will get to places you would never get to experience with any other mode of transportation. From the foothills of the Alps, to the Oasi Zegna and its panoramic views, to Biella, surrounded by sheep farms and known for its superior woolen goods.
The Alps mark our horizon for the next two days as we move to the Canavese area. This amphitheater originated from a glacier moving south from Mont Blanc. The glacier left a flat-sided mountain, unique in its length, as well as several lakes dotting the flatland. We stay by Viverone Lake, a peaceful spot at the end of the Serra d’Ivrea.
Our last ride to the end of the tour unwinds through the Monferrato Hills, crossing Italy’s longest river, the Po, to reach the little village of Penango where we will enjoy a pool, the tranquil countryside and a fabulous dinner prepared from raw materials mostly locally produced: buon appetito!
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Price
$2,795
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Single Supplement
$350
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Ability Level
Intermediate
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Terrain
Rolling
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Distance
224 mi / Daily Average 45 mi
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Departing
Penango (Asti)
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Arriving
Lago d'Orta
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Bike Rental
Included!
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Dates
- May 27, 2013
- Confirmed | July 22, 2013
- August 19, 2013
- October 21, 2013
Day 1–2: The Lake District - Lago d'Orta and Maggiore
Day 1: Benvenuti! (Welcome!) The smallest but most charming of the Italian Lakes is our backdrop for our first day's ride: lago d'Orta.
Day 2: On today’s loop ride we reach the Lago Maggiore and follow its shores to the beautiful towns of Stresa and Arona, with their wonderful gardens and peaceful atmosphere. This ride can be spiced up by a challenging climb in the natural area of Monte Mottarone, several times climbed on the Giro d'Italia.
Day 3: Biella and the Oasi Zegna
Our cycling route to Biella is glorious and rolling, with chestnut forests and the breathtaking Oasi Zegna environmental reserve surrounding us most of the way. Founded by famous Italian designer Ermenegildo Zegna, the reserve is meant to showcase the beauty of the lesser-known villages of Piedmont.
Day 4: The Canavese
Here you'll get to ride a "Serra" up close. This area was formed by a glacier millions of years ago, and we'll ride its now green and peaceful valleys toward Piedmont's Lago di Viverone.
Day 5: Fiume Po, Dora and Monferrato
Spinning along the Dora, an estuary of the Po, Italy's longest "fiume" (river), the rolling route is dotted with tiny villages that date back centuries. After the Po river crossing, the wine-rich lands of the Monferrato awaits on the opposite banks. This region is currently being considered as one of the newest UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Day 6: Arrivederci!
Goodbye Monferrato! After breakfast, around 9 AM, we will provide one shuttle to Asti train station (30 min ride), where you can catch trains to all other destinations in Italy. We will be happy to assist you with your travel plans!
Guides for this trip
