The best cycling routes in Riserva Regionale Scanuppia

There are over 200 touring cycling routes in Riserva Regionale Scanuppia, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 45 easy routes, 40 moderate routes, and 119 difficult routes.

The region features diverse terrain, from high peaks and green meadows to dense forests of fir, beech, larch, and pine. You can expect significant elevation gains on many routes, as the area is part of the Dolomites mountain range. For example, the View of Castel Beseno – View of Castel Beseno loop from Mattarello involves over 1,490 meters of ascent.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options, particularly among the 45 easy routes available. Routes near the Adige Cycle Path offer mostly paved surfaces and gentler gradients. An example is the Trento Airport – Adige Cycle Path loop from Regole, which is an easy 7.4 km ride with minimal elevation gain.

The best time for touring cycling is generally from spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and trails are clear of snow. The region's high peaks mean that higher elevation routes might still have snow earlier in spring or later in autumn. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many routes offer sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Dolomites, Monte Baldo, and the Brenta, Bondone, and Paganella Dolomites. You can also see historical sites like Castel Beseno, an impressive medieval fortress. The View of Castel Beseno – View of Castel Beseno loop from Mattarello provides excellent views of this landmark.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 3,700 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning alpine and pre-alpine landscapes, the variety of challenging and scenic routes, and the rich cultural and natural heritage of Trentino.

Yes, many routes in Riserva Regionale Scanuppia are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Sommo Pass – Lake Lavarone loop from Folgaria and the Folgaria – Folgaria Town Centre loop from Folgaria.

While the broader region offers extensive cycling opportunities, it's important to note that the main paved access road into the core Riserva Regionale Scanuppia from Besenello is officially closed to cyclists due to its extreme steepness (sections exceeding 30% gradient) and to protect the reserve's biodiversity. Cyclists should adhere to all local signage and regulations to ensure responsible access. For more detailed information on the reserve, you can visit visittrentino.info.

Public transport options are available to reach towns near the Riserva Regionale Scanuppia, such as Besenello and Folgaria. While some local buses or trains may accommodate bikes, it's advisable to check with the specific transport provider beforehand regarding their policies for carrying bicycles, especially during peak seasons.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages surrounding the Riserva Regionale Scanuppia, such as Mattarello, Folgaria, and Besenello, which serve as starting points for many routes. Look for designated parking areas in these communities. Specific trailheads may have limited parking, so planning ahead is recommended.

Yes, the towns and villages surrounding the Riserva Regionale Scanuppia, including Besenello and Folgaria, offer various cafes, pubs, restaurants, and accommodation options. These places provide convenient spots for refreshments, meals, or overnight stays before or after your cycling adventures.

Absolutely. The region is known for its challenging routes with significant elevation gains. Many of the 119 difficult routes will test experienced cyclists. For example, the Dos del Bue Alpine Hut – Valsorda loop from Novaline is a difficult 19.8 km route with over 630 meters of ascent.