The best traffic-free bike rides around Lake delle Piane

There are over 45 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lake delle Piane and in the broader Biellese region. These routes cater to various skill levels, from leisurely lakeside loops to more challenging rides through the hills.

The terrain around Lake delle Piane is quite diverse. You'll find relatively flat, accessible paths around the lake's 8 km perimeter, ideal for relaxed rides. Further afield, routes venture into rolling wooded hills to the north and expansive agricultural plains to the south, offering a mix of gentle slopes and more significant elevation changes, particularly in the broader Biellese area.

Yes, the accessible 8 km loop directly around Lake delle Piane is perfect for families, offering minimal elevation gain and scenic views. For other family-friendly options, look for routes categorized as 'easy' in the region, which often traverse the flatter agricultural plains or dedicated cycle paths.

Beyond the serene lake itself, you can enjoy the contrasting landscapes of wooded hills with oak and chestnut forests, and the green agricultural plains known for rice cultivation. Keep an eye out for the distinctive 'Rive Rosse' (Red Shores) in areas like Sola di Mezzana to Bioletto in Curino, which offer unique natural views.

The mild climate of the Piedmont region generally makes spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) ideal for touring cycling around Lake delle Piane. During these seasons, temperatures are pleasant, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant, with blooming flowers in spring and rich foliage in autumn. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially for early morning or late afternoon rides to avoid the midday heat.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Lake delle Piane are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the 8 km loop directly around the lake is a popular circular option. You can also find longer circular routes that explore the surrounding Biellese countryside, such as the Collegiate Church of the Annunciation – San Teonesto Church loop from Lessona.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the diverse scenery ranging from tranquil lakeside paths to rolling hills, and the opportunity to experience the authentic Piedmontese landscape.

While Lake delle Piane itself is a natural attraction, the broader Biellese region offers cultural points of interest. For instance, the Castellengo – Ricetto of Candelo loop from Lessona can take you past historic sites like the Ricetto of Candelo, a well-preserved medieval fortified village, offering a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.

Absolutely. Out of the 45+ no-traffic touring cycling routes, you'll find a good distribution of difficulty levels. There are 4 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 27 difficult routes. This ensures that both beginners looking for a relaxed ride and experienced cyclists seeking a challenge can find suitable options.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages surrounding Lake delle Piane, such as Lessona or Masserano, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Look for designated parking areas near the beginning of your chosen tour. Specific parking details are often provided within individual route descriptions on komoot.

Yes, Lake delle Piane is also popular for hiking. There's a popular 6.29 km easy hiking loop around the lake, allowing you to combine a leisurely walk with your cycling trip. The wooded hills and agricultural plains also offer opportunities for nature observation and photography.