The best cycling routes around Regional Park Laghi Suviana e Brasimone

There are over 110 touring cycling routes in Regional Park Laghi Suviana e Brasimone. These routes offer a wide range of experiences, from moderate loops around the lakes to more challenging climbs through the Apennine forests.

The park offers a varied topography, with altitudes ranging from 468 to 1,283 meters above sea level. You'll encounter picturesque routes winding around the three large artificial reservoirs (Lake Suviana, Lake Brasimone, and Lake Santa Maria), as well as paths through mixed forests of oak, beech, and coniferous trees, and along sandstone ridges. Expect both gentle sections and demanding ascents.

While the park features many challenging routes, there are also moderate options that could be suitable for beginners or families looking for a less strenuous ride. For example, the Lake Brasimone – Lake Brasimone loop from La Guardata is a moderate 13.4-mile (21.6 km) route offering scenic views around the lake, which could be a good starting point.

The park is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past the expansive Lake Suviana and Lake Brasimone, enjoy views from points like Geppe's Cross, and explore dense forests, including clearings like the Clearing in the Beech Forest of Laghi di Suviana e Brasimone. The varied landscape includes gorges and sandstone ridges, offering diverse scenic backdrops.

Yes, the region offers cultural points of interest. You might encounter the picturesque medieval village of Bargi, with remnants of a castle wall, or the abandoned 17th-century hamlet of Chiapporato nestled among ancient chestnut groves. Palazzo Comelli, an 18th-century mountain architecture example, is another notable site.

The park is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. The mixed forests provide shaded routes during warmer months. During September and October, the belling of deer can be heard, adding a unique natural ambiance to your ride, making these months particularly appealing for wildlife enthusiasts.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Pian del Toro – Acquerino Refuge loop from Ca' de Fanti is a difficult 28.6-mile (46.0 km) path featuring significant elevation gain through the forested areas of the Apennines. Another demanding option is the Lake Brasimone – Lake Brasimone loop from Bagucci, a difficult 45.8-mile (73.7 km) route with substantial climbing.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Regional Park Laghi Suviana e Brasimone are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular Lake Brasimone – Lake Brasimone loop from La Guardata and the more challenging Piano del Voglio – Futa Pass loop from Rasora.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 250 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic beauty of the lakes, and the varied topography that offers options for different ability levels. The quiet, forested routes and opportunities for wildlife observation are also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. Many routes are designed to showcase the stunning lakes. For instance, the View of Lake Santa Maria – Lake Brasimone loop from Rasora is a difficult 17.2-mile (27.7 km) route specifically highlighting views of Lake Santa Maria and Lake Brasimone. You'll find numerous viewpoints along the shores and from higher elevations.

Yes, the sparse human habitation in recent decades has led to a significant increase in wildlife. Cyclists often have opportunities to spot deer (the park's symbol), roe deer, fallow deer, and wild boar along the trails. During September and October, the belling of deer is a common and memorable sound.