The best cycling routes around Gornate Olona
4.4
(1351)
13,439
riders
348
rides
Touring cycling around Gornate Olona is characterized by its location within the Olona Valley, a region shaped by the Olona River. The terrain features a mix of flat plains and gentle inclines, suitable for various cycling abilities. Cyclists can explore diverse environments, including wetlands, broadleaf forests, and historical industrial sites. The area offers a network of cycle paths that follow the river's course and connect cultural landmarks.
Best touring cycling routes around Gornate Olona
- The most popular touring cycling route is View of Santa Maria del Monte – Gornate Olona Waterfall loop from Venegono Inferiore, a 33.6 miles (54.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours 53 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain and passes by the Gornate Olona Waterfall.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Monastero di Torba loop from Castiglione Olona, an easy 9.6 miles (15.4 km) path. This route offers a gentle ride through the landscape, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Monastero di Torba.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Chiesa di Rovate – Rovate Trail loop from Castelseprio, a 8.8 miles (14.1 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Gornate Olona is defined by the Olona Valley, the Olona River, and historical sites like Monastero di Torba. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy riverside paths to more challenging routes with elevation.
- The routes in Gornate Olona are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,100 reviews. More than 12,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Gornate Olona's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
27
riders
14.1km
01:17
160m
170m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(5)
35
riders
17.1km
01:14
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
6
riders
22.5km
01:19
110m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
28.8km
01:46
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
you stay cool even during the hot hours
0
0
You approach the route of the former Valmorea Railway, with its disused station and enter the cycle path that heads towards the real Gurone Dam, a structure 12 metres high above the river level and 156 metres long, built between 2004 and 2009 and capable of generating a reservoir of more than a million cubic metres. The construction was necessary because this stretch of the valley has always been subject to flooding from the Olona (around 70 have been recorded since the 15th century), such as the most recent ones in 1995 and 2002. The cycle path now climbs along its embankments with an almost linear route and a gradient of almost 12%, built in this way so as not to interfere with the structure of the dam and its hydraulic characteristics. Once you reach the top, be careful on the descent. After reaching the closest point to the river, you start following the railway again, of which you can see sections of tracks in the woods. Now on the right we have the Pedemontana motorway and you cycle in one of the tunnels created during its construction. You can now reach the small public garden equipped with a rack with e-bike charging and a self-repair kit or, keeping to the left at the roundabout and crossing the provincial road, you head south. We are in the Lozza plain, which you cross on the side of the railway embankment with a long straight stretch before arriving at a narrow peninsula formed on the left by the Olona and on the right by the Selvagna stream. After crossing the stream, the path goes to the side of the provincial road to enter Castiglione Olona. On the right, the railway system of the former station opens up, where you can still see some carriages. At the crossing, keep left to continue on the cycle path, while instead you will go to the right to reach the historic village.
1
0
This cycle path connects the Swiss border with Castellanza, it develops between the Lanza Valley and the Olona Valley in a succession of natural environments, evidence of human work and truly surprising historical-architectural sites. The chosen direction, from North to South, allows you to travel downhill on the sections with greater slopes.
0
0
Beautiful cycle path along the Olona river
0
0
Beautiful cycle path along the Olona river
0
0
The Rile Tenore Olona park, often known by the acronym RTO, is a protected natural area that develops around the course of three waterways. It extends over about ten municipalities in the province of Varese and is affected by fluvio-glacial terraces.
0
0
Climbing the "little Stelvio"
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Gornate Olona?
There are over 340 touring cycling routes in Gornate Olona, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and skill levels. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.4 stars.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Gornate Olona?
The region around Gornate Olona is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and mild temperatures, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summers can be warm, but the routes often feature shaded sections along the Olona River and through forests, making them enjoyable.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Gornate Olona offers numerous easy routes. For example, the Monastero di Torba loop from Castiglione Olona is an easy 9.6-mile (15.4 km) path that provides a gentle ride through the landscape, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Monastero di Torba. Another easy option is the Cairate Bridge – Castello di Orago loop from Castelseprio.
What historical and cultural sites can I explore by bike?
Many routes in Gornate Olona weave through areas rich in history. A notable highlight is the Castelseprio Archaeological Park, a significant historical site. You can also visit the Monastero di Torba, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is accessible via several routes like the loop from Castiglione Olona. The region also features remnants of industrial archaeology, such as old paper and ceramics factories along the Olona Valley Cycle Path.
Are there any scenic natural features or viewpoints along the routes?
The Olona Valley itself provides a scenic backdrop, with the Olona River shaping the landscape. Routes often pass through diverse environments, including wetlands and broadleaf forests. The Start of the cycle path – Gornate Olona Waterfall loop from Venegono Inferiore features a waterfall. Additionally, the nearby Lake Varese Cycle Path offers panoramic views and pleasant lakeside picnic areas.
Can I find routes that pass by lakes or water bodies?
Yes, the region is close to Lake Varese, and the Lake Varese Cycle Path is a popular option for scenic lakeside cycling. You can also find tranquil spots like the Lakeside picnic area on Lake Varese and the Ca' Bianca Pond, which are accessible from Gornate Olona.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Gornate Olona?
Many touring cycling routes in Gornate Olona are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Monastero di Torba loop from Castiglione Olona and the Monastero di Torba loop from Castelseprio, both offering convenient circular journeys.
What amenities are available for cyclists, such as e-bike charging or repair stations?
The Olona Valley Cycle Path, a primary cycling route in the area, is known for catering to modern cyclists. It features an e-bike charging station and a self-repair kit, ensuring you have support during your ride.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes starting from Gornate Olona?
While many routes are shorter loops, the Olona Valley Cycle Path itself is a significant long-distance route. It connects the Swiss border to Castellanza, offering a diverse cycling experience through natural settings and historical sites. This path can be integrated into longer touring plans from Gornate Olona.
What are the most challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking a challenge, routes with significant elevation gain are available. The Start of the cycle path – Gornate Olona Waterfall loop from Venegono Inferiore is a difficult 33.6-mile (54.0 km) trail with over 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another difficult option is the Chiesa di Rovate – Rovate Trail loop from Castelseprio.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Gornate Olona?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil landscapes, the blend of natural beauty with historical sites like Monastero di Torba, and the well-developed cycle paths that cater to various skill levels.
Most popular routes around Gornate Olona
Most popular attractions around Gornate Olona
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
