Alto Verbano Cadorna Line MTB Loop
Alto Verbano Cadorna Line MTB Loop
4.6
(75)
229
riders
02:11
21.9km
550m
Mountain biking
Explore the historic Linea Cadorna on this moderate 13.6-mile mountain bike loop with panoramic Lake Maggiore views and WWI fortifications.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes a very steep uphill segment
You may need to push your bike.
After 4.58 km for 599 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
765 m
Highlight • Trail
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Tip by
1.01 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tip by
3.06 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tip by
10.5 km
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Tip by
16.6 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
21.9 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.2 km
3.87 km
2.68 km
101 m
Surfaces
10.7 km
3.93 km
3.78 km
3.51 km
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Elevation
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Weather
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Saturday 11 July
32°C
21°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 3.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail is generally considered a moderate or intermediate mountain biking route. While the overall physical exertion is rated around 6/10, some ascents, especially towards Monte Spalavera, can be sustained and may require pushing your bike. Descents can be technical in parts, rated around 7/10, with excavated paths, roots, and singletrack sections that demand good technical skills.
The main 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' route is moderate, so it might be challenging for absolute beginners or young children. However, simpler variants, such as an 'easy and comfortable' Linea Cadorna Ring with minimal climbing, are available and suitable for families and beginners. Always check the specific route variant before you go.
This mountain bike tour is generally a half-day ride. Depending on your fitness level, the specific variant chosen, and trail conditions, it can take anywhere between 3 and 4 hours to complete.
Specific parking information is not detailed in the provided sources, but the trail is located in the Verbano area, between the municipalities of Oggebbio and Aurano, on the western side of Lake Maggiore. It's advisable to check local municipality websites or komoot's tour planner for designated parking areas near the start of the route.
The trail offers varied terrain, including unpaved sections (around 10.7 km), asphalt (around 3.93 km), dirt roads (around 3.78 km), and natural paths (around 3.51 km). You'll also encounter singletrack sections (around 2.68 km) and secondary roads. The military roads are often well-maintained dirt paths, but some parts can be rocky or have roots, especially on descents. There are also sections with tunnels carved into the rock.
The route is rich in historical and scenic highlights. You'll find breathtaking vistas of Lake Maggiore, the surrounding pre-alpine lakes, the Po Valley, Monte Rosa, and the Swiss Alps. Key points include the Start of the Cadorna Road towards the Monte Morissolo tunnels, the Strada Cadorna Panoramic Trail (View of Lake Maggiore), and the Singletrack Colle–Morissolo and View of Lake Maggiore. You'll also pass by Alpe Archia and the Pian D'Arla - Zipline Start Point, offering unique views. The trail also features historical military fortifications like trenches, artillery positions, and barracks.
The 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail can be ridden almost all year round. However, it's important to exercise caution in case of recent snowfall, as some sections might become difficult or impassable. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery.
The provided information does not explicitly state rules regarding dogs on the 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail. It is generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash on shared trails and to check local regulations or park rules before bringing your pet.
There is no mention of permits or entrance fees required to access the 'Sulla storica Linea Cadorna – giro ad anello' trail in the provided sources. It is generally open to the public.
The trail passes by Alpe Archia, which is categorized as a hut, suggesting it might offer some services or refreshments. For other services, it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the longer variants, as specific refreshment points are not extensively detailed along the entire route.
The Linea Cadorna is a massive defensive military line built during World War I near the Swiss border. Its purpose was to protect Italy from a potential Austro-German invasion through neutral Switzerland. The trail repurposes these 'war tracks' into a 'path of peace,' allowing riders to explore well-preserved fortifications like tunnels, trenches, barracks, and observation posts.
Comments
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This tour is a must-do.
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