Itinerary of the 2 Gulfs Loop

No, this route is generally classified as a moderate mountain bike ride, requiring good fitness and advanced riding skills. Some sections, particularly enduro trails within the larger Monte Pollone area, can be considered difficult or expert-level (STS S2, with parts potentially reaching STS S3-S6). Riders should be prepared for varying technical demands, and some portions may even necessitate pushing the bike.

Mountain biking within the Portofino Regional Nature Park is subject to strict regulations. Cycling is generally permitted only on marked tracks and exclusively during weekdays. It is forbidden on weekends, days before holidays, and annually between April 1st and June 30th. An important exception is for cyclists accompanied by an authorized MTB guide from the sport association A.S.D. Portofino Bike, who can access the trails any day of the year.

The route features a diverse range of terrain. It typically begins with asphalt climbs, transitioning to gravel roads and wider dirt roads within the Portofino Regional Nature Park. The trail also includes singletrack sections, some of which are described as having jumps, steep turns, and rock steps. These singletracks can be very rutted or washed out, adding to the technical challenge.

The loop typically starts from Portofino. While specific parking details for mountain bikers are not provided, you would generally look for parking options in Portofino or nearby towns like Santa Margherita Ligure, which often serve as starting points for routes in the area.

Along the route, you'll pass through the picturesque town of Portofino and near the Chapel of San Sebastiano. A significant portion of the ride takes place within the shaded forest of the Portofino Regional Nature Park, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Tigullio and the Gulf of Genoa. You'll also encounter specific trail sections like the Monte Pollone Nozarego Downhill Trail and the San Lorenzo Trail.

Yes, this is a loop trail, as indicated by 'giro ad anello' in its name, meaning 'ring route' or 'loop'.

While the Portofino Regional Natural Park generally allows dogs, specific regulations for mountain biking with dogs on this particular trail are not detailed. Given the technical difficulty and strict access rules for mountain biking, it's advisable to check with local park authorities or an authorized guide regarding bringing dogs on this specific route.

The best time to mountain bike this route is outside of the prohibited period, which is annually between April 1st and June 30th. Additionally, mountain biking is only permitted on weekdays, excluding weekends and days before holidays. Therefore, late autumn, winter, or early spring on a weekday would be ideal, keeping in mind weather conditions.

Yes, there are several water points available along the route, which can be helpful for refilling bottles during your ride.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths within the park. Notable sections include parts of the Itinerario dei 2 Golfi, Via della Costa - tappa 9, Sentiero Liguria - Tappa 9, and Sentiero Liguria - Tappa 10. You may also encounter segments of the Raccordo Monte Croci di Nozarego and the San Lorenzo della Costa - Portofino Vetta trail.

To bypass the strict access restrictions (no weekends/holidays, no April 1st-June 30th), consider booking a ride with an authorized MTB guide from the sport association A.S.D. Portofino Bike. This allows access to the trails any day of the year, providing flexibility and ensuring compliance with park regulations.