A loop itinerary among Piedmont‘s most fascinating landscapes: the Roero is an area in the province of Cuneo rich in hills, ancient villages clinging to the heights, rows of vines and delicious culinary traditions.

The starting and ending point of the route is. Govone, the village that for a few years now can be considered “The Land of Christmas,” for its rich calendar of events, including the Marketplace, 3rd in Italy, consisting of as many as 75 wooden cottages that among Christmas decorations, cribs, nougats and mulled wine house the excellent craftsmanship and gastronomic of the territory.

The route is marked by hard, non-technical roads, with easy if steep descents and climbs no more than 1 km long. A trail suitable for everyone, but better if equipped with “good legs”. The less trained can still shorten the route (see technical description) or push the bike a bit by hand along the three planned climbs.

Along the way, there are numerous viewpoints between rows of vines and cultivated fields overlooking the Tanaro, Langhe and Monferrato. It also skirts a Tartufaia and with any luck you can watch a search demonstration.

Technical description:
The 18-km route is suitable for everyone and can be walked all year round. You face three climbs with a maximum gradient of 12-14% and associated descents, along small roads and not trails. Three kilometers are on asphalt (beginning and end, with a section in the middle that is spectacular for its environment and views), at km 16,800 the dirt road ends and we continue to the end on a lightly traveled provincial road.
N.B.: At km 11, you can take the four-lane road to the right and shorten the route by 4 km, eliminating a climb. Be careful not to underestimate the low elevation; the route is physically demanding.

Route type: loop
Length: 18 km
Height difference in ascent: 355 m
Height difference on descent: 355 m
Highest point: 281 m
Lowest point: 158 m
Type of surface: mixed

Technical tips:
Difficult to puncture tires on this route but a puncture-proof reserve is always recommended. Clothing without special precautions. Water is found at the start (fountain at the parking lot of Govone Castle) and at the halfway point, however, the trail often flanks hamlets.

Municipality of departure: Govone
Starting location: Park of the Royal Castle of Govone
Municipality of arrival: Govone
Place of arrival: Park of the Royal Castle of Govone

Recommended period:
March to late October

Where to park:
In the large cobblestone square in Govone Castle Park, easy to get to and shaded

Useful links:
http://www.magicopaesedinatale.com