Cycling Turin and Cuneo, Piedmont

Table of contents

This guide contains a lot of useful information. To help make it more digestible, we’ve broken it down into several parts:

• Part 1: Piedmont overview
• Part 2: Turin
• Part 3: Cuneo
• Part 4: Connecting Turin and Cuneo
• Part 5: Tips for cycling Piedmont

Part 1: An overview of Piedmont

Piedmont sits in north-west Italy, bordering France and Switzerland. Surrounded by the Alps on three sides, it is one of Italy’s strongest regions for cycling, with famous mountain roads, quieter valleys, vineyard hills and a long connection to professional racing.

Turin is the capital and largest city, but the region stretches far beyond the city itself. Piedmont includes high Alpine valleys, rolling wine regions, rivers, historic towns and some of Italy’s best-known climbs.

For cyclists, Piedmont is closely linked to the Giro d’Italia. The region regularly features in the race and has also hosted stages of the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. Climbs such as Colle delle Finestre, Colle Fauniera and Colle dell’Agnello are well-known names amongst followers of pro cycling and firmly part of cycling history.

One of Piedmont’s strengths is the contrast between riding styles. Some areas are focused on long Alpine climbs and high mountain passes. Others suit gravel riding, leisure cycling or quieter countryside cycling routes through vineyards, rivers and smaller villages.

People also visit Piedmont because there is plenty to enjoy off the bike. The region is known for wine, food and historic towns, with local specialities including Barolo, white truffles, chocolate and Alpine cheeses.

In this guide, we focus on two of Piedmont’s standout cycling areas:

Turin is best known for city access, the Superga climb and routes into the Susa Valley, including Colle delle Finestre and Colle del Moncenisio.

Cuneo is known for quieter Alpine valleys, major climbs such as Colle Fauniera and Colle dell’Agnello, and high-altitude gravel routes including the Alta Via del Sale.

Read on for a closer look at each area, including where to ride, where to base yourself and what to know before you go.

Part 2: Turin

2.1 Why should cyclists visit the Turin region of Piedmont?

From the city to the Alps

The Turin region is one of Piedmont’s most practical cycling areas. It combines a major city base with quick access to hills, valleys and high mountain roads.

Turin gives cyclists accommodation, transport links, bike shops, cafés, museums and plenty to do off the bike. It is also close enough to the hills and mountains to make varied riding possible without complex logistics.

This makes the region useful for different kinds of cycling trips. Riders can use Turin as a base for shorter rides, or head deeper into the valleys for more demanding mountain days.

Classic climbs close to Turin

Some of the region’s best-known rides are within easy reach of the city.

Superga is the classic local climb, rising into the hills east of Turin. Further west, the Susa Valley opens the way to bigger mountain roads, including Colle delle Finestre and Colle del Moncenisio.

Further into the mountains, areas such as Bardonecchia, Sestriere and Via Lattea give riders access to high-altitude roads, old military routes and trails. This makes the Turin region especially strong for cyclists who want to combine road, gravel and MTB riding in one trip.

A strong cycling culture

Cycling is part of the identity of the Turin region.

The area has hosted major races and stages, and many of its roads are familiar to fans of professional cycling. Milan-Turin, Giro del Piemonte and stages of the Giro d’Italia have all helped build the region’s cycling profile.

For visiting cyclists, this history adds context to the riding. The roads are not just scenic. Many have been shaped by more than a century of Italian cycling culture.

Cyclist-friendly services

Cyclists will find a useful network of services across the Turin region.

There are repair shops, guides, marked cycle routes and cyclist-friendly accommodation in many of the main riding areas. For more information, visit the Turismo Torino e Provincia website. For bike hire providers see below. 

The Valsusa and Via Lattea Bike Experience network is a useful resource for riders heading into the mountains. It includes hotels, B&Bs, holiday farms, campsites and lodges that understand practical needs such as secure storage, early starts, packed lunches and route suggestions.

Beyond the bike

The Turin region also works well for a cycling holiday because there is plenty to do between rides.

Turin has historic cafés, museums, royal residences, Baroque architecture and strong links to chocolate and coffee culture. Outside the city, riders can visit Alpine villages, castles, forts, lakes and mountain valleys.

Local food is part of the appeal too, including cheeses, grissini, honey, chocolate, cakes and biscuits. Find out more about the local dishes on the Turismo Torino e Provincia website.

2.2 An overview of the Turin region from a cyclist’s perspective

Where is the Turin region?

The Turin region sits in north-west Italy, in the Piedmont region. Turin is Piedmont’s capital and lies close to the western Alps, near the border with France.

From a cycling perspective, its position is one of its biggest strengths. The city sits on the plain around the River Po, but high mountains rise to the west and north-west. This means riders can access flat routes, hills and major Alpine climbs from the same region.

The wider Turin area includes famous cycling valleys and mountain bases such as the Susa Valley, Pinerolo, Bardonecchia, Sestriere, Ceresole Reale and Moncenisio.

What is the terrain like?

The Turin region is shaped by the contrast between plain, hills and mountains.

Turin itself sits on flatter land around the River Po. This area is good for easier rides, riverside cycling and routes close to the city.

East of Turin, the Turin hills offer shorter climbs and scenic roads. Superga is the best-known example.

To the west and north-west, the terrain becomes more mountainous. The Susa Valley and surrounding Alpine areas give access to climbs such as Colle delle Finestre, Colle del Moncenisio, Colle del Monginevro and Colle del Sestriere.

There is also good gravel and mountain biking terrain. Riders can find dirt roads, old military roads, trails through woods and meadows, and routes that pass hamlets, pastures and mountain refuges.

What are the roads like for cycling?

The roads in the Turin region are generally good and varied. There are cycle paths, quiet rural roads, Alpine valley roads, mountain climbs and unpaved cycling routes for gravel riders.

In the plains and hills, cyclists can find many quieter roads with relatively little traffic. There are also routes along rivers and irrigation canals, as well as marked cycleways such as the Ciclovia del Po, Via Francigena, Ciclovia delle Risorgive and Ciclovia della Pietra.

The main road climbs are usually asphalted and suitable for road bikes. Gravel riders also have plenty of choice, especially on unpaved mountain roads and old military tracks.

Cyclists should take care on busier main roads, particularly close to Turin and larger towns. Italian driving can feel assertive, but respect for cyclists is now becoming widespread in the region.

What kind of cyclist is the Turin region best for?

There are options for everyone!

• Road cyclists can ride famous climbs used by the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France and Vuelta a España. These include Colle delle Finestre, Colle del Nivolet, Colle del Moncenisio, Colle del Sestriere and Superga.
• Gravel riders and mountain bikers will find trails, mule tracks, dirt roads and military roads through the Alps. The Susa Valley, Bardonecchia and Via Lattea areas are particularly strong for this kind of riding.
• Leisure cyclists can enjoy easier routes on the plains, along cycle paths and through valley floors. There are also family-friendly options in flatter areas and on shorter mountain trails. Suitable routes for leisure cyclists include the Ciclovia del Po, Via Francigena, Ciclovia delle Risorgive and Ciclovia della Pietra.

The region can suit many fitness levels, but the famous Alpine climbs require good fitness and mountain experience.

2.3 What are the best places for cyclists to base themselves in the Turin region of Piedmont?

There are several cycling bases that work well in the region. Each area offers a different kind of riding. This means cyclists can either stay in one place and focus on nearby routes or move between bases to experience more of the region.

• Turin is the best base for riders who want city accommodation, good transport links and easy access to the River Po and Superga.
• Susa, Bardonecchia and Sestriere are better for Alpine climbs, gravel routes and mountain biking such as Colle della Scala and Colle del Sestriere.
• Pinerolo works well for mixed terrain, cycling history and easier routes, giving access towards the Ciclovia della Pietra and Ciclovia delle Risorgive.

More on each below!

2.4 Things to know before visiting the Turin region

What are the key cycling events in the Turin region?

Professional cycling has deep roots in the Turin region because its roads link the city, valleys and high Alpine passes in a way that suits dramatic race stages.

The Giro d’Italia, Tour de France and Vuelta a España have all used these roads, while historic races such as Milan-Turin and Giro del Piemonte add to the area’s cycling identity.

There are also several events for amateur riders, including gravel, MTB and climbing-focused events. These include Granfondo Sestriere, Assietta Legend, Pellegrina Bike Marathon, Nova Eroica Ivrea, Tutti a Pinerolo Gravel Event and the Grandi Scalate del Pinerolese.

For visiting cyclists, the appeal is clear. You can ride the same climbs and valleys that have shaped major races, including Colle delle Finestre, Colle del Moncenisio, Colle del Sestriere and Superga.

Where should cyclists stay in the Turin region?

The Turin region has a strong choice of cyclist-friendly accommodation. This is not just hotels. Riders can also find B&Bs, agriturismos (farm-based accommodation), campsites and lodges set up for cycling trips.

A useful place to start is the Valsusa and Via Lattea Bike Experience. This network brings together accommodation offering services like secure bike storage, basic workshop facilities, pumps, repair kits, laundry services and electric bike charging. Cyclists may also be able to arrange early breakfasts, packed lunches and local route insights.

Some accommodation goes further, with welcome snacks, cycling information, weather updates, public transport details and help connecting riders with hire shops, mechanics, guides and other local services.

Top tip! Book in advance, especially at weekends and during high season.

Can you find bike hire and bike rental shops in the Turin region?

Yes. Bike hire is available in the Turin region, especially in Turin and the better-equipped mountain resorts.

Mountain bikes and touring bikes are generally easier to find. Road bikes and gravel bikes may be less widely available, so it is best to arrange these in advance.

Bike hire, repair shops and cycling services can be found throughout the area. The Valsusa and Via Lattea Bike Experience network is also useful for finding cycling-focused services.

For more information on bike rental, visit the Turismo Torino e Provincia website.

Top tip! If you need a specific bike type, size or gearing for the Alpine climbs, book before you travel.

Part 3: Cuneo

3.1 Why should cyclists visit the Cuneo region of Piedmont?

High mountains, quiet roads and famous climbs

The Cuneo region is one of Piedmont’s best areas for cyclists who want big mountain riding without losing the sense of being somewhere local and authentic.

This is where riders come for Colle Fauniera, Colle dell’Agnello and the road to Sant’Anna di Vinadio. These are serious climbs, with long gradients, high altitude and strong links to Italian cycling history.

But Cuneo is not only about road cycling. The area also has high-altitude gravel routes, old military roads, riverside cycle paths, quiet rural lanes and easier rides through parks and historic towns.

This makes the region a good choice for cyclists who want to mix challenging mountain days with gentler rides and time off the bike. For more route ideas, see the ATL del Cuneese’s itinerary search page.

From Cuneo into the valleys

Cuneo works well as a cycling base because several valleys spread out from the city towards the mountains.

Each valley has its own character. Valle Grana is closely linked with Colle Fauniera and Castelmagno. Valle Maira and Valle Stura are known for mountain roads, gravel routes and wilder scenery. Limone Piemonte is the main hub for the Alta Via del Sale.

Further north, Saluzzo gives access to the Monviso valleys and climbs such as Colle dell’Agnello and Colle di Sampeyre. Around Mondovì, the riding is more rolling, with hills, vineyards and villages.

This means cyclists can choose the kind of riding they want, rather than being tied to one style of route.

Legendary climbs and cycling events

The Cuneo region has a deep connection with Italian cycling.

Its roads have hosted memorable moments in the Giro d’Italia. Colle Fauniera is closely linked with Marco Pantani and still one of the region’s most symbolic climbs for fans of Italian cycling.

Many of its climbs are also part of the Scalate Leggendarie initiative, which draws road cyclists to the area each summer.  With selected Alpine passes closed to motor traffic on specific dates, so cyclists can ride them in safety.

Colle Fauniera is one of the standout climbs because of its length, altitude and links to Marco Pantani, who attacked here during the 1999 Giro d’Italia. A memorial to Pantani now stands near the summit. Colle dell’Agnello, Colle di Sampeyre, Colle d’Esischie and Madonna del Colletto also give road cyclists serious mountain challenges.

For gravel riders and mountain bikers, routes such as the Alta Via del Sale, Strada dei Cannoni and Gardetta Plateau offer high-altitude riding on historic roads.

The events calendar reinforces the region’s cycling reputation. Key events include La Fausto Coppi, GF Étape Piemonte by Tour de France, GF Alpi del Mare, the Via del Sale MTB Race and the Giro d’Italia Women Grand Final.

Cyclist-friendly services

Cyclists will find a growing network of services across the Cuneo region.

The Cuneo Bike Experience is a local cycling tourism network which brings together accommodation providers, bike hire services, workshops, guides and logistics operators. It is a useful starting point for planning a cycling trip.

The tourist office in Cuneo also has a bike room, which acts as a hub for cyclists. Services include bike rental, charging stations, technical support and logistical help.

Cyclists are a familiar sight across the Cuneo region, particularly in the valleys, mountain areas and around the main cycling events. Many local businesses are used to welcoming riders and understand practical needs such as secure storage, early starts and route information.

Food and culture

The Cuneo region also works well as a holiday destination beyond cycling.

Towns such as Cuneo, Mondovì, Fossano, Saluzzo and Savigliano offer historic centres, architecture, museums and local culture. The wider region also includes castles, royal residences and natural parks.

Food is another reason to visit. Local specialities include:

• Castelmagno DOP and Raschera DOP, two Piedmontese cheeses
• Porro di Cervere, a prized leek from Cervere
• Cuneo IGP apples, a protected red apple variety
• Piedmontese beef, one of the region’s best-known meats
• Polenta, a traditional cornmeal dish
• Bagna caoda, a traditional warm dipping sauce
• Ravioles and cruzet, two types of traditional local pasta

The wider outdoor offer is also strong, with the Maritime Alps, Marguareis, Monviso and Gesso and Stura River Park all adding to the experience.

The atmosphere is authentic and welcoming. This is a region where local communities continue to have a close connection to the land, food and local culture.

3.2 An overview of the Cuneo region from a cyclist’s perspective

Where is the Cuneo region?

The Cuneo region sits in south-west Piedmont, close to the French border. It lies between the plains of Piedmont and the Maritime and Cottian Alps.

From a cycling perspective, its position is one of its biggest strengths. The city of Cuneo sits where several valleys meet, which makes it a useful base for reaching different riding areas.

The wider Cuneo area includes Alpine valleys, rolling hills, river parks and flatter plains. Key cycling bases include Cuneo, Mondovì, Saluzzo, Fossano, Savigliano and Limone Piemonte.

What is the terrain like?

The terrain in the Cuneo region changes quickly.

The city of Cuneo sits at the centre of the area, with the Maritime and Cottian Alps rising to the south and west. The valleys converge towards Cuneo, giving cyclists access to several different mountain areas from one region.

• The mountain areas are best for challenging road climbs, high-altitude gravel routes and mountain biking. This is where riders will find major passes, former military roads and rugged Alpine scenery.
• The Monregalese area, around Mondovì, is more rolling. It has hills, vineyards and historic villages, which makes it good for road cyclists, gravel riders and confident leisure cyclists.
• The plains around Cuneo, Fossano and Savigliano are flatter. Routes here often follow rivers, including those in the Gesso and Stura River Park, and are well suited to leisure cycling and families.

What are the roads like for cycling?

Road conditions in the Cuneo region are generally good for cycling.

The road network reflects the geography. There are high-altitude gravel roads, quiet valley roads, secondary rural lanes and busier roads in the plains.

The best riding is usually on secondary roads, marked routes and mountain roads with lighter traffic. Busy valley-floor roads and main roads in the plains are best avoided where possible.

Cyclists are generally well received. The region has a strong cycling tradition and motorists are used to seeing riders, especially on popular routes and in mountain areas.

Paved road surfaces are usually good, particularly on main tourist routes and well-known climbs. Gravel roads and high-altitude tracks can be loose or uneven, so they are better suited to gravel bikes, MTBs or e-MTBs.

In the mountains, route planning is important. Cyclists should think about altitude, weather, water, navigation and timing before setting out.

What kind of cyclist is the Cuneo region best for?

The Cuneo region suits many kinds of cyclists.

• Road cyclists can take on major Alpine climbs, including Colle Fauniera, Colle dell’Agnello, Colle di Sampeyre and Madonna del Colletto.
• Gravel riders and mountain bikers have access to high-altitude tracks, old military roads and routes such as the Alta Via del Sale, Strada dei Cannoni and Gardetta Plateau.
• Leisure cyclists can enjoy flatter routes around Cuneo, Fossano and Savigliano, as well as riverside rides through the Gesso and Stura River Park.

The region can suit different fitness levels, but route choice matters. The big Alpine climbs require strong fitness. High-altitude gravel routes need endurance and good handling skills.

E-bikes have made some of the more demanding routes more accessible, but the mountains still require careful planning.

Families are best suited to the flatter routes in the plains, river parks and low-traffic secondary roads.

To discover more routes and local insights, read our in-depth guide to gravel cycling in Piedmont, including Cuneo’s secret strade bianche.

3.3 What are the best places for cyclists to base themselves in the Cuneo region of Piedmont?

The Cuneo region works well across four main cycling areas. Each has a different feel, from high-altitude gravel roads to family-friendly river routes and famous Alpine climbs. Cyclists can stay in one base and focus on nearby routes, or move between areas to experience more of the region.

• Cuneo is the best base for riders who want access to several Alpine valleys, road climbs, bike services and easier routes close to town.
• Saluzzo is a good base for riding the Monviso climbs.
• Mondovì is a good base for riders who enjoy rolling roads, hill climbs and routes through the Monregalese villages.
• Limone Piemonte is best for high-altitude routes and riding the Alta Via del Sale.

More on each below!

3.4 Things to know before visiting the Cuneo region

What are the key cycling events in the Cuneo region?

The Cuneo region has a strong cycling events calendar, with granfondos, professional races, MTB events and international cycling events.

One of the most important events is La Fausto Coppi. It starts and finishes in Piazza Galimberti in Cuneo and is one of Italy’s best-known granfondos. In 2026, La Fausto Coppi is scheduled for 28 June. The granfondo route is 172 kilometres with more than 4,300 metres of elevation gain. The mediofondo is 111 kilometres with around 2,500 metres of climbing. The route includes Colle di Sampeyre, Colle d’Esischie, Colle Fauniera and Madonna del Colletto. It is best suited to experienced cyclists.

The GF Alpi del Mare is another important event. It is part of the Tour de France granfondo series and takes place in Mondovì. In 2026, it is scheduled for 20 September. The route is 110 kilometres with 2,271 metres of elevation gain. It crosses the hills of the Monregalese and the Ligurian Alps, with rolling roads, short climbs and technical descents.

Other key 2026 events include:

• GF Étape Piemonte by Tour de France, starting in Entracque, on 31 May.
• Giro d’Italia Women Grand Final, Saluzzo to Saluzzo, on 7 June.
• Via del Sale MTB Race, starting from Limone Piemonte, on 21 June.

For visiting cyclists, these events are a useful way to experience the region’s cycling culture. However, the Cuneo region is also appealing outside event dates, thanks to its famous climbs, gravel routes and quiet roads.

Can you find bike hire and bike rental shops in the Cuneo region?

Yes. Bike hire, repair services and specialist cycling shops are available in the Cuneo region.

The Cuneo Bike Experience network is the best starting point. It brings together bike rental services, workshops, guides and logistics support across the region.

E-bikes and MTBs are particularly useful here, especially for riders tackling gravel routes, mountain tracks or longer climbs.

The Bike Room in Cuneo can also help with rental, charging stations, technical support and bike logistics.

Top tip! Book hire bikes in advance if you need a specific size, bike type or gearing for the Alpine climbs.

Part 4: How do the Turin and Cuneo regions of Piedmont connect for cyclists?

4.1 How to pick between Turin and Cuneo for a bike trip

Turin and Cuneo work well together as a two-centre cycling trip. They sit in the same wider Piedmont region, but offer different styles of riding.

• Turin is stronger for city access, the Susa Valley, Superga, Colle delle Finestre and the roads towards Sestriere.
• Cuneo is better for the Maritime Alps, Colle Fauniera, Colle dell’Agnello, the Gardetta Plateau and the Alta Via del Sale.

Together, they give cyclists a broader picture of Piedmont: city riding, river routes, rolling countryside, high Alpine climbs, gravel roads and famous race history.

4.2 Can you ride between Turin and Cuneo?

Yes. It is possible to ride between Turin and Cuneo, either as a direct transfer ride or as part of a longer trip.

A direct Turin to Cuneo ride is around 90 kilometres, depending on the start, finish and route. This makes it achievable in a day for fit road cyclists, though route choice matters.

The more interesting option is to turn the connection into a staged ride. Cyclists can link Turin, Pinerolo, Saluzzo and Cuneo, using quieter roads, river routes and foothill towns rather than treating the ride as a simple transfer.

Cuneo and Turin are also on EuroVelo 8, the Mediterranean Cycle Route. The Piedmont section of EuroVelo 8 connects Cuneo to Turin and is approximately 130 kilometres long. The route largely follows the foothills, passes through Saluzzo, crosses the Via delle Risorgive between Airasca and Moretta, and winds its way along a mix of cycle paths, minor roads and dirt tracks.

Bikepacking is also possible, particularly for riders who want to connect both regions without relying on transfers. A light bikepacking setup would allow cyclists to spend a night in towns such as Pinerolo or Saluzzo before continuing towards Cuneo.

A more ambitious version could include the Susa Valley, Sestriere or French border climbs before heading south towards Cuneo. This would suit experienced riders with good fitness and careful route planning.

For cyclists who love a challenge, epic climbs and have plenty of time to spare, there is also a route that crosses numerous mountain passes in the valleys of the provinces of Cuneo and Turin. This would be best suited to experienced cyclists with strong fitness, careful route planning and suitable weather conditions.

You can check the route below:

Terms of use reminder

4.3 Are there any historic cycling links between Cuneo and Turin?

The most famous historic connection is the Cuneo to Pinerolo stage that is part of Giro d’Italia legend. In 1949, Fausto Coppi won the Cuneo to Pinerolo stage after a huge solo ride over Colle della Maddalena, Col de Vars, Col d’Izoard, Colle del Monginevro and Sestriere. The stage was around 254 kilometres with more than 5,000 metres of climbing. More information on this story here.

For modern cyclists, the full historic route is a serious undertaking. It crosses into France and involves major Alpine passes. It is best seen as an experienced rider’s challenge or a multi-day bikepacking objective, rather than a standard transfer route.

The Giro also returned to the Cuneo to Pinerolo idea in 2019, with a shorter stage between the two towns.

4.4 Could you ride one area, then the other?

Yes, and this may be the easiest option for most visitors.

Cyclists could spend a few days in Turin for Superga, the River Po and the Susa Valley, then transfer to Cuneo for Colle Fauniera, Limone Piemonte, the Gesso and Stura River Park or the Monviso valleys.

This approach avoids needing to carry luggage by bike. It also means riders can choose the best base for each type of riding.

4.5 How do you get from Turin to Cuneo?

By bike, the direct ride can be around 90 kilometres, depending on the route.

By train, riders can usually travel between Turin and Cuneo via regional rail services, though bike rules and spaces should be checked before travel.

By car or private transfer, the journey is straightforward and may be easier for cyclists travelling with bike boxes, luggage or multiple bikes.

4.6 Why combine Turin and Cuneo?

Combining the two areas gives cyclists a richer Piedmont trip.

Turin brings city culture, easy logistics, Superga, the Susa Valley and famous Giro climbs such as Colle delle Finestre. Cuneo brings a quieter mountain feel, food culture, Colle Fauniera, Monviso, Limone Piemonte and high-altitude gravel.

It also lets cyclists follow part of Piedmont’s cycling story, from Coppi’s legendary Cuneo-Pinerolo ride to modern Giro and granfondo routes.

4.7 How do Turin and Cuneo compare?

Turin and Cuneo complement each other well as cycling destinations, but they offer slightly different experiences.

The Turin region is more closely connected to the city, with quicker access to famous race climbs, major transport links and a mix of urban and Alpine riding. It suits cyclists who want variety and flexibility, with everything from riverside cycle paths to high mountain roads within relatively short distances.

The Cuneo region feels more remote and mountain-focused. The valleys are quieter, the landscapes more rugged and the riding often more closely tied to high Alpine terrain, gravel roads and longer climbs. It is especially appealing for cyclists looking for a stronger sense of adventure and fewer crowds.

Together, the two regions give cyclists access to a huge range of riding styles across western Piedmont.

Part 5: Tips for cycling in Piedmont

5.1 What is the best time of year to go cycling in Piedmont?

The best time to cycle in Piedmont depends on where you want to ride.

When is the cycling season around Turin?

For the Turin region, the main cycling season runs from April to October. Lower routes around Turin, the plains and the hills are usually best in spring and autumn, when temperatures are more comfortable. High-altitude routes in the mountains are usually accessible from June to October. In the lowlands, the best times are spring and autumn.

When is the best time to cycle in the Cuneo region?

For the Cuneo region, late spring to early autumn is best, with June to September the key period for high-altitude routes. Roads such as the Alta Via del Sale, Gardetta Plateau and Strada dei Cannoni usually open after the snow has melted. September is often considered the best month for its milder temperatures, quieter roads and excellent riding conditions.

July and August usually offer full access to high-altitude routes and services, but lower areas can be hotter. May and early June are better for road cycling in lower valleys, hills and plains, as well as easier rides around towns such as Saluzzo and Mondovì.

Be aware! Winter and early spring are not ideal for Alpine cycling. Snow, unstable weather and seasonal closures can affect high passes and gravel roads.

5.2 How do you get to Piedmont?

Turin is the main gateway for most international cyclists visiting Piedmont.

By air

Turin Airport

Turin Airport is the most convenient airport for the Turin region. The city also has strong rail connections, with Torino Porta Nuova and Torino Porta Susa acting as the main train stations.

Milan airports

For international visitors, Milan Malpensa Airport is also a useful gateway to Piedmont. It offers a wider range of long-haul and international flight connections than Turin.

Milan Malpensa is around one hour and 30 minutes to two hours by car or private transfer from Turin, depending on traffic. The journey to Cuneo is usually around two and a half to three hours by car or private transfer.

Cuneo access

For Cuneo, many international visitors will arrive via Turin or Milan, then continue by train, car or transfer.

Cuneo is also accessible via the A6 Turin-Savona motorway and A33 Asti-Cuneo. Nearby airports include Cuneo Levaldigi, Turin, Genoa and Nice.

Trains and public transport

Rail links connect Cuneo with Turin and Liguria, while the Cuneo-Saluzzo-Savigliano railway line is useful for cyclists moving between plains and Alpine areas.

Public transport can help with cycling trips, but bike rules vary. Always check whether bikes are allowed on your chosen train or bus and whether you need to pay an extra fare.

Top tip! If travelling with a bike box, check space and conditions before booking transport. Private transfers may be easier for remote valleys, high mountain routes or point-to-point trips.

5.3 What tips should cyclists know before riding in Piedmont?

Route choice matters in Piedmont

Piedmont is a region where route choice matters. You can ride flat riverside paths, quiet rural roads, hill routes, major Alpine climbs and high-altitude gravel tracks.

The best approach is to match your route to your fitness, bike and experience.

In both Turin and Cuneo, the best riding is usually away from the busiest main roads. Look for cycle paths, secondary roads, valley roads and marked cycling routes.

Choose cycle paths and quiet back roads where you can. Avoid main roads with heavy traffic, especially near larger towns.

Plan carefully for altitude

Many of Piedmont’s headline rides take cyclists high into the mountains.

Altitude affects both effort and conditions. Climbs can feel harder, temperatures can be much cooler than in the valleys and weather can change quickly.

For high mountain rides, start early, check conditions before setting out and carry enough water, food and layers. A GPS device or offline navigation is also important on remote gravel routes.

In high-mountain environments, a GPS device or offline navigation tracks are not just helpful but effectively essential for safety and orientation.

For more tips, read our guide to cycling at altitude. 

Know the Italian cycling rules

Cyclists in Italy must follow the national Highway Code.

Front and rear lights are required in low visibility. Helmets are compulsory for under-18s. Outside built-up areas, cyclists may need to ride in single file.

On specific high-altitude routes, extra rules may apply. This is particularly relevant on the Alta Via del Sale, where access rules and seasonal openings should be checked before riding.

Pack for the ride you are doing

Bring the usual essentials for a cycling trip: repair kit, spare tubes, pump, layers, waterproof jacket, gloves, sun protection and navigation.

For high-altitude gravel or rough terrain, a mountain bike, e-MTB or suitable gravel bike is recommended.

Weather can change quickly in the mountains, even in summer, so layered clothing is strongly recommended.

Take a look at our in-depth packing guide for more useful suggestions.

Be realistic about fitness

You do not need to be an expert cyclist to enjoy Piedmont. There are easy river routes, cycle paths and gentler rides around the plains and lower valleys. There are options suitable for sports enthusiasts and tourists.

However, the big Alpine climbs require preparation, with many routes requiring endurance rather than explosive power. Routes such as Colle delle Finestre, Colle del Moncenisio, Colle del Sestriere, Colle Fauniera and Colle dell’Agnello involve long climbs and significant elevation gain.

Carry food and water in the mountains

Food and water are usually easy to find in towns, valleys and villages. In the mountains, services can be less frequent.

Food and water are generally easy to find while riding, but carry extra supplies on longer mountain routes.

Carry enough water and snacks for remote routes, especially on high-altitude gravel rides.

The Piedmont region has a background in good food. Turin and its province are particularly known for chocolate and gianduiotti, as well as local specialities such as canestrelli, nocciolini di Chivasso, paste di meliga, bagna cauda, agnolotti del plin and vitello tonnato.

In Cuneo, look out for polenta, bagna caoda, ravioles and cruzet. For more information, visit ATL del Cuneese’s food page.

Learn a few useful Italian words

You do not need to speak Italian, but a few words can help, especially in smaller valleys.

Useful words include:

• Buongiorno: good morning/good afternoon
• Buonasera: good evening
• Acqua: water
• Colle: mountain pass
• Sterrato: dirt road
• Aperto: open
• Chiuso: closed

What’s next?

Thanks to Alberto and Gabriella for sharing these insights into cycling in Turin and Cuneo.

Looking for more exciting content on cycling in Italy?

• Cycling Tuscany, for classic cycling routes and beautiful hill towns
• Cycling the Italian Lakes: an insider’s guide, including the best bases and routes
• Cycling Verona, for vineyard roads, historic towns and varied riding
• Cycling Sardinia, featuring coastal routes, quiet inland roads and mountain climb
• Cycling Stelvio Pass region, Italian Alps: your ultimate guide, for legendary climbs and high mountain scenery