MTB Bicknell Cycle Route Adventure

Bicknell Cycle Route is a sports-tourist route that develops into a loop from the Mediterranean coast into the hinterland of the Maritime and Ligurian Alps, straddling Italy and France.

Inspired by the explorations of Clarence Bicknell, an English botanist from the late 19th century who chose Bordighera as his place of residence, this route is more than just a classic path, it's a real journey through places visited and described in this innovative scientist's great research work.

Starting from Bordighera, through a train approach along the Ventimiglia, Breil-Sur-Roya, Tende route, the route takes bikers to the peaks of the Roya Valley and then continues towards the surroundings of Casterino and the Valley of Wonders. Afterwards, the journey continues through the villages of La Brigue, Triora, Molini di Triora, and Bajardo to reach the heights of Sanremo, from where it finally returns to Bordighera through the Montenero hiking network.

• Difficulty: medium
• Duration: 3 days/2 nights or extended 4 days/3 nights
• Lenght: 115 km
• Elevation gain: 4000 m + / 5000 m -

Advice: This route is recommended for people with a decent level of fitness and sufficient technical ability to handle a bicycle. Given the nature of the route, it is advised to divide the experience into multiple days, with a first stop in Tenda or Casterino and an eventual second stop in Triora or Molini di Triora for those less trained.

• PROGRAM

  DAY 1 – In the Footsteps of Wonders | From Bordighera to Tende

  Following in the footsteps of Clarence Bicknell more than a century after his explorations, the Bicknell Cycle Route begins on the seafront of Bordighera and gradually ventures into the wild Roya Valley.
  After departing from the Riviera dei Fiori, the journey continues aboard the legendary Train des Merveilles, the historic panoramic railway connecting the Mediterranean coast to the Maritime Alps through spectacular viaducts, tunnels carved into the rock, and breathtaking alpine valleys.
  Upon arrival in the medieval village of Tende, a guided visit to the renowned Museum of Wonders introduces riders to the history, culture, and archaeological heritage of these fascinating borderlands, preparing them for the outdoor adventures of the following days.
  From here, the first high-altitude ride begins. The route climbs towards Casterino, Clarence Bicknell’s historic summer retreat, crossing dense pine forests and spectacular alpine landscapes.
  The day concludes with an enjoyable descent into the beautiful Fontanalba Valley, in the heart of the Maritime Alps.

  DAY 2 – Sacred Art and Ancient Legends | From La Brigue to Triora

  The second day of the Bicknell Cycle Route crosses territories suspended between alpine culture, wild nature, and ancient borderland legends.
  The day begins in La Brigue with a visit to one of the most remarkable sites in the Maritime Alps: the Sanctuary of Notre Dame des Fontaines, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Alps.” Its extraordinary 15th-century frescoes reveal a unique artistic and spiritual heritage set in the heart of the mountains.
  Leaving the sanctuary behind, the route climbs once again through the dense larch and fir forests of the Sanson area, following ancient alpine roads and crossing pristine landscapes before returning to Italian territory.
  The itinerary eventually reaches Triora, the famous medieval village known as the “Village of Witches.” With its stone alleyways, ancient herbal traditions, and stories linked to the witch trials of the 16th century, Triora still retains a mysterious and captivating atmosphere.
  It is a place that would undoubtedly have fascinated Clarence Bicknell, whose passion for botany, nature, and traditional mountain knowledge perfectly reflects the spirit of this remarkable village.

  DAY 3 – From Peaks to Palms | From Triora to Bordighera

  The final day of the Bicknell Cycle Route takes riders from the mountains of inland Liguria back to the sea of the Riviera dei Fiori, completing an extraordinary journey between the Alps and the Mediterranean.
  The ride begins in the enchanting village of Triora, surrounded by mountain scenery and mysterious atmospheres, before climbing towards Monte Ceppo through magnificent beech forests and high-altitude woodlands.
  From the summit, one of the most spectacular panoramas of the entire itinerary unfolds: a natural 360-degree balcony overlooking both the Ligurian Alps and the Maritime Alps, where mountains and sea seem to merge into one landscape.
  The descent continues towards Bajardo, an ancient mountain village linked to druidic traditions and a place that deeply fascinated Clarence Bicknell for its rare flora and extraordinary biodiversity.
  As the route approaches the coast, the scenery changes dramatically. The scent of the sea fills the air, alpine forests give way to Mediterranean vegetation, and the sandy trails of the Monte Nero trail network accompany the final kilometers towards the sea.
  The return to Bordighera concludes a journey of approximately 115 kilometers through alpine culture, historic trails, unspoiled nature, and unique landscapes spanning both Italy and France.

  DAY 4 – Guided Hike to the Valley of Wonders and Fontanalba

  To further enrich the Bicknell Cycle Route experience, an additional day can be added to explore the extraordinary Valley of Wonders and the archaeological site of Fontanalba, one of the most fascinating locations in the Maritime Alps.
  Accompanied by a specialized guide from the Mercantour National Park, participants will explore the alpine landscapes that so inspired Clarence Bicknell and closely observe the famous prehistoric rock engravings dating back to the Bronze Age.
  The trail winds through alpine lakes, high-altitude pastures, weather-shaped rock formations, and spectacular mountain scenery dominated by Monte Bego, the sacred mountain of ancient alpine peoples.
  Throughout the excursion, the guide will explain the history, symbolism, and meaning of the more than 40,000 rock engravings found within the protected area, considered one of Europe’s most important open-air archaeological sites.
  An immersive experience combining nature, archaeology, and alpine culture, ideal for those wishing to gain a deeper understanding of the connection between Clarence Bicknell and these extraordinary borderland territories.

• WHAT'S INCLUDED
• USEFUL INFORMATION

  Logistics

  The tour starts and ends in Bordighera, making it easy to organize your trip with a single arrival and departure point. Extra pre- and post-tour nights are available on request.

  The nearest airports are:

  • Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE)
  • Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA)

  Private airport transfers are available on request.

  Accommodation

  We carefully select small hotels, guesthouses, and charming accommodations that reflect the authentic character of the region. Prices are generally based on shared double rooms. Single rooms are available on request with an additional supplement.

  Food & Local Flavors

  One of the highlights of our tours is discovering authentic Ligurian cuisine through local restaurants, alpine refuges, and traditional regional products. If you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or special requirements, please let us know in advance.

  Travel Light, Ride Better

  Our MTB and e-bike tours are designed to explore remote trails, historic military roads, and hidden corners of Liguria far from mass tourism. For this reason, luggage transport is not included.

  Traveling light is part of the experience: it makes the tour more sustainable, practical, and enjoyable. A lightweight setup means:

  • Less effort on climbs
  • Greater e-bike battery autonomy
  • More freedom and fun on the trails

  We recommend bringing only the essentials:

  • Lightweight technical clothing
  • Compact backpack or bikepacking setup
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Water and energy snacks
  • Essential evening clothing

  Essential Equipment

  • MTB helmet (mandatory)
  • Gloves and glasses
  • E-bike charger
  • Spare inner tube
  • Basic repair kit

  For more technical routes, knee and elbow protection is also recommended.

  Health & Safety

  Your safety and well-being are our priority throughout the tour. Please make sure you are in good physical condition and prepared for several consecutive days of riding on mixed terrain.

  We strongly recommend having your bike professionally checked before the tour, including:

  • Brakes and brake pads
  • Tires
  • Chain wear
  • Suspension setup
  • Battery condition

  Travel Insurance

  All our tours include:

  • Medical coverage
  • Luggage insurance
  • Trip cancellation insurance

  We still recommend having additional personal travel insurance for extra protection. A valid travel insurance policy is mandatory to participate in the tour.

  Currency & Payments

  The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but we recommend carrying a small amount of cash for alpine refuges, small cafés, and mountain villages where electronic payments may not always be available.

  Tips & Gratuities

  Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it is always appreciated as recognition for excellent service. If you particularly enjoyed your experience, tips for MTB guides, drivers, and local staff are always welcome.

  The Ligurian Life Spirit

  Our tours are not races. They are immersive journeys through mountains, coastal landscapes, medieval villages, and the authentic culture of the region.

  Ride light. Slow down. Experience the true essence of Liguria.

  Less weight. More freedom. More Liguria.

Ritrovo e partenza