Ciclovia Bicknell

The Bicknell Cycle Route is far more than an MTB itinerary: it is an authentic journey through the Mediterranean, the Maritime Alps, historic villages, and borderlands suspended between Italy and France. A truly unique bikepacking experience designed for riders who want to explore the mountains in a slow, immersive, and adventurous way while crossing some of the most spectacular landscapes of Western Liguria and the nearby French Riviera.

Inspired by the explorations of Clarence Bicknell, the English botanist who chose Bordighera as his home in the late 19th century, the cycle route follows the landscapes studied and described by this extraordinary explorer: wild mountains, ancient military roads, prehistoric rock engravings, alpine valleys, and medieval villages that have remained almost unchanged over time.

The adventure begins on the shores of the Riviera dei Fiori and, thanks to the scenic railway transfer along the historic Ventimiglia – Breil-sur-Roya – Tende line, quickly leads riders from Mediterranean landscapes to the high altitudes of the Maritime Alps. The famous Train des Merveilles takes riders deep into the Roya Valley through spectacular viaducts, tunnels, and breathtaking mountain scenery along the border region.

From here, the route enters the wildest and most authentic dimension of the itinerary. Gravel tracks and ancient military roads climb towards the area of Casterino and the spectacular Valley of Wonders, one of the most fascinating places in the Southern Alps, famous for its prehistoric rock engravings and alpine landscapes dominated by Monte Bego.

The journey continues through mountain villages and borderland territories rich in alpine culture and identity, such as La Brigue, Triora, Molini di Triora, and Bajardo. The route alternates long panoramic traverses, alpine single tracks, technical mule trails, and flowing descents through larch and chestnut forests. Every stage offers contact with a hidden side of Liguria far from traditional tourist routes: mountain refuges, ancient olive mills, pastoral traditions, and wide-open panoramas stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the peaks of the Ligurian Alps on clear days.

The final section of the itinerary crosses the hills above Sanremo and the trail network of Monte Nero before returning to the sea in Bordighera. After days spent among mountains, gravel roads, and timeless villages, the return to the Riviera offers a unique feeling: the sensation of having crossed completely different worlds within a single journey.

The Bicknell Cycle Route is an ideal adventure for MTB and e-bike riders. It requires a good level of physical fitness and solid riding skills, especially on alpine and gravel sections. To fully enjoy the experience, we recommend dividing the route into multiple stages and relying on experienced local MTB guides.