Cycling itinerary

Discovering the Elm Valley

An intense journey into the heart of the Upper Brembana Valley, where high-altitude views and Alpine traditions come together in an unforgettable experience

Loop route
Start:
Via Roma Olmo al Brembo - Viale Roma, Olmo Al Brembo, Olmo al Brembo BG, Italy
By bike Excellent ability
40.0 km
1300 m
550 m

A challenging hike, but certainly among the most rewarding in the Brembana Valley: the route in the green Olmo Valley stretches for about 40 km, with an average time of 4 hours. The difficulty is classified as high, due to the substantial elevation gain and the numerous dirt sections that require technique, stamina and good mastery of the vehicle.

The loop route begins and ends in Olmo al Brembo, developing between 550 and 1400 meters in altitude. The total elevation gain of 1300 meters ensures a continuous alternation of environments, challenging climbs and steep descents that test even the most experienced bikers.

In addition to traversing the unspoiled nature of the valley, the route allows you to discover some of the most characteristic villages of the Upper Brembana Valley: in fact, you pedal through the houses and alleys of Cassiglio, Cusio, Santa Brigida and Averara, each with its own heritage of history, traditions and Alpine atmosphere.

During or after the hike, Valtorta, a small village nestled among the mountains, whose name recalls the winding conformation of the area, is definitely worth a visit. In summer it is perfect for hiking and walking in its hamlets, while in winter it offers skiing in the Valtorta-Piani di Bobbio ski area. It is also home to the Ecomuseum of the Upper Brembana Valley, which tells the story of the area's culture and traditional crafts with authenticity.

A complete and fascinating itinerary, combining sport, nature and the discovery of the historic villages of the Bergamo mountains. A demanding challenge, but capable of returning unforgettable emotions.

Cassiglio

Palazzo Milesi and Danza Macabra
Architecture, Historical attraction, Artwork

Noble 17th-century building richly decorated. Prominent among the late 18th-century frescoes of the eastern high is a ”Dance Macabre” whose most significant subjects concern the...
Saint Bridget
The new Baschenis Museum in Santa Brigida opens its doors as an exhibition center dedicated to the famous dynasty of fresco painters originally from the Averara Valley...
Valtorta
The Valtorta Ecomuseum is based in the historic House of the Magistrate's Court, a 15th-century building that still retains rooms and atmosphere of the past. The museum...
Valtorta

Hammer and Mill
Memory and identity

The Bolgià Nature Oasis, which is reached by an ancient humpback bridge, receives water from the Grobbia Valley that is properly channeled into...
Valtorta
Valtorta Parish Church is dedicated to St. Mary of the Assumption and was rebuilt between 1898 and 1904 by architect Antonio Piccinelli....
Valtorta
A comfortable and welcoming atmosphere will pamper you during your stay at the Pizzo Tre Signori Hotel and Restaurant, with hospitality always tailored to your...
Cusio

Old Mill of Cusio
Memory and identity

The Old Cusio Mill dates back to the mid-17th century, or rather, the earliest document mentioning the structure dates back to that date....
Cusio
The ancient parish church of Cusio, until 1785 diocese of Milan, dedicated to St. Margaret of Antioch, became autonomous from the mother church of St. Brigid...
Saint Bridget
The new parish church, designed by engineer Luigi Angelini in an eclectic style, was built between 1920 and 1925 thanks to contributions from the population. The...
Saint Bridget
The ancient Church of the Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows is an original chapel dating back to the 10th century and was possibly built on the remains of an earlier sacred building...
Averara

Via Porticata di Averara
Historical attraction

The Via porticata of Averara constitutes a section of the ancient Via Mercatorum, the most important of the ancient roads of the Brembana Valley as it allowed the...
Averara
The baptismal church of San Giacomo in Averara has very ancient origins. In the Privileges granted by Venice in 1443, permission already appears for...
Recommended period
JanFebTueAprmagdownJulneedlesetOctNovDec
Water along the route YES
Refreshment stops along the route YES
Ospitalità  lungo il percorso YES
Accessibilità  con sedia a rotelle NO
Parking at the starting point YES
Toll road at departure NO
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