Experience the Ciclovia Bicknell
A 4-Day MTB Journey through Time
If you are looking for a transborder MTB adventure following the footsteps of a pioneer explorer, our Ciclovia Bicknell tour is exactly what you need. This journey combines high-altitude military roads with the mysterious charm of prehistoric rock carvings and ancient Alpine villages.
Moreover, this route offers a unique blend of amazing riding and deep cultural immersion between Italy and France. if you want a journey that enriches both your body and soul, this is the cultural MTB experience you’ve been waiting for!
TRIP SUMMARY
Logistics
starting in
ending in
bordighera
bordighera
duration
4 days // 3 nights
ride specs
skill level
intermediate
trail level
s1 // s2
total specs
160 KM / +5.300 M / -6.800 M
DETAILS
details
4 // 7 riders
bike
EMTB
AIRPORT
NICE // GENOA
RIDE INFO // EXPLORE THE HISTORIC ALPINE TRAILS
The Ciclovia Bicknell is a world-class MTB holiday that brings together the wild beauty of the Maritime Alps and the ancient history of the Ligurian hinterland. We will lead you through a unique transborder destination on an epic journey. For instance, we will ride from the coastal shores of Bordighera to the 2,000-meter peaks of the Mercantour Park.
This multi-day adventure connects some of the most mysterious archaeological and natural locations. Moreover, you will pedal from the prehistoric rock carvings of the Valley of Wonders to the legendary medieval alleys of Triora. You can enjoy breathtaking alpine descents plunging through pine forests and beech groves directly back towards the Mediterranean sea.
JOURNEY DETAIILS
- 20KM
- 1200MT
- 600
day 1
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF WONDERS: FROM THE SEA TO THE HIGH VALLEYS
Bordighera ➔ Tende - Ciclovia Bicknell
Following in the footsteps of Clarence Bicknell from over a century ago, our journey begins in Bordighera, heading deep into the wild Roya Valley.
After a scenic ride on the legendary “Train des Merveilles,” we reach the medieval village of Tende. Here, a guided visit to the Museum of Wonders prepares us for the unique history of this land.
We then pedal towards Casterino—Bicknell’s summer retreat—climbing through lush pine forests before a thrilling descent into the Fontanalba Valley.
overnight// casterino
- 56KM
- 1600MT
- 2400
day 2
ANCIENT SIGNS AND LUNAR PEAKS: RIDING THE HISTORY
tende ➔ la brigue
After a hearty breakfast, we meet our certified guide to explore the prehistoric rock carvings.
Clarence Bicknell was the first to catalog these 40,000 ancient signs while searching for rare plants. Since the archaeological area is protected, the visit is strictly on foot.
We are redy now for a high-altitude ride toward Colle di Tenda. Moreover, the route takes us over 2,000 meters through a lunar landscape that remains accessible and flowy. Finally a scenic descent through mountain pastures brings us to the historic village of La Brigue.
overnight// la brigue
- 40KM
- 1400MT
- 1400MT
day 3
SACRED ART AND ANCIENT MYTHS: RIDING TO TRIORA
La Brigue ➔ Triora
Discover the “Sistine Chapel of the Alps” at Notre Dame des Fontaines, where breathtaking 15th-century frescoes reveal an eternal artistic treasure.
From here, we climb through the dense larch and spruce forests of Sanson, crossing the border back into Italy.
Our journey leads us to Triora, the famous medieval “Village of Witches.” Known for its mysterious history and herbal lore, it’s a place that Clarence Bicknell—a true lover of nature’s secrets—would have deeply admired.
OVERNIGHT // LA BRIGUE
- 44KM
- 1100MT
- 2400
day 4
FROM PEAKS TO THE PALMS: THE ENDLESS RIDE TO THE BLUE
TRIORA ➔ BORDIGHERA
On our final day, we ride from the mysterious heart of Triora back to the coast. To begin with, we conquer Monte Ceppo through a magnificent beech forest. From the top, the peak offers a 360-degree balcony over the Ligurian and Maritime Alps.
Afterward, we descend toward Bajardo, an ancient site sacred to Druids that fascinated Bicknell for its rare flora. As we approach the sea, the air fills with the scent of salt and the forest turns into Mediterranean scrub.
Ultimately, the sandy trails of Montenero lead us back to Bordighera, completing an enriching 160km journey.
BORDIGHERA COASTAL END
tu. tip
Clarence Bicknell : THE PIONEER’S VISION
Did you know that Clarence Bicknell was one of the very first to explore these valleys on two wheels back in the late 19th century?
In fact, he viewed the bicycle as the perfect tool to catalog rare plants, such as the legendary Fritillaria, without disturbing the peace of nature.He wasn’t just searching for rock carvings; he was seeking the absolute silence of the high alpine meadows.
Therefore, as you pedal toward Monte Ceppo, don’t just watch the trail. Take a moment to breathe in the history of a man who saw these mountains as both a timeless adventure and an open-air botanical garden.
the origins
VALLEY OF WONDERS
BICKNELL’S HERITAGE
ANCIENT ROCK CARVINGS IN A WILD ALPINE SETTING
A gradual climb through the woods, silently accompanied by the spirit of Bicknell
TENDA VILLAGE
A medieval gem hosting the unique museum of prehistoric rock carvings.
the heart
HIGH ALTITUDE RIDELINE
NOTRE DAME DES FONTAINES
Pedaling over 2,000 meters high along a millennial mountain path.
The "Sistine Chapel of the Alps" hidden within the silence of the woods.
TRIORA WITCHERY
Exploring the mysterious alleys of the most famous medieval village of witches.
the finale
ALPS & FOLKLORE
MEDITERRANEAN FLOW
Riding between the Maritime and Ligurian Alps history & folklore
Completely immersed in the scents and colors of the Mediterranean scrub.
BORDIGHERA RETURN
The perfect ending, where the mountains finally meet the sea.
“Our goal is to add true value to your cycling holiday, offering a service tailored to every detail within a relaxed and safe environment.”
You’ll be riding with a team of Certified Liguria Region Guides and qualified instructors from the Federazione Ciclistica Italiana. We are more than just guides; we are explorers with a deep-rooted passion for our land, ensuring that every tour meets the highest standards of technical skill and professional safety.
We don’t just lead the way; we share the secrets and the “soul” of the territory, building a bridge between you and our local heritage. Regardless of your skill level, we will lead you on an adventure through the most remote borders of the Riviera, always focusing on quality, respect for nature, and creating meaningful memories that go far beyond the ride
Having the right equipment is key to enjoying our wild trails. From mandatory safety gear to specific bike setups, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide to help you pack like a pro
Skill Level: (es. Intermediate / Advanced).
Is this tour for you? If you want to experience the full variety of the Riviera—from alpine-style climbs to sea-view descents—and you’re ready to enjoy a real mountain adventure assisted by our uplift, you’re in the right place.
Bike Type: Enduro bike (150mm+) or E-MTB.
Vibe: A true Enduro journey from the peaks to the sea.
The Riding: A blend of natural trails, rocky steps, and fast flow.
The Support: We use our shuttle to maximize gravity time, but be ready for some scenic pedaling to reach the best spots.
➜ We’ve got the logistics covered so you can focus on the ride.
Meeting Point: We meet at [Inserire Luogo, es: Finalborgo] at 09:00 AM.
Getting Here: The closest airports are Genoa (GOA) and Nice (NCE). We can arrange private transfers upon request.
Daily Schedule: Expect 6-7 hours out on the trails, including a relaxed lunch break in a local trattoria.
Tour Price: € per person
What’s Included: Professional MTB Guide, full-day private shuttle support, and mechanical assistance for minor trail repairs.
What’s Excluded: Travel insurance (mandatory), bike & gear rental, lunch, and after-ride drinks.
Booking: A 30% deposit is required to secure your spot.
LOGISTICS
GETTING HERE: The main hubs are Nice (NCE) and Genoa (GOA). Milan (MXP) is an option but requires a longer transfer. The tour starts in Finalborgo and ends in Nice/Ventimiglia, so plan your travel accordingly.
ACCOMMODATION: We hand-pick charming, local accommodations (like our favorites in Dolceacqua and Saorge). Prices are based on twin-share rooms. If you prefer a single room, please request it in advance (a supplement fee applies).
FOOD & DIETARY: We love local flavors! If you have allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can coordinate with the trattorias.
ON-TOUR CARE
HEALTH PRIORITIES: Your health and safety on tour is our top priority.
LOCAL ADVICE: You should always consult your own doctor or physician before travelling to new countries to seek their advice on health matters abroad.
VACCINATIONS & WATER: No vaccinations are required for visiting our tour areas. While tap water is generally safe, we recommend bottled or filtered water, which will be readily available throughout the trip.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS: Please let us know if you have any special food requirements, allergies, or pre-existing conditions your guides should know about.
TRAVEL INSURANCE (Mandatory): As a condition of booking, you must be insured against medical and personal accident risks. Your policy must explicitly cover mountain biking. We also strongly recommend coverage for trip cancellation and baggage (including your bike).
FINANCIAL TIPS
CURRENCY & CASH: The local currency is Euro (€). While cards are accepted in cities, cash is essential for remote mountain huts and small bars.
ATM MACHINES: You can find ATMs in Finale Ligure, Dolceacqua, and Nice. We suggest withdrawing cash before heading into the smaller villages.
TIPPING: In Italy, tipping is a sign of appreciation for great service. If you’ve had an epic time, a tip for your guides and local staff is always a nice gesture!
STILL HAVE A QUESTION?
Want to know if your bike is right or have questions about the logistics? Chat with us.
