The Gran Paradiso Bike is a mountain bike race that takes place in the beautiful valleys of the Gran Paradiso National Park. At the foot of this 'giant of the Alps', you’ll explore the territory of Italy's oldest national park, established in 1922 to prevent the extinction of the ibex, the park's symbol.

In this Collection I have divided the race route into two circular Tours starting from Cogne. Covering a total of 50 kilometres (30 mi), you’ll discover a prodigious natural environment made up of enchanting valleys, rugged rock faces and broadleaf forests, and a fauna that boasts countless ibexes, chamois, marmots and other species in the wild.

The first part of the Gran Paradiso Bike is relatively easy, while the second is more technical and challenging. I recommend tackling the route with a hardtail or full suspension mountain bike, and perhaps consider using an e-bike if you don’t want to rely solely on your own strength to tackle almost 1,500 metres (4,900 ft) of ascent.

Take water, energy bars and technical clothing with you, and don't forget a windproof and rainproof jacket, as the itinerary runs entirely at an altitude of between 1,400 and 2,100 metres (4,500 and 6,800 ft). This also means the Gran Paradiso Bike is not suitable for riding over the winter months due to the presence of snow.

Cogne is a rather busy town, where you’ll have no problem finding accommodation. To reach the start by car from Aosta, exit at the Aosta Ovest/Saint-Pierre motorway junction and drive up the valley of the Grand Eyvia along Regional Road 47. If you travel by public transport, you can take a train to Aosta railway station, and from there one of the buses to Cogne.

You can find more information about the race and the route on the official competition website: granparadisobike.it/homesezione.asp?id=6&l=1

Have fun!