Monte Bersaio

At 2,400 meters above sea level, Monte Bersaio towers impressively over the Valle Stura and offers epic views as well as a varied and challenging trail descent for experienced mountain bikers.

Description

The circular tour starts in the small village of Sambuco, picturesquely situated below Monte Bersaio. At the beginning, the trail leads through the village before a narrow single trail climbs steadily uphill. This soon joins a gravel road that leads to the Gardetta plateau - that impressive connection between the Valle Stura and the Valle Maira.

At around 1850 m above sea level, the route branches off to the right and follows a long cross-country trail, partly on an old cart track that gently hugs the slopes. The uphill stretch is long, but the scenery is richly rewarded - the view widens as the alpine scenery becomes increasingly dramatic.

Finally, you reach Monte Bersaio - the highest point of the tour - and enjoy a fantastic view of Sambuco and the surrounding mountains with their bizarre rock formations.

Then the descent begins: a mix of S2 and S3 passages leads down towards Jas Mure - a place that has also served as a stage finish for the legendary Stone King Rally. Typical for the region, the trail runs above the tree line on loose, gravelly ground and requires precise handling.

Further down, you follow the course of the valley and the stream downhill in tight hairpin bends. A staggered turn is not absolutely necessary, but it significantly improves the flow of the ride. In this way, you collect Elevation loss after Elevation loss until you finally roll back into Sambuco and the loop closes.

Note: The tour is also suitable for a light eMTB and can be ridden for the most part. However, you should expect to have to push or carry your bike in some sections.

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