Bognanco Hike & Bike
Cycling and hiking in Val Bognanco: nature, culture, and gastronomy
About Hike & Bike
A day in the saddle and on foot in Val Bognanco
Bognanco Hike & Bike is the perfect opportunity to explore Val Bognanco—one of the most secluded and enchanting valleys in the Ossola region—by bike or on foot. Located in the municipality of Bognanco, in the Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (Piedmont), the event is part of the annual calendar of FIAB VCO (the local branch of the Italian Environment and Bicycle Federation) and is designed for both mountain biking enthusiasts and mountain hikers.
Where it takes place
The heart of the event is the village of San Lorenzo, the administrative and social hub of the valley, which serves as the starting point for all excursions. Val Bognanco rises from an altitude of about 980 meters toward the peaks of the Lepontine Alps, featuring the famous Monscera basin at 2,000 meters, sun-drenched pastures, and surrounding beech forests. The valley is also renowned for its thermal baths and the mineral waters of Bognanco Fonti, a historic spa destination in northern Piedmont.
Between adrenaline and the silence of the woods
The program combines technical mountain bike trails for experienced riders with hiking itineraries suitable for everyone. Cyclists can tackle tracks climbing toward Alpe Manzano or follow the historic "Pope's Way" up to Monscera, while those who prefer walking can discover the valley's lesser-known hamlets or follow easy loop trails through nature and culture. GPS tracks for the routes are also available on apps like Komoot, allowing you to explore the itineraries independently.
Nature, culture, and gastronomy
Beyond the sport, Bognanco Hike & Bike is a chance to discover the valley's true identity: its alpine pastures, Ossola traditions, and mountain cuisine. A refreshment point in San Lorenzo offers a menu featuring local products, and an e-bike rental service with a charging station is available for those who don't have their own bike. It is a slow, sustainable way to experience one of the most authentic corners of the alpine Piedmont.
Hike & Bike — edition 2026
Bognanco Hike & Bike 2026
The date for the 2026 edition was set for Sunday, May 10, 2026, and was included in the annual calendar of FIAB VCO, presented in the spring of 2026. The event is described as a bike ride dedicated to Val Bognanco, reserved for mountain bikers, following the trails of the valley in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola.
Details regarding the routes, meeting times, and registration procedures were communicated by the organizers on the official FIAB VCO and Pro Loco Bognanco channels in the weeks leading up to the event.
Programme Hike & Bike 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition (tracks, departure and meeting times) was published by FIAB VCO closer to the date. The event on May 10, 2026, was a mountain bike ride dedicated to Val Bognanco, reserved for off-road cycling enthusiasts.
The usual structure of the event includes a meeting point in the village of San Lorenzo, trails through the valley (including climbs toward Alpe Manzano and the Monscera basin), and a refreshment point with local products.
Highlights Hike & Bike 2026
- Mountain bike ride in Val Bognanco
- Trails and alpine pastures of the Ossola Lepontine Alps
- Event included in the 2026 FIAB VCO calendar
Prices Hike & Bike 2026
Practical information — Hike & Bike
How to get there
Bognanco is easily reached from Domodossola (about 10 km away), a major railway hub on the Simplon and Gotthard lines, by following the provincial road that climbs up Val Bognanco to the village of San Lorenzo. By car, take the Villadossola exit on the A26 motorway.
Meeting point and bookings
All activities start from the village of San Lorenzo. Participation in the excursions requires advance booking. Information and registration are available through the Pro Loco Bognanco and FIAB VCO.
Tips
Bring appropriate mountain gear, a helmet, and a well-maintained bicycle for the MTB routes. In case of bad weather, the event may be cancelled: always check for confirmation on official channels.
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Where does it take place — Hike & Bike
Val Bognanco - San Lorenzo
Frazione San Lorenzo, 28842 Bognanco