Mola Nen Trail

The Mola Nen Trail in Bernezzo

The Mola Nen Trail is one of the most cherished trail running races in the province of Cuneo, Piedmont. Held every year in late May in the municipality of Bernezzo—a village of just over four thousand inhabitants nestled at the gateway to Valle Grana—it attracts runners from across the region and beyond. The name, in the Piedmontese dialect, means "don't give up": a motto that perfectly captures the spirit of a demanding race accessible to all mountain lovers.

The Course

The route follows a loop of approximately 15 kilometers with 1000 meters of elevation gain, entirely on the hills and dirt roads surrounding Bernezzo. The start and finish are located in Piazza Martiri della Libertà, in the town center. The course alternates between challenging climbs, technical stretches through chestnut forests, and smoother passages, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Cuneo mountains and the valley entrance. Two refreshment stations are set up along the route—one with food and drinks and one with drinks only—with a maximum time limit of approximately three hours to complete the course.

A Race for Everyone

The Mola Nen Trail is organized by A.S.D. Podistica Valle Grana, a local sports association, and is included in the official FIDAL Piedmont calendar as a regional-level trail race. Over the years, it has also become part of the provincial mountain running championship calendar. Available race bibs are limited, reflecting an event that prioritizes the quality of the experience over sheer numbers: those who run the paths of Valle Grana will find a friendly atmosphere and typical Piedmontese hospitality.

Bernezzo and Valle Grana

Bernezzo is strategically located at the entrance to Valle Grana, one of the Occitan valleys of the Cuneo area, known for its chestnut production and the nature trails that climb toward Monte San Giorgio. The village preserves the parish church of Santi Pietro e Paolo and the civic tower, serving as an ideal gateway to discover an authentic mountain territory. Participating in the Mola Nen Trail is a great opportunity to experience a lesser-known corner of Piedmont, blending sporting tradition, nature, and local culture.