Mongrando in Alto (The Cake Run)

A village festival running through the Biella hills

Some events are worth far more than the distance they cover, and Mongrando in Alto is one of them. Known to everyone as The Cake Run, it is a late-winter tradition that, every February, draws runners, families, and walkers to the hills of Mongrando, a town in the Province of Biella, Piedmont. This is not a competitive race, and performance isn't the goal: here, people run and walk to be together, to enjoy the views over the Biella plains, and to gather at the end around a refreshment station that has become legendary.

The route through the four upper hamlets

The course spans approximately 5.6 kilometers and winds through the town's upper hamlets: San Lorenzo, San Michele, Ruta, and Graziano. Both the start and finish are located at the San Lorenzo parish. The route alternates between climbs and descents, offering panoramic views of the hills and the plains—a loop that is challenging enough for runners, yet accessible to those who prefer a leisurely pace or Nordic walking.

Running, walking, and Nordic walking

The event is designed to welcome all levels. Departures take place in the early afternoon: first, the walking and Nordic walking groups set off, followed shortly after by the non-competitive runners. This inclusive formula is the secret to the event's success, bringing together licensed athletes and casual enthusiasts on the same course for a pleasant walk in good company.

The Cake Run: the refreshment that gives the event its name

The nickname is no coincidence. At the end of the route, participants are welcomed by a special refreshment: cakes and desserts prepared by the participants themselves and local families. It is the most anticipated moment, where fatigue melts away into conversation, tastings, and toasts. More than just a run, it is a community celebration where the generosity of the table counts just as much as the kilometers covered.

A run with heart

In recent years, Mongrando in Alto has taken on an even deeper meaning: the event is dedicated to the memory of Luisella and Fabrizio, two friends of La Vetta Running who passed away prematurely. Their image and a dedication accompany the event, transforming it into a collective gesture of affection and remembrance. It is a testament to how popular sport, in small towns like Mongrando, can unite passion, friendship, and local roots.

Organizers

The event is promoted by ASD La Vetta Running, a running club based in Mongrando, in collaboration with the San Lorenzo parish and with the patronage of the Municipality. It is a staple of the winter sports calendar in the Biella area.