Rosazza – Madonna della Neve Mountain Refuge Race

A vertical race in the heart of the upper Cervo Valley

The Rosazza – Madonna della Neve is a non-competitive mountain running event held every June, starting from Rosazza, the smallest municipality in the upper Cervo Valley, in the province of Biella (Piedmont). Now in its 35th edition, it is a historic fixture for mountain running enthusiasts in the Biellese area, offering a short but intense challenge that tests the legs over just a few kilometers.

The route: 3.3 km of pure ascent

The course measures just 3.3 kilometers, but packs in a significant 570 meters of positive elevation gain. It is an uphill-only race that unfolds entirely along mountain paths and mule tracks. Starting from the center of Rosazza at an altitude of 882 meters, the route climbs to the Madonna della Neve Refuge, located at 1,480 meters on the so-called Selle, in a panoramic position overlooking the entire upper Cervo Valley. It is a challenge suited for trail and vertical running lovers, yet open to all adults in a non-competitive format.

The Madonna della Neve Refuge: finish line and heart of the event

The refuge that gives the race its name is a landmark for hikers in the Biellese region. Accessible on foot from Rosazza via trails E30 and E32, or from Piedicavallo via trail E40, it is surrounded by historic alpine pastures and a small chapel dedicated to the Madonna della Neve. The race finish at the refuge turns the competition into a moment of conviviality: the registration fee includes a lunch at the refuge, reserved for participating athletes, which rounds off the morning of sport with a shared meal in the mountains.

A tradition of the Biellese mountains

The event is part of the rich calendar of activities that bring the Cervo Valley and the Biellese mountain huts to life during the summer season. On the same weekend, the refuge also hosts the Night of the Biellese Refuges, an evening dedicated to exploring the local geology, flora, and fauna. However, the Rosazza – Madonna della Neve remains the signature event: simple in its organization but authentic in spirit, celebrating the bond between the village of Rosazza, its mountains, and those who frequent them with passion.