Unmissable Cycling Experiences on the Western Ligurian Riviera

The Riviera Ligure di Ponente is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. From the sea to the mountains, passing through medieval villages and breathtaking panoramas, it offers routes that test both legs and heart. Whether you are a fan of road bike, an expert in MTB or a dreamer who wants to experience the magic of the Milan-San Remo, here are three detailed cycling experiences you can't miss.

TargetRoad Bike - Intermediate/Advanced Level

A perfect route for those who love uphill challenges. The Colle di Nava, with its 9 km of constant gradient and breathtaking views, is one of the most popular stages for road cycling fans.

Technical Data

• Total Distance: 35 km (round trip from Imperia)
• Positive height difference: 1.400 m
• Maximum altitude: 937 m
• Average slope: 6.9%
• Maximum slope: 11.1%
• Estimated Time3h 30min - 4h 30min

The Route

The departure is from Imperia Porto Maurizio, along the SS28, with an initial warm-up section through olive groves and inland villages. The real Colle di Nava begins at Pieve di Tecoa 9.1-kilometre climb with a constant gradient of 6.9%, characterised by sharp hairpin bends and challenging ramps. Here, every pedal stroke is a challenge.

What to see:

• Pieve di Teco: Medieval village with arcades and historic fountains, ideal for a short break.
• Arroscia Woods: Chestnut and beech trees that change colour with the seasons.
• Top of the Hill: 360° panorama between the sea and the Maritime Alps.

Where to Stop:

• Departure: Breakfast at Beach Restaurant Bar (7:00 a.m.).
• Refuelling: Bar in Pieve di Teco for water and snacks.
• Return: Lunch at Basil Restaurant in San Bartolomeo with pesto pasta.

Technical Advice:

• Gears: 34×28 or 34×30 to tackle the toughest ramps.
• Bring two flasks: one with mineral salts, one with water.
• Beware of the descent: technical and with blind bends.
• Ideal period: March-June e September-October (avoid summer because of the heat and winter because of the snow).

TargetMTB - Expert Level

If you are a mountain biker and love technical and scenic routes, this section of the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri is for you. A mix of adrenaline, unspoilt nature and spectacular views of the sea and the Alps.

Technical Data

• Distance40 km (Monte Faudo - Diano Marina section)
• Positive height difference: 1.240 m
• Maximum altitude1,149 m (Monte Faudo)
• Technical DifficultyS2-S3 (STS Scale)
• Estimated Time4h - 5h

The Route

Departure from San Lorenzo al Mare, with a car transfer to an altitude of 800 m (recommended) or a 1h 30min ascent on asphalt. From here, the adventure begins on the ridge of the Alta Via, a route that alternates between compact dirt tracks, roots, rocks and technical descents.

What to see:

• Mount Faudo: Panoramic peak with a view of the sea and the Alps.
• Crinale dell'Alta Via: A unique landscape of Mediterranean maquis and alpine forests.
• Leap into the Blue: A stretch of single track famous for its breathtaking views of the sea.
• Inland villages: How Diano Castello e Villa Faraldi, suspended in time.

Where to Stop:

• Departure: Breakfast at Emy Bar in San Lorenzo (7.30 a.m.).
• Refuelling: Take water (Camelbak rucksack) and snacks with you, there are no refreshment points here.
• Return: Beer and relaxation at the Diana Majestic Baths in Diano Marina.

Technical Advice:

• Bike: Full suspension 120-140mm and aggressive tyres.
• Protections: Full-face helmet, knee pads and long gloves.
• Navigation: GPX track obligatory, although signposts are present.
• Ideal period: April-June e September-October (avoid summer because of the heat).

TargetRoad Bike - Sport Level

Drive along the final stretch of the Milan-San Remo, the Classicissima di Primavera, is a dream for every cyclist. With its famous “Capi” and the legendary Poggio, this route allows you to ride in the footsteps of cycling champions.

Technical Data

• Distance: 65 km (from Imperia to Sanremo)
• Positive height difference: 850 m
• Iconic Ascents:
  • Cape Mele, Cape Cervo, Cape Berta.
  • Cipressa (5.6 km at 4.1%).
  • Poggio di Sanremo (3.7 km at 3.7%).
• Estimated Time3h - 3h 30min.

The Route

Departure from Imperia Porto Maurizio, along the SS1 Aurelia. The first 20 km are a succession of short, fast climbs, the famous “Capi”, offering spectacular views of the coast.

The real challenge begins at San Lorenzo al Mare, with the ascent of the Cypress5.6 km with ramps up to 8%. After a technical descent, you face the Poggio di SanremoA short but intense climb that requires both head and legs. The final descent brings you to Via Roma, the finish line of the Classicissima.

What to see:

• The Three ChiefsMele, Cervo, Berta, with postcard views.
• Deer: Medieval village among the most beautiful in Italy.
• Sanremo: City of flowers and cycling.

Where to Stop:

• Departure: Breakfast at the’Hotels Raffi (7:00 a.m.).
• Refuelling: Coffee a Deer (km 15).
• Arrival: Celebratory brunch at Single Fin of Andora.

Technical Advice:

• Ratios: 50/34 - 11/28 to tackle climbs with agility.
• Nutrition: Gels every 45 minutes, flasks with salts.
• Early start: The Aurelia fills up with traffic after 10am.
• Ideal period: March-May o September-October.

Variant Pro: If you are well trained, you can start in Pavia to tackle the entire Milan-San Remo: 289 km, 2,200 m of altitude difference and 8-10 hours in the saddle.

• Hotel Raffy (Diano Marina): Certified bike hotel with secure bike storage.
• Jasmin Charme Hotel (Diano Marina): Spa and pool for post-ride recovery.
• San Leonardo Resort (Imperia): Strategic location and services for cyclists.

Bellaitalia.bike (Imperia): Bike rental (road, MTB, gravel, e-bike) and post-ride services, such as bike wash and spa.

With its spectacular routes and variety of experiences on offer, the Riviera Ligure di Ponente is a perfect destination for every cyclist. Whether you want to challenge the climbs, explore technical trails or experience the myth of Milan-San Remo, you will find your next two-wheeled adventure here. Pedal and discover the magic of Liguria!