FATMAP by Strava

Giro di Cancano

The best way to experience the beautiful Cancano Lakes.

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance
19 km
Ascent
273 m
Descent
273 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.9 km
High Point
2 km
Gradient
Giro di Cancano Map

The tour of the Cancano lakes is one of the most popular trails in the area and one for all mountain bikers. It's around a 20km circular route and it's flat almost the entire way around. There is also the option of making the trail shorter by cutting across the dam which divides the two artificial lakes of Cancano and San Giacomo.

Description

You’ll probably want to spend as much time up at the lakes as possible, though, because they are absolutely sublime. The bright blue waters of the lakes combined with the giant circle of mountains protruding directly out of them creates a fantastically beautiful scene. The area is also very peaceful as traffic is banned from most of the lakeside and the only people around are hikers and mountain bikers.

Just before you reach the Cancano plateau stands the ancient military fortifications, the Fraele Towers, which can be visited for free. You may also want to stop around the lakes at one of the few cafes, all equipped with deckchairs to lounge a couple of hours away in the sun.

To get to the start of the trail, from Bormio there is a bus running twice a day and it takes 1 hour. The cost is around 5 euros, plus another 5 for your mountain bike which you need to book a spot for in advance.

Difficulty

Easy

Mostly smooth and non-technical singletrack with unavoidable obstacles 2in/5cm tall or less. Avoidable obstacles may be present. Ideal for beginner riders.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Features

  • Picturesque
  • Road sections

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area