Bologna Mountain Bike Area: mountain bike trails in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines
4 minutes
In the heart of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, between Bologna and Florence, the BOMBA – Bologna Montana Bike Area – project offers a network of mountain bike and outdoor tourism routes that showcase the area through well-maintained, signposted trails suitable for various experience levels. BOMBA promotes sustainable, responsible enjoyment of the mountains, giving outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to explore the Apennines in an active, safe and engaging way.
The route requires good physical fitness and familiarity with technical terrain: uneven sections, changes in gradient and paths through lush greenery make the Lake Trail a challenge for hikers and more experienced outdoor adventurers. The effort is amply rewarded by the beauty of the landscape and the feeling of traversing an area far from the beaten track.
This vast, scenic area is home to two main hubs – Alpe Trail Gravity and Loiano Trail Gravity – connected by a network of trails designed for all levels, from beginners to experts. Downhill, enduro, all-mountain and cross-country cycling can be enjoyed on technical trails, long, smooth descents, scenic loops and tracks through the Apennine forests.
The Bike Area is designed to provide comprehensive services: e-MTB hire, guided tours, cycling lessons for adults and children, charging points, picnic areas and hospitality facilities along the routes. Lift access and organised trails make the experience accessible and sustainable, bringing the area to life in all seasons.
Lake Trail: all-mountain trail in the Bologna Apennines
Lake Trail is the latest route created by BOMBA and represents a new All Mountain loop trail, destined to become a permanent fixture in the network of routes for adventurers and mountain enthusiasts. This trail is designed for those seeking to explore the Apennines in an active way, tackling a varied and engaging route that combines technical challenges, endurance and beautiful scenery.
The route is 28 kilometres long, with an elevation gain and descent of 960 metres, making it a moderately difficult route. It is suitable for riders with good physical fitness and some experience on natural terrain, while still offering the joy of discovery and direct contact with the environment.
The starting and finishing point is Lago di Castel dell'Alpi, an iconic place and the perfect backdrop for setting off on the journey.
From Lago di Castel dell'Alpi, the route climbs towards Madonna dei Fornelli, one of the landmarks of the Bolognese Apennines and a reference point for hikers and travellers. From here, the trail continues towards Pian di Balestra, gradually entering a more open, panoramic setting, where the landscape takes centre stage.
One of the most scenic parts of the Lake Trail is where it joins the Via degli Dei, a historic route connecting Bologna to Florence. For a long stretch, the trail follows this iconic road, offering an experience that combines physical activity and history, amidst landscapes that have welcomed travellers and pilgrims for centuries. The trail continues to the hamlet of Passeggere, where the slow pace of travel meets the thrill of outdoor adventure.
Gravity trails and mountain bike tours for adventurous cyclists
Alpe Trail Gravity and Loiano Trail Gravity are the two main hubs of the Bologna Montana Bike Area, offering complementary but equally engaging experiences. Alpe Trail Gravity is located in the highest and most scenic part of the area and is the go-to spot for those looking for long, technical descents surrounded by authentic mountain scenery. The trails wind through woods, ridges and alpine meadows, with downhill and enduro routes designed for experienced cyclists, alongside more progressive routes for those looking to improve their technique. Lift access and dedicated services make this area ideal for days of intense biking in a stunning natural setting. Loiano Trail Gravity offers a more dynamic and varied riding experience, with trails that alternate between flowing sections, technical trails and fast stretches through the Apennine hills, woods and clearings. This area is particularly popular for enduro and downhill cycling thanks to the quality and regular maintenance of the trails, as well as the fact that it is easily accessible from both Bologna and Florence.
Alongside gravity trails, the Bike Area offers a series of cycling tours designed to cater for mountain bikers of all levels and requirements. The All In tour offers the most complete experience, combining iconic trails, Apennine views and technical sections selected according to participants' skill levels, while the All Over tour traverses different areas of the landscape, connecting the main trail hubs and alternating adrenaline-filled descents with cycling sections. All Star is dedicated to the most experienced mountain bikers, looking for the most technical and spectacular trails, with plenty of adrenaline and challenging natural sections.
The Benji, Riccio, Venere and Zan tours complete the lineup, each with their own identity: Benji focuses on technical progression and fun, Riccio emphasises exploration and close contact with nature and Apennine villages, Venere offers an ideal balance between technical skills and scenery, while Zan stands out for its adventurous, dynamic character. In all cases, the mountain bike becomes a tool for discovering and forging a deep connection with the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines.
