Looking for breathtaking mountain views without the tourist crowds? Look no further than Lagorai! This authentic and rugged mountain range offers a taste of freedom, even if it throws some rocky challenges your way.
Our Lagorai MTB family adventure, designed for riders with trailers (though a single-wheeled, suspension model is highly recommended!), explores the Valsugana side of Lagorai with stunning routes and single tracks immersed in wild beauty.
Starting at Ristorante alle Pozze (Roncegno Terme)
This popular starting point for hikes and MTB trips offers ample parking, making it ideal for mixed groups of hikers and bikers who can reunite later.
Behind the parking lot, you might even encounter some friendly horses and donkeys – a delight for little ones! The ride begins with a descent until the first crossroads leading to the climb towards Vetriolo.
The Ascent to Vetriolo: A Paraglider’s Paradise
The climb to Vetriolo is a gentle one on a paved road, pleasantly shaded and perfect for escaping the summer heat. Since most traffic approaches Vetriolo from the Levico side, this route remains relatively quiet.
After about an hour, you’ll reach Vetriolo, where you can stop and witness the spectacle of numerous paragliders taking flight. While there’s a restaurant here, it can be quite expensive. We recommend waiting for a delicious and more affordable meal at Malga Masi later on.
La Lupa del Lagorai
The climb from Vetriolo to La Lupa del Lagorai might be the only section where you encounter other tourists, but crowds are still unlikely. The climb features some steep sections, but it’s entirely rideable and well worth the effort.
The devastating Vaia Hurricane of 2018 ripped through the Lagorai forests, uprooting countless trees. But from this destruction came creation. The fallen wood was used to build La Lupa del Lagorai, a stunning architectural marvel that stands as a testament to nature’s power. You’ll also find a similar structure, the Vaia Dragon, in Lavarone, which was recently rebuilt after a fire.
Pass under the belly of the wolf, admiring the vast landscape and feeling a sense of protection in its embrace. Imagine the resilience its howl represents as you continue on the track with a moderate climb followed by a gentle descent towards Malga Masi.
Malga Masi
This hidden gem lies far from the main hiking and biking routes. With its new staff, Malga Masi is a paradise for children. The friendly staff, kid-friendly menu, and simple yet delicious food are just some of the highlights. But the true magic lies in meeting the diverse farm animals – horses, ponies, pigs, geese, ducks, llamas, chickens… the list goes on! Both you and your kids will be thoroughly entertained.
La Bassa
Enjoy a refreshing break at Malga Masi, then get ready to stretch your legs for the short but challenging climb to Bassa Peak. You might encounter a herd of goats along the way. At the top (La Bassa), breathtaking views of both the Valle dei Mocheni and the Levico area unfold before you!
From here, pure fun awaits on a single-track descent (caution advised with a trailer). You’ll even have to cross a small river before reaching the beautiful Lago delle Prese.
Lago delle Prese and the Return Route
This crystal-clear mountain lake, despite its beauty, remains relatively unknown and uncrowded. We didn’t linger here long, but it definitely sparked an idea for a future bikepacking trip with a tent! Just below the lake lies the charming village of Paicovel with its characteristic mountain cabins. After some final single-track excitement, you’ll arrive back at the starting point.
This Lagorai MTB family adventure is packed with adrenaline, authenticity, laughter, and breathtaking scenery. Sure, our local knowledge might add a touch of charm, but trust us – this Lagorai adventure is epic for anyone seeking a genuine and thrilling ride!
